No Excuses

The one bad thing about living in the city is that no matter how much snowfall we get, we can't call it a snow day and take off from work. Even if it snows for 3 days straight and the schools are closed in the tri-state area, NYC residents are beholden to show up for work because fortunately (or unfortunately, however you want to look at it) the streets do get plowed, though the sidewalks may not always be shoveled. In this economy however, I consider myself lucky to still have a job. The worst part of it is if you have a car parked at the curb, you'd have to dig it out of the snow and navigate ever so carefully along the slippery city roads, deal with parking garages, etc. and if you don't have a car in the city, your trek would be on foot and not much better. I feel bad for any pregnant woman who actually attempts to make it to work today.

This morning there were no buses to be seen, there was practically a waterfall from the accumulated precipitation in the subway closest to my home and the ceiling of the subway looked like it would come crashing in. The taxi I managed to get was practically missing it's front fender because earlier it had slid into a pole. As the driver pulled up to pick me up I pointed to the front of his car and mouthed, "should you be driving this?" He persistently nodded and waved me in, so I got it and made sure to tell him to drive carefully! I made it to work and realized that its eerily quiet in the halls and lobby. No surprise! Oh well, it's friday and I got paid. That's the only upside.

Inspired By A Snowy Day

If your style icon is someone like Jane Birkin, famous actress, model, singer, film director, not to mention thin, tall and gorgeous, then you will love the sample sale at Edith Machinist in the lower east side! Vintage is all the rage here, where they carry classic designer labels that you can now get at discounted prices! Beware though, this type of vintage can be very addictive!

WHAT: Edith Machinist Retail Sale

WHY: Load up on vintage winter wear—organized on $50, $75 and $100-plus sale racks. We’re crushing on the fur-lined boots, whittled from $255 to $100–$125; and 1960s-style Bill Blass, Pierre Cardin and Harris Tweed tailored wool coats, cut from $255–$325 to $100–$155.

WHEN: 2/25 - 2/28, Th-Sat (1-8), Su (noon-8).

WHERE: 104 Rivington St (between Essex and Ludlow Sts)

Hipster Cuteness On A Dime

IMO, this sample sale is so worth checking out. I can't even explain how ready I am for some warm weather. Perhaps with alot of positive thoughts and warm weather wardrobe planning, it will actually happen sooner than later. Darn you, Punxsatawney Phil for your evil prediction! Maybe I should listen to Staten Island Chuck and Buckeye Chuck instead!

WHAT: Amanda Uprichard Warehouse Sale

WHY: Calling all fashionistas. Amanda Uprichard is holding their first warehouse sale. If you wanted an Amanda Uprichard Double Ruffle Dress or a Boyfriend Tunic, then now is your chance! Don’t miss this once in a lifetime SALE. 100% silk dresses, were $196 now $15 to $40. Jersey dresses, were $180 now $10 to $30. There will be plenty of other amazing topics, tunics and dresses available in fun bright colors just in time for spring.

WHEN: 2/24 - 2/26, W-F (10–6).

WHERE: TWNZ Showroom, 226 West 37th Street 3rd Floor (btwn 7th and 8th Ave)

WHEN: 2/27 - 2/28, Sat-Sun (12-8).

WHERE: Cutie Room. 5 Rivington St

Here's My Theory...

If you like the look of contemporary, clean lines then you'll like the "theory" sample sale. It's chic, easy to wear and versatile clothing. Theory clothes make great wardrobe staples and your closet will love you for it! Great prices!

WHAT: Theory Sample Sale

WHY: Theory Sample Sale at Clothingline. Men’s and Women’s samples & irregulars. Slight irregulars available in all sizes

Separates $15 - $45

Dresses $45

Blazers $60

Sport Jackets $60

Outerwear $60

WHEN: 2/23 - 2/27, T-Th (11-7), F (11-6), Sat (11-5)

WHERE: Clothingline. 261 W 36th Street (between 7th & 8th Ave), 2nd Floor

Robert Marc Eyewear Winter Sale

WHAT: Robert Marc Eyewear Winter Sale

WHY: Robert Marc Eyewear is having a winter sale at all 8 New York City locations. The sale offers 50% savings on select optical and sun styles for men and women from designer Robert Marc. Also included in the sale will be designs by Lunor, Blinde and Oakley. This is your chance to purchase exclusive, handmade designer frames of the highest quality at a remarkable value!

