Good taste is relative. While pink mesh zip-ups and the power suit/white tennis shoe combo might seem like a good idea to some, I think it’s safe to say that most people (including Glamour) beg to differ. Other trends that seem outrageously offensive at first (super skinny jeans, for example) can eventually break into the mainstream and rise to “season staple” status. The undying, collective affection for Crocs and Uggs, however, is a class all its own. (Trend forecasters are still scratching their heads.)
Three qualities that are always in good taste? Beautiful fabrics, spot-on tailoring, and accessories that make an ensemble one’s own. Taking things a bit more literally, good taste might also be defined by quality ingredients, simple execution, and a perfectly paired glass of wine. In this vein, I was quite excited to attend the launch of Gilt Taste at Cedar Lake last week, the latest no-membership-required concept from the savvy ladies behind the cult e-commerce darling, Gilt Groupe. At the helm of the culinary spin-off is Editorial Advisor and all-around lovely lady Ruth Reichl, whom many know as a former New York Times restaurant critic and, more recently, the last editor-in-chief of the now shuttered Gourmet magazine.
Ruth Reichl, Tyra Banks, and Susan Lyne at the launch party for Gilt Taste.
“I believe that Gilt Taste is the next generation of food media, giving you everything you love about food in one place: ideas, inspiration, recipes, stories and the ability to buy the best,” said Reichl. “It’s going to be the food magazine of your dreams.” She spoke with equal enthusiasm at the launch event, explaining that the website represents Gilt Groupe’s first integration of content and commerce. Gilt Taste will offer access to products and ingredients previously only available to chefs, as well as items designed exclusively for site.
Eric Ripert, Ken Friedman and Laurent Gras attend the Gilt Taste launch party.
Just because this party brought out the city’s most notorious foodies didn’t mean the crowd wasn’t dressed to the nines. I spotted Hamptons cover star Eric Ripert, looking dapper as ever, as well as Ken Freidman, Laurent Gras, and TFS fave, Tyra Banks. As I walked away with a gift bag full of Gilt Food-endorsed truffle oils, parmesan cheeses, and gourmet chocolates, I decided my own definition of good taste included both the well-dressed…and well-fed.
Xoxo,
Julie
images: ©JIMI CELESTE/PatrickMcMullan.com
