Get Over Yourself

Hump Day Crush

2009-09-30T22:56:00.005-04:00

Fall in NYC. There is a definite chill in the air and I love it. Forget about the fact that the streets finally don't smell, and the subways don't feel like disgusting tuna cans (well, maybe they still do). Pumpkin flavors, apple cider, a hot lunch. That hair is now brown instead of blonde. And if that weren't good enough, people are busting out their fall fashions, kinda like the adult version of 'going back to school clothes'. Scarves, layers, outerwear, boots. It is the most playful time of transition clothing, and I can't wait to sort out my Fall wardrobe. Shopping my closet for most of it, but definitely want to find a way to work over the knee boots, the dressed up sweats, and a cape to name a few. It is the start of the season and it makes me feel so optimistic for some reason, even if winter is right around the corner. Fall in the city, you are my hump day crush. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-09-23T21:57:00.004-04:00

He's everywhere I turn. Bombarding me with commercials for his new movie 'Couples Retreat', on the movie poster for 'Extract' at the theater by my house, on late night re-runs of the brilliant 'Arrested Development' - Jason Bateman and his cute mug. He started working it during the 'Hogan Family' era. The only memorable thing from the show besides the fact that it had the lady with a glass eye. He seems to be cute and sarcastic, smart but idiotic, nice but totally creepy, not sure how he pulls it off but somehow he does. Can't wait to see the new flick, since what's not to love? Jason Bateman is this week's hump day crush. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-09-16T23:50:00.001-04:00

It has been well documented that Grace Coddington is the real star of 'The September Issue' - and with good reason. Her passion, her unique eye for capturing style on camera, and her edge are all cutting and captivating. She has the balls to stand up to Anna Wintour (bold v. conservative, in both work ethic and personal style) and had a perfect foil in a man whom she worked with who was a total weasel.

I absolutely love that she is still so into what she does, and believes in it so strongly, when she has been working at the same institution for 20+ years. I don't know whether it was her former model days, her brush with adversity via her car accident or her flaming red hair that fuels it, but she is amazing both as a person and in the styling she executes. And she knows the careful balance of how to work the system. I admire all she's accomplished - I know I have definitely flipped through many of her stories and just drooled and dreamed of fantasy. I hope that I can be that cool and passionate about what I do at her age. Grace Coddington, you are my hump day crush.

Hump Day Crush

2009-09-09T23:22:00.004-04:00

NYC. Portrayed by Colson Whitehead is so scarily true to life, it blew my mind. His collection of short vignettes all tell the story of specific parts intrinsic to the city - all rudimentary ideas of what I have thought about at some point, only way more beautifully articulated. I really discovered that it is best enjoyed when reading the chapters while simultaneously experiencing them (ie: reading 'Subway', while on the subway, about 'Broadway', while riding down Broadway). It captures the amazing and grungy, the sometimes dysfunctional love/hate relationship with the city and its inhabitants - and the nuances of the constant battle of 'me' v. the city. But in Colson Whitehead's NYC it seems to be about an even score.

"It's the little taste that makes them go, and keeps them here year after year for these key afternoons. It gives this. Broadway is generous and knows that if it did not dollop out, it would be dried up. These occasional gifts cost nothing. Terrible and generous. Broadway knows that every footfall is its heart beating, that we keep its blood flowing. Broadway knows that if this secret ever got out it would be empty, so periodically it offers a glimpse. It costs nothing, this harmless jousting."

Colson Whitehead's version of NYC is this week's hump day crush. xx.

Hump Day Crush

2009-09-02T21:54:00.006-04:00

Mark Ronson. Producer of the Year. Celebrity DJ. GQ Best Dressed. Designer of Gucci shoes. Can this dude be any more? I always thought he was cute, and definitely noticed he can work a look, but wasn't super impressed with him until I saw him in live last weekend. He had these great kind of uptight dance moves that he somehow made look cool and had girls swooning. He is obviously talented and driven, but I think the appeal is that he doesn't seem to take himself too seriously. Amongst other things.I mean somehow he pulls off a bronze foil suit. With a goldish tie. And not look like a jerk.
And glasses (You know how I feel about glasses). With a houndstooth coat! Not easy.

Mark Ronson, you are this week's hump day crush. xx

Let Me Take You to the Max...

