OUR THA NKFUL ISS UE
EXCLUSIVE: AMERICAN MUSIC AWARD WINNER LAINEY WILSON STOLE THE SHOW AT BAREFOOT COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL
All-On-4 TEETH IN A DAY
The All-On-4 technique uses state-of-theart technology to replace all of your upper or lower teeth in just one day. Our dentists use in office CT scans and custom guides to achieve optimal results.
Using 4 or more precisely placed dental implants with a specially designed nonremovable bridge you get the function, stability and cosmetic solution you deserve, all in one day. And with minimal recovery time required.
To learn more about All-on-4, please call our office to schedule your complimentary consultation or visit our website www.DGDental.com
Step-by-step thorough consultation that will answer all of your questions. All implants placed & restored in our office.
The Season That Connects Us All
November feels like the pause button in the middle of life’s chaos. Between shuttling kids to dance, soccer, and every other activity that pops onto the calendar, it’s easy to get swept along without stopping to breathe. This month gives us a moment to appreciate what we have, look ahead with gratitude, and, of course, dive into the joy of shopping. As you start checking gifts off your list, I encourage you to shop local—especially on Small Business Saturday—so we can keep The Oranges thriving through the season and beyond.
And then, of course, there’s the food. While Christmas holds the crown as my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving is a close second. Truth be told, I’m more about the sides than the turkey itself—give me mashed potatoes, stuffing, and corn and I’m happy. Anyone else secretly prefer the side dishes? Still, my true weakness is pumpkin pie. I honestly don’t know why I don’t eat it year-round. Perfectly good breakfast, dessert, or midnight snack—though in my world, a “midnight snack” really means 9 p.m. This year, I’ll be sure to pull out the trusty elastic band pants so I can enjoy guilt-free seconds (or thirds).
This issue is full of stories you will want to read. Turn to page 12 for a look at W Fort Lauderdale, a sleek, vibrant oceanfront getaway that proves sometimes the best reset is just a short flight away. On page 20, meet the Interfaith Food Pantry of the Oranges, a volunteer-powered nonprofit that now serves more than 700 households weekly with food, diapers, and essential supplies. And on page 26, learn how the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey is bridging healthcare gaps with equity-centered grantmaking, community wellness programs, and investments that are making a measurable difference across Greater MetroWest.
And if you’re still clinging to summer like I am, flip to our coverage of the Barefoot Country Music Fest (page 18). From Jason Aldean to Jelly Roll, Rascal Flatts to Lainey Wilson, the four-day celebration turned Wildwood into the unofficial capital of country music. Sunshine, sand, and a little twang—what more could you ask for?
May your hearts (and your plates) be full this season—and if you happen to save me a slice of pumpkin pie, I promise it won’t go to waste.
With gratitude,
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Kristin Kowalewski | Kristin.Kowalewski@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Sadie Brown
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brunch by DeMartino, David Burke, Nicholas Xavier Hall, Garden State City Lifestyle, Mel Boban
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
W Fort Lauderdale, David Surks, Brunch by DeMartino, David Burke, Interfaith Food Pantry of the Oranges (IFPO), The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey, Garden State City Lifestyle, Mel Boban
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY
city scene
1—2: The Mercy House distributes nearly 800 backpacks and school supplies to families in need. 3: Rigatoni was crowned the Garden State City Lifestyle Doggie of the Year at the Doggie Carnival! 4: Our Garden State City Lifestyle team loved Dink for a Difference—prizes, bites, smiles— supporting Comfort Cases. 5—7: Local community members enjoyed a West Orange Chamber of Commerce mixer.
ARCHDIOCESE OF NEWARK
ARCHDIOCESE OF NEWARK
Iron Culture Transforms Iconic Eagle Rock Lanes Into State-of-the-Art Fitness Hub
West Orange welcomes Iron Culture, a new 26,000-square-foot fitness hub in the former Eagle Rock Lanes. With a $10M transformation, the state-of-the-art gym blends history with modern wellness, offering cutting-edge equipment, expert trainers, and a vibrant community space. For more information visit ironculturegym.com/westorangesignup.
