As New York Fashion Week kicks off, Melke’s Autumn/Winter 24 collection takes over “Gary’s Loft” on Sunday, February 11. The whimsical designs took inspiration from the childhood classic series Wallace and Gromit, with an equally playful name of “The Heist.”
As the dynamic duo hooked the young and mischievous, Melke was no stranger to that delight. Designer Emma Gage’s blend of trendiness with their signature outlandish—or as they call it“seriously unhinged”— prints lit up the room. The interactiveness of the models scheming for “The Heist,” kept all eyes on every corner of the room. Watching them draw maps, knit a comically sized spool, and even fill the entire kitchen with cheese sandwiches in all their quirky, oversized bow glory surely kept things interesting.
Melke’s emphasis on creating clothes from a place of love and honesty does not stop at the sketch but follows throughout the entire production. The spirit of Gage overflows the penthouse enchanting both model and viewer. From head to toe, the precision of staying on theme elicited more than one look. Whether it be cheese earrings, bow shoe laces, or carrot accessories, the stylization of the pieces translate into a minimalist’s dream wardrobe.
While scarves blew awry and the colorful garden of wool mittens filled the courtyard, Lotte had the crowd covered! While the bar was stocked with apple cider, hot toddies, and champagne, trays of hot cocoa came circling around. Chef Bill Leonard, Lotte’s Head Pastry Chef, warms the crowd with his grandmother’s hot chocolate recipe. It was the perfect remedy for a night cold enough to see your breath!
Mama Anita and son Nir developed the first recipes in 1998 in their cozy Mediterranean kitchen much to the delight of their neighbors and friends. Although the ice cream shop has come a long way from its modest beginnings, the warmth and distinctiveness of Anita’s remains well-established. Morning Supervisor, Nicole Ramos, reveals that the secret to the charm is their daily affirmations with the team members, ensuring that each customer leaves not only with magnificent ice cream but a feeling of being a part of the Anita Gelato Family.
