DailyCandy New York

Scenes from an Italian Restaurant

2009-11-20T14:45:00Z

East Side Social Club Opens

A preview of the Gilroy family Thanksgiving.

Billy: We got a lot to be grateful for. East Side Social Club opens on Monday. The whole family, working together.

Jimmy: Here we go. My kid brother’s on a roll. What’s this, your 90th place, Mr. Macao Trading-Employees Only-Match?

Billy: You talk, Sir Legendary Sunday Night Bartender at Raoul’s for decades.

Jimmy: Hey. Don’t age me. Can I help it if we inherited the gene from Grandma, the original owner of Grotta Azzurra? (Before Little Italy was a culinary joke.)

Billy: Yeah, and East Side’s special. An Italian-American joint, like the social club Dad used to run on East 10th. Cozy booths, black and white photos of DiMaggio. Linguini with clam sauce, gnocchi Bolognese, sirloin with braised radicchio. Devon, my boy, you learned well at A Voce and Chanterelle.

Devon: Grace, tell Dad to shut up. You’re the GM. That’s your job.

Grace: That’s enough, guys. Can someone pass the gravy?

East Side Social Club, 230 East 51st Street, between Second and Third Avenues (212-355-9442 or esscnyc.com).

Photo: Billy Farrell / Courtesy of Patrick McMullan

More Than Words

2009-11-20T14:15:00Z

Library: Archives of Fashion Vintage Shop

It was Miss Lail with the horsebit belt in the library.

Need a bigger clue? We’re talking about Library: Archives of Fashion, an online vintage shop out of Charleston.

At the helm is Lauren Lail, who sees each fashion piece as a story, together creating a unique anthology.

Designer items share virtual racks with no names, all dangling reasonable price tags and detailed measurements.

Hopeless romantics will be drawn to floral dresses, ruffled tops, and crochet vests. Big sunglasses, chunky belts, and animal prints will appeal to those with a penchant for drama. And boyfriend cardis and blazers offer self-help on days when you’re not feeling your thinnest.

There are times we can all use a cover-up.

Available online at libraryfashion.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Sully Sullivan Photography

The Weekend Guide

2009-11-19T14:45:00Z

What to Do This Weekend

It’s never too cold for ice cream.

TREAT
Spot Dessert Bar Opens
What: Pastry whiz Pichet Ong serves up Thai coffee pudding, white miso semifreddo, and toppings like caramelized rice crispies and vanilla-poached persimmon in his new subterranean sweets den.
Why: Buy one, get one free when you mention DailyCandy Fri.-Sun.
When: Daily, 10 a.m.-midnight.
Where: 13 St. Marks Pl., b/t Second & Third Aves. (212-677-5670).

TRADE
Score! Pop-Up Swap
What: Oh, come all ye unwanted stuff. Nab other people’s discarded wares (clothes, household items, books, etc.) while unloading your own.
Why: All proceeds benefit City Harvest, and all unclaimed goods will be donated to charity.
When: Sat., 1-7 p.m.
Where: 3rd Ward, 195 Morgan Ave., b/t Meadow & Stagg Sts., Bushwick (718-715-4961). Entry is $3 with R.S.V.P.

DONATE
Help Feed New York’s Needy
What: Buy a bag of fresh produce and leave it with us to donate to local charities and missions in need. Can’t make it? Help raise money for the Food Bank for New York City.
Why: No one should go hungry.
When: Sat., 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Where: Greenpoint Farmers Market, McCarren Park, Driggs Ave., b/t N. 12th St. & Union Ave.

SHOP
A Little Wicked Boutique
What: Sisters Robyn and Bianca Moreno have stocked their new LES store with reasonably priced vintage clothing, shoes, and accessories, and local labels like Elisa Jimenez.
Why: Free-flowing wine and style advice. Mention DailyCandy for 25 percent off Fri.-Sun.
When: Tues.-Sat., noon-8 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m.
Where: 279 E. Houston St., b/t Clinton & Suffolk Sts. (212-777-1190).

Krel-to-Go Quickie Couture
What: Custom knitwear in less than an hour. The Miami-based designers will whip up anything from a pencil skirt ($70) and scarf ($60) to a sweater for your dog ($40) and even a onesie for your man ($225).
Why: It’s a knitty situation.
When: Sat., noon-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-8 p.m.
Where: Eva New York, 355a Bowery, b/t 3rd & 4th Sts. (212-925-3890).

