Runway yellows, from left: Delposo, Jenny Packham, Delposo, Oscar de la Renta, Ralph Lauren.
Spring demands a certain amount of renewed optimism, and nothing gives your wardrobe—and mood—a more radiant boost like an infusion of yellow. Cheerful, playful and unexpected—and just the right amount of flirtatious—yellow is back in a big way. But the latest crop of this inspirational color is neither too buttery nor too pastel. This is a bigger, bolder, “look at me, I’m in a great mood” yellow that takes you back to your favorite childhood galoshes and the Man With the Yellow Hat, albeit with a decidedly more glamorous twist. This cheery hue is shining on every trend this season, from cropped pants and sheer dresses to bathrobe-style coats and billowy skirts, all designed to put you in the spotlight. Wear it well, sunshine.
For seven seasons, Don Draper & Co. had a lot to say. Here, our favorite 10 quotables.
Mad Men returns April 5 for its final run. Photo courtesy of AMC.
Sure, they spent most of their time smoking, drinking and engaging in adulterous relationships—and, oh yeah, creating ads. But, hey, it was the 1960s. And besides, the beloved characters of the AMC series Mad Men, which begins its final six-episode run this Sunday, also put significant energy into ruminating about their career lives, romantic lives, political lives and life in general. From secretary-turned-executive Joan Harris’ quips that left us wondering if she was a feminist or not, to creative ad man Don Draper’s inspirational speeches that could sell ice to an Inuit, here are our 10 favorite quotes from the past seven seasons.
1. “Men don’t take the time to end things. They ignore you until you insist on a declaration of hate.” —Joan Holloway… //READ MORE
As the rom-com turns 25, a look at how a gritty film evolved into a Hollywood fairytale.
Roberts was only 22 when she was cast as Hollywood prostitute Vivian.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BUENA VISTA/EVERETT.
We all know, deep down, that fairy tales are bullshit. But when Pretty Woman hit the big screen in 1990, we somehow bought into the idea that a Hollywood hooker—even one that looked like Julia Roberts—could somehow win the heart of a successful, gorgeous, romantic Prince Charming.
We suspended disbelief because we had to. The chemistry was that good between Roberts and Richard Gere, the aforementioned successful, gorgeous, romantic Prince Charming—or in this case, a ruthless M&A guy with a sensitive side. But what many of us didn’t realize while we were watching the sexy rom-com (which turns 25 this year!), the plot was quite different from the original film written by J.F. Lawton. … //READ MORE
We love romantic escapes with our significant others. We adore playful weekends away with the family. But sometimes we just need a getaway with the girls. We need a trip with the women who know and love us and can put up with our biggest quirks—including our penchant for turning up that really bad 90s music on the rental car stereo, hogging up the armrest on the airplane, or spitting sunflower seeds out the window as we drive (wait, no, that was Billy Crystal in When Harry Met Sally).
If you’re lucky enough to have a friend—or two, or three—with whom you’d love to escape for a few days, here are 5 fun-loving towns to blow through this weekend.
Victorian manors line Charleston’s pretty waterfront.
1. Charleston, S.C.
The plentiful shopping and dining options, gorgeous Antebellum architecture, mild weather and generous Southern charm make Charleston the perfect girls-weekend destination. This is a truly walkable city where you can soak up the history, experience the food and nightlife, and shop until you drop—all without straying too far from your hotel.
Stuff to do: Start your weekend by exploring Charleston’s main attractions by foot. Wander around Waterfront Park and stroll the boardwalk along the Cooper River, taking note of the lovely mansions perched on the water. Take a scenic ferry ride across the river or a carriage ride around town. Frolic along King Street in the historic district, where dozens of boutiques, antique shops and restaurants draw big crowds on the weekends. After dinner, head to City Market, a series of open-air stalls and small shops peddling everything from fresh local food to handwoven sweetgrass baskets. If you feel like venturing out of the city center, drive to the 18th-century Middleton Place, a national historic landmark and home of the oldest landscaped gardens, or the Charleston Tea Plantation, in the heart of South Carolina’s low country, both of which offer tours. Or head to the beach to soak up some sun on the seaside village Sullivan’s Island, just minutes from downtown.