2009-08-31T21:55:00.005-04:00

Saturday August 29, 2009 @ Nokia Theater in NYC Times Square. I went to see Q-Tip, Mark Ronson and DJ Spinna, in a tribute concert to celebrate Michael Jackson, on what would have been his 51st birthday.

It was pretty nuts - three djs, many MJ fans dressed up in his iconic looks (most prevalent was Billie Jean). Basically the 2500 person capacity theater turned into a giant sweaty dance party.

Q-Tip getting down and Mark Ronson flexing his muscles. Ronson had made the 'I heart AM' shirt, and spun a set of songs specially completed that day for DJ AM.
Q-Tip mixed it up. Old Jackson 5, 80s Michael and even threw in some Janet. And rapped his verse on 'Got Til it's Gone'. And I was pretty impressed that Mark Ronson mixed in beginning riff from The Strokes 'Someday' with some MJ seamlessly.
Q-Tip also was like the head dancer. He was seriously unafraid to bust out some crazy moves. Old school Jackson 5 hand rolls, some Michael Jackson hip moves. He even at one point led the entire crowd in the electric slide. I was surprised that many people in the crowd were completely unaware of the moves that comprise the electric slide. I guess they never went to a sweet 16 party.

Instead of rocking out to the air guitar, Mark Ronson broke out his air trombone and Q-Tip found his air trumpet. I must say the two dudes danced and it was v v cute.

Grandmaster Flash showed up, in between Mark Ronson and DJ Spinna. And so did Angie Martinez. And DJ Premier. And Anthony Anderson. And Quincy Jones called in on Mark Ronson's cell phone and had a convo with the crowd.
And this girl. Marsha Ambrosius. I didn't know who she was, but man could she sing. Turns out she is a songwriter and wrote a song about MJ, and has sung on some tracks with Nas and Common amongst others. And she will have a solo album soon. Watch out.
Then Q-Tip hopped off the stage and into the crowd. He was like right there! And I touched his back. And then I was raising my hand up, dancing to the music and I touched a hand and instinctively drew it back. Turns out it was his. Oops.

Q-Tip then pulled a bunch of rando girls up on stage, Mark Ronson had disappeared, I sweat all the make-up off and was ready for a pitcher of water. Friends I showed up with were no longer there - some were pooped, sat in the chairs and lost their steam, some got separated in the crowd and headed out earlier since they had to work the next day. I experienced a good chunk of the concert on my own, but man was it a good time. It was almost 4am and it was time to hit the city lights. xx

You taste just like glitter...

2009-08-31T19:56:00.008-04:00

Ok, so I caved a little early this year on the Barneys Warehouse Sale. But in my defense there were special circumstances - an extra 40% off of discount prices for all women's designer clothes and shoes started early!

After trying on a sick pair of Givenchy peep toe zip front booties, and getting both sides of shoes in my hand (no small feat), I threw them back to the ocean and walked away.

And I am glad I did.

I came back the next day, last Friday, and spent my afternoon digging through the racks. After trying on a bunch of stuff. Marni ruffled poplin top (wrong color), green metallic Lanvin heels (these were so sick but hard to wear in real life), Louboutins (suede MaryJanes - nice but slingback, too tough to walk in), a bunch of denim, and some random Dries pieces, it came down to the final heavyweight bout. Marni black open toe knee high boots from the Fall 08 runway vs a Dries Van Noten sequined cross back, backless apron top (although I have no intention to wear it bare and backless).

I loved the Dries Spring 09 show - stunning and easy to translate into real life. And when I saw the collection in the stores, I remember drooling over the sequined pieces.

And as for the Fall 08 Marni show, I have the lookbook hanging over my desk, and I can always use a good pair of black boots!

After some deliberation and a few phone calls, I went with the Dries. Actually the tipping point was when I walked 5 steps in the Marni boots and the inside stitching was rubbing against my baby toe.

And am so happy with my decision. The top is entirely hand stitched - ribbons (4 different types of ribbon), 4mm and 6mm sequins (flat, cup, and faceted shapes for 6 different types of sequins), bugle beads, round beads, white grosgrain straps and a silk charmeuse lining. My favorite part of the top besides the price (normally $1400, I got it for $251, 82% off!) is the play on matte and shine and the texture.

