In Good Taste: Dana Avidan Cohn

Dana Avidan Cohn

Today, we're launching the first edition of In Good Taste, an ongoing series from The Get designed to spotlight men and women whose style and taste can be genuinely trusted.

In Good Taste features thoughtfully chosen things that our tastemakers rely on, return to, and use regularly—the items that have earned an authentic place in their lives, cabinets and closets.

A New York–based creative director, editorial strategist, and on-air fashion authority, Dana Avidan Cohn currently serves as Director of Editorial Content at Macy's, overseeing brand messaging and product curation across media channels. Previously, she held senior editorial positions at InStyle, Self, POPSUGAR, and Editorialist.

For our first edition of In Good Taste, we asked Dana to share the one item she genuinely recommends and uses constantly.

DeMellier

Dana’s Get: DeMellier New York Tote

"I was looking for a chic work bag that could fit my laptop and easily mix into my wardrobe. I wanted something elevated in textured leather or suede with an interesting shape."

Dana has only owned the bag for a few months, but it has already become a constant companion. Spacious enough for work essentials while remaining polished and refined, the tote strikes the balance between practicality and style that so many bags promise but rarely deliver.

"It's beautifully made and holds everything."

While it currently serves as her everyday work bag, it's also become a favorite travel companion thanks to its generous size and understated sophistication.

Marni Sandals

Quickfire

Most-used item in your closet: Chunky sandals (Marni or Proenza Schouler x Birkenstock)

Favorite purchase under $100: Izipizi sunglasses

Favorite splurge: Toteme T-Lock textured leather shoulder bag

Must-have travel item: Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream

Brands you consistently trust: Toteme, Agolde,The Row

Favorite beauty product: Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid

One thing you'll never stop buying: A white T-shirt

Dante

Dana's NYC Black Book

Self-care: Sage + Sound lymphatic massage

Bar: Dante

Coffee/Matcha: Blank Street

Weekend escape: Inness

Favorite hotel: The Crosby

Shop local: The Strand

Favorite restaurants: Cafe Cluny and Cafe Mulberry

Love browsing: Aberizk in Nolita

Simply irresistible: Brunch at Cafe Gitane

Costume Art Exhibition at The Met

On Her Radar

Scent: Le Labo Santal 33

One to Watch: Attersee

Dream Getaways: Puglia, Naxos, and San Sebastián

Don't Miss: Costume Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Follow Dana at @danaavidancohn for more thoughtful style inspiration.

Thank you, Dana!

The Sneaker Worth Buying

Since its debut in 1979, Vans has embodied the laid-back spirit of Southern California. What began as a skateboarding staple has evolved into a true cultural icon—worn by everyone from musicians and artists to fashion editors and stylists.

I bought my first pair of Vans while living in Santa Barbara. I was compelled to purchase a pair after seeing versions of their icons such as the Classic Slip-On , Old Skool, Authentic, and Sk8-Hi, on literally everyone. The slip-on is perfect for me — no laces, no fuss—just slip them on and head out the door. It's also an ideal travel shoe thanks to its easy packability and sartorial versatility. They have lasted me for years and have gotten so much wear!

For Cali-York Knicks fans, Vans has also introduced a fresh take on its signature slip-on checkerboard pattern inspired by the city's beloved basketball team. The blue-and-orange colorway reimagines the iconic print in the Knicks' signature colors. Priced at $60, it's available at select Vans stores in New York and New Jersey, as well as online.

Whether you prefer timeless white, the classic checkerboard, or the platform version, wearing a pair of Vans never goes out of style.

Gift Gets for Men: The Things He'll Actually Use

While Father's Day may be around the corner, we're of the opinion that a great gift is a great gift, regardless of the occasion. Whether you're shopping for a father, husband, partner, brother, friend, or father-in-law, the best presents aren't necessarily the most extravagant—they're the ones that become part of his everyday life.

From wardrobe icons to grooming upgrades and travel essentials, these are the Gift Gets we're recommending this season.

For the Grooming Enthusiast: Proraso Shave Cream & Brush

There's a reason Italian barbers have trusted Proraso for generations. The eucalyptus-infused shaving cream creates a rich lather while menthol leaves skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. Paired with the brand's classic shaving brush, it transforms an everyday routine into something a little more luxurious.

Nécessaire Body Wash and Lotion

Minimalist packaging meets maximum performance. The Body Wash Eucalyptus is a rich, non-drying cleanser designed to soften and nourish skin while you shower. The lotion is fragrance-free and packed with niacinamide, vitamins, and peptides. This is the type of skincare upgrade he'll appreciate every day—even if he'd never think to buy it for himself.

Salt & Stone Best Sellers Set

If he's ready to retire the drugstore body wash, consider this elevated grooming set. Known for sophisticated scents and clean formulations, Salt & Stone products feel equal parts practical and indulgent.

For the Frequent Flyer: Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC

For the guy who never checks a bag, this may be the ultimate travel companion. Sized to fit beneath an airline seat while packing like a suitcase, it converts seamlessly from backpack to duffel and handles everything from weekend getaways to business trips with ease.

For the Wine Connoisseur: Coravin Timeless Three+

Perfect for the wine lover who enjoys a glass without committing to the entire bottle. Coravin's innovative preservation system allows you to pour wine without removing the cork, keeping the remaining bottle fresh for weeks—or even months.

