The Best of 2022
The end of another year and I am reflecting on what I've experienced, where I've traveled and what I've learned along the way. It also inspires me to make plans for the new year and cross a more few things off my bucket list. Below I'm sharing a few of my favorite experiences (not just fashion!) and hope you are inspired to think about what you may want to experience in 2023.
1. Park City, Utah
Last January a friend invited me on a trip to Park City, Utah during Sundance Film Festival and I was excited to experience skiing in this part of the country. The snow was soft, the trails wide and the scenery from the top of the mountain is breathtaking. But even if you don't ski, Park City has so much more to offer. The food is amazing, there are several distilleries that serve up some of the most delicious cocktails (and where I discovered my new found love for whisky sours!) and live bands that having you dancing into the wee hours of the night. From the snowmobiling to the tourist attraction of ice sculptures, Park City has won my heart, and I can't wait to go back!
2. Coconut Grove, FL
Just fifteen minutes from South Beach is the lively area of Coconut Grove. It's far enough away from the insanity of South Beach but close enough to still enjoy the beaches and nightlife. Coconut Grove is also just 15 minutes from the more quiet and less touristy beaches of Key Biscayne. "The Grove" as the locals call it, has great walking trails, restaurants, bars and farmer's markets. Last February we were lucky enough to be staying there during the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, an added bonus that brings incredible talent to the town every year. If you've never visited Coconut Grove, I highly recommend staying at Mr. C, a Cipriani owned hotel, with an amazing restaurant and rooftop bar. It's worth a visit, even if it's just for the day, if you're staying near Miami.
3. Weight Training (& InsideTracker)
Yup, that's me! During Covid I created a digital course for weight training and healthy eating and used this photo for the cover, brilliantly photographed by the very talented Jenae Weinbrenner
If you know me you know I'm a bit obsessed with health and fitness. Weight lifting has been my go to for well over 30 years. I love lifting weights and challenging myself physically at the gym. I recently realized how much stronger I have become from lifting heavier weights. While I never aspired to be a body builder by any stretch, I can lift heavier weight than most women my age. This helps with so many aspects of daily life, from bending, reaching, moving heavy items, and many core activities. My posture has improved, my balance is better and I have a higher tolerance for physical activities. Building muscle also has so many additional benefits besides the physical aspect. It burns fat, creates stronger joints, protects bone health, helps with mood and mental health, improves cardiovascular health and is one of the major factors to longevity.
I recently had blood work done by a company called InsideTracker, that tells you your true age based on your your blood work analysis. My results were pretty good and I contribute most of this to a consistent and regular schedule of weight training. Studies show that the sooner you start resistance training the better off you are, and it's never too late to get started. I've seen amazing transformations from women in their 70's!
4. Rene Caovilla Footwear
Rene Caovilla embodies the true art and craftsmanship of footwear. And while the price tag is luxury status, it's worth every penny you spend on a pair of shoes.
I have had the pleasure of working with this company for over a decade. The beauty and uniqueness of every pair of footwear they produce is awe inspiring. I personally have collected over 50 pairs of their shoes in the years I've been working with them and I would wear every single pair today. They are classic and beautiful in a way that transcends trends. I recently went back to visit them in their showroom in Milan and after had a tour of their factory in Riviera Del Brenta, right outside Venice, Italy. If you've ever wondered why a pair of footwear costs well over $1,000, a visit to this factory will make you understand.
Talented artisans working hours a day creating works of art in footwear. It could take production 8 hours to finish making 1 pair of shoes. Some of the stones are applied individually by hand, Swarovski crystals glued onto multiple parts of the shoe creating a master piece. It's an investment that you will appreciate for years to come. And while this type of art is hardly a great return on invest, it will certainly make you smile every time you look at it.
6. Cold Therapy
As I mentioned earlier, I'm a little obsessed with health and fitness. Several years ago I started learning about the benefits of cold exposure. My research eventually led me to the Wim Hof method, the self proclaimed "Ice Man". He has been known to swim in the coldest waters for record breaking times, while incorporating his unique breathing technique. He has inspired a movement and people have adopted his techniques while reaping the benefits of cold therapy.
I was naturally intrigued by the whole idea and started incorporating cold showers into my daily routine. While this was not easy and something I dreaded every day, the feeling that you get after immersing yourself in cold water is like nothing else. I quickly became addicted to the process and found it has mostly cured my previous, intolerable resistance to cold temperatures.
Ice baths are typically what some people use to incorporate cold plunges into their routine. But since I live near the beach I decided I would take my dips in the water near my house. Doing this alone was not something I looked forward to. I eventually stopped and instead continued with my cold showers in the privacy of my home. A few months ago I discovered a group of women who do the cold plunge regularly. And the best part is, they meet weekly just a few blocks from my house. There is a feeling of community and support I have found with these ladies that has been amazing. I now do my cold dips with them, and they each enjoy it for their own personal reasons. Follow @ebb.and.flow.ct on instagram for inspiration or join us for a dip if you're in town, all are welcome!
7. New York City Restaurants
There's a few places in NYC that have become my new favorites. The city is rich with so many things to see and do one can keep discovering all the time. I've listed a few of the most recent places I've visited that you may also enjoy.
American Bar - Amazing food and atmosphere.
I really loved the food and ambience at this place. The Cacio e Pepe was my favorite and there's great people watching too. I can't wait to go back.
I really loved the food and ambience at this place. The Cacio e Pepe was my favorite and there's great people watching too. I can't wait to go back.
This place has been around for over 17 years and today is still as good as I remember it. The food is amazing, the sushi top notch, and it has a great bar with good vibes.
Shoo Shoo is a contemporary take on Mediterranean cuisine. Delicious hummus, grilled octopus, salads, and kebabs.
NYC neighborhood restaurant serving locally sourced and sustainable Middle Eastern food. This place is amazing and the food is divine. A must if you're in the area!
Wishing you all a healthy, happy and adventure filled New Year!
Best,
Maria
xoxo
For a private styling appointment, please email me at maria@styledbymaria.com.
