Whether you're visiting New York City for the first time or planning a delightful staycation (which I highly recommend, by the way), picking the right hotel truly matters. This vibrant city offers an abundance of options — some are iconic landmarks, others maintain a low-key charm, and then there are those that just perfectly capture the unique vibe of NYC. With that in mind, I put together a thoughtfully curated list of hotels in NYC that I genuinely love — places I’ve personally stayed in, toured extensively, or bookmarked for my future travels. Whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxurious escape or find a cozy spot that’s budget-friendly yet stylish, there’s something here for you to consider.

I always say that Harlem in the summer is truly its kind of poetry. The trees are full and lush, the stoops are bustling with activity, the music floats through the open windows, and there’s something extra vibrant and alive in the air. Maybe it’s the heat. Maybe it’s the rich history surrounding us. Either way, I find myself endlessly inspired during this beautiful time of year. So here’s a little list of what I’m loving lately — the charming places, the delightful snacks, the comforting routines, and the simple things that are making this summer feel uniquely like mine right here in Harlem.

As the city gracefully transitions into the vibrant days of summer, New York's dynamic fashion scene comes alive with an array of fresh trends that artfully blend elements of nostalgia, utility, and bold self-expression. Drawing rich inspiration from the Spring/Summer 2025 runways, along with the city's eclectic and vibrant street style, here's a carefully curated look at the standout styles that will be defining the fashion landscape of June 2025 in NYC.

June 2025 in New York City promises an exciting and diverse array of vibrant events, ranging from thrilling cultural parades and lively music festivals to the much-anticipated Broadway's biggest night. Here's your comprehensive guide to the must-see happenings and experiences you won't want to miss this month…

I know starting something new can feel a little terrifying. Putting yourself out there on the internet? even scarier. But if you’ve ever had that pull to start a YouTube channel — to share your stories, your art, your life — this post is your sign to go for it.

Whether you're thinking about filming your coffee runs, your creative work, your quiet mornings, or your bold opinions, there is space for you on YouTube. i started my channel from my tiny Harlem apartment — no fancy equipment, no huge plan. just curiosity, a camera, and the belief that i had something worth saying.

Last night, I found myself comfortably seated in a luxurious velvet Broadway seat, where I had the unique opportunity to witness not just a performance, but a reflection of my own life. The vibrant production brought to life the essence of myself, my cherished mother, and every remarkable woman I’ve ever loved, all beautifully expressed through song, dynamic movement, and the authenticity of stretch marks that tell their own stories. Each note resonated, evoking a deep sense of connection and nostalgia.

Let’s talk denim. Whether you’re shopping uptown or scrolling late-night from your couch, finding jeans that actually fit and flatter a curvier body can feel like a full-time job. Trust me, I’ve been there — in fitting rooms with jeans that won’t budge past the thighs or waistbands that gap like I’m smuggling snacks.

But here’s the good news: the denim game is finally catching up. There are more brands, more styles, and more body-conscious designs that celebrate curves — not hide them. So today, I’m breaking down the best denim styles for curvy and plus-size women, based on comfort, fit, and real-life wearability.

I know the concepts of “slow living” and “New York City” don’t usually belong together in the same sentence or conversation. However, somehow, the vibrant neighborhood of Harlem makes it all come together beautifully and makes perfect sense. When I first moved here, I found myself unexpectedly caught in hustle mode 24/7—endlessly chasing every freelance gig, staying up way too late editing my work, and trying to make everything happen all at once while feeling overwhelmed. Sound familiar?

This is your official permission to ditch those tight jeans and wholeheartedly say yes to wide-leg pants all summer long. As a curvy girl living in the bustling city (which means I’m walking everywhere and sweating almost constantly), wide-leg styles have become my reliable go-to. They are wonderfully breezy, easy to dress up for a special occasion or down for a casual outing, and they make me feel like the main character every single time I stroll down 125th Street.

I've been a dedicated fan of As Ever for quite a while now, and I'm genuinely thrilled to share my thoughts and insights on this exceptional brand with you. As someone who deeply values simplicity, quality craftsmanship, and thoughtful purpose in clothing, I have found As Ever to be a perfect fit for my lifestyle and personal aesthetic.

I wanted to take a moment to share something that has been on my mind lately – the incredible and transformative healing power of music. Whether it's a deeply emotional soulful ballad, an uplifting and energizing anthem, or a soothing melody, music has a unique ability to touch our hearts and minds in a way that nothing else truly can.

Okay, so listen up — I honestly didn’t think I needed another lip gloss in my ever-growing collection. I truly believed I was completely set with what I already had. However, when I tell you that The Outset (in Mirage) Glossy Lip Treatment caught me completely off guard in the most delightful way imaginable, you can believe me when I say it truly surprised me. I mean it. Let’s dive right into the details and explore what makes this product so remarkably special and worth considering for your own beauty routine.