The darker matte flowers in the picture below are actually multiple 4mm flat sequins stacked on their side and threaded through, then stitched to form the flower petals. Beads are sewn on sequins to create mini-flowers. Bugle beads are stacked and threaded in loops to add dimension. It is an amazing layout and fantastic handwork - it made it through a season on the selling floor, plus the crazy wilderness of the warehouse sale, without losing any beads. Click on the pic below for the zoom in.

I was worried that it is too precious and special to wear often, but I thought about it. Why waste it just chilling in the closet? So I wore it today - to work - over a white Hanes V-neck tee and ripped boyfriend jeans. It was fun to wear something pretty fancy, really dressed down on just a plain old regular day. I highly recommend it to kick off your week. xx

Oops I fell over. I fell over again.

2009-08-29T11:23:00.002-04:00

When walking home last night, this was the scene at Gap Kids on the UWS.

The store was still open and people were walking around.

I don't know what's worse, the mannequin falling over, or the fact that the mannequin has no head and it looks like it's head fell thru the floor. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-08-26T22:16:00.005-04:00

So the much hyped up 3rd season of Mad Men kicked off two weeks ago and the cast has been making the rounds promoting the show.

There is the dreamy Don Draper that every lady focuses on for his smoldering looks, position of power and terrible decision making while drinking during work. Played by Jon Hamm, he is dreamy out of character and pretty funny too. Also, there is the voluptuous Joan Holloway, who is adored by men and women for knowing how to use her curves, making sure everyone knows she is the queen bee, but complex enough to have a sensitive side. Played by Christina Hendricks, she gets praised for her curves in real life. And then there Pete Campbell. Who is hated by almost everyone for being a weasel who is not above blackmailing his boss, impregnating a co-worker while married, and overall just being a jerk.

But this weeks crush is on Vincent Kartheiser, the guy who plays Pete Campbell. There is something about the fact that he seems pretty cute in real life, but plays a huge weasel for his day job that is really appealing. Vincent Kartheiser, not Pete Campbell, you are this week's hump day crush. xx

Everyday We Hustlin'...

2009-08-23T20:09:00.004-04:00

So I finally made a trek out to CitiField this past week!

I was impressed with the set up - the nice escalators, a Shake Shack (the line was nuts!) and flat screens set up in the seats that had a partial view. Our tickets were $5 off of Stubhub, normally $19, in the upper deck in left field. It was nice to be that high since we were getting a cool breeze on a hot hot night, but I don't recommend it if you are going to watch a tight game. It is a funny angle since the upper deck hangs over the left fielder so you can really see any balls hit/caught there. But we still managed to have a good time!

But more impressive than the clean new stadium, was what I saw on the plaza in front of the coming off of the 7 train. This dude. In a prime location, unable to be missed when walking to the stadium. In a Mets uni, yellow Oakley blades, chilling with a pipe. He had a jug in front of him set up, saying to take a pic and donate to him!

So being a sucker I did. I was waiting for friends who were running late, and ended up observing him for a good hour - his owner stood off to the side, and packed him up to take him home after the opening pitch. Can't knock the hustle!

Now I wonder, what can mine be? xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-08-19T20:51:00.002-04:00

The Barneys Warehouse Sale. A twice a year phenomenon, there is something so exciting to look forward to about the two week sale held in a Chelsea warehouse. I can feel my pulse quicken when I think about the racks of possibilities - Barneys - at great prices!

There is a lot of strategizing involved, everyone has a different tactic. I know other people who like to go at the start and scope out what they like and hope that they can hunt for it later. I am not that disciplined. In the beginning, a lot of the prices are what they were when the clothes were still in the store. It isn't easy to resist a deal at Barneys in the store, but it's a lot harder when you see the clothes racked up on plastic hangers and shoved tight on racks in a warehouse. Your mind plays tricks on you!

My strategy includes waiting until the last half of the sale, usually until the last several days when the prices are discounted on top of discounting. I usually like the two days before the last day, you get discounts but not the last minute crazy crowd. Also key is wearing something that is easy to change in and out of, and underwear you are comfortable standing around in front of strangers in since there are no changing rooms. Wear slip on shoes for easy trying. And I really like going by myself, with my ipod and a small bag so I don't have to check it at the door - zoning out and hunting the field at my own pace. This also prevents friends talking you into buying things and limits the amount of crap you can try on and carry around.

