There are some things that are cliches for a reason: because they’re just so utterly wonderful. For me, no matter how many ‘Top 10 Things to do in New York!’ lists the Brooklyn Bridge winds up on (and the throngs of tourists that come with the package), a visit to New York never feels complete without an homage to that spectacular Manhattan skyline.
So a couple of weekends ago in New York, Nicolette and I headed to the Williamsburg waterfront for brunch (I say ‘brunch’, but really I just mean a delicious, but not at all nutritionally-balanced combination of grilled cheese and salted caramel s’mores and hot chai) and treasure-hunting at the Brooklyn Flea Market (long-time readers may remember my post from the same spot here). Afterwards we took the ferry a few minutes up the East River to Dumbo, where we made our way around to the foot of the Bridge, stopping for hot apple cider and a ride on Jane’s Carousel (as evidenced here, this was the best use of $2, ever) on the way.
Although I may take my tourism very seriously, you’ll never find me dressed like one (I’m allergic to the thought of very thought of the puffer jacket/sneakers/backpack look that seems to be the uniform of tourists the world-over). Instead, a chic trench coat and a smattering of sparkles is much more my default ‘playing tourist’ style.
This Coach trench coat (which I wore constantly all autumn) proved to be the perfect travel companion; it goes with everything, is at once chic and comfortable, and not so precious that I mind using it as a makeshift picnic blanket in Central Park or squashing it into my suitcase. Here, I teamed it with an old favourite embellished silk organza tee, rose-tinted sunglasses (for watching the golden sunset over the Manhattan skyscrapers from our vantage point on the Bridge), and my favourite New York souvenir: these gold spangled heels from the J. Crew Collection store on Madison Avenue that are actually comfortable enough to walk in for miles and miles.
As we crossed the Bridge, the sun sank behind the Manhattan skyline, casting all of the skyscrapers golden as Lady Liberty looked on against the pink sunset on the horizon. Afterwards, we made our way to Chinatown for dim sum at Nom Wah tea parlour, a hearty karaoke session and impromptu midnight manicures.
It was the perfect New York day.
Wearing: Coach trench coat (c/o), J. Crew shoes, Chanel 2.55 bag, Whistles blouse (past season), Citizens of Humanity coated jeans (also available here) (c/o), Elizabeth and James ‘Francis’ sunglasses, Mimco necklace, bracelets and flower ring (past season), Jacquie Aiche heart ring, Topshop brooch (arrow), Accessorize pin (Statue of Liberty). Beauty note: ASOS bow clip (in hair), Essie ‘Bahama Mama’ polish, MAC ‘Hue’ lipstick.
Love, Miss B xx
Photos of me by Nicolette
I tried on those heels because they gorgeous and just make me smile, but I sadly didn’t find then comfortable. Am I the only one? Advice?
Oh no, I’m sorry to hear that! For me, I found them so comfortable because they’re lower than my usual heels with a chunky, sturdy heel which makes them easier to stand/walk in.
B xx
You look lovely, the trench, the shoes, the bag.. all perfect.
xo
http://pinksole.com
That is so sweet; thank you so much Rochelle!
B xx
Oh, I love them heels.
Thank you, I adore them too!
B xx
I love the sparkle! And it sounds like a great excursion.
Thank you! And it was even more fun than it sounds!
B xx
Your pictures and description of the NY skylines makes me so desperately need to see it again… sigh.
Also, don’t be hating on sneakers. I remember a photo ages ago of you eating macaroons in central park, and I saw chunky, white, Seinfield things on your feet.
It is such a wonderful city! And I promise you I never, ever, ever wear sneakers (unless I’m working out). Perhaps this is the photo you’re thinking about? http://agirlastyle.com/2012/07/dreams-of-paris/ If so, it was my boyfriend sitting next to me on the bench who was wearing the sneakers (he’s usually to be found in retro-style Adidas) while I was wearing something sparkly 😉
B xx
THANK GOD!! (and my bad) It did seem so out of fashion character for you.
Love your gorgeous photos! How fabulous is New York?! x
Thank you Bree! And isn’t it just the best? So madly in love with this city!
B xx
Love these heels!
Thank you! I knew they had to come home with me the moment I laid eyes on them 😉
B xx
I have those heels too! They are so pretty that I just had to have them despite being a little uncomfortable. I have very narrow heels and needed to size down so the shoe would stay on my feet.
Gorgeous photos B! I’m averse to the tourist uniform too, sparkles all the way x
You look adorable! I’ve just purchased my second trench coat – I’m obsessed – great smart and fab with jeans. And those shoes!
You are so chic! Great heels. Lovely post as always 🙂
Adela x
Misspinkstyle.net
Absolutely adore those shoes! Really want to buy them online but nervous about the size/fit. Wish we had J Crew in Australia!
I don’t like typical tourist’s look neither. I think you can be totally comfortable in a well put together outfit like yours. I only would change the shoes for a pair of oxfords. But only because my feet aren’t used to high heels.