nyc. gems. // part. one.

While I'm not a New York native or current NYC resident (maybeeee, someday), I DO visit the city frequently enough that I've accumulated quite the list of *favorite* neighborhood spots (from Nolita to Williamsburg to the UES) that I'd recommend in a heartbeat. I have my favorite sorbet spot, my favorite hotel rooftop, my favorite place to stockpile sheet masks, my favorite slice of pizza, etc. etc. etc. I honestly struggled with how to make this series a reality — I debated doing individual trip recaps vs. in-depth profiles of shops and businesses. Ultimately, I decided that bite-size roundups would work best.

A charming pencil shop, a green lifestyle coffee shop with succulent cupcakes (s'cute!), and a lush rooftop/restaurant located in the heart of the Meatpacking District.

Urban Backyard

 

This must be the place.
 
...my initial thought upon stepping foot into Urban Backyard. Sure, I had seen snapshots on IG of this magical coffee shop located in Nolita, but photos simply don't do it justice. I arrived bright and early on a Monday morning (8 a.m. sharp!) to meet a friend, so we pretty much had first dibs on seating. Take note: The small "cozy" space adds to the zen atmosphere. But perhaps, it's the houseplants and adorable embroidery hoops lining the walls that entice you to linger a wee bit longer. As I like to say: "come for the cute aesthetic, and then stay for the succulent cupcakes." I sampled a few macarons (lemon + passion fruit) before moving onto a flourless chocolate cupcake (which was divine). The cushioned wooden futon couch accompanied by a goldenrod pillow beckoned for company, as did the open window. Last, but not least, it's the outdoor seating area in front — a dreamy tiled oasis, complete with gorgeous blooms and "cold water for fur babies" — that make passersby pause for a pic.
 
Bonus points for Urban Backyard's sustainable initiative. They have biodegradable hay straws, y'all. According to Yelp, they also offer a discount to customers who bring their own cup.

 

 

Urban Backyard
180 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012
@urbanbackyardnyc

CW Pencil Enterprise

 

Pencil shops are rare. Pencil shops with *secret* sticker rooms are even more of a rarity. While I've known about CW Pencil Enterprise for what feels like an eternity, it wasn't until a dreamy (and long overdue) December 2017 visit to their Orchard St. shop that I became a true pencil devotee. ✏️ 

A little backstory. CWPE was founded by Caroline Weaver, a lifelong pencil aficionado, in November 2014. A brick-and-mortar shop opened shortly thereafter in March 2015. Whenever I'm in the city, I make it a point to pop in, even if it's just to pick up a few Tombow colored pencils or a sheet of stickers. The store itself is an aesthete's dream. Heaps of natural light and a p-e-r-f-e-c-t-l-y curated wall of pencils (over 200 varieties to be exact) make it a Lower East Side gem. 

Beyond everyone's trusty yellow No. 2 pencil, you'll find a slew of specialty and novelty pencils (from a baseball scoring set to toothpick-sized heart pencils) — plus notebooks, sharpeners, erasers, and other fun knick-knacks aimed to delight the creative enthusiast in all of us. Did I mention that there's a pencil sample station, complete with a notebook for doodles and notes? Yessss. Cuteness ensues.

Oh and certainly not least... ! My favorite part of the Orchard St. shop just may be the CW Sticker Emporium. With so many kawaii Japanese and world-class stickers to choose from, you'll 100 percent feel like a kid in a candy store. I dare you to leave empty-handed.      

CW Pencil Enterprise

15 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

@cwpencilenterprise

@cwstickers

RH Rooftop Restaurant by Restoration Hardware

 

Scattered all across the city, you'll find a plethora of hip hotel rooftop bars — many of which are charming — but it's not every day you discover a lavish + lush rooftop garden of this size. Enter the RH (aka, Restoration Hardware) Rooftop Restaurant, located in the historic Meatpacking District, a mere stone's throw away from The High Line and the Whitney. The perfect spot for people watching, grabbing a bite to eat (come early, as they don't take reservations!!!) or sipping rosé. I know what you're thinking… "but isn't that a luxury home-furnishings store?" My thoughts exactly! Part swanky showroom, part gallery, part restaurant — no detail goes unnoticed as you take the excursion from the first floor to the 🔝. 

While I can't comment on the food — we were just checking out the space for the first time — the atmosphere is quite lovely. It's fancy enough for after-hours, but relaxed enough if you're just there to soak in the views and hang out with friends. The scenery, no joke, is "inspired by the great classical gardens of Europe." And they don't rush you out, so you can truly enjoy your experience. 

