NATTY [Life] STYLE: Gypset Gemini Travels to Tulum, Mexico

For my birthday this year, I decided to go all out to celebrate.  The theme: “Gypset Gemini” began with a big bash that included a tarot card reader and Mediterranean feast at a friend’s place in the city, and finished with a trip to Tulum, Mexico with my best girlfriends.

The term “Gypset” is a hybrid between Gypsy and Jetset - so Tulum was a perfect destination, with it’s eco-centric economy and rustic, bohemian charm…

Tulum is notorious for feeling more removed and relaxed than it’s noisy neighbors, Playa del Carmen and Cancun.  However – don’t be fooled by the thatched roofs and jungle backdrop.  This spot’s secret has been out for a while; and plenty of big city folk have since decamped to enjoy the simpler life - or just spend a few days off the grid and unplugged.  With this migration, comes a certain caliber of dining and shopping studded along the dirt roads and lush landscape.  Luckily, even those associated with celebrity restaurateurs (such as the insanely delicious Hartwood – owned by Peasant’s Eric Werner of NYC) are executed with such respect that they blend seamlessly into Tulum’s wild vibe.  That being said, I enjoyed every fish taco and michelada I had from the moment we landed; be it from a roadside stand, beach shack, or recommended dining “destination”.  So don’t be afraid to explore!

Speaking of exploring… Besides lying in the sun and stuffing your face with the best guacamole of your life, there is plenty to do in Tulum.  Located on the Riviera Maya (at the eastern end of the Yucatan Peninsula) – Tulum is home to several archeological sites housing Mayan ruins that have been impressively preserved through the decades.  While we didn’t make it as far inland as Coba, we did enjoy Zama’s spectacular bluff side views that are responsible for it’s name, meaning City of Dawn.

Not to be missed is the unique, natural wonder of the cenotes.  Created by collapsed limestone bedrock, these sinkholes reveal crystal clear groundwater from deep below the earth - occasionally reaching as deep as 100km!  There are several in the area, but after a morning tour at Zama, we drove across town to the Gran Cenote for our Ariel-mermaid-style adventure.  Stalactites reach from below and above – and birds and bats alike fluttered above our heads while we swam around in the glowing waters.  Believed to have magical powers, many locals visit daily – and I certainly did my best to soak up a little extra birthday magic...

On the way back through town, we stopped at Charlie’s where we loaded up on authentic Mexican cuisine before picking through the local shops for treasures like woven hammocks, richly embroidered clothes and textiles, silver and brightly painted pottery.  My favorite scores of the trip included an embroidered muslin dress (which, I later realized was meant for a 9 year old and consequently had to be expanded in the armpits lest I resemble a quasi-moto-scarecrow while wearing it) and an impeccably crafted, tan/white cowhide bag.  Each for less than the price of it’s counterpart at Zara.

When the sun sets and bedtime looms, there are dozens of boutique hotels to choose from along the resort strip, but don’t expect to see a Ritz Carlton, Best Western or any other big chain hotels of any kind (thank God!).  With the exception of Be Tulum and a few others, most of them don’t have air conditioning, and some even limit their electricity to certain hours.  So for those of you who hate to sweat, or can’t function without a hair dryer – bring a hat, wear a braid or just get over it.  We stayed at the limestone stacked Coqui Coqui, famous for it’s lux line of essential oils and fragrance.  The vibe was whisper quiet and relaxed, with spacious rooms and a concierge girl so hip we wanted to befriend her.  Amansala is well known for it’s yoga and bikini bootcamp programs, and Ahau Tulum offers hip digs at affordable rates.

[TIPS]

[PACKING]  Don’t bring heels of any kind, jeans or even makeup.  Do bring gauzy, lightweight dresses, cover-ups, flip-flops, straw hats and bohemian jewelry.  Bras and bikini tops optional.

[SHOPPING] There are loads of chic boutiques all up and down the resort strip.  For the most local, inexpensive and specialty crafts – head toward the north end.  And of course, in town there are tons of beautiful artisanal creations mixed with cheesy souvenirs for next to nothing.  Don’t be afraid to barter!

