Each week, Alexa curates a guide to the best things to see, shop, taste, and experience around NYC, highlighting fashion drops, hotel openings, restaurant debuts, and celeb-studded cultural happenings. This week, the luxury list includes Christopher John Rogers for J. Crew, Jenny Bird’s pop-up, and the reopening of Wollman Rink.
Christopher John Rogers, a Baton Rouge, Louisiana native and winner of the CFDA Emerging Designer Award in 2020, has launched a collection of over three dozen vibrant styles at select J.Crew stores and online. The collection focuses on providing people with tools to express themselves through color, print, and volume. The limited edition offerings include pieces for kids and are available on the J.Crew website.
Marcelo Bengoechea honors the late photographer Fernando Bengoechea, who passed away in the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, by continuing his innovative technique of weaving images. An exhibition called “Woven Together: Reflections” is on display at Cristina Grajales Gallery and features pieces created by Marcelo Bengoechea in partnership with designer Nate Berkus, Fernando’s former partner. The exhibition is open through January at the gallery’s website.
The omakase trend continues with the opening of Kinjo in Dumbo, offering a unique dining experience in a former torpedo factory under the Manhattan Bridge. The restaurant’s opening menu includes nigiri and additional courses like oysters dressed with ikura, wagyu with truffle, and koji-cured duck. Chef de cuisine Eddie Lee oversees small plates in the bar and lounge area, and Kinjo has partnered with Brooklyn Kura to create custom sake.
Jenny Bird, a demi-fine jewelry brand known for its lightweight statement pieces worn by Michelle Obama, Selena Gomez, and Zendaya, has opened its first retail shop at 21 Spring Street in Nolita. The Canadian designer, who started with handbags and then pivoted to jewelry, credits a trunk show at Henri Bendel for helping launch her handbag line. The pop-up is open through December 22.
Skaters can now enjoy Wollman Rink, an iconic New York City venue that debuted in 1950. In addition to skating, the rink offers Skate School lessons for all ages and heated igloos for a cozy experience. Two dining options, The Café and Melba’s in the Park, are available for skaters to enjoy. Wollman Rink is a must-visit destination for both ice skating enthusiasts and those looking for a unique winter experience in the city.
