WHAT TO DO IN… NEW YORK
There’s no place like New York. Vibrant, cinematic and progressive, the Big Apple is catnip to anyone with dreams of making the bigtime. Its food, music, style and theatre are unparalleled – NY has an energy that is irrefutably its own. A place where individuality, multiculturalism and weirdness are actively encouraged and celebrated, New York is constantly refreshed through its endlessly diverse stream of people who want to call this fizzing city home. Fashion editor Naomi Elizée is among them, having lived in NY for five years. Here, she reveals her pick of the best shops, restaurants, bars and cultural spots, from Haitian cafes and off-the-beaten track homeware stores to the ultimate date-night dining spot.
New York is home because…
“…this city is filled with endless opportunities; you truly can chase your wildest dreams here without judgement. I love the fact that I can step out of my apartment and almost always can find something to do without any planning.”
NY style looks like…
“My favorite thing about New York City style is that you truly can never anticipate what anyone will be wearing. It’s eclectic, fun, classic, simple, bold, bright, edgy, surprising and effortless all at once.”
My ultimate NY style icon is…
“Hands down, Solange. Her use of color and shapes continues to inspire me to be more playful with my outfits. She knows the balance between taking fashion seriously and having fun with it.”
My weekend wardrobe constitutes…
“It’s similar to my weekday wardrobe, but I may switch out a pair of work heels for a fun sneaker. I am currently lusting after the Wales Bonner x Adidas Sambas! I’m typically still in a colorful outfit so brands like Marni and Christopher John Rogers are always in rotation.”
The best coffee shop is…
“Devoción Coffee’s large interior is aesthetically pleasing - its use of wood, open brick, greenery and modern sensibilities create a real oasis for coffee addicts, including myself.”
My favorite non-fashion stores are…
“I spend a lot of my spare time shopping at vintage furniture and homeware stores. The stores I frequent are Renew Finds for prints, Home Union for home inspiration, Lichen to find the next best thing and Of the Cloth for one-of-a-kind pieces.”
“This one is tough, but Bed-Stuy takes the number one spot. There is so much culture and liveliness to Bed-Stuy that you just can’t find anywhere else. Flatbush will always have a place in my heart because of the lively Haitian community that helps me feel close to culture whenever I feel homesick.”
“In a city known for skyscrapers, I love the unique design of the Flatiron Building. Its triangular design means it looks good from every angle.”
“The 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is a stunning sanctuary within the city. It’s airy and art-filled with impeccable customer service and beautiful views of the city.“
