The Sartorialist in Boston and Philadelphia
I think it's time to add a few cities to my "rotation" and will be traveling to Boston and Philadelphia in the coming weeks.
I'm not very familiar with either city and wanted to ask your input on where to go to find great style, architecture, etc. I'm looking for neighborhoods, places, streets...the more specific you are, the better.
If something comes to mind, please email cities@thesartorialist.com. I'm really looking forward to seeing what everyone has to say.
Also - thanks to everyone who responded to my tweet earlier this morning. It's been a lot of fun checking out the suggestions that have been coming in.
I'm not very familiar with either city and wanted to ask your input on where to go to find great style, architecture, etc. I'm looking for neighborhoods, places, streets...the more specific you are, the better.
If something comes to mind, please email cities@thesartorialist.com. I'm really looking forward to seeing what everyone has to say.
Also - thanks to everyone who responded to my tweet earlier this morning. It's been a lot of fun checking out the suggestions that have been coming in.
Comments on "The Sartorialist in Boston and Philadelphia"
When will you come to Chicago?
style-wise, i think the best boston neighborhoods are the south end and back bay in boston and central square in cambridge!
I don't know Philly, but two places in Boston I would suggest are Newbury Street and Harvard Yard (school in session). Two opposite ends of the spectrum.
I can't believe you'll be in Boston! This is great news. I hope you enjoy.
In Boston, the North End has got all kinds of great little nooks for architecture, in addition to lots of well-dressed older Italians.
Boston is so tiny that you could really walk a majority of it (say, the area from the South End, through the North End) and see a fair amount of the city and its people.
please come to providence!
check out this RISD style blogger:
http://risdstreetwalkers.blogspot.com/
I would check out the South End of Boston if you want to find style.
Around Berklee school of music you see the most creativity. There is also this woman, who always dresses in red and seems to frequent the Barnes and Nobles in the prudential.
Hi there- I'm actually from Boston and I'm so sorry that I won't be there when you are, as I'm a big fan and longtime reader! The typical fashionista places in Boston are downtown-Newbury Street and such. But if you have the time, venturing out into some of the city's other neighborhoods is well worth the effort. Jamaica Plain has a really eclectic feel, and my favorite coffee shop, called City Feed and Supply. My favorite restaurant in the city is a great Jewish deli in Brookline called Zaftigs. Hope you enjoy!
Come to Portland next! It's a city with truly unique and delectable style.
Philadelphia- Go to South Street and the Magic Gardens. Also, Rittenhouse Square, and University City
South Philly, near the Italian Market. There is an eclectic mix of people in this area, and you might happen upon something unique.
Sart! Please do a piece on the West Philly area...but do be very careful....don't know much else about the place, except that it has crushing poverty, and crime. It would be interesting to see how people persevere in that environment through their sartorial choices.
Sweet, you're coming to philly, i live right in new jersey. I'd recommend south street, it's the only place I know, but it's always fun
if you come to Philadelphia you MUST check out my neighborhood: Northern Liberties. The place to go would be The Piazza at Schmidt's. Read about it here:
http://www.atthepiazza.com/
The entire neighborhood has been under redevelopment for the past 5 years and 2nd St. will be the best place for your to check out. Other landmarks: Standard Tap, PYT, Dos Segundos, Liberties Walk. I live in the neighborhood so contact me on my blog for more information!
http://indieelectronicalternative.blogspot.com/
The Garment District
200 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 02139
great little shop and fun part of town.
www.luluadores.com
URBN Inc (umbrella over urban outfitters, anthropologie, and free people) is located in the Navy Yard in South Philadelphia. The Yard is open during the day and you can get a bite to eat at the cafeteria in building 543. best people watching in Philly hands down.
Northern Liberties is another area with many outdoor spaces so lots of folks are out and about. Very family-friendly neighborhood with stylish moms and equally stylish babies :)
Enjoy your stay!
Rittenhouse Square is good for philly. Walnut and Chestnut streets are sometimes hit or miss despite being the 'shopping streets'.
I'm so excited my city will be featured :)
In Boston, I definitely recommend the North End. My Dad is from there and I've always loved visiting his mother there because it is almost like stepping back in time 30 or 40 years ago. There are a lot of elegant people.
Princeton, NJ- short train ride from New York!
both are great cities - though collegial in style - but I, personally think BOS is great!!
do you think you'll ever make it out to DC?
Definitely Newbury St! Also, Back Bay and the South End, both conveniently in walking distance of each other.
I hope I spot you while you're here, I'm such a huge fan!
http://lefthandedstory.blogspot.com
@ UESman-
If you don't know anything about a place, perhaps you would be well advised to not make sweeping generalizations about it. My mother grew up in West Philadelphia and I would visit my grandmother there every weekend until she passed. I never once felt threatened.
As a Philadelphian I ask you to please stick to what you know. Keep your judgements on the Upper East Side. Thanks.
I'm responding to the comment i quoted below and this?? I live in West Philly. It's just like any other inner city area. It has hipster neighborhoods (40-43 and Baltimore) it has black neighborhoods 43rd streets and beyond. Like any urban neighborhood, you dont want to be out at night walking around with a nice big camera, but it's as safe as any city to walk around West philly in the day. My friends and I from Penn who tutor at schools in the area do it all the time.
I think you will find a lot of good people to shoot in Rittenhouse square and University City. Penn's campus will probably have more of the architecture and people you are looking for than Drexel's (although drexel does have a good fashion degree proram)
" Sart! Please do a piece on the West Philly area...but do be very careful....don't know much else about the place, except that it has crushing poverty, and crime. It would be interesting to see how people persevere in that environment through their sartorial choices. "
You'll find the best places to eat and people watch in Rittenhouse, Old City, and on South Street/in the surrounding South Philly neighborhood.
In Boston, I'd suggest the Public Garden.
come to seattle!
In Philly, I would check out areas around the Academy of Music (great gas lit lamps) on 1420 Locust and also general theatre district. City Hall is one of the largest all masonry buildings and is a MUST SEE (Broad and Market). For funky neighborhoods, check out Manayunk. I totally agree with Sara about South Street, Rittenhouse (19th and Walnut) and University City (see Irvine auditorium on 34th and Spruce)...don't know Magic Gardens.
