Tag: Accessories

7 Chic French Designs to “Oh La La” Over this Holiday Season

Post author By Nicole Haddad
Post date December 9, 2021

As the holidays approach, design connoisseurs have more grounds to haunt their favorite shops without a twinge of guilt. It’s shopping in the spirit of giving, correct? Whether that giving might entail oneself is a discussion for another day. But this year, we are happy to note that Francophiles will be particularly excited. Emblem Paris—a collection of four French heritage brands—has recently opened its first U.S.-based store in Soho (171 Spring St #2fl).

The intimate boutique space—inspired by a chic jardin in a Parisian hȏtel particulier—showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the Emblem ateliers: Maison Taillardat, (the brand that tasked to create set pieces for Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette movie); Maison Craman-Lagarde, a marquetry specialist and master cabinetmaker; Vernaz & Filles, specialist in custom gold leaf work and historic restoration; and Manufacture des Emaux de Longwy, the oldest ceramic factory in France.

While we would love to focus on all four houses, we decided to spotlight our favorite holiday gifts from Emaux de Longwy. The history-laden brand’s enchanting savoir-faire when it comes to cloisonné enamel on faience, or glazed ceramic ware, is completely enamoring.

Boule Coloniale + Bougie (Lemon Insect Collection) by Michaël Cailloux
Inspired by 17th century still life’s and Art Nouveau naturalism, Michaël Cailloux created a fertile body of work that includes these finessed beauties.

Pot à Bougie by Nicolas Lequeux
Nicolas Lequeux’s “Art Decool” collection showcases stylized and geometric patterns inspired by the Art Deco period, laden with warm colors that recall the vibrancy of the summer months. It notes Emaux de Longwy’s first collaboration with the designer.

Chou Vase by Pierre Gonalons
With its swirl of sherbet hues and chic French craftsmanship, the Chou vase by Pierre Gonalons is a delightful gift for art and design lovers alike. Fun fact: The vase is currently on exhibit at the Hotel de Sully (a historic mansion) in Paris, making the gift even more splurge-worthy.

City of Stars by Lukas Works
City of Stars evokes the romantic essence of art and its creation, paying direct homage to the magic of Paris and its stars. The artists’ hope was to promote the people who tirelessly fight to inspire us all through the beauty of their work despite the pitfalls of their job.

The Little Prince Oeufs
“The Little Prince” and “The Little Prince and the Fox” decorative eggs not only make for chic stocking stuffers but they pay homage to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beautiful, poetic tale, immortalizing it forever in enamel.

Decorative Candles
From left to right: The falling snow on a midnight blue background that adorns the Darksnow candle by Eric Hibelot was inspired by Japanese prints, specifically those of Hasui Kawase; The perfect gift for those who appreciate enamels, the Heritage candle features a traditional display of flowers enhanced by Longwy gold; The Happy Face candle by Nicolas de Waël is alluring in its simple, joyous nature.

Bishop Stool
The hand-enameled Bishop stool, which India Mahdavi recently festooned in a gorgeous pattern, is available in two colorways: Apple Blossom and PrimaDonna.

Tags Accessories, Ceramics, decor, Emaux de Longwy, Emblem Paris, Francophile, French Design, Gift Guide, handmade accessories, Holiday Gift Guide Luxury, holiday gifts, home decor, Vases

Fashion Featured NYC Uncategorized

Fashion is Back: Try These Summer Pieces

Post author By Marley Gifford
Post date June 22, 2021

It has been a tumultuous year and a half for many. (By many I mean everyone). It seemed as though the world was devoid of color. Now that life is accelerating toward normalcy, the celebration of fashion is at an all-time high. This summer, fashion is back and better than ever. Here are our picks for what you’ll see trending on the streets this season.

Tops

Another silhouette we are seeing everywhere this summer season? Halterneck tanks. The classic lines accentuate any figure.

When life gives you lemons, wear them! This linen-rayon button-down is the perfect piece to throw over your bikini or tuck into a skirt. Furthermore, fresh fruit prints have been seen plastered on every clothing piece possible this summer, so join in on the fun.

Bottoms

Three criteria for trendy summer pants: wide leg, printed, and filled with color. These Zara pants will have heads turning wherever you wear them. (Note the accompanying halterneck top!)

Hang up your denim hot pants to dry this summer, and swap them out for the much more practical, (more formal?) oversized alternative. These flattering mom shorts are the way to go on the beach, out to brunch, or at work, dress code permitting.

Dissh “A VENICE SHORT ESMERALDA” in Blue

Extra! Extra! Fashion is back! Maxi skirts are back! Marry your maxi with a great white sneak or cowgirl boot for a modern take. This gingham number from Free People gets it right.

