Summer Movies in NYC Parks

Summer in New York City means its inhabitants finally get to enjoy the many outdoor activities in Manhattan’s parks. Here’s your list of outdoor movie screenings offered for FREE! So, grab a blanket, pack a picnic basket, and enjoy a movie right in the midst of our great city!

(via: centralparknyc.org)

The Central Park Film Festival (pictured above) is held every year during the month of August at Rumsey Playfield, which runs its varying selection of films for just one week (August 21^st – 25^th), beginning at 8:00pm each evening. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., so feel free to come early with your dinner (just avoid glass wine bottles).

The HBO Bryant Park Film Festival is another popular choice, and it will be running this summer until August 20^th, showing a different film every Monday evening; the lawn opens at 5:00 p.m. and films are scheduled to start between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m. This year celebrates the 20^th Anniversary of the Park’s reopening, and in celebration previous classic favorites are being shown, including Roman Holiday and Rebel Without a Cause.

(via: Essential New York City Guide)

Another fun option is the Brooklyn Bridge Movies with a View program (pictured above), which offers free films with the stellar Manhattan skyline in view, at the Brooklyn Bridge Park. The program is scheduled to run every Thursday from now until August 30^th. The theme this year is “Syfy Movies with a View,” but Clueless, To Kill a Mockingbird, Wet Hot American Summer, and The Extra-Terrestrial are on the calendar as well. The music (by select deejays) begins at 6:00 p.m. followed by the movies, which play under the stars at sundown.

- Samantha Burkett

Father’s Day Gift Guide

Shopping for Dad can be near impossible- wouldn’t it be easier if he just loved earrings and flowers like Mom? Thus we are often forced to resort to old classics like the tie, book, or gift card. This year treat him to something a little more unique; here are our suggestions for fun, cool gifts to show Dad you care.

UGG Ascot Slipper ($100)

We all love our UGGs, even if they are just excuses to wear slippers during the day. Let Dad experience the lush shoe too, by giving him these comfortable yet distinguished slippers- they also make great driving shoes!

(via: nordstrom)

Electrohome Nostalgia Turntable ($140)

This real wood 4-in-1 music system plays vinyl records, CDs, radio, and MP3’s. This prized piece will allow him to listen to all his old favorites, as well as try out the newer artists you’ve been pushing. Vintage yet modern, exactly how Dad should be.

(via: amazon)

Gucci Web Bi-Fold Wallet ($300)

If you’re really looking to splurge this year, a gorgeous, chic wallet from Gucci could be just the thing. You know he’ll use it everyday (thinking of you when he does) and its classic elegance will never go out of style. Functional, practical, and it looks good too. Plus, there’s nothing wrong with making sure Dad is fashionable too!  

(via: gucci)

BOSS Black Round Leather Strap Watch ($235)

This stainless steal and pebble leather Hugo Boss watch will give him something to flaunt around the office. He’s sure to receive many compliments on its timeless and classic look, which means you will receive many thank you’s. Win win.

(via: nordstrom)

- Samantha Burkett

HH Whisper: Shopping Steals, Deals & Sample Sales!

Here at HerHattan we love to share buzz worthy events with our readers, and we’ve discovered some great shopping deals for today and this weekend. So grab your wallet and girlfriends, and start looking for those amazing summer pieces!

(via: tangledupinblonde)

Shop the Night Away NYC

Tonight!! 5:00 to 9:00 pm, the Meatpacking District will host an exclusive one-night-only event where 25 of their top retailers will be selling everything for up to 30% off. That’s right; Diane Von Furstenberg, Scoop NYC, La Perla, Theory, All Saints, and many more, will be selling their stock at a third of the price. Shoppers need to RSVP to the event, which is easy and free (but spots are limited!), so click here in order to choose which stores’ sales you would like to attend.

