The Beauty Lover’s Weekend Guide to NYC : Fragrance, Fashion & Cultural Treats
So, I recently took a trip to New York City in January, and let me tell you, it was a mix of winter chill and vibrant city energy, and indulgent beauty moments. If you’ve ever dreamed of a quick NYC getaway, consider this your go-to guide for beauty, where to go, and tips for stress-free travel. I’ll be sharing my personal journey from the best niche fragrance spot, cultural gems and the beauty vibes check.
Smiling in NYC
Considering a quick trip to New York?
Well you will learn a few travel tips from this NYC travel recap— It’s a curated experience for us beauty lovers and anxious travelers. You’re going to get the dress code, note worthy hang out spots, a vibe check, and beauty routines. This is why NYC in winter is more than a city to visit— It’s an adventure, filled with cozy elegance, unexpected discoveries, and a touch of nostalgia.
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Day One: A Fragrant SoHo Adventure
My first solo expedition led me to SoHo, a haven for niche fragrances, luxury boutiques and effortless chic style. I went directly to the ScentBar by Lucky Scent—a sensory haven for niche fragrance enthusiasts. While you can spend all day there exploring scents, I recommend that you walk with a list or specific scent types you would like to explore. Each scent told its own story, but this unique, airy fragrance is among my top 3 fragrance picks. I was enamored with its addictive charm. If you're a fragrance lover, Scent Bar is a must-visit.
Fragrance Tip: Fragrance layering is key in the winter— Mixing woody, spicy, and floral notes creates a scent that lingers beautifully in the NYC crisp air.
Scent Bar NYC.
Scent Bar NYC: is a hidden gem for fragrance lovers. Nestled in SoHo, this boutique is curated by the scent experts behind Lucky Scent. ScentBar feels more like a personalized olfactory experience than a typical perfume shop.
What makes it special?
A Bespoke Experience
Rare & Hard to Find Scents
Try Before You Buy
A Cozy Intimate Vibe
Have you ever been? Let me know what fragrance you’d be most excited to try!
A Brooklyn Evening
Cultural Immersion in Caribbean-Brooklyn
The next day, I was enveloped by the vibrant culture of Caribbean-Brooklyn, Flatbush Avenue. If you’ve never experienced this part of NYC, you’re missing out on a rich blend of cultures, rhythms, and flavors.
The Number 2 Train will take you between Brooklyn & Manhattan
A diverse variety of retail shops, boutiques and world foods are available, all within a few footsteps. Music pounding in various tempos, the cars and hum of the people creates its own melodious beat when you’re walking through the streets.
Stopped by my Uncle’s store, First Impressions Beauty & Barber Salon for a bit of US - NYC -Caribbean indulgence. Absorbing the stories woven into its walls— a tapestry of African American and Caribbean history. The music, the dialects, the undeniable energy. Not only can you get a fresh haircut by skilled hands here you will gain an authentic, unique cultural snapshot. The tones and mix of accents was a like a reggae- soca musical fusion of its own. It was a powerful reminder of the beauty in diverse narratives.
Travel Tip: Sometimes the best experiences are in the neighborhoods you don’t see on the typical travel guides. Venture beyond Manhattan for authentic NYC culture.
THE DEIÀ Bar
Beauty, Fragrance, and Vibes: A Night at the DEIÀ Bar in NYC
My cousin, a chic New York intellect with impeccable taste, took me to The DEIÀ Bar, and now I can’t stop recommending it. From the time I walked in, I was captivated by the crowd— a stunning mix of beauty and style. The crowd was a blend of makeup looks including; bold lips, blush blindness, and minimalist dewy looks. Each face was a celebration of personal style, and I was completely here for it.
The energy at The DEIÀ is what makes it unforgettable. As I sipped on a perfectly crafted cocktail, as I soaked in the vibe. It was a meeting ground for fashion, beauty, and fragrance lovers, all embodying the effortless cool that defines New York City. I was here for it all! My fragrance layers of the night were Killian’s Angel Share with Tom Ford’s Lost Cherry, a combination that earned me a compliments within a minute of sitting down. “What are you wearing?” Someone asked. That’s the vibe of a place like The DEIÀ— it invites conversation, connection and great music.
Travel Tip: If you love a bar that feels inviting, and a well curated drink, this is it. For locals and visitors alike, The DEIÀ bar is a cozy, fun night out in the city.
To top it all off, my night ended with an insightful Uber ride with a intellectual conductor, diving into Haiti’s history and nuanced differences between French Creole and French. It was a perfect cherry on top of a day filled with beauty, culture, and connection.