[BRING THE BUG SPRAY] The jungle landscape and tropical climate are a heaven for mosquitoes...and a nightmare for bare legs and arms.  On the beach there’s generally no problem, but around sunset on the jungle side it's like a plague of locusts every single evening.

[WALK OR BIKE]  There’s no need to rent a car in Tulum, which is great news for New Yorkers who may or may not even have a license.  Cabs are plentiful and cheap, and bikes are simple to rent.  But it’s easy to go through an entire day on foot as majority of shopping, hotels and restaurants are conveniently located on one main strip.

Happy hippie travels xx

Natty

From High-Heels to Hiking Boots, Nevis Has it All

Never heard of Nevis? Neither had I… until recently. To celebrate one of my best friend’s birthdays, my 5 girlfriends and I were searching for a weekend getaway to relieve our over stressed, city spoiled senses. Something tropical and distant, but relatively easy to access from both New York and LA, somewhere we could warm our hearts and bodies in the sunshine while spending quality time with each other and not tons of other tourists. The answer? A tiny island located in the West Indies, right next to St. Kitts named Nevis. But while Nevis is unspoiled and remote enough to feel undiscovered - it’s also home to the incomparable Four Season’s hotel - which would be our luxurious home away from home for the 4-day trip. 

“We dubbed this ferry the “Speedboat to Paradise” as we sipped complimentary spiced rum punch while watching flying fish flit and flutter across the cerulean ocean waves...”

From the moment the girls and I deplaned at the St. Kitts airport, we began to unwind. We were greeted with humid heat and a smiling member of the Four Season’s staff - ready to whisk us away to the private ferry that would take us the 25 minutes across the water to Nevis. We dubbed this ferry the “Speedboat to Paradise” as we sipped complimentary spiced rum punch while watching flying fish flit and flutter across the cerulean ocean waves, leading the way to our destination. Up ahead - the dormant volcano that forms the island of Nevis, named Nevis Peak, reached into the clouds, beckoning us closer. As we approached, we spotted our hotel - nestled among the lush landscape and adjacent to a white sandy beach, which stretched as far as the eye could see.

 It wasn’t long before we’d swapped our leggings and Louis Vuitton luggage for bikinis, and plopped down side by side in the sand, frozen “Fruit Jam” cocktails in hand. We had arrived… A few hours of lounging and laughing, and eventually our tummies began to rumble. A short walk down the beach produced an oasis of local eateries - where we decided on an open air, oceanfront feast at Lime. After gorging on fresh seafood and “rice and peas” (the Nevisian term for rice and beans) we stumbled back down to the hotel and slipped sleepily into bed. I stretched my limbs across the crisp, soft sheets, nestled my head deep into the oversized down pillow and let the sound of the waves lapping at our window lull me to sleep before I could count to four seasons… 

The next morning found us refreshed and ready to explore. We began with a fresh breakfast buffet at Neve and our first view of the hotel grounds. Later, a few of us took a long and leisurely stroll along the coast and into Charlestown, Nevis’ capital, in search of local flavor. While the little town itself may not seem like much to some visitors, we found the storm beaten buildings overgrown with bright bougainvillea to be inspirational backdrops for a photo shoot. In fact, when we stumbled upon an abandoned beach bar along the way, the girls and I just had to pause for a few fun shots. Don’t you think this is what Calypso had in mind when they made this eyelet vest? Once in town, we uncovered a hole-in-the wall spot called Jamaicy’s for lunch, and as the owner/hostess/waitress spouted off the three menu items of the day; we knew we’d found what we were looking for. Moist jerk chicken and succulent salt fish for the price of an appetizer at Miss Lily’s in NYC? Yes please!

“We ditched our cork wedges and embellished sandals in favor of hiking boots, packed a backpack full of water and took a deep breath as we faced the steep climb ahead.”

