Uptown Chic

While cleaning out some magazines as part of my New Year's resolution to be more organized, I came across this fabulous home.  It's owned by Harry Slatkin and his family  and was featured in the August 2012 issue of Harper's Bazaar.  You may know them from their fabulous candle company but Harry is also one of the chic group who had the foresight to revive the Belstaff brand.  I am loving the mix of antiques and art and of course, all the shades of grey.  This one is definitely going in the file. 

Photos by Douglas Friedman

Belstaff on the Runway

One of the most exciting shows I attended during fashion week was Belstaff.  The Spring 2013 show was their first runway presentation since Martin Cooper has taken over as designer and it didn't disappoint.  The muted tones were a welcome respite after all the color elsewhere that week. There were definitely hints to the motorcycle jackets the company is known for but they were reinterpreted into buttery soft perforated leathers and smaller hardware details. If you can't wear the short shorts, you can always pick up one of the new bags or the platform sandals that I know many already have their eye on for spring.  It was a sophisticated and sexy show without being in your face and I am anxious to see the line evolve.  I actually sat next to new owner Harry Slatkin who was standing at his own show.  He was very excited to dust off this old brand and give it new life.  He also let me know that the new Madison Avenue Belstaff store had quietly opened that same day.  It was designed by Bill Sofield who also designs stores for Tom Ford.  Needless to say, the store is as chic as the clothes.  Happy Shopping. 

Belstaff

814 Madison Avenue

New York, NY 10065

The front row at Belstaff included Tommy and Dee Hilfiger, John Demsey of Estee Lauder and Hamish Boweles of Vogue. 

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Chic in Barbour

Barbour didn't invent oilcloth or waxed cotton coats but they sure did make them chic. What other company could lay claim to outfitting Steve McQueen and Queen Elizabeth?  I personally love the quilted versions and own the Ladies Flyweight Utility Jacket in dark stone.  The oil cloth coats tend to look a little boxy and unflattering on women unless you buy a belted option or add your own like Olivia Palermo. It really is the boys who look best in Barbour.  They are all over the Upper East Side this time of year and are my kryptonite but even the downtown boys look pretty cool in them too.  If you own one and live in New York, you might want to pull out because I hear it's going to rain the next few days.  Happy almost Spring!

I don't think all these styles are Barbour but they're close enough.

Photos from Barbour.  Other photos that were taken by a certain fashion blogger were taken down after his office told me that I violated his copyright on them.