Stylish Living: New York City Picks from Purple Lab NYC's Karen Robinovitz

  Karen Robinovitz inside of one of NYC's most enviable locations, her West Village closet.

Last time we got the hottest picks from Alice + Olivia's Stacey Bendet. I figured it was time to ask another girl about town for her favorite hotspots in NYC. I give you where to go, what to see and what to do from Purple Lab NYC's Creatrix, the lovely and amazing Karen Robinovitz. Hey, Karen, where do you:

(l-r) Virayoga, Clay Fitness and Spa

Do yoga/workout/exercise - Virayoga for Anusara yoga and Clay is my gym, though I need to get to Tracy Anderson's studio!

Dell'Anima

 

Eat - Nobu, Dell'Anima, Little Owl for amazing brunch, Aquagrill for oysters, Murray's for a cheese fest.

 

Lobby of NYC's Standard Hotel

Have a cocktail - I don't really drink so I never go out for cocktails (shhhhh, I'm secretly no fun.) If I had to pick, it would definitely be The Standard Hotel.

Hang out with your girlfriends - Home! I love having friends over and entertaining.

Kirna Zabete

 

Shop - Kirna Zabete, Curve, Resurrection Vintage, Jeffrey, Alexander McQueen, Barneys New York, Moss for home design.

Relax and unwind - Vital Ki Energy of Jungshim to get the chakras lined up and maintain balance. There's a great healing treatment for just $60 and afterward you'll feel like a million. 39 W. 14th St. The best place for a quick energy tune up.

Devachan Salon and Spa

 

Have a day of beauty - A facial with Nina at Paul Labrecque (the Upper East Side location). No one cleans skin like her. She has changed my life. And then hop down to Soho for curl love at Devachan, the only place I will let touch my hair! They have a beautiful spa as well. I have an amazing massage therapist named Eli. Having him over for late night deep tissue action would just make the day complete.

The sculpture garden at the Museum of Modern Art

 

Have a little peace and quiet - The garden of the MOMA. Nothing like sitting outside, next to a Richard Serra and journaling. There are also hidden nooks in my neighborhood (the West Village) with little gardens and benches where it's so nice to have a quiet lunch and read.

Party until dawn - I wouldn't know personally, but right now it's all about Boom Boom Room, top floor of the Standard Hotel.

 A scenic view of New Paltz

Spend time with your husband - Gallery hopping in Chelsea (we are super passionate about contemporary art and used to collect pre-Purple Lab - we can't wait to be able to collect again!) and getting on his motorcycle to jet to the DIA Center upstate. Speaking of upstate, we love weekends hiking in New Paltz.

Head out this weekend and check out some of Karen's picks for chic living and keep it here to FSB for more fabulous fashion, style and beauty news!

Retail News: +J Final Shipment, Smooth Dry and Sarafine, and Costello Tagliapietra Arriving At UNIQLO

 Ever since I was introduced to the Heattech line of slim thermals at UNIQLO, I've had a passion for this Japanese retailer that offers amazing, fashion-forward clothing at genius prices. Well, it appears they've been quite busy because they've got quite a few new arrivals to announce for your shopping pleasure:

The third and final shipment of the Spring 2010 UNIQLO “ +J ” Collection, created with fashion designer Jil Sander, will arrive Wednesday, April 21st , 2010.  Doors will open at the UNIQLO Soho store at 8am, two hours earlier than normal. This final delivery of the +J collection will focus on women’s styles, offering an exciting range of soft, light spring garments and early summer wear.

As I've mentioned, I practically lived in UNIQLO's Heattech clothing this winter and now the revolutionary brand will also be launching two new lines to keep everyone cool this summer. The superfine fibers in the men’s Smooth Dry innerwear line offer a second skin feeling while wicking away moisture, leaving you cool and comfortable during hot summer months. Sarafine will offer the same type of technology for women with an added bonus: coolness when you want to be cool and warmth when you're in a cold environment (read: subarctic air conditioning). Same technology but taken to the next level. Smooth Dry is available in fourteen styles ranging from crewneck t-shirts to boxer briefs and all items are $10.50. Sarafine is available in eight styles including a camisole, slip and leggings, with all items priced from $10.50-$15.50.