Fragrance, Self-Care, and Family Bonds: Finding Magic in New York City
Back at my uncle’s home, surrounded by the warmth of handcrafted panels and African art, I indulged in a luxurious long shower and skincare routine that felt like a homecoming for my body and spirit. The combination of L'Occitane Shower Oil, and Josie Maran’s Body Butter revived my skin, while a few key steps transformed my evening into a spa- like sanctuary. (Tap here for my NYC luxurious full skincare & shower routine. )
African Art in NYC
Caribbean Art. Vintage Prints of Trinidad & Tobago
I curled up with “Annie John”— a book that I’d read early in my teens but now found myself savoring a new light, it’s pages carrying me back. It’s a good read, that I recommend. The next morning, I eased into my day with a gentle skincare routine and my favorite morning stretches, all while soaking in the scenic beauty of the city. Over tea in my uncle’s beautifully curated kitchen, where family stories unfolded against the breathtaking backdrop of New York’s skyline.
Travel Tip: Transform any trip into a spa-like experience by packing multipurpose, skin-reviving essentials. They will not only restore your skin after long days of exploring but also create a comforting sense of home wherever you are.
NYC Kitchen Window View
Brunching Beauty: A SoHo Morning at San Ambroeus
Every moment in New York was magic! I took a stroll through SoHo streets before I met with an old friend to have brunch at Saint Ambroeus Lafayette rekindled long-distance friendships, reminding me of the joy and hope true connections bring.
Casual Outfit on a cold NYC day.
This NYC journey was not just a getaway; it was an exploration of fragrance, fashion, and the bonds that tie us together. I invite you to embark on your own adventures, big or small, to explore, connect, and discover the stories that resonate with your spirit.
Brunch, Beauty & NYC Chic: A SoHo Morning at San Ambroeus
No NYC trip feels complete without a SoHo brunch, where even a laid-back Sunday feels straight out of a fashion editorial. I met up with my long time friend— a bicoastal, shrewd and empowering movie producer, effortlessly balancing life as a mogal and mother to three, including her beautiful toddler, who I met for the first time. (Life goes by quick!) Her presence alone is a reminder of strength and grace, and reconnecting over cappuccinos felt like a true celebration of friendship.
NYC Brunch at Sant Ambroeus, SoHo
For beauty lovers, Sant Ambroeus is a must, a spot where the cappuccinos are flawlessly frothed, and the energy is as rich as the espresso.
The fashion forward crowd is a mix of minimalistic chic and bold statement looks. From dewy fresh faced makeup to striking red lips, slicked back hair and bouncy blowouts. Style and beauty are part of the dress code here. Think quiet luxury meets NYC smarts: Buttery leather coats draped over chairs, Prada loafers tapping against marble floors, and makeup that’s effortless but meticulously curated.
The vibe embodies a New York, “It Girl,” where beauty and style are part of the atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you’ll feel inspired to set up your own routine while sipping espresso under the soft glow of their artful lighting. I layered Le Labo’s “Santal 23” with The Maker’s, “Lover” fragrance, and for the 3rd time, I got complimented about my fragrance. If you are still not layering your scents yet, this is your sign.
Travel Tip: Reserve a table ahead of time to secure a prime spot for people-watching. Don’t forget to pack a light hydrating mist to keep you glowing for brunch, this handsanitizer and hand cream to keep your hands clean and hydrated.
Every moment in New York was magic! After brunch, I took a stroll through SoHo streets. This city evokes joy, inspiration and gratitude. Making note with my phone camera of places I intend to explore more on my next visit, my phone battery dwindled unexpectedly. I stopped in at a mobile phone provider and this portable charger has since become my new favorite travel essential. Get yours here.
As I wrap up this NYC weekend adventure, I’m reminded that its not just about the places we visit, but the experiences we cultivate along the way. New York City in January offered a dazzling blend of sensory delights, cultural insights, and cherished moments that will linger long after the winter chill fades. From the fragrance paths of SoHo to the vibrant streets of Caribbean-Brooklyn, each step invited a new story, a fresh perspective that I encourage you to explore.
If you are inspired to plan your own NYC getaway, I hope this guide offers you the insider tips to make it memorable. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s unique scents, the cozy elegance of its cafes, or its rich cultural beats, there’s something for everyone.
Curious about more details on my NYC adventure or perhaps where to stay? Want tips for fragrance favorites, beauty routines or cultural experiences? Let me know in the comments and don’t forget to subscribe. Your feedback fuels these stories, and I can't wait to share more with you.
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Remember, whether through travel or discovering a new fragrance, cherish every experience and create your own beautiful stories. Travel often, love deeply, and keep exploring! 🌟
Vividly,
Kafi