WHEN: 2/22 - 3/14

WHERE: 400 Madison Avenue (between 47 & 48). Other store locations.

Domenico Vacca Sample Sale

WHAT: Domenico Vacca Sample Sale

WHY: Luxury clothing and accessories for men and women. Up to 70% off on current season men’s & women’s shirts, suits, ties, outerwear, sport jackets, pants, cashmere, gowns, dresses, handbags and shoes.

WHEN: 2/22 - 2/24, M-W (10–6).

WHERE: 14 East 60th Street. Suite 900

The Pizzacone???

So here's the story... I was walking on 5th avenue one day last week, coming from a bead supplier and I passed a corner storefront that was still undergoing renovations. The windows were covered with large signs that read, "K! pizzacone, Opening Soon!" "What the heck is a pizzacone?", I thought to myself.

Well... the picture above says it all!

I must admit that I'm curious while at the same time skeptical about how this tastes. Having come from a largely italian- american neighborhood in Brooklyn where there are pizza parlors on practically every other block (some of the best pizza's are from Brooklyn, by the way!) Having grown up with italian-americans as my best friends, eating a slice of pizza about twice a week after school with my friends in both grammar school and though high school, has left me with many memories of really good pizza. I remember how much the pizza guy near my house loved to see my mom when she would stop in for a pie on her way home from work, on those friday nights she didn't feel like cooking. I myself have made the home-made pizza, kneaded my own dough in the attempt to make a nice, tasty pizza the way I like it. But let's face it, sometimes you don't have time to wait for the dough to rise and you want that immediate satisfaction. Needless to say, having a good, neighborhood pizzeria is a very personal thing.

We all know that pizza now comes in many varieties- you can get a pizzabagel, pizzarolls, frenchbread pizza, pizza burgers, stuffed pizzas, so why not a cone. I'm open to new ideas. K! pizzacone say they use fresh ingredients and they even let you build your own. The basic build your own starts with mozzarella, then your choice of tomato or pesto sauce then a variety of veggies and meats to add on. They also have the standards like four cheese, mushroom and broccoli, etc. They also have some experimental pizzas like BBQ chicken and scrambled egg & ham breakfast pizza. So I wonder...how will the pizzacone stack up against the slice??? We have yet to taste and see!!!

Try it out yourself...

K! pizzacone is located at 325 Fifth Ave, btw 32nd and 33rd St; Midtown; 646.823.9318

Dress To Impress

As the spring draws closer so do weddings, proms and various other pre-summer parties. That's why the J. Crew Weddings & Parties Sample Sale is here. Just think about all those times you had a special event to go to and didn't have the right outfit or dress to wear. Now you can stock up and be ready for that wedding, cocktail party, dinner cruise, bridal shower or outdoor brunch date. You know the deal!

WHAT: J.Crew Weddings & Parties Sample Sale

WHY: J.Crew’s Annual Weddings & Parties sample sale will feature an assortment of bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses from previous and current collections. Receive up to 60% off retail prices.

RSVP at Skylarelliott.com for a special sale preview Thursday night — February 18th, 4pm to 8pm., 250 limit
*Some merchandise may have damages or irregularities.

WHEN: 2/18 - 2/21, Th (4-8, RSVP required), F-Sat (9-8), Sun (10-6)

WHERE: Flatotel Hotel, 135 W 52nd St (between 6th & 7th ave)

Once Mint, Now Jodi Arnold

This brand was once called Mint but was re-branded in 2007 to Jodi Arnold. This Brooklyn based designer creates seasonless, effortless silhouettes that go from office to evening to weekend.

WHAT: Jodi Arnold Sample Sale

WHY: The winter and holiday collections are 80 percent off at the Jodi Arnold sample sale. Embellished dresses are $125, tops are $65, bottoms are $50, and leather jackets are $150.

WHEN: 2/17 - 2/21, W–Su (10–8).