Here’s a thoughtfully curated guide to the top fashion trends that are currently defining the vibrant style of New York City in May 2025. These exciting looks are making significant waves both on the glamorous runways and in the bustling streets, seamlessly blending bold aesthetics with effortlessly wearable flair.

Here’s an expertly curated guide to some of the most exciting major concerts, thrilling sports events, captivating musicals, and unique pop-up happenings taking place in the vibrant city of New York throughout May 2025.

hey guys & dolls — ally here!

So here’s the deal: I walked into Dead Outlaw expecting something quirky and delightfully offbeat — I mean, it’s a musical centered around a dead cowboy, how serious could it possibly be? Yet, to my surprise and bemusement, by the end of the show, I found myself feeling unexpectedly low-key emotional and completely obsessed with the entire experience.

Maybe Ally is my brand new video series on YouTube, where I enthusiastically explore and try something new around the vibrant city of New York. In each episode, I share my honest thoughts and experiences — no fake hype, no sponsored vibes (yet!), just me, my genuine curiosity, and a camera capturing the adventure. Join me as I delve into the unique aspects of city life, showcasing the hidden gems and intriguing activities that make New York so captivating.

There’s just something about New York coffee shops — the energy, the character, the way they make even a simple cup feel like a full moment. Whether you’re craving a quick espresso, a cozy spot to journal, or just looking for a new favorite neighborhood café, the city’s got endless options. Today I’m sharing a few of my current favorite coffee spots around the Upper West Side, Harlem, and Midtown. Each one has its own special vibe, but they all deliver the same thing: really good coffee and a little escape from the everyday.

Okay, so let me start by saying: Floyd Collins was not at all what I expected. And honestly? I think that’s the point.

I saw it on a cold spring night — the kind of night where New York City feels exceptionally cinematic and moody — and I went in knowing very little besides the fact that “Jeremy Jordan is in it” (which, let’s be real, was undoubtedly more than enough to entice me to make the trip). But what I experienced was something far more haunting, intimate, and emotionally layered than I could have ever imagined.

In last month’s post, we took an exciting and in-depth look at 10 stylish combinations specifically designed to elevate and enhance your wardrobe to new heights. Now, let's dive into the next 10 captivating and thoughtfully curated outfits that are intended to inspire your unique fashion journey and spark your creativity in unexpected ways.

In this post, I will be sharing my favorite and most effective ways to stay organized, covering a range of options that include both digital tools and tried-and-true old-school habits. Whether you're a busy professional managing various responsibilities or a student striving to enhance your productivity and efficiency, I sincerely hope you'll find something valuable that works well for you in your daily routine.

Join me on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant streets of New Orleans as we explore the very Best of New Orleans! From the mouth-watering delights of Creole cuisine to the rhythm of jazz-filled nights in the enchanting French Quarter, we'll dive deep into the city's rich history, diverse culture, and lively entertainment scene. This adventure promises to be a celebration of everything that makes New Orleans truly unique and captivating.

Are you tired of feeling completely overwhelmed and unnecessarily stressed every time you pack for a vacation? Do you often struggle to fit everything you might need into your luggage, only to arrive at your beautiful destination and realize you've forgotten something essential?

I had the amazing opportunity to experience the incredible Buena Vista Social Club: The Musical, and I'm still reeling from the vibrant energy, deep passion, and rich soul of this truly unforgettable production. This spectacular musical celebration of Cuban music and culture had me dancing enthusiastically in my seat, singing along joyfully, and grinning from ear to ear with sheer delight.

I genuinely want to know what you’re currently reading these days. I'm always eager to discover new titles that could pique my interest and ultimately make this ever-growing stack of books even bigger for me. I love library science so much; they play such a crucial and invaluable role in helping me explore and delve into books I otherwise would have never thought to read or even consider.

I experienced the most unforgettable night at BOOP! The Musical. This energetic and empowering show celebrates female friendship, self-love, and the iconic Betty Boop. The talented cast, stunning costumes, and catchy soundtrack had me dancing in my seat and beaming with joy. Jasmine Amy Rogers is a star. What sunshine she brings to this production. I’m so happy she went to Broadway with it after the stint in Chicago.

I brought very little with me to the vibrant city of New Orleans. It was certainly out of the norm for me, as I usually pack heavy for trips, bringing an array of choices along. However, considering the city's notorious humidity, I opted for lighter clothing and breathable fabrics to help me avoid sweating too much on those particularly hot and bustling days.

I'm back in vibrant New York City after an incredible week spent soaking in the unique charm of New Orleans! I'm still on an exhilarating high from the remarkable food, infectious music, and delightful company I enjoyed during my time in NOLA. From savoring the iconic beignets at Cafe du Monde to experiencing the lively jazz performances on Frenchmen Street, every moment of my trip felt like pure magic. I even had the opportunity to wander through an enchanting speakeasy and visit a voodoo museum.