Where to stay: The historic French Quarter Inn offers the ultimate in Southern hospitality, pampering you with champagne upon arrival, wine and cheese in the afternoon, and milk and cookies at night. Another good choice is the Market Pavilion Hotel, which features a cascading pool and a rooftop bar with sweeping views of the city. For more moderately priced accommodations, the Doubletree Guest Suites in the heart of the historic district offers spacious rooms and suites within walking distance of City Market.
What to eat and drink: Charleston is one of the country’s most up-and-coming foodie destinations, offering not only amazing restaurants but numerous culinary tours and cooking classes, such as those run by Charleston Cooks. The city is known for its Southern homestyle cooking featuring fresh local seafood, so don’t leave town without sampling the regional cuisine at Poogan’s Porch, housed in a Victorian townhouse in the historic district. For more modern fare, check out the loft-like atmosphere and mediterranean-inspired plates at Cannon Green, or head to Sullivan’s Island for the nouveau-French/Italian/Spanish fare at The Obstinate Daughter. After dinner, check out the lively late-night crowd at Social Wine Bar, the sophisticated ambiance and house-made infusions at Cocktail Club, or the lively scene at bowling-alley-meets-bar The Alley.
A row of brownstones in Brooklyn Heights, which has glorious views of Manhattan.
2. Brooklyn, N.Y.:
Manhattan will always be glam central, but we all know Brooklyn is currently where it’s at. So why not skip M island altogether and spend an entire weekend in the ethnically diverse borough that gave birth to New York cheesecake, Nathan’s fries and hipsters.
Stuff to do: Get acclimated to some of Brooklyn’s trendy neighborhoods by taking a Made in Brooklyn Tour. Then grab your walking shoes and subway map and get ready to explore. Must-sees include the gorgeous Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the history-filled MTA-Transit Museum, a wind-in-your-hair excursion on the East River Ferry, and an exhilarating ride on the Coney Island Cyclone, the 16th oldest roller coaster in the world. If you feel like some shopping, browse the trendy boutiques along Fifth and Seventh avenues in Park Slope, the mom-and-pop stores on Atlantic Avenue in Cobble Hill, or the high-end shops along the cobblestoned streets of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). If vintage goodies are more your thing, visit the bustling weekend market Brooklyn Flea, which has two locations in Fort Greene and Williamsburg. After watching the sun go down from—where else?—Sunset Park, check out Brooklyn’s burgeoning Indie Rock scene at Music Hall of Williamsburg or Pete’s Candy Store.
Where to stay: There’s no better location than Williamsburg in which to plant yourself for a couple nights. Comfy beds, trendy decor and a super-central location are what the popular Condor Hotel has to offer. Or check your posse into the Wythe Hotel, whose handsome lobby, loft-style rooms and trendy rooftop bar overlooking the Manhattan skyline set the tone for a relaxed, stylish weekend.
What to eat and drink: Williamsburg newcomerThe Heyward is generating buzz for its Southern-inspired menu, sleek decor and inventive cocktails; with its tin ceilings and vintage-y decor, the place is as Brooklyn as it gets. Another fun choice is Carroll Gardens favorite Alma, whose modern-Mexican menu includes everything from chicken mole to chilaquiles, and whose potent cocktails make the gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline even more stunning.
Excellent shopping, food and nightlife make Paris the perfect girlfriend destination.
3. Paris
Yes, for this excursion we’re sending you across the pond to a town that has a reputation as the ultimate lovers destination. But Paris—with its spectacular sites and unparalleled shopping, food and nightlife—can also set the scene for a kick-ass girls weekend. Whether you spend more time on the artsy Left Bank (Rive Gauche) or the more classy Right Bank, you’re destined for a fun time in the City of Light.