WHERE: 2 Great Jones Street, nr. Broadway

Good Belts Are Hard to Find...

I know how hard it is to find a good belt. Sometimes you want a nice brown leather belt with a small inconspicuous buckle or sometimes you want the buckle to be more prominent. Sometimes the buckle needs to be brass colored, sometimes nickel colored. Maybe you want a black leather strap that's more matte less shine, less texture, etc.

Well, if you like the idea of customizable belts then Badichi Belts is the place for you. They are located at 159 Prince St, between W Broadway and Thompson; SoHo; 212.533.2107. They are a Jerusalem based company and currently have 10 locations worldwide including the one in Soho. They literally let you mix and match thousands of belts and buckles then cut the belt to measure while you wait.

They carry standards shades of black and brown leather. They also have distressed, slashed speckled and faded, floral, metallic, and alligator styles. The leathers are also broken down by country- Italy, India, etc. The buckles are also categorized like, "edgy" or "handcrafted". They have dimpled and inlayed with ceramic. They also carry reliefs of bulldogs, horses, skeletons and more. So even if you're not sure what you need right now, it's worth a peak so you can determine what you'll want to buy later.

Andrew Marc Annual Blowout Sample Sale

Taking a trip out to New Jersey isn't all that bad when you've got a good reason. Here's a great sale that's worth the treck. While you're there hit some shopping malls, maybe a Morton's Steakhouse, stop by the inlaws house, whatever floats your boat.

WHAT: Andrew Marc Annual Blowout Sample Sale

WHY: For four days only, Andrew Marc will open their doors to the public for their “Annual Blowout Sale.” New York’s leading outerwear designer offers tremendous savings on the hottest women’s and men’s leather and luxury fabric outerwear, anywhere! Find sexy leather bomber jackets, leather pea coats, warm down filler jackets, wool coats, and luxurious shearling coats. Also, find a great selection of their leather handbags and accessories collection plus so much more! Andrew Marc brings you unsurpassed quality and craftsmanship at the lowest prices possible. Get into leather - Andrew Marc leather at the sale event of the season, the “Andrew Marc Annual Blowout Sale.” Be sure to catch this sale for great deals from 40-75% savings off suggested retail prices…

WHEN: 2/12 - 2/15, F-Sat (10-6), Sun (11-6), M (10-6)

WHERE: 50 Enterprise Avenue, Secaucus NJ (1 & 2 Floors)

A Kiss From Bacchus

Photo 1: Wines displayed along the walls, above the tables

Photo 2: Wood block tables set for dinner
Photo 3: Insalata Barbabietole Rosse (Roasted Red Beet Salad)
Photo 4: Cozze Al Vino Bianco (Mediterranean Mussels w/ Garlic & White Wine Broth)
Photo 5: Costa Di Manzo Brasata (Slowly Roasted Beef Short Ribs served w/ Stewed Cabbage

There are very few people that don't like italian food. There are those who like it, eat the basics like spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, baked ziti (I have many friends who fall into this category) and then there are those like myself who love it and are willing to try more regional italian foods like grilled or stewed seafood and meats in delicious broths and sauces, harvested vegetables, and homemade pastas.

As an early Valentine's Dinner we dined at a wine bar that opened up in our neighborhood about a year ago. The name of the bar is Bocca Di Bacco which translated from italian to english means "mouth of Bacchus" or "Bacchus' Kiss". They have a full dinner menu complete with antipasti, soups, salads, assaggi (tastings), pastas and secondi (main course) unlike other wine bars that serve finger foods and tapas style dishes. They also have an extensive wine list, in fact the 4 page menu consists of one page of food and 3 pages of wines including whites, reds, spumantes, rosatis, and reserves.

The decor is meant to mimic a wine cellar, dark with wide wood plank floors, some brick, a touch of iron, very rustic wood tables and chairs. Fortunately for us our waiter was an italian named Giorgio from Padua, who gave knowledgeable suggestions from the wine list. We ordered 3 red wines: Chianto Classico Bucciarelli 2006 Tuscana, Ciligielo "Dedalo" Fiore 2004 Sicilia, and lastly Primitivo "Punta Aquila" Tenute Rubino 2007 Puglia. The first was a nice, light classic chianti, the second was slightly more acidic and fruity, the third was more earthy, minerally and complex where you could taste the tanins.

