Epitome of Chic

It's always fun to see a home featured in a magazine in which you've actually seen in person.  I was lucky enough to be invited to a charity event that was held in the home of Alfredo Parades and Brad Goldfarb that is the cover story for the April issue of Architectural Digest.  Many people in the design world know Alfredo but if you don't, his official title is Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Creative Officer for Ralph Lauren.  His position encompasses not only store design but also special events and other projects.  Needless to say, his home is the epitome of chic not only inside but out.  If I had that amazing terrace, I would probably never go anywhere else. To find out all the details and read the entire story, click here. 

Alfredo is also being honored by DIFFA in New York this upcoming Monday at their annual Dining by Design event.  The event is open for public viewing all weekend and I'm headed over there today for AD Home Design Show and Cocktails by Design this evening which is in the same location.  I hear the Ralph Lauren table this year is larger than ever to celebrate this wonderful honor and I can't wait to see it.  If it's anything like Alfredo's apartment, I'm sure it will be amazing!

UPDATE: Those of you who viewed this post earlier will notice that it now contains less photos.  I was contacted by Architectural Digest and informed that they only allow bloggers to post five images from any story.

Photos by Miguel Flores-Vianna for Architectural Digest

Rosecliff at Ralph Lauren Home

While out and about yesterday, I popped into the Ralph Lauren Ladies Mansion to see what was new at Ralph Lauren Home.  They had changed out the rooms for their new spring collections and I was blown away by Rosecliff which reflects "the casual grandeur of the coastal Northeast." They think of everything to make you feel like you're actually walked into a house in Maine including a soundtrack of the ocean and seagulls.  The weather is starting to feel like spring and Rosecliff could not be any more perfect with its shades of white and blue.  Now all I need is a house by the ocean. 

Hope

As you know, I'm a very busy person but when I'm asked to do something for a good case, I definitely make time.  Ralph Lauren and Paperless Post have collaborated on the first ever Pink Pony Hope Card Line and I was honored that they asked me to create a card.  The other card creators include Katie of The Neo-Traditionalist, Blair of Atlantic-Pacific, and Dallas of Dilly Dallas.  Each card reflects our personal style with a special message of hope. Additionally, each card has a click to donate function to the Pink Pony Fund. This October send a message of Hope to friends and family and help drive awareness to Pink Pony's mission of ensuring that everyone, regardless of income, can access the care they need! To send a Pink Pony Hope Card click here.

I was aware of the Pink Pony Fund but this project really educated me to all the wonderful things that it encompasses.  With a focus on breast cancer, the Pink Pony Fund of the Polo Ralph Lauren Foundation supports programs for early diagnosis, education, treatment and research and is dedicated to bringing patient navigation and quality cancer care to medically under served communities.

I also learned that Ralph Lauren also offers wonderful home products that support the Pink Pony Fund including a gorgeous jewelry box, scented candle, picture frame, and a gorgeous cashmere blanket. If you are interested in making a donation to the Pink Pony Fund please click here or shopping click here. 

"Breast cancer is not just a woman's issue - it affects all of us: brothers, husbands, fathers, children, friends.  Pink Pony is our effort in the fight against cancer." - Ralph Lauren

NYFW: The World of Ralph

I attended my first ever Ralph Lauren fashion show today and I can tell you that it was even more magical than I imagined.  I was wondering why Ralph Lauren holds their show at Skylight Studios all the way downtown.  When I walked inside, the answer was clear.  Every detail from the sisal carpet to the beautiful floral arrangement and crystal sconces was classic Ralph Lauren.  It was so elegant yet completely comfortable which is how I would also describe the Spring 2012 collection. The opening ensembles were full of pastels and sweet florals but it was the glittering gowns and ivory outfits that stole the show.  There was definitely a 1920's influence but it was interpreted in a very modern way.  I really loved the cloches and even the menswear tailoring wasn't too over the top.  It was all pure Ralph, right down to the floor.

The welcoming floral arrangement for spring.

People start taking their seats.

Olivia Wilde looked even more gorgeous in person.

Newly married daughter Dylan greets guests.

Wife Ricky arrives.



I was excited to see the chic Shala Monroque.

And even more excited when she sat in front of me.

Alexandra Kotur and editor in chief Jay Fielden represent Town & Country at the show. I hear that Lauren Bush and David Lauren will grace the October cover of the magazine too.

I loved editor Giovanna Battaglia's dress. 

I bet you know what magazine this group works for thanks to The City. That's Joe Zee in the middle flanked by Anne Slowey and editor in chief Robbie Myers of ELLE.

All of that action happened before the runway show began.  After that, it was pure magic.  The following are some of my favorites and more importantly, the photos that didn't come out blurry!  Bonus points for those of you who can spot all the magazine editors and one very famous photog in the audience! Enjoy!

UPDATE: I just noticed that if you click on the photos to see them larger, you can now view them in a slideshow.  They all look much better larger too!  Bon Weekend!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic