Biting the Apple

West Village Model Karen Rempel caresses her Candy Apple Red high heels

On my first trip to New York, in 2014, I ditched the “Search Inside Yourself” course that brought me to the city and headed over to the Hudson River to search outside myself. The first fascinating wonder I saw was Stephan Weiss’s bronze sculpture, “The Apple.” Soon after, I spotted the Statue of Liberty in the distance and wept. I was finally here!

West Village model Karen Rempel tempts with forbidden fruit at “The Apple” sculpture in Hudson River Park.
West Village model Karen Rempel tempts with forbidden fruit at “The Apple” sculpture in Hudson River Park. Photo by Philip Maier.

Although not as world-famous as Lady Liberty, The Apple symbolizes New York in a very personal way, with a personal story. New York artist Stephan Weiss was married to our beloved fashion designer Donna Karan. When he died in 2001, Karan used Weiss’s plans and completed the sculpture. It is a symbol of their love as well as of all New Yorkers’ love for the city.

You’ll find the Hudson River Park’s Apple Garden just north of Christopher Street. If you look closely, you’ll notice the bench is supported by apple cores! It’s one of the sweetest spots along the boardwalk, set back slightly from the main thoroughfare. A great place to watch the river and people flow by.

This navy satin number looks like someone took a bite out of it! I found this treasure at Rent the Runway on West 15th Street. They have changed their business model and were selling off the inventory at the store. I was looking for a little navy dress and this was the only one in the store, and happened to be my size. Destiny! It has become my summer favorite. P.S. You can also find great deals on their website and buy “gently appreciated” items online.

This article first appeared in the Village Sun.

Style Notes

  • Navy satin dress with scalloped bodice. Slate and Willow at Rent the Runway. W. 15th Street.
  • Candy apple red Mimosa pumps. Browns at The Bay, Vancouver BC.
  • Sapphire drop earrings.  Whole Bead Show NYCHotel Pennsylvania.
  • Metallic red beaded clutch. Goodwill. Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC.
  • New York Apple lipstick. MAC.

8 thoughts on “Biting the Apple

  1. A very touching story, Karen. Once you take a bite out of the Big Apple, like millions of others, you fall hopelessly and wonderfully in love. It is a city like no other. Speaking of bites, the beautiful navy dress promises an exciting new “Catch and Release” chapter by the glamorous seductress.

  2. Hey Karen,
    Yes, what a sharp eye! I have walked around that area of Christopher St so many times–but somehow never noticed the “Apple Garden”, apple core bench supports–or “The Apple” sculpture! (some of us are just too day-dreamy!) I will be sure to notice now.
    And btw, love your “ruby slippers”, which I did notice! (Click them together 3 times and say “There’s no place like NYC!” : )

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