Christian Louboutin Sample Sale

(via: ohlalaland)

Starting today, June 14, and lasting just until 6:00 a.m. this Saturday, June 30, Christian Louboutin Boutiques will be marking down their Spring and Summer 2012 collections, which means those gorgeous red soles for 30 to 40 percent off, while handbags are rumored to be as little as half price!

YSL Sample Sale

(via: jooricredo)

The coveted brand’s sale is currently running and will last until 6:30 p.m. today, as well as from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. tomorrow. Go to Soiffer Haskin at 317 West 33^rd Street to find incredible discounts on shoes, handbags, jewelry, and women’s clothing. Shoppers will be able to score skirts for $100, $75 sunglasses, and $50 jewelry pieces, which we learned from the online shopping guide Mizhattan, where you can look to for more information on the event.

Tory Burch Sample Sale

(via: jadoreprettythings)

Visit 261 West 36^th Street for up to 75 percent off of Tory Burch Spring and Summer 2012 merchandise, which is running until 7:00 p.m. today, 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. tomorrow, and 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Saturday. Expect great deals on shoes and ready-to-wear items.

La Perla Sample Sale

(via: extrasexy)

This event ends tonight at 7:00 p.m., so if you want to take advantage of the store’s sleepwear, swimwear, and of course their beautiful lingerie, being up to 80 percent off (yeah, that’s right, 80 percent!) then head over to 225 5^th Avenue as soon as possible! 

- Samantha Burkett

The Little Yellow Dress

(via: instyle)

Walking through SoHo we couldn’t help but notice all the yellow adorning the shop windows! But, it’s not just the windows embracing the look, celebs are on trend too. So, what’s next on our wish list this summer? The little yellow dress.

Your yellow piece could be sparkling and bejeweled like the one we spotted this past weekend from French Connection ($398). Its effortless mini-cut and dazzling sequins are just begging for a night out. Visit Manhattan’s SoHo location at 435 West Broadway. 

(via: svpply)

For more casual and budget-friendly pieces, go to one of the many H&M locations sprinkled throughout SoHo (like 558 Broadway). You will find summery yellow dresses and tops that can be worn to run errands or to the office, like this cute knee-length chiffon ($35). It’s simple and could easily be dressed up by adding a pair of pumps.

(via: freshfashion)

Anthropologie, located at 375 West Broadway, is ideal for loose fitting summer tops and soft cotton dresses. On our last visit we discovered this sweet, demure dress that could work for a day at the beach or a picnic. 

(via: breakfastatanthropologie)

- Samantha Burkett

Summer Totes We Love

We found some stylish tote-bags for the summer and just had to share with you!

Marc by Marc Jacobs “What a Spectacle Tote” ($178)

Large enough to stuff a towel and any other beach accessories into, this summery bag is ideal for a day in the sun. Its fun, unique pattern will stand out while remaining chic and stylish.

(via: polyvore.com)

Kate Spade “Barrow Street Bon Shopper” ($248)

A more reserved option, this elegant, canvas tote features 14-carat gold plated hardware and a cowhide trim. Although the bag is slightly pricier, its versatility is well worth the price. You’ll be able to pack a picnic in this tote-bag before heading to the park.

(via: katespadebagsonline.com)

Hermes “Chevaux en Camouflage” in ecru ($1,225)

For those with a larger budget, this bag features 100% dip-dyed cotton canvas, and is also available in a flashier pink dye to really make a statement. The pattern is gorgeous and certainly deserves an appearance at one of those coveted Hampton’s beaches or horse shows.

(via: polyvore.com)

Diane von Furstenberg “Large Beach Tote” in Buds Large Coral ($98)

A great find, this canvas bag comes in three vibrant patterns, all colorful and begging for a day at the beach. It features leather accents and an internal pocket, so the tote is functional as well as fashionable.

(via: dressipi.com)

J Crew “Boardwalk Tote” in mint cream ($50)

For the budget conscious girl who still wants her tote to be the prettiest at the pool, this mint green (also available in navy and papaya) striped bag is a must. It is understated yet chic, and the bag can be monogrammed for an additional $10. 

