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    Where to Stay: The Surrey

    With all the time we spend shopping along Madison Avenue it’s a wonder that we have never considered those who do not live in the immediate vicinity. After several requests for hotel recommendations we are dedicating the entire week to uncovering the amazing places to stay along Madison Avenue.


    There are basically five hotels from which to choose — The Mark, The Surrey, The Carlyle, The Lowell, and Hôtel Plaza Athénée. Truth be told, the hotels are as varied as the boutiques along Madison Avenue. There isn’t a wrong choice among these establishments but we hope to help you find the place to stay that best represents your personal style.

    The Surrey 

    The Surrey hotel is an art lover’s dream destination. The property is located at 76th and Madison, which is right in the heart of Museum Mile. In addition to the surrounding museums, the hotel hosts an impressive modern art collection that is dispersed throughout the private and public spaces.


    The Surrey has all the furnishings and panache of a chic boutique hotel but without any of the pretense. Interior architect Lauren Rottet was agile in her ability to create a modern space that maintains sophistication and warmth. Upstairs, the rooms are furnished functionally and luxuriously.

    Each salon is very spacious and outfitted for ultimate comfort with a Duxiana bed and custom Sferra bedding. Every item is well edited and functional, as well as luxurious. The oversized desks are a working traveler’s dream.

    If you’re looking to find the perfect place to daydream you must check out the hotel’s rooftop garden. This 17th floor oasis is exclusive to hotel guests and select “members” from the neighborhood. This serene escape is the perfect spot to grab a light snack or drink before dinner– we suggest the Basil Martini.

    Downstairs, you can eat at Daniel Boulud’s world class restaurant, Cafe Boulud or grab a drink at the neighborhood’s favorite, Bar Pleiades. In addition, New York’s most indulgent spa just opened in the Surrey. Cornelia Spa, is best known for their decedent services and skilled staff. Personally, we can’t wait to try the Caviar and Oxygen Reparitive Quench facial.

    The hotel contains 190 salons, including 30 one-bedroom suites. Even the most jaded traveler will become giddy from the Penthouse and a Presidential Suites. Rooms range in price from about $400 to about $7500.

    The Surrey is clearly the destination of choice for well-heeled travelers and neighborhood residents needing an extra room for guests. If Coco Chanel were coming into town, this is where she would stay.

    Packing tip: Don’t forget your Metallic Silver Chanel Reissue

    Where to Stay: The Mark Hotel

    With all the time we spend shopping along Madison Avenue it’s a wonder that we have never considered those who do not live in the immediate vicinity. After several requests for hotel recommendations we are dedicating the entire week to uncovering the amazing places to stay along Madison Avenue.


    There are basically five hotels from which to choose — The Mark, The Surrey, The Carlyle, The Lowell,  and Hôtel Plaza Athénée. Truth be told, the Hotels are as varied as the boutiques along Madison Avenue. There isn’t a wrong choice among these establishments but we hope to help you find the place to stay that best represents your personal style.

    The Mark Hotel

    Our first stop is The Mark Hotel, which is located on 77th Street off of Madison Avenue. Walking into the lobby feels as if you received a gilded invitation from Vogue magazine to an exclusive event. Jacques Grange’s design is flawless and modern. There is no doubt that you’ve come to the right place. After all, you’re a lover of great design.

    Upstairs the rooms are toned down into a warm and inviting space to rest your shopping bags. Each suite has furnishings and details created by famed designers including, iRon Arad, Vladimir Kagan, Todd Eberle and Karl Lagerfeld. Each room has a private bar, which feature Sub-Zero refrigeration and black granite counters. The beds are custom-made and the linens are by Quagliotti, the fine Italian textile maker.

    Beyond the rooms, The Mark Hotel houses one of the most wanted reservation on the Upper East Side. The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges serves up some of the best food in the neighborhood and isn’t bad for star gazing either. On any given night you can spy Justin Timberlake, Tom Ford or Harvey Weinstein. 

    Our favorite perk of The Mark are the bicycles that guests can use to cruise the neighborhood or explore central park. Hotel rates range from about $360 to about $10,000 a night for the Signature Suite, which has four bedrooms and six bathrooms. Families, children, pets and long term stays are welcome.


    The hotel also includes a shoe shine kiosk by John Lobb, a full gym with trainers from neighborhood favorite, Punch Fitness Center and a Frederic Fekkai salon. So even if you don’t get your annual invitation to the Met Gala you can stay at The Mark and feel as if you are a Vogue editor.

    Packing Tip: Don’t forget your Celine Trapeze.

    The It-it: Bill Blass

    Amidst the loud environment of Twitter, Instigram, Facebook and, yes we’ll say it, blogs, there is something extra special about quiet elegance. The resurgence of the all-American brand, Bill Blass has us dreaming of days spent on Yachts and nights spent dancing at Les Caves Du Roy.

    We are especially taken with the designer’s Fall/Winter 2012 collection. First, we absolutely adore the contrast of navy and black. The gowns are classic but modern and the tailoring is sublime. The overall ascetic reminds us of the wonderful roots of the American designer.

