Gräf & Lantz

Posted by Jen Yu | Posted on 23-08-2010

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Gräf & Lantz, is a Los Angeles based design studio founded by Holger Gräf and Daniel Lantz. Thier goal is to create products that are luxurious, aware and functional. Gräf & Lantz has chosen to primarily use high quality 100% merino wool felt which they have produced and imported from Germany. By combining felt with other natural materials they highlight its deep rich colors and unique texture. Want a handsome new take on a classic overnighter? The journey starts here. This duffel is availible in two natural color blends of sturdy wool felt with hand turned leather. Naturally, it’s roomy enough to carry everything you need, (and everything you want), for a long weekend getaway. With a handle drop of 15” this duffel can be carried comfortably over the shoulder too. Available in grey and brown.

Android Homme Woven Duffel

Posted by Jen Yu | Posted on 21-08-2010

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Android Homme is rooted in streetwear culture, but their line of shoes and accessories all have a streak of high fashion running through them. This is the perfect bag for quick weekend trip! Visit Android Homme’s website to see their entire line of shoes and accessories. Retail $250

I Heart the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas

Posted by Jen Yu | Posted on 21-08-2010

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Where to stay: I decided to try the new Mandarin Oriental during my most recent trip to Las Vegas this past week. Since it’s been over a decade of “attending the MAGIC Convention”, this is probably only the second time I’ve stayed in a hotel in Vegas without a casino! Located in the City Centre and situated next to Aria, gamblers can still walk over to Aria’s casino or shop at the nearby lux stores (Louis Vuitton, Dior, etc.).

This by far is the closest thing to a “boutique hotel experience” that you’ll find…I would definitely recommend staying here, the service is impeccable, the decor is beautiful, and the ambience including the three pools on the 8th floor, are amazing! This is only the third Mandarin property I’ve stayed at, but it continues to be one of my favorite hotels in the world…and let’s not forget the world class spa service available. Loves!!!

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J.W. Hulme Sporting Originals Collection

Posted by Jen Yu | Posted on 14-06-2010

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J.W. Hulme looks to their archives to release a collection of true original classics in two distinct options: Traveled and Untraveled. The traveled collection are stoned-washed and sun soaked to give it that traditional used look as if it had been through various corners of the world for many years. The Untraveled versions are unstoned-washed and are pieces that are waiting to build new stories with its owner. The collection consists of a briefcase, duffle bags, a messenger bag, and a carry-on suitcase in both options. They are made from natural durable canvas and warm rich leather. It also features 10 oz. water resistant high count cotton marine canvas, that’s complemented with a full grain water resistant leather trim. Other details include a matte nickel finish on trimmings and a heavy gauge zippers for reliable closure. As always, J.W. Hulme products are made in America and is guaranteed for life

Nanette Lepore for the Thompson Hotels…

Posted by Jen Yu | Posted on 02-06-2010

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Above Allen is one of my favorite lounges and Hot Spots in NYC…the destination just amped up the style quotient a notch with a new collab by Nanette Lepore, who’s designing uniforms for this Thompson hotel’s lounge. The “LBD” looks super cute…and it look will also be rocked by the staff at the Hollywood Roosevelt in LA and the Donovan House in D.C..

Thompson LES: 190 Allen Street (at East Houston); 212-460-5300

#MiamiDebauchery….

Posted by Jen Yu | Posted on 17-05-2010

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Where to stay: The trip started off low-key…much needed girls weekend…we chose the W Hotel South Beach. The hotel itself is beautiful, the infinity pool is definitely impressive and I love the “Whatever, Whenever” feature…guests can indulge in whatever their “wish” is and the experiential offerings literally cover just about anything. I’ll let mine remain “private”….lol.

I’ll have to admit, the service isn’t “amazing” during the weekends…crazy packed and the pool staff is NOT flexible or accommodating in any way shape or form. I would recommend reserving a cabana or bed if your plan is to be poolside - waking up at 7am to save chairs isn’t really my idea of a vacation. The W is situated directly on the beach, so that’s always an option. The food is pretty good, little over-priced, but it’s Miami so what do you expect?? The rooms themselves are beautiful - two flat screens, large bathrooms, etc. Not really understanding why they don’t have the Heavenly Beds in the rooms, that’s just odd and not very Starwood of them! Also, keep in mind…while they have wireless available in the rooms, you can’t use it on the balcony or poolside (not business friendly).

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ACE Hotel: New York City

Posted by Jen Yu | Posted on 30-04-2010

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Let me first start this off by saying that the ACE Hotel NYC is a great backdrop for photo shoots…the hotel lobby, the event space, staircase, and loft, all make for great set-ups! The vibe is very rock/hipster/camping/Americana etc…I’m also a big fan of their bar scene and the drinks are amazing. However, after having just stayed there for the night, I wouldn’t be the first to recommend this hotel for anything more than the scene, a drink, or even the occasional Breslin Burger, from time to time.

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Where not to stay: The service here is horrible…clearly that is not what they are known for. This is definitely not my idea of “lux” by any means. I’ve now seen all their rooms, and although the loft suite is the largest in the hotel, the amenities are really underwhelming. Considering I had to call maintenance to repair my tv, dialed housekeeping for five hours to get a set of towels, then back to maintenance to fix the shower (at 1am) AND room service forgot utensils?? I’d have to say it gets a NO GO on my list of where to stay…I could probably go IN a bit more, but i’ll give it a rest since I happen to like the management staff AND “the list” at Breslin is official. Just have the Lamb Burger and call it day…

Where to eat: Sagaponack Bar & Grill NY

Posted by Jen Yu | Posted on 27-04-2010

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Where to eat: Stumbled into Sagaponack, this cute restaurant for brunch over the weekend…really loved the “Hamptons” decor and surprisingly the food was really great! There really isn’t much of a selection around Flatiron district for a great breakfast, so this spot is definitely going into my rotation!

What to eat: Mini muffins and biscuits, Eggs Benedict on brioche, Chicken Apple Sausage, French Toast with Fresh Fruit and whipped cream…yummmm!!!

4 West 22nd St. btw 5th/6th Ave.

Cheap Eats: Westville East NYC

Posted by Jen Yu | Posted on 26-04-2010

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Where to eat: Another one of my favorite spots is Westville East…this remains on my weekly rotation!! Everything on the menu is great.

What to eat: Since the entire menu is phenomenal…I’ll just highlight a few of my favs from the standard menu (although their specials are all yummy): Corn on the cob (with lime), Beer Battered Cod Fish & Chips, Grilled Hot Dogs, Grilled Chicken Reuben Rye, and the Westville Cobb Salad. The market sides are delicious…a few recommendations: Artichoke Hearts with Parmesan, Grilled Asparagus, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and the Sweet Potato Fries! You must try the blended mint-lemonade - one of their specialties. As for dessert?? Homemade oreo cookies, carrot cake and cobblers are just a few items…AMAZING!

173 Avenue A - East Village, Manhattan

Dunhill Chasis Holdall

Posted by Jen Yu | Posted on 23-04-2010

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One of Dunhill’s latest drops is the Chassis Holdall, which showcases their patented carbon fiber effect leather, which is both water and scratch resistant, and looks as sleek as it is functional. The long zip opening leads to dual buckle closures, which allow the bag to be made more or less compact depending on how much interior space is needed. The interior is finished in suede with multiple pockets. It all makes for a classy and highly functional option when it comes to a weekend bag.