New York with Megan Hess

To celebrate the launch of internationally renowned fashion illustrator Megan Hess' new book New York we've asked her to share her top 5 hotspots to visit in the Big Apple. 

Top 5 Hotspots in New York with Megan Hess

Founded in 1872, Bloomingdale’s was one of New York’s first department stores, and remains a much-loved shopping destination. Inside the store’s Deco exterior, which spans the block, complete with a line of fluttering flags, an overwhelming selection of the latest fashions, beauty and homewares are on offer over nine levels. Their shoe department is a personal favourite for finding that perfect pair, so it’s fitting that this is where Sarah Jessica Parker launched her recent shoe collection SJP. In 2004 the department store ventured downtown, opening its Soho outpost. It’s no wonder Manhattan is dotted with the iconic Bloomingdale’s brown bags. Ten years ago I designed an edition of the Bloomingdale’s shopper bag, and it still brings a smile to my face to see it on their shelves today!

The brainchild of London hoteliers Tim and Kit Kemp, Crosby Street Hotel is both creative and cosy. Kit’s decor mixes quirky design detailing with colourful vintage elements. The boutique hotel is the New York fashion industry’s venue of choice for fittings and hair and makeup for events such as the annual Met Gala, with celebrated stars and major fashion houses booking into Crosby Street. During a stay you might find yourself lounging in one of the hotel’s gorgeous loft-inspired spaces, or perhaps wandering through the luscious rooftop garden, which supplies the downstairs restaurant with fresh produce.

While famed for their croissants, croque monsieurs and quiches, it’s La Bergamote’s sweet treats that really steal the show. The glass cabinet of irresistible French pastries on offer at this Chelsea bakery is a sight to behold, from the individually moulded towers of strawberry mousse to the decadent chocolate éclairs. The only problem is which one to choose!

When iconic fashion editor and impresario Diana Vreeland joined The Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1973, she transformed the museum’s reputation into that of a leading fashion institution. Today, as well as housing a stunning collection of historical objects from the decorative arts to clothes, the museum is host to many fashion exhibitions. The Alexander McQueen exhibition ‘Savage Beauty’, held in 2011, saw record-breaking attendance figures and paved the way for fashion as art. The Met Gala – an annual fundraiser and New York’s foremost fashion event, which is helmed by Anna Wintour – signals the opening of the annual fashion exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum’s Costume Institute. The exhibition has a year-round ‘Fashion in Art’ tour, which looks at costume history within the context of the museum’s collections.

Extending over three square kilometres between the Upper West and East Sides, Central Park is the heart of Manhattan. The park takes on a completely different life in summer and winter, and is a paradise in the middle of the city providing the perfect place to promenade and people-watch. Wander through the cherry blossoms in spring, brave the ice rink in winter or picnic in style in the summer months. Central Park is also one of the city’s most popular film set locations, offering a backdrop for films such as When Harry Met Sally, Manhattan and Enchanted.

About Megan Hess 

Megan Hess was destined to draw. An initial career in graphic design evolved into art direction and eventually a career in fashion illustration. Her renowned clients include Chanel, Dior, Tiffany & Co., Yves Saint Laurent, Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Cartier, Balmain, Montblanc, Wedgewood and Prada.

When she’s not in her studio working, you’ll find her perched in a cosy Manhattan café secretly drawing all the chic New Yorkers. 

For more information about books by Megan Hess go here.