On our sandy walk home we plotted our evening, which would be spent celebrating my dear friend’s birthday. The craftiest among us had smuggled streamers and balloons in our carry-ons - which we used to deck out the hotel suite for an island style surprise party! We folded origami paper into old-school fortune tellers (remember the kind you made in grade school?!) and scribbled in fortunes from the thoughtful to the absurd. We shook up cocktails of tequila with fresh mango puree (courtesy of the downstairs bar), and giggled the night away reading eachother fortunes like “you will find your true love on Nevis…but he’ll be an eccentric monkey wrangler.” But first… a big birthday dinner at Mango began the festivities. The waves crashed onto the shore just feet from our feet, and between the 6 of us we must have ordered almost the entire menu… from curried shrimp to grilled lobster and a seafood soup that made me swoon, every dish was as heavenly as the stars sparkling overhead. We toasted bottles of rose to friendship, to life and to the best of it all…

“4 hours and a short rainstorm later, we emerged back at the bottom of the volcano: looking like we’d been dunked in chocolate mousse, but victorious! ”

It was with that gumption, that we decided the next day to tackle the intimidating Nevis Peak! We ditched our cork wedges and embellished sandals in favor of hiking boots, packed a backpack full of water and took a deep breath as we faced the steep climb ahead. But we couldn’t do it alone. A hired a guide named Sheldon showed us the way through the rainforest all the way up to the cloud forest at the summit. He made it look almost easy as he swung his legs over boulders; leaping from rock to root. But as we dug our manicured fingers into the mud, cracking dirty jokes and not a single complaint along the way - Sheldon declared us to be “no ordinary city slickers.” 4 hours and a short rainstorm later, we emerged back at the bottom of the volcano: looking like we’d been dunked in chocolate mousse, but victorious! I awoke the next day with aching muscles, and decided that the best way to recover would be with a morning massage. Moments later, I was swathed in an oversized bathrobe at the Four Season’s spa. I was ready to indulge in 50 minutes of deep tissue treatment and a soak in the steam room that would banish any last bits of tension still lingering from the chaos of life back in NYC. As I shuffled around the ladies lounge sipping lemongrass infused water, I felt as pampered, lucky and thankful as could be. But like all good things, our terrific trip too came to an end… As we once again boarded the Speedboat to Paradise, this time in the other direction, we threw mental pennies into the ocean, wishing to return to Nevis as we watched the shore disappear in sight.

So, if you’re planning an end of summer getaway, or looking to escape the cold of another New York winter… consider Nevis, you won’t regret it.

WANT TO BOOK A ROOM? The Four Seasons has several amazing offers that make it easier than ever to vacation in style. Free nights, air credits and amazing packages. CLICK for more info and mention Natty Style when booking for an extra treat. ;)

Spring Cleaning w/ Megan Zimak's 4 Fave Ways to Detox

Springtime has finally arrived here in NYC, and I for one, could not be happier. Of course that also means that pretty soon we’ll be wearing itty-bitty bikinis and micro-minis.  So, what better way to prep for the revealing warm-weather fashion than kicking things off with a detoxifying cleanse?

These days you hear the words “cleansing” and “detox” quite frequently, but what exactly do those terms mean?  Nutrition and Wellness expert, Megan Zimak gives us the low down, and reveiws her 4 favorite all natural Juice Cleanses and Detox Diets.

CLICK BELOW for healthy eating tips, reviews on some of the best ways to spring clean your body (including Gwenyth Paltrow and Demi Moore’s hot body secret!)

To cleanse one’s body is to remove dietary & environmental toxins through some application of a healthier lifestyle. Some examples of dietary theories that fall into this category include the Colon Cleanse, Master Cleanse, Candida Diet, Great American Detox Diet, and Raw Juice Fast to name a few.

Research shows that we are exposed to thousands of chemicals on a daily basis through the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe and the household, office or personal care products we use.  These toxins deposit in our fat cells and produce excess residue that our bodies are no longer capable of naturally eliminating.  Furthermore, much of the food we consume nowadays is processed—high in refined sugar & starch, and devoid of adequate nutrition & fiber—which can trigger inflammatory response in the body, the root cause of all chronic disease. 

Rebuilding and cleansing diets work to strengthen your immune system and reduce inflammation by removing common food allergens, lightening up your diet, and adding in essential nutrients to bring glowing vibrant health to mind, body & spirit.  Through a detoxifying diet, you can not only lose weight, but may also eliminate allergies, improve chronic ailments, increaseenergy, and overcome addictions and cravings.