I have usually scored at the sales, especially the Spring/Summer sale that happens to start tomorrow in NYC (8/20). Spring/Summer weight clothing in neutral colors are the easiest to wear year round, so you can get the most bang for your buck.

Here is a snippet of what I have racked up over the past several years, specifically at the Spring/Summer sales:

-Marni platform knee high camel boots. You can't see in the pic but the heel is awesome. Regular price $915, I paid $180

-Chanel peep toe lace up wedge booties. Regular price $1285, I paid $400.
-Ksubi jeans. Regular price $290, I paid $45. (picked up a bunch of washes!)

-Balenciaga pants. Regular price $285, I paid $50 (black and the best shade of army green)

-Men's Earnest Sewn x Canada Goose waxed canvas jacket. Regular price $1000ish, I paid $300 (3 jackets in 1)

-Dries Van Noten shantung vest with metal sequins, Regular price $680, I paid $160.

So now you know where I will be in about two weeks. But for now, I will be giddy with anticipation over this week's hump day crush - the Barneys Warehouse Sale. xx

I love game, I love game...

2009-08-16T20:38:00.003-04:00

For some reason this summer, I don't have the attention span to sit down and read - I have no ability to concentrate on a book long enough to get into it. Which is really a shame, but I guess it is something about wanting to shut my brain off. So I took my brain out for a mini-vacation to see 'Paper Heart'. A movie about the making of a documentary movie. Kind of a mind warp, but the movie was cute, funny and awkwardly awesome.

Some favorites about the movie without giving too much away:

-The movie incorporates paper dioramas and puppets that were really charming and sweet. It reminded me of the school projects I would always wait to the last minute to finish when I was little, and my Mom helping me build dioramas about 'Swan Lake' or Abraham Lincoln.
And that fifth grade quality to these scenes just enhanced their awesomeness.

-The main character Charlene is refreshingly unpolished and un-girly.

She rocks baggy jeans, glasses and hoodies. Her hair is just hair to be tied back, not a weapon formed with hairspray. Make-up is non-existent. She is one of the dudes, but I love how this doesn't register into the story line. It was great to see a 'love-ish' story that didn't involve a girl needing to change her look to snag a dude.

-Michael Cera. Love him and his awkwardness.

-Another parallel story line is getting other perspectives on being in love. From couples to kids, to a girl on the playground who thinks the ideal date is hot wings at Applebees.

-And the overall idea that a female is curious on if she was really incapable of falling in love.

Take a break from this heat and go see for yourself. And if you play your cards right maybe someone will take you out for hotwings. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-08-12T23:29:00.004-04:00

Dudes with Glasses. Maybe I am just a sucker for accessories, but there is something fantastic about a dude who can rock a pair of glasses! When they are really working, both functional and fashion-wise, there is something about four eyes that makes a dude more attractive. This week's crush was inspired by a dude I have seen on my subway car twice this week. One day he was wearing these ridiculous checked sunglasses (I think they may have been a ladies' pair) and was cute but nothing to write home over. Today he was rocking thick frame black glasses with working lenses, and dude was totally cute. Don't know what it is about the frames, but I am loving it this week. Men who rock glasses, you are my hump day crush. xx

Why you all in my ear, talking a whole bunch a sh*t I ain't trying to hear?

2009-08-11T22:45:00.004-04:00

For three months I have been living the life of a platinum blonde. The one constant question I keep getting asked is 'Do blondes really have more fun?' - it was cute the first time I heard it - after three months of being blonde, it is officially old. So here is my definitive response. I don't know if blondes have more fun since I try to maximize the fun quotient in my life no matter the hair color. But what I do know is that the blonde brings out the crazy.

Some reason people think that I can and have to listen to their judgement on my actions - why I went blonde, what they think of the color...here is a tally of some of my experiences both good and bad:

-Two on street marriage proposals from random passersby.

One happened while I was wearing sunglasses which covered most of my face, in front of my apartment and had to walk an extra block to avoid letting the crazy know where I live.

-Supportive family and friends - who were kind enough to be awesome (at least to my face!)

-A man I work with telling me everyday he sees me that he hates the color and it makes my face look even fatter

-A random man asking me 'hey blondie - where's dagwood?' on the street. Had my first 'blonde' moment when I thought Dagwood was a street in lower Manhattan.

-Multiple people telling me I was brave for doing it.

