Staten Island, NY September 2023

The Style Issue

featuring Eric Eremita

After defining sophistication in Red Bank and Colonia, Le Malt is establishing a new stronghold in the heart of Staten Island. Le Malt Imperiale is here to welcome you to our premier New York City location. Imperiale is a stand-out luxury destination for our version of classic drinks and fine dining, where tradition is honored and elevated.

The Style Issue

Dear Readers,

I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and full of creative energy.

Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate and explore the fascinating world of style. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the way we decorate our homes to the music we listen to, from the books we read to the way we carry ourselves in conversations, style permeates every facet of our existence. It is the thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives.

Style is deeply personal. And it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, our passions, and our desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, as it enables us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.

In this month's issue we are thrilled to present an exclusive feature Eric Eremita and his new fashion label, House of XIII. Eric is already known for his remarkable talent in home renovation on television, and now he brings his unique flair and creative vision to the world of fashion. Discover the story behind his exciting new venture.

Continuing this exploration of style, we are delighted to share a very special story on the renowned W Fort Lauderdale. If you are looking for a quick getaway before the kids are back in school, look no further! Discover how this captivating destination combines chic design, modern aesthetics and impeccable hospitality to create an unforgettable experience.

What I've found is that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. And that's something no one on earth can duplicate.

So sit back, relax and enjoy this month's issue. Here's to being uniquely you!

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Brigitte McLaughlin | brigitte.mclaughlin@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Valerie Bianculli | valerie.bianculli@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Giovanni Belotti | belottivevo@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Mike Gloria

BRIGITTE MCLAUGHLIN, PUBLISHER @STATENISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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1: Not a bad night for a Staten Island FerryHawks game! 2: Enjoying some sunshine on the rooftop of The Ned Hotel in NoMad 3: We can’t stop drooling over this Bruschetta Pie at Osteria Santina 4: The Hydroponic Room at a Day Hab Center from Community Resources Staten Island 5: A behind-the-scenes look at our cover shoot 6: World famous sushi flown in directly from Japan at Le Malt Staten Island 7: The new self pour tap beer and wine station at Brooklyn Dumpling Shop

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THE RISE OF STYLE

Eric Eremita Unveils ‘House of XIII’

From HGTV’s Love It or List It to House of XIII, we sat down with Eric Eremita to unveil his new fashion brand and learn how his life’s significant connection to the number 13 has inspired his innovative designs. Join us as we delve into Eric’s captivating journey from TV to Style.

STATEN ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE: TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND.

Eric: I am a born and raised Staten Islander. I got married in 2000 and moved to Annadale to build a home and start a family life. My wife Joanne and I raised 3 children; Mia, Eric Jr. and Evan. It’s been a great ride! I had always been interested in art and when I was growing up there was a big hip-hop, art scene. My clothing line isn’t necessarily streetwear but it does have some influence from this era in my life mixed with a more traditional approach. I had originally wanted to attend FIT and I even built a physical portfolio but ultimately I ended up helping out with the family business; this included a glass and mirror company, and a home improvement company. The design world was always interesting to me.

“Is it coincidence or divine intervention? 13’s have followed me all my life.”

STATEN ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE: HOW DID YOU END UP WORKING IN TELEVISION?

Eric: It was never a plan for me. I answered a casting call for a show on NBC called American Dream Builders. It was a nationwide casting call. I was chosen as a finalist but unfortunately it took two years and by the time I was called for the show I had to refuse the offer because I was busy running a business and had to tend to my clients. Soon after I received a call to attend a casting in Manhattan. I brought my portfolio and contracts with me, went for the casting and I’ll never forget that day because I got in my car and drove home not realizing that I left my portfolio on the roof of my car and lost everything. Eventually I got a call saying Congratulations, we would like you to be on Brother vs. Brother on HGTV with the Property Brothers. It was a 7-week competition, when my wife dropped me off at the airport I said I’ll see you in 7-weeks. She said to me 7-weeks? People get knocked off every week in these competitions and I said I’m winning this thing! I lasted the full 7-weeks. It was a very controversial ending and I became runner-up. That same year I got picked up as the general contractor for Love It or List It. For the next 80-episodes which was about 5 years, I traveled from Staten Island to North Carolina on a weekly basis to film the show. TV isn’t an easy business and I am trying to parlay it into different areas now such as fashion and real estate under my own brand, House of XIII.

