For the Habitually Chic Heather, inspiration and design are just two of the innumerable themes that can be found in abundance in both New York City as well as her blog.  Habitually Chic is the one-stop spot for the aspiring artist/interior designer or the curious New Yorker who is simply eager to seek out some new design tips for their ever-changing apartment and lifestyle.  Heather blogs about everything from fashion to photography and doesn’t stop there.  Anything that catches this trendsetter’s attention is worth writing about and spreading the word.  Whether you’re interested in broadening your artistic horizons or desperately needing to impress your high society friends with your knowledge of the latest in haute couture, this blog is certain to become your new go-to guide and addiction.

Tell us about your blog Habitually Chic and what you cover?

I am an interior designer and predominately cover inspiring decorating and designers on my blog (www.habituallychic.blogspot.com) but since I feel that all design is related, I also write about art, architecture, photography, fashion and books.  I am lucky to live in New York where I get to attend chic events and meet top designers and other influential stylemakers.  My readers love hearing about my adventures and appreciate my insider access, candor and humor.  Decorating is not always glamorous! 

Why did you start your blog? 

I was working for a top interior designer and would check out design blogs in my spare time.  I happened to read Style Court and The Peak of Chic who were both covering the soon to be opened Charlotte Moss Townhouse.  It got me thinking that if two bloggers in Atlanta were discussing something that I walked by everyday, then maybe I should start my own blog and write about the design world from the New York perspective.

What brought you to New York?

I had wanted to live in New York since I was little and was lucky to work for a company in Boston that had an office here which I transferred to August 2001.  Not exactly the best timing but it made me a real New Yorker right away!

What do you love about living in New York?

I love that you can get anything you want delivered at any time of the day!  I also love that magazines and movies come out earlier in New York than other cities so we get to see things first!  But what I love most are all the wonderful museums and galleries.  I could never live without art!

What do you think makes a New Yorker?

Having a dream!  I don’t think anyone would move into a shoe box sized apartment unless they were working toward a larger goal!  The fun part is meeting people and finding out what that dream is…fashion designer, famous movie star, successful business mogul or top model.  Since there are so many people living here who have already achieved their dream, it definitely keeps you motivated to keep going!

What surprises you about New York or New Yorkers?

That we really are nice and helpful! It may take a minute to get their attention but New Yorkers will gladly give a tourist directions or help someone in need.

When you leave New York, what do you miss the most?

The energy!  I miss the all the people and hustle and bustle even though that’s what sometimes annoys you when you live here!

What’s your favorite home store?

I have two favorite stores.  The first is Gracious Home.  It is the go to place for every interior designer in the city since they sell everything you could every possibly need including the kitchen sink!  And they deliver! My second favorite store is Pearl River.  They have great selection of Asian home accessories and tableware at a great price.  The rice bowls are perfect for displaying beaded necklaces or matches from all the New York restaurants.  The possibilities are endless! 

Best place to find a design bargain?

Talk to any designer and they will tell you how much they love the Housing Works Thrift Shops!  My best find was a matching set of gold rimmed champagne and wine glasses but you can find amazing furniture and art if you are lucky and get there at the right time.

Best place to find design inspiration?

I think that it’s important to visit the expensive antique shops even if you can’t afford anything so you can educate yourself and train your eye so you know what to look for when you go to the flea markets! 

Best place to get away from the tourists?

I love that just a few blocks over from Broadway in Soho, the streets are quiet and peaceful.  Elizabeth and Crosby Streets have wonderful little boutiques that are never crowded. 

What’s the last movie that you saw?

I just saw the Valentino documentary at the Film Forum and in the audience was one of the fashion reporters in the movie! 

Strangest/ coolest NY experience you have ever had?

I was walking to Bed Bath and Beyond when I looked over and saw a man in full cowboy regalia riding a horse down First Avenue!  And there was no camera crew following him.  It’s those crazy only in New York moments that make living here so much fun!

What are some of your favorite home decorating tips?

Post A Comment And Let Us Know!

December 6, 10am /

Center for Book Art / 28 W 27th St. / between Broadway and 6th Ave / 10001

Click Here for More Info!

November 26, 9:30am / $20

The Metropolitan Museum of Art / 1000 Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street / 10028

Click for More Info!

October 24, 10am

Mary Ryan Gallery / 527 W 26th St / between Ninth and Tenth Ave / 10001

maryryangallery.com

October 15- October 26

Studio Museum / 144 W 125th St. / 10027

studiomuseum.org

October 6 – December 14

Metropolitan Museum of Art / 1000 Fifth Ave / 10028

Click Here for More Info!

One of the most infamous characters of our childhood is now at The Morgan Library & Museum. Over 170 original drafts and watercolors will be on display.