Or would you rather hit the road this weekend? All you need is a change of clothes and our road trip tips at dailycandy.com/guides.

Photo: Courtesy of Spot Dessert Bar

The Weekend Guide

2009-11-19T14:15:00Z

What to Do This Weekend

It’s a dog’s life.

MAKE
Cake for Canines
What: Give Fido a little something to be grateful for this Thanksgiving (or his next b-day) with a doggie dessert mix. For bonus points, get the bone-shaped cupcake pan.
Why: You’ve got a case of puppy love.
Where: Online at puppycake.com.

SAVE
Heidi Merrick Sale
What: The L.A. designer is discounting dresses, bathing suits, skirts, and blouses by 50-75 percent.
Why: It’s going, going, gone.
Where: Online at heidimerrick.com.

USE
Wordnik
What: The comprehensive online dictionary includes pronunciations, relevant quotes, etymologies, and recent appearances on Twitter and Flickr.
Why: Spread the words.
Where: Online at wordnik.com.

ORGANIZE
LobotoMe Notepads
What: Handy checklists make for more efficient packing, grocery shopping, working out, meal planning, and more.
Why: You’d forget your head if it weren’t attached.
Where: Online at lobotome.com.

WATCH
Handmade Nation
What: Artist/first-time filmmaker Faythe Levine traveled across America to make this inspiring documentary about the recent rise of crafting and DIY.
Why: Get creative juices flowing.
Where: Online at buyolympia.com.

EAT
Full Circle Flavors
What: Three lovely sisters in Pennsylvania make chocolaty Amaretto, Limoncello, and Orangecello cakes.
Why: You’re well rounded.
Where: Online at fullcircleflavors.com.

Would you rather hit the road this weekend? All you need is a change of clothes and our road trip tips at dailycandy.com/guides.

Photo: Courtesy of Puppy Cake

Under African Skies

2009-11-18T17:00:00Z

DailyCandy Goes to Cape Town

Humming with young boho buzz, Cape Town has emerged from its rocky past as the creative capital of Africa. From high-stakes adventures (paragliding off Signal Hill) to creature comforts (crisp, local sauvignon blancs), the city will leave you breathless.

GPS
While the day away in City Bowl’s historic open-air markets, public gardens, and cobblestoned pedestrian malls dating back to the 17th century’s Dutch East India Company. Tamboerskloof has chic outdoor cafes and prime-time people-watching. Style junkies should head to emerging neighborhoods Woodstock (for design collectives and art galleries), Bo-Kaap (for colorful cottage architecture), and de Waterkant (for a hopping gay scene).

NEST
To experience the social swirl at its best, stay within easy access of Kloof Street. Kick up your heels at Tamboerskloof’s sleek and chic Kensington Place (38 Kensington Crescent; +27-21-424-4744) for primo pampering (like your suite sprinkled with rose petals).

The Airstream Penthouse Trailer Park atop the new Grand Daddy (38 Long Street; +27-21-424-7247) offers a campy-cool vibe in the form of seven vintage caravans refurbished by local artists and set against stunning Table Mountain. Trailers have themes — Afro Funk, Love of Lace, and Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Sip Castle lager at the rooftop bar and catch a flick at The Pink Flamingo outdoor cinema. Really, now. Who said trailer trash was a uniquely American phenomenon?

INGEST
Native glamazons start the day with Ouma Rusks, the South African equivalent of a biscotti, and yummy meia de leites (espresso with steamed milk) at Vida e Caffe (34 Kloof Street; +27-21-426-0627). For lunch, grab a quiche at Melissa’s (94 Kloof Street; +27-21-424-5540), which has an awesome pay-per-kilo buffet. Thirsty? Sundowners are a Capetonian institution. Snag a harborside table at Cape Grace’s Bascule (West Quay Road; +27-21-410-7100) and choose from more than 400 whiskeys. The largest single malt collection in the Southern hemisphere, it’s a whiskey lover’s wet dream.

INVEST
Share the love with jealous pals back home and swing through the historic Greenmarket Square (54 Shortmarket Street) for authentic African curios like Hutu masks, soapstone giraffe sculptures, and wooden rhino salad tongs. Saturday mornings, the city’s creative cognoscenti descend upon Woodstock’s vibrant Neighbourgoods Market (373-375 Albert Road; +27-21-448-1438). Tarts, curries, and biltong (South African beef jerky) are a must. And make room for one-of-a-kind textiles, vintage dresses, and handcrafted charm necklaces.