STATEN ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE: TELL US MORE ABOUT THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE NUMBER 13.

Eric: I have a book coming out soon that touches on this subject so without divulging too much information, 13 is my wedding anniversary. February 13th is when I got married, Valentines Day and hearts have been special to my marriage. My third son Evan was born on Valentines Day and my wife was in labor on our anniversary. While I was on TV, I was using a branded tape measurer. I had to hide the logo on it, so I put a sticker on it and drew a red heart with a black number 13 in the middle. This was in honor of my family and a way for me to say Hi to everyone at home. I used it on every episode and people started

to recognize it and wonder about the significance of the number 13. Thirteen spelled out also has my initials EE in it. I started designing and my trademark process in end of 2019, then COVID hits… in March of 2020 I ended up on a ventilator and almost died. The day after Easter I basically resurrected, April 13th. I had to learn how to walk again, how to eat again. After all this, I called my trademark attorney because I had never received any update on the process. When I checked my junk mail I found that all of my trademarks were approved on April 13th. Is it coincidence or divine intervention? 13’s have followed me all my life. I met my wife at 1300 Hylan Boulevard. My patron saint is St. Anthony, June 13th.

STATEN ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE: YOU ARE INVOLVED IN SO MANY DIFFERENT ENDEAVORS. HOW DO YOU BALANCE IT ALL AND WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?

Eric Eremita: I do have a book that’s coming soon, but I would also love to do a collaboration with a bigger fashion house. I am constantly trying to re-invent myself. The custom shirts we make are really special because they are entirely customized. You can pick the materials, the collar, the buttons, the threads. You can add your initials and on every right sleeve is a heart with the 13 in the center, so you can wear your heart on your sleeve. You have to pick and choose what you want to focus on the most. I like to think that The House of XIII is going to eventually be a lifestyle brand. I want it to be a combination of all the things that I am passionate about.

STATEN ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE: WHAT IS SOME VALUABLE ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO SOMEONE TRYING TO PURSUE THEIR DREAM?

Eric: Don’t look back. When you’re driving in your car there’s a reason that the windshield is so big and the rearview mirror is so small. There’s a big world out there, always move forward. Don’t give up. The difference is in the details. The details are YOU. Be compassionate and a good person.

Jaritza M. Lima, LMT, MLD-C

Indulge in Urban Oasis

Discover

the

As summer draws to a close and the prospect of backto-school looms nearer, there’s nothing quite like a quick, restoring getaway to close out the season and help you to kick off the Fall with a clear head. Nestled in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, the W Fort Lauderdale stands tall as the perfect destination to savor those final moments of relaxation. Discover pure bliss by indulging in the chic ambiance, lounging by the serene pool that overlooks the azure ocean or pampering yourself at the world-class spa. The W Fort Lauderdale boasts an array of amenities that will leave you feeling pampered, energized, and ready to face the upcoming months with a sense of rejuvenation and renewal.

I was lucky to be able to stay at this destination resort in June of this year and my trip was nothing short of spectacular. The hotel’s sophisticated design and contemporary aesthetic created an environment that was both trendy and inviting. Not only are you steps away from Fort Lauderdale’s pristine beaches, the worldclass pool area, WET East, is the perfect place to go to sip a refreshing cocktail and leave your worries behind.

If this isn’t enough to melt away your troubles, pop into the hotel’s AWAY spa and experience a revitalizing treatment. I received a facial during my stay and thoroughly enjoyed my baby soft skin. When you’re done relaxing, head down to the Living Room for a lively and vibrant bar scene. During my stay I was able to enjoy multiple themed experiences such as a game night activation and an art installation, all while sipping on a delicious concoction made by experienced mixologists. Need something to spice up your outfit for the evening? Give a quick

call to the 24/7 concierge and experience the epitome of luxury by requesting the hotel’s Luxury Essentials cart. This is a unique feature that is available to guests during their stay at the W Fort Lauderdale. You can have this mobile treasure trove rolled over to your room and borrow some luxe accessories such as Tom Ford sunglasses, Dior headwear and more!

