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It is a free French film festival in New York City Parks that began on June 2nd. No, don’t hate us, you still have time to go. Here is the schedule. Yes, you missed some good movies, but there are some real “œuvre d’art”you should really see. Here we go, the complete schedule:

FILMS ON THE GREEN | 2017 FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

All films are in French with English subtitles, except for the film that will be screened on July 12^th, which is in French and English with Spanish subtitles. 
Screenings begin at sunset.

June 2 – Central Park (79^th St & Fifth Ave): Potiche (Trophy Wife), by Ozon, selected by Wanda Sykes

June 9- Washington Sq. Park: Tey (Today) by Gomis, selected by Saul Williams

June 16 – Washington Sq. Park: La Traversée de Paris by Autant-Lara, selected by Amy Hargreaves

June 23 – Transmitter Park (Brooklyn): Mauvais Sang by Carax, selected by Wes Anderson

June 30 – Transmitter Park (Brooklyn): Contempt by Godard, selected by Jim Jarmusch

July 7 – Tompkins Sq. Park: La Cérémonie by Chabrol, selected by Matthew Weiner

July 12 – J. Hood Wright Park (West 173th St): The Science of Sleep by Gondry (2006), presented in partnership with the Mexican Cultural Institute of New York (screening in French and English with Spanish subtitles).

July 14 – Tompkins Sq. Park: Port of Shadows by Carné, selected by Laurie Anderson

July 21 – Riverside Park, Pier I (at 70^th St): Lumière d’été by Grémillon, selected by Matías Piñeiro

July 28 – Riverside Park, Pier I (at 70^th St): A Trip to the Moon by Méliès followed by Elena and Her Men by Renoir, selected by Isabella Rossellini

Sept. 7 – Columbia University (at 116^th St): The Wild Child by Truffaut, selected by James Ivory, presented in partnership with the Columbia Maison Française

So you want to spend the day acting like a Parisian? Perhaps you’re a bit of a Francophile looking to sate your French tastes. Maybe you’re dying for a vacation, but a trip to Eiffel Tower is out of your budget. Or, even better yet, you’re trying to plan the perfect date night for a special someone or your gal pals. Whatever your mission, we’re here to help.

Before we even start listing destinations and restaurants and events, let’s first cover a bit of ground, here. Parisians are a breed all their own. Similar to New Yorkers in many ways, sure, but very different in their own regard. If you want to aim for authenticity, consider nailing the “Parisian look.”

According to Marie Claire author Susie Moore, who lived in France, “It is all about the timeless, well-cut, and classic look – snug jeans, tailored blazers, classic trench coat, cashmere sweaters and little black dresses. They obsess over fabric too—it has to feel expensive (even if it’s not)!”

Those little details — like the French silk scarf hand-me-down from grandma or the effortless chignon – make all the difference.

Finally, you’ve got to nail the attitude, too. This cheeky article at Garance Dore insists there are a few keys to being a proper Parisian. For starters, you’ve got to turn your nose up a little bit at tourists, even if you’re a tourist yourself. Blend, walk with confidence, and act like you belong. Also adopt a “woe is the world” stance, and make an effort to engage in healthy complaining about the state of things these days. It’s the Parisian way to bond.

Another must: frankness. Flattery only gets you so far, but the cold hard truth shall set you free. And finally, you mustn’t go without a glass of wine in your hand for any extended period of time. It’s preferred that, whilst sipping, you passionately converse about current hot topics. A Parisian is always well versed. Mix in a little bit of that complaining and you’ll have it nailed, for sure.

Food and Drink

Now that you’ve got the commandments down, it’s time to go along your merry way. We recommend these three restaurants to start, but of course New York has plenty more to offer. We chose these restaurants because they’re not over-the-top expensive, but still promise comforting Parisian cuisine and the authentic charm of a neighborhood bistro.

La Mangeoire

1008 Second Ave. at 53rd Street
New York New York
212-759-7086

La Mangeoire is noted for its cozy, romantic charm and authentic French rustic charm. Since its inception 35 years ago, the food has consistently been ranked high by restaurant-goers. For a real bargain and delicious dining experience, try the lunch or dinner Prix Fixe, $25 and $45 per person, respectively.

Demarchelier Restaurant

50 E. 86th Street
New York New York
212-249-6300

Opened in 1978, Demarchelier Restaurant is another go-to for New Yorkers looking for a genuine French experience. They now offer a completely organic menu, in addition to their regular menu, which also makes it popular among the environmentally conscious.

Maison-Kayser

Multiple Locations – New York City

We’re putting Maison-Kayser on this list for several reasons. First, it’s an “authentic artisanal French Boulangerie.” That means the baked goods, including perfected French bread, are made and baked on site all day long. Second, because there are numerous locations, this is an accessible one for many. Consider dropping in for just desert, or opt for the full blown meal. P.S. They also deliver.

