I used to work regularly in the Bryant Park area in New York City and, when weather permitted, would walk to work through Central Park and down Fifth Avenue. The path from 59th to 42nd St. is one chic stretch and on sunny days when I was especially dreading going into a dank office only to sit in meetings all day, I would daydream about the perfect way to spend my afternoon. Perhaps a stop in Henri Bendel for a wardrobe revamp or maybe I’d fancy a new iPhone 5 at the Apple store? Then again, there’s breakfast at Tiffany’s or a quick turn on 53rd to check out the latest exhibit at MoMa. If time were endless and money were no object, oh the fun I’d have…
But who’s to say a gal shouldn’t treat herself every once in a while? And with crisp fall weather upon us, it seems there’s no better time to embrace Avenue offerings than now. For your shopping convenience, I’ve put together a list of 5th Ave.’s finest – miles and miles of daydreams edited down to the most luxurious, (semi) realistic picks for working stiffs everywhere.
From Bill Murray to George Clooney, Mary-Kate to Bette Midler, and every U.S. President since FDR except for George W. Bush (bit of trivia for you), 21 Club is no stranger to famous diners with very good taste. Time to add your name to the list. With a recent $2 million renovation to the Puncheon Room, 21 Club is just as buzz-worthy as it’s ever been (albeit slightly off the 5th Avenue strip). For lunch, the “21” Lobster Roll in the Bar Room is NEVER a bad idea. 21 West 52nd St., 212-582-7200.
For the perfect blowout, modern manicure, or simply a relaxing oasis away from the NYC madness, look no further than Salon AKS. If you’re lucky enough to get into partner Susanna Romano’s chair, you can expect a cut like no other and a new best friend when you leave. Other services include waxing, eyebrows and makeup – this is the city’s premiere salon with the address to prove it. 689 5th Avenue, 212-888-0707.
It doesn’t get much more magical or nostalgic than The Plaza Hotel. Many a memory has been made over high tea in The Palm Court (and many more after hours at The Rose Club). Because this IS a fashion website, we’d be remiss not to mention shops including Morganthal Frederics, Assouline Books, and Douglas Hannant for any bride-to-be. The Plaza’s latest offering is La Palestra, a Frank Gehry-designed holistic health and fitness center that must be seen to believe. But who has time to exercise when there’s a whole Avenue waiting outside to be conquered? 768 5th Avenue, 212-759-3000.
Via: Fifth Avenue's Finest: Closed Set with Julie Bensman