I think it is one of my favorite cities during the holidays as well! All of the decor, shopping, and taking in the sights. Even more so when there is snow!
When I was in Crockett & Jones the day after Thanksgiving, I had a nice talk with manager Kevin Hill. I'm a big fan of their Scotch Grain shoes.....and just about everything else they make.
Muffy, could you please answer my question from your last post? Basically, I'd like to know if it's a good idea to have a Barbour Liddesdale tailored. If it is, I need to bring it in by tomorrow so I can wear it when we go up to the winter home on Friday!
@Flo - Not yet! I am slightly concerned that they are too narrow and pointy in the toes. But they are very beautiful. I might try them on again next week.
@W&L - I would ask your tailor as it would be nice to be able to wear a jacket left to you by your uncle. And to answer your other question, yes my newer Liddesdales have the open sleeves.
@Anonymous 7:55 I too faced the same conundrum while in grad school. I went with a non-leather option, the Orvis Battenkill canvas and leather briefcase. Has laptop and tablet sleeves, plenty of room for books, etc., great leather details and a rich green, durable canvas body. At $250 it's no "inexpensive" option, but Orvis stands behind their products, will repair it for life, and you'll stand out from the sea of messenger bags and TNF backpacks! To boot, the bag will transition well into your "adult life". Just my two cents!
Thanks for the photos, as always. I love New York City at Christmas, and agree that it's a fantastic place for walking. My aunt and I strolled up Madison to do some shopping at Christmas last year and were bowled over by shops, great and small, still selling beautiful, truly luxurious goods--spurring my aunt to remark, "I've been living in the suburbs for way too long."
To the commenter looking for an inexpensive laptop bag: I, in the same situation, had Wm. J. Mills custom-make a bag, in colors of my choice and with a narrower handle than the standard one offered on their site, which I far prefer. The whole process was easy and friendly and took under 2 weeks--and six months or so later, I'm still very satisfied. You can see the bag here: http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m53w9p9ow11qzofvvo1_1280.jpg
@Anonymous 7:55 looking for a laptop bag--not sure what size laptop you have, but a couple of years ago Coach made a really nice looking bag that didn't scream Coach, you can frequently find these new on Ebay for $75 and up. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Coach-Voyage-Canvas-Messenger-Tote-Bag-Red-/221167943012?pt=US_CSA_MWA_Briefcases&hash=item337ea2fd64
Red wasn't the only color either, they also came in a dark blue, not quite royal, not quite navy. Good luck in your search!
May I ask a question about "country clothes" vs. "city clothes"?
As lovely as you look in the photos, ladies of my mother's generation might suggest that the fabrics you are wearing are not city-appropriate. When she would go down to NYC from Greenwich to meet my father for lunch, I remember that her look was distinctly different from what she might wear to lunch with friends locally.
Personally, I think the distinction is waning and it seems that you do as well. Would just like to hear your thoughts.
You know, I did think that was you taking a photo of Orvis on 44th street the other day! I work right down the block there. I was going to say hello, but didn't want to risk sounding like a "fanboy".
I'm really glad that you had an opportunity to visit Crockett and Jones. I wholeheartedly recommend their shoes. They last for a very, very long time, are a joy to wear and develop great character with age. Their Scotchgrain and Dainite range is indestructible; and their loafers and Chelsea boots are timeless. They are not just shoes, but highly-crafted products made with a lot of care and pride. They're definitely in my top three UK products list.
Thanks for your great blog and for sharing the very best of classic and sustainable American lifestyle and products. It's lovely to make new discoveries about the States from 'across the pond'.
Love your picture of the lions, Patience and Fortitude, in front of the NYC Library. They seem so appropriate for your blog. What is the make of that tweed jacket of yours?
@WRJ and Muffy I too can say that the Wm. J. Mills & Co are great! I have had many of their tote bags since I was little. They have held up very well despite being dragged on the pavement by 5 year-old hands uptown to Penn and Grand Central Station to leave the city for the weekend. I also spent most of my summers, until recently, out on the North Fork of Long Island where the bags are from. It is such a special place to me.
@Muffy. Hi :). If the shoes are a bit narrow, ask the manager if (s)he can put them on stretching lasts for a couple of weeks.