• 100% Memory Care Facility
• Expertise in Dementia and Alzheimer’s care extends over 25 years
• Consulted with John Hopkins Alzheimer’s Association
• Care for Early Stages Through End-of-Life
• Personalized, Therapeutic Programming
• Purpose-Built Communities
Please Call for Tours 973.736.3100
arden-courts.org/WestOrange 510 Prospect Ave, West Orange, NJ
Photography by Iron Culture
Quick Escape
W Fort Lauderdale Delivers a Luxe Getaway with a View
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY W FORT LAUDERDALE
If you’re craving sun, style, and a serious change of scenery, let me point you straight to W Fort Lauderdale — a sleek, vibrant, and energizing escape that’s just a short flight from home. I recently spent a few days at this oceanfront stunner, and it delivered on every level. Perched right along the city’s iconic beachfront, the 440-room luxury hotel blends nautical design with modern glam, making it perfect for a long weekend (or a midweek recharge) in Florida. And as the Publication Director for Garden State City Lifestyle, I’m grateful that I was invited to experience this first hand at the W Fort Lauderdale.
WHERE OCEAN MEETS EDGE
The vibe hits you the second you pull up under the soaring, sail-like porte cochere. Everything feels intentional — from the hand-woven overhead sails and looped light fixtures to the floor-to-ceiling windows that keep the ocean in constant view. My room was a peaceful retreat with ombré blue curtains, wave-inspired carpets, a plush W Signature Bed, and views I didn’t want to leave.
POOL GOALS, ACHIEVED
W Fort Lauderdale has two incredible pool decks: WET East, which is buzzy and social with weekend DJs, glass walls for the perfect selfie backdrop, and colorful cocktails that make pool days feel like an event.
Publication Director Carly Mac Manus in the Veuve Clicquot Bungalow
But if you’re more in the mood to relax (like I was by Day 2), WET West is your spot — quieter, more serene, and perfectly positioned for sunset views.
One thing I highly recommend? Elevating the pool experience with a Veuve Clicquot Bungalow. We booked one for the day, and it was the ultimate treat — comfy loungers, shaded seating, champagne on ice, and service that made it feel like our own private oasis.
BITES & SIPS THAT HIT THE SPOT
Food and drink — or as W calls it, B&F (Beverage & Food) — are a huge part of the experience. We kicked things off with a fancy dinner at Steak 954, a Stephen Starr-run steakhouse with dry-aged cuts, fresh seafood, and a glowing 15-foot jellyfish tank that sets the mood just right. For a more playful vibe, El Vez, also by Starr, serves up bright Mexican dishes and tequila cocktails with gorgeous ocean views.
During the day, we rotated between snacks at WET Bar & Grill, healthy bites at SoBe Vegan and cocktails in the Living Room, the hotel’s lounge-style heart that’s perfect for people-watching.
FUEL UP & GLOW UP
There’s no shortage of ways to recharge. We borrowed the hotel’s cruiser bikes and pedaled along the boulevard, then hit the 24/7 FIT gym for a quick workout. But my favorite way to unwind? A trip to the AWAY Spa. I booked a signature massage and a glow-up at the Glam Station, which totally reset me for a night out. (Also worth noting: this was the first full-service spa in the entire W brand. It shows.)
LOVE, CELEBRATE, OR SEAL THE DEAL
Whether you’re tying the knot, throwing a big birthday bash, or planning a corporate retreat, this hotel has space to match your vision. From oceanside terraces to the rooftop and the Mingle ballroom, every event setup is chic and photo-ready. There’s also 35,000 square feet of meeting space if you’re coming in with a team — though it hardly feels like work when you’re this close to the beach.