    Longtime fans of Bill Blass include Sigourney Weaver, Candice Bergen, Barbra Streisand, Barbara Walters, Nancy Reagan and Jackie Onassis. Today Bill Blass’s designs can be found on Eve, Gabrielle Union and Nicole Scherzinger.

    Super Doctor: Dr. Jerry Lubliner

    We would like to congratulate Dr. Jerry Lubliner for being selected, for the fourth year in a row, as one of the “Super Doctors” in Orthopedic Surgery. This year, Dr. Lubliner was highlighted among all his peers in the latest edition of New York Super Doctors list in the New York Times Magazine.

    “Super Doctors” is a prized honor, which only includes the top 5% of New York City physicians among 30 specialties. In an interview with Dr. Lubliner he shared his gratitude for the prestigious recognition.


    Dr. Lubliner is currently the Chief of Sports Medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center and has over 27-years of surgical experience. He credits his professional achievement to his ability to quickly and accurately diagnose, treat and get his patients back to their sport.


    The operating table is always the last resort and is only recommended to about 10% of Dr. Lubliner’s patients. Known for his minimally invasive shoulder and knee surgeries, he is widely recognized by his peers as an expert in the treatment of ACLs, rotator cuffs and meniscal tears.


    Dr. Jerry Lubliner
    Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine
    215 E 73rd St # 1C
    (212) 249-8200


    Sponsored Post

    Discovering the UWS DSW

    By ManhattanMataHari

    Trekking to Union Square for your discount shoe fix is no longer necessary. This week, DSW opened  a megastore on 79th and Broadway and we couldn’t wait to sink our feet into the new location.

    The new DSW emporium transformed the former Filene’s Basement into a heel heaven. With three floors and over 30,000 pairs of shoes we had lofty hopes. On the ground floor to the far left of the store is a stash of designer shoes. Although Union Square seems to have a larger selection there were still plenty of shoes from which to choose.

    We quickly found some current style shoes from Miu Miu, Fendi, Prada and Giuseppe Zanotti. Miu Miu’s glitter peep toe sandaled heels and pebbled leather bow flats are $400. Buttery soft black leather Prada booties are a $550 and suede bow-embellished flats are $250. There are a few different styles of Ralph Lauren Collection loafers and flats in the $200 to $250 range, although we preferred the more funky Fendi flats for about the same price. Our favorite shoe was a classic Zanotti black leather flat with Swarovski crystal toe caps. They were still pricy at $400 but the retail price is $750.

    If you have some time to spare, be sure to head upstairs to the clearance section. We found some fun patent printed Emilio Pucci flats marked down 30% to $245 as well as an incredible pair of Dolce and Gabbana black suede stacked booties for $240.

    DSW Upper West Side
    2220 Broadway (at 79th street)
    917-746-9422

    Diamond Looking for Love

    The Love Lady is back!


    Missy from Divorce Your Jewels has the most stunning 3.01 carat, cushion cut diamond that’s looking to bring happiness to the perfect couple. The center diamond is G color and is surround by a halo of diamonds, which extend all the way around the shank of the ring.


    The ring was originally purchased by high school sweethearts who say that their relationship peaked during their college years. The couple recently agreed that it was better to find new loves. Now this ring needs a new love too. Between you and me, this is the perfect ring and it’s priced thousands less than any jewelry store. (Read: Forward this post to your boyfriend, now!)






    In addition, Missy has just received a new pre-owned Cartier Love bracelet.  Missy’s numerous dealings with authentic preowned Cartier jewelry, is what originally earned her the reputation as the Love Lady. You can see Missy’s full online jewelry store here.


    On the flip side, Missy is widely available to buy the jewelry items you once loved. Always remember, love lost can quickly turn into love gained.


    DivorceYourJewels.com
    Missy Schorr, the Love Lady
    917-846-9999

    Sponsored Post

    Robert Marc Summer Sale

    By ManhattanMataHari

    Eyewear favorite, Robert Marc is starting their summer sale on Thursday, July 26. Both sun styles and optical versions will be discounted 40% to 50% off retail.

    There are a variety of styles included in the markdown but most sale items fall within the 40% cut. Men’s aviator styles and funky unisex retro sunnies are $270 from $450 and ladies seasonal colored sunglasses are priced at about $285. If you’re looking for a new pair of optical frames, there are many contemporary acetate styles that are discounted to $237. There is even a scattering of traditional tortoise shell frames included in the markdown.

    Robert Marc stores are more prolific than Starbucks on Madison Avenue, with one spaced about every ten blocks. You can find your closest location by clicking here.

    Exploring Steps Off Madison

    Anyone who has traveled the world can recognize that Madison Avenue is a true gem among centers of world-class shopping. Yes, Rodeo Drive may have palm trees and Oak Street may be considered the Magnificent Mile but no other city has the style, fashion and assortment of Madison Avenue.

    Among the unique features of the Avenue are the hidden and diverse boutiques that are just steps off of Madison. For example, Marni is steps off Madison at 67th Street, Charlotte Olympia is steps off of Madison at 65th Street and Canturi Jewels is steps off of Madison at 66th Street.