During gait and posture therapy I had some foot manipulation to straighten my feet out. This made them change shape and stretch half a size. The C and J team kindly stretched all of my shoes and they now fit perfectly.
Another alternative is to check out equivalents in the men's range. They have a more rounded-toe than the women's versions. I am a UK 6.5/ US 9, so I can wear both, but I have to go down a size or a size-and-a-half. The guy's shoes don't look too bad or too long, especially if you wear classic-cut khakis and cords.
Also, if you are looking for a wider shoe, I would advise checking out the Trickers brand (www.trickers.com), they are also a well-respected UK shoe maker.
I was in NYC the other day and sat for a while at 52nd & Park, a good place to find well-heeled males. I noted a few things that you've captured in your photographs:
Lots and lots of baseball caps on gentleman who were otherwise dapper in smart topcoats and cashmere scarves.
Lots of Barbours over suits/ties or sportcoats/ties.
Black shoes definitely on the decline compared with brown and tan shoes, even with (especially with?) navy and grey suits.
Three-fourths of all Gucci loafers must be work at or around this intersection.
One of the things I do like about classic American style is this mix of formal and dressy.
Nice pictures again. I have a question about the liddesdale from the picture. You say it is made in England. It looks very thick and substantial to me. I know you have the current version too. Do you see much difference between these two different versions quality wise, please?
@Bernie - It is a Barbour Women's Berwick Tweed. (It is a good jacket, but it is no Chrysalis. )
@Anonymous 12:00 - I fear I am more of a traditionalist when it comes to most Barbour jackets and not so keen on the many pockets, darts, etc that are on many that they offer. (I appreciate Barbour's motorcycle history but never took to them.) Personally I would expand more toward the Border, Gamefair or Northumbria. (Although of those three I favor the Border as I prefer the Sage wax as opposed to the Olive and/or Sylkoil.)
@Anonymous 12:35 - You are right. My older/original Liddesdale is a bit thicker than my newer ones. I prefer the older one both because of that thickness but also because of the knit cuffs. It is a warmer and more protective jacket.
Have you bought any new Patagonia Snap-Ts this year? What do you think of the colors they are offering? I want to buy one but can't decide on a good color. I have found that items online appear differently than when you receive them in the mail.
@Anonymous 5:55 - I would have bought the Luxe Green for myself in a Small but they sold out before I could. Other than that I don't particularly fancy any of them.
Walking in NY is indeed lovely, but I made the mistake of attempting to walk down 5th when Saks was doing the light show (not anything like one's of the past). The masses of bodies is frightening. I did get to explore Grammecy Park which is wonderful and the area is far more quiet. Merry Christmas
My home town is at its best for the Holidays. We visited for the International Debutante Ball (we now live in Maryland) and it was a thrill, as always, to be in New York. Didn't get any Crockett & Jones, but did pick up a pair of Belgians.Thank you for your Blog, Muffy!
39 comments:
I think it is one of my favorite cities during the holidays as well! All of the decor, shopping, and taking in the sights. Even more so when there is snow!
When I was in Crockett & Jones the day after Thanksgiving, I had a nice talk with manager Kevin Hill. I'm a big fan of their Scotch Grain shoes.....and just about everything else they make.
Great pics of NYC! Here's my question--did you buy the shoes??? I really liked the boot style.
Muffy, could you please answer my question from your last post? Basically, I'd like to know if it's a good idea to have a Barbour Liddesdale tailored. If it is, I need to bring it in by tomorrow so I can wear it when we go up to the winter home on Friday!
@Flo - Not yet! I am slightly concerned that they are too narrow and pointy in the toes. But they are very beautiful. I might try them on again next week.
@W&L - I would ask your tailor as it would be nice to be able to wear a jacket left to you by your uncle. And to answer your other question, yes my newer Liddesdales have the open sleeves.
When I lived on 56th I NEVER would have guessed that there was such a nice shoe store nearby! And that is why I read your blog.
Muffy, what's a good preppy laptop bag for a college student (Lotuff is faaaaaar too expensive but I live in hope that I'll own one someday)?
Now we're talking! Holly Jolly indeed!