Boston is full of cyclists! Two of my friends who live there both cycle and rock climb! Being outdoors is important to most Boston-ites. Although a bustling city, it draws a lot of nature lovers. My girlfriend is working on the Heiffer project maybe an hour out of the city. It's absolutely BEAUTIFUL! (as is she). It's also an amazing cause! If you look into it you should check out the farm. I know that a bunch of bay goats were just born!
S.
Center City where the best of the best come out to show their most prized pieces whether electric or relaxed. I can not wait.
I am located close by the Philly Area. Must sees: Society Hill, Rittenhouse Square, Manayunk, Walnut Street.
Maybe I'll see you there!
Bobby From Boston on Thayer St. South End
Salmugundi hat store in Jamaica Plain (J.P.)
COME TO PORTLAND OREGON
Boston???? Philadelphia??? Really??
I believe various polls have cited Philly as being the least attractive American city, in terms of its people, but I'd have to disagree! I think being so close to ny forces people to make comparisons between the two cities when it's not really comparable, just different. On that note, I would recommend the Rittenhouse area and Old City if you are looking for more high-end fashion, and Fishtown/Northern Liberties and Manayunk for a more eclectic variety. Personally I hate South Street as it is mostly tourists from Jersey (no offense).
A few Boston locations: Downtown Crossing,Chinatown, ICA, Mapparium at The Mary Baker Eddy Library, Berklee College of Music, Public Garden, Marlborough Street, Trinity Church, Charles Street, MFA
You should definitely check out North End of Boston, over by the Berklee area and last but not least Harvard Square!
My favorite area in Boston is in Back Bay - there is a little square on the corner of Tremont and Claredon with darling cafes and gardens, an art gallery and a few theaters - the surrounding area is really great architecturally as well. My favorite single piece of architecture is the Joseph Moakley Court House along the Harbor in the South End. Also somebody mentioned the Garment District and while I would recommend going there - don't miss the surrounding MIT area - tons of young people, students and professionals as well as sculpture and architecture that shouldn't be missed. My favorite building is Gehry's Strata Center on Vassar Street, always bustling. Also the square across from the Boston Public Library in Back Bay sometimes has a market in the afternoon on Fridays.
In Boston, Beacon Hill is a great area for walking and dining, and photographing! the architecture is really pretty and the food is great there too. you can basically walk though beacon hill into the boston common and go into newbury street, lots of people and sights to see.
hope you have a wonderful time in a wonderful city!
also as they mentioned above, harvard square is great!
I recommend SoWa in Boston (South of Washington, a newly developed gallery/loft district near the South End), Fort Point Channel, and the Berklee area (Mass Ave and Boylston). Also worth checking out but with a potentially lower signal to noise ratio: the Common, Central/Harvard Squares in Cambridge, Newbury Street.
In Boston, try Downtown Crossing. You get everyone, from business men, families, students, tourists. Someone already said it, but make sure you check out the Garment District. And even though its a generic toursit-y spot, Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market is worth a wander. Good food and generally good street performers.
The Northern Liberties will yield you young, bold styles and lots of personality. The old money aesthetic is best showcased in Rittenhouse and Washington Square Parks where sophisticated older women wear their lipstick and pearls just like their mothers before them. Don't miss Chinatown for the mix of medical students and edgy ethnic ensembles. Visit South Philly for the blue collar classics that this city has been built on.
As others have said, South End, Newbury Street...and what a funky suggestion Central Square Cambridge is. On Newbury, you'll find upscale stylish shoppers, many from elsewhere, and lots of people trying to look as if they're from New York. Ditto the Public Garden. The South End neighborhoods (along Tremont, near Dartmouth Street and environs), you'll see more relaxed Boston style. Central Square, all bets are off. Vintage meets GAP meets thrift shop. Can't wait to see what you find. If you need restaurant suggestions, just let me know. I love your blog and look forward to it regularly.
check ut the rocket cat café in philly (2001 Frankford Ave). great style and atmosphere!
have fun!
Anywhere from broad street to Rittenhouse park on Walnut street. Old City and Northern Liberties (around the piazza) in the evening as well. Main St. Manayunk also.
When you're in Boston, I'd definitely recommend heading out to Harvard Square.
I'm in love with this Harvard street style blog: http://booksandliquor.com/
Come to Providence! If you walk along college hill you'll get a nice mix of Brown's Ivy Leaguers and RISD's art students. I'm certain you wouldn't regret it.
I second coming to the MIT area! We have a lot of very interesting buildings on campus (Simmons, Kresge Auditorium, the MIT Chapel, and Stata, the Media Lab, etc. to name a few).
Rather than repeating some good recommendations for Philadelphia from previous commenters, one place you should not miss is Chestnut Hill (and Germantown/Mt. Airy). Although it is seems like a suburb, it is actually within the Philadelphia city limits. Many of the houses and other buildings are built out of a type of schist that is particular to the area. Many of the old houses are really spectacular.
Boston:
For more upscale fashion, you'll want to head around the Newbury St./Boylston St. area, for more inventive, hipster style I'd suggest the Allston area.
Aesthetically speaking, I personally love the North End, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Boston. It's full of narrow, windy streets and old brownstones. Being the Italian neighborhood, I think it's some of the best Italian food you can find in the states.
I'd also advise Central Square and Harvard Square in Cambridge. Be sure to let us know when you're coming!
In Philly: 3rd St. in Old City is lined with fabulous independent clothing boutiques (Check out Vagabond, Franklin Square and Third Street Habit), art galleries, and vintage and designed furniture stores.
Northern Liberties is full of interesting looking people, thrift shops, boutiques and delicious food. Honey's Sit & Eat is a great Jewish/Southern Comfort brunch place to check out or go to One Shot for their amazing espresso drinks in a beautiful setting- both spots have a uniquely "Philly" aesthetic.
West Philly, especially off of Baltimore Ave. has a super alternative vibe. Activists, college kids, grad students, and various people living various alternative lifestyles to be found here. The architecture is beautiful around there and is quite unique for a city neighborhood. Also a vibrant Ethiopian immigrant community here.
Rittenhouse is, as others said, more traditionally "stylish." Joan Schepp and Knit Wit are great boutiques to check out there. Walnut St houses Anthropologie, H&M, BCBG etc.
If you are looking for a true Philly experience- visit any of the independently owned businesses- its what we do best and we do it well. Store owners put a lot of care into how they present their businesses and it shows.