On level three, you'll find a Barista Bar (espresso + wine). Not at all an inconvenience for me (I don't drink), but just FYI, there's no bar service on the rooftop wine terrace, so you'll have to purchase your drink here and then take it upstairs. 🤷🏻‍♀️ 

RH Rooftop Restaurant
9 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014

What are your favorite NYC spots? Have you visited any of these gems?

xo,
A

1

sézane. / bonjour. new. york.

What if I told you that your lifelong dream of becoming a beret-wearing Parisian girl is finally about to be realized? Well, almost, anyway. Meet Sézane: the first French fashion brand to function entirely online. What started out as an e-commerce store (formerly known as Les Composantes) for repurposed vintage threads quickly turned into a business plan for founder Morgane Sézalory. In 2013, Sézane was born. The ceaselessly chic brand releases four capsule collections per year — with femme blouses, silk dresses and tailored outerwear taking center stage. I imagine the quintessential Sézane girl being a cross between UK blogger Olivia Grace (isn't her polished tomboy style to die for?) and that of Parisian prepster, Daphne Moreau.

"A reflection of the times, of elegance, of real life."

During my most recent trip to NYC, I had the pleasure of visiting L'Appartement New York (Sézane's first stateside location, natch) and can attest that it's just as elegant/charming/cozy as you'd imagine. Between the complimentary coffee + treats from Maman and the curated bookshelves (displaying the most dreamy selection of heeled pumps and satchels), this Parisian boutique located in the heart of Nolita doesn't fail to bring a hint of je ne sais quoi to the city that never sleeps. Take it from me — the storefront especially dazzles at night. I was fortunate enough to stop in during the holidays and it was enchanting. 

 

I've rounded up a few of my favorite Sézane picks from the winter collection — shop 'em below!

1. Sézane Harlow Skirt // Um, yes, please. My wardrobe needs a soft leather mini that looks just as fabulous with mariner stripes as an oversized knit sweater.

2. Sézane Gaston Jumper // My femme side is screaming out for this fringy cream-colored lace jumper that practically calls for a trip to the City of Light. That and naturally tousled waves… I digress.

3. Sézane Oscar Striped Jersey // True story: I initially discovered Sézane through one of their highly coveted collaborations with Madewell. A "toi avec moi" striped pocket tee from said collab continues to be one of my most beloved Breton shirt purchases to date. It would only seem fitting if I were to snatch up this sweet bow-back top next. The only question: navy or red? 

4. Sézane Bow Coat // "BRB, off to grab croissants at the corner bakery." 'Nuff said. 

5. Sézane Elise Dress // French girl insouciance at your fingertips, right this way. Style this garden party-ready embroidered dress with noir tights and a teddy bear topper for all your after-hours affairs.

6. Sézane Demain T-Shirt // How about a whimsical t-shirt that puts a smile on your face and inadvertently gives back in the process? With proceeds from the purchase of each tee being donated to children's education, Sézane's charity initiative of choice, you can't lose.

7. Sézane Joe Coat // Every girl needs a sophisticated coat that elevates even the most normcore of looks (jeans, a tee and perfectly worn-in Chucks). Although, trust that this double-breasted number would look right at home with a corduroy mini and menswear-inspired brogues — should you take that route. 

8. Sézane Low Arthur Boots // Err'body's cult favorite Chelsea boot reimagined in chic leopard. Any takers?

Visiting NYC? Be sure to stop by L’Appartement New York:

L’Appartement New York
254 Elizabeth St
New York, NY 10012

Are you loving Sézane as much as me? Comment below with your favorite pieces from the collection!

xo,
A

0

modern. map. art. // new. york. city.

If you know me at all, then you’re well aware of my love affair with New York City. In fact, I just returned from my annual summer trip (and may or may not be plotting a return visit as we speak…), so the timing of this post couldn’t be more fitting. Today, I want to put Modern Map Art on your radar — a company that reimagines city street maps into contemporary wall prints, iPhone cases, you name it.
 
One of Modern Map Art’s city prints could be the newest addition to your gallery wall or it could be the *perfect* gift for a BFF who’s currently living out her post-graduate dreams in a new city. Study abroad in Barcelona, Spain or Paris, France? There’s a map for that! Don’t worry, I’ve already checked and there’s even a print for Vienna, Austria. <3     

The folks over at Modern Map Art generously sent over one of their 8x10 NYC map prints ($29.99), and I honestly couldn’t be more pleased with the presentation of the museum-quality matte poster. The design of the map itself is unique in that the print showcases highways, waterways, major landmarks and mass transit system lines (you really have to get out the magnifying glass to scope out all the minuscule details!). As far as customization options go, you have your pick of size (from 8x10 to 24x36) and color (I prefer the black/white, but you could go crazy with navy/orange if that’s more your aesthetic). Don’t see your city represented? Modern Map Art will work with you on a custom order to make your vision a reality.