For starters, here is a list of foods to include and avoid on a general detox or rebuilding diet:

EAT THESE:

• fresh or frozen berries •fresh or frozen vegetables •whole, gluten-free grains (amaranth, millet, buckwheat, quinoa, brown rice) • nuts and seeds • extra-virgin olive oil

NOT THESE:

• sugar & artificial sweeteners • wheat, gluten & dairy • yeast • food additives and preservatives • chocolate, caffeine & alcohol • foods high in saturated fat

However, if you’re looking for a bit more structure, or want to take your cleansing to a deeper level for fast & lasting results, here is a brief overview of 4 of my favorites. Fair warning: these cleanses are not for the faint of heart, and it goes without saying to please consult your physician before starting on any new diet or detoxification.

****

“MOST INTENSE”

1.    The Master Cleanse Diet, also commonly referred to as the Lemonade Diet, Maple Syrup Diet, and Cayenne Pepper Diet, was created in 1940 to help treat people with ulcers. This diet was not originally intended for weight loss; however, that is a nearly inevitable result due to the significantly reduced daily caloric intake (avg 600-1200 calories).

The Master Cleanse recipe includes: 2 tbsp. fresh squeezed lemon 2 tbsp. pure maple syrup 1/10 tsp. cayenne pepper 10 ounce glass of medium hot water

The Master Cleanse diet should be followed exclusively for 10 days, with solid foods gradually re-introduced in a specific manner & order.  This allows good gut bacteria to sufficiently re-develop. Important to note: most physicians & wellness experts do not endorse this diet due to the lack of essential nutrients.

“MOST CUSTOMIZABLE” 

2.     Organic Avenue offers  5 organic, vegan raw food/juice cleanses based on their “L.O.V.E.” philosophy:  Live, Organic, Vegan, Experience.   The 3 most popular cleanses are the Love Easy (5 day beginner cleanse, combining raw juices & cuisine),  Love Fast (Level 2 cleansing, incorporating juices, soups & smoothies), and  finally, the Love Deep (3 days of juice only, for advanced “cleansers”).  Cleanses may be picked up or delivered (depending on zip code) & all packages include a daily email with detailed instructions, time schedule, nutrition tips & inspiring words of L.O.V.E & wisdom.

“MOST CELEB ENDORSED”

3.   The Clean Program, a 21-day cleanse developed by Dr Alejandro Junger MD (a renowned cardiologist), has been touted as the most effective cleanse in the world.  It  is doctor-backed by wellness heavyweights Dr. Frank Lippman & Dr. Mark Hyman, and loved & endorsed by celebs such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Demi Moore & Debra Messing to name a few.  The plan is simple (a shake for breakfast, lunch from a list of specific foods, a shake for dinner, and supplements such as probiotics & enzymes to be taken throughout the day), and arrives direct to your door, neatly packed & organized, in just 2 days.  Its pricey ($425, shipping included) but let’s just say, the results are worth their weight (or weight loss) in gold.

“MOST ACCESSIBLE”

4.     Finally, the ‘First Cleanse’ system from Renew Life is fantastic. It is an organic mixture of minerals and herbs that helps draw away toxins, fats and ‘extra’ hormones from your system. It is a 30 day program but eating is permitted (follow above list of recommended foods to eat/avoid).  This system is by far the least pricey and most widely accessible of the bunch.

Wishing you all an easy cleanse, and a healthy, happy & vibrant Spring!

 - Megan Zimak

Packing for a Week in Los Angeles

As — would say, “I’m goin’ goin’, back back to Cali Cali”… So what am I gonna pack pack for a low key week in the city of angels?   Answer: A bunch of day to night casuals that can be mixed and matched for a variety of occasions.

The Forecast: High’s in the mid 60’s to the upper 70’s, Lows in the mid 40’s

The Agenda:  Wine tasting in Santa Barbara with NB, lazy days around town, casual dinners with friends, a few casual meetings and showroom appointments

How Long:  5 1/2 days, 5 nights

CLICK BELOW to see what I’m bringing to La La Land and how I plan to wear it.