OFF THE PROPERTY, STILL ON THE VIBE
While the W truly has everything you need, we did venture off-property for a couple of local meals that were worth it. Emily’s Garden is a sweet, tucked-away spot for breakfast — the kind of place that feels like a hidden gem. And Mykonos (just a quick drive away) was perfect for dinner: lively, flavorful, and full of Mediterranean charm. It added just the right mix of local flavor to our stay.
W Fort Lauderdale
ADDRESS: 401 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
PHONE : (954) 414-8200
WEBSITE : marriott.com
15-foot jellyfish tank
Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
BRUNCH BY DEMARTINO
Garden State City Lifestyle Recipe of the Month
For our November Thankful Issue, we’re especially thankful for these cozy Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes—our favorite recipe of the month from Brunch by DeMartino to share around the table with family and friends.
Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes
ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ¾ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 Tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp canola oil
• Whole milk (to thin batter as needed)
directions:
Step 1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Step 2. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and canola oil. Step 3. Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined. Thin with a splash of milk if batter is too thick. Step 4. Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour batter to form pancakes, cooking until bubbles form and edges are set before flipping.
Whipped Ricotta Topping
ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh ricotta
• 1 Tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon juice
directions:
Step 1. Combine ricotta, honey, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Step 2. Whisk until smooth and fluffy.
Blueberry Compote
ingredients:
• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 3 Tbsp water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 Tbsp honey
• 2 tsp lemon juice
directions:
Step 1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup blueberries, water, sugar, honey, and lemon juice. Step 2. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Step 3. Add the remaining blueberries and continue cooking for 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened and glossy.
Serve pancakes warm with a dollop of whipped ricotta and a spoonful of blueberry compote.
For more yummy recipes like this, follow @gardenstatecitylifestyle on socials.
Gina Falco | Owner
ROAST & TOAST
A foolproof garlic–onion chicken to crown the table.
It’s what I call roast season, when colder weather and the holidays make the aroma and sizzle of a centerpiece roast feel almost primeval. As a chef, cooking a roast at home is extra appealing because restaurants keep me on single portions; chefs like to do at home what they don’t do at work.
There’s a lot to like about roasts any time of year: the deep flavor from caramelization that creates an umami-packed crust and locks in juices; the melt-inyour-mouth tenderness as connective tissue breaks down; the visual drama that turns dinner into a celebration; and leftovers that become sandwiches, tacos, salads or stews.
Bottom line: A roast is comfort food at its most luxurious.
KEYS TO A GREAT ROAST
• Bring the meat to room temperature.
• Pat it dry.
• Season generously with salt, pepper and herbs.
• Roast low and slow — 275 to 325 degrees — for tough cuts like chuck or brisket. For tender cuts, start hot at 425 degrees to sear, then lower to finish.
• Elevate the meat on a rack.
• Start checking the internal temperature 30 minutes before the recipe’s stated time — and keep checking.
• Let the meat rest before carving.
• Slice against the grain.
There’s an old saying that a great roast chicken marks a masterful chef. This easy recipe helps you claim that status.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BURKE
GARLIC–ONION CRUSTED ROAST CHICKEN
Ingredients:
• 1 3- to 4-pound chicken
• 1 large yellow onion, peeled and very thinly sliced
• 6 heads garlic, cloves separated, loose skin removed, skins left on
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
1. Heat oven to 220 degrees. Lightly oil a sheet pan, spread onion slices in an even layer and roast until golden, crisp and dry. Cool, then chop into fine crumbs by hand (not in a processor).
2. While onions roast, toss garlic cloves with olive oil. Spread on a pan in a single layer and roast at 375 degrees until very tender, about 30 minutes. Cool, then squeeze the pulp from skins into a food processor and purée.
3. Pat chicken dry; season well with salt and pepper. Spread a thick layer of garlic purée over the chicken, then coat with onion crumbs.
4. Place chicken in the center of a roasting pan. Roast at 325 degrees until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees, about 1 hour (start checking early).
5. Let rest, uncovered, at least 15 minutes before carving.
Serving note: A quick sautéed mushroom medley pairs beautifully with the rich chicken. Wipe mushrooms with a damp cloth rather than washing — they absorb water and won’t brown. Browning equals flavor.