    
What to expect? Speedy shipping and safe delivery (your print will be placed in a tube for crease-free travels). Not only does my NYC print appear exactly as photographed online, but it has the feel of a commissioned print. AKA, it’s not something you’re going to stumble across at just any old street fair. While I still need to find a frame and matting for it, I imagine that my print will look super sleek in a minimalist black lacquer gallery frame. Speaking of which, the map print of your choice would be ideal for a curated gallery wall (you wouldn’t believe how many NYC-themed prints I’ve accumulated over the years!), an office or even a college dorm. 

You can find Modern Map Art on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter! 

Which city would you purchase a map print for, and more importantly, where would you hang it? Comment below!

xo,
A

Disclaimer: While this is not a sponsored post, Modern Map Art was kind enough to send me a New York City street map poster for review. Please note that all opinions expressed in this blog post are my own.

3

NYC. #ootds.

As per annual tradition, I recently had the pleasure of spending a few days in my favorite city this past December. A recap of my trip will be coming to the blog soon, but in the meantime, I'm sharing the #OOTDs I wore. Just as a disclaimer: It was cold (like 20 degrees in the daytime cold), and so I was pretty limited in sartorial options. It was quite the wakeup call after last year's unseasonably warm temps. Bundled in layers with a cuppa steaming cider in hand, I think I actually fared pretty well. Regardless of the weather, anytime in NYC is a good time, amirite? Disclaimer #2: Don't be fooled, I only temporarily ditched my mustard coat for the third outfit snapshot.

Day 1: Since day one consisted of a six-hour-or-so train ride, I opted for a comfortable American Apparel floral dress, black tights, marled socks and lace-up ankle boots. Oh, and I cinched in the waist with a skinny leopard print belt from J.Crew. I’m thankful I decided to bring my mustard yellow toggle coat along — come the evening, having a hood to block out the windchill proved to be game-changing. AKA, I didn’t completely freeze.

Day 2: Being in the city during the most magical time of the year definitely influenced my decision to toss on this festive fair isle sweater by Free People. I opted for a casual look by styling it alongside my go-to Industry Standard jeans, lace-up ankle boots and a few layered necklaces. Side note: I'm so glad I thought to bring along my classic Cambridge Satchel bag. It was just the right size for everything I needed/wanted to carry, and it matched all my outfits without fail. #Winning

Day 3: In true NYC fashion (especially during the winter months!), you never know what to expect with the weather. That said, we actually woke up to some snow. While I enjoyed admiring the fluffy white stuff from the hotel room window at dawn amongst the quiet streets, trudging around in the slush was just a slippery mess. Although less chilly, a comfy-oh-so-cozy sweater from Scotch & Soda proved to be the perfect layering piece. I finished off the look with a cream-colored Club Monaco skirt and lace-up boots once again as the other ankle boots that I packed weren’t quite as all-weather friendly.
 
How do you combat the elements in style? Let me know in the comments below!

xo,
A

1

happy. halloween.

Happy Halloween! Hope it's spooky 👻 // Shown here: Cornelia Parker's PsychoBarn meets the New York skyline.

 

xo,
A

0

insta. obsessed. // pt. 4.

The Colorful Prep // Rachel Schwartzmann // Kevin Wong // J.Crew // Miüda the Frenchie // The Viennese Girl

551 meticulously coordinated photos later, and I surprisingly have yet to grow tired of Instagram. (Psst: You can follow me at @a_wilmer!) Between staged photos and more authentic snapshots, Instagram continues to be my go-to source for visual inspiration. Whereas I can go without checking Twitter or watching a blogger’s Snaps for a day, it’s admittedly harder for me to stop double-tapping. Whether you’re new to the Insta game or are looking to add some variety to your Instagram feed, I’ve compiled a list of six users that are currently on my radar. If you’re new to the blog, be sure to check out my first, second and third installments to see some of my previous faves. Enjoy!

@thecolorfulprep (Danielle Sarkissian: Fashion Lifestyle Blogger / OC California): Think: colorful walls, preppy style (lots of J.Crew!) and a laid-back California aesthetic to match. Summed up in one word, The Colorful Prep’s feed is simply FUN. From that infamous polka dot wall to endless coffee shop vibes, Danielle’s bright + punchy snapshots never fail to disappoint.