One of my favorite packing tips is to pick a color palette and stick to it.  For this trip I chose neutral grey and earth tones to keep my travel wardrobe is as flexible and interchangeable as possible.

You’ll also notice that nearly all of the pieces below (with the exception of the silk Theory blouse) are wrinkle free fabrics - so they will look just as good when I pull them out of the bag as they did when they went in!

(Actual list / wardrobe credits at the bottom of post)

Layered over a silk cami or under my leather jacket, this cozy cashmere cardigan is the perfect way to keep warm.  The grey silk cami is cute on it’s own too, and can be worn during the day with boyfriend jeans, or worn with some gold jewelry, heels and a tie dye scarf.

This striped fisherman sweater is really light - perfect with boyfriend jeans and wedges, maybe for a shopping day.

This leather jacket is perfect for adding polish to casual basics like a white T shirt or this grey slouchy sweater.  Paired with my platform Marni booties, I could even wear this to dinner.  I also adore these skinny jeans because they’re carol burnett nude pokies super fitted, and have just the right amount of distress.

Skinny jeans: EARNEST SEWN

A plain white T shirt goes from drab to fab when accessorized with fun jewelry and a scarf.

A cotton sweater is perfect for that in between weather.  This hoodie looks darling with cut off shorts for a day of bumming around Venice or Manhattan beach.

This open weave tunic sweater feels effortless because of it’s shape, but dressy because of it’s wirey, slightly shiny material.  It’s perfect for a casual dinner, worn with skinny jeans and platform booties, or for daytime with leopard flats and boyfriend jeans.

For a trendier evening, I love this animal print blouse with my skinnies.  It’s just the right amount of “look” without going overboard.  This amazing Kara Ross bracelet is all the jewelry I need!

Effortless and chic, this silk blouse just feels right for day or night.  Maybe I’ll wear this wine tasting in Santa Barbara… Better be careful not to spill any!

More jewelry to play around with!

THE EXTRAS

Go with everything grey bag: BALENCIAGA

Tie die extra long scarf: ZARA

Bright leopard print zipper bag to hold plane essentials like hand cream, Lara bars, lipgloss and hand sanitizer: DVF

Giant vintage duffle bag to carry it all in?: LOUIS VUITTON

Reading material: ELLE, HARPERS BAZAAR and FIFTH AVENUE 5 AM by Sam Wasson.

PACKING LIST

Cashmere Cardigan: CALYPSO ST. BARTHS

Double Belt: INTERMIX

Skinny jeans: EARNEST SEWN

Grey Silk Cami; NILI LOTAN

Taupe Ballet Flats: GAP

Lace Up Wedges: CHLOE

Army Green Leather Jacket: DVF

Grey Slouchy Sweater/Sweatshirt: MILLOU 

Shredded Boyfriend Jeans: CURRENT ELLIOT

White Silk Blouse: THEORY

Animal Print Blouse with Leather Detail: HAUTE HIPPIE

Perfect Oversized White T: ZARA

Cotton Hoodie: T BY ALEXANDER WANG

Striped Open Weave Sweater: EVER

Cream Wire-y Sweater: UNKNOWN

Gold Bangles: VAN H.

Imitation Bone Cuff Bracelet: BCBG

Catch you on the flip side!

xx

Natty

A Day in the Life of a Stylist During Fashion Week

7:30am – Wake up to the radio blaring.Wonder why the F the alarm clock is mistakenly set so early… Oh yeah it’s still Fashion Week.

8:00am – Power breakfast of coffee and cereal, try on 3 outfits before deciding on my “look” for the day.

8:45am – Make my way uptown to Lincoln Center for the Jenny Packham show.Listen to a seemingly normal man on the crowded subway sing Kumbaya - to nobody in particular.

10:00am – Lust after the ethereal looks of the show, what a lovely and soft way to ease into the day!I’m feelin’ good.

10:30:am – Head across to the Rachel Roy.Run into Bobbi Brown who remembers me from working together a while ago.I’m flattered to chat her up for a hot second before she’s swooped up by more important people begging for her attention, namely – Kim Kardashian.