About Chef David Burke
New Jersey–born chef and restaurateur David Burke has spent decades championing playful, precision-driven American cooking. Known for elevating comfort classics with technique and showmanship, he brings the same rigor to a Sunday roast as to a tasting menu. Burke’s restaurants span New Jersey and beyond, and he remains a visible mentor in local kitchens and culinary classrooms.
David Burke
at the Barefoot COUNTRY MUSIC FEST
Garden State City Lifestyle was grateful to have a front-row view on Wildwood’s iconic beach at the 2025 Barefoot Country Music Fest — and it did not disappoint. Held June 19–22, the four-day celebration drew thousands of fans from across the nation to sing, dance and soak in coastal vibes.
Headliners included Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Rascal Flatts and Jordan Davis, with more than 40 additional artists lighting up
multiple stages. From chart-topping anthems to beachside ballads, the lineup delivered nonstop entertainment and crowd-pleasing singalongs. Wilson brought powerhouse vocals and glittering style, Jelly Roll captivated with authenticity, and Rascal Flatts had fans of all ages belting every chorus.
The setting did half the magic. With the Atlantic as a backdrop and a steady ocean breeze, sets rolled from golden-hour glow into neon-lit nights. Fans in cowboy boots and flip-flops mingled along the boardwalk between shows, grabbing lemonades and soft-serve before hustling back for the next guitar solo.
Between performances, festivalgoers explored fan zones, sponsor activations and shaded lounges, while vendors served everything from barbecue to boardwalk classics. Beach-friendly production kept lines moving and sightlines clear; even from farther back, big screens and stacked sound kept the action close.
Standout moments included surprise guest appearances, acoustic breaks that quieted the beach to a hush and late-night closers that turned the shoreline into one swaying chorus. By Sunday, Wildwood felt like the unofficial capital of country music — and we left sunkissed and grateful for the view.
Whether you’re a country die-hard or just in it for summer vibes, Barefoot Country Music Fest is a must. Mark your calendar for next year; once you’ve danced barefoot in the sand to your favorite hits, you’ll count down until the next one.
If you go next year: Book lodging early, pack a brimmed hat and reef-safe sunscreen, bring a light layer for ocean breezes after sunset and consider a small beach blanket for between sets. Comfortable footwear is a win — boots optional, flip-flops welcome.
Learn more at barefootcountrymusicfest.com
PANTRY WITH A Purpose
With grocery prices continuing to soar and economic strain persisting across many communities, the Interfaith Food Pantry of the Oranges (IFPO) has become a lifeline for thousands of food-insecure residents in Orange, East Orange and West Orange.
The volunteer-powered nonprofit distributes food and essential supplies every Wednesday morning, regularly serving more than 700 households per distribution. In 2024 alone, the pantry experienced over 27,600 client visits — a staggering 130% increase from pre-pandemic levels in 2019, when it served roughly 12,000 visitors.
Interfaith Food Pantry of the Oranges Sees Record Need as It Continues Serving With Dignity
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY INTERFAITH FOOD PANTRY OF THE ORANGES (IFPO)
Located at 357 S. Jefferson St. in Orange, IFPO offers weekly walk-up food distributions from 9 a.m. to noon, excluding the first Wednesday of each month. First-time visitors are welcomed with a bag of nonperishable groceries, and no appointments or referrals are needed.
“Our mission is simple but urgent — to meet essential human needs with dignity and respect,” the organization states. “We strive to create a welcoming space where no one feels judged or overlooked.”
The pantry also provides diapers, hygiene items and other necessities — with more than 432,500 diapers distributed last year alone. Additionally, 375,000 pounds of fresh produce were shared with local families, thanks in part to partnerships with local farms and supporters known as “Produce Partners.”
A major part of IFPO’s impact stems from its collaboration with the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. In March 2025, this partnership helped deliver more than 8,000 pounds of shelf-stable food and produce boxes directly to Orange and East Orange residents.