Last but certainly not least, it's been announced that cutting-edge design darlings Costello Tagliapietra have partnered with the retailer for a Spring/Summer 2010 collaboration. Following fellow designs like Phillip Lim, Alexander Wang and Steven Alan, the Costello Tagliapietra for UNIQLO collection will hit stores on May 20th and will consist of fourteen uniquely-designed styles of dresses in a range of seasonal colors like dove grey, rose, mustard yellow and cornflower blue and in soft, draped fabrics such as silk and slubbed jersey. Best of all, with prices from $29.50-$39.50, the designing duo can offer their designs at a mere fraction of the price of their regularly-priced, highly-coveted wares.

I, for one, will be indulging in all of these lines. Why not join me? UNIQLO is proof that fashion-forward style and technology is truly available for all. That's a message you can take to the bank.

Retail Therapy: Friends and Family Discount at Saks Fifth Avenue

Ah, Saks Fifth Avenue. We know how much I adore this store from 10022-SHOE to my beloved Contemporary floor (I need everything Haute Hippie and Gryphon ever made, not to mention the Olivia Harris by Joy Gryson bags - I die). From handbags to cosmetics to knockout fashion selections, this powerhouse retailer and I have had quite a love affair.

They also love FSB and you, the fabulous readers, so they're offering you a Friends and Family Discount! This coming Tuesday, April 20th online and then Thursday, April 22nd through Sunday, April 25th in-store, take 20% off (10% beauty and fragrance)! The couple is listed above with the discount code, so commence to shopping. Spring is coming and you deserve something fab!

Fashion News: Target Announces Tucker by Gaby Basora and Temple St. Clair As Newest Design Collaborations

Hot off the presses! Even as I danced, dallied and shopped my heart out at Zac Posen's 24-hour launch party last night (when it arrives in stores, you won't be disappointed), two new collections were announced for Target's designer collaboration series: Tucker by Gaby Basora and Temple St. Clair.

Gaby Basora will launch her exclusive collection as part of the Go International series at most Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com.  Known for her wearable designs and innovative prints inspired by everything from flowers to candy wrappers, it looks like a total win-win: the designer's collection for Target will expand her brand and women's closets everywhere will be the better for it. Look for the fashion collection to launch on September 12th of this year and remain in-store through October 17th.

Meanwhile, the Temple St. Clair for Target® Accessories Collection will highlight the covet-worthy designs of Temple St. Clair Carr. Beloved by the New York town car set (Upper East Siders predominately for you Gossip Girl fans), look for truly elegant jewelry (fingers crossed for cocktail rings like the one above) and hopefully an interpretation of her signature rock crystal amulet to hit stores as a limited-edition collection nationwide and online from August 29th through December 26th.

Fashion Steal: Victor Victor Alfaro Handbags

I love a good bargain. You're thinking, "You just bought Dior shoes" but honestly, that's such a rare situation you have no idea. Like everyone, I have a passion for fashion at a really great price. This is why I like designers who can fulfill my needs when it comes to cost-effective style, like the super fabulous Victor Victor Alfaro line from designer Victor Alfaro.

The former CFDA winner has been super busy with his collection for Bon-Ton and I, for one, am in love. Please do note the spectacular craftsmanship and the PRICES! Handbags are between $60 and $72. This is on-trend style that won't break the bank. Taylor Swift's been seen quite a bit rocking  a style similar to this chic Victor Victor Alfaro Tassel Hobo ($72), which I also adore.

Clothes, shoes, handbags - this is a fun line at the right price. Head to Bon-Ton and check it out!

Obsession of the Day: By Killian Rose Oud Eau de Parfum

Every once in a while, I think it's nice to treat yourself to something fabulous. When I mean fabulous, I mean something that every time you look at it, you smile like there's no tomorrow. It doesn't matter what it is: a new pair of jeans, a fabulous ring...or a mind-blowing perfume that will have heads turning everywhere.