11:00am – Meet with our Guest of a Guest fashion intern, Courtney and photog, Jenna to tag team some street style from the tents.

11:15am - Run into Candice Lake, photographer for Vogue UK.We chat and take each other’s picture –a common practice in the love-fest that is Lincoln Center at Fashion Week:“I love your look, can I take your photo?”“YES but I love YOUR look – can I take yours tooo?!”

11:30am – Stutter when I ask Joanna Hillman about her t-tips for F-Fashion Week.Is it possible to have a style crush?

12:30pm – I’m starving and starting to drag.Head over to the Teen Vogue Haute Spot in Lincoln Center to use their iPads and catch up on emails.

12:35pm – Snatch up 4 baby “Baked by Melissa” cupcakes in rapid succession immediately upon entering.The peanut butter and jelly flavor is just like eating a sandwich… right?

12:37pm – Pound a Figi water like a frat boy drinking beer and repress the urge to slam dunk the bottle.Gotta wash down all that peanut butter somehow!

1:00pm – Shiver uncontrollably while snacking on some Pirates Booty in the lounge.WHY is it so cold in here?!Are they secretly storing salmon or eggs in the makeup station or something??At least I’m not tired anymore.

2:00pm – Leave the (not so hot) Haute Spot, despite having more work to do because my lips are blue, and it’s not a fashion statement.

2:05pm – Buy a cup of payday loans savings hot tea from the Lincoln Center vendor dude.He looks at me like I’m a lunatic.Maybe because it’s 80 degrees and sunny outside.

2:06pm – Burn my tongue on my tea, but don’t care because I’m so happy to be answering emails from my Blackberry in the sunshine.

3:30pm – Head downtown to the Metropolitan Pavilion for the Elizabeth Kosich show as a part of Nolcha.

3:45pm – I’m a little early, so I decide to walk over to Sephora to pick something up for my mom.Extra walking in 6 inch Louboutin stilettos; not the best idea at this point.

3:55pm – Back to the Pavilion.By now, I’m sweaty and my feet are starting to kill.

3:56pm – Spot a very comfy looking SUV printed with #MBFW, and convince them to give me a ride to the Highline after the show in exchange for posing with the car.

4:45pm – Exit the show to find that my “white knight” in shining car is gone!Bastards.Feeling like a sucker.

5:00pm – Make it to the A&O show (no thank Mercedes Benz).Eat yet another cupcake.Watch the paps go nuts over those other 2 Kardashian sisters.

5:30pm – Hobble into a cab back up to Lincoln Center, and inspect blisters the size and shape of Africa on my feet.I also examine that the Nolcha show’s gift bag which includes all of the necessities for … well I’ll just show you:

EXHIBIT A:

1. Press on nails
2.  Fake eye lashes
3.  A scratch & win ticket for “Big Daddy’s” lotto
4.  A business card for what looks like an escort service
5.  A gift certificate for $50 off of Completely Bare’s waxing services
6.  A very cheap looking brochure titled “Hello World!” Communications

And the kicker…

     7.Two “Swipes – Lovin’ Wipes…For before and after intimate moments”

Yes, seriously.

6:00pm – Pound another Figi water on my way to see Betsy Johnson.Skip the socializing and sink thankfully into my seat.Peer into the gift bag with trepidation only to discover MORE cupcakes, teal eyeliner and pink hair extensions.Perfect!My Ho Kit is now complete.

6:30pm – Rock out to Nirvana and New Young Pony Club in one of the most entertaining shows of the season before finally limping as quickly as a gimp can limp; back to the subway and home.

xx

Natty

Fall in Love at Laluna Resort & Spa in Grenada (Plus a Bonus Freebie!)

When my boyfriend, Neal and I decided to take a trip to Grenada earlier this season, everyone whom we told thought we were going to Spain.  Commonly confused with the Spanish coastal town Grenada (Gre-NAH-dah), the Grenada (Gre-NAY-dah) on our radar is a Caribbean island located at the southern tip of the Grenadines. 