While the W Fort Lauderdale was the star of my getaway, I was also able to explore many local attractions which further enhanced my experience. We had dinner at Rocco’s Tacos on Las Olas Boulevard which was a full-on flavor fest. I recommend going on Taco Tuesday for the ultimate experience! If you are an art enthusiast check out the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale for a collection of thought-provoking exhibits. If you are the type of person who can never decide what to eat for lunch, Sistrunk Marketplace is the place for you. Try an assortment of diverse flavors and culinary delights brought to you by local chefs at this expansive food hall. Seafood lover? Head over to Rivertail for some exquisite dishes with coastal influences that’s located right on the water. After dinner take a walk down by the Wharf to experience the upbeat vibe of the city. Shopping on Las Olas Boulevard is another great way to spend your time in Fort Lauderdale or grab a bike from the hotel to do some exploring of your own. Did you know that Fort Lauderdale is referred to as the Venice of America? The city has many extensive waterways and canals boasting some impressive yachts that sit among the lush palm trees. Breakfast at Sobe Vegan was also a great way to kick-start my day, it is located right

“Discover pure bliss by indulging in the chic ambiance, lounging by the serene pool that overlooks the azure ocean or pampering yourself at the world-class spa.”

downstairs at the hotel and offers a variety of delicious options for plant-based enthusiasts. Ultimately, my favorite part of this getaway was the rug tufting class at Tufting House. This was a unique and immersive artistic adventure where I was able to unleash my creativity as well as take home a memorable keepsake.

All in all, Fort Lauderdale served as a top-tier urban oasis! If you were looking to squeeze in a quick vacation to leave you feeling refreshed and eager to tackle the final months of 2023, I urge you to hop on a plane and in a quick 2.5 hours you can reach a world of luxury and leisure. Let W Fort Lauderdale be your passport to paradise!

LEARN MORE: Follow us on Instagram @statenislandcitylifestyle to see a glimpse into our recent trip to Fort Lauderdale and more exclusive content. Also check out our highlight labeled Press Trips for a behind the scenes look!

“Let W Fort Lauderdale be your passport to paradise!

Staten Island Mode

ARTICLE BY GIOVANNI BELOTTI PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL MCWEENEY

IDENTITY, MEMORY, FASHION

Get ready Staten Island, the first ever major contemporary fashion exhibition has opened at the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. The exhibition runs until December 31, 2023 and is a community-driven exploration of clothing choices and their significance in relation to personal and local identity.

Guest curators Jenna Rossi-Camus and Alexis Romano, fashion researchers with roots in Staten Island, have come together to collect and commission visual and material representations of memories and experiences from the island. Jenna Rossi-Camus

expressed her delight in bringing a fashion exhibition to her hometown. The exhibit serves as a reflection of Staten Island’s diverse roots and aims to address broader questions about what it means to be a Staten Islander and the variations in perceptions and lived realities. Alexis Romano emphasized that the exhibition honors the everyday dressers of Staten Island and highlights the importance of personal stories.

Staten Island Mode unfolds in four thematic rooms, each offering a different approach to collecting and interpreting dress. The exhibition celebrates individual stories while also acknowledging the

presence of fashion design and retailing on Staten Island. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on the role that clothing plays in their own lives and how it holds value in their own personal memories.

Melissa West, Director & Senior Curator at the Newhouse for Contemporary Art, expressed excitement about the exhibition, which aligns with Snug Harbor’s vision of being an incubator for bold & innovative art. She invites visitors to immerse themselves in the exhibition while contemplating their personal connections to fashion, history and local culture.

Staten Island Mode: Identity, Memory, Fashion is supported by the Samuel I. Newhouse Foundation, the New York State Council on the Arts, and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, among others. For additional information you can visit http:// www.snug-harbor.org . Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the rich and diverse fashion culture of your community.

PHOTOGRAPHY

FEATURE 1 (LEFT PHOTO): Portrait of the Payne Family

FEATURE 2 (TOP RIGHT PHOTO): Picturing fashion memories, Staten Island Mode Workshop 2022

FEATURE 3 (BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO): Portrait of Janine Detore, owner of Country Mouse, Staten Island

“The exhibit serves as a reflection of Staten Island’s diverse roots and aims to address broader questions about what it means to be a Staten Islander and the variations in perceptions and lived realities.”

ARTICLE BY BRIGITTE MCLAUGHLIN

Healing with Halo

MYRNA REVEALS

THE

MAGIC OF ‘ANGEL TOUCH’ MEDI SPA

SI CITY LIFESTYLE: HOW DID ANGEL TOUCH COME ABOUT?

Myrna: I was born and raised on Staten Island, I initially pursued pharmacy at LIU. I come from a traditional Egyptian family and around my third year of pharmacy school I realized I hated it but took my boards and graduated. Realizing my passion for the beauty industry, I opened Angel Touch, combining medical expertise with my love for beauty.