La Sirene

558 Broome Street
New York, NY 10013
212-925-3061

Finally, we must mention La Sirene. We’re particularly fond of their BYOB ($10 cork fee), and the menu is a delight. It’s “crafted to reflect the best of South France” and promises delectable bites thanks to in season, fresh ingredients.

Events and Destinations

Food out of the way, let’s discuss some other ways you can get your Parisian on in the Big Apple.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

This is a no brainer destination for both tourists and residents alike. To make it a truly French experience, swing by the French Impressionist exhibits and soak up the culture.

Jean-Claude Carrière Cine Salon

On Tuesdays through June and July, FIAF is hosting what they call a Cine Salon. “Catch some of the most subversive and surreal films of the past 50 years. In this series, works by leading directors—including Buñuel, Malle, and Godard—are united by one common thread: the imaginative French screenwriter Jean-Claude Carrière.” Dates include Tuesdays, June 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 and July 7, 14, 21 & 28. Get more info on the website.

Bastille Day

Bastille Day, France’s national holiday, takes place on July 12 this year. New York will host a street fair on 60^th street between Fifth and Lexington Avenues from noon to 5 p.m. “This year’s edition will include an even greater line-up of exciting events, with new activities including a champagne tasting in our beautiful Skyroom, free film screenings for kids and families, and talented performers making their Bastille Day debut on the main stage,” says the website. Get more info via the link.

By Wendy Rose Gould

Opened in October of 1904 and closed in 1945, the City Hall subway stop has recently been opened again to the public. Visitors were able to check out the gorgeous tiles, stunning skylights, and original chandeliers of the preserved stop. The last tour date was February 16, and the next one is April 12. Sadly, tickets have sold out for the April showing, but get your fingers ready to click purchase for the upcoming summer tour. The dates will be announced soon. Meanwhile, check out the story by Curbed and ogle over the photographs posted there.

“Tours are led roughly 16 times a year to groups of about 40 people at a time. To attend, you have to have to be a member of the New York Transit Museum and be ready to act quickly. Tickets for the City Hall station tours cost $40 each and always sell out fast,” says Curbed.

City Hall subway station

City Hall subway station entrance

Ticket office, City Hall subway station

City Hall subway station name plate

By Wendy Rose Gould

Image credit: via Flickr: Ed Yourdon City Hall Subway Stop, Library of Congress

The Wage Board and Governor Cuomo have proposed a wage increase to $8.50 per hour from $4.90 per hour for tipped laborers. While some waiters around the city may be rejoicing, it does spell some major changes for waitstaff, restaurant owners and their patrons.

For example, some establishments are toying with the idea of dropping the tipping system completely, others have discussed cutting employees’ hours, and some restaurants are looking at price increases on their menu upwards of 20%.

Read more about the new legislation and what it means for all involved.

By Wendy Rose Gould

Image credit: Flickr: David Tan

It’s National Pizza Day, AKA the day you can gobble up as many slices as you want without regret because hey, it’s a holiday!

The Twitter world is certainly abuzz with talk of the best pizza in New York City, and it seems as if everyone’s got a (very strong) opinion of their own regarding who’s got the yummiest pie in town.

Today we’ve learned that if you want to create a debate in NYC, all you have to do is ask a bunch of people which pizza place is truly the most delicious. To help us decide — and to inspire your dining options for tonight and every night moving forward — we’ve compiled a list and created a poll. Cast your vote now!

Lombardi Pizza
@Bill25_says votes for Lombardi Pizza: “America’s first pizzeria (1905) is still offering its beautiful coal-oven smoky-crusted pizza topped with San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil.”

Artichoke Pizza
@mattpcharles writes, “Happy #NationalPizzaDay Me in awe @artichokepizza last night. Not been before, ’d it!”

Harry’s Italian
@AdrianaMurillo says, “My kingdom for a piece of pepperoni and garlic pizza from @HarrysItalian Battery Park #NYC”

Joe’s Pizza NYC
@MonarchLounge actually listed a few of their NYC favorites, including Artichoke, Joe’s Pizza NYC and Robertas Pizza.

Don Antonio Pizza
@Peproman: “If you come from US and want to eat real pizza go to @DonAntonioPizza in New York.”

We’ve taken these considerations into hand, and have also added a few more to our list. Vote and let us know which is your preferred place. And if you don’t see your #1 in the poll, leave a comment!