Stuff to do: Conquer Paris by foot or metro, but either way get started early because there’s so much to see. On the Right Bank, walk the Champs Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe, and from the Paris Opera (home of the Phantom) to Place de La Concorde, where the guillotine took Marie-Antoinette’s life. Visit the Mona Lisa at the Louvre and the impressive impressionists at the Musée D’Orsay. Then spend a little time around Place Vendôme for some expensive retail therapy. The next day, tap into the rich bohemian past of the Left Bank’s charming Latin Quarter. Stroll along Boulevard Saint-Germain, where Sonia Rykiel, Yves Saint Laurent and other designer boutiques await you. Pop into Le Bon Marché, the quintessential Parisian department store, to purchase the Paris-shopping-list trifecta: shoes, perfume and lingerie. Before you leave, pick up some picnic fare in the food hall and lunch on the lawn of the nearby Jardin du Luxembourg. Finally, take an elevator to the top of the iconic Eiffel Tower, in the 7th Arondissement, and wind down with a cruise along the Seine, where you’ll see all the city’s famous bridges, including the oldest, Pont Neuf.
Where to stay: The legendary Hotel Ritz Paris, home to Coco Chanel in 1934, is unfortunately closed for renovations until mid-2015. So if you’re heading to Paris before the grand reopening, book a room at the equally regal Plaza Athénée, a posh yet hip hangout between the Champs-Élysées and Eiffel Tower. For a more downtown experience, stay at Five Hotel in the artsy 5th Arrondisement, a modern hotel featuring space-age suites with large bathrooms, private patios and hot tubs.
What to eat and drink: If you’re heading to the chic shopping neighborhood the Marais, put down your bags and lunch at a neighborhood cafe such as Chez Camille. If you’ve just braved the museum crowds, treat yourself to something sweet at Angelina on the Rue du Rivoli, known for its romantic Belle Epique decor and heavenly hot chocolate.For dinner, try La Rotonde on the boulevard de Montparnasse, an Art Deco cafe Hemingway mentioned in The Sun Also Rises, or Joël Robuchon’s famed L’Atelier in Saint-Germain, featuring a circular bar and a custom menu. Paris nightlife picks up late in the evening, and if you’re a jazz lover, check out Le Caveau de la Huchette in the Latin Quarter or Le Speakeasy piano bar in the 16th Arrondissement. Intellectual types may prefer La Belle Hortense, a cool bookstore/wine bar, and party girls will adore World Place, a dance club owned by Johnny Depp, John Malkovich and Sean Penn.
Head to Scottsdale for the picturesque views and fun sightseeing. Photo courtesy of the Scottsdale Convention & Visitors Bureau
4. Scottsdale, Ariz.
From the moment the sun rises over the Sonoran Desert until long after it sets, Scottsdale offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Spa treatments, outdoor activities and laid-back bars will feed your group’s need for both excitement and party time.
Stuff to do: If there’s one thing you and your girls do in Scottsdale—besides lounge next to the pool—it’s visit one of the town’s luxurious day spas, many of which are housed within posh resorts. From the prickly pear sugar scrub and crushed-pearl mani-pedi at Golden Door at Boulders to the 24-karat gold facial at the Spa at Gainey Village, there’s a relaxing treatment to suit everyone’s taste. If getting up early seems possible, take a sunrise hot air balloon ride for spectacular views of the desert, or hike the trailheads at Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Hop on a free trolley to explore downtown and the waterfront, and hop off at Old Town to stroll the cute fashion boutiques, antique shops and art galleries. For some offbeat fun, take the Magical History Tour at Hotel Valley Ho and learn about Old Hollywood architecture. Finally, head back to your hotel—or someone else’s hotel—to swim and sunbathe. The water park at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale and the after-dark techno slide with disco lights at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess are standouts.
Where to stay: The 53-acre Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa offers luxurious casitas with spectacular views, an Asian-inspired spa and an infinity pool. For the ultimate in old-world luxury, stay at the Phoenician, whose stately rooms, 10 restaurants, golf course, spa and luxury amenities set the tone for a glamorous weekend. Bigger groups can easily spread out in one the Phoenician’s elegant and spacious Canyon Suites.