Nicknamed the Spice Island, Grenada had me at hello with it’s lush landscape, unbelievably friendly locals and crystal clear waters.  But what really made our vacation so dreamy was where we staid: the luxurious Laluna Resort and Spa.  A favorite amongst the fashion set - Laluna is the stuff of dreams…

Greeted upon arrival with what would be the first of many rum cocktails, Neal and I perched at the thatched roof bar in our travel clothes – ready to relax.  It didn’t take long for a perma-grin to settle onto my face as I surveyed the surroundings that would be our home for the next 3 days…

Semi-private bungalows stagger themselves upward into the mountain from the main house, which sits directly on the ocean.  Each cottage suite features a spacious deck and personal plunge pool, perfect for stargazing or just listening to the waves lapping at the shore below.  Open-air bathrooms allow you to take in the breathtaking view - even while showering.  The entire compound feels rustic and tropical, while offering the finest of every creature comfort; including the hands-down BEST massage I have ever had from the Balinese spa located just down the footpath.   Still holding on to a few threads of tension from life back in the city – we signed up for an hour of yoga in the outdoor pagoda overlooking the endless turquoise sea.  The result?  Pure bliss.

After a couple of days of extreme relaxation, Neal and I were ready to explore.  Our taxi driver cum tour guide, Lennox, took us on a jungle hike - pointing out the islands unique plants and wildlife along levitra volume pills the way.  We met several precocious monkeys and played with “Donkey’s Eye” (a seed which heat up when rubbed on stone) before Lennox led us to the pièce de résistance: a secret waterfall dubbed “Honeymoon Falls” for it’s heart-shaped pool.

To unwind from our adventure, Neal and I headed back to Laluna for a private sunset dinner on the beach.  Bernardo, who owns the resort with his wife Wendy, is Italian – which explains the menu at the delicious waterfront restaurant. 

As a tense city girl, I cannot say enough about the peace of mind I discovered during my stay at Laluna.  My only complaint is that our stay was too short.  I’m dying to return for a dive at Grenada’s famous Underwater Sculpture Park, and more seafood feasts at Oprah’s (and now our) favorite, BB’s Crabback.  For fellow fashionphiles looking for an escape from skinny jeans and stilettos – Laluna is everything you could hope for and more.  In fact, they have a history of catering to the well heeled… Some of fashion’s biggest names, including KATE MOSS, MICHAEL KORS and HEIDI KLUM have each tanned their fit physiques at Laluna.  And that’s not all — Laluna’s  colorful backdrop has been used in numerous photo shoots for SAKS FIFTH AVE and NEIMAN MARCUS as well as SPORTS ILLUSTRATED who shot their notorious Swimsuit Issue at Laluna.

So if you’re still planning your summer getaway, or looking for a chic escape at any time of year; look no further than Laluna Resort and Spa in Grenada.  And if you just can’t get enough of Laluna – they’re currently building 7 luxury villas on the property, which are now available for purchase. 

*BONUS* 

Natty Style readers receive a FREE Balinese head massage per person with any reservation!!  Simply enter “NattyStyle” under the “Additional Comments” section upon booking.

 

Bon Voyage! 

xx

Natty

Fall in Love at Laluna Resort & Spa in Grenada (Plus a Bonus Freebie!)

When my boyfriend, Neal and I decided to take a trip to Grenada earlier this season, everyone whom we told thought we were going to Spain.  Commonly confused with the Spanish coastal town Grenada (Gre-NAH-dah), the Grenada (Gre-NAY-dah) on our radar is a Caribbean island located at the southern tip of the Grenadines. 

Nicknamed the Spice Island, Grenada had me at hello with it’s lush landscape, unbelievably friendly locals and crystal clear waters.  But what really made our vacation so dreamy was where we staid: the luxurious Laluna Resort and Spa.  A favorite amongst the fashion set - Laluna is the stuff of dreams…

Greeted upon arrival with what would be the first of many rum cocktails, Neal and I perched at the thatched roof bar in our travel clothes – ready to relax.  It didn’t take long for a perma-grin to settle onto my face as I surveyed the surroundings that would be our home for the next 3 days…

Semi-private bungalows stagger themselves upward into the mountain from the main house, which sits directly on the ocean.  Each cottage suite features a spacious deck and personal plunge pool, perfect for stargazing or just listening to the waves lapping at the shore below.  Open-air bathrooms allow you to take in the breathtaking view - even while showering.  The entire compound feels rustic and tropical, while offering the finest of every creature comfort; including the hands-down BEST massage I have ever had from the Balinese spa located just down the footpath.   Still holding on to a few threads of tension from life back in the city – we signed up for an hour of yoga in the outdoor pagoda overlooking the endless turquoise sea.  The result?  Pure bliss.

