Summer of Sam's

August 12, 2016 Samantha Angelo

I'm not going to pretend, for myself Summer Friday is definitely a newer concept. In the past Summer Friday has meant a very early morning practicing in formation (better known as a Phase II) followed by a late night spent performing in the prestigious (Friday Night) Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington DC.

My last three summers I've joined the civilian world in rejoicing the unique pleasure of Summer Friday, which has a totally new meaning now. My marching boots . . . traded in for strappy pumps, sandals, thongs and mules as I buzz around lower Manhattan from meetings to street style shoots, followed by lunch at my favorite neighborhood spots like Sant Ambroeus, Butcher's Daughter (my winner for best avocado toast!) and The Smile.

Yet one thing that’s remained the same are my Sam Edelman sandals. When I was growing up and into my teens, I wore the signature flat Edelman (cushy sole) sandal and now in my 30’s I’m revisiting the brand, reminded of what drew me to Edelman in the first place.

Continuing with my ideal Summer Friday, I'll walk through Soho to Sullivan St. and swing by the family owned and run, Local Cafe. I love the little outdoor oasis built out in a parking spot, complete with tall green grasses. For a moment you might not remember you're in the city—until a car horn blows and an insane man pretending to be secret service accosts you—one of the reasons I love New York!

From there I'm off to the Whitney Museum of Art in the Meatpacking district for some midday inspiration followed by an early snack at Santina (wearing the Santina Wedge, of course!) —I always order the Avocado Trapanese Tuscan Chickpea Pancake and maybe a refreshing Aperol Spritz.[I've learned] In New York it's seen as an offense, a sin (!) to work late on a Summer Friday, having only a fleeting handful of days spent dining al fresco, sipping ice cold beverages perched on rooftops and strolling aimlessly amid steamy summer evenings.

Happy Summer Friday ;-)