SI CITY LIFESTYLE: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE EXPERIENCE YOUR CLIENTS RECEIVE?

Myrna: Honest and personalized care is essential. I prioritize patient safety, delivering natural, glowing results. It is important that my clients feel comfortable and trust me. As far as injectables go, I will work with my clients’ budget to create a customized treatment plan. Many clients become part of my business family, and I ensure they feel confident.

SI CITY LIFESTYLE: WHAT SETS ANGEL TOUCH APART FROM OTHER MED SPAS?

Myrna: I love fashion, beauty, taking care of myself and I can truly say I have an eye for this. I can look at my patient’s face and visualize exactly what they need. To me this industry is the prefect mix of medical and beauty. I

aim to create a causal, enjoyable atmosphere while offering the latest advanced treatments.

SI CITY LIFESTYLE: AS A MOM OF TWO, HOW DO YOU MANAGE BUSINESS AND FAMILY LIFE?

Myrna: Juggling both is challenging, I cannot split myself in two but I focus on being present in both areas. Knowing that I’m doing this for my children motivates me to find the balance.

SI CITY LIFESTYLE: WHO INSPIRED YOU TO START THE BUSINESS?

Myrna: My dad, who owns a med spa in Brooklyn, encouraged me to open Angel Touch – a place where people could enjoy treatments without feeling like they were in a typical doctor’s office. I handpicked every detail of the office because I wanted it to be a place people enjoy coming to and also tie in my love for design.

SI CITY LIFESTYLE: WHAT WERE SOME STRUGGLES YOU FACED WHILE SETTING UP THE SPA?

Myrna: I opened the spa in 2017 while planning my wedding, which was a challenge. However, being one of the first med spas of its kind on Staten Island brought success. Facing competition, I stood out by offering honest consultations and a wide range of treatments.

SI CITY LIFESTYLE: YOUR SPA OFFERS TREATMENTS LIKE MORPHEUS8 AND EMSCULPT NEO. WHO IS THE IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR THESE TREATMENTS?

Myrna: For Emsculpt Neo, the patients who are willing to make small lifestyle changes will see amazing results. If they start to eat a little healthier or cut back a bit they will notice a change. Every patient has different muscle memory and some will lose more weight than others but that is a conversation we have to ensure realistic goals. Morpheus8 is a magic filter! It uses micro-needling and radio frequency to tighten and remodel the skin. It can also be an alternative treatment for help with acne.

SI CITY LIFESTYLE: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR THOSE STARTING A BUSINESS?

Myrna: You will only succeed if you want to succeed. Believe in yourself and be your number one fan. People may doubt you but the worst thing that can happen is it doesn’t work out. You will never know unless you try.

THE little BLACK DRESS

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straightlined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

THE POPULARITY OF THE BLACK DRESS SKYROCKETED and IT BECAME ONE

OF THE MOST influential PIECES OF CLOTHING.

COCO CHANNEL MADE THE BOLD MOVE TO PRINT A SHORT, BLACK DRESS ON THE COVER OF VOGUE IN 1926

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says. “I selected this collection of dresses to show the versatility of the black dress and to give women some new ideas of how to wear the evening gown with a train on a night out with her girlfriends or the traditional summer strappy maxi dress while running errands in cooler temperatures.”

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE

FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 7TH-13TH

New York Fashion Week

SPRING STUDIOS

Head into New York City this month for September Fashion Week. Whether you are catching a runway show or just enjoying the electric energy of the city, there are countless events to attend.

SEPTEMBER 12TH

Brooklyn Big Professional Networking Affair

THE WILLIAMSBURG HOTEL

7:00 PM

Brooklyn Entrepreneurs, Startup & Business Coalition is hosting a networking event for entrepreneurs, startups and business professionals at the Williamsburg Hotel from 7pm to 9pm on September 12th. Bring some business cards and join for an evening of inspiration!

SEPTEMBER 23RD

Staten Island Oktoberfest

WILLIAM H. POUCH CAMP

12:00 PM

The 5 Rotary Clubs of Staten Island in partnership with Rolling Thunder are proud to present the 5th annual Staten Island Oktoberfest. The event will be hosted by Pouch Camp and will run from 12PM-7PM on Saturday, September 23th 2023. All Proceeds will go to helping Veterans in need.

A Taste of Italy