Oscar Party: Philly Style

Posted on February 20, 2012 by southphillyfashionista

I’ll be honest with you. I’m not a huge Oscar fan. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good movie and it’s great to see the deserving ones get recognized. But it’s a hell of a long production for the number of awards given. What I DO love, though, is the Oscar red carpet. I could (and do) revel for hours in the glamorous gowns, glowing faces and golden accessories that Hollywood’s biggest stars and their stylists spend months putting together. It’s the equivalent of the Super Bowl for me.

And this year, I’ll be watching it all in style, Philly style, that is. Friend and phillystreetstyle.com editor Jimmy Contreras and Inquirer fashion editor Elizabeth Wellington will host the Philadelphia Red Carpet Party style at 10 Arts Lounge, complete with sassy and unedited live commentary from the duo. The party will feature complimentary Champagne samplings from Korbel, food from new chef de Cusine Nathan Volz and a live screening of the 84th Academy Awards in the rotunda of the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia, projected on big screens around the soaring lobby. Also on deck is a presentation by Saks Fifth Avenue, music by DJ Inga D’Angelo and a swag bag filled with goodies like Neuro Drinks, Classified Cosmetics and Maximal Art!

“The Oscar red carpet is one of the most-watched, and most elegant events in Hollywood,” says Contreras. “Honestly, what better place to take all of that glamour in than with a fashionable crowd of your friends in the lobby of the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia?” Dress code is “cocktail chic” and you best dress-to-impress as prizes for best dressed lady, gentleman and couple will be awarded throughout the evening. The twitter force will be in full effect too. Guests and those watching from home will be weighing in on red carpet styles with hashtag #PhillyRedCarpet.

Best of all, you can join us! The event is free for guests 21 and over. Just RSVP by 5pm on Thursday, Feb. 23 to Michael@vlahospr.com or call 267-687-0223. The party starts at 6pm with the telecast beginning at 7pm, but unlike in Hollywood, guests are welcome to come at any time.

See you there!

SPF

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Be Your Own Valentine

Posted on February 16, 2012 by southphillyfashionista

Didn’t get what you wanted this Valentine’s Day? Treat yourself with a trip to Free Reign, Lafayette Hill’s newest boutique that features an array of items including jewelry, fashion, personal care, books and home goods. Mother/son duo Josh & Linda Deneberg envisioned the shop as a place where patrons can have a relaxing shopping experience browsing clever, one-of-a-kind gifts to fit any budget.

You’ll find some brands that are familiar like Crabtree & Evelyn, Michael Aram, Chamilla, Verra Bradley & Brighton and many you won’t find anywhere else. The shelves of Free Reign are filled with products that are handcrafted in the USA, eco-friendly and locally produced. Pick up a one-of-a-kind gift for someone special … maybe yourself!

SPF

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Get Liquid-ated

Posted on February 10, 2012 by southphillyfashionista

Maybe you’re in a budding relationship this Valentine’s Day and want to show your new flame what a generous spirit you’ve got. InLiquid, a non-profit arts organization will host its 12th annual Silent Art Auction and Benefit tonight from 6 to 10pm at Northern Liberties’ Crane Arts Building. The yearly celebration will showcase the talent of local artists, auctioning various works of art including paintings, photography, jewelry and sculpture. Proceeds from the event will support the group’s ongoing mission for expanding opportunities and exposure for local visual artists.

The Crane Arts Building in Northern Liberties.

A group of prestigious jurors from the Philadelphia art world will select the top three artists to create a special, limited edition print for sponsors and guests. More than 150 artists will contribute artwork, gift certificates, jewelry and design items including Henry Bermudez, Brent Crothers, Judy Gelles, Sharka Hyland, Darla Jackson, Candace Karch, Lee Lippman, Nikolay Milushev, James Oliver and John Wind. Julien Robson, Curator of Contemporary Art at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Anabelle Rodriguez-Lawton, Founding Director of the curARTorial LAB and artist Buy Shaver.

Top local purveyors like Fork, Philadelphia Brewing Company, Ristorante Panarama, Rustica, and Philadelphia Distilling Company will also provide a lavish lineup of food and refreshments for attendees. Admission is $40 in advance, $50 at the door. If you’re unable to attend, though, you can still participate in the auction online at www.inliquid.org/benefit-v12.

SPF

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For the Love of Art

Posted on February 9, 2012 by southphillyfashionista

Next up in my series of Valentine’s Day posts is an idea for an avant-garde outing. Why not show your significant other you’ve got a little culture and take him/her to experience the latest exhibit at Bridgette Mayer Gallery. Costa Rican muralist Federico Herrero debuted his first major US solo show here last week, which will run through Feb. 25. The colors, shapes and forms of his home town of San Jose heavily influence the artist’s work, which features a vibrant combination of geometric and organic shapes. His colorful large-scale works have appeared on parking garages, buses and even swimming pool bottoms and reflect the intersection of culture and nature.