    Preen at Fivestory

    As part of our exploration of the  boutiques that are just off Madison, we found some unexpected hidden gems. One of Madison Avenue’s newest additions, Fivestory (69th Street) is filled with items that are unique for both their style, variety and design. Tucked in every corner of the store you can find a covetable item from the Preen pre-fall collection Edie Parker clutches, there is something to inspire anyone who loves fashion.

    Over at Marina Rinaldi (69th Street) we were surprised to find a wide assortment of color used in the newest fall collection– reds, hot pinks, royal blues. Our favorite item, however, is a spruce green two piece gown with tulle and sequined overlay ($1670).

    Qiviuk Adeli Cardigan

    With one touch, you will fall in love with Qiviuk (58th Street), which is comprised of the downy fibers of Musk Ox. Qiviuk, which is pronounced Kiv-ee-uk, is a favorite among icons such as Queen Elizabeth II, Sarah Jessica Parker and The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. A favorite item of ours is the Adeli Cardigan ($1350 with fur, $950 without). Once you try it on you will not want to love another cold day without it.

    Ovando

    The floral designs found at Ovando (65th Street) are so much more than arrangements. Some might say they are works of modern art. Floral designer and event producer Sandra de Ovando is able to manipulate flowers in a way that feels more like sculpture than botanicals. Clients include, Hermes, The US Open Tennis Association, Donna Karan, Four Seasons, Saks Fifth Avenue, and of course, you!

    In addition to creating wonderful events and arrangements, Ovando always has an interesting window display. It’s often worth the extra few steps to peek on on what’s brewing.

    Charlotte Olympia

    Now we should look south, towards your toes, of course. We can’t understate how much we love Charlotte Olympia (65th Street). The boutique just opened this Spring but is already a neighborhood classic. The 750-square-foot space is decked out with suspended lights and trademark spiderwebs.

    To mark the London-based designer’s first store state-side, she created the Charlotte Olympia Priscilla Stars and Stripes heel. Could you imagine a more patriotic (and stylish) shoe?

    Robert Clergerie

    Speaking of shoes, uptown favorite Robert Clergerie (62th Street) is the apex of French style on Madison. The shoes are both fashionable and comfortable. (Imagine that!) For Fall, the store is stocked with fashionable chunky heels and lace-up flats. A favorite of ours is a black and white Rolo flat that resembles a bowling shoe.

    Madison Avenue and the stores in its vicinity are not only about feasts for your eyes but there are also wonderful sweets for your mouth. K Chocolatier by Diane Kron (69th Street) us a favorite among New Yorkers and travelers alike. The truffles and liquors are in-‘K’-redible.

    Reinstein/Ross

    If you’re looking for a literal gem, Reinstein/Ross (73rd Street) carries handmade gold jewelry that’s both modern and classic. If you don’t see exactly what you like within their extensive inventory, the boutique will happily collaborate with you to make an entirely custom piece.

    As you can see, the boutiques that are just steps off Madison are as interesting and varied as the ones directly on the Avenue. For your shopping ease, we compiled a list of side street stores that should not be missed.

    Steps Off Madison Boutiques

    Chocolate
    K Chocolatier 
    19
    East 69 Street
    212-861-2111
    Teuscher 25 East 61st Street  212-751-8482
    Consignment
    Roundabout 31 East 72nd Street  646-755-8009
    Eyewear
    Page & Smith Opticians  42 East 59th Street  212-759-8560
    Fashion
    45rpm  17 East 71 Street  212-737-5545
    Bottega Veneta Men  23 East 67 Street  212-879-5782
    Delle Celle  17 East 67th Street  212-744-5820
    Fivestory  18 East 69 Street  212-288-1338
    Marina Rinaldi  13 East 69 Street  212-734-4333
    Marni  21 East 67 Street  212-257-6907
    Perez Sanz  20 East 69 Street  212-249-5151
    Prada  45 East 57th Street  212-308-2332
    Qiviuk Boutique  40 East 58 Street  212-826-3388
    Florists
    L’Olivier Floral Atelier  19 East 76th Street   212-774-7676
    Ovando  19 East 65 Street  212-924-7848
    Handbags
    Anya Hindmarch  29 East 60th Street  212-750-3974
    Home
    Christian Liaigre  34 East 61 Street  212-201-2338
    Design Within Reach  27 East 62nd Street  212-888-4539
    de Vera  26 East 81 Street  212-288-2288
    Jewelry & Watches
    Canturi Jewels  42 East 66 Street  212-879-8800
    F.D.  21 East 65 Street  212-772-2440
    Eve Jewelry  17 East 70 Street   212-288-9011
    Reinstein/Ross  29 East 73rd Street  212-772-1901
    Stephen P. Kahan Ltd.  25 East 61st Street  212-750-3456
    Yarn
    String New York  33 East 65 Street  212-288-9276
    Shoes
    Charlotte Olympia  22 East 65 Street  212-744-1842
    Pretty Ballerinas  27 East 67 Street  212-744-4445
    RM Williams  46 East 59th Street  212-308-1808
    Robert Clergerie  19 East 62 Street  212-207-8600