After a couple of days of extreme relaxation, Neal and I were ready to explore.  Our taxi driver cum tour guide, Lennox, took us on a jungle hike - pointing out the islands unique plants and wildlife along levitra volume pills the way.  We met several precocious monkeys and played with “Donkey’s Eye” (a seed which heat up when rubbed on stone) before Lennox led us to the pièce de résistance: a secret waterfall dubbed “Honeymoon Falls” for it’s heart-shaped pool.

To unwind from our adventure, Neal and I headed back to Laluna for a private sunset dinner on the beach.  Bernardo, who owns the resort with his wife Wendy, is Italian – which explains the menu at the delicious waterfront restaurant. 

As a tense city girl, I cannot say enough about the peace of mind I discovered during my stay at Laluna.  My only complaint is that our stay was too short.  I’m dying to return for a dive at Grenada’s famous Underwater Sculpture Park, and more seafood feasts at Oprah’s (and now our) favorite, BB’s Crabback.  For fellow fashionphiles looking for an escape from skinny jeans and stilettos – Laluna is everything you could hope for and more.  In fact, they have a history of catering to the well heeled… Some of fashion’s biggest names, including KATE MOSS, MICHAEL KORS and HEIDI KLUM have each tanned their fit physiques at Laluna.  And that’s not all — Laluna’s  colorful backdrop has been used in numerous photo shoots for SAKS FIFTH AVE and NEIMAN MARCUS as well as SPORTS ILLUSTRATED who shot their notorious Swimsuit Issue at Laluna.

So if you’re still planning your summer getaway, or looking for a chic escape at any time of year; look no further than Laluna Resort and Spa in Grenada.  And if you just can’t get enough of Laluna – they’re currently building 7 luxury villas on the property, which are now available for purchase. 

*BONUS* 

Natty Style readers receive a FREE Balinese head massage per person with any reservation!!  Simply enter “NattyStyle” under the “Additional Comments” section upon booking.

 

Bon Voyage! 

xx

Natty

[Natty News] 2011 SAG Awards Best Dressed

With the Screen Actors Guild Awards being granted to the winners by a jury of their peers; the superlative title of “Best Dressed” seems particularly appropriate.  Last night, the recurring trend on the red carpet was BELTS of all shapes and sizes, which showed up on the whittled waists of Mila Kunis, Jennifer Lawrence, Diana Agron, Claire Danes and Lea Michele among others.  Bold color also showed strong again, as did one of springs big trends - head to toe white.  

AMY ADAMS

HERVE LEROUX

A modern take on Grecian Glamour

LEA MICHELE

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

The loose curls in her hair continue this soft and feminine look 

NATALIE PORTMAN

AZZARO

Because sometimes it’s as clear as Generic Cialis black and white…

HILARY SWANK

VERSACE

I’m a sucker for nude, and this Versace number is pleated and cinched to perfection, highlighting Hilary’s  flawless figure

JANUARY JONES

CAROLINA HERRERA

A romantic departure from January’s bold Versace look at the Golden Globes, this dress feels rich and luxurious

JULIANNA MARGULIES

YVES SAINT LAURENT

Simple and elegant, the bold color of this YSL gown stand in perfect contrast with Julianna’s dark hair and minimal accessories

MILA KUNIS

ALEXANDER McQUEEN

Lee McQueen would have been proud…

SOFIA VERGARA

ROBERTO CAVALLI

While the excess of cleavage is a bit much for my taste, the uber saturated cobalt blue and expert tailoring earn this Cavalli creation a spot on the list.