As demand grows, IFPO continues to rely heavily on its volunteer base and local supporters. The pantry encourages new volunteers and offers official IFPO merchandise as a way to show support and raise awareness.
Residents in need of food assistance at other times, or those looking for help with additional services, can visit the IFPO website or social media channels for more resources.
H O P E
with YOU
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
ARTICLE BY NICHOLAS XAVIER HALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION OF NEW JERSEY
HOW THE HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION OF NJ TURNS EQUITY INTO IMPACT ACROSS GREATER METROWEST.
CARE IN ACTION
Founded in 1996, the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey has been fervently dedicated to reducing the disparities found in access to quality healthcare for vulnerable populations in the greater Newark and Jewish community of the Greater MetroWest (this includes Newark, Millburn, South Orange, East Orange, West Orange, Elizabeth, Bloomfield,
Under the umbrella of their Pledge for Action, the Healthcare Foundation of NJ has six main focuses for their work. These include supporting hospitals, general medical care, behavioral health, workforce training, public health and several other areas. Amongst numerous other achievements, their hospital work includes an incredible accomplishment
“THEIR WORK AIMS TO INFUSE A MORE COMPASSIONATE AND HUMANISTIC
APPROACH TO OUR HEALTHCARE SYSTEM.”
Maplewood, Irvington, Belleville, Union, Livingston, Morristown, Hillside and Montclair). Their work also aims to infuse a more compassionate and humanistic approach to our healthcare system through their pledge for action which includes: Investing in Knowledge, Community-Led Guidance, Equity-Centric Grantmaking and Collaborative Innovation.
in 2022 which involved HFNJ’s trustees approving a $1 Million grant to the Overlook Medical Center to support the renovation of the hospital’s Frank & Mimi Walsh Maternity Center. The work, completed in 2023, included a new welcome area, triage suite as well as two new operating rooms for C-Section and 13 state of the art recovery rooms in the Mother-Baby postpartum unit.
This work supports a 24/7 maternity department that delivers about seven babies every day of the year!
Within these pillars, the HFNJ’s work has also made strides to make healthcare truly accessible to all by meeting people where they need. This work includes efforts at public parks and fitness opportunities to provide life saving health education. Some of their recent work includes providing two grants to the Branchbrook Park Alliance in 2022 and 2023, which both support wellness activities at the park. The response to this work was immediate with the community showing up in droves. In the first year, 1,100 individuals participated in various programs including yoga, park walks as well as Zumba and Soul Line Dancing classes. These grants have also empowered the Alliance to have the ability to sponsor community health fairs which provide various health screenings for things like A1C, blood pressure and BMI.
Overall, the organization’s accomplishment highlights include 2,745 total grants awarded, 545 of which totaled over $30 million. $30 million was also given to strengthen Newark’s Beth Israel Medical Center across 185 grant projects. As a result of all of their incredible work, The Healthcare Foundation of NJ has received 326 ‘Humanism in Medicine’ awards which acknowledge local health providers who exemplify empathy and compassion. The HFNJ continues to grow and make incredible strides with bridging the gap for accessibility with the organization providing $9,582,981 in total awards as indicated in their 2024 Impact Report.
“WE’RE EXCITED TO SEE HOW THE HFNJ CONTINUES TO MAKE POSITIVE IMPACTS ON THE COMMUNITY.”
Most recently, JESPY, a nonprofit which serves adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities was a recipient of a $281,040 grant from the HFNJ which has allowed them to establish a dedicated health and wellness suite inside the JESPY Center on its Cooperman Family Campus. The organization also awarded $1,070,865 in grants to ten New Jersey nonprofits including the Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy and Greater MetroWest Day School Initiative Mental Health Partnership amongst others. Looking ahead, we’re excited to see how the HFNJ continues to make positive impacts on the community.
