Philadelphia is the birthplace of the cheesecake, the Declaration of Independence, James Galanos (American fashion designer), and the yummy Bradley Cooper (The Hangover). It’s home to over 50 different races, cultures, and religions that mesh together into a colorful and vibrant culture. This melting pot makes Philly a distinct and decorative place compared to other main travel destinations. Since it’s just a hop, skip, & jump away from NYC, Philadelphia is often overshadowed and somewhat underrated. A proud Philadelphian myself, I might be a little biased, but this place is absolutely magical. It’s the perfect medium of a fast-paced city life full of skyscrapers, and neon lights blended with vibrant traditions, Victorian architecture, and historical landmarks. When traveling to Philly, the weather can range anywhere from freezing snowstorms in the winter to scorching heat in the summer. Plan your wardrobe according to season, and make sure to account for varying weather. Philadelphia is a “walking town” making comfort essential during the day, save the stilettos for night. In your suitcase, I highly recommend a pair of comfortable shoes, Converse (leave your Crocs at home!) or my latest obsession, TOMS shoes. If you have been living in a box for the past couple years or are completely clueless on fabulous finds, like me, then you don’t own a pair of TOMS, yet. Get with the program, and go buy some because they are affordable and their movement is the “One for One” program. For every pair of shoe purchased,this great company donates a pair to a child in need. Not all of us can be a Jolie-Pitt, so at least save a child’s feet if you can’t save his life!
Downtown Philadelphia is made up of several smaller districts all unique in their own way. One day you can be the fashion-forward diva diving into upscale boutiques and vintage shops along Rittenhouse Row. The next day you could be scaling back into time with the celebrated sites that fill Philadelphia’s Historic Area. From rock star rebel to hillbilly hick, everyone is welcome—hence the friendly nickname the “City of Brotherly Love”.
Center City (Business District)—this district is the “center point” and the heart of downtown Philadelphia. Save this part of the trip for Monday through Friday since most of the hubbub is going on during the work week. The business district is full of skyscrapers, hoagie and hot dog stands, and a constant commotion. I absolutely LOVE it! The flow of people and energy pumping through the air is so contagious. I find myself on Cloud 9 while visiting. Since 1861, Lord & Taylor has been a landmark and favorite to the natives. It is definitely the prominent retailer. If you are there during the winter holiday season, be sure to check out their famous Christmas sound and light show—which is one of my greatest childhood memories. The Reading Terminal Market has been enticing guests since 1893 with its local vendors. fresh meat, and produce. Here you will find Amish specialties, home-made crafts, jewelry, and pottery. Enough said! For lunch, stop into Salumeria for hoagies and international cheeses. Afterwards, drop by Terralyn: Bath, Body & Spirit for their scrumptious salt & sugar scrubs. For dinner and cocktails, go to TWENTY MANNING—a swanky, yet laid back atmosphere with New American cuisine mixed with Asian influences. Wear black to fit in perfectly.
Old City (Historic Area)—As the birthplace of our country, it’s known to be “America’s most historic square”. The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are definitely must sees, especially if it’s your first time to Philly. It’s as unpatriotic as going to New York without visiting the Statue of Liberty...or the Marc by Marc Jacobs headquarters! Even if you aren’t a history buff or snoozed through US History K-12, there is something intriguing about seeing it up close and personal. Much better than the dusty ol’ textbook. A great daytime activity is Ed Mauger’s “Philadelphia on Foot”. Even if you are the anti-tour guide traveler, this is highly recommended for all. You can personalize your tour, or just choose from nine of his different tours such as “Franklin’s Philadelphia” or “Exercise Your Lefts (Liberal Tour)”. For a Kodak Moment, seek out the oldest living cathedral in the US, the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.
**Did You Know?**
• Independence Hall was where the Declaration of Independence was approved and the US Constitution was adopted
• An item is considered “vintage” if it dates from 1920 to 1960. After that, it’s considered retro.
• Philadelphia is home to the cheesesteak sandwich, water ice, soft pretzels, and TastyKakes.
