Rules Of Gotham

Photo by Alexander Korte for Unsplash

Wet pavement, the flicker of the neon lights from across the street, and the damp chill of a shadowy place where not everything is as it seems—Gotham is New York City at its grittiest hour. 

Say what you want about New Yorkers, but no one has perfected the art of going out on a random Tuesday night like they have. The term in reference to New York City goes back over 200 years, with the nickname being used by Washington Irving in the early 19th century, to describe a city filled with inhabitants who are both wise and foolish to insist on living in a place so notorious for fast living and shady deals. And if you were to go out on the town at night for a thrill, no doubt, there's gonna be some rules you and your friends should keep in mind. These are the ones our editors found to be particularly unexpected. So, read on if you're ready for an autumn night you'll remember when you get tired of all things boring and mundane.

Oh, and remember that nothing here is sponsored, just a few recommendations from a friend of a friend.

Lots of Love,

L&F 

1. Know Your Beauty History

The minute you step out into a New York night, you're going to be surrounded by history, so why not pay homage with a pop of color. Swatched from genuine vintage lipsticks, A Salute in Red from Starlight Cosmetics goes on just as smooth as it would have in the 1940s. Wearing a true victory red will have you feeling just as iconic as the shade itself. It's bright, it's bold, and quite frankly, it knows that it's the star of the show, so let it lend you some of that attitude. Semi-matte and creamy, you'll find that even the sweet vanilla scent is a little seductive. The case alone lets you know that this lipstick is meant to be shown off, applied, smudged on the cheek of a lover, then reapplied again. They'll be thinking about it all day. Maybe those pinup girls were onto something...

Starlight Cosmetics

A Salute in Red — 1940s, $33.00

Photos courtesy of Starlight Cosmetics

2. A Sophisticated Apéritif Is Always Necessary

If you know us, then you know we love a fancy beverage, and a bit of sparkle is just what you need. There's never a dull moment in Gotham, and your pre-dinner drinks shouldn't be any different. Surprisingly not too sweet, Moonglade Craft Soda's Watermelon Ginger Beer leans a little less on the watermelon and a little more on the herbal. The flavors are fresh, sophisticated, and well suited for the evening—all year round. The ginger and lemon here are warming and crisp without any of the bite. It's pink and bright in appearance, but mellow in taste. Our recommendation for serving? Chill your coups then add some basil as garnish, and really embrace those garden flavors, or add some edible glitter to make your mocktail hour shimmer. Your night's off to a great start.

Moonglade Craft Soda

Watermelon Ginger Beer—12 Pack, $34.99

Photo courtesy of Moonglade Craft Soda

3. Bold Fragrances Get Rewarded

Absolutely sexy. Without even trying hard, Midnight Toker by Heretic Parfum can convert even the staunchest creamy floral supporters over to the dark side. If you're listening (or sniffing, I guess?), Midnight Toker will tell you the story of an ill fated pair of lovers, and a thrilling relationship that's going nowhere, fast. It first stuns you with the dangerous scent of spiced blonde tobacco, intriguing but risky, just like those first few shared glances. Then, as it quickly settles in, the sense of danger begins to fade, but never completely leaves. Rather, the tobacco takes a seat in the background, as if waiting to see what kind of devilment you'll get up to as the night barrels toward a crescendo. All that's left as the sun begins to rise, is a sweet memory that chooses to be known only by those most intimate to you, singed vanilla. It holds close to the skin like a secret, intoxicating and sensual. 

If you want to give your night a little excitement, spritz this once or twice on the skin, and see just where the evening takes you. 

Heretic Parfum

Midnight Toker —50ml, $165.00

Photo courtesy of Heretic Parfum

4. Alt Fashion Is The Norm

You never know who you might meet when you go out. Too shy to strike up a conversation? Let your shirt do all the heavy lifting. The Creature Feature Tee from Future Monsters is effortlessly cool and nothing can open up a discussion quite like horror cinema history. Who knows, you might even meet a kindred spirit, with the same exact brand of weirdness as you. Future Monsters boasts an extensive collection of hand printed, hand distressed tees with a mind for accessible alternative fashion. It's all designed and printed in-house by people who love the culture, and their authenticity definitely shows up in their work. It's 100% cotton and extremely soft from heavy washing. Layer under a leather jacket to go all out with that edgy feeling, or pair with a fuzzy cardigan for maximum contrast. Your conversation partner will spend more time being intrigued by your aura than noticing the spinach in your teeth from that garden salad you had for lunch. We promise. 

Future Monsters

Creature Feature Tee, $44.99

https://www.futuremonsters.com/products/creature-feature-1#full-product-info

Photo courtesy of Future Monsters