What a wonderful way to enter into the spirit of the holidays. The energy and spirit of NYC jumps out of the photos.
Many thanks. Merry Christmas.
@Anonymous 7:55 I too faced the same conundrum while in grad school. I went with a non-leather option, the Orvis Battenkill canvas and leather briefcase. Has laptop and tablet sleeves, plenty of room for books, etc., great leather details and a rich green, durable canvas body. At $250 it's no "inexpensive" option, but Orvis stands behind their products, will repair it for life, and you'll stand out from the sea of messenger bags and TNF backpacks! To boot, the bag will transition well into your "adult life". Just my two cents!
Thanks for the photos, as always. I love New York City at Christmas, and agree that it's a fantastic place for walking. My aunt and I strolled up Madison to do some shopping at Christmas last year and were bowled over by shops, great and small, still selling beautiful, truly luxurious goods--spurring my aunt to remark, "I've been living in the suburbs for way too long."
To the commenter looking for an inexpensive laptop bag: I, in the same situation, had Wm. J. Mills custom-make a bag, in colors of my choice and with a narrower handle than the standard one offered on their site, which I far prefer. The whole process was easy and friendly and took under 2 weeks--and six months or so later, I'm still very satisfied. You can see the bag here: http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m53w9p9ow11qzofvvo1_1280.jpg
I second the Orvis Battenkill recommendation -- I have several pieces from college and my first job that have held up beautifully over the years.
Love those wingtips!
@Anonymous 7:55 looking for a laptop bag--not sure what size laptop you have, but a couple of years ago Coach made a really nice looking bag that didn't scream Coach, you can frequently find these new on Ebay for $75 and up.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Coach-Voyage-Canvas-Messenger-Tote-Bag-Red-/221167943012?pt=US_CSA_MWA_Briefcases&hash=item337ea2fd64
Red wasn't the only color either, they also came in a dark blue, not quite royal, not quite navy. Good luck in your search!
@WRJ - Thank you so much for pointing out Wm. J. Mills & Co.. As always you are pitch perfect, and now I very much want these bags! Here is the link to your bag (great color combination): http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m53w9p9ow11qzofvvo1_1280.jpg and here is a link to their site: http://shop.millscanvas.com/index.html.
I see my sister's office building!
Is that guy pushing the garbage truck??
@Anonymous 3:04 - Indeed. It wouldn't start.
Thanks for the stroll, it's been several years but we'll never forget .....
May I ask a question about "country clothes" vs. "city clothes"?
As lovely as you look in the photos, ladies of my mother's generation might suggest that the fabrics you are wearing are not city-appropriate. When she would go down to NYC from Greenwich to meet my father for lunch, I remember that her look was distinctly different from what she might wear to lunch with friends locally.
Personally, I think the distinction is waning and it seems that you do as well. Would just like to hear your thoughts.
Beautiful! New York in December is spectacular. Thanks for the 5 minute vacation looking at those great shots gave me.
Love the shoes and the boots!
You know, I did think that was you taking a photo of Orvis on 44th street the other day! I work right down the block there. I was going to say hello, but didn't want to risk sounding like a "fanboy".
Hi Muffy,
Warmest greetings from Birmingham, England.
I'm really glad that you had an opportunity to visit Crockett and Jones. I wholeheartedly recommend their shoes. They last for a very, very long time, are a joy to wear and develop great character with age. Their Scotchgrain and Dainite range is indestructible; and their loafers and Chelsea boots are timeless. They are not just shoes, but highly-crafted products made with a lot of care and pride. They're definitely in my top three UK products list.
Thanks for your great blog and for sharing the very best of classic and sustainable American lifestyle and products. It's lovely to make new discoveries about the States from 'across the pond'.
All the best
Susannah
Love your picture of the lions, Patience and Fortitude, in front of the NYC Library. They seem so appropriate for your blog. What is the make of that tweed jacket of yours?
@WRJ and Muffy I too can say that the Wm. J. Mills & Co are great! I have had many of their tote bags since I was little. They have held up very well despite being dragged on the pavement by 5 year-old hands uptown to Penn and Grand Central Station to leave the city for the weekend. I also spent most of my summers, until recently, out on the North Fork of Long Island where the bags are from. It is such a special place to me.
