Until a while ago, you might have lost your place to go after getting dressed. Or, more likely, they weren’t dressed up at all. But that was then and this is now. I have a lot to do in August. This weekend in Manhattan, Chanel made possible her performance of a ballet featuring some of the city’s most celebrated dance companies as part of her BAAND Together festival. The Gaetano Pesce exhibit and Aspen outdoor installations add to the summer city fun. And, of course, not to mention his upcoming US Open tennis tournament. Find all these details and outfit suggestions in our August issue of What to Wear, Where.
August 9-13
In its second year, five of New York’s most prestigious ballet companies have joined forces for a series of performances dubbed BAAND Together. BAAND, an acronym for all companies involved, features dancers from Ballet Hispanico, Alvin Ailey American Dancer Theater, American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, and Harlem’s Dance Theater, free as part of the Lincoln Center Summer I will be performing at city program. It’s all made possible by Madame Gabrielle Chanel’s House of Fashion, Chanel, where ballet patronage began. Head to the event in a dress inspired by a sophisticated promotional image. Skims bodysuits make a great alternative to leotards. And in all the right places, this sheer Alexander McQueen skirt is just so lovely, the Miu Miu pointe shoes are the perfect finishing touch, and don’t forget the Chanel lip color.
open for business
Assouline, publisher of the fashion world’s favorite coffee table books, has hoisted its flag at Bal Harbor Shops in Miami. This is her second permanent store in Florida for the French company, after the Palm Beach outpost. Visit and pick up beautifully bound travel books and artist monographs. It’s a colorful space, so why not try to match the vividness with your outfit? Pick a striped set by Rosie Assoulin (not relevant for the record). Athlin’s tote bag helps bring home a new book, and Arizona Her Love’s raffia sandals set the stage for the whole experience.
open for business
Shelter Island’s latest hotel draw is nothing new. Opened in 1927, the hotel sits on a hill overlooking Crescent Beach and Peconic Bay. After years of enjoying itself as a classic country resort, the property has been refreshed and reopened just in time for the Hamptons’ high season. Located near hotspot Sunset Beach, Pridwin offers a more low-key setting. Instead of DJs, there are tennis courts and paddle boarding. Check in with your comfort in mind. Don’t forget to bring your suit. Toteme’s graphic dress looks great under a Bondi Born linen coverup. And you’ll probably want a hat that’s a bucket of Prada raffia and practical, stylish sandals like these easy Tkees slides.
Open until October 9th
Aspen is full of surprises. For example, the view of Aspen Mountain. Adding to this summer’s landscape is a new outdoor installation at the Aspen Art Museum designed by Shigeru Ban. On one side of the museum’s façade is the site-specific My Dear Mountains by Italian multidisciplinary artist Gaetano Pesce, known for his whimsical, wobbly experiments with resin and crayon-coloured furnishings. . Many of these works are on display in the museum. Take in the mood and enjoy the ensemble. Start with a black Esse Studios dress and accessorize with Bea Bongiasca floral enamel necklace for her and a Cult Gaia knotted bag. Throw in TheOpen’s jersey buttons up for a final touch of pomp.
open for business
Miami and New York seem to be swapping dishes. Miami imported Carbone and Sadelle, New York imported her ZZ’s Clam Bar and KYU. The latter is a recent addition to his NoHo restaurant scene in Manhattan, a Pan-Asian restaurant headed by Eleven Madison Park alum Chris Arellanes, taking over his former Gato space. Dine here wearing something that picks up the jewel tone of the decor. Alanui’s simple striped dress is both comfortable and chic. Accessorize with a mesh bag by Brandon Blackwood, gold chain link earrings by Monica Vinader and leather thong sandals by Frame.
open for business
The number of Life House stores continues to grow, and for good reason. Well-designed ryokans offer boutique experiences drawn from their respective destinations. A new addition to Berkshire, it has established itself as an ideal writer’s retreat. In the lounge, creators can stay by the wood fire all day or take a hike through the woods for inspiration. If you stick to the former, consider Missoni pants that wink at the lounge upholstery. Top it off with a crisp white shirt from The Frankie Shop for a touch of sophistication. Common Projects suede kicks are a more comfortable take on brown booties, and the COS bag fits your laptop when you’re in the mood to write.
open for business
A new rooftop bar, Selva, opened at Chicago’s Emily Hotel this summer. Serving Mexican cuisine and mezcal cocktails, this space is a welcome addition to the city’s rooftop dining scene. You’ll want to capture the sunset here, so don’t forget your sunglasses, like these flower-inspired Loewe glasses: Theory’s simple striped day dress, Raye’s black wedges, and Zara’s woven catch. Pair with the oar bag.
August 29th to September 11th
Tennis enthusiasts know that August is tournament season. If you haven’t received your tickets yet, get them now. You can also shop for courtside looks, as long as they’re tennis-themed. Tory She Birch is a classic, preppy tennis go-to, but her perfect white tennis skirt doesn’t have to be confined to the court. Pair with a graphic t-shirt for the perfect spectator look. A tennis charm necklace and visor (it can be sunny with Arthur Ashe!) complete the look.
From now until September
Learn more about viticulture there than enjoy a glass of wine with your meal at Scarpetta. Hosted by Alessio de Sensi, the session begins with the history of winemaking and ends with a wine tasting, but not before the dessert course. Why not wear a merlot-colored dress like Norma Kamari’s beloved Diana? Toteme mules and gold bracelets will make your wrists undulate as you toast to new knowledge.