DIGRESS
For old-world glamour and traditional Afrikaans fare, stop by Sunday jazz brunch at Steenberg Hotel and Winery in Constantia Valley (10802 Steenberg Estate, Tokai Road; +27-21-713-2222), the oldest vineyard on the Western Cape. (Owner Graham Beck’s brut NV is what the Obamas popped on election night.)

For insider access to vineyards, hook up with Roar Africa. Its people have been in the region for eleven generations, and co-founder Deb Calmeyer can impress the pickiest oenophile. The VIP visit to UK diamond king Laurence Graff’s new winery, Delaire Graff Estate (P.O. Box 3058, Stellenbosch; +27-21-885-8160), gets you into the off-limits barrel room and a sneaky sampling straight from the casks. (The property’s chic David Collins-designed boutique hotel is set to open next year.)

THE REST
No snoozing for you: There’s high-voltage adrenalin and raw wildlife at every turn. Swim with sharks at Seal Island. Ride big waves at Muizenberg Beach. Hike Table Mountain for sweeping views of the city and the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Visit indigenous penguins at Boulders Beach. And catch a glimpse of the only free roaming white lions in the world at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve (+27-28-572-1824).

Don’t worry about the eternal flight home. You’ll be sleeping the whole way.

Photos: Courtesy of Kelley McMillan; Courtesy of The Grand Daddy; Courtesy of Cape Grace; Courtesy of Neighbourgoods Market; Courtesy of Delaire Graff Estate; Courtesy of Sanbona Game Reserve

Sample Sale Synergy

2009-11-18T14:45:00Z

NYC Sample Sales

Optimize your search.

What: Twinkle by Wenlan
Why: Wool coats for $165 (reg. $484); silk dresses for $114 (reg. $335).
When: Nov. 18 & 19. Wed. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 545 Eighth Ave., b/t 37th & 38th Sts., 17th flr.

What: Inhabit
Why: Classic cashmere items are $80 (reg. $278-$328). Cotton basics are $50 (reg. $158-$198).
When: Nov. 18 & 19. Wed. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 1441 Broadway, b/t 40th & 41st Sts., 24th flr.

What: John Robshaw Textiles
Why: Up to 75 percent off bold print bedding, pillows, rugs, and linens.
When: Nov. 18-20. Wed., 10 a.m.-8: 30 p.m. (cocktails in the evening); Thurs. & Fri., 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
Where: 245 W. 29th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 11th flr.

What: Lela Rose
Why: Seventy-five percent off fancy outfits with a Southern sensibility.
When: Nov. 18-20. Wed. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: 224 W. 30th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 13th flr. (212-947-9204).

What: Christian Lacroix
Why: Coats, jackets, pants, tops, and dresses from past seasons are 75 percent off.
When: Nov. 18-21. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: 260 Fifth Ave., at 29th St., grd. flr.

What: Rebecca Minkoff
Why: Our girl with the mean bag-making habit unleashes her latest (which includes ready-to-wear).
When: Nov. 18-22. Wed.-Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: 17 W. 17th St., b/t Fifth & Sixth Aves.

What: Araks Lingerie
Why: Up to 80 percent off organic cotton panties, bras, teddies, and camis. Swimsuits for 40 bucks.
When: Nov. 19 & 20. Thurs., 8:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Fri., 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Where: 137 Grand St., b/t Crosby & Lafayette Sts., 5th flr.

What: MZ Wallace
Why: All those great nylon, pocket-laden bags are $100.
When: Nov. 19-21. Thurs. & Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 125 Crosby St., b/t Prince & Houston Sts.

What: Steven Alan
Why: Blowout featuring labels you love (The Lake & Stars, Sophomore). House-label shirts for dudes are $65; Demylee cashmere cardigans for gals are $90.
When: Nov. 19-22. Thurs. & Fri., 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., noon-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.
Where: 87 Franklin St., b/t Broadway & Church St. (212-219-3305).

What: Judy Ross Textiles
Why: Embroidered scarves, pillows, knotted rugs, linen panels, and upholstered furniture at wholesale prices.
When: Nov. 19-21. Thurs. & Fri., noon-7 p.m.; Sat., noon-5 p.m.
Where: 41 Union Square W., at 17th St., ste. 931 (212-842-1705). (On Sat. enter at 22 E. 17th St., b/t Broadway & Fifth Ave.)

Skin City

2009-11-18T14:15:00Z

Khirma Eliazov Handbags Debut

After your FUPA made an unscheduled appearance at a late-night dance party (followed by its own tag on Facebook), you swore your skin-showing days were over.

