Life is better with bubbles
I had to bring a bit of Austin back to NYC. Since 1977 with its big red boot sign, Allen’s Boots in Austin has been fulfilling every cowboy/cowgirl’s dreams with their huge selection. Get a tequila shot while you shop and pick your favorite pair!
I finally made it to Austin and loved the delicious food and music on every corner. There is a lot to do and so many good eats that there just isn’t enough time. Excellent food trucks are everywhere, but the Tex-Mex at Juan in a Million (portions are huge!) and BBQ at La Barbecue are absolutely worth the wait. Bar hopping on both on Rainey Street and the iconic Sixth Street is a must. For a true taste of Texas, the country music bar The White Horse cannot be missed! By boots before you go at Allen’s Boots and get ready to learn the two- step!
Dress: Mar Sandals: Stuart Weitzman Bag: Staud (old)
Now that the world is almost back to normal, my return to the office meant a return to practical but beautiful neutral heels. However, after being barefoot at home most of the time, I also wanted comfort. These elegant handcrafted in Italy Sarah Flint pumps managed to be both luxurious and comfortable with the extra padding and wider toe box. The leather is so soft! I chose the Perfect Pump 85 but there are lower heel heights. Although they may be a splurge, they will last forever and go with everything. Be sure to size up a half size and buy them at this link to save $50.
Heels: Sarah Flint
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is the newest observatory tower in Manhattan that provides a totally different adventure than the others with immersive, multisensory experiences, floor to ceiling mirrors and an outside bar. It’s conveniently located next to Grand Central in the middle of Manhattan, which allows for spectacular views of the Chrysler Building and even Central Park. My favorite experience was “Reflect” where a ton of round silver balloons drift through the air and the mirrored floors and ceilings create a dramatic effect. Just a few tips before going, the difference between the SUMMIT Ascent and Experience ticket is a short glass elevator ride that I personally don’t think is worth the additional $20; you will need to wear black shoe covers the whole time in order not to ruin the floors (stilettos not allowed); and it’s recommended to wear short/pants due to the floor mirrors. If you can purchase tickets an hour before sunset that would be ideal to see the City transform from day to dusk.
Spring is here in NYC which means it’s time to get back to exploring this incredible city. A perfect day in NYC includes good food, visiting art galleries and a bit of window shopping. First stop on my list was the Gagosian Gallery which exhibited Michael Heizer’s impressive monumental sculptures. Gagosian has various art galleries around the world and always has interesting exhibits.
Now on to the fashion… I am loving this new-to-me Colombian designer Leonor Rincón. These pants, top and belt are everything! The copper color of the pants are gorgeous and the top is super versatile. I’ll be wearing this outfit all summer!
Top & Pants: Leonor Rincón Shoes: Stuart Weitzman Bag: Staud (old)
This is the brand to know! Since 1978, the Colombian brand Pepa Pombo has created bold and vibrant knitwear. The details of the thread, pattern of weaving, embroidery, and finishings of each garment are unique and thoughtful. I especially love their accessories like this belt that has a handy pocket for stashing your cell phone or credit card.
Top & Belt: Pepa Pombo Skirt: Banana Republic Shoes: Kate Spade Bag: Kate Spade
I think I found the one! After all my village hopping in Colombia, I think I may have found my favorite town- Jericó. It’s colorful, traditional and has a rich cultural heritage. It is not yet very touristy so you can get a real feel of the local paisa lifestyle. Take a tour of the town in a tuk-tuk and learn about its interesting history. Stay just a couple of blocks from the main plaza at the El Despertar Hotel. Jericó is 4 hours away from Medellín so you will want to spend at least 2 nights- ideally 3.
Dress: Mar Sandals: Stuart Weitzman
One of Medellín’s hidden gems is the Egyptian palace in the center of the city. Fernando Estrada was Medellín’s first optometrist who greatly admired the Egyptian culture. After two trips to Egypt, he decided to create his own version of a temple at home in honor of his wife. Construction began in 1928 and became a family affair as two of Estradas’ 14 children brought back artifacts from Egypt to incorporate into the home.
Top & Pants: Zunilda Gutierrez Bag: Bibiana Hernandez Shoes: Ann Taylor
Happy Valentine/Galentine’s Day! Although it may be a Hallmark holiday, I can’t help appreciating a day that celebrates the love that is shared between all sorts of relationships- whether it be family, friends or a partner. Hope your day is filled with bubbles and chocolate!
Dress: Sail to Sable Shoes: Laura Cepeda
El Retiro is another stop in the village hopping tour around Medellín. It only takes about 40 minutes to arrive to this serene town with beautiful views, great restaurants and interesting art galleries. It’s known for its wood furniture manufacturing and you can readily view the amazing woodwork in the doorways and window frames around town. This is probably one of the easiest and quickest city escapes from Medellín.
