Baby, It's (Getting) Cold Outside

Tricia Lewis, our Fashion Herald blogger, is out on maternity leave. Following is a post from her co-worker Catherine with Martin's shopping assistance.

Thanksgiving was almost tropical in New York this year (especially compared to 2008), but the beginning of this week finally felt like winter. If you find yourself in midtown Manhattan on a chilly day, take a spin on The Pond at Bryant Park. Everyone's doing it - even the Old Navy Modelquins.

When your legs are tired and you just can't twirl any longer, nothing sounds nicer than changing into cozy loungewear and plopping in front of the TV for a classic like Miracle on 34th Street or one of my favorites, A Christmas Story. Martin perused Old Navy for some comfortable winter necessities and found this "soft, warm, and comfortable" robe on sale for $12, regularly $24.50.

For a nice gift set, pair that with some fleece or flannel lounge pants ($10-$16.50) and slippers ($10-$12.50). It's such a good deal that you might want to treat yourself, too.

Old Navy, 150 W. 34th Street
The Pond at Bryant Park, 42nd Street and 5th Avenue

How to Skate For Free: Part 1

I enjoyed a little shopping excursion with Jeffrey last week as he needed skates for some free Bryant Park skating. First stop, Modell's in Herald Center just south of 34th Street.

Jeff trying on hockey skates, and lacing hockey skates.

He's already burning calories.

Jeff shows me his skates. And his cute Zara boots.

Why did I think skates were so expensive? At Modell's you can get a pair of hockey skates for $49.99. Jeffrey bought the CCM's, and I drooled over roller skates ($69.99, upper right). Ah, memories! Roller skating on the front porch, racing my sister around the driveway, and stories of Moms roller skating to school. Yes, she was that cool. She also tossed a baton around and was a lifeguard who could barely swim, but that's for another day.

Modell's did not have this important lacing tool (below) Jeffrey was looking for, and he said it's a must-have to lace your skates tight. So we went to Cosby's on 31st & 7th and found one:

Even hockey skates have accessories. Skate lacing tool: $1.99. Skating at The Pond at Bryant Park? Free. Admission is free, skate rental is $12, lockers are free (bring your own lock, or buy one for $9), medium bag check $7, and large bag check is $10. And while in Bryant Park visit The Holiday Shops and check out Bluet New York for the gals, and Annie's Dog Bakery and Boutique for the pet owners. Both are great resources for some special holiday gifting.


Modell's Herald Center, Broadway between 33rd & 34th
Gerry Cosby & Co. Sporting Goods, on 31st just east of 7th Avenue