(via: cococozy.com)

- Samantha Burkett

Set Your Sails: The Nautical Trend

(via: catastropheandthecure)

The nautical style can be embraced in many ways; a red or navy striped tank, anchor print shoe, bag, or top, and those trendy little rope bracelets too. Summertime is usually when we love to flaunt the nautical pieces, but truth be told, this trend can be worn anytime of the year with a leather boat shoe or even a nautical-themed manicure. Often worn casually, a nautical style can be dressed-up with a silk skirt or maxi dress. Try throwing a summer party around this style with red, white and blue treats, seafood bites, and decorative ropes or anchors. Here are some of our favorite seaworthy fashions from blogs we love:

(via: tumblr)

(via: craftingitup)

(via: alliterationandalcohol)

(via: bornfortheroseandthepearl)

(via: stylistslife)

- Samantha Burkett

HH Spotlight: Justine Cotsonas, Actress for ABC Pilot “Gotham”

(Photo by Laura Rose)

With a “vixen” role in the ABC pilot, Gotham, Justine Cotsonas, is crossing her fingers for the chance of a lifetime– a potential TV series which she describes as “[…] awesome, and all about the magical side of New York City.” Working alongside some of the top names in the industry, you may have spotted Cotsonas as Sofie Duran in As The World Turns, in an episode of the long running CBS sitcom The Good Wife, or in Showtime’s Nurse Jackie. 

Originally from Long Island, New York, Cotsonas pursued acting at New York University, and admits, “New York is my heart; I’ll always be an East Coast girl.” But, NYU was later on, as it was Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady that surfaced Cotsonas’s passion for acting at a very young age. “[…] I’d have to say, it was Christmas when I was eleven years old, and my mother gave me a VHS of My Fair Lady. There was Audrey, and that was that,” she reminisces.

Cotsonas has had the honor of working alongside actors, such as Sharon Stone, Danny Glover, and Peter Facinelli, to name a few. “I also did this project opposite George Clooney that will never ever see the light of day and I’m not supposed to talk about it anyway, so take from that what you will.”

In 2010, Cotsonas landed the distinguished role of Maggie on Last Night, a 2010 movie starring Keira Knightley, Eva Mendes, and Sam Worthington. “Keira is a dream; she’s beautiful inside and out, so sweet and down-to-earth, and easy to work with. I enjoyed my time with her,” Cotsonas boasts.

(Photo by Laura Rose)

(Photo by Kate Holley)

Now, with two films in postproduction, Rhymes with Banana and Children of the Unconscious, Cotsonas plans to continue acting in various short films, such as one called By the Sea with Eric Reis and Elizabeth Masucci, as well as produce some of her own script-writing, all-the-while “[…] waiting to find out the fate of Gotham. Crossing [her] fingers!”  

Tell us more about your part in the upcoming TV series, Gotham.

I’m a raven-haired, red-lipped vixen who gets to run around in stilettos and wield a switchblade! I don’t want to give too much away, but I might be a bit magical, too.

What advice can you give based on your experience in auditioning?

[…] People in charge have a certain idea in their heads, and you, as an actor, are subject to that idea. You have no control over your audition except for the quality of your work and how you present yourself. Do your best, forget the rest.



What’s your dream role?

I’ve had many over the years– Ophelia, Eponine, Elizabeth Bathory. Right now, it’s probably Julia from George Orwell’s 1984. I had the brilliant idea in high school that I should play Julia opposite Gary Oldman as Winston Smith. It’s such a shame Gary Oldman never played that part. That’s my dream role for him.



Tell us about your fashion sense; what is your personal style like?

My style can be sort of eclectic, because I love vintage looks from several decades– anything that feels classic, classy and comfy. I love high waistlines and Peter Pan collars, but I also love boyfriend jeans and big sweaters. I used to say I was born in the wrong decade, but I’ve learned to embrace the ‘here and now.’ We have the freedom to wear anything that inspires us– that’s especially true for New York City. 