Finally- food in Philadelphia is incredible. Check out Amada or Tinto for dinner. We Philadelphians are very proud of our boy Jose Garces- he knows what he's doing in the kitchen!
Have a great time!
I've lived in and around Boston for my entire life, and I love all of it! Beacon Hill, The Common, and Newbury Street are absolutely beautiful. Cambridge, especially Harvard Square, is exciting as well, with a younger, more alternative, college-y crowd, and both are fantastic. You MUST eat in the North End.
I lived in the North End for 11 years, so I definitely recommend it as a "real" neighborhood, as opposed to an overly gentrified neighborhood. Haven't been there in a while, but Beacon Hill is worth a stroll. And be sure to head out to the Isabella Stewart Gardner museum. The building itself is incredible, she had a marvelous collection and her own story is pretty fashionable! (Ie: Walking a lion on a leash; patron to some of the great artists of the late 1890's). Check out the courtyard and be sure to stay for lunch or tea.
Cambridge has some very interesting buildings, also newbury street is great.
if you are adding cities to your list please consider Mumbai, India. I promise you wont be dissapointed.
i'm excited. haven't seen any photographs from there and i'm excited to see what the styles are like there.
http://wordbyjessie.com
The ICA, or Institute of Contemporary Art is one of Boston's hidden gems, overhanging Boston Harbor. Go for fantastic art(as well as unbelievably beautiful sunset views). I would also try the Beacon Hill area for a classic collegiate style with an eccentric twist here and there :) As an avid reader, I would thoroughly recommend a short drive down to Hingham, MA, for an adorable seaside town with gorgeous views of the ocean
Since you are considering adding cities to your list, I would like to suggest Mumbai,India.
It is by far one of the most diverse cities, especially where fashion is concerned and I promise you wont be disappointed.
If you ever consider going there email me, I can tell you about the interesting neighborhoods to go to, it is after all my hometown.
You have to check out The Closet on Newbury st. It's the oldest designer consignment shop in Boston and the staff and customers are all super stylish.
hi! i agree with one of the posts above regarding your boston visit. that is, newbury street and harvard square should definitely be on your list, but an unexpected and i predict fruitful choice is jamaica plain on centre street near city feed and supply. good luck!
you should come to providence!
I don't know how much you are interested in young style, but two great schools - RISD and Brown University are here and both have amazing fashion sense. more than any other schools in america I've visited.
Come over to Cambridge! You'll find some quirky, cool styles on this side of the river + the architecture at Harvard is beautiful!
I would be very interested to see who you can find in Philadelphia! The contrast can be interesting.
Although the neighborhoods in Center City and the towns are so close together, it can feel like another world. I'd recommend Reading Terminal Market, University City (some of the college students in this area can be among the most stylish especially at Drexel and UPenn.), Rittenhouse Row and if you're up for a short drive or train ride... the Main Line (basically anything along Lancaster Avenue) to capture a very preppy, classic sense of style.
I can't wait to see this!!!!
- Vanessa from PA ♥
A short bus ride away will also take you to the King of Prussia Mall in Philadelphia. Yes, malls usually are hit or miss but my friends and I grew up going here and one of our favorite things to do is to style-watch
Very big mall... tons of labels... bring your walking shoes!
Come to the South End in Boston. SOWA- Artist buildings, off Waltham and Thayer Street. Really great but hidden places like Patch, Looc, M. Flynn, Bobbie's from Boston, Marie Galvin.
Philadelphia- go to Rittenhouse Square or South Street.
I feel like you're being led slightly astray as far as the Philadelphia suggestions.
No way to South St (all tourists, except 4th st where there are some great tattoo parlors), meh to University City (why would you come here and just go look at what the non-local college kids are wearing?) and OK to Rittenhouse Sq. which can be great for people watching.
Cheers to Nolibs, Honey's Sit n Eat, Rocketcat Cafe, and West Philly proper. Fishtown/Kensington is an up and coming neighborhood with a lot of old-school locals and young artists. Try Johnny Brenda's, the Barbery, Memphis taproom, Fathom or Kraftwork in that area.
Another of my favorite hangs is the Sidecar on Christian St.
Check out the Philly fashion blog Broad and Market for more ideas :)
Rittenhouse Square and University City in Philly to see the younger stuff, no doubt!
Oh, and no one is mentioning Temple University, up in N. Philly and out of bounds for most people who won't leave Center City.
More local kids end up at Temple than out-of-towners, and you can find some eclectic styles.
Agree with all the above for Philly, Broad, Market, Walnut, Old City, Rittenhouse, Northern Liberties, University City are all great places to go....also since it's getting nice out you may have luck in Logan's Circle (people tend to sit around the fountain) and maybe in front of the art museum? Luckily it's a pretty walkable city, so you can very easily cover a lot of territory! Can't wait to see your findings!
old city in philly
Orig from Philly. Rittenhouse Sq (16th/Walnut) for architecture, Independence Hall/Delany St. area-history. South Philly-food/Itl market. South Street-nightlife. Penns Landing area. Fabulous shopping Walnut St. Enjoy!
So happy you're coming to Boston! Contrary to what many other people have said, I wouldn't bother with Newbury st. It's a giant outdoor mall, basically. Definitely check out the huntington avenue/museum of fine arts/massachusetts college of art area, the students at MassArt and the museum school are some of the most stylish bostonians.
Boston. I am flattered. South End, North End (Hanover and Salem run parallel and define most of the busy parts with wonderful side streets from there, Back Bay, Beacon Street, Marlborough, Commonwealth, Newbury - lower Newbury a great hang out spot for youngsters - uppper has Chanel and the Taj - and Boylston run parallel from Arlington St to Mass Ave. the Public Garden and Common are at the Arlington Street end and lead to Downtown Crossing then the Financial District towards thge water, Beacon Hill is askance, Harvard Square is central Cambridge, Central Square is grittier and just as wonderful, Allston is outside the city proper and home to rockers and students. They are all great ideas. looking forward to your posts.
COME TO HARVARD
i would definitely hit central square, though try to get there at dusk or in the early evening -- the intersection of mass ave and brookline st, where the middle east is located, is a hub (or, arguably, THE hub) for local musicians. the murals in that neighborhood are also fantastic.