Muffy,
Those are some handsome boots!
@Muffy. Hi :). If the shoes are a bit narrow, ask the manager if (s)he can put them on stretching lasts for a couple of weeks.
During gait and posture therapy I had some foot manipulation to straighten my feet out. This made them change shape and stretch half a size. The C and J team kindly stretched all of my shoes and they now fit perfectly.
Another alternative is to check out equivalents in the men's range. They have a more rounded-toe than the women's versions. I am a UK 6.5/ US 9, so I can wear both, but I have to go down a size or a size-and-a-half. The guy's shoes don't look too bad or too long, especially if you wear classic-cut khakis and cords.
Also, if you are looking for a wider shoe, I would advise checking out the Trickers brand (www.trickers.com), they are also a well-respected UK shoe maker.
All the best
Susannah
I was in NYC the other day and sat for a while at 52nd & Park, a good place to find well-heeled males. I noted a few things that you've captured in your photographs:
Lots and lots of baseball caps on gentleman who were otherwise dapper in smart topcoats and cashmere scarves.
Lots of Barbours over suits/ties or sportcoats/ties.
Black shoes definitely on the decline compared with brown and tan shoes, even with (especially with?) navy and grey suits.
Three-fourths of all Gucci loafers must be work at or around this intersection.
One of the things I do like about classic American style is this mix of formal and dressy.
I have another suggestion for the commenter looking for a more moderately priced briefcase - J.W. Hulme Co.
See: http://www.jwhulmeco.com
It is my understanding that J.W.Hulme were the orignal providers of Orvis' Battenkill luggage.
Their products are made in the U.S. and come with a lifetime guarantee. I can attest to their high quality.
Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year to Muffy, her family, and all my fellow commenters!
-raed
Thanks for sharing these lovely photos. New York is always its most beautiful during the holidays.
Dear Muffy,
I wish you'd been there last weekend when I was traipsing all over the city in my preppy best!
I'm quite sure I'd have ended up in your photos.
Merry Christmas!
-Zach
Muffy,
I already got a beaufort and im looking for another barbour jacket.
I have my eyes on the following:
sapper, trooper and corbridge
Any thoughts on them and which would be prefered? I just cant make up my mind. Maybe even a 1-3 ranking of them.
Thanks,
Nice pictures again. I have a question about the liddesdale from the picture. You say it is made in England. It looks very thick and substantial to me. I know you have the current version too. Do you see much difference between these two different versions quality wise, please?
@Bernie - It is a Barbour Women's Berwick Tweed. (It is a good jacket, but it is no Chrysalis. )
@Anonymous 12:00 - I fear I am more of a traditionalist when it comes to most Barbour jackets and not so keen on the many pockets, darts, etc that are on many that they offer. (I appreciate Barbour's motorcycle history but never took to them.) Personally I would expand more toward the Border, Gamefair or Northumbria. (Although of those three I favor the Border as I prefer the Sage wax as opposed to the Olive and/or Sylkoil.)
@Anonymous 12:35 - You are right. My older/original Liddesdale is a bit thicker than my newer ones. I prefer the older one both because of that thickness but also because of the knit cuffs. It is a warmer and more protective jacket.
Have you bought any new Patagonia Snap-Ts this year? What do you think of the colors they are offering? I want to buy one but can't decide on a good color. I have found that items online appear differently than when you receive them in the mail.
@Anonymous 5:55 - I would have bought the Luxe Green for myself in a Small but they sold out before I could. Other than that I don't particularly fancy any of them.
Not to speak out of turn, but you are gorgeous!
Walking in NY is indeed lovely, but I made the mistake of attempting to walk down 5th when Saks was doing the light show (not anything like one's of the past). The masses of bodies is frightening. I did get to explore Grammecy Park which is wonderful and the area is far more quiet.
Merry Christmas
All the very best for the festive season to you, your family and to my fellow TDP blogsters.
Ian from Downunder
My home town is at its best for the Holidays. We visited for the International Debutante Ball (we now live in Maryland) and it was a thrill, as always, to be in New York. Didn't get any Crockett & Jones, but did pick up a pair of Belgians.Thank you for your Blog, Muffy!
Post a Comment