Most recently, Herrero was chosen to participate in the Art Parcours sector of the 2011 Art Basel fair in Switzerland, during which he completely painted the exteriors of four traditional fishing huts along the river Rhine, creating a “color and festive spectacle for passersby.”

I had the pleasure of visiting the gallery and having lunch with the artist and Ms. Mayer last week. Not only are several of his breathtaking works on display, but the artist has also created some site-specific wall paintings at the gallery. Don’t miss the unique opportunity to see this one-of-a-kind installation.

SPF

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Love on Lemon Hill

Posted on February 7, 2012 by southphillyfashionista

Next up in my list of Valentine’s Day suggestions is to take your girl out for the evening. I’m actually not one for going out high-end on this particular holiday. Much like New Year’s, you’re going to get lost in a crowd of diners, deal with pre-fixed menus and often less than stellar service. And since V Day falls on a Tuesday this year, why not keep it low key? Isn’t sitting together in a quiet place more romantic anyway?

With that in mind, why not take your love to Lemon Hill? Fairmount Park’s newest restaurant is a backroom bastion lifted from days of old. Dark wood and exposed brick create a speakeasy style atmosphere perfect for casual conversation and delectable drinks. I popped in for media night a few weeks back and was pleased I made the trip.

Artfully crafted classic cocktails were the highlight in my book, but the open kitchen’s comfort food came in a close second. Check out the Clover Club (above) or my fav, the classic daiquiri. Not to be confused with the fruity, frozen concoctions you find at the chains, this one’s the original deal, made with nothing but pure, sweet rum, fresh lime juice and cane sugar. Pastrami chicken wings, which I unfortunately didn’t get to try, are reportedly addictive. If you’re just stopping by the bar for a drink, be sure to munch on some of the super spiced pecans. They were so good, my group actually debated stealing the bowl!

SPF

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Hoop It Up

Posted on February 6, 2012 by southphillyfashionista

Alright, gentlemen, with the airing of the Super Bowl last night, football season is officially over. Time to start paying some long overdue attention to your girl. And as luck would have it, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. (Coincidence?) It’s the perfect opportunity to say, “Sorry I ignored you for the last 16 weeks, but I’m turning over a new leaf.”

With that in mind, I’ll be bringing you some gift ideas this week that will be sure to make her smile. First up is every gal’s favorite: jewelry. Honestly, it’s one of those gifts you just can’t go wrong with. And while I’d never turn down a diamond, an everyday piece she can wear to work or out to dinner can be just as lovely and actually more versatile. Hoop earrings are one of my go-to items to add simple sparkle to a stylish outfit. Philadelphia designer John Wind recently sent me a pair with a twist. These Baroque Pearl Hoop Earrings feature little capped baroque pearls swinging from classic gold plated hoops add a bit of whimsy to a standard ensemble. I like pairing them with my stacked pearl bangles or anything gold.

In case you’ve been living under the Schuylkill for the last 15 years, designer John Wind has made it his mission to create and uplift via his vintage-inspired jewelry and gifts. He began creating his one-of-a-kind pieces while studying at the Slade School of Art in London where he also fell in love with Victorian jewelry. In 1985, he moved home to Philadelphia and launched Maximal Art, some of which found a home in the permanent collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London and the Musee des Arts Decoratifs, Paris. All of the work is designed and assembled in the USA, mostly in John’s studio.

Check out all the options that John has to offer online at http://maximalart.com.  You’re guaranteed to find something your lady will love at a price that won’t break the bank.

SPF

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Slim Down with Style

Posted on February 1, 2012 by southphillyfashionista

I don’t think I could name one woman I know who wouldn’t say they’d like to drop ten pounds or so, especially after the heavy holidays. Most of the time, I’d like to do it instantly. Wouldn’t that be great? You’re standing in front of the mirror and bang, boom, you look thinner. No diets, no workouts, no scale watching, it just happens. It would be a dream come true, right?

Well, wake up, people of Philadelphia! PhillyHealthWatch is making our dreams a reality with its Style Me Slim makeover contest. Celebrity stylist Kevin Gatto of Verde Salon and Donna Cristino, founder of Jing Ai Organic & Natural Cosmetics will create a slimming new hairstyle and a customized makeup look to accentuate all the right features for two contest winners.

Want to enter? Contestants must submit a photo and explain in 140 characters or less why they or their nominee deserves the makeover. Entries may be submitted via twitter, using the #stylemeslim hashtag, PhillyHealthWatch’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/phillyhealthwatch) or email (tips@phillyhealthwatch.com) using Style Me Slim as the subject line. The contest is all ready under way, so get yours going! Entries must be made before Friday Feb. 10 at 5pm.

Two winners will be announced on Friday Feb. 10th and must be available to schedule their styling at Verde Salon in Collingswood, NJ between Feb. 11 and 17.

Good luck!