Shoes

Cowgirl boots are the seasonally confused underdog of the summer. Pair a cherry red or white pair with anything in your summer wardrobe. These summer staples look best with your best frilly dress. Think Shirley Temple meets Dolly Parton.

Orange really is the new black, according to these lace-up sandals. These ballerina-esque kicks are sure to wow -and are more versatile than you might think.

We have Yeezy to thank for this next footwear sensation; the ugly-cute foam slide. These Vogue-approved slippers are sure to be seen everywhere this summer.

Mesh Beach Comfy Anti-Slip Pillow Slides

Accessories

We promised this summer would be a colorful one! Anything chunky, plastic-y, and fun will pass this trend test. Susan Alexandra is one accessory designer who has been a trailblazer for this trend. Most importantly, all of the brand’s pieces are made by hand in NYC.

Susan Alexandra *Make Your Own* Spells Necklace

Fashion is back, and so are trucker hats. Take a page out of Paris Hilton’s book and don a trucker hat this summer. Throw one of these bad boys over your beach hair and become an instant Coolgirl. Surely you’ll want to pick one from the trucker hat pioneer, Von Dutch.

Dig up those old canvas bags you’d get with your subscriptions to your favorite publications! Not only are these bags practical, they’re on fire this summer, and store so much.

Fashion is back, so happy summer and happy styling!

For more style from Downtown Magazine, click here.

Tags a summer day, Accessories, bottoms, clothing, downtown summer, endless summer, Fashion, hats, Necklaces, skirts, summer, Summer Fashion, tops, trends

Culture

Top Features to Consider when Buying a Pocket Knife

Post author By DTMag Intern
Post date December 21, 2020

Pocket knives are a must-have for people who enjoy outdoor activities. They feature compact designs, and they are easy to carry around, and they come in handy in numerous situations. Different manufacturers bring their products to the consumers, and not all of them have the best gentleman’s pocket knife in their collections. Getting the best requires one to pay attention to the fundamental features and additional ones that improve the durability and functionality of the pocketknife, among other characteristics.

Certain factors ought to be considered before a pocketknife is bought. The primary element that anyone buying the knife should remember is the tasks that the knife is likely to perform. Anticipating usage makes selection a breeze as one can focus on the features that will handle the different chores effortlessly. Here are some of the other factors that one cannot overlook when buying a pocketknife.

Design

Pocket knives should be small, easy to carry. The design dictates the size of the knife and the weight. Models that feature compact construction are a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and scouts. The design should allow for folding and other mechanisms that help reduce the size. The artistry should be top-notch but not increase the bulk of the piece. The design must also appeal to the eye to make the unit both a functional and an aesthetic piece.

2. Materials

The materials the manufacturer uses for the different parts of the knife should be hardwearing to guarantee longevity. Comfort is another aspect to keep in mind when assessing the materials used. The blade material ought to be rust-resistant and sturdy to ensure the durability of the knife. The handle material and shape should offer the utmost comfort to the user, especially those who use the knives for an extended period.

3. Number of blades

Some units have a single blade, while others have multiple for different uses. The choice between a pocketknife with many blades and that with only one is a matter of personal preference. Also, the purpose of the knife will help dictate which number of blades is appropriate. Additional blades make the unit versatile, and it can be relied upon to deliver on more tasks than those with a single blade.

4. Weight and size

The mass and dimensions of the pocketknife are features that cannot be assumed. The size determines the tasks that it can handle without any hassle or accidents. Weight, on the other hand, dictates how long one can use the knife before they get tired. The size and weight are crucial factors to consider as they influence storage and duration of use.

5. Accessories

Pocket knives come with accessories that help improve their functions and lifespan. A carrying pouch is among the add-ons that most people consider. Lubricants, oils, and cleaning materials are among the other accessories that one must think about when buying a pocketknife.

The cost of the knife one is interested in is a critical factor that will affect choice. Having a budget is the best place to start before the shopping phase.

Tags Accessories, gentleman's guide, pocket knife

Fashion Lifestyle

The Guide for Picking a Wedding Gown

Post author By Downtown Magazine
Post date December 31, 2019

Welcome to the world of bridal fashion. After your engagement, you’ve been pondering about the perfect wedding gown. Choosing the right color, style or design can be a challenge to most people.

But not anymore!

Here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect wedding gown

Research Beforehand

Getting the perfect wedding gown takes time. Do your research, real weddings and Pinterest might be a good starting point.

Look for a gown that fits your body type and tone. For instance, if you’re athletic with a flat chest, search for a similar build model.

You’ve got a perfect idea of what you want your gown to look like. It’s time to accessorize it. Choose a Celine bag that’s matches your wedding outfit.

Have a Realistic Budget

Setting and sticking to a wedding budget guarantees the success of the event. Before you pin the diamond-encrusted gowns, take a look at your budget.