This was usually followed up by a backhanded compliment like. Choose your favorite 'I could never do that', 'I like it, but it's not quite there yet' or the best was said on my first day of being blonde 'maybe you should go red instead'

-A man on the subway who decided to shout to the entire subway 'A blonde Chinee girl. That ain't right. That shouldn't even be legal. uh uh.' He then went into a tirade about how Chinese people eat sewer rats as a delicacy. So many things wrong with the statement, including but completely not limited to the fact that I am not Chinese.

-Random people feeling the need to touch my hair. Not okay.

-People assuming that I went blonde to be more 'White' or to get more attention.

-Being told that my best asset was my black hair. And that I am going to ruin it with the bleaching. See below pic for a before shot.

It has been a really entertaining de facto social experiment. Everyone has a comment - from the workers at the places I grab my to go lunch, to rando people on the street, friends and co-workers. And to be honest it is getting really tiring - for the first time since May, I am really glad I decided to do this just for the summer. I know the reasons why I did it - for fun, a new challenge, a new look, curiosity to try something I never did before. It doesn't go deeper than that. I know I don't have to justify my reasoning, but I do want to say one thing. For the haters who think that I went blonde to be more white - I have never wished that in my life - and why not flip the script? Who says that bottle Blondes should only be White?

To be honest, I think Luda sums it up best 'GET BACK GET BACK, YOU DON'T KNOW ME LIKE THAT!' xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-08-05T21:52:00.003-04:00

Most of us have seen Joseph Gordon-Levitt as the little boy on that alien comedy 3rd Rock from the Sun back in the day. Or on the F train in the beginning of the summer in NYC. Or in his latest movie 500 days of Summer this past weekend like I did. A spectacular relatable non-love love story, Joseph Gordon-Levitt was so smoking in one scene - coming up the escalator in a suit you could hear every girl in the audience turn and whisper 'oh my god. he's so hot' to their friends. And yes, seeing him in person, he is just as cute as you would think, even wearing glasses in a tee all scruffy in the hot disgusting F train. A little on the wee side for me, but hey with that face, the smile, and seemingly interesting personality I would be willing to leave my heels on the shelves. Oh, and did I mention the boy can sing? If you haven't seen 500 days of Summer yet, do it. And develop a crush too. Joseph Gordon-Levitt, you are my hump day crush. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-07-29T22:17:00.002-04:00

So I have been known to say that I love anything with a beat and am an equal opportunity employer, but have no love for country music ever. A friend recently introduced me to Lyle Lovett and his big band and I can't say that I am a country convert, but I can say that I enjoy Lyle throughly.

Previous to receiving 'Live From Texas' from a friend in the mail, all I knew about Lyle was that he was the strange, cartoon looking random guy who was once engaged to Julia Roberts. I sometimes wonder whether this song pictured below is about her.

Once I listened I realized that he was a man with an amazing voice, catchy tunes, introspective lyrics and capable of witty banter. His caricature like features seem to turn into rugged features, with each line and curve having a story to tell. Oh, and I think that he would also be a great ventriloquist if this singing thing doesn't work out for him. I kinda want a mini-version of him to hang out in my pocket. Totally never thought I would say this but Lyle Lovett, you are my hump day crush of the week. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-07-22T19:44:00.007-04:00

Chester French. I had heard about them a while back (Harvard grads who Pharrell and Kanye both wanted on their respective labels), heard some songs, saw them perform on some late night shows, but wasn't 100% convinced on them until I saw them live at Summerstage this past weekend. They rocked the crowd with their performance, were hilarious and DA, the red-headed lead singer somehow managed to pull off powder pink jeans. Also awesome was the fact that he seemed genuinely into their fans, taking the time to chat, hug and mug for pics.

Their debut album is a great listen, but mostly, what won me over was their free mix tape entitled 'Jacques Jams vol. 1'. (so clever!) As if stirring up a bidding war between Kanye and Pharrell to sign them wasn't enough, Chester French busted out collaborations with both of them, plus, Bun B, Diddy, Jadakiss, Talib Kweli, Common and Lady Gaga, etc. The beats are pretty sick, the songs are catchy, and the duo is charismatic and cheeky enough to pull off lyrics like:

-'but those eyes in your head, well they butter all my bread, and I'm looking for a girl who feeds me well'

-'bow tie is straight, ascot looks great, ready to lay some pipe'

-'she craves attention, so I use protection'

-'you're my Puerto Rican Pamela Lee'...

without seeming douche-y. Don't even get me started on the skits re: endurance or swimming in Ciroc filled pools.

