Autumn in New York

This fall brought not one but two trips to New York City, and both felt like coming home. I can't believe it's already been 5 years since we moved out of Manhattan! Between celebrating my 40th birthday and sneaking in a quick girls’ getaway, I packed in some of my favorite meals, museum visits, and shopping along the Upper East Side. Here’s a roundup of where we ate, explored, and stayed — from the chicest tea service in town to cozy dinners and scenic strolls through Central Park.

Coats - I was eager to bring a couple favorite coats to NYC, including this camel car coat that is currently on sale under $250, this uber-fabulous burgundy shawl-collar coat that is $50 off with "Save50", my trusty old camel wrap coat that I've had for 6 years (new season version here), my much beloved black tailored coat that I love throwing over evening looks, and this jacquard statement coat that will be a go-to throughout the holidays.

Dresses - Surprisingly light on dresses, I only packed this silk wrap dress I've worn it on repeat this autumn (highly recommend!) and this velvet floral number as an option for my birthday dinner.

Sweaters - Cashmere is the name of the game this time of year, and I packed this burgundy turtleneck (such a steal!), this oversized cashmere crewneck ("Stacie15" for 15% off), this everyday favorite sweater in oatmeal, this chunky turtleneck, this classic cable knit, and this statement cardigan that I'm utterly obsessed with.

Tops - I cannot say enough good things about this sequined top! I wore it for my birthday dinner and can't wait to wear it to holiday parties all season long. You guys loved it when I posted about it last week, and there are only a few left now. If you're between sizes you'll likely want to size up.

Pants - Leather, Jacquard, and jeans - oh my! I packed a variety of pants for NYC including my favorite tailored jeans and brown leather pants (both are 15% off with "Stacie15"), as well as black jacquard trousers for evening, and easy denim for a museum day with our toddler son.

Bags - When I lived in NYC bags were so important, as I'd often be out all day and carry everything I could possibly need with me. This leather tote is a favorite for holding all the things (more colors here), and I also packed this plaid tote as my "personal item" for travel, even though we drove. When in the city I love a crossbody or hobo for hands-free meuseum hopping or shopping, and packed this saddle bag and this hobo. For my birthday dinner, I grabbed my favorite black suede bag that feels evening but can still hold all the essentials.

Shoes - I love traveling by car, as I throw all my favorite shoes in an XL boat and tote, which fits a ton including: my favorite heels in two colors ($111 off through midnight tonight!), my trusty old loafers for long days of walking, my favorite brown booties, and these oxblood flats that I wear on repeat! I also brought this bugundy slingbacks, which are a major compliment magnet.

Luggage - My old luggage has been looking pretty rough so I just got a new set from Bric's, including their carry-on and 30" checked bag in olive. That checked bag packs a TON.

Accessories - Scarf season is here and I'm either reaching for a big 140cm cashmere/silk shawl, or a cozy scarf like this. I bought these sunglasses on my first NYC trip and love the feminine take on a classic aviator style.

Keep scrolling for all of my favorite recommendations from my fall trips to NYC!

PACKING LIST:

Afternoon tea at Marjorelle with my friend Gina was such a treat — made even more special by the exquisite tea service by Dior. Every detail felt impossibly elegant, from the porcelain cups to the delicate pastries.

For my 40th birthday dinner, we went to Monkey Bar, a New York institution that oozes old-school glamour. The iconic murals, classic cocktails, and lively buzz made it the perfect spot to celebrate. Everything on the menu is delicious — just know that portions are generous. Don’t skip the carrot cake; it’s divine.

We also tried Café Commerce, which we loved for dinner but agreed might shine brightest as a leisurely lunch spot. For something sweet, Birley Bakery (just a short walk from our hotel) was an instant favorite. London’s famed bakery recently opened an outpost on the Upper East Side, and it’s the perfect stop before a stroll through Central Park. We went back multiple times for croissants and coffee.

Dinner at Chez Fifi was a highlight — impossibly chic interiors, a buzzy crowd, and food that’s downright addictive. I found out after our meal that friends of ours actually own the restaurant! It’s very hard to get into, but worth the effort. Order the steak frites and chocolate mousse and thank me later.

And of course, no NYC trip is complete without a visit to Sant Ambroeus (77th & Madison). I love ordering my coffee to drink right at the espresso bar — just like in Italy.

The Frick Museum remains my favorite museum in New York — timeless, serene, and full of treasures. It recently underwent a massive renovation, and the refreshed space is absolutely stunning.

We also visited the American Museum of Natural History with our son while my in-laws were in town. I wasn’t sure how much a not-quite-two-year-old would get out of it, but he loved the dinosaur and animal exhibits — truly magical to watch through his eyes.

Of course, no trip to New York is complete without a walk through Central Park. There’s something about the crisp fall air, the turning leaves, and the city skyline peeking through the trees that feels endlessly inspiring. We even snuck in a family photo session with our friend Kate McReynolds, our son skipped his nap so it was a bit wild but a special way to commemorate his first visit to NYC.

And then, there was shopping — naturally! Highlights included a visit to Ralph Lauren’s Madison Avenue Mansion (where I fell in love with a new bag), Hermès (dangerously close to our hotel), and previewing Louise Roe’s Crate Kids collaboration. I also popped into Bottega Veneta, Me + Em, Tuckernuck, and Ring Concierge — all favorites sprinkled along Madison Avenue.

We stayed at The Lowell, a boutique jewelbox on 63rd Street that several of our friends had raved about. The location couldn’t be better, and the interiors are beautifully appointed — classic Upper East Side charm with elegant touches everywhere. My favorite spot was their living room lounge, where you can curl up by the fireplace with a drink and unwind after a long day out.

That said, our stay wasn’t flawless. While the hotel is technically five-star, a few small details were off — from a faucet handle that came loose to a 40-minute wait for coffee at breakfast. Perhaps these were one-off issues, but at this price point, we’ll likely explore other hotels next time.