But you’ll rethink things when you get a glimpse of Khirma Eliazov’s handbags. The fashion editor-cum-designer uses unusual exotic skins to make them stand out (in a good way).

The carryalls are comprised of Italian leather, canvas, and gold or silver hardware with textured panels made of stingray. Styles include an oversize number for day, a sleek tote you can carry into the evening, and a pouch with a long body strap good for hitting the town at night. All are available in rich fall hues like navy, eggplant, black, taupe, and gray.

The price tags are steep ($240-$1,495 to be exact).

But you’ve considered paying more for tight skin.

Available online at khirmaeliazov.com. DailyCandy readers get 20% off on purchases made today with code DailyCandy.

Photo: Courtesy of Khirma Eliazov

This Little Deal of Mine

2009-11-17T16:00:00Z

Let ’em shine!

Ms. Greenjeans

2009-11-17T14:45:00Z

She’s got the whole world in her hands.

Let's Be Ecological

2009-11-17T14:00:00Z

My, what a big carbon footprint you have! Try these green products with an edge, dear.

International Affairs

2009-11-16T14:45:00Z

Babel Fair Boutique

Summers in Ibiza, winters in the Swiss Alps, and lost weekends in Jamaica.

Or, in your case, exotic-subway-smell mornings followed by Talladega Nights.

Just hope you catch Erica Kiang’s travel bug at new globally minded Nolita boutique Babel Fair.

While setting up shop in a playful, clubhouse setting with canary cubbyhole shelving, Kiang’s been racking up frequent buyer miles to find clothes, accessories, and toys that haven’t previously crossed U.S. customs.

Among the souvenirs-for-the-taking: a rabbit fur vest made by a Bolivian craftsman, hammock-like cotton necklaces woven by Brazilian designer Luisa Herculano, and sculptural pumps from Korea’s Heavy Machine.

Kitsch seekers will covet the smells-like-happiness Smiley perfume or gem-encrusted cell phone sticker.

Oh, you know, it’s big in Japan.

Babel Fair, 260 Elizabeth Street, between Houston and Prince Streets (646-360-3685 or babelfair.com).

Photo: Courtesy of Babel Fair

Get Pumped

2009-11-16T14:15:00Z

Easy Does It: How to Change a Flat Tire

We’re always looking for a reason to hang out with hunks. Especially if it requires flexing, moaning, and pushing.

So it only made sense to find a muscley beefcake to teach us how to change a busted tire for our next Easy Does It how-to video.

Don’t be intimidated by the task at hand: Fixing a flat is actually really easy — and totally beats waiting for AAA or flagging down a sketchy truck driver. Plus, we figure self-sufficiency (especially if you’re in BFE) is always a good policy.

Now it’s time for a little pump and grind.

To submit questions you’d like us to answer in our next Easy Does It video, e-mail easydoesit@dailycandy.com. Feel free to ask us anything (anything!).

Ya Shoulda Put a Hat on It

2009-11-13T14:45:00Z

Albertus Swanepoel Custom Hats

Attention all pea heads, pumpkins, and thunder domes.

There’s really no good excuse for going hatless. Especially now that Albertus Swanepoel is offering bespoke toppers from his charming Midtown studio.

In today’s video, the South African milliner-to-the-designers gives us the rundown (in his immeasurably sexy voice), taking measurements, picking fabric, and choosing a style that best suits your face. We’re talking old-school fedoras and cloches, modern turbans, straw hats, and even headgear for weddings.

His wares start at about $300, but we bet you’ll feel inspired just being in his presence (it’s no wonder Marc Jacobs, Proenza Schouler, and Alexander Wang call him a fave). And you’ll field compliments as soon as you walk outside.

Just don’t get a big head about it.

To make an appointment for a custom hat, e-mail a@albertusswanepoel.com or call 212-629-1090. For more information, go to albertusswanepoel.com. To buy a ready-made hat, go to net-a-porter.com.

Let's Take It Slows

2009-11-13T14:15:00Z

Split Pea and Okra Fritter Recipe from Detroit's Slows Bar B Q

You’ve never been the type to fritter things away. Until now. Down at Slows Bar B Q, Detroit’s destination for all things slathered in saucy sauce and washed down with craft beer, chef Brian Perrone’s split pea and okra fry-ups make a scrumptious start to any meal.