Do you think the characters you play influence your sense of style?

My characters don’t really influence my personal style because they’re characters and I’m me (though I did take home a fair amount of my wardrobe when I left As the World Turns). I like playing roles different from myself. I always, always, always take away new makeup tips from every set, though.

What do you think is the most important quality to have when working as an actress in NYC?

I believe, above all, in passion and sincerity in all things. But, perseverance and a positive outlook are important too. And thick skin!

-Interviewed by Samantha Burkett

HH Spotlight: Claire Barratt of ClaireaBella Tote Bags

Since her first design in October 2010, handbag designer Claire Barratt, is hitting new heights with celebs and fashionistas all over the world, with her adorable hand-drawn, hand-painted ClaireaBella tote bags. Each bag is designed to embody the spirt and image of its owner, in regard to the drawing’s (which Barratt refers to as the aBella) hair color, eye color, wardrobe, and style. “They’re all handmade from start to finish, so each one is unique! No brush stroke is the same; no paint mix is the same. The flow is always different. She [the drawing] creates a smile every time!”

Already adorning the hands of the adorable Sophie Grace & Rosie, Amy Childs, Lisa Snowdon, and other public figures, the ClaireaBella bag is certainly a one-of-a-kind trend, with each bag specially made. So, how did Barratt come up with the idea? “It was something that just happened… An idea based on the way I look, was an inspiration to others. She [ClaireaBella bags] is now a brand and I’m the designer! Amazing!” Barratt points out, “There’s no age limit! I’ve had 5-year-old customers, and 85-year-old customers; people just love them! And lets not forget about the men- a lot of men own them too!” 

What is the inspiration behind ClaireaBella?

ClaireaBella girl (aBella) was born from an idea based on a drawing an artist did of me, in Paris. I loved the drawing and the way he captured my eyes, so I decided to transfer my own interpretation of it onto a bag! I drew my “aBella” straight onto the bag, and hand-painted it. People who saw her on the bag fell in love! And so the orders started flooding in.

How would you describe your own sense of style? 

That’s a tricky one, as day-to-day I’m relaxed. I’m a mum! So comfort is key. Then there’s my aBella side- big hair, big eyelashes, low-cut dresses! I would say, like Barbie, I am very girlie.

What can we look for next from you and the ClaireaBella brand?

So much! The Olympics are coming soon, and so is Olympic aBella. We also have our bikini ClaireaBella line coming soon!

- Samantha Burkett

HH Spotlight: Juli Piechovski in ABC Series, “Don’t Trust the B— in Apt 23”

Growing up in Bayonne, New Jersey, Julianna “Juli” Piechovski experienced New York City’s charms at an early age, but it wasn’t long before she found herself in Florida, attending the University of Florida for college, then traveling to the South of France and Poland, and then moving to LA. But, now, back in the gist of NYC, Piechovski admits, “I’m glad to be back here!” 

You may recognize Piechovski from her emotional and outspoken role as Ellen, in the new ABC series, “Don’t Trust the B— in Apt 23,” starring James Van Der Beek and Krysten Ritter.So, how did Piechovski land the role? “The director just loved my picture!” she admits. Not everyone is as lucky, but it’s obvious Piechovski has had what it takes, since her starring role in the film, “Jane,” when she won Best Actress. “It was one of the best moments of my life. There have been several beautiful moments that I hold dear and treasure, but when acting, you’re unveiling your deepest and darkest self to be seen forever on film. And when you’ve done that enough, it is just so great to get a monumental acknowledgment back,” she explains.

Now, having worked alongside James Van Der Beek in the ABC series, Piechovski boasts, “He’s very down to earth– a very nice guy. And he’s happily married, ladies!” (Haha, thanks!)

And, as for Piechovski’s words of wisdom for other actresses in NYC, “There are enough stages in New York for everybody- get on one.”

