ELLE Catwalk | City guides | New York

Perfectly polished with a giant dose of cool

This season editors and fashion fans are abuzz with talk of what New York 'IT' boys Alexander Wang, Phillip Lim and Jason Wu have in store for s/s 10, will Michelle Obama finally make an appearance on the front row and who will be on the front row?

Where to stay:

With the tents just a stone's throw away and many of fashion week’s parties within it's walls, Bryant Park Hotel and the super chic Carlyle are the most convenient options during fashion week. The A-list approved Bowery Hotel in the east Village is also a popular spot and plays host to Madonna whenever she is in town.

Where to eat:

New Yorkers are pizza aficionados and nowhere does it better than Lombardi's (32 Spring Street) while Da Silvano's is one of the cities most sought-after reservations for the best pasta and people watching in NYC. If a laid back atmosphere is required, grab a table at British gastro pub The Spotted Pig in the West Village - Natalie Portman loves it. Finally, Vanity Fair Editor Graydon Carter - who owns the famous Waverly Inn - has put The Monkey Bar firmly back on the map - try the Oysters Rockefeller or Clams Casino.

Where to go out:

The Rose Bar in the Gramercy Park Hotel (pictured)is the place to be after dark - you'll find editors and models lounging in Ian Schrager’s custom-designed velvet chairs. Then there's Indochine, where everyone from Natalia Vodianova to Mario Testino has partied during fashion week - try the Lychee Saketini cocktail.

The Look:

Perfectly put-together but cool to the core, New Yorkers like Kate Bosworth and Chloë Sevigny mix Alexander Wang, with Rodarte and Rag & Bone to perfection - accessorizing everything with tough heels and perfectly polished nails.

Where to Shop:

'Leave looking Lovely' is designer boutique Kirna Zabete's current moto but it could be said of all New York’s boutiques. Intermix, Chloe Sevigny, pictured has collaborated with them this season) and Scoop have a great line-up of contemporary brands while J.Crew and Club Monaco is where fashion editor’s stock up on luxe basics when they are in town. If you are looking for vintage, New York Vintage is a veritable treasure trove.

Beauty SOS:

A mani pedi is an absolute must in New York and we've found the ultimate spot - head to Jin Soon Natural Hand and Foot Spa and don't be surprised if you run into Sarah Jessica Parker. For the ultimate in luxury book the Breath of Milk and Honey pedicure and the Spirit of the Beehive manicure.

Don't leave without:

Anything from Chloë Sevigny’s new unisex range for Opening Ceremony (we love the grungy oversize knits), some printed legwear from rising star Michael Angel and a gorgeous Tomato Rhubarb candle from Space NK.

For more information on the Bryant Park Hotel, The Bowery Hotel, The Gramercy Park Hotel, Da Silvano, The Spotted Pig, Indochine, Kima Zabete, Opening Ceremony and the Jin Soon Natural Hand and Foot Spa click here.