Split Pea and Okra Fritters
Makes 25-30 fritters

Ingredients
2 c. green split peas, cooked and cooled
4 c. baby spinach, packed
½ c. hot sauce
¼ c. buttermilk
6 eggs
2 tbsp. kosher salt
1 tbsp. sugar
2 tbsp. baking powder
¼ c. yellow cornmeal
3 c. all-purpose flour, plus a little more
8 c. okra, sliced

1. Combine split peas and spinach in food processor, add hot sauce and buttermilk, process until smooth. Transfer to large bowl.

2. Whisk in eggs; add salt, sugar, baking powder, and cornmeal.

3. Whisk in flour a little at a time until mixture is not too loose, not too firm.

4. Fold in okra.

5. Drop by rounded tablespoon into 350º oil, fry until golden brown and cooked all the way through. Serve immediately.

Slows Bar B Q, 2138 Michigan Avenue, at Fisher Freeway West, Detroit (313-962-9828‎ or slowsbarbq.com).

Photo: Courtesy of Greg Holm

The Weekend Guide

2009-11-12T14:45:00Z

What to Do This Weekend

Smile! This weekend our favorite cafe/store/tattoo parlor adds bar to the list.

GET LIT
Indie Bookstore Week
What: Author readings, discounts, and more from neighborhood booksellers.
Why: Good reads and free snacks, like cookies baked by Katherine Yang of Prune.
When: Fri.-Sun.
Where: Bookstores across the city; go to ibnyc.org/calendar for times and locations.

SHOP
Surface to Air Annual Sale
What: Subtly cool clothing and jewelry from the Paris/New York label at 50-60 percent off.
Why: No shirt, no shoes, no surface.
When: Fri.-Sun., noon-7 p.m.
Where: 5 Crosby St., b/t Howard & Grand Sts., ste. 6d.

SPIT (and SWALLOW)
Around the World in 80 Sips
What: Bottlenotes assembles fourscore new and indie vintages from five continents. (Yes, China makes wine.)
Why: Artisanal cheeses and Salumeria Rosi meats prevent hangovers; a portion of proceeds benefits Robin Hood Foundation.
When: Fri., 6:30-8:30 p.m. DailyCandy readers get $10 off $60 tickets purchased before 2 p.m. Friday. (Enter code DAILYCANDY online.)
Where: 583 Park Ave., b/t 63rd & 64th Sts.

DISTRESS
DailyCandy Hosts Denim After Dark
What: Hang with us at Madewell, distress some denim, snack on sweets from Tbsp, and shake it to DJ Justin Carter’s live disco set.
Why: A 20 percent discount at the shop plus styling tips (and swilling) with DailyCandy editors.
When: Thurs., 7-9 p.m.
Where: 486 Broadway, at Broome St. (212-226-6954).

PEEP
Uncertainty
What: A Sliding Doors-esque plot structure follows young lovers Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Lynn Collins as they toss a coin to decide their fate on a hot Fourth of July in NYC.
Why: Choose your own adventure.
When: Opens Fri.
Where: IFC Center, 323 Sixth Ave., at W. 3rd St. (212-924-7771).

SHUCK
Saved Seats at The Mermaid Oyster Bar
What: New spin-off of beloved Mermaid Inn is reserving three tables every night from now until next Thursday for DC readers. Mention DailyCandy when booking.
Why: Bisques, ceviches, fried clams, and sixteen varieties on the half shell.
When: Mon.-Fri., 5:30-11 p.m.; Sat., 5:30-midnight; Sun., 5-10 p.m.
Where: 79 MacDougal St., at Bleecker St. (212-260-0100).

The Weekend Guide

2009-11-12T14:15:00Z

What to Do This Weekend

Drink up.

CARRY
Wine Totes
What: Carry vino in these perfectly sized cotton bags. They’ve got designs just for Bordeaux, Rioja, and Napa Valley wines.
Why: Beats a paper bag.
Where: Online at maptote.com.

MAKE
All-Natural NyQuil
What: The handsome Hot Knives blogger guys devised a recipe using booze, mint leaves, green chili, and ginger that’ll show your cold who’s boss.
Why: It’s good going down.
Where: Online at urbanhonking.com.

SHOP
Castor & Pollux
What: NYC-based store is bringing its equine-themed clothes, accessories, and antiques to the Net. Designers include Filippa K, Acne, and United Bamboo.
Why: Start horsin’ around.
Where: Online at castorandpolluxstore.com.

USE
Cell Phone Radiation Protection
What: These cases purport to be the first of their kind to reduce radiation from your cellular.
Why: Don’t fry your brain.
Where: Online at pongresearch.com.