Not only does the budget narrow down your choices but it also hones your expectations in the process.

Carefully Choose Your Boutique

Don’t walk into any boutique you come across. Most of them will not have a lot of options to choose from and try on.

If possible, go to a specialist’s boutique for a more excellent choice and fantastic shopping experience. When you’re happy and confident, the entire exercise will be satisfying and memorable. It’ll stay with you forever.

When choosing a boutique, go for one that makes you feel special. Choosing a wedding dress is among the expensive purchases in a lifetime, the boutique should appreciate this fact.

Try on the Wedding Dresses

It’s advisable to try some dresses on before deciding the ones to buy. However, be mindful of the number of gowns you try on.

For instance, opting for three dresses might not give you a valuable comparison. Alternatively going for 15 wedding gowns might end up confusing you. If possible, try four to seven dresses.

Conclusion

It’s not easy to choose a perfect wedding gown. You’ll have several considerations to make. For instance, is the fabric okay, does it fit among other factors?

However, this article offers respite to those shopping for a gown. Follow this advice, and you’ll be sure of getting a wedding gown that makes you feel secure and confident about the purchase.

Tags Accessories, bag, bridal fashion, bridal prep, bride, celine bag, diamond-encrusted, dress, engagement, gowns, purse, wedding budget, wedding dress

Featured Living

Give a Little Gift this Holiday Season

Post author By Grace Capobianco
Post date December 14, 2019

The holiday season can be overwhelming for many reasons. Prepare ahead of time maybe even shop this year for next. If you are looking for personalized gifts, from custom design scarfs to one of a kind wine sets, that anyone will appreciate we have it for you.

We have done the research, here you will find some ideas we’ve discovered for the special person in your life.

Show your appreciation to your hairstylist, teacher, best friend, in-law, babysitter, hard to, please boss, maybe someone who is there for you each and every day, someone who makes your life just a little easier or for the loves in your life.

The Downtown team wants to make your gift-giving more personal and unique this year.

Talsam is the ultimate wearable, a technology-enabled fashion accessory that is beautifully designed, personalized and easy to use. Talsam’s jewelry allows users to communicate wirelessly through Bluetooth-enabled semi-precious stone charms near or far. Loved ones can send text messages, videos, voice notes, photos, and animated emojis via Talsam’s exclusive app, and the charm lights up and gently vibrates when a message is received.

We are in love Capsul’s with this all-new birthstone collection, which includes new infinity-shaped birthstone cuffs and rings. Available with Swarovski crystals for each month, making them the perfect personalized gift for any occasion!

Created by their in-house artist, this silk square by Echo is inspired by the architectural details of Grand Central Station. This New York hub bustles at holiday time, connecting people during the most magical and festive time of the year. This original painting incorporates the most iconic elements of Grand Central: The clock, the ceiling, and the windows. It makes a beautiful gift for that special someone this season.

BLACKBARN Shop celebrates its internationally sourced products from talented artisans around the world with a focus on Spain, where furniture manufacturer Sol & Luna operates out of Madrid. With a selection of the company’s most elegant leather-bound pieces.

A timeless accessory from Cos for the cooler season. Designed from leather, wool, and cotton with a cozy cashmere lining, these gloves have been reimagined in a winter palette.

The Stainless Steel Cube is a study in minimalist design. We fell madly in love Rò Home, and more so with This five-sided accent presents a simple, aesthetically pleasing form that subtly reflects its surroundings. A clean, modern fit for you home or office.

Mon beau Sapin, now comes in a dark green color adorned with a fir bough decorated in white and gold. Its generous, characteristic smell of balsam fir, slightly resinous, slowly guides us towards a reassuring forest. This candle, with its specific wintery enveloping fragrance, brings the finishing touch to the joyful holiday mood and memories past. Can you smell the fragrance from here?

We like to be unique and think outside of the box. We found this CellArt’s Effervescence Divine Limited Edition collection, Le Seau à Champagne – Sparkling Wood a one-of-a-kind 3-pieces Champagne bucket reserved to the grand connoisseur and the refined aesthete. Gift, or if you are like us we want this for ourselves!

The bucket body is made of a selection of dark to chocolate-brown rich black walnut wood externally glazed with an immaculate ink-black sparkling lacquer; a stainless steel mirror interior stand, artfully designed, allow your Champagne bottles, Magnums, or any great vintage of white wine, to cool down in ice and cold water with all due reverences to their labels.

We wish you a Happy Holiday Season!

Tags Accessories, candles, champagne bucket, gloves, home decor, jewelry, leather-bound pieces., scarf, technology-enabled fashion

Fashion Featured Living

Downtown’s Holiday Gift Guide 2019

Post author By Downtown Magazine
Post date November 27, 2019

For the past 10 years, our editors have scoured the planet to bring to you our holiday favs. Each week, we will be posting a few ideas to help with your holiday shopping throughout the new year. Stay Tuned!