• Philly fashion designer, Melanie Brandon, turns guns from weapons into wearable jewelry in support of keeping guns off the streets.
• Philadelphia was once the United States' capital city
Rittenhouse Square & Fairmount Park—step into the heart of upper-crust Philadelphia for one of the most beautiful public squares and an oasis of 8500 acres of the largest landscaped city park in the world (puts Central Park to shame)! There’s a plethora of out-door pleasures to partake in while you are there. Great ideas include a picnic lunch overlooking the river, take a jog along Boat House Row, or enjoy one of the many open-air concerts hosted by Mann Center for the Performing Arts. Take a stroll down Rittenhouse Row for an orgasmic shopping experience with store fronts like Burberry, Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, Boyds, and Brooks Brothers. If you aren’t tired yet and your pockets are deep, head to Joan Shepp, Chloe, miu miu, Prada, & Yohji Yamamoto. If you are the average shopper who lives on a tight budget, but adores affordable trends, check out Daffy’s. Everything is 40-75% off designers like DVF, Alice & Olivia, & Haute Hippie. After you’ve shopped til you dropped, literally, lay your head down at the Rittenhouse Square Bed & Breakfast. This European style mansion has the luxuries of a large hotel in an intimate setting. If you are a true Wardrobe Wire girl/guy and sleeping is NOT on your vacation agenda, a totally AH-MAZING place is Moshulu. Believe it or not, this café, restaurant, and bar is a 394-ft. multi-level vessel permanently docked on the Delaware River. If you are looking for a romantic getaway with your beau or an anniversary dinner, head to the formal dining rooms with cocktail attire. If you are seeking an open-air experience, head to the Bongo Bar on the top level deck for live music and a lighter fare.
**Dress Code**
• Since this is the swankiest part of Philadelphia, think “Gossip Girls” mixed with MK & Ashley--sophisticated, sassy, and sweet with a little mix of biker babe style.
• Black works well in this town. It’s a staple color, makes you look slim & trim, and everyone owns something black. Simple enough.
• Fitted Blazer or Boyfriend Jacket (I’m drooling over LaROK “Charms to Perfection” Blazer)
• Distressed Skinny Jeans (recommended are JET’s Ultra-Slim Distressed in black or grey)
• Loose-fitted, floral, flirty tanks mixed up with jeans and boots to create an easy look. You don't want to overdo grunge.
• Boots (finish it up with Steve Madden “Brinx” or any of your old, rough-edged boots)
Society Hill & Penn’s Landing—the southern part of Philadelphia allows you to step into the romantic, colonial times. Not much has changed in the past 200 years. Cobblestone streets pave the way for restored “trinity abodes” (one room to each floor), cafés, & eclectic shops. Located in Society Hill is South Street, which is the self-proclaimed “hippiest place in town”. This bohemian neighborhood is packed with coffee bars, tattoo parlors, and craft shops. It’s a fusion of Greenwich Village and Bourbon Street, but save your Louboutins and teeny-tiny Herve Leger mini for another night. You will feel right at home in your boyfriend jeans, boots, and tank. If you are itching to jazz up your outfit, my recommendations are doing it with a simple amount of jewelry (lots of bling isn’t necessary here) and a colorful clutch for your cell, lip gloss, and cash. There’s great entertainment with street dancers, live music, and different events going down on South Street. If, instead, you’re looking for a place to chill with a more easygoing atmosphere, North Lounge has a great DJ who mixes old school beats and has cheap bottle service.
**Faves & Freaking Fabulous**
• Prescriptives “All You Need” Fast Acting Moisture Cream for Drier Skin. Moisturizing is absolutely too important to ever skip since the face has millions of nerve endings affected by changes in altitude and temperature. Always keep a facial moisturizer handy, whether it’s in your purse, suitcase, or glove box, especially if you are a frequent traveler.
• GoSMILE 7-Day Whitening System—If apples aren’t working and professional whitening is too pricy, try these kits at a great price.
• TOMS Shoes—I know I already mentioned them, but seriously—go buy a pair if you haven’t yet…if you own a pair, go buy 2, 3 or 4 more!!
Written By: Lauren Folland
