Combining style and wellness, New York City is always in fashion
WORDS: MICHELLE DARLOW PHOTOS: GETTY
If there was ever a city that didn’t need an introduction, it would be New York City. As soon as you see that towering Manhattan landscape, you’ll instantly feel like you’re in a movie scene, and ready to embrace your inner Carrie Bradshaw. Our trip started in style with flights in United Airlines’ United Polaris business class cabin. Treated to luxury beauty products and blankets from Saks Fifth Avenue on board, we felt like A-listers before our holiday had even begun.
Feeling more refreshed than expected after an eight-hour flight, we checked into the iconic Loews Regency New York hotel on Park Avenue, a two-minute walk from Central Park. Home of the famous “power breakfast” – where the city’s high flyers have been starting their day since the 1970s – the Loews Regency has a business vibe, but with a touch of flair. With its Art Deco-themed suites, and the Regency Bar & Grill, it’s the perfect spot for dinner and cocktails. There’s also a salon, spa and gym on site, so it ticks all the boxes for a trip where looking fabulous is high on the agenda.
SHOPPING IN STYLE
If you’re here for those famous shops, strut straight to Madison Avenue between East 57th and East 86th Streets, home to the Ralph Lauren, Hermès and Dolce & Gabbana flagship stores.
If spending money here is out of your budget, window shopping in Hèrmes is worth it just for moseying around the stunning shop alone – it truly is like a work of art. Further up, the long strip is home to quirky, more affordable brands like Still Here, which sells amazing painted jeans.
MODERN MASTERPIECE
There are so many amazing art galleries in New York, but we made a beeline for the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), renowned for its large rooms filled with famous Van Gogh, Monet and Matisse paintings. An exhibition running at the time we visited was Spirit Movers, a showcase of works exploring the African diaspora co-curated by British fashion designer Grace Wales Bonner.
Eating here is also a must. The Bar Room at the museum’s two Michelin star restaurant, The Modern, serves up memorable cooking fitting of its location, along with an award-winning wine list. The caviar hotdog had to be ordered – and it was exceptional.
