Seasonal Stripes

My parents are coming into town this weekend and I’m looking forward to packing our schedule full of fabulously festive NYC activities from Handel’s Messiah to Christmas Markets, Bergdorf’s holiday windows to trying to get into Rolfs. (I’m thinking 2pm on Friday is our best bet?)

While I love getting dressed up in festive attire (see this post), there’s a lot to be said for pieces that feel seasonally appropriate but don’t have the be put away on Dec 26th. I picked up this striped cotton sweater from La Ligne in Net-a-porter’s big sale and even though it’s a resort piece it can work for “everyday holiday” when paired with the right items. (A teddy coat and matching red bag in December, and ivory flowy pants and sandals on a warm weather getaway in Jan!) My coat is old J.Crew but there are several “new with tags” available on ebay: size small here, medium here and here, large here.

A few more favorites from the Net-a-Porter sale (that would make excellent gifts!) include my favorite espadrilles (currently 60% off in several colors!), several pretty Hunting Season bags, and Rebecca de Ravenel earrings (these are especially amazing!).

If you find yourself in Gramercy this weekend, here are three festive restaurant recommendations for if/when you can’t get into Rolf’s:

Boucherie (Union Square) – a classic French bistro with a great little happy hour is decked out for the holidays with a 18 foot tree and garlands hung from the eves, mirrors, you name it! I love meeting friends here for a drink because they have a wonderful burger that’s only $13 before 7pm.
Pete’s Tavern – The decor is rather kitchy but New York’s oldest continuously operating bar has a unique historic tie to Christmas, as it’s believed that O Henry wrote “The Gift of the Magi” while dinking here.
Bar Jamon – I’ve been coming here for years and it’s just as romantic and cozy as ever. Perfect for a date night when you want an intimate space and to explore Spanish wines. The Christmas decor is minimal but the space feels very festive.

Outfit Details:

la ligne sweater // denim // pumps // bag

coat is old J.Crew but there are several “new with tags” available on ebay: size small here, medium here and here, large here.