Recently, I was introduced to one of the most luxurious fragrances I have ever smelled and I can't stop wearing it: By Killian Rose Oud Eau de Parfum. Created by luxury perfumer Killian Hennessy, the grandson and heir of the legendary Hennessy cognac company (part of the luxury conglomerate Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy, or LVMH), this is the second fragrance in the Arabian Nights collection and the essence of the ultra-sensual Turkish Rose. It's a mysterious fragrance that develops with rich and opulent notes of rose, incense, amber and musk. If anyone gets close enough to your skin to smell it, they won't be backing away anytime soon: it's a seductive fragrance that pulls you in so you'll never want to let go.

You're thinking to yourself, what's "oud," right? Oud is an extremely rare and precious oil found in agarwood from the aquilaria tree in Southeast Asia. The oil itself has a complex, warm, woody scent but it's incredibly animalistic. In many Middle Eastern countries, it's reported to be worth more than its weight in gold.

Exactly. This is seduction in a bottle, people. It's Dynasty relived. It's worth every drop.

The scent comes in a weighty bottle with gold detail and arrives in a similarly-crafted, lined coffret for storage away from the light (and borrowing hands). It's also refillable, which I adore.

Like I said, every once in a while you deserve to treat yourself. If smelling like a goddess is your method of reward, there's nothing like this gorgeous luxury fragrance.

By Killian Rose Oud Eau de Parfum ($395), available at Bergdorf Goodman

FTC disclosure: small tester received for review 

Fashion Necessity: Eugenia Kim and Cynthia Vincent for Target

My love for Target truly knows no bounds and with designer collections coming left and right, my affection only grows deeper with time. What other store can feed my affection for affordable designer collections, scented candles and bulk cleaning products simultaneously? There isn't one. Hence, I pledge my allegiance to the bullseye.

Mark your calendars for April 18th because two designer heavyhitters are releasing accessories collections for Target: genius milliner Eugenia Kim and the fabulous accessories designer Cynthia Vincent.

Milliner Eugenia Kim is a celebrity favorite, creating quirky takes on classic headwear shapes. The Eugenia Kim for Target collection is inspired by Havana, Cuba and will include many silhouettes including a cloche, a fedora, sunhats and a pillbox shape using woven and printed fabrics with various embellishments. You can see for yourself how addictive these creations are.

Meanwhile, Cynthia Vincent for Target will focus on the flirty feminine style of the designer. Wedges, flats and gladiator sandals in bright and classic hues with embellishments and hardware will make them some of the hottest shoes to sport this season. Her vibrant use of color mixed with her understanding of what looks good on the foot ensure this will be a highly addictive collection.

Grab your girls and make a date to head to Target so you can check out these adorable collections on April 18th! You'll be all dolled up for spring AND completely stocked up on your other essentials. Genius, people.

Shopping Event: Zac Posen for Target 24-Hour Shopping Party

You know that New Yorkers love a good party and we take combat training for a good sale. Well, ladies of Manhattan, it's time to call in scared for work next Thursday (as in, "I'm afraid I won't be there today) and take a disco nap because Zac Posen is creating a pop-up shopping party here in our fair city where you can shop his collection for Target BEFORE it's released in stores across the country. Beginning at 11 pm on April 15th and ending at 11 pm on April 16th, expect fabulous fun fashions from the designing genius at unbelievable prices.

You'll notice I said "shopping party," right? That's because there will be live music and DJs playing to make this a shopping experience like no other! Performances by The Like and DJs Kid America will make this the hottest spot in town for a full 24 hours, in addition to surprises happening every hour at random. I mean it, people: you won't want to miss this one. See you there!

Zac Posen for Target Pop-Up Shopping Party
Beginning Thursday, April 15th at 11pm - Friday, April 16th until 11pm
481 8th Avenue at 34th Street

Fashionable Man: The J. Crew Men's Fall 2010 Presentation

To quote ZZ Top, we all know that every girl's crazy about a sharp-dressed man. This is why I bring you relevant and gorgeous menswear when it comes across my desk. Attention, J. Crew shoppers: this one's for you.

