District L

Just because you traded your dinner date for a front-row runway seat this Valentine’s Day, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still drop hints for holiday gifts. Leave the package with the doorman, baby.

Our fabulous photographer, Rachel, and I were in Brooklyn last weekend. (We do occasionally venture off the island for the independent coffee shops and vintage finds.) Amidst the sea of flannel and Missed Connections, we stumbled upon a hidden gem in Williamsburg, Catbird. No, this is not a remake of the oddly charming late 90’s cartoon – only our newest jewelry obsession, perfect for a (G-rated) Valentine’s Day gift. The unique jewelry company makes a variety of goodies that are edgy, yet delicate, creating a look that’s more feminine then gothic.

As I tend to weigh every finger down with 2-4 rings like a traveling gypsy, I fell hard for the stackable letter rings. It’s the ideal way to pair your initials with your lover’s – coming in second place to romantic acts of arson.

Rachel also found something she couldn’t live without. This lovely little piece looks like a pocket watch but holds either lip-gloss or cream fragrances – more chic than a Chapstick and less cumbersome then packing your perfume. Perfection.

So get shopping to get smooching! And of course, this holiday is about love. (Love just always happens to be better with champagne.)

Post by Madisen Walker

Today's snowpocalypse was the perfect reason to focus our energy indoors, and Patrick Naggar's Opening Party for "Evolutions" was just the outlet. This renowned artist and architect has been an influence in the design world for the better part of three decades. In October 1988, his write-up in The New York Times praised the designer's flawless execution, which combined the structural intricacies of vintage airplanes with the simplicity of Japanese aesthetic.

Now, we fast-forward to Naggar's present-day influence. In an event co-hosted by Elle Decor an Ralph Pucci, Patrick's "Evolutions" uses architecture as the anchoring concept that merges symbolism with functionality and myth with science. Ralph Pucci's impressive showroom was the ideal space for browsing and mingling, 12 floors above the snowy Chelsea streets.

Post by Amanda LaMela

In light of Madisen’s recent Winter Weather Advisory, we decided to further encourage those who have already taken the necessary steps towards chicness. With the help of libertine party photographer, Kirill Bichutsky, I have compiled some fur-ocious looks from a few fashionable night-owls.

January doldrums, be gone -- Style inspiration looks best after dark.

Post by Amanda LaMela

Yesterday morning, one very cold news reporter standing outside in Central Park said, “Today is not a day to look good, you want to bundle up and stay warm.” We at DistrictL say, “Nay, random reporter.” While yes, it is easy to succumb to the baser needs and dress like the little kid in A Chistmas Story, we ask you to rally and continue to dress fabulously. New York can become a wonderful wintry Fashion Mecca of muffs and mulled wine, so let’s keep it that way. And for those of you with a weaker immune system, please adhere to the following guidelines:

If you insist on wearing them, please avoid the basic rubber variety that are typically printed in an obnoxious color that only draw attention to the fact your feet look like they belong to an extra in a zombie movie. Instead why not try:

1. BCBG “Grommet”: These boots may be rubber, but the hard detailing says, “Don’t mess.”

2. Sperry: The quilted top allows for less bulk and the equestrian style will always look dashing while you’re trekking down unplowed Soho sidewalks.

3. Kate Spade “Randi”: The name alone should be enough, but the bow and small heel make it a ladylike way to keep your toes dry.

For those of us who live in the windy, yet fabulous TriBeCa, we can understand the desire to be windproof. However, friends do NOT let friends schlep around in shapeless sleeping bags. Instead, find refuge in polished tailoring and feminine details:

1. Andrew Marc “Brown Quilted Down”: This fur collar and belt draws attention away from the bulk and adds an extra touch of style and warmth.

2. Eli Tahari “Elissa”: This puffer coat has a fantastic collar-hood with gathered edges that offer some sweetness.

Yes, it’s that simple. Wear faux fur like an off-duty stripper, rock a turban, or dress extremely inappropriately and engage only in indoor activities like sipping hot toddies and losing yourself in the Bergdorf Goodman shoe salon. As for me, I will be boycotting pants for as long as possible and committing entirely to tights and over-the-knee socks. Very Pippy-Longstockings-meets-Lolita.

Whatever way you decide, remember that fashion is fun, and though the random reporter may not know it, one can actually look good and be warm at the same time.

Post by Madisen Walker

Lois Eastlund has so much love to share, to Ludlow and beyond. Below is another shot we captured during our Wall Street rooftop revelry. As I sit amongst roses in lace tights, Lois styles the perfect blend of edgy-romance.

Post by Amanda LaMela

Last night was another Saturday and another chance to enjoy new music aboard Starboard Hudson. Beneath the deck of the Frying Pan, a crowd of stylish and well-informed individuals gathered to party with bands like Atypicals and Moon Hooch. Because the first two Starboard parties were such a splash, this ripple effect will continue every Saturday until May 1.

Post by Amanda LaMela

District L is known for our rooftop shenanigans.

Last Monday, Lois Eastlund and I spent our day off taking photos on Wall Street rooftops. With eight red dresses, eight pairs of tall heels, and a few rousing hours, we completed a fabulous February fashion story.

Lois has been leaking out new sneak-peek photos each day. Preview some of her looks below!

Post by Amanda LaMela

Images and Wardrobe by Lois Eastlund

The Trump Soho was aglow tonight as Irina Shabayeva unveiled her collaboration with INC. Amongst rooftop cocktails and conversation, Madisen and I browsed the looks at Irina's model presentation.

Unsure of how the designer's edgy aesthetic would translate to the INC customer, the result pleasantly surprised the DL. Her flawlessly conveyed concept emerged from the suggestion of movement and dance. With body-con dresses, glitzy details, and flowing trims, this collection catered to the party-girl in all of us.

Post by Amanda LaMela