It’s clear that the Healthcare Foundation of NJ is making a measurable and life changing difference for many residents within New Jersey through its consistent philanthropic efforts over the years. It’s incredibly empowering to see how much our local community benefits when we take a moment and support those in need. To find out how you can support the foundation and keep up with their latest efforts, you can visit hfnj.org
Layers for Every Exit
Versatile Luxury Looks for a New Jersey Thanksgiving
As we transition from summer to autumn and the chill sets in, attention turns to the holidays and their inevitable challenges: “What time should I arrive?” “What dish should I bring?” and perhaps the most daunting — “What do I wear?”
ARTICLE BY NICHOLAS
XAVIER HALL
Top Right: Silk crêpe de Chine dress
Mid Left: Lucia Leopard-Print Wrap Jumpsuit
Right: Delia Low-Heeled Ballet Pumps
Thanksgiving often kicks off the season of gatherings, and while we can’t necessarily answer every holiday question, we can cover the fashion front. Whether you’re attending a formal supper, a Friendsgiving potluck or a laid-back sofa-side feast, we’ve pulled together a style guide that guarantees you’ll look the part while staying comfortable.
Comfort is always a factor when getting dressed, but it’s especially important for a holiday centered around food. The key to winning Thanksgiving style is finding looks that blend elegance, versatility and function — outfits that transition easily from feast to fireside. Unlike Christmas or New Year’s Eve, Thanksgiving rarely calls for full glam, which gives you more room to play with colors, textures and silhouettes.
To ease the stress of getting dressed, we’ve outlined themes for inspiration. Many of these elevated looks can be pulled together from your own closet, proving you don’t need to splurge on a new wardrobe. And whether your style skews polished or cozy, the best accessory is still a second helping.
SEASONAL SHADES
Why it works: Neutral and earthy tones mirror the fall landscape and give off a cozy yet polished vibe. Easy to layer, mix and accessorize, these shades work for both daytime and evening gatherings.
Styling tip: Pair neutrals with gold jewelry or a textured belt for warmth.
• Minimalist option: Delia Low-Heeled Ballet Pumps ($395); Silk crêpe de Chine dress ($1,655)
• Monochromatic option: Women’s Smashed Satin
Asymmetric Top in Oyster ($1,090); High-Waisted Cinched Trouser in Ivory ($1,050); Love 85mm Glitter Tulle Pumps ($850)
WHEN IN DOUBT, GO DARK
Why it works: Black is timeless, slimming and endlessly adaptable. It gives you a chic base to play with bold shoes, jewelry or a statement lip, all without feeling overdressed for a family-centric holiday.
Styling tip: Break up the monochrome with a bold lip, animal-print shoe or statement bag. Add an oversized blazer if you want more formality.
• Balanced look: Signature Jazz Dress ($475); Gianvito Rossi Leopard-Print Suede Pumps ($875)
• Edgy look: Flynn Cashmere Sweater ($325); Livvy Leather Trouser ($1,450); Penelope Mule in Leather ($1,270)
ONE & DONE
Why it works: A jumpsuit is the ultimate “chic with zero effort” look. Comfortable for a long meal yet structured enough to feel elevated, it’s an easy swap for a dress.
Styling tip: Cinch the waist with a sleek belt for definition, or add a cropped cardigan for coziness.
• Sleek option: Enara Halter Flare Jumpsuit ($1,990); Vendome Slingback Pumps in Glazed Leather ($1,100)
• Statement option: Lucia Leopard-Print Wrap Jumpsuit ($698); Coach Tea Rose Pump ($195)
INSTANT POLISH
Why it works: Dresses are a no-brainer. Whether midi or sheath, they make a statement and transition seamlessly from cocktails to pumpkin pie.
Styling tip: Try sheer tights if the temperature drops, and swap stilettos for knee-high boots to give your feet a break.