This comment has been removed by the author.
Philly is a wonderful city with very much it's own vibe. As a philly native I would advise you to stay away from the South Street area. It's the place you bring visitors who you aren't really friends with. For the best of town I would suggest rittenhouse square where you'll get everything from old money glamour to diy crust punks. West Philly is definitely worth a look, the 50s and up of market street are a different world. For the best sense of a neighborhood head south of washington and below broad. There are some real characters. It's worth the trip alone for the old signage and cars parked in the center of the street.
I grew up in Boston, Architecture is beautiful, North End, and Back Bay. Your best bet for Fashion would be Newbury Street and all around the Back Bay. Stay away from Southie, I think the recent movies that have made big names in Hollywood give a good depiction of what you will find style-wise in those areas. I hope you aren't frightened by the Birkenstocks with socks look, it's still quite prevalent, and drab.
If you're in Boston, you will find very creative dressers around New England Conservatory for Music. I guarantee there will be at least a few photo-worthy people chilling around the school or at the cafe which is very close- ERC Espresso Royal Cafe :) Enjoy!, Sonia Mantell (freshman cellist at NEC)
If you come to philly, dont make it just about the city, I suggest going around to some of the colleges because there are so many around this area and each one seems to have a different aesthetic.
How exciting that you will be in Boston! I'm an MIT student. MIT has great architecture, but not so great on fashion... unless you'd like to see kids who just don't care about mainstream culture (multi-colored hair, no shoes, capes are fairly common). I'd recommend Harvard Square for young people's fashion, Newbury Street for well-dressed professional women, and North/South End for cultured, tailored older folks.
Quirky choices are found around Berklee College of Music, not far from Newbury Street/Back Bay. My favorite people watching spot is the Hynes Convention Center bus/subway stop, which is a hub of activity on weekend nights (right by Back Bay/Newbury, across the river from MIT and down the street from BU)
I don't know why someone suggested Central Square.. that's mostly homeless area...
Boston is my home! Harvard Square (or anywhere in Cambridge) would be great.. it has a very Berkeley, California feel to it with some very unique individuals. Newbury Street is the hub for real designer fashion, though its a bit touristy.. the North End would be lovely as well for some of the shots you've been showing of older people. Its a very old-world Italian area.
Welcome!
For Philadelphia, definitely Rittenhouse Square. And if you're up for traveling a bit outside the city, Chestnut Hill and Mount Airy have great architecture. There are some amazing historic houses. You may want to check out South Street in Philly as well.
If you're traveling to Boston you should DEFINITELY make a trip to Providence! RISD (Rhode Island School of Design) and Brown is teeming with students dressed in quite an array of styles. Possibly every style imaginable is present there.
I'm from SF, live in Manhattan and spent 4 years in college in Boston and unfortunately there is an absence of style in Boston. It's pretty much the earthiness of Northern CA but with less effort put into it.
There is a huge "Euro" student population. Find the night club they hang in now and you may find some style.
Good Luck!
Boston: anywhere along the Charles River, especially around the MIT bridge. BEAUTIFUL. I fall in LOVE with it every time I pass by. Lots of students, runners...etc You should do some tourist things i.e. the duck tour ;)
Boston:
The North End is fantastic (old Italian area, with lots of great family run restaurants)... along with the Back Bay. Along Commonwealth Ave. you have incredible brownstones and Boston University (an eclectic crowd) which is near the Charles River. Zaftigs in Brookline is great (as mentioned by someone earlier). Enjoy your trip!
This one is time sensitive!
http://www.barnesfoundation.org
The Barnes Foundation, outside Philly is so unique and relocating! Currently housed in the collector's home, the eccentricity of the original concept (1,500 18th and 19th ce. artworks in someone's house) will not be the same when it is moved to a larger museum in July.
What better describes style than a collection of objects in a home. So much is discovered about a person, simply by crossing the threshold into their world.
In order: Harvard Square, Louis of Boston staff, Beacon Hill, ICA.
I'm so glad to see someone is finally focusing on Philadelphia.
I suggest looking at Old City, Society Hill, Rittenhouse Square...specifically Rittenhouse Square Park along Walnut St.(I love to sit and people watch on a nice day), Northern Liberties, South Philadelphia around the Italian Market, and West Philadelphia around Baltimore or 40th.
As a resident of Philly, I've found that you can't really pinpoint specific areas. We've got random gems all around the city--not just in specific areas.
Come to Chicago.
north end in boston and possibly jamaica plains...
In Philly, for the love of god AVOID SOUTH STREET AT ALL COSTS. Go to the Italian Market (9th between Christian and Washington, Old city (Market and 3rd area) and West Philly (east of university city, 40th and baltimore area)
In addition to what everyone has been saying about Boston, I would recommend walking a bit around Brookline (just outside Boston, about a 5-10 minute T ride or decent walk)- either Coolidge Corner or Brookline Village- to catch some of the awesome older Jewish grandmother style that's happening. Have fun!
Back Bay/Harvard Square/Central Square/the North End (for Boston)
When you're done with Boston and Philly, head on over to San Francisco!
Welcome to boston! Some suggestions for Boston (from a 10+ year resident):
#1 South End (specifically Harrison Ave + Thayer St. near all the art galleries / SOWA. Very warehouse/industrial feel and lots of art types.)
#2 You'll hear Newbury St over and over again. I feel it's too contrived and too trendy. Not a good spot at all style-wise.
#3 Cambridge (Central T stop and Harvard campus--you'll see everything from hipsters to Ivy-Leaguers.
#4 One reader mentioned a lady who frequents Barnes & Noble who wears head-to-toe red. I often see her on E. Newton St. She's truly amazing. All red, every day. Without fail.
Best of luck!
http://phosphenefashion.com
Don't know Boston, but South Street and Rittenhouse Square are definitely where to go in Philly! If you are felling daring, try a Pat's/Gino's cheesesteak in South Philly!!!
For Philly: Chestnut St., Rittenhouse Square, West Philly (Near UPenn)
please go to the college campuses!
You must go to Drink...most amazing bar in Boston for cocktails. They also have a homemade pretzel on the menu that will blow. your. mind. Whenever I head to Boston from NYC to visit friends, it's our first stop.
http://www.drinkfortpoint.com/
come to buenos aires!
