Velvet is the new Black

Last night with Natalie Zfat at the Lafayette 148 store opening. Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images
Last night with Natalie Zfat at the Lafayette 148 store opening. Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images

Last month, I had a pair of midnight (ahem, “galaxy blue“), velvet pants ordered for an event my friend Natalie Zfat was hosting at Lafayette 148 at their new store opening in soho. At the time I thought was I really losing it wanting velvet pants? And then somehow in the past two weeks I’ve seen non-stop articles — even from Vogue on how it’s the hot new fall trend. I’m so glad I chose them since literally from the moment I put them on yesterday, I had compliments at every show, sidewalk and restaurant I went to asking where they were from. Usually Lafayette 148 is my go to for great basics, but this season they have some really amazing statement pieces that I’ve been eyeing. The new store is beautiful, and had me eyeing these red patent leather flats (aren’t they gorgeous!?) and Infinity Cuff bracelet that may need to be my next splurge.

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Outfit details:

Lafayette 148 Rivington Velvet Ankle Pant in Galaxy Blue

Bebe Diamond Mesh Inset Crop Top

Boohoo Oversized Shirt (similar different print)

Henri Bendel Uptown Blocked Satchel

Sam Edelman Hazel Pointed-Toe Suede Pumps 

Ray-ban Tortoise Blue (exclusive to Sunglass Hut)

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This outfit was perfect for the Lafayette 148 store launch party since yesterday was one of those full, morning to night New York Fashion Week days filled where I had no time to go home in between. This outfit took me from day to night (I had a black crop top under my long sleeve top and makeup to intensify the look in the evening). The black suede pumps  and velvet pants really tied everything together and I love how the pants look almost navy or black in dark lighting and then in the sun really lighten up. They are also available in black and I’m hoping they’ll make them in their signature cabernet color as well. I would be totally down for some burgundy velvet pants! I’m clearly having a 90s moment. And props to my Henri Bendel Uptown Blocked Satchel bag for being able to hold my life in it. I had two books, my camera, 2 gift bags in addition to my phone charger, wallet, makeup case… the usual necessities in it.

Check out the new Lafayette 148 store in soho at 423 Broome Street, NYC

The American Express US Open Experience

US-Open-Lara-Eurdolian Last week we kicked off the US Open with American Express. This is probably one of my favorite sporting events of the year to watch. I grew up playing tennis and was on the varsity team in High School and College and a junior national champion so walking into that stadium where so many of my heroes and have played their hearts out always gives me chills. Having been an American Express member since 2008, and now an ambassador for their Blue Cash Everyday Card, being invited to the event as their guest is an absolute dream come true and totally epic experience.

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All card members get exclusive perks like access to the American Express outdoor suite, which features complimentary hand massages by Exhale Spa, L’Occitane samples, and a relaxing, air-conditioned space to purchase food and drink in. American Express also opened the ground floor of the tent to the public for fans to experience the #AmexTennis Pro Walk. The walk enables guests to virtually experience the journey a pro would have as they walk from the player locker room to center court. Highlights of the walk include replicas of the player locker room, and tunnel, and holograms of tennis legends like Pete Sampras and Monica Seles. They also constructed a tennis court inside the tent with activities for kids and playing opportunities.

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Outside the stadium and the Amex Tent area are all of the outdoor vendors –selling everything from sporting equipment and clothes, logoed US Open merchandise, food, drink – and my much needed Lavazza coffee. I took a little less guilt in shopping considering the Blue Cash Everyday card offers 1% cash back on purchases, such as my food and event swag. Although I didn’t go too crazy!

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This was James’ first time to the US Open so I wanted him to have the full experience. From watching the practice sessions at the outdoor courts, visiting all of the outdoor spaces and lounges we toured around the space in between watching the major matches inside the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

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We ended the day with another epic experience from American Express by being invited into their new 70-person luxury suite, the Center Court Club in Arthur Ashe Stadium. Our tickets were amazing but the suite experience one floor above was at a whole other level. Featuring outdoor seats to watch the game coupled with an indoor space that’s air-conditioned with food, drink and screens of all the games happening at the same time, the suite was pretty amazing. Even the bathroom had a TV in it, so you don’t miss a beat.