Although Colombia has amazing cities like Medellin and Cartagena to visit, the colorful towns and villages make Colombia truly special. From the friendly people to relaxing vibes, these villages are a necessary escape from the bustling cities. Guatapé is one these must-visit towns about two hours away from Medellin. With its El Peñol (the big rock with approx. 700 steps to climb to the top) and zócalos (the decorative figures at the bottom of the buildings), Guatapé is a great place to go to for a hike, a traditional lunch and exploring its picturesque streets.
Known as the cradle of artisan ceramics in Colombia,, Carmen de Viboral (“El Carmen”) has upheld a tradition of ceramics for over a hundred years by passing it down from generation to generation. In the late 1990s, the ceramic industry in this small town was in a crisis as global competition offered lower pricing. Fortunately, with a bit of cultural investment, the tradition made a comeback and you can visit the local artisans painting their beautiful designs. Each piece is handmade and unique combining indigenous and Spanish traditions. Only about an hour from Medellin, El Carmen makes a great day trip to see the mosaic work and embedded dishes on everything from lamp posts to store fronts.
Dress: Mar Sandals: Ann Taylor (old)
There are many accommodation options in Phuket ranging from hostels to high end hotels. I highly recommend the adults only hotel The Shore at Katathani. The service is excellent and it has an amazing location right at Kata Noi Beach. It’s just a short taxi ride away from Patong and Kata. A seaview pool villa (especially the “in love” rooms) is worth the splurge.
Dress: Mar
Before there was Big Buddha, Wat Khao Rang was known for its huge golden sitting Buddha that was the first of its kind in Phuket. I fondly refer to this statue as “Big Buddha before there was Big Buddha.” It’s a beautiful and peaceful temple without that many tourists so it feels more genuine than the actual Big Buddha. .Wat Khao Rang is on the way up to the viewpoint at Rang Hill, which makes it the perfect stop before seeing the monkeys and taking in the spectacular views from the top.
Dress: Mar
Early in the 1800s, Phuket was the center for tin mining, attracting immigrants from all over the world including China and Malaysia. The influence on the architecture and culture of these immigrants can be seen in Phuket Old Town. They built various structures—temples, houses and shops—based on the designs of their home country. Walking around town, you can see brightly colored buildings based on Sino-Portuguese architecture. A great way to learn about the history of this area is by visiting the Chinpracha House., which is a private home from 1903 in the Sino-Portuguese style (be sure to ask the owner for a tour).
The majestic and enormous marble statue of Buddha in Phuket is an iconic landmark on the island that cannot be missed. Simply known as Big Buddha, construction began in 2004 and was completed in 2018. Its size and beauty are breathtaking plus the 360 views of the island from the top of the hills are magnificent. Be sure to come early to visit the Big Buddha without the crowds and to dress appropriately as it is a religious site.
After your visit you can stop by Wat Chalong, which is Phuket’s most important temple with a very interesting history. Built in 1837, the temple housed two monks that cared for the wounded using their knowledge of traditional herbal medicine during the rebellion against the Chinese tin miners. The temples served as a haven for those injured and seeking refuge from the ongoing rebellion. locals. Many people come to the temple to pray as it is believed that it is capable of helping miracles happen.
Dress: Mar Sandals: J. McLaughlin (old) Bag: Faithfull The Brand
Colorful, whimsical and unique, the brand CeliaB captures the fun and passionate side of fashion. The exaggerated silhouette on this puff-sleeved dress with the vibrant scalloped trim is spectacular. This dress easily catches the eyes of others and receives lots of compliments. This same style is available in other prints like this one. You can’t go wrong with any of the options!
Dress: CeliaB Shoes: Kate Spade
After two long years, I was finally able to travel back to one of my favorite European cities- Madrid. The city still has its vibrant energy, delicious tapas and diverse wines. Staying at the Principal Madrid Hotel was a great choice with its excellent central location, beautiful 7th floor terrace and spectacular service. If you can’t stay at the hotel, you should at least stop by to have a drink on its terrace (closed during the winter) or eat at its fantastic restaurant. I’m already planning my next visit to this wonderful city!
Dress: Mar Shoes: Kate Spade Bag: Kate Spade
Miami is an easy weekend getaway from NYC when in the search for sun, beach and a good time. The goodtime hotel opened in April 2020 and is co-owned by Pharrell Williams. With reasonable rates (keep in mind the rooms are micro sized), whimsical decor, and a location two blocks away from the beach, it’s a great option for a short Miami Beach stay.
Now on to the fashion…I cannot believe that there has not been more attention given to Charles Harbison’s collaboration with Banana Republic titled “Legacy of Joy.” It’s one of the best collaborations I have seen in some time- I adore every piece of the collection. It was hard to choose which color to purchase for this dress, but I ended up with my favorite color combination- pink and red.
Dress: BRxHarbison Sandals: Ann Taylor (old)
A MODO MIO is a Colombian brand whose name translates to “My Way.” They create unique pieces and use fashion as a catalyst for messages that reflect their philosophy. This long one shoulder vest tells everyone that your living life your way (a mi manera). I paired it with this amazing ruffle t-shirt that also discreetly states “A Mi Manera.”
Vest: A MODO MIO (knit version) Top: A MODO MIO Shorts: Express Boots: Schutz