Pippin Vintage Jewelry: Cameos to Cufflinks

Walking into Pippin Vintage Jewelry Store is like walking into a candy store for jewels. All different shapes, sizes, colors, and textures are nestled in antique display cases, pullout drawers, and baskets waiting to be discovered. I was surprised to learn that not only does Pippin have beautiful vintage jewelry for women, but they also have one of a kind tie clips, cuff links, pins, and keychains for men.

Originally the store opened in 2005 on the Lower East Side and then moved in 2007 to its current location in Chelsea on 17th between 6th and 7th avenue. The two owners, Rachel and Steve Cooper, often frequent the store along with the store mascot, Pippin the dog. The store itself is a beautiful space that brings you back to a different century. It invites you to come explore its treasures and chances are you are going to find more than one surprise to take home.

The earrings are sorted by color and type so it makes it easier to find exactly what you need.

Necklaces in all colors and sizes

Cuff links and tie clips

Pippin has a large selection of merchandise ranging from costume to estate jewelry. Unusual pieces such as collar pins, cameos, keys, and pocket watches that make for a special gift are tucked in every corner. A beautiful cameo or key can even be turned into signature necklace. Most items are under 50 dollars except for the estate items. How can you resist such a great price?

1980s Christian Dior

Trifari earrings (click to see Trifari history, vintage designer)

Above are two pairs of earring that I bought recently. I know that when I make a purchase at Pippin no one else will have the same accessories as me. Pippin is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 7pm and Sunday from 12pm to 6pm so you can always stop by for a last minute gift or addition to any outfit.

A Family Tradition: Raffetto's Fresh Pasta Corporation

Established in 1906 Raffetto's Pasta Corporation is a 3rd generation owned and run family business. Located on 144 West Houston between Sullivan and MacDougal, Raffetto's has been creating homemade pasta for over 100 years. While their store may be historic, their pasta is certainly not. It is made fresh daily on the premises providing a variety of ravioli, tortellini, and custom pasta widths. The goal of this noteworthy establishment: unforgettable pasta. Although Raffetto's supplies some of the top restaurants in New York City, you can take home the same great quality family pasta without paying an arm and a leg for it.

The Cheese and Spinach Ravioli remains a classic at Raffetto's. It is a favorite of mine and is a must have your first time to the store. All of the raviolis are incredible so I recommend always trying a new flavor. I recently discovered the Black Truffle ravioli on accident one afternoon which was a rare treat. The bad news? The Raffetto's team only produces one case of Black Truffle raviolis every few weeks. The good news? You can give your name and phone number to be notified when the next case is produced. 

In addition to the ravioli and the tortellini, you can also select 15 different types of egg pasta according to your cut of choice. The choices range from spinach to saffron to rosemary. You can let one of the Raffetto's team know how many people you are cooking for and he or she will make sure you have the right amount.

My choice today? Plain linguine, turkey bolognese sauce, and freshly grated parmesan. 

In order to compliment your pasta, Raffetto's also provides delicious sauces, breads, cheese, and even pre-made dishes. It is a one-stop shop for the key ingredients for an authentic Italian meal.

Raffetto's does not have a website but you can call the store to ask any questions at (212) 777-1261. 

Hours of Operation

Monday- Friday 9am-6:30pm

Saturday: 9am-6:30pm

Closed Sunday & Monday

And please remember that it is CASH ONLY! I hope that you find this NYC gem as unique and delicious as I do!

Beaucoup de Béquet

I never had a passion for caramels until I encountered Béquet. Created in 2001 after losing a career in technology sales due to the telecom crash, Robin Béquet crafted the most delicious morsels in Bozeman, Montana. Master caramel chefs create each batch by hand with only the finest ingredients. No artifical flavors, preservatives, or colors are used. The result? Smooth, creamy, chewy, melt-in-your mouth delights. I promise that once you have your first bite you will have to have another and another and another. The caramels come in 9 delicious varieties from Chipotle to Espresso to Pomegranate, but my favorite by far is the Celtic Sea Salt.

WARNING! The Celtic Sea Salt caramels are addicting. The chunks of salt accentuate the caramel flavor and create the perfect balance of salty and sweet. It is clear from the moment you have a taste why this treat won the NAFST (National Association for the Speciality Food Trade) award for outstanding confection. I have tried many other caramels with sea salt to compare, but nothing comes close.

Although the Celtic Sea Salt remains my favorite choice, all of the other flavors are just as incredible. You can order the caramels online by clicking here. If you do not want to order online there are over 650 retailers and you can find the nearest near you by calling their toll free number 1-877-423-7838. These caramels make for a unique gift for any occaison. Whether it is for a stocking stuffer, a wedding favor, birthday, hostess gift, or just because, Béquet caramels will be a hit! Make sure to grab one before they are gone!

Refreshingly Classic: Back to Basics

“A white shirt woman is a busy, inspired person…I think of Kate Hepburn as a white-shirt woman. I think of Audrey Hepburn. Mrs. Vreeland and Jackie O., definitely. Marilyn Monroe, definitely not.” -Izaac Mizrahi

Nothing is more classic or refreshing than a crisp white shirt, especially in the summertime. Whether it is a white tee paired with jeans, a white button down tucked into a pencil skirt, or a statement shirt worn with simple black pants, a white shirt always makes an impression. There are so many variations and styles so I wanted to share my go-to shirts that have become staples in my closet. You can click on any of the links to purchase.

Brooks Brothers Boys Button Down

One of the hardest shirts for me to find was a easy to wear and easy to clean white button down. Many button down shirts are often dry clean only or have to be ironed. What also frustrates me are the button downs cut specifically for women. I find these shirts to be too fitted and too short. The Brooks Brothers Boys button down is the perfect solution. It can be thrown in the washer and dryer, does not have to be ironed, fits great (not too close cut but not too boxy), and it is a fabulous price! Adding a monogram gives the shirt a personal touch. Navy or tan are my favorite monogram colors to be placed on the pocket or cuff. I recommend buying a few white to have on hand and then exploring monograms and other colors.

Gap Favorite Tee: Crew Neck

Gap Favorite Tee: V-neck

Gap Favorite Tee: Long-Sleeved

Although these white shirts are less formal than a button down, I wear the Gap Favorite Tees a few times a week. I love the different neckline choices, sleeve lengths, and most importantly, the comfortable fabric. I wear the favorite tee with jeans, under a blazer for work, with shorts, or under a cardigan. These shirts are so versatile they hold up after many washings. Again, they are a great price point!

Anne Fontaine

Some of the most beautiful and well constructed shirts I have seen come from Anne Fontaine, a Brazilian designer. The quality and attention to detail of every single shirt is quite apparent from the first glance. Anne began her collection by selecting inspiring fabrics ranging from poplin to lace. These white shirts are meant to be featured in an outfit and exude elegance. While Anne Fontaine shirts can be quite pricey, they are worth the investment! The best place to purchase an Anne Fontaine shirt is at one of her boutiques. There are three in Manhattan and you can email contact@annefontaineusa.com for questions about the nearest location. The collection can be viewed on her website, but in order to experience the full beauty of Anne's designs, a store visit is a must.