Lower East Side Living: Plank Pilates

As both a native New Yorker and a Leo, I have a predisposition to boredom that is truly exceptional. If such a thing could be exceptional, that is. SO, after a year+ of barre classes across the lower half of Manhattan, I've recently begun integrating NEW classes into my weekly workout routine. First up: Plank Pilates, a boutique studio located in the heart of the Lower East Side. I had walked by several times before committing, but after taking three Tower classes, I'm now hooked. Majorly challenging in terms of both precision and strengthening, Tower uses a Pilates reformer, resistance springs (yowsa!) and bars. 

Pros: Classes at Plank Pilates are intimate, with a maximum of five students; instructors are friendly. The chic, minimalist space boasts gorgeous beaming and exposed brick. Complimentary and yummy infused waters (cucumber and lemon) and cool towels. Lastly, classes are a bit more affordable than many studios - $25 - $30/single, with reduced pricing for packages.

Cons: Truthfully, there's not much to complain about here. That said, there's an absence of lockers, and while there's AC, I generally prefer a colder studio. 

What to Wear:

• Leggings, full-length or cropped (I'm friendly with the reversible Wunder Under Crop from Lululemon)
• Athletic tank, like this cheap thrill from Champion
• Bare feet, or socks, depending on sensitivity

Learn more about the studio, check class schedules and book online at Plank Pilates.

OOTD: On the Power of Wardrobe Basics

When the opportunity presented itself to snap an outfit photo featuring the WIDEST leg jeans ever (J Brand's Kiki in Lotus) in front of the word SKINNY, I just couldn't pass it up. Let it never be said that I can't get down with irony, peeps. But I digress.

This morning, I found myself staring desperately into my closet, wondering WTF to wear. Candidly, this doesn't happen often, but on occasion, even I'm left with a dearth of style inspiration. When those days roll around, my approach is simple -  I lean on the most BASIC items in my closet (hello, take a look at the gray tee, black cardigan, jeans and black booties seen above...it doesn't get much easier!) and then spice them up with a little accessory love (today some colorful statement bangles, a bedazzled safety pin necklace and my trustworthy gold pyramid stud earrings.)

Head to toe:

• MAC Russian Red Lipstick
• J. Crew Merino Wool Cardigan (no longer available, a myriad of alternate cardigans here, however)
• HUDSON Collection Tank (no longer available/gift)
• CC Skye Safety Pin Necklace (no longer available)
• J Brand Kiki Bell Bottom in Lotus (gift)
• Charles Jourdan Alda Ankle Boot
• Jessica Kagan Cushman "When I'm Good I'm Very Good But When I'm Bad I'm Better" and " You Can Agree With Me or You Can Be Wrong" Bracelets

 

What's your approach to sartorially-challenged days? Do tell, I can always use a little further inspiration.

Photo snapped by Felicia "That broke my heart, Dina" Sullivan

Shop This: Inhabit Sample Sale

To be entirely honest, I've been living in Inhabit's chic cotton knits this spring. They're classic in shape - think cardigan, tank, v-neck or tunic - yet unexpected in the details - like super luxe, slim fitting fabrics and raw, exposed seams that add a little edge.

If you're in need of some basics that are anything but, you're in luck. The brand is holding a sample sale this week both in the city and online (shop May 18-20 for online-only deals.) If you see a petite brunette at the New York sale with an armful, that's me - be sure to say hello! 

Happy Shopping!