Give your feet the gift of comfort with our Editor in Chief’s favorite pick this year – better materials, better design, carries through to better factories and shipping methods. AllBirds think that our planet deserves better. Less waste and pollution. More thoughtfulness and accountability.

Holiday Gift Guide 2019 — Allbirds Runner

Furniture by MGBW: Often referred to as the masters of modern home furnishings, co-founders Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams bring the perfect blend of business and creative energy to our brand. “Make a statement during the holidays and year-round with sculptural pieces that add pops of color and a hint of sparkle.”
—Bob Williams

Krankz Audio MAXX headphones are a must-have in headphones. They are a go-to for the audiophile. Krankz headphones have a clear and powerful sound. Each pair has a built-in microphone and automatic call notification for easily switching between music audio and phone calls when paired to your smartphone.

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide — Parker Tote

Our Editor in Chief swears by The Parker Tote. The polished, black and gold tote transforms into a fully padded backpack with two hideaway straps. The roomy interior organizer section easily holds a 15.6″ laptop, a notebook, and a full complement of daily necessities, and has a back panel that slides over luggage handles. So whether you’re going to work, traveling, or just exploring the city for a day, this tote/backpack has you covered.

Unlike other tequilas, Villa One sources 100% blue weber agave from both the Highland and Lowland regions of Jalisco, Mexico. This unique combination of agave flavors combines herbaceous, earthy Lowland notes with the sweeter, fruity notes of Highland agave, resulting in a distinct, rounded profile.

“Nick Jonas and I share a love for tequila and we wanted to do something really special and also really accessible. Our partner is Stoli, and the product is from an artisanal distillery in Tequila, Mexico that has one of Mexico’s most famous distillers. We are so proud of this collaboration.” –John Varvatos

Founded in 1940 by Murray Greenberg, Murray’s Cheese is proud to be a Greenwich Village tradition and part of the neighborhood’s rich food history. Murray’s Cheese‘s Cheese of the Month Club is for the classic cheese lovers and cheese newbies. Whether you’re just diving into the delicious world of fromage or you’re looking to get your hands on some timeless favorites, this rotating collection of approachable and iconic cheeses is one snackable selection that’s guaranteed to please any palate.

Moët & Chandon is thrilled to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Moët Impérial, an important milestone in the extraordinary journey of a global icon of celebration. Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut 150th Anniversary Limited Edition Bottle & Gift Box Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut was first created in 1869, named Impérial in honor of Napoleon, a close friend of the Champagne House’s Moët family.

Hourglass, the cruelty-free beauty brand, is known for its innovation and commitment to reinventing luxury cosmetics. The complexion, color, and skincare are crafted to be undetectably transformative while effortless to apply. Hourglass gives you the ultimate collection of vegan brushes. This set includes 17 ultra-soft pieces designed to enhance the complexion, cheeks, and eyes, including four exclusive brushes. Made from high-grade, PETA-approved Taklon bristles, the collection is enclosed in a protective vegan-leather case.

Since 1987, Jonas Studio’s goal has been simple-to-construct visionary pieces that reflect a signature style. The key to their design process is an appreciation for evolving lifestyles, tied to a desire to tap into Manhattan’s vivacious energy–the perfect gift this holiday.

For wine lovers, we choose a few special wines this year. Sbragia Family Vineyards winemaker Adam Sbragia continues his family’s legacy in Dry Creek Valley, launching his own brand, Home Field Red Blend. Produced from the 2016 vintage, the debut wine is crafted from five grape varieties grown in six different vineyards. Perfectly priced and superb for any dinner party!

Another favorite is Spottswoode Cabernet 2017. Great vineyard sites are rare, and part of defining them is their ability to ripen fruit that allows for a consistently extraordinary wine. We fell in love with this delicious Spottswoode Cabernet, a must for the holiday season or anytime.

Knours is an innovative brand that addresses the link between the changes in hormones and our skin to help achieve healthy skin wellness. Knours Starter Kit is a perfect stocking stuffer. Be sure to pick one up for all year long.

Makeup that empowers, a prestige beauty brand rooted in empowerment, REALHER was co-founded by beauty industry veterans Megan Merid and Bill Xiang. We love cruelty free–just one of our Publisher’s favs. Get the limited sturdy, metallic, rose-gold tote that includes day-to-day essentials. Perfect for the makeup lover!

See More

Downtown’s Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide

Downtown’s Holiday Gift Guide 2019 For Him

The Winter Box: A Collection of Tips, Gadgets, and Accessories for Men This Winter

“Greener Fashion and Greener Future” ZAFUL 2019 Fashion Panel & Charity Sale