September 19, 2008 – January 4, 2009

The Morgan Library & Museum / Madison Avenue at 36^th Street / 10016

www.themorgan.org

Wouldn’t it be cool if you had a friend who always knew what to order at that new French place, which movies are worth the 12 bucks, or what’s happening on any given night of the week? Well, the neighborbee blog wants to be that friend. Founder Anthony Lobosco gathered an intrepid group of “drones” to help you make the most of the five-borough hive we all call home. Contributors can help find a hot new band to check out, tell fans how to get their sports on without going to a game, even recommend the city’s best flea markets. With friends like these, you’ll be busy as a bee.

Tell us about your blog: what is the premise, what are your main coverage areas, how did you get started?

neighborbeeblog is affiliated with neighborbee.com, which is an internet startup whose purpose is to bring every part of your neighborhood online, from your apartment building to your local bakery (neighborbee is currently in an invite-only beta, and will be launched shortly).

neighborbeeblog was started to highlight all the great things going on in new york city, whether it’s a new boutique or a book signing. We have (thus far) 16 columnists who cover comedy, music, events, fashion, dating, manhattan, film, sports, art, brooklyn, books, food, theater, nightlife, kids & family, and real estate.

What do you love about living in New York?
I love the fact that there is always something going on, always something new to do. - Doug, Sports

What do you think makes a New Yorker?
Understanding the weekend service changes for the subway, which seem to be out of control lately!
- Amanda, Events

What surprises you about New York or New Yorkers?
They’re generally a well-mannered bunch. -Afroblanco, Music

When you leave New York, what do you miss the most?
I miss feeling like a member of the masses — you know, being able to walk out at any time of night, even if it’s 4am, and see other people. Even though those people are sometimes creepy, it’s nice to see that they’re there. - Kat, Books

Do you know any tricks or insider info?
Work from home. - Angela, Fashion

Best corny tourist attraction that you secretly love?
Riding the Staten Island Ferry. -Nick, Nightlife/Photography

Best neighborhood bar?
Professor Thom’s (East Village) - Chris, Manhattan

Best late night joint?
I love a late night run to Crif Dogs, even though on most visits I’m not even eating anything. You’re pretty much guaranteed to bump into a fun mix of characters here as other places begin to shut down.
– Lara, Food

Best fancy schmancy restaurant?
Park Avenue Winter/Spring/Summer/Autumn. So amazingly delicious, and the fact that the menu and decor changes with the season gives you a reason to go back four times a year. Plus, if you do, the waitstaff totally remember you. -Adam, Comedy

Best place to meet members of the opposite sex?
Through friends or a social activity/group, particularly kickball. All of my friends who play have dated at least one other person from the league. It may seem incestuous, but you really can’t argue with the results. -Kate, Managing Editor

Best live entertainment venue?
The subway, those breakdancing kids are so cute! Also I love the comedians on the A when you come home on a Sat or Sun after midnight, they’re perfect for hangovers. - Stephanie, Kids & Family

www.neighborbeeblog.com

How do you spend your free time?

Post a comment below and give us some buzz.

The 92nd Street Y has been a bastion of culture for over 130 years. Supporting a wide array of performers, lecturers and exhibits, The 92nd Street Y brings people together. “It’s about people who entertain and challenge, inform and educate. It’s about people who learn and discover, observe and participate.”

In the beginning the Y was the Young Hebrew Association, serving young Jewish men within the surrounding community. Retaining the original principals of good fellowship and harmony, it has evolved into a world renowned center of cultural diversity, teachings and opportunities. One of their largest cultural events is the annual International Street Festival. Every September, New Yorkers swarm to the Upper Eastside for a taste of world traditions. It’s a cultural bazaar like none other. Whether you’re looking to whet your appetite, enlighten you mind, or listen to a master musician, chances are you’ll find something that fits the bill at The 92nd Street Y.

Find something that tickles your fancy at www.92y.org

1395 Lexington Ave., 10128

Unassuming Murray Hill hides a unique little museum dedicated to the oldest of pleasures – sex. Since 2002, The Museum of Sex has been dedicated to the exploration of the history, evolution and cultural significance of human sexuality. Through rotating exhibits full of images, artifacts and technology the goal is to provide a space for open discussion of sexuality and access to the newest and best scholarship on the subject.

Current exhibits include:

• Intimate Encounters: Disability and Sexuality
• Action: Sex and the Moving Image
• Kink: Geography of the Erotic Image

As well as online exhibits:

• Mapping Sex in America
• US Patent Office Sex Inventions

The Museum also hosts events such as the upcoming Astrology Between the Sheets: A guide to Love and Lust According to the Stars on September 18th.

Bring your lover, partner or friend and let your imaginations run wild at The Museum of Sex.