I was in NYC last week attending the NYIGF. The trade show takes place twice per year - in August and January. There are literally miles of aisles to walk through with wholesalers selling just about everything you can imagine from plastic gadgets that are one stop away from a garage sale near you, to the finest luxury home furnishings. It can be overwhelming if you don't narrow your focus and spread it out over several days. Even then it's overwhelming!
For the past four years I've been going to the winter show with a brief visit to Northern Virginia first to visit relatives.
Coming from California, I always hope it snows. This year Mother Nature didn't disappoint...
The blurry photo was taken from my grandparent's house in McLean.
It seems every year the houses in their neighborhood get bigger and bigger. My grandparents have lived in the same house for my entire life. Until recently, the architecture has mostly been Colonial or Georgian Colonial. These days, the original columned homes are being torn down, and replaced with a range of architectural styles.
This stone house is so magnificent. I wish I was able to get closer to show you the level of detail.
I took the train from DC to NYC on Saturday afternoon. Even though the time of day and destination didn't match, Gladys Knight's "Midnight Train To Georgia" was playing in my head. And on my iPod... If you're in the right frame of mind, it can make you cry.
I digress. On to the show. I had a mission this time - accessories!
We had these pillows in the lavender and gray colorway at the shop and they sold out almost immediately. The one above would be spectacular on a brown sofa.
These embroidered Peruvian tapestries can be customized in any color and size. They make me excited for summer.
I'm thinking about carrying these lamps in the shop. They're so universal - boy's bedrooms, family rooms, offices, etc.
This wallpaper line has caught my eye for the past several years. I don't use wallpaper much, but got thinking they be great to line the back of book shelves or in a powder room.
These stunning tin chandeliers were one of my favorite new finds. They come in a range of patinas or painted.
I thought these wood and metal frames were fun and have a great beach house feel.
On my last day in New York, I decided not to go back to the gift show, and instead hit the streets and absorb all I could of my favorite city before my flight home.
Loved this restaurant's forward thinking optimism. It was 20 degrees outside.
Without a destination or anyone to compromise with, I was free to roam wherever I wanted. As it turned out, I wanted to go to Barney's. Long time readers know, I am by no means a shopper and given a choice I would much rather have clothes (super cute, well fitting clothes!) just appear in my closet. That said, there is no place comparable to Barney's NYC to spot what's on the forefront in the fashion world.
I discovered this new-to-me line.
What would you wear this with? I'm picturing white jeans + ballet flats.
It's hard to see, but there is lace trim around the bottom and back of this long v-neck cardigan. Outfit ideas? How about black leather leggings and high heeled ankle boots?
Cotton knit at the top and arms and crisp cotton in the body. Navy and white stripes are timeless and always look chic. Very Jean-Paul Gaultier. What to pair this with? Faded boyfriend jeans rolled with No. 6 clogs perhaps.
The skirt on this dress is army green although it looks black in the photo. I bet it's cuter on than on the hanger. Especially with great sandals.
Speaking of shoes...
After leaving Barney's I had about an hour left before I needed to get back to get my stuff and head to the airport. Since I was nearby and never go, I just decided why not...
No, I did not ride in this, although had I not been alone...
I had another photo from inside the park, but I think I accidentally deleted it. Needless to say, it was a good, productive trip.
Anything you would like to know more about from this post? Email your questions to info@serenaarmstronginteriors.com.
Happy middle of the week to you!