Northern Liberties/Fishtown and the URBN campus at the Navy Yard are where you will find the most stylish Philadelphians.
Stay far away from South Street.
I can’t wait to see what you capture!
Visit the college campuses! You will be able to find great fashion there. Especially Boston University! Just walk down Commonwealth Avenue.
http://nesieandherpurplepuffin.blogspot.com/
In Boston, I would recommend Beacon Street in Brookline, Newbury Street and Commonwealth Avenue in Boston Proper or Centre Street in Jamaica Plain. Too bad I don't still live in Boston...
Philly resident here. You must check out Main Street Manayunk, great boutiques. Same goes for Rittenhouse Square (while there try out Contennential Bar Midtown for cocktails).
Food-wise, check out University City, way underappreciated. Particularly The Restaurant School on 42nd and Walnut, good food for very cheap. And now is the perfect time to go (September and February are when the Freshman start, by now they've learned the ropes). Try the bread in their pastry shop. And if they have pickle bread- get some! Amaaazing for grilled cheese sandwiches.
Another great place is Capogiro's gelato. There's one on 40th and Walnut and another around 23rd and Sansom, I think. They are incredible!
oh harvard square FOR SURE!!! :)
For Philly, Rittenhouse Square is one of the richest parts of the city, and it is probably the closest portion to Center City where the shops will be. If you are looking for people who will be dressed alternatively, definitely go to Northern Liberties and hang out in the Piazza.
wow its exciting that you will be in Boston! Stylewise, Newbury St, Beacon Hill, is more designer oriented style. Not very good street fashion like what you usually post. Harvard Square or any square in Cambridge, is more creative, vintage style. The North End and South Boston/back bay is great as well. I cant wait to hear your thoughts!
you should come to detroit. there's a fashion flavor here you won't find elsewhere.
As a student from Boston, I definitely recommend you check out Harvard Square when you make your way to Boston. It represents a wide range of styles and rare and interesting spectacles. Also, while making your way to Harvard Square you absolutely have to stop into Andover Shop and J. Press. Run by friendly older gentlemen, who absolutely live and breathe the fashion they purvey.
Dear Sartorialist... Why don't you make your way to the west coast of the states, Seattle, Portland, LA?
Come to Harvard Square! I fantasize about you catching me as I walk past Memorial Hall and the School of Design on my way to class!
i was wondering when you would finally come to boston!!!
1. northend (i love the archtecture there and you will definatly find great style)
2. newburry street (however you might find clothes that are more 'in' then unique)
3. Cambridge (the hub of city life and where i choose to go when going in town)
4. the common
5. the charles
make sure to stop by at flat black.. they make great coffee specifically the one in the financial district. Boston is surprisingly small so if you let yourself just walk around you will come across some really neat alley ways and will mot likely find yourself back where you started
Philly! - definitely URBN Inc. at the navy yard - interned with Anthropologie for 4 months and was always fascinated by the different styles. It's cool to see how each store's style (anthro, urban, free people...) is reflected in the way the different employees dressed. Rittenhouse square is great for people watching, especially the restaurant Parc - if the weather is nice people should be eating outside, and the interior decor is beautiful, the waiters are quite nice looking too. URBN, the Rittenhouse area, and Old City are great for architecture.
Try the Food Co-op in Chestnut Hill, (19118), occasionally surprised by the chic patrons who are a mix of ages and backgounds, also Cake a lunch
spot pretty sure I saw a Birkin in there the last
week-day I was there.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chestnut_Hill,_Philadelphia,_Pennsylvania
i was wondering when you would finally make it to my town (boston) go to the northend...... they have some great architecture (what your looking for in clothes as well) then you should make your way to newburry street of course (but you may foind more of the clothes that are 'in' then definite unique styles) you should go to cambridge. Just walk around town... its surprisingly small becasue i have often just walked with my friends and have found myself back where i began when i though i was going the opposite direction. Don't forget to stop by the common and the charles
Franklin Fountain in Philly is a delicious homemade ice cream place with an old time-y feel. if the customers aren't well dressed the servers' outfits along with the decor are worth it!
Davis Square or Union Sqaure in Somerville. Newbury street is awful. Flour bakery in the South End. Pod, Cuttys and Cafe Fixe in Brookline.
I have thought for a while that you should visit Oxford in the UK. It is home to so many well dressed women and smartly dressed men. Also, there is a shop I imagine you would love called Ede and Ravenscroft.
I appreciate that it's ages away and that you're a busy man but the UK is such a stylish and eclectic place and you definitely do not shoot here enough!
Just some advice from a fan. :)
Architecture wise, Boston is amazing. For contemporary fare head to MIT's campus to check out the work of Gerhy and IM Pei. Also, they have a center court in one of their buildings where the floor is a Cy Twombly design. The general feel of MIT is breathtaking, and it is awe-inspiring to consider the work being done there. In the spring the center mall that leads down Commonwealth to the Commons is beautiful. The South End gives off the appearance of walking around London, the food is also amazing there!
For fashion...let's see. For your usual New England Preppy style I would go to Charles Street and Harvard Square, anything fashion forward would most likely be on Newbury Street. If you want to take snapshots of quirky yet inspiring ensembles I would head to Allston, Central Square, and China Town (the former Combat Zone).
Oh! You must go to Bodega. It's around the corner from a 7-11 on Massachusetts Ave. going towards the Christian Science center. It looks like an actual bodega and when you go inside it actually is a bodega. You must step in front of the soda machine, when you do it will slide open revealing a staircase. Inside is a very high end sneaker/urban wear store. The experience is just fabulous!
Boston is one of my favorite cities. Between the museums, restaurants, shops, and history, there is always something new to discover. I only wish I could join you.
There is a wonderful jewelry store in Philly called Bario-Neal. Don't know the exact neighborhood but it's run by two beautiful young women jewelers who make lovely elegant, unusual pieces. Certainly worth a visit!
I would wander into the Harvard architecture school, everyone looks wonderfully unshowered but eminently fashionable. Not to mention cool looking models and lighting displays everywhere. Cambridge was full of a LOT of good looking people, I was quite surprised.
Why don't you come to the west coast? Seattle please!
For Boston, you must go to Newbury St. Also, try the ICA, MFA, and the North End. Try to make it to Providence also and go to RISD. There's lot's of interesting street style within these places.