What to eat and drink: Enjoy breakfast on a sun-drenched patio surrounded by butterflies at the cozy Cafe Monarch, whose tiny but delicious menu allows you to choose either a “sweet” or “savory” option. Tucked away in the Bespoke Inn in Old Town, elegant newcomer Virtù dishes out Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a Southwestern zest. Proof, at the Four Seasons at Troon North, serves up chicken with waffles, spiked root-beer floats and other comfort food in a lively canteen setting. After dinner, grab one of the inventive cocktails at Salt Lounge, then catch a flick at t iPic Theater, which doles out complimentary popcorn, wine and beer.
Vegas allows you to see several cities in one shot. Here, the New York-New York Hotel & Casino on the Strip.
5. Las Vegas:
OK, so the whole “Vegas, baby” thing may be a little cliché. But for some of you, Vegas is still the ultimate party destination. Every year something new and outrageous pops up in this quirky town, making it endlessly exciting.
Where to stay:The Cromwell, with its sexy vibe and guest rooms styled like nouveau bordellos, has one of the best locations on the Strip—not to mention an all-day beverage service offered on each floor of the hotel. The ultra-modern Cosmopolitan (or the “Cosmo,” as it’s affectionately called) has established itself as one of the trendiest spots in Vegas. The resort features large rooms with chic furnishings, a spa and three pools, one of which converts into a nightclub. Checking in guests using an iPad is just one of the ways this hotels remains hip and current.
What to eat and drink: Emmy-Award winning celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis has opened her first-ever restaurant, Giada, inside The Cromwell. This charming Las Vegas restaurant boasts a California-style menu, a cozy outdoor patio with views of the Bellagio fountains, and a very long waitlist—so make your reservations far in advance. Newcomer Cleo will make you feel like an Egyptian princess with its pyramid-shaped entrance, emerald-green curtains, Moroccan tiles and chandeliers—not to mention Chef Danny Elmaleh’s scrumptious seasonal mezzes, flatbreads and handcrafted infusions.
Have fun choosing your next girls weekend destination—and let us know where you’re headed!
I love having girls. The complexities of my twin daughters’ personalities confound and delight me daily. Next year they’ll go to kindergarten, taking one more step toward independence. But, while I love watching them mature into confident and capable girls, my fears about the world they’re growing up in can get the better of me. In the dark shadows of 4 a.m. I can get fixated on eating disorders, cyber bullying, and the violence against women that continues in our culture. I wonder, how can I prepare them for danger without contaminating them with fear? … //READ MORE
From army duds to bohemian prints, here are the season's dominating looks.
Neo swank: Derek Lam (first two runway shots), Emilio Pucci, Prada and Daniele Oberrauchd
Spring may not be in the air just yet, but warm-weather fashions are already making their way into stores. This season’s trends are as eclectic as our recent weather patterns, ranging from neo-hippie maxi dresses to kimono-inspired outerwear to ballerina-worthy separates. Sporty looks continue to dominate, but ultra feminine lacey numbers and gingham prints are also in the limelight. And look for more retro trends to emerge, but in a more laid-back way. Ready, set, go spring shopping!
1. ’70s SUBDUED: Just when we thought we’d seen the last days of disco, the spring collections take a walk on the less-than-wild side of the decade. While fall was all about swanky prints and plunging necklines, this time around designers like Saint Laurent, Prada, Chloe and Pucci focused on more relaxed silhouettes, toned-down colors and lived-in fabrics. Look for fit-and-flare pants, suede and leather jackets with large lapels, chunky platforms and block heels, and lots of patchwork. Above photo, left to right: Derek Lam (first two runway shots), Emilio Pucci, Prada and Daniele Oberrauchd.
Psychedelic Trip: Valentino, Alberta Ferretti, Emilio Pucci, Dries Van Noten, Etro and Roberto Cavalli
2. BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY: Again, a fall trend evolves into an earthier version of itself. If last season was all about ’60s mod, spring takes us back to the softer, more seductive, mother-nature-influenced side of the era. Designers such as Valentino, Etro, Dries Van Noten, Alberta Ferretti and Chloe all revisited the Age of Aquarius, sending models down the runway in generously cut maxi dresses in flowing hippie prints and diaphanous fabrics. Totally groovy.