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Having cash back rewards on a zero annual fee card is amazing in and of itself, along with all of the other perks that come with having an American Express Blue Cash Everyday Card. But the access that all American Express Card Members get to amazing events, experiences and offers in music, theater, sports, and more is what sets American Express apart. This includes everything from early pre-sale offers to more exclusive invitation-only events and premium experiences. (You can check out the Membership Experiences website for more info and upcoming events.)

Learn more at americanexpress.com

Big thanks to my American Express family for making my US Open experience that much more awesome and sponsoring this post!

FREE NYC Event! Meet NARS Makeup Arist, Uzo

Uzo Nars W Hotel

It’s been over a decade since I left my first corporate job, working in International at NARS Cosmetics. It was an impressionable era for me and one where I had the pleasure of watching and getting to know one of the most impeccable makeup artists of our time, Uzo. Ten years later (although let me be clear she was just as major back then) Uzo will be at the W Hotel on September 14th from 3-5pm as part of the W Hotel What She Said event series.

Uzo will provide the What She Said audience with an insider’s look in the beauty industry and her advice on success that every woman can relate to.
WHEN:  Wednesday, September 14th 3:00PM – 5:00PM
WHERE: The Great Room at W New York – Union Square, 201 Park Avenue South at 17th Street
This event is free and open to the public. RSVP at eventbrite.com

Uzo will also be hosting a makeup master class and beauty workshop held in the hotel’s studio space. Uzo will share her tips and tricks on achieving a flawless face in a very product-driven demonstration. This master class will take place in an intimate setting at the hotel

WHEN: Thursday, September 15th 6:00PM – 8:00PM
WHERE: Studio at the W New York – Union Square, 201 Park Avenue South at 17th Street

Tickets are $150 and can be purchased on everbrite.com

ABOUT UZO: she started her career as a resident makeup artist at Barneys New York in Beverly Hills. Her artistry is now known throughout the world and her work has been featured in advertising campaigns, music videos, runway fashion shows, and fashion editorial. Her talent and personable nature has earned her a long list of clients that includes Naomi Campbell, Ava DuVernay, Allison Brie, Kim Kardashian, Alessandra Ambrosia, and Edie Falco. Uzo has also worked with contemporary urban artists like Nicki Minaj, Toni Braxton, FKA Twigs, Will Smith, and Eminem on music videos. Learn more at traceymattingly.com/artists/makeup/uzo/bio

Be Kind Today

be-kind-today-tee-shirtLabor Day weekend is always one of my favorites long weekends. The weather is generally beautiful and I’ve learned over the years that it is the calm before the storm — which in my case is fashion week. I really prioritize making it relaxing since I know I’m gearing up for a few weeks of little sleep, being on my feet non-stop — all while trying to look good for the biggest never-ending fashion event of the year.

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Outfit details:

Doc Shorty Be Kind Today tee shirt

Rag & Bone Zip Skinny Jeans (on sale)

LeSportsac Shopper Backpack

Teva Coromar shoe (James is in the Teva Durban Leather Boot)

Kyboe! Stainless Steel Chronograph Watch

Giles and Brother Railroad Spike Cuff Bracelet

Vintage white sunglasses (similar)

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James and I haven’t been home much the past month so we decided instead of making elaborate plans with friends we’d stick close to home and drive up the Hudson and explore. We stopped in Tarrytown for lunch and then headed to Rockefeller State Park for hike. Set on a beautiful lake that’s a little over mile to walk around and covered in lily pads, we could not have asked for a more gorgeous day. It was so great to pack a backpack (you know I’m all about my insanely lightweight LeSportsac packs) and be out in nature. It’s also the first day I dressed for fall, and the hike gave James and I both an excuse to wear our new Teva’s from their fall collection. While I love my summer brights, I have missed the blacks, grays and more autumn shades in my wardrobe. My tee is actually a new gift from Doc Shorty. They make super soft tees (all made in the US) with kind message and donate 10% of the profits to multiple sclerosis research. It’s amazing how many more smiles you get passing by people when they read “Be Kind Today” on your shirt.

It’s amazing how a walk in the woods, surrounded in silence can offer such a recharge! I hope you all had an awesome weekend! xoLara @prettyconnected

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