The food was excellent and flavorful:
Insalata Barbabietole Rosse- roasted red beets, string beans, herbed goat cheese, raspberry vinagirette
Cozza Al Vino Bianco- mediterranean mussels w/ garlic & white wine broth
Orrecheitte All'Agnello- little ear shaped pasta w/ roasted lamb ragu
Costa Di Manza Brasata- slowely roasted braised beef short ribs served w/ stewed cabbage

Overall price was about $100.00 including wines, excluding tip.

We didn't have room for dessert but everythig about this place was pleasing enough to make us want to go back another time.

Never forget to treat your stomach well!

Butch Bakery Open For Business

Though the name Butch Bakery sounds like a hot spot for lesbians, it's actually a bakery which was started by David Arrick who once worked on Wall Street but decided to try his entrepreneurial hand in the culinary field. He has put a manly twist on the cupcake. We like a man who's not afraid to get his burly hands dirty in dough. Instead of pretty pink icings he tops the cupcakes with very masculine patterns like camo, plaid, houndstooth and wood grain.

He also infuses the cupcakes with liquor so you can find treats that taste like Rum & Coke, Beer Run, and Peanut Butter Bavarian Cream w/ crumbled bacon. Bacon on a cupcake...who'da thunk it! So whether you're a man or woman with a sweet tooth, there's no reason to shy away from having a sweet treat. They also deliver anywhere in Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan.

Check out more at the website: http://www.butchbakery.com/  

The One You've Been Waiting For...

Forgive me, but I'm far too tired this morning to write very much. Like all our major holidays, this happens every year. This year, it starts today so run don't walk to this fab sale if you're in NYC. It's worth cehcking out if you haven't been.

WHAT: Barneys New York Legendary Warehouse Sale

WHY: Shop the Barneys Warehouse sale and to find merchandise marked at 50-75% off regular prices on their selection of the finest designer clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women, as well as gifts for the home. Visit their website @ Barneys.com.

WHEN: 2/11 - 2/28, Thu-Fri - Feb 11th - Feb 12th (8-9), M-F (10-9), Sat-Sun (10-7), Sun, Feb 28th (10-7)

WHERE: 255 W. 17th St., (btwn. 7th & 8th Aves.)

What's A Little Snow Gonna Do?

Do I dare venture out into "snowmagedon" to grab up yet another pair of shoes? I'm actually contemplating it. That's how we crazies roll. Or maybe I'll just wait till tomorrow. Decisions, decisions...

WHAT: Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole Sample Sale

WHY: Stomping around NYC in heels can be seriously painful—hell, even flats can cause misery—which is why we’re so thankful that select Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole shoes will be offered for less than $100. Flat leather boots are $99 (were $350), embellished flats are dropped from $210 to $60, and wedge boots are lowered from $350 to $99.

WHEN: 2/9 - 2/11, Tue (11–7), W (11–6), Th (11–7)

WHERE: Clothingline.com/SSS sales, 261 W 36th St (between Seventh and Eighth Aves, second floor)

Well If The Devil Is 6, Then God is 7...

It's definitely not too early to start vamping up that spring/summer wardrobe. A little spring cleaning before you head out to this sale will let you know just what you're missing and just what to replace. This sale features great designer clothes at discounted prices. Showroom Seven is Heaven!

WHAT: Showroom Seven Spring/Summer Sample Sale

WHY: Wholesale and below, up to 90% off retail. Be the center of attention wherever you go by wearing the most fabulous collections around! Showroom Seven is offering designer sportswear and accessories at wholesale and below. Usually sold at high-end stores including Saks Fifth Avenue, Barney’s, Bloomingdales, Henri Bendel, and Shopbop. Designers include Orla Kiely, Erickson Beamon, Issa London, Bloch, Tony Cohen, Rockstar Jeans, Tony Cohen, Andy&Debb, Hollywood Trading Company, Sharon Wauchob, and much more!

Visit the Showroom Seven website to view more images and price points!

