As we told you, the debate over which of the many beautiful New York City neighborhoods has the best style is a war of words at least as old and fraught as the conflict over who has the best bagels (it's Absolute, btw). Well, now, thanks to our NYC’s Most Stylish 'Hood Contest — sponsored by those experts in sidewalk-steppin', Cole Haan — we have an answer… Prospect Heights!
What? Are you surprised that the home of New York's most high-maintenance mommies, fleets of Bugaboos, and some of the worst parking in the five boroughs took home the crown? Don’t be. The Heights has all the money, architecture, young, stylish professionals, outdoor entertainment, connected citizens, and shops, shops, shops required to hit the top of the list.
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Don’t believe us? Well then, listen to what our contest winner — local resident Amy Anderson — has to say about her 'hood. Not only has she won $1,000 in Cole Haan goodies, 12 months of Unlimited Ride MetroCards, and this beautiful Refinery29 photo editorial, she’s won the chance to convince you that Prospect Heights is NYC's chicest nabe.
Meet The Winner
Amy says: "After starting my career in the music business as a manager in Texas and London, I moved to the New York City to work at an entertainment agency and now spend my workday at an indie record label. I'm also the voice behind Parker Etc, a lifestyle and design blog where I highlight my knack for interior design, fashion, and my deep love for intimate dinner gatherings. When spare time happens, you'll find me as a third of the team behind Blog Brunch, a community for bloggers who learn, dream and create, together. I proudly call Brooklyn home where I live with my darling and crazy-talented husband Eric.
So click ahead to see Anderson model some Cole Haan in her ‘hood and find out what makes the Heights so darn hot.
Photographed by Mark Iantosca.
Air Donella Open Toed Bootie, $228, available at Cole Haan.
"Some days, I just like to play dress-up and be a little over the top. I saw this dress and was immediately enamored by the boldly colored stripes and airy feeling. I initially bought it for a beach wedding in Mexico last year, but now I'll take any opportunity to wear it. I'm a typical New Yorker when it comes to color (terrified of it!), so the leather jacket helps me keep it edgy but a little toned-down. The camel wedges are also the perfect pairing, subtle yet classic, and keeps the dress at the center of attention."
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Air Donella Open Toed Bootie, $228, available at Cole Haan.
"Historic brownstones on a charming tree-lined street are what make Brooklyn so famously alluring. Even before the days of Carrie in Sex and the City, brownstones were the ideal home for New Yorkers. We love our current, more-industrial loft spaces, but what girl doesn't dream of owning a whole brownstone and sitting on the stoop with a glass of wine during the fall months?"
Photographed by Mark Iantosca.
"The "Canadian Tuxedo" has been making quite a comeback the past couple of years, and I'm proud to sport a good jean-on-jean combo. It's the perfect outfit to let other things be bold, like a lipstick or a great pair of bright shoelaces for my Oxfords. I'm thinking of getting fluorescent lime-green..."
Brooke Wingtip Emma Crossbody, $228, available at Cole Haan.
"I think we get the best of both worlds living in Prospect Heights. We have multiple subway options (the B, Q, 2, 3, and C trains), and the city is a quick 15-minute subway ride away. But the pace out here is slower, the sidewalks are less crowded, and the ability to relax and unwind comes much easier. After being in the city for almost four years, it has been a great balance to live here."
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Photographed by Mark Iantosca.
Optical Weave Izzie Clutch, $198, available at Cole Haan.
"Aren't these archways the gems of old parks? I feel like you always see them in old movies with a saxophone player crooning in the background. Nothing like a walk through the park, coffee in hand, my husband at my side, and blooming flowers all around to remind me why I love this city."
Optical Weave Izzie Clutch, $198, available at Cole Haan.
"Word on the street is that mint green is the color of the season, so I'm thankful that I've been hoarding this vintage dress for a few years (love when trends are revisited!). Spring is a time to slowly transition into summer looks, so the light layering of a sleeveless blouse and a leather vest is a perfect way to ease into a spring day at the park. Plus, I love getting the most out of dresses by playing them up as skirts with a fun top."
Photographed by Mark Iantosca.