District L

There are few people in this world that you can depend on for style suggestions – everyone seems to have an opinion, a licensed clothing line, two t-shirt companies, and a personal style Tumblr. So when you find reliable friends that double as unfailing fashion informants, you pay close attention.

This week, I was introduced to MEI New York, an evocative new brand with a penchant for the past. Inspired by 19^th Century menswear and Christopher Payne’s redolent aesthetic, the design duo shares a similar philosophy with the aforementioned photographer – to preserve the vanishing quality and design of yesteryear.

With close attention to detail, the MEI New York F12 collection combines utilitarian with poise for a rich, enduring debut.

Post by Amanda LaMela

For a fashion site, we’re pretty keen on the impending apocalypse, wouldn’t you say?

We’ve only mentioned the end of the world in regards to Starbucks and Henri Bendel. And then, of course, we exposed the apocalyptic warnings hidden within the collections of Sally LaPointe, Maisonette 1977, and MARTINmartin. Oh, yeah… we also brought it up again this past weekend…just for fun.

But all jokes aside, if this New York rain doesn’t stop anytime soon, we’re going to have to start boarding an arc. And by arc, I mean a luxury-class Giga yacht.

Thinking about how we’re going to deal with all of those goddamn animals is enough to induce an anxiety attack. Dare I remind you of the stress that comes with packing?! So that is why I created this helpful list:

HOW TO PACK FOR NOAH’S ARC YACHT

Before you start packing things, it’s imperative that you start considering a travel partner. Your initial thought may be to quickly find your soulmate so you can sail happily-ever-after into a sea of nothingness.

But your initial thought is wrong. Cruises are good for one thing – meeting attractive people of the opposite gender. So if you’re going to pick a person to cruise with for all of apocalyptic eternity, it might as well be someone who has great accessories.

Multi-functional clothing. No, I don’t mean jeggings. I am talking about United Nude’s Pin heel. With a shoe that doubles as a weapon, you’ll be more prepared than a soccer mom at a Kleenex conference. And a hell of a lot sexier.

Cotton is chic. And it doesn’t wrinkle like linen. Expect to be psyched when you start unrolling those 40 Lois Eastlund dresses out of your suitcase – you’ll have way more clothing options than anyone else on that boat without exceeding the luggage weight-limit. Plus, dry-clean-only is not ideal for prolonged rainstorms.

EFFEN Vodka. Need I say more?

Sun protection. But sunscreen smells, so what’s a lady to do? We suggested you invest in a wide-brim Carmen Marc Valvo hat and call it a day. It’ll also double as an excuse when you pretend to not notice your irritating neighbors waving from down the hall.

There you have it: District L – your one-stop shop for fashion news and end-of-the-world preparation. You’re welcome, dear readers.

Post by Amanda LaMela

The weekend began with EFFEN vodka and edgy electronic beats by Savoy – and it ended with Sunday’s sidewalk visit to Hulbert Waldroup, the infamous artist on West Broadway. Toss in a few glasses of champagne, a brunch session at Freemans, one major OAK sale, and a lazy afternoon at the Tribeca Grand Hotel…

No amount of youth is being wasted on these PYTs.

And if the rumors are true, spring is right around the corner. Toss your winter coats into storage and prepare to match your wardrobe to that new abundant social calendar:

Brunch at Marc Forgione: Two-Toned Heels by Kathryn Amberleigh (219 Mott Street)

Art Shopping on West Broadway: Crescendo Dot Dress by Lois Eastlund (153 Ludlow Street)

Nighttime Rooftop Pregame: Impact Silk Crop Jacket by Stylein (EVA New York)

Post by Amanda LaMela

Using party photos to cover an event is the best excuse I have for consistent narcissistic indulgence. But the fact still remains that Starboard Hudson is a fantastic venue and a lasting DL favorite. We navigated the waters with Starboard Captains, Sarah and Jessica, as well as designer, Rebecca Formichella. With a constant congregation of fabulous night owls, we're already signing up for the next event!

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

I'd vibe to this. District L always goes overboard at Starboard Hudson.

What's that? You spent $200 on a table at a tacky club full of tourists who haven't been out since Halloween? Did the one bartender at the party's open bar not hear your drink order... again? Or maybe you decided to "keep it low key this year," only to find yourself splitting a bottle of Korbel with your neighbor and her chubby cousin, Edna.

So sorry to hear that.

District L took a different approach to New Year's Eve. After the fabulous Soft Opening Concert and Party at Starboard Hudson in November, we were HELL BENT on casting our anchor at Pier 66 for the last night of the year.

And cast we did. Being sure to go fashionably overboard for the entire evening, we explored uncharted waters -- hidden nooks and quarters that we had inexplicably missed during round one.

Starboard Hudson, watch out. The next shipwreck is approaching so soon.

Post by Amanda LaMela

A week after their successful Soft Opening Concert and Party, the talented team behind Starboard Hudson announced that the party ain't over. Shortly after the New Year kicks in, the libertine crowd will again flood the ship for music and mayhem. [Don't fret - we'll be keeping you posted on the details.]

Congratulations, Starboard, for a splashy start!

Post by Amanda LaMela