WHEN: 2/8 - 2/19, M-Sat (10-7), Sun Closed

WHERE: 263 11th Ave, (btwn 27th & 28th St.), 3rd Floor

Wardobe Update Alert

Good Morning Boys and Girls! We have made it to the 2nd week of February and Valentine's Day is fast approaching. For those of you that are looking for something nice to wear on your V-day celebration or if that's not your thing and you just want to add some newness to your existing wardrobe, you can get some great clothes at the Ted Baker Blowout Sale. Here are the details:

WHAT: Ted Baker London Blow-Out Sale

WHY: Blazers, pants, suits, and accessories are up to 60 percent off at Ted Baker. Shop the end of season merchandise sale. Here are just some examples of what you will find for men and women:

• Shirts starting at $50
• Trousers starting at $75
• Dresses starting at $95
• Jackets starting at $125
• Suits starting at $250

WHEN: 2/8 - 2/14, M–S (11:30–7), Su (noon–6).

WHERE: 107 Grand St., at Mercer St.

The Sartorialist, Lookbook, Altamira And Then Some

Photo 1: Lookbook
Photo 2: Face Hunter
Photo 3: The Sartorialist
Photo 4: Jak & Jill
Photo 5: Altamira

I spent the morning checking out some of my favorite fashion blogs for inspiration and to check out styles as other people view them. Style isn't just about the brands that you wear. It's alot about exploring how an outfit makes  you look and feel. It's alot about expressing your creativity through dress. Remember, it's not always about the uptown brands, it can often be about street fashion and the downtown looks that have the greater impact on style. It's not just about being "the diva". If you can create a fun and fabulous look from what's in your closet, it makes no difference if you're a big budget person or a thrifty babe. Just have fun doing it and live. Do what makes you smile.

Some of my favorite fashion blogs include The Sartorialist, Lookbook, Altamira, Jak & Jill and Face Hunter. The Sartorialist is exceptionally interesting to parouse because of the photojournalistic style of photography. Because of his background in fashion, he has an excellent eye on style. The pictures aren't always of stylish people though, sometimes the photos capture a mood, sometimes a point in time, sometimes architecture. What's refreshing about this blog also is that he occasionally makes very pointed comments about the subject matter and doesn't bother to make a checklist of the name brands that his photo subjects are wearing. There's alot in the expression of the people he photographs or even about the environment in which they are photographed. The Sartorialist educates not just about style but about observances in life. He also photographs locations and meaningful places. It makes you have a greater appreciation for your own experiences. It kind of gives you a heightened sense of consciousness.

A few months ago I added a new application to my iphone called ChicFeed. It features some of the latest photos found on The Sartorialist, Lookbook, Altamira, Jak and Jill, and Face Hunter all at a glance. Remember there's beauty to be found in all ages and cultures and that's what makes these blogsites really stand out. If you get a chance you should check them out.

Kapow!! Spring Cleaning

Get ready for the weekend! Take a trip out to Brooklyn for this great warehouse sale...

WHAT: Hayden-Harnett’s Spring Cleaning Warehouse and Studio Sale

WHY: Samples, one-of-a-kind items, and vintage oddities are up to 80 percent off at Hayden-Harnett’s spring cleaning warehouse and studio sale.

WHEN: 2/5 - 2/7, T–F (noon–8), S–Su (11–8).


WHERE: 211 Franklin St., at Freeman St., Greenpoint, Brooklyn

A Day Trip To Brooklyn

Today was spent bead sourcing in the un-ending effort to find interesting components for upcoming design projects. Our bead hunting took us to Sunset Park, Brooklyn since a few of the major bead suppliers originally located in New York City have had to move their businesses out of the city to accommodate their need for space and lower rents. Mode, A to Z Beads and Beadhouse to name a few. Fortunately moving to Brooklyn is a better alternative to simply closing up shop, otherwise the many fashion designers and distribution companies that depend on the bead suppliers would suffer the greater loss.