So happy you are coming to Boston!!
For Philadelphia:
As the previous posters said South Street is a tourist trap.
For higher end fashion types the Washington Square area and Society Hill are good places. They have fairly interesting homes in that area too, there are beautiful tiny blocks that look as if they're untouched by time. Blocks such as Waverly Street, Cypress, Clinton and Delancey.
For the so called hipster or eclectic types the Baltimore Ave area in West Philly is your best bet especially Clark Park during their flea markets. The Passyunk Ave area in South Philly is an interesting up and coming part of town.
You will hear a lot about Northern Liberties, but it's not a great place for fashion, they do have modern architecture.
* A really great place for architecture is the Please Touch Museum in Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park. Fairmount park also has hidden treasures, during the spring the cherry blossoms are breathtaking. The homes in that area are quite beautiful even though they have not been maintained throughout the years.
aside from the obvious (ie newbury, boylston, north end, etc), everywhere from 77 mass ave (MIT) to harvard square (in between is central square) actually has some nice fashion. smart and stylish. nice cup of tea.
Boston is a beautiful city! Like others said, Newbury street is very hip and trendy. You won't see much eccentric style. I would suggest the cambridge area, and Harvard's campus. Lots of interesting people and opportunities to people-watch!
Definitely be wary of Newbury, people call it the Rodeo of Boston for a reason-- lots of poorly dressed tourists.
(Trust me, Im from Beverly Hills and go to school in Boston)
However, people have made some great suggestions including Jamaica Plain, Cambridge and the South End.
I will add some of the most beautiful architecture in Boston is indoors... pubs, restaurants, old hotels and churches. If you go around tea time to an old hotel im sure you'll find some exquisitely dressed older women in a setting that evokes the great old American glamour hidden around Boston
I think you should check Portland, Oregon out. There's a reason why so many finalists from Project Runway hail from there.
Come to Montreal! That would be so great!
For interesting buildings in Philly look at the cool Furness Library on Penn Campus also the Archeology museum there. Eat at the White Dog Cafe. Also go to boat house row and the Art Museum area. Skip South Street. If you get out of the city, go to the Mercer Tile museum in Bucks County- it is in a very unusual building made of concrete and tiles from all ages and places, including some in babylonic cuniform.
Im a recent Philly transplant from CA and i would say hands down, you need to check out Magic Gardens.
It depends what you are looking for in Boston. If you want to see something like 5th avenue in NYC or M street in Georgetown, DC then you should go to Newbury street where you'll see many high-end representations of style.
If you want more of a Brooklyn feel go to Allston and Brighton, where there are many second hand consignment stores such as Buffalo Exchange where kids are more eclectic and hipster.
If you want to look for the european flavor you will find that in the north end, especially in the local coffee shops. The market there also draws a large crowd.
If you want to see a lot of rich women wearing tons of crazy fur coats go to Brookline especially Coolidge Corner on the weekends. There is a large russian population there with many slavic styles and languages roaming the streets.
Harvard is great if you want to see what you'd see at Columbia, Georgetown... many college students wearing hoodies and carrying longchamp bags. Emerson and Berklee have a much larger artistic student population that dress more "against the grain".
I apologize that this comment has become more of an essay on Boston neighborhoods then an actual "comment". Hope that it is helpful.
Side note: Since you are into photographs you should check out the Richard Avedon Fashion Photography exhibit at the MOFA in Boston.
Thank you for coming to Boston! The fashonistas are not as dense as in New York City, but there are definitely niches of creativity. I second the recommendation of Cnetral Sq in Cambridge, and MIT for the architecture (if not the fashion, albeit there is a bit of nerd chic in that domain). If you have free time MIT has a great little museum as well. My favorites there are the holograms.
Definitely check out University City in Philadelphia!
Glad to hear you're coming to Philly! Listen to all who said do not go to South Street--unless you are west of 18th. Also listen to the wise, kind soul who said you should go to Capogiro--best gelato anywhere.
For Philadelphia:
Rittenhouse Square Park is great for people watching.
Also check out Northern Liberties for a young, eclectic vibe.
University City for student style. University of Penn and Drexel are there.
I'm from the Boston Area and would definitely say check out the college campuses, there are so many in Boston (Boston College, BU, Emerson, Harvard, MIT, Simmons, etc). Additionally, the South End and Back Bay are very young "hip" areas and of course on Newbury Street you will find a lot of International visitors the more wealthy Bostonians. It's a great city!!
come to tufts
Don't miss the Boston Public Library in Copley Square.
Come to Mexico!!!
Skip Newbury Street and head over to the Allston/Brighton area for a wide variety of personalities. Commonwealth Avenue, Harvard Ave, and Brighton Ave are great places to start.
Harvard Square is incredibly beautiful, quaint, and has such a wonderful vibe to it.
And as mostly everyone has mentioned, the North End is lovely. Head to Neptune Oyster for a delicious meal, then walk over to the State House (beautiful) and Downtown Crossing (wide variety of people) then over to the Commons and Gardens, which is a nice place to sit and people watch.
From there you can head over to Newbury Street where you can eat at Stephanie's on Newbury or Sonsie (always buzzing with people), or walk over to Boylston St where you can find L'Espalier, Ser de la Terre, Towne, and other great places to eat.
Walk down Boylston and you'll hit Massachusetts Ave, take a left and you'll be in the Berklee College area and you can also see the Christian Science Center.
If you walk further on Mass Ave you hit Huntington which has Symphony Hall (GORGEOUS), and walk down Huntingon and you'll hit the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and Northeastern University. Lots of great architecture in this area.
Kenmore Square is another area with nice buildings and it houses a lot of BU buildings and students. Eastern Standard is a nice place in Kenmore Square to get drinks, and next to is the Island Creek Oyster Bar where you can get delicious oysters and other yummy eats. Both of their interiors are pretty cool, in my opinion. If you're in the Kemore Square area and you walk on Commonwealth Avenue toward the Back Bay there are LOTS of beautiful houses, you can also walk along the Charles River and marvel at the beautiful brownstones there.
I really could go on and on.
-Roxana
Philadelphia: Midtown Village (13th & Sansom) home to Barbuzzo - wonderful mediterranean food. The rabbit warren streets, specifically Quince and Irving between 11th and 12th and Locust and Spruce - takes you right back to the 18th Century for a dose of our particular brand of history. Logan Circle and the Swann Fountain... by Alexander Stirling Calder (father of the midcentury sculptor), it's sublime.
