October 19, 2009
Yesterday, I reached the quarter of a century mark in my life, so I thought why not celebrate French Quarter style with a risque burlesque extravaganza – except this one was a little less overblown, a whole lot more modern, and located in the East Village.
I didn’t have overly high expectations for the little dive in Alphabet City, but I was immediately taken by Bar on A with their orange and black decor, complete with synthetic snakeskin detailing around lights, poles, and other subtle spots. It was casual with no cover – and the show only had a $5 buck bill.
I had already decidedly given the Kitty Nights gang of girlies kudos for the super catchy catty show name. There were the usual scenes – a mix of sultry and silly, which I quite enjoyed. Plus, this particular night also included a special act by the fierce little lady who ran the show – Ms. Fem Appeal. While I’m not sure exactly how I felt about the Little Red Riding Hood reenactment, I can safely say the fur costume that was flung around were totally faux. And what a fabulous time it was overall. The motley musical selection combined with a little bit of glamor, sauciness, and striptease was just the right amount of entertainment and excitement I was looking for to take on the big two-five.
Here, kitty kitty…
September 13, 2009
You bet I just ripped off the title of one of NYC TV’s hippest shows. But they can keep their clever concept, because I’m talking dress codes – not zips. Along with a few beauty bonus perks, my swanky new gig also came with a prescribed apparel policy: put-together, professional, and predominantly black. While the hue played right in to my usual palette, I was sort of lacking in the adult-age attire. But with a little help from my go-to online gallerias, I was able to assemble a working wardrobe that actually worked for me.
And when I’m feeling extra fierce, I like to jazz up my basics easy-bake style with man-made synthetics from Hollywood Mirror. Every modern maven needs a punchy power tie and trendy belt to secure her smart status.
Now you got it, girl. And I think I’ve got it down too. Just one quick tip for sure success: Don’t take any lip – unless it’s from New York Color (or maybe a critical client – P.S. they all are) – ’cause they know what they’re yappin’ about. N.Y.C.’s Retro Red lipstick sends me off with enough moisture and shine to make it through my dizzying day. And although they put in a lot of lab time in order to pop out these top-notch tubes, they never test their products on animals.
[$41 Liquorbrand cardigan at greasegasandglory.com, $15 cap-sleeved shirt at oldnavy.com, $39.50 low-rise trouser at delias.com, red leopard tie and silver skull belt at hollywoodmirror.com, $0.99 ultra-moist lipwear at newyorkcolor.com]
September 4, 2009
While, I’m disgusted by the idea of crocodile farming, I’m all in favor of this Lux de Ville “Rebel” faux croc bag. With the kiss lock closure and a serious amount of metal, it manages to maintain all the bite of a real bag without harming any of the fierce freshwater reptiles it resembles. This white hot accessory instantly ups you to risk-taker status. So, go shead and premiere it post Labor Day – I dare ya.
[$80 at luxedeville.com]
August 19, 2009
Take a stand against inhumane and unethical practices like horse racing and dog fighting. I mean now! All Creatures shows you how. They’ll tell you what you can do to discourage betting and help shut down these atrocious events. And once you’re done fighting for the furry ones, take a gamble on something decent instead – like a brand new hairstyle. I recently re-invented myself with a new two-toned palette and bangs `a la Bettie Paige. Not only do I love the look, but I’m eager to find new ways to express myself through it – like showing off the back blonde streak in a stripe type way. Channeling my inner Ed Hardy Geisha graphic, I threw it all up in a messy ball of elastics and locks, managing to turn eek! into eccentric with pearl white Horseshoe Dice Hairsticks by Luck 11. So much sleeker than Chinese takeout chopsticks, they’re also a bit Asian-inspired and edgy – but most importantly easy. Always a safe bet.
[$16.25 at howcool.com]
*Special thanks to Jack & Andrea of Panico Salon & Spa. Way to nail it!
August 13, 2009
Rock Rebel strikes again with their all too easy accessories. The perfect mix of punk and propper, I can’t help but crave one in every color. And at barely $12 bucks a pop, why shouldn’t I? My pick of the minute is the Skull And Bolts Hair Band. Talk about some low maintenance lovin’.
[$11.25 at howcool.com]
August 11, 2009
Dresses are a rare ocassion for me. But for reasons unknown, I can’t seem to stop myself from stocking up on them. What can I say, I’m a sucker for a fun frock, especially this sassy number from Rock Steady. Their Sparrow Lush Dress also comes in black, but I figured I’d ditch my usual stand-by hue for something with a little more pop. Although it’s a fairly basic piece, they manage to keep it kitschy by stitching a darling little sparrow on each shoulder. Cap it off with a cute cardi like the Cherry Button and you’re set.
[$49 dress at steady.bigcartel.com]
[$48 sweater at steady.bigcartel.com]
August 6, 2009
So, while I’m not exactly thrilled about my 15+ pound weight gain in the last year, I’ve moved past the denial phase – you can only say, “This month I’m going to do it!” so many times before it loses all enthusiasm. It’s time to focus on a more attainable task – replenishing my wardrobe with clothes less likely to cause MP or any other circulatory condition. Aside from denim, which I did immediate damage control on, my skirt section was hit the hardest. Composed mostly of minis or pin-up pencils, I was left with very little wiggle room. On the hunt for something with the same mod rockability and more stretch, I found a colorful skull-clad gem by Lucky 13. Sans skeleton, it would easily make up for my lost essentials. But I’m always one for less sensibility and an extra ounce of audacity, anyway. My one gripe is that, although normally an online-only shopper, packing on a few pounds has made me a bit unsure of my actual size. Free exchange policy, anyone? Please? No?
[$32 at greasegasandglory.com]
July 24, 2009
Would still make an adorable accent to any flat. But a zipper lined, black patent vegan one is truly a rare flower. I’m not normally into girlie girl style or it’s trademarks of pinks, florals, ruffles, and such. But this unique pair from Vegan Chic has definitely grown it’s way into my heart. I think it’s the zipper detailing that adds just the right amount of draw I need to deem it wear-worthy. Too bad there’s no possible way that my little size 6 foot can pull off the only pair of 8’s they have left.
[$45 at veganchic.com]