Sunset Park, Brooklyn is primarily a predominantly Mexican neighborhood. Many of the homes are row houses or limestones. On 4th and 5th Avenue you can find something of a Latino Restaurant Row. The location is home to a few automotive repair, sales and automotive service based businesses and is but a stones throw away from neighboring Greenwood Heights, Park Slope, Gawanus and Bay Ridge.There is also a large Chinese and East Asian community located on 8th Avenue. Like many other neighborhoods in the boroughs, Sunset Park is ever so slowly gentrifying.

It was a good opportunity for us to chow down on some authentic Latin food. Today's pick- Roasted Pork Shoulder (Pernil Al Horno) and Beef Stew (Carne Guisada) served over white rice and beans. 2 Separate meals plus 2 sodas only cost us $11 total. Delicious, filling and cheap. It's hard to find these prices in Midtown. The only downside- we were in need of a nap afterwards but it was so worth it!

I Had A Date With Some Seafood...

Photo 1: Outside steps to Lure

Photo 2: Inside Lure

Photo 3: Bar

Photo 4: Mini Loaf of Bread

Photo 5: Raw Bar Sampler

Photo 6: Dessert-Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

I've clearly been doing more socializing and eating out than shopping lately but I'm always satisfied so it's all good. Since it's still restaurant week I managed to get reservations last night to a seafood place called Lure. It is a fishbar located at 142 Mercer St. The first thing you notice when you step into this place is the sparce lighting followed by the clear cruise ship theme. There are no anchors, tackles or fishing geer hanging on the wall that are typical to nautically themed restaurants because this is not a chain. Rather, it's a great dining experience for food enthusiasts. Don't worry about the music selection (80's pop), you won't be paying any attention to it, there's alot of loud conversing all around.

I started off with a drink at the bar, Savignon Blanc, Eradus 2008 from Marlborough. A bit more fruity than I usually drink but still good. From the Prix Fixe Menu we ordered...

Appetiers:

Tuna Tartare- served with avocado puree and very thinly sliced fried cucumber chips. Yummy like sex!

Raw Bar sampler- Oysters, Clams and Shrimp with assorted condiments.

Entree:

Grilled Glazed Salmon- served over soba noodles, w/ pickled mushrooms, asian veggie in asian broth. This was off the hook! No pun intended.

Seared Yellowfin Tuna- served with olive tapenade and fennel scented potato. Yum!

Dessert:

Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie- w/ peanut brittle ice cream, chocolate covered pretzel stick. Orgasmic!!

Homemade Ice Cream Sandwich- You'll need a cigarette after eating this!

From the main menu we shared:

Lobster Tempura Specialty Roll-lobster tail w/ tobiko, spicy may & avocado. Really good!

Total bill including a white and a red wine, excluding tip was $125.

We should all eat and live with passion!

Give Me A Little Issey

What: Pleats Please Issey Miyake Sale

Why: Solid-colored pleated shirts, skirts, pants, and dresses are 40 to 60 percent off at the Pleats Please Issey Miyake sale. The 3/4-sleeve shirt is $82.50 (originally $165), the sleeveless pleated dress is $147.50 (originally $295), and the lightweight spring coat is $530 (originally $1,060). Various coats are 50 percent off.


When: 2/5–2/7; F–S (11–7), Su (noon–6)

Where: 128 Wooster St., at Prince St. (212-226-3600)

Weekend Recovery Right Here...

Happy Monday! Time to start it off with a great big sample sale! Whether you're slightly wrecked from a fun weekend and just managed to crawl to work like I did, or you're well rested and wide eyed, this is a can't miss sale...

WHAT: Purdy Girl Warehouse Sale

WHY: Purdy Girl boutique is a NYC staple for fabulous flirty date dresses and office attire. For a limited time get 70% off major designers such as Cynthia Steffe, Trina Turk, Nicole Miller, and much more!! Score these femme threads for as low as $10 at the warehouse event. Plunging V-neck Cynthia Steffe dresses are $128 (were $255), vibrant Nicole Miller turtleneck frocks are snipped from $298 to $90, Marc Bouwer satin and chiffon cocktail dresses are chipped from $525 to $98, and Beth Bowley cashmere sweaters are $88 (formerly ($219).

WHEN: Through 2/28, Sun–F (11–8), Sat (10-8).

WHERE: 464 Columbus Ave (between 82nd and 83rd Sts)