Hi Scott
check out Design*Sponge for their city guides. It's more design oriented but you can get ideas for where to eat and stuff to see...
http://www.designspongeonline.com/2011/03/boston-design-guide-2.html
http://www.designspongeonline.com/2011/03/boston-design-guide-2.html
happy travel!
When you come to Boston, don't overlook Centre St. in Jamaica Plain (it's off the Orange Line). There's a lot of shops, restaurants and it's always full of interesting characters. I'd also recommend going to the Brigham Circle area on Huntington Ave. (off of the Green Line) -- it is surrounded by all of the art schools and always busy with young students. Inman Square in Somerville, Central Square in Cambridge.... All good locations!
Of course, it is always a sight to walk around the South End, especially on the first Friday of the month because that is when most gallery openings and open studios take place. Newbury Street in Back Bay is another obvious go-to spot.
When you're here, be sure to stop by the Museum of Fine Arts. I work there and we have a wonderful exhibit on African dress and textiles opening on April 13.
Bon chance!
wish u could come to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia someday!
www.travelistah.blogspot.com
Forgot to add - Northern Liberties and Fishtown in Philadelphia - young and inspiring style!
chicdisplay.blogspot.com
when are you coming to montreal???
I suggest in Philadelphia Northern Liberties, Rittenhouse Square, Olde City and in around the Temple University campus in North Philadelphia. Another great old building is the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. The Academy has a world class art school and the greatest surviving example of Victorian Gothic in the US.
i'd like to make the kind suggestion for Denver at some point ~ some tight style finds it way for a fairly small city experience
Welcome in advance! You should put Harvard Square. I agree with Cristina about the architecture school. Design students always look snazzy :)
Thrilled you'll be in Boston!
Architecturally Speaking:
Do not miss the Boston Public Library. I live around the corner but only just recently discovered it. There's a gorgeous courtyard in the middle that is so peaceful and serene, you forget your in the middle of a bustling city. Just outside in Copley Square is a beautiful old church situated immediately next to a modern, glass office building. I've always loved the contrast between the two. The Christian Science Center is a stunning building with an infinity pool and fountain on its grounds.
For the Views:
Cross the Seaport Blvd bridge and take a left down the foot path for a breathtaking view of Boston - especially as the sun sets. On the other side, Memorial Drive in Cambridge (over the Mass Ave Bridge) has an incredible skyline view.
People & Places:
To echo some other suggestions, Newbury Street, South End (especially Tremont/Union Park/Shawmut,) SoWa, Boston Common/Public Garden, North End, and Downtown Crossing. The Financial District all but shuts down on the weekend, so you probably won't see many passers by.
I think you'll be surprised by how walkable a city Boston is. You can cover end to end in about 2 hours at a normal walking pace. I'm happy to offer any other recommendations & sincerely hope we bump into each other :)
Harvard Yard and Harvard Square are both filled with stylish students and visitors. Plus there will be gorgeous red brick backdrops!
Newbury Street
Huntington and Mass Ave near Berklee and Northeastern University - a lot of international students
Harvard Square !!!
OMGG im so excited!! cant wait ! def newbury st and huntington ave!
newbury st, near northeastern university and mass ave.. alot of fashion! hope to see u!
Philadelphia is a neighborhood city.
Go to 50th and Baltimore Ave in W. Philly
gorgeous old Victorian architecture, trolley tracks, porches, gospel music in the park, food co-op, hippies, artists, gentrifiers, african immigrants, murals, bikes, community accupuncture
South Philly Italian Market Christian and 9th
and further south along Passyunk Ave near 12th street.
Northern Liberties/ Kensington/Fishtown, Lofts, Artists, feels a little like a smaller Brooklyn warehouse district. Neighborhoods in rapid transition.
I also really like the cute little colonial houses, window boxes and occasional byob restaurant of Queen's Village. Catherine, Fitzwater, Bainbridge east of 6th street
Go to the waterfront in Boston! Louis is down there which is the best retail store in Boston and so is the ICA... Make sure you go to Sam's for lunch in Louis...Both beautiful buildings filled with interesting people and amazing views!
For Boston, I would strongly suggest Newbury Street, Copley District, Harvard Square, and the store LouisBoston. I can't wait until you visit Boston because you seriously will not regret it. Bryanboy visited Boston and enjoyed his stay here in this wonderful city. I hope it's the same with you when you come visit.
Check out my trendy blog!
http://thetrendydwarf.blogspot.com/
West Philadelphia is not nearly as dangerous or as destitute as some folks seem to think. There's great food (I recommend Bobby Flay's burger joint "Bobby's Burger Palace"), fantastic schools (Drexel and UPenn), and plenty of vibrant people.
I also recommend the Reading Terminal Market. It's right in Center City and in addition to being an intense melting pot of styles of food, it is also a crossroads for a lot of different kinds of people who want a tasty lunch. Same with the Italian Market!
Rittenhouse & Northern Liberties for Philly!
Rittenhouse Square and Main st. Manayunk in Philly for sure!!
In Boston Jamaica Plain and the area around Boston Garden/ the MOMA and the MOCA on a nice day
The first Friday of every month brings wonderful art and people out onto the streets of Old City, Philadelphia. Some of my favorite people watching...
Thrilled to hear that you will be visiting my hometown, Philadelphia, and looking forward to your photographs from the City of Brotherly Love!
Linden Street, Allston
Boston...
You must go to Good! 88 Charles Street in the Beacon Hill neighborhood. Goods from John Derian, necklaces, scarves, leather goods, knick knacks, jewelry, etc. Beautiful homes and beautiful shops around the shop as well.
And u most definitely need to come to Houston! jussayin
Come to Montreal...its interesting cause its an interesting cross between america and Europe...see for yourself...
Also check out my friend's website: www.MSSPIX.com
Architecture:
http://www.arcspace.com/architects/DillerScofidio/ICA/
In Boston, I'd check out what's going on over at Berklee on Mass Ave and probably Central Square in Cambridge - all the Harvard students kind of mesh together after a while.
JP (Jamaica Plain) is a pretty good place to go, too!