15 of The Best Pizza Places in NYC

Artichoke Pizza
328 E 14th St
New York, NY 10003

Co.
230 9th Ave
New York, NY 10001

Don Antonio Pizza
309 West 50th Street (at 8th Ave.)
New York, NY 10019

Franny’s
348 Flatbush Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11238

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
1 Front St
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Harry’s Italian
2 Gold Street
225 Murray Street
Concourse Level Rockefeller Plaza

Joe’s Pizza
7 Carmine St.
New York, NY 10014

John’s of Bleecker Street
278 Bleecker St
New York, NY 10014

Lombardi’s Coal Oven Pizza
32 Spring St
New York, NY 10012

Lucali Pizza
575 Henry St
New York, New York 11231

Patsy’s Pizza
2287 1st Ave
New York, NY 10035

Paulie Gee’s
60 Greenpoint Avenue
New York, New York 11222

Roberta’s Pizza
261 Moore St
Brooklyn, NY 11206

Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano
1524 Neptune Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11224

Zero Otto Nove
2357 Arthur Ave
Bronx, NY 10458

By Wendy Rose Gould

Image credit: Flickr: Dennis Wilkinson

We live in an interesting time.

The same thing was also said amidst the boom of print media, especially when haute couture glossies first hit the market and the whole fashion industry became more of an “event” as opposed to a utilitarian means to an end (read: being clothed).

I’d argue that when online blogging hit the scene roughly 15 years ago — the late ’90s — fashion underwent a notable shift. Once “the people” received a megaphone (in this case, the Internet), their amplified voices slowly began competing with the opinions of fashion designers and magazines across the globe. Don’t get me wrong, to this day designers and glossies certainly have a huge say regarding what we wear, but the whole social aspect of the Internet indubitably turned the style world on its head.

Fast forward another five-ish years or so — into the early 2000s — when “all about me” social media websites such as MySpace were at their height. The early 2000s also marked the dawn of the Facebook era, a website which has a bigger influence on the world than most even realize. It was also around this time when deep and thought provoking online diaries shared between close friends (hello, LiveJournal) lost their luster and lifestyle blogs gained momentum.

Today, you can’t go anywhere on the web without running into a blogger or a niche website that focuses specifically on fashion/style or beauty. And with the prevalence of smart phones and Apps (fashion-focused and otherwise, including Instagram), we can’t even pick up the phone without seeing what other people are wearing or buying.

This social media/Internet whirlwind frenzy makes me wonder: Are we better dressed now compared to 10 years ago?

The Stylish City’s own founder, Mirela, says: “Everybody — stores, bloggers, fashion magazines, etc — has “looks” to draw inspiration from. There are literally thousands of bloggers, personal stylists, celebrities and reality shows we are exposed to every day.”

This undoubtedly affects our decisions when we walk into a store or peer into our closet. With the potential for more people to see how we’re dressed, are many of us less apt to throw on scroungy sweats even while sauntering around the house? And do we make better fashion choices now as a result of being exposed to the more fashionable who want to put themselves out there for the world to see?

Another question I have, in regard to the Internet/social media influence:  Do we approach fashion on a more “individual” level these days? Or does the influx of online/media inspiration cause us to all sort of look like each other?

Personally, I think cities such as NYC, where there a lot of people coming from all walks of life, are more likely to dress individually, but there’s still this “NYC vibe” that permeates all fashion in the city.

Perhaps the boom of social media has made us dress better as a collective whole, but with that have we lost a sense of individuality when it comes to fashion choices?

What do you think? Have your wardrobe decisions changed over the past 10 to 15 years as a direct result of the Internet and social media? Has it gotten worse? Or have you sort of shrugged your shoulders and not changed much at all? Share your comments below!

By Wendy Rose Gould

New York City’s hottest sample sales are nothing short of pandemonium. Various fashion blogs feature weekly reviews of the hottest sample sales. They’re full of pictures and prices, providing our beloved readers with an accurate opinion and description of the sale at hand, exhibiting sufficient reason to attend or skip the sale at hand, as to not waste their time.  It sounds like a pretty simple job, right? Wrong. It may sound fun to shop for a living, and don’t get me wrong – it is! – but with all good must come bad, and it’s about time we point it out for no other reason than to give fashionistas a behind the scenes glimpse to an average work day for a New York City sample sale reviewer.

For well over two years I have been covering sample sales, visiting every variety, shape and size sale you could possibly dream up. I can easily predict the crowd, selection, prices, and overall environment before even stepping foot into the mayhem.

However, despite the crazed fashionistas and deal hungry shoppers, who merely foam at the mouth for an 80% off pair of heels, the biggest grief givers within sample sales are the organizers and employees themselves. This isn’t the case for all organizers mind you (namely 260 Fifth – they are by far the most professional), but as for the other half, they seem to get their kicks by barking at shoppers, forcing them to stand in inclement weather for hours at a time, being inconsiderate with the prized designer bags, laptops, and leather jackets that customers are required to check upon entering, and perhaps worst of all, placing dressing rooms off limits, forcing shoppers to strip down to their unmentionables as they try on discounted jeans, blouses, and well, even bathing suits. What else are they supposed to do given the no refund or exchange policy? After all these years the sample sale has been eternalized as a hubbub of rabid and crazed shoppers who are itching for deals, but are the organizers actually the ones to blame for inducing this behavior?

