Tastemaker Julia Engel hits NYC to celebrate the launch of her new collection of cozy winter coats.
By Tessa Trudeau
Last year, Julia Engel turned her blog into a brand with Gal Meets Glam Collection, a line of romantic, feminine dresses that perfectly embodies the style she's famous for. Now the Charleston-based entrepreneur is packing her bags for New York City to unveil her newest offering—gorgeous, eye-catching coats—available at Nordstrom.
While it's far from her first time in the Big Apple, this visit still carries significance. "I'm so excited as this will be my first trip post-baby and my daughter Clementine's first trip ever!" she says. "New York is one of my favorite destinations, especially in the fall as the weather starts to get cooler. We can't wait to walk around the city with our daughter," she says of her and husband, Thomas.
Engel takes us through her trip's itinerary, which mixes business and pleasure, shares some clever packing tips and, more importantly, dishes on what she'll be wearing with her brand-new coats.
What's on your agenda?
I'll be working on the Gal Meets Glam Collection coat launch, which is our brand's first foray into the outerwear category, and getting everything in order for the dinner we'll be throwing at Lotte New York Palace to preview our holiday dresses. We will also be hosting a few opportunities for press to come view the new coats, and I am so thrilled to be able to be there in person when everyone sees the collection for the first time!
Where are your favorite places to eat there?
We love Via Carota, Waverly Inn, The Polo Bar, Locanda Verde, Rosemary's, The Butcher's Daughter, Black Seed Bagels and ABC Kitchen.
What do you plan to pack?
I have an affinity for feminine dresses, so our Gal Meets Glam Collection dresses and jumpsuits are a staple in my travel wardrobe. They take me from daytime meetings to evening events or dinner with friends and are incredibly comfortable when I'm on the go.
Do you have any packing tips?
Packing under the 50-pound limit is not exactly my strong suit, but I've learned a few tricks that help me avoid surprise luggage fees. Taking into account how much space each item is going to take up versus its weight keeps me on target almost every time. Items that are small and heavy are perfect to be packed in your carry-on, giving you that extra couple pounds of space [in your checked bag].
What's your philosophy for packing bulky winter coats?
By carrying on your largest coat, you'd be surprised at how much space you can save. Typically, I aim to pack two jackets so I have a more casual option and a dressier option and can create several unique looks during my trip.
Faux-Fur Collar and Cuffs Short Coat
$360
Scalloped-Edge Coat
$380
Plaid Toggle-Closure Coat
$450
Belted Wool Coat
$340
How are you styling your coats for fall?
When I created these coats, I always kept in mind that these are pieces our customers may reach for every day. I wanted them to be versatile so they could be styled with many different outfits and add a polished touch to any look. I personally love to wear these coats with a great pair of jeans and feminine flats or with one of our Gal Meets Glam Collection fall dress styles. The dresses have been designed with this similar versatility in mind and can be paired very easily.
What kind of shoes do you favor for NYC?
Heeled boots, basic flats and easy, everyday loafers. Of course, one can never have too many shoes, so I have variations of each style, but these are the three I rotate between the most. Each of these styles creates a seamless, sophisticated look and are the most versatile, so you can easily transition from the office to cocktail hour.