Army Influence: Sacai, Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, Jason Wu and Gucci.
3. MILITARY GREEN: We’re not talking Private Benjamin when we say you should enlist in green this season. This military-chic hue is appearing on feminine silhouettes such as shirtdresses, mini skirts and cropped jackets, commanding attention on even your sexiest spring pieces. If you’re not gushing over the green, though, have no fear: Khaki is also making a comeback.
Reality Check: DVF, Thom Browne, Michael Kors and Oscar de la Renta
4. GO, GINGHAM: The classic ’50s print has jumped out of a Beach Blanket Bingo movie and is now showing at a store near you. You’ll find the easy, breezy look on everything from pencil skirts and cropped tops to short-shorts and dresses, with black-and-white and blue-and-white the color combos of choice. With gingham at our fingertips, summer can’t be too far away.
Sashing Out: The Row, Bottega Veneta, Phillip Lam, Marni, Alexander Wang and Celine
5. KIMONO INSPIRED: Bathrobe-inspired coats were big last season, and this spring designers are once again tying us up in knots. The kimono-inspired sash is punching up jackets, shirtdresses, blouses and spring coats, emphasizing the waistline and lending an exotic flair to otherwise basic silhouettes.
Flood Watch: Akris, Adam Selman, Wes Gordon and Ohne Titel
6. CROPPED PANTS: No, designers were not expecting a flood when they sketched this season’s pants and jeans. But they apparently wanted the world to get a better view of your lovely ankles. Following the culottes trend that hit last fall, the latest crop of bottoms includes loose-fitting denim, chinos and trousers in a variety of colors and finishes. High-rise versions pair nicely with fitted sweaters and jackets, while belly-button-revealing styles are a great foundation for a peasant blouse or crop top —and revealing well-toned abs.
Aisle Style: Simone Rocha, Louis Vuitton, Erdem, Rosie Assoulin, Marc Jacobs and Chanel
7. WHITE (OR SILVER) WEDDING: This is the third season in a row that’s been dominated by white and other bridal-inspired hues, and the newest incarnations are almost fit for a walk down the aisle. Look for delicate, super-feminine dresses and skirts constructed of lace and crochet, and details such as buttons, cutouts, fringe and cinched waists. Billy Idol would be thrilled.
8. BALLERINA CHIC: With short-shorts, wrap tops and Louis heels in the spotlight for several seasons now, the time seemed right for designers to pull the latest prima-ballerina-worthy looks straight from a dancer’s closet. Light-as-air chiffon dresses, bouncy tulle skirts, and a palette that includes black and blush pink are tiptoeing into fashion. And the best news is that a size 0 dancer’s body isn’t required to rock the majority of these graceful styles.
Black Holes: Altuzarra, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Fendi and Versace
9. BLACK MESH: The sportier-than-thou trend continues, with black netting the fabric of choice for women who want to wear some edge this season. A little bit dominatrix and a little bit Grace Jones (are those two the same thing?), somehow this look is styled in a way that says “wide world of sports” more than “fifty shades of black.” Have a field day with woven leather and embroidery, creatively placed zippers and strings, sheer panels and cut-outs galore.
Skirting the Issue: Peter Som, DKNY and TOME
10. SKIRT LAYERING: We saw this trend back in the late ’90s and were wondering if it would ever dare re-emerge, and apparently the comeback is happening now. Perhaps looking to generate a little excitement in an otherwise low-key fashion season, designers covered the bottom halves of maxi, shift and shirt dresses with tiny wrap skirts and other apron-like concoctions, for no other reason than to add another layer of interest. Take or leave this one—it’s entirely up to you.
OTHER TRENDS TO WATCH FOR: Yes, there’s more. This spring, be ready for squared-off necklines (also time traveling back from the ’90s), polo-inspired shirts and dresses, and even more fringe than we saw last season. Besides army and ballet colors, you’ll be seeing lots of yellow, navy and black-and-white prints—particularly in geometric or grid patterns. Also look for metallic outerwear, oversize polka-dot prints, and flashy, oversized animal prints. And if you think gladiator-style boots were over, think again, because they’re back for another round.