• Classic with a twist: Memento Picnic Midi Dress ($1,880); Maysale Brown Suede Buckle Mules ($915)
• Traditional: Hypnotic Twist Sheath Dress ($1,550); Stuart Power Boot 75 ($850)
FROM FEAST TO FIRESIDE
Why it works: After a big meal, forgiving yet chic pieces keep you comfortable. Luxe knits and cashmere feel like loungewear but look intentional.
Styling tip: Slip into stylish socks, claim your spot on the couch and let elastic waistbands do the work.
• Guest In Residence Pullover Hoodie ($595); Guest In Residence Everywear Pant ($545)
Whether you’re in North Jersey or down the Shore, these Thanksgiving-friendly looks bring New Jersey versatility to holiday dressing. From neutral layers to luxe loungewear, you’ll find an option that’s as comfortable as it is polished — perfect for savoring the season in style.
For more style tips like this follow us @gardenstatecitylifestyle .
uniqueGIFTING
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
ADVICE EDITORIAL: ALTERNATE GIFT IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON
The holiday season is officially on, and gifting is top of mind. We’re all used to scrolling online, browsing the malls or hitting the local boutiques, but sometimes it’s fun and unexpected to switch it up. If looking to surprise and delight recipients this year and to bring a new tradition to the season, offbeat gifting can be a great way to turn a new leaf on stale routines.
1) PRE-HOLIDAY SURPRISE.
For those traveling, send gifts early, such as cheeses, fruit or pies.
2) FUTURE FUN.
Browse winter or spring events; snag tickets to enjoy with recipients.
3) GENEROSITY.
Donations make heartfelt, thoughtful ideas.
4) TRAVEL.
Gift a loved one with a trip.
5) TIME.
Is a recipient busy, overloaded and overworked? Treat them to a whole home cleaning before or after the holiday.
6) LOVE OF LEARNING.
If a loved one is planning international travel, grab them a gift card for a language learning app.
7) THOUGHTFUL MESSAGES.
Ask friends and family to record loving messages on cellphones; combine recordings using a video app for meaningful holiday greeting.
8) BON APPÉTIT.
Sign up special someone for cooking class regarding favorite cuisine, or cuisine they struggle to make.
9) RECIPE BOOK.
Gather traditional family recipes and create printed books for guests as priceless keepsakes.
NOVEMBER 2ND
Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library — Luna Stage
555 Valley Rd., West Orange | 3:00 PM
Luna Stage’s “Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library” concludes its run with a matinee exploring courage, history and ideas in an intimate setting. For more information, go to lunastage.org/mrs-stern-wanders-the-prussian-state-library
NOVEMBER 2ND
Trivium — The Wellmont Theater
5 Seymour St., Montclair | 7:30 PM
Metal heavyweights bring their Ascend Above the Ashes Tour to Montclair for a high-octane night. For more information, go to wellmonttheater.com
NOVEMBER 4TH
An Evening with Phil Rosenthal — The Wellmont Theater
5 Seymour St., Montclair | 7:30 PM
The creator and host of “Somebody Feed Phil” shares stories, laughs and food-centric reflections in a live conversation. For more information, go to livenation.com/venue/the-wellmont-theater-events.
NOVEMBER 6TH
Montclair Art Museum — Free First Thursday
3 S. Mountain Ave., Montclair | 5:00 PM
Enjoy free evening admission with galleries, activities and a community vibe to kick off the month. It’s a relaxed way to sample exhibitions without the rush. For more information, go to montclairartmuseum.org.
NOVEMBER 20TH
Ladies of Laughter — SOPAC
One SOPAC Way, South Orange, | 7:30 PM
A powerhouse night of stand-up featuring top women in comedy—smart, sharp and very funny. For more information, go to sopacnow.org/ event/ladies-of-laughter-2025
NOVEMBER 23RD
Corinna Sowers Adler: Something Beautiful — SOPAC (Cabaret in the Loft)
One SOPAC Way, South Orange | 7:30 PM
An uplifting, intimate cabaret from a Broadway favorite—classic songbook meets contemporary gems. For more information, go to sopacnow.org/events/citl-nov-2025
Want to be featured?