How did it feel to land the role in “Don’t Trust the B— in Apt 23?”

“Don’t Trust the B” has been my big break! I mean I’ve starred in feature films and won awards, but when the whole nation is watching you on ABC, it’s legit.

Theater, film or television?

There is nothing like being trapped in a theatre for months with good, crazy actors that you love, and the reward of the shows… it’s soul filling. Television is also great fun; it’s fast-paced and great publicity. But, I’m a film gal. I just think it’s the best medium to tell a good story. 

Tell us about the character you play in “Don’t Trust the B.”

Ellen. Oh, Ellen. There is a scene we shot where one of the characters gets a “real job” outside of “It’s Just Beans” (the coffee shop in the show), and Ellen cries, “Everybody leaves!” She is a lot of fun to play.

Do you feel that the character you play in “Don’t Trust the B” is a lot like you? 

I don’t. But, I think she’s a lot like a side of me– that side when I get super emotional or very serious, passionate and involved about something; so I just amp that up.

We love fashion, so how would you describe your personal style and how does it differ from your character in “Don’t Trust the B?” 

I’m not going to hide that I’m a tomboy! I love to be comfortable. But it’s very funny, because it’s that- or I’m totally dressed to the nines and killing it. A pet peeve of mine is anything that comes too high on my neck! I get claustrophobic! I can’t wear a turtleneck or anything that covers too much of my décolletage. I’d say I’m all about whatever accentuates the feminine figure, and very classic fashions. Like right now in my luggage to Cannes, I’ve packed my Chanel glasses and Chopard perfume. I’m set. And Ellen- she’s totally the tomboy– boots and all.

What can we look forward to next from you?

Well I’m on my way to Cannes Film Festival right now! I don’t know how it happened, but I am in two films there this year. I star in “The Fantastic Clown Club,” and have a smaller role in “Choices.” I’m going with my Mom– I think she’s more excited than I am. And I just heard that “Don’t Trust the B” got picked up for a second season. So, here’s to America seeing more of Ellen!

- Samantha Burkett

We Adore-a the Fedora

Although traditionally designed for and worn by men, the Fedora, is showing up more and more in clothing stores such as Urban Outfitters and Nordstrom, and atop every stylish starlet’s head. 

A trendsetter last summer, and one that is hanging on this summer too, the fedora can be found in the standard grey, black felt, or in the crème straw summer look with a black ribbon band. This is certainly not an item to be worn into the typical work office (although, the HerHattan office approves) or in the evening, but it is perfect for a lazy day in the park or shopping on Manhattan’s trendy streets. Plus, it’s practical too, shielding your face from harmful UV rays this summer.

(via: beadslaceandshoes)

(via: style miroir)

- Samantha Burkett

Shellac vs. Calgel, which is better?

Every girl hates the moment when her glistening new manicure is ruined by a dig for her Metro Card, or looking for that lipstick in the side pocket.

Now Shellac nail polish and the Calgel nail system are competing for ladies’ attention; both offering a longer lasting manicure. But, there are several notable differences between the two options. So, which is the best one to use?

(Calgel, pictured above)

Shellac is a cross between a polish and a gel, and is brushed onto the nail in the same manner as regular polish. Calgel is a soft, flexible gel (said to be non-damaging and without the typical chemical odor). It can be applied over your natural nail or over an acrylic.

While Shellac only comes in 23 colors, Calgel offers 70 color options with extensive nail art options. The Calgel system lasts three weeks and will cost at least $36, while the Shellac option is slightly cheaper, about $30, and will last a shorter two weeks. Although both are praised for the girl who requires a long lasting manicure, Calgel may be the better investment, especially since regular polish can be painted over it, and then removed without any damage to the gel’s original color! But, the choice is yours! Let us know, on our FB Page, which you think is better, based on your personal experience. 

(Shallac, pictured above)

- Samantha Burkett