The Fall 2010 Presentation was recently held in the Penthouse of MILK Studios here in Manhattan and designer Frank Muytjens presented his first offsite presentation for the label in style. The collection, a combination of utilitarian and military-inspired pieces paired with elegant menswear suits & jackets, looks like it will be an incredible success. Gents who shop the retailer can look forward to such luxe pieces as the Ludlow Suit (complete with Loro Piana fabrics - I die) and Alden for J.Crew wingtips. Here's a sneak preview of the collection you can look forward to seeing come autumn of this year:

So, J. Crew dudes, get your spending list together. Looks like a rather well-dressed season is coming. Plan accordingly.

FSB On the Scene: Alice + Olivia By Stacey Bendet Shop Opening at Saks Fifth Avenue New York

Who doesn't love a fabulous party, especially when you get to party and shop at the same time? Everyone knows I love a good soiree, so when I got an invitation to celebrate the launch of the new Alice + Olivia by Stacey Bendet store at Saks Fifth Avenue, you know I was there to check out the scene. I mean, when the designer who does the cutest party clothes on Earth invites you to a party, you go.

This was an amazing evening. The Fifth Floor at Saks' New York flagship was transformed with a DJ station, a bar and a step-and-repeat where celebrities galore posed for photos in support of Stacey and her amazing store launch. The drinks were flowing and we were treated to one of the coolest things I've ever seen or heard in my life: DJ duo Mia Moretti and Caitlin Moe turned the party into the hottest nightspot in town with their live DJ / electric violin hybrid performance.  Seriously, everyone at the party gathered around to check out this amazing scene. It sounded absolutely fabulous and you could hear all of us saying, "This is a department store? This is AMAZING!” They added such a vibrant accent to the party and the clothes.

Celebrities galore arrived in style as well. Melissa Joan Hart, Shiri Appleby,Tinsley Mortimer, Shontelle, Richie Rich, Fabiola Beracasa, Byrdie Bell, Becca Diamond, Cory Kennedy, and so many others arrived in - what else? gorgeous Alice + Olivia clothes.

 Designer Stacey Bendet with Gossip Girl's Kelly Rutherford and Matthew Settle

 Hold onto your hats, Gossip Girl fans: Kelly Rutherford and Matthew Settle arrived for a cocktail and with all the mixing and mingling, I wound up chatting with Matthew. See photo evidence of how gorgeous and nice he is in person here.

Gossip Girl's Kelly Rutherford and Matthew Settle

 But what would an Alice + Olivia party be without the stunning clothes! The shop at Saks is truly gorgeous, with rows of the Spring collection just ripe for the picking. I personally have my eye on just about everything, but some personal picks for everyone's wardrobe would be the Sequined Crochet Shrug ($484) for instant glamour and this Cowlneck Silk Dress ($242) for day-to-night glamour. I personally have my eye on about twelve things from the collection, but that shrug and I have to become friends very soon. So amazing.

The hilarious and very sweet Richie Rich, formerly of Heatherette

Even though you couldn't make it to this fabulous evening with Alice + Olivia and my beloved Saks Fifth Avenue, I definitely encourage you to slip into some of designer Stacey Bendet's gorgeous clothes. After all, life's really a party if you think about it. Dress accordingly.

Obsession of the Day: My New Young, Fabulous and Broke Kane Top

I have had a minor obsession with Young, Fabulous and Broke clothing ever since my friend Karen Robinovitz busted out in a pair of their luxe oversized yoga pants almost two years ago. I've been steadily making my list of acquisitions for spring/summer and this top was at the top of the list as a reward for losing another five pounds. After Core Fusion, yoga and three Spinning classes a week, the three pounds went bye-bye and you know what that means. Yesterday, I took a gift certificate to Saks Fifth Avenue and acquired my long-time obsession. This is the shot of me throwing it on in the dressing room. I love this shirt so much that I'm sharing my joy with you without makeup. That's devotion, people.

This drapey ombre top hides a multitude of sins and is just as luxe going from day to night. I wore mine last night with ripped skinny jeans and Michael Kors platform sandals but really, it would work with leggings (as shown in the picture), blue or white jeans, cutoffs, yoga pants for hanging around the house, etc. I got the black and turquoise version but I think this black and white version is just as versatile and California cool.

You'll be seeing this top in photos a lot. Soft, comfortable and chic? I'm completely sold.


Young, Fabulous and Broke Kane Top $140, available at Revolve Clothing