@rachelschwartzmann (Rachel Schwartzmann: Founder + CEO and wearing more hats for The Style Line): Can you say #girlboss? Besides being the founder of The Style Line (a creative community built upon storytelling), Rachel also has a minimalist style that slays. Seriously, so good. I’m constantly getting inspiration from her daily outfit snapshots. For a glimpse at Rachel’s favorite NYC spots and daily adventures — and well-edited photos with a hipster aesthetic — be sure to give her a follow.

@kevinwonka (Kevin Wong: Hong Kong & New York. Parsons Architecture Design. Creator of #Neckxercise): Warning: This Instagram feed will fuel your love affair with New York City. I stumbled upon Kevin’s feed a while ago and have been blown away by his insane photography skills and game-changing perspective ever since. For architecture… and city corners… and unparalleled skyline views… it’s all here.

@jcrew (J.Crew): Okay, so this one’s a no-brainer. Between fashion week coverage, Jenna Lyons-esque styling (pattern play! colour!) and no shortage of #shinyponies to go around, J.Crew’s presence on social is always on point. If you love J.Crew as a brand, then it's safe to say that you’ll love their Insta even more.

@miudafrenchie (Miüda: “I was born in Slovakia, now I live in Vienna but my humans are Portuguese. I take selfies all day long. Problem??!): Until I can actually snag a French Bulldog of my own, this account will have to do. Meet Miüda, aka the cutest Frenchie in existence. Adorableness aside, this Frenchie account is incredibly streamlined and aesthetically pleasing with lots of glorious white space. (Even the photos of Miüda napping have artistic value!)

@theviennesegirl (Silia | Vienna. Photography): Of course, no roundup of Instagram users would be complete without at least one Vienna-based account. I’ve followed the Viennese Girl for some time now, and it’s been a delight seeing Silia grow as a photographer and blogger. Not just restricted to Vienna street shots (which are swoon-inducing in their own right), she also shares snapshots of her latest travels and ultra-glam photo shoots.

What are your favorite Instagram accounts to follow? Leave a comment below!

xo,

A

0

nyc. holiday. recap.

Because I'm so NOT ready to leave Christmas behind just yet (is it really over?!), I've rounded up some photos that I took during a recent trip to NYC. Speaking of which, it's true what they say: No one does the holidays like the Big Apple. Just when you thought that the the city couldn't get any more magical, it totally does. From the holiday markets and stunning window displays to festive decorations around every corner, it's safe to say that I came home in a holidaze. I especially lucked out with the unseasonably warm weather, which made roaming the city even more enjoyable. Scroll down for some of my favorite snapshots (read: photo overload) that best capture the city's holiday charm.

C'ville --> NYC via Amtrak.

THIS view. The #NewWhitney has easily become one of my top favorite museums in NYC.

Checking out Frank Stella: A Retrospective.  

Holiday cheer wherever you go... Can you believe that I went sans tights during December in NYC?!

Run, run as fast as you can... A close-up of one of Lord & Taylor's holiday windows.

Marimekko, it's always a pleasure.

But seriously, when can I move in? 

New pizza spot? Check. For pizza by the slice, Joe's Pizza is the place to go.

SoHo afternoons + architecture around every corner. You know that you're a tourist when you can't stop looking up.

Two words: Holiday. Markets. I had so much fun browsing the holiday vendors for unique trinkets and local goods while snatching up the occasional molasses cookie.

DO make a pitstop at every holiday market that you stumble upon.

Hey there, Charlie Brown, Sally + Franklin... The Peanuts gang took over Macy's and it was basically the cutest thing ever.

A Charlie Brown Christmas comes to life.

I can't even. Macy's seriously outdid themselves this year.

Strolling along Fifth Avenue at night, and naturally, I had to snap a photo of Henri Bendel's festive window display.

Snapped along the edge of Central Park. I'm pretty sure there's nothing better than quiet NYC mornings.

NYC's equivalent of decking the halls in style... as seen at Columbus Circle.

Christmas scene at Bryant Park. Not photographed: Ice skating + a scrumptious waffle from Wafels & Dinges.

A peek inside Henri Bendel during the daytime.

Rockefeller Center and the Christmas tree of all Christmas trees.

Unintentional photobomber in the background, but hey, here's a cute snapshot of my #OOTD.

I think it's safe to say that an annual trip during the holidays to NYC is definitely going to become a new tradition of mine. I quite honestly couldn't have asked for a better Christmas present! Stay tuned for a roundup of photos from my evening at the Whitney Museum — I decided to write up a separate post for that since this one's already super long.

What are your favorite things to do in NYC during the holidays? Leave a comment below!

xo,
A

2