Most sales also have a strict “no photography”  policy, and balk when they see journalist like myself scribbling away in her notebook. Perhaps they hope that without press, a mystique will be added to the sale and in the end draw in more curious customers. At one recent sale in particular–which shall remain nameless– they were not allowing press inside. Being that The Stylish City is relied on for delivering same day reviews, no one was going to stop me from entering this sale. Well, aside from the estimated 2.5-hour wait that is. Using my vast sample sale knowledge I found a loophole. There was about 5-minutes before the doors opened to the public, and boxes of merchandise were still being wheeled in through their loading dock. Sneaky me tip toed toward the side entrance and made my best attempt at “blending in” with the deliverymen. Walking slowly behind them I quickly ducked into a public bathroom before being snagged by security. While inside the restroom, I impatiently stared at my watch until opening time struck. As I heard the herds role in, I quickly scampered inside, successfully entering the hottest sample sale of the week without even having to wait a minute.

It’s true, sample sale shoppers can be rude, grabby, and exhibitionists. They don’t care who is in their way of a $20 Alexander Wang tee-shirt and they will most likely risk jail time for the discount. But as I mentioned, aside from the rabid fashionistas, the employees are those who immediately come to mind when envisioning the negative side to sample sale shopping.

By Caitlin Colford

Sometimes, I look at my two sultry felines and think to myself, “Wow. They really have it made.” And sometimes, just sometimes, I get a wee bit envious of their lavish catnaps on the fuzzy sheepskin rug in my bedroom, or the fact that they get free, organic food three times a day without having to lift a finger (or would that be paw?).

I’m getting off topic. Kind of. Only because instead of discussing cats, I’m writing today to talk to you about dogs. One dog, actually. A New York City poodle who goes by the name, “Charlie Girl.” This fabulous pooch lives an enviable life, as well, and is portrayed by her owner Elizabeth Frogel in her new, dynamic book, “Charlie Girl: Tails of a Very Original Poodle.” (Would that make her a VOP?)

The deluxe, illustrated book covers all the NYC shenanigans of a “lovable, curious and life-of-the-party poodle.” And yes — Charlie Girl is a real life dog whose owners are author Elizabeth and Elizabeth’s 10-year-old daughter Ava. Together, they live as a happy family in the Upper West Side art deco architectural icon, The Century.

A Little More About the Book:

Recalling the day Elizabeth brought her weeks-old puppy home to New York City, she beams, “During the ride back to town from the breeder, Charlie Girl was completely quiet and just nuzzled in my arms, but the minute we arrived in the City, she sat straight up and had this magical transformation. She was mesmerized by the lights. And she looked right into my eyes and smiled. I knew at that moment Charlie Girl would love New York and that we would have a great life together.”

Today (and in the book), Charlie Girl takes advantage of all the fun her glamorous city has to offer. From long sidewalk strolls with mom, frolicking with her puppy pals, going shopping, dining on delicious food, and taking in art exhibits, Charlie Girl is one happy canine.

The stylish watercolor illustrations by Ashley Quigg are inspired by the décor of Elizabeth’s apartment, historic and contemporary photographs.

A Little More About Elizabeth:

Elizabeth’s accomplishments were propelled by what she describes as “survival mode.” Divorce turned her life upside down, as it does with most people, but there was no self pity, only forward movement. She took charge and committed heart and soul to creating what is now the happiest time of her life.

Divorce allowed Elizabeth to live at her authentic best, and with encouragement from her family and a loyal group of strong friends, Elizabeth’s life started to shine like the Chrysler Building. Charlie Girl evolved out of sheer love. During the emotionally charged years when Elizabeth was trying to conceive a child, she developed her special bond with Charlie Girl, who served as a constant companion and partner in NYC adventures. Charlie Girl the book captures the essence of that pinnacle time.

Where to Buy:

Head to Bergorf-Goodman (who happens to be a character in the book, as well) if you’re interested in flipping through the pages or buying. Bergorf-Goodman is the exclusive NYC department store carrying Charlie Girl.

Not lucky enough to live near NYC’s Bergdorf-Goodman? The book is also available online at Amazon.com.

Charlie Girl supports the Puccini Foundation, which is dedicated to the hope of a future for pets and people – cancer free under one umbrella.

I love the concept of the Charlie Girl book because it’s lighthearted and breezy. I think we all need more lighthearted and breezy things in our lives, especially in a world where urgent deadlines reign supreme and coffee is gulped down for its caffeine properties (instead of enjoyed for its smooth textures and rich aromas. Hey, I’m a coffee and an animal person).

By Wendy Rose Gould