A Stylist’s Tale | Adventures in Manhattan
The Manhattan Adventure
Ever since my 20s, when I was incredibly lucky to attend school and live in Manhattan, I’ve found New York City to be the epitome of my hopes and dreams. I knew at the ripe age of nine that I would end up in this magical, albeit devilish, city.
At 19, I moved to Manhattan. It was a humbling adventure. I transitioned from the sheltered streets of Washington, DC, to the mystical streets of Manhattan. Quite the journey.
Image via @christinaconiglio
While in the city, my boyfriend at the time suggested a part-time job alongside school. The sartorial streets oozed chicness and inspiration at almost every corner. I attended class on the UES in the morning and journeyed to work in SoHo after. The streets became my playground, and I reveled in my morning walks on Madison, lunches with my mother and grandmother at Sant Ambroeus between classes, afternoon tea at the Plaza, perusing the enchanting floors at Bergdorf, random interactions with celebrity clients, and Sundays wandering around The Met or The Whitney with my bf. After several years as a stylist in SoHo and intense training, I developed a keen eye for design and a unique sense of style.
Discovering Coniglio Palm Beach
Image via www.conigliopalmbeach.com
Christina Coniglio’s sketches for LoveShackFancy’s collections in the early 2000s mesmerized me with her attention to detail, unique take on the body, and innovative ways to wear her designs. Typically, you'd see similar sketches by major fashion houses like Chanel or Valentino, so I was delighted and inspired to see such young talent. I knew she would eventually design her own collection because someone with that much talent shouldn’t waste it. I was elated when I heard the news of her new store in Palm Beach. After numerous attempts, I finally scored two core pieces from the collection—true staples. Christina designs with her own unique sense of style in mind. Each piece can be styled to be functional, sustainable, and inclusive with a little tuck of the ruffle or a bow made of bunny ears. The collection is multifunctional.
In the past two quarters, luxury fashion sales have declined due to a lack of newness; the collections seem very similar and safe. I find a collection like Christina’s to be not only a movement with its free sizing and inclusivity but also an investment in yourself. The collection is shareable, wearable, and truly unique, which I think is the biggest component of the brand.
Looking Forward
Recently, I have noticed that my clients are looking for their summer uniform, so as a stylist, I am always on the lookout for new brands for all shapes and sizes. Christina’s collection is not only for the bohemian beach babe or “It Girl” but for mothers, sisters, brothers, babes, and husbands. I can’t wait to see what she creates with her community next.
Image via @conigliopalmbeach