EAT
Bobbysue’s Nuts
What: Delish organic snacks are the perfect combo of savory and sweet (even the It’s Raining Chocolate variety). A portion of sales goes to help homeless animals.
Why: You’ll love deez nuts.
Where: Online at bobbysuesnuts.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Kate Mathis

Easy Does It: DIY Denim Distressing

2009-11-11T22:30:00Z

Future Perfect

2009-11-11T17:00:00Z

Top Ten Destinations for 2010

Last week we announced our partnership with Black Tomato. Today we’re showing what it can do: get you to the destinations everyone’s going to be talking about next. (P.S. to those who haven’t booked holiday trips yet: Look. how. easy.)

Here are the top ten for 2010.

Colombia is the perfect cocktail of sea (Caribbean), mountains (Andes), and rain forest (Amazon). In Cartagena, check into Sofitel Santa Clara, then wander cobbled streets to gaze at brightly colored buildings, watch spectacular sunsets from Cafe del Mar on the harbor, and have dinner at Club de Pesca (order mahimahi). End your visit snorkeling crystal blue waters while recuperating in a stunning ecohab in the cliffs above the Parque Nacional Tayrona beaches. Details.

Safaris always deliver, especially in Botswana, where the flood plains of the Okavango Delta are home to elephants, lions, wildebeest, giraffes, and buttloads of wild cats. Bond with the beasts from a different perspective on HMS Zib, a spanking-new houseboat that cruises the river. At Zarafa Camp, you can sleep in a four-poster bed, relax in a free-standing copper tub, and snooze by roaring open-stone fires. Details.

If you want to turn a classic on its head, set your compass to the land Down Under, which has so much more than the well-publicized East Coast. Western Australia has laid-back charm, beautiful beaches, and rugged landscapes. Start at The Richardson Hotel in Perth, then head up the coast to Ningaloo Reef to swim with whale sharks, surf alongside dolphins, and take in mesmerizing sunsets at wine tastings. From the ecotents at Sal Salis, it’s a quick kayak ride to the reef’s fish, turtles, and manta rays. Details.

Since Turkey is outside the euro, your budget will stretch further. European Capital of Culture Istanbul will be throbbing next year and, when combined with Bodrum and Cappadocia, mixes ancient and modern. In Istanbul, stay at Tomtom Suites in the historic Pera area for incredible views of the rooftops and harbor. Or across the water on the Asian side at Sumahan for huge suites with funky fireplaces and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Bosphorus. Look out Côte d’Azur: Bodrum’s up-and-coming beach hotspots Cesme (your hotel: 7800) and Türkbükü (book Maçakizi) have sugar white sand and emerald waters and are the coolest place to top up your tan in style. In Cappadocia, take a balloon ride tour of the stunning lunar landscapes and ancient caves, then recover from it all at Anatolian Houses. Details.

Rounding out the list: lost cities in Syria, volcano surfing in Nicaragua, spiritual awakening in Bhutan, maharaja living in India, lunar landscapes in Chile, and wildebeest migrations in Tanzania.

The got-there-first bragging rights are yours for the taking.

For more information and help booking trips, go to blacktomato.co.uk.

Photos: Courtesy of Black Tomato; Courtesy of Ningaloo Reef

Quite the Cover-Up

2009-11-11T14:45:00Z

Take Off Your Clothes Clothing

On the nakedness continuum, you fall somewhere between never nude and natural nudist.

But with Take Off Your Clothes, a line of tees and dresses handmade in Red Hook by Ben Reingold, you’ll happily oblige.

In this peep show, nothing is quite what it seems (which is what you’d expect from a fellow who interned with cheeky conceptual designers Rebecca Turbow and Mary Ping). A cowl-neck top can flip into a hooded minidress; a draped dress with pockets is actually two T-shirts sewn together; and a pair of sweats gets reincarnated as an avant-garde shrug.

The shredded striped tees and peek-a-boo-back tunic strike somewhere between fleshbot and aspiring gallerist. And foxy leggings with neoprene zipper pockets will get hearts pumping — although they don’t debut till later this season.

We’re just spreading the nudes.

Available at Eva New York, 355a Bowery (212-925-3890 or evanewyork.net); online at takeoff-yourclothes.com.

Photo: Meg Wachter / Courtesy of Take Off Your Clothes

Take Off Your Clothes Fall 2009 Collection

2009-11-11T14:30:00Z