1. New York Stories – Strand Bookstore, $11.95; 2. Revlon Kiss Me Coral Lipstick – Drugstore.com, $7.99; 3. Statement Tough Chain Bracelet – The Limited; 4. Knit Beret – NYC Street Vendor, $10; 5. Green Floral Blouse – H&M; 6. Vintage French Coin Medallion – Gift; 7. Time Out Shortlist New York 2011 – Amazon.com, $10.36; 8. Cio Bella Thabata Two Tone Boot – DSW, $99.95; 9. Front Pleat Silk Blouse – Banana Republic
Every explorer requires a certain set of tools for their travels. For some, this means a Bowie knife and thorough knowledge of the constellations. For me, it’s more likely the perfect bag and thorough knowledge of affordable attractions. I’d like to say my steamer trunks are bursting at the seams with chic labels in svelte sizes, but the truth is I packed in a New York minute throwing in everything at arm’s length.
For my recent trip to New York, I left behind notions of hot heels and Gossip Girl getups (after all, they have drivers!). Cold weather wandering in the city requires sturdy boots and wooly layers, which I lightened up with airy blouses and the pop of a coral lip. I layered on baubles and bracelets for a bit of sparkle under all that bundling. When in absolute need of a sassier touch, I traded in dungarees for a skirt and the Swiss dot tights I’ve been going through all season (warning: they run terribly but I can’t stop buying them). Armed with my trusty 2011 Shortlist, and of course my photo snapping and scribbling supplies, I was NYC ready.
I’ve recently been obsessed with this photo of Georgia May Jagger looking supremely chic and elevating the gap-toothed pout. Not sure what is under that stole, but girlfriend is ready for a voguish voyage. I’m vowing to pull off bobby sox with heels, and one day to await my town car on a throne of Louis trunks. Until then, the MetroCard serves me just fine!
Jessica Mlinaric founded Urban Explorer in 2010 to inspire curious travelers by highlighting history, culture, and hidden gems in Chicago and beyond. She is the author of ‘Secret Chicago’ and ‘Chicago Scavenger.’ Jessica has visited 20+ countries and 30+ U.S. states. She has more than 16 years of experience as a marketing strategist and works as a freelance writer and photographer.
