Winter is here!

And you know what that means. IT'S EFFIN' COLD. But there are perks to cold weather. For example, epic snowball fights, hot chocolate, and a warm fireplace. And then there are miserable things about cold weather, such as blizzards. Like the day-after-Christmas blizzard of 2010. The one I got stuck in while driving through New Jersey (which is the pits). But I'm going to use my winter experience as an excuse to share this cute illustration by Lauren Bishop. I discovered her years ago, and often find myself wandering to her website to check out new fabulous works of art.

(disclaimer: the snowstorm I got stuck in looked nothing like this. But we can pretend.)

I love checking out independent fashion illustrators. Seeing the different styles and techniques of the individual artist really inspires me. Lauren Bishop definitely exhibits a certain grace with a somewhat retro flair in her work that I am drawn to, and her use of colors, prints, and space is exquisite and consistent. Each drawing has such an intense personality. I especially like the elegant lady shown above, and she was the perfect image of the romantic winter. The coat print kinda reminds me of a winter storm, but it's contained within the silhouette, and therefore becomes elegant and beautiful. Perhaps I am merely overanalyzing... but Lauren Bishop is definitely worth checking out. You can view her website here: www.laurenbishopillustration.co.uk

PS- anytime you're feeling down, think about a box of kittens~

Goodbye to autumn...

The warm weather has LONG since gone, and winter is already announcing its arrival. Up here in the good 'ole northeast, it feels like fall lasted an entire 2 weeks before it skipped town. But don't let the cold keep you from having a good time! All over the city, shops and markets are preparing for the holiday season. I've already found some neat places to go and exciting things to do for some old fashioned winter fun!

1. FREE-ICE SKATING!
You remember Bryant park? The Southwest porch, the fountain, and a huge field of grass for picnics, movie showings, and massive yoga sessions? Since chilly weather rolled in, the park has been completely transformed into a holiday wonderland! A huge ice-skating rink has been set up and the entire facility has been set up as a picturesque winter getaway, with spruce trees, a bar and lounge, gift shops, and old-school holiday music. A relaxing, yet fun experience.


2. HOT CHOCOLATE!
Nothing beats hot chocolate when its cold outside. It'll warm your hands and your insides as soon as you take the first sip. But you can't just drink any old swiss miss this season. Hop over to Chocolate by the Bald Man and sample Max Brenner's version of the perfect hot chocolate, chocolate shots, or any kind of chocolate, because it's all DELICIOUS. You can get a cup of their creamy, real hot chocolate at their restaurant in Union square, or at their booth at Bryant park.


3. Holiday Markets!
You know you need to get that Christmas shopping done, but you don't want to get your family and friends any old gift. Check out some of the Holiday Markets that have popped up around New York City. There are the shops littered around the skating rink at Bryant park, as well as a in a few other well known places, such as Union square, Columbus circle, even Grand Central Station! So no matter what part of Manhattan you're in, some good shopping is right around the corner! Check one out!



images courtesy of google