SPF

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Send A Sexy Surprise

Posted on January 24, 2012 by southphillyfashionista

Valentine’s Day is just a few weeks away, and so today, I have a bit of advice for all the ladies out there shopping for gifts for your man: keep it simple. You could go and buy candy and stuffed animals or more manly-themed gifts, but the only thing your guy really wants for this holiday is a little action with his favorite girl. Let’s be honest. The romance of Valentine’s Day is more for us than them and the objective of all that mushy stuff is quite frankly, to get your clothes off.

With that in mind, I have a saucy suggestion. Send your man a pantygram. Yes, you read that right: a pantygram. Online retailer http://www.sendapantygram.com/ will send your fella a pair of scanty panties in a little black box with an enticing message of your choosing. I suggest sending it to his office, as I did to my husband for our anniversary. It arrived with a slew of other packages that he started opening it at his desk. It wasn’t until the parcel was half way out of the envelope that he realized what it was. He quickly stuffed it back in (that’s what she said) and hurried it out into the hallway, but his coworkers had already caught a glimpse of black lace and his flush face and wouldn’t let the issue drop. Let me just say, he was the envy of the workplace that day as everyone, including him, knew exactly what was waiting at home for him later.

For a mere $24.95 (plus shipping and handling), the return on your investment is immeasurable. Enjoy!

SPF

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Walnut St. Supper Club’s Siren Song

Posted on January 19, 2012 by southphillyfashionista

It was months ago when PhillyChitChat first reported on the imminent opening of Walnut Street Supper Club, the reincarnation of 38-year-old Portofino. The new venue is billed as a 1940s style supper club featuring songs of days gone by played on a baby grand piano. “You will hear those unforgettable standards, made famous by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Bobby Darrin & Judy Garland, being sung by a talented team of waiters, waitresses, bartenders, hostesses and bus boys,” says the WSC website. This is what enticed my dear friend and I to attend the opening night festivities.

I was running a bit behind (shocker), but was excited when my friend sent me a text saying he was standing outside and “in love.” This was indeed promising. When I joined him, I too was impressed by the swanky allure. Very old world charming. The bar was beautiful and we were seated quickly, though not in the booth we requested. I could deal with that, though. A wall splits the restaurant in half, with the piano and stage on one side and tables on both. Unfortunately, this means if you’re on the wrong side, you have no view of the performances. Management apparently decided that having large televisions flank the dining area would remedy that problem. I found it rather like a sports bar.

The booths where we were not seated.

This is when the problems started. Our waitress came to take our drink order and my first question (as is the case in every restaurant in the last ten years) was “What kind of tequila do you have?” When she returned from the kitchen, she informed me that my choices were house and Cuervo. “I’ll have a glass of prosecco.” (Spare me the “Sh*t Fashion Girls Say” jokes. I know.) Sadly, it was flat. Thankfully, we ordered a bottle of wine to split as well. We enjoyed that only after it took three people to open it. I’ll spare you the details of the mediocre dinner. Sufficed to say, it was nothing special.
But even that I could have let slide if WSC has delivered on its entertainment promises. Instead of hearing classic era tunes, we were serenaded with selections by the likes of Nora Jones and Cyndi Lauper. Not that I have a problem with these talented ladies, but old-school crooners, they ain’t.

We opted for a liquid dessert and headed back to the bar where I spied a bottle of 1800 tequila. So, I tried again to order my margarita and was told that they didn’t have the necessary ingredients. Um, really? You don’t have lime juice and simple syrup? Ok, then.

Despite the charming décor and pleasant staff, there wasn’t much to redeem our dinner at WSC. I wouldn’t be surprised if this is Portofino’s swan song.

SPF  

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Under Five, After Five

Posted on January 16, 2012 by southphillyfashionista

Well, here we are at Monday again. For those of us who don’t have the day off, this means the beginning of the seemingly endless work week. Me? I’m trying to look forward and already planning to squeeze some fun into the monotony.

On my radar for Thursday is the start of Opa’s Happy Hour menu, featuring popular menu items for $5 and under as well a complimentary food and drink during unannounced half-hour intervals between 5 and 7pm, Monday through Friday (at the bar only). Night owls can take advantage of the same specials between 10 and 11pm. The menu currently looks like this:

  • $3 craft beers
  • $4 house wins
  • $5 specialty cocktails (try the Koukla -right-, you won’t regret it)
  • $5 sparkling wine
  • $Greekified fries
  • $3 meatballs
  • $1 skewers (c’mon, you can’t beat that)
  • $2 sliders

If you like the sounds of the line-up, “like” Opa on Facebook or follow them on Twitter for a chance to win a happy hour for you and your friends. A winner will be chosen nightly through the end of the month.

Zagat recently named the Greek restaurant as one of Philadelphia’s Top 10 Hottest New Restaurants of 2011, so if you haven’t been, happy hour’s a great excuse to check them out.

SPF

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