For the Sports Fan: Personalized Sports Ball

Sometimes the simplest gifts are the most memorable. A customized basketball, football, baseball, or soccer ball adds a personal touch while still being entirely practical. Ideal for athletes, coaches, dads, or anyone who never misses a game. Click here to view options.

For the Man Who Appreciates Great Style

Carhartt Chore Coat

The workwear trend may come and go, but a chore coat never goes out of style. Rugged, functional, and endlessly versatile, it layers effortlessly over everything from a T-shirt to a sweater. My favorite is the Warren but there are other styles here.

Alpha Industries MA-1 Bomber Jacket

Originally designed for military pilots, the MA-1 remains one of menswear's most enduring outerwear pieces. Lightweight, practical, and undeniably cool, it's the kind of jacket that works at virtually any age.

FULLCOUNT Type 2 Denim Jacket

For the denim enthusiast, few brands command more respect than FULLCOUNT. Crafted in Osaka using traditional techniques and premium selvedge denim, this is the type of jacket that only gets better with age, developing a patina that's uniquely its own.

The Everyday Uniform

J.Crew Washed Piqué Polo

The polo shirt has quietly reclaimed its place as a menswear staple. J.Crew's washed piqué version strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and polished, making it equally suited for weekends, casual offices, and summer dinners.

Buck Mason Seafarer Cotton Rib Crew

A great sweater is one of the hardest-working pieces in any wardrobe. Buck Mason's textured cotton knit offers year-round versatility and the kind of understated style that never feels trendy.

The Perfect White T-Shirt

Every man needs one—or several.

For those who appreciate heritage craftsmanship, Whitesville's tubular tees have earned cult status among menswear enthusiasts. Looking for value without sacrificing quality? Uniqlo continues to produce some of the best basics available. And for an elevated everyday option, Buck Mason remains a perennial favorite.

The Footwear classics

Birkenstock Boston or Arizona

Few shoes have achieved icon status quite like Birkenstock. The Boston clog has become a year-round favorite thanks to its soft suede upper and unmatched comfort, while the Arizona remains one of the most versatile sandals ever made. Either option is a gift he'll reach for constantly.

Adidas Stan Smith

There may be no sneaker more versatile than the Stan Smith. Clean, classic, and endlessly wearable, it pairs as easily with tailored trousers as it does with denim or shorts. If he's only going to own one white sneaker, this is a strong contender.

Clarks Desert Boot

Few shoes have stood the test of time quite like the Desert Boot. Originally inspired by the crepe-soled boots worn by off-duty British officers in Cairo, its design has remained largely unchanged for decades—and for good reason. Comfortable, versatile, and effortlessly stylish, it's a true menswear classic.

The Kaftans Worth Buying

There are few pieces in a wardrobe that feel as effortless and as elevated as a beautiful kaftan (also spelled “caftan.”) Comfortable, chic, and versatile, a great kaftan is the epitome of easy dressing.

You can throw it over your swimsuit with flip-flops and sunglasses for a relaxed beachside lunch, or swap in leather sandals, gold hoops, and a clutch for an easy dinner look. The beauty of the kaftan lies in its ability to move seamlessly through the day, adapting to every occasion without ever feeling overdone. And they are SO comfortable to wear!

I have long embraced the art of wearing kaftans as dresses, transforming what was once considered a poolside cover-up into a sophisticated day-to-night staple. Whether worn for a steamy day in the city, a holiday getaway, or an evening gathering, the kaftan offers a refined take on relaxed dressing. Bonus points if the kaftan has pockets. 

Shop my gets below!

Melissa Odabash | H&M | English Factory | La Veste | Tuckernuck | Sloan | Pucci | Zara | Emporio Sirenuse

The Sunglasses Worth Buying

Sunglasses are one of the easiest ways to transform an outfit. Beyond the obvious practicality, the right pair can instantly add personality to any look.

From iconic aviators to sleek 90’s silhouettes, these are the sunglasses I reach for and also think are worth owning.

• Oliver Goldsmith Manhattan
  If you’ve ever wanted to channel Audrey Hepburn, this is the brand behind the iconic “Manhattan” sunglasses worn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

• Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Classic
  OG in every sense of the word and the best unisex option.

• Ray-Ban Aviator Classic
  A forever favorite and one of those styles that transcends trends.

• Ray-Ban Bill Summer Capsule
  A more modern take on the aviator silhouette. I especially love the yellow lenses for summer.

• Prada Pilot Sunglasses
  Slightly oversized with gray lenses — polished, chic, and incredibly wearable.

• Ray-Ban Round Metal
  A classic round frame that adds just enough vintage inspiration without feeling costume-y.

• Saint Laurent Oval Sunglasses
  Sleek oval frames that give off a subtle ’90s feel in the best way.

• Madewell Sunglasses
  Some of my favorite affordable sunglasses over the years have come from Madewell. Their styles are fashion-forward, well-made, and accessible without sacrificing quality. One of my recent favorites is the Russell.

At the end of the day, great sunglasses should feel like an extension of your personal style — the kind of accessory you reach for year after year, regardless of what’s trending.