As for architecture, the Isabella is my favourite museum...
windeater.blogspot.com
In Philadelphia the Art Museum is a must and even more so the little known and often overlooked Rodin Museum that is nearby. Rittenhouse Square, City Hall, Penn's Landing, South Street...there are many wonderful places to discover in Philly. I look forward to seeing images from my old home town! (Don't forget the Liberty Bell!)
if you're up to exploring the Main Line ( scene for Katharine Hepburn's Philadelphia story) take the r5 train from philadelphia. architecturally beautiful historic homes.
in philly- south street, rittenhouse square, the italian market, old city, manyunk, are all worth exploring
Come to the urban Inc building in the navy yard. Loads of Great outfits going and the area is lovely.
I work for the free people there, if you want to come along I can give you my contact.
Jemma.
Boston:
Kenmore Square and the Symphony Area
The Mass Ave Area of Back Bay.
Newbury Street is definitely thriving with tourists and some fashionistas.
Berklee College of Music may have some fashionable kids enrolled.
Harvard Square.
Do not forget the Beacon Hill area and Faneuil Hall.
I wish you would come to Israel too. We have great style and architecture with an intresting mix of old & new.
Scott,
Two Philly ideas for you. First, Philly is a major medical town. If you go to the area surrounding Jefferson hospital you can get some really great street style with the muc of stylish people walking about in their white coats. Plus the architecture is beautiful. Its the area on Walnut between 9th and 10th. Also extending to Chestnut street.
Theres a plaza on campus where everyone flocks in the nice weather.
Also putting in a vote for Passayunk avenue in South Philly. Great mix of hipsters and true South Philly residents.
Here is link to Magic Gardens. http://www.philadelphiasmagicgardens.org Amazing mosaics! Also, new garden restaurant by Aimee Olexy opening--Talula's Garden-Washington Square area-sister to Talula's Table from Kennett Square-article in Nytimes Sun Mag a few years back. Sure to be beautiful setting and people. Can't miss with Barnes Foundation-beautiful art soon to be dismantled and moved.
Austin Texas would love to have you!
northern liberties & old city in philly! must stop by topstitch on 3rd street.
First comment on the board is about Chicago, same question. Any chance that you'll come to Chicago? It feels like Southern CA in the summer and you see a lot of character on the street. Good luck with everything!
!!!!!!COME TO MONTREAL!!!!!!!!!
one of the most stylish cities out there!!!
LOVE that you are coming to Boston! Lots of students, creative people, and geeks...you'll get some great shots! I'd start out in the South End, as everyone has been saying...walk down Tremont Street and Washington Street...eat at Myers and Chang on Washington Street; the waitstaff alone should provide good fodder for your blog.
Then, head to Harvard Square, and just walk! Students everywhere. Grab at coffee at Algiers Coffee House.
If you have time, check out Fort Point/the Waterfront. The upscale shop Louis Boston has a gorgeous, modern new waterfront location, and the Institute of Contemporary Art has a fantastic space on the water as well. Eat at Sportello and drink at Drink.
Welcome to Boston!
NewBerry Street would definitely be hte best place to visit in BOSTON!!!
Two more Boston ideas:
If you're walking around the Back Bay/Newbury Street area, you should definitely pop your head in the Boston Public Library McKim Building at Copley Square. The entry hall, courtyard, Sargent stairway....
Also not to be missed, the Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum, at the Fenway, breathtaking.
Two people have mentioned it, but if you go to Boston the one place you should not miss is Bobby from Boston on Thayer street in the South End. DO NOT MISS this place has an amazing collection of vintage menswear, and is the most elegant interesting store I've ever seen in the US. Walking in can often feel like literally going back in time.
You should book a travel to Portugal and see Porto and Lisbon :)
Great work!
Don't know nothing about Boston or Philadelphia but I could certainly tell you were to find me and all of my well dressed good looking friends in Chicago! Think about it:)
JTeddy
Alas, Style in Philadelphia is hard to come by.
I am a fashion artist, www.denisefikedesigns.com,
and have taught at the universities in Philadelphia, so I know of what I speak. Plenty of lovely architecture, gardens and great food. Try Dandelion 17th near Walnut.
The best fashion shop in town is JOAN SHEPP @ 16th and Walnut.
And for the very best in fashion Chic art, please visit my studio at 734 Pine. 267-968-1849.
It would be great to meet you.
I drove to Philly ( from Southampton NY ) specifically to see the Barnes Foundation collection of fabulous early 20th century paintings housed in a purpose built museum. The surrounding neighborhood quite beautiful. If you go to the Barnes you need to reserve in advance. It is extraordinary and I will guess as a visually oriented person you will want to take in these great artists. For me, the Matisse mural alone is worth the trip. Enjoy!
come to cambridge! harvard square...there are lots of stylish students !!
First Friday in Old City is a great suggestion that someone else already posted. Also, Fishtown/Northern Liberties.
I hope you enjoy yourself. Ben Franklin Parkway will have beautiful architectural photo ops, as will City Hall.
You can always find a wide range of style at Eastern Standard Kitchen in Kenmore. Plus Fenway is around the corner, so the sox fans are out in their sports gear.
I also think the people Davis Sq in Somerville have a very eclectic style - mixing hipster and vintage in truly interesting ways.
Beacon Hill area and Marlborough street in Back Bay are two of the most traditional "Boston-looking" streets with the brownstones and quaint feeling everywher. Also a lot of traditional new england dressing with some eccentric thrown in.
Coolidge Corner Theatre in (surprise surprise) Coolidge Corner. It's a really old, very special movie theatre that has a lot of character and some great movies playing! Stop by BU while your there!
In Philadelphia, Rittenhouse Square and Northern Liberties.
I agree with the statements regarding the Northern Liberties. The scene in the neighborhood is an eclectic mix of artists, fashionistas, moms, babies, singles--all kinds of people. I work at a restaurant on Liberty Walk and am always scoping out the looks walking around--especially as the weather breaks! Stop in to El Camino Real for a margarita. It is an ideal local for people watching!
Northern Liberties and Rittenhouse Square are a must PLUS head over towards Naval Square... Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters and Free People are headquartered there so you are sure to find plenty of quirky-chic fashion folks to shoot. Reading Terminal Market for a great mix of people (and grab yourself a delicious snack).
So excited to visit my hometown through your lens!