I thoroughly enjoy when one of their songs/skits comes on the shuffle mix, so much so that I get myself into trouble when walking down the street and I giggle to myself. Doesn't hurt that the dudes are cute too! Chester French you are my hump day crush. xx.

At the end of it all it was you.

2009-07-20T22:40:00.005-04:00

It finally feels like summer here in NYC - it started on July 4th, and continued this past weekend. So what better time than to enjoy the summer at Summerstage, a free concert series at Central Park. Saturday was beautiful, 82, sunny but with a breeze - the perfect setting to see Chester French and Q-Tip.

Chester French was an added bonus, but Q-Tip was really the draw for me. He killed it for an hour - working the stage and pulling from his vast collection of great songs. From Tribe days, to Amplified and Renaissance, with nods to MJ (see red jacket and some Jackson 5 moves) and James Brown (his DJ pulled out a towel and draped it like a cape). I was impressed.

Evidently, us mere common folk weren't the only ones feeling it. Diddy, Cassie, Michael Rappaport, Fab 5 Freddy and Dame Dash were all there. Randomly ended up standing by the left side of the stage, near the VIP entrance and saw all of them. But found Diddy the most interesting to watch, mostly for his need for attention.

Everyone was staring, like he commanded it. I don't know whether it was his bluetooth, or the fact that he was the only person who stood on the ledge of a trailer (which was unnecessary to see the show), or that he tried and succeeded in starting the crowd doing the double clap, or that during the 'Vivrant Thing' he decided he was feeling it so much he turned around and slapped/humped the trailer, or that he finally climbed on stage during 'Award Tour'. Probably, the combination of all of it. I know I couldn't help but notice - but I can say I didn't join in the double clap. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-07-15T23:04:00.011-04:00

With fashion throwing back to the strong shouldered 80s and early 90s for Fall 09 and beyond, there is something that I am enjoying about the 2009 re-vamp. And it isn't the Balmain shoulder pads, the sequins overload or the resurgence of bike shorts. I am enjoying the re-emergence of the Supermodels. Known by their first names, dominating shows, adds and even MTV (think George Michael's 'Freedom' video and Cindy Crawford hosting 'The House of Style'), these women epitomized the look of the times - curves, power and beauty.

These models still look great today and hold their own in current ad campaigns (like YSL). However, I am glad to see the new guard, the 2009 versions wearing the 2009 versions of the 90s. And Lara Stone leading the way. Hitting the scene with an exclusive at Givenchy in 2006, Lara Stone became a fast favorite of designers and editors. (One of these pics below was a tear sheet I passed to my hairstylist to go blonde...) Recently a lot has been made of the fact that she has curves (she is a size 4), the gap in her tooth, her mouth. But, I don't think it's fair that she's broken down into parts - all I know is that she captures the feeling this moment, and that she looks damn good doing it. Lara Stone you are this week's hump day crush. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-07-08T22:58:00.003-04:00

I apologize in advance for not having a picture of this week's hump day crush. I will try to explain this week's crush as best as I possibly can, but please know it was near impossible for me to snag a picture without making a scene.

While riding the subway this morning, I noticed a woman wearing a cute summer dress, and also noticed a colorful tattoo on her arm. As I looked closer, I couldn't believe my eyes. The tattoo was of a short stack of pancakes, three high on a blue plate with a pat of butter on top. And coming up from the short stack was - wait for it - squiggles of steam. This isn't even the best part. There was a half moon of fruits encircling the steamy pancakes. 5 fruits in total, all with stick legs and arms, and googly eyes. I spotted a banana and two strawberries, but I couldn't make out the other two.

This has provided endless entertainment for me today. What was the motivation? And the story behind it? And why this for the rest of your life? I also loved the attention to detail (think steam squiggles!) And how did she manage to have a cute boyfriend? I also was telling a friend about it while walking down the street exclaiming 'you have to live with that for the rest of your life!' And in some witty NYC pick-up fashion, a random man on the street chimed in 'I'll live with you for the rest of your life!'

So thank you, to the short stack pancake tattoo for endless entertainment and smiles. You are my hump day crush and will put in an order at brunch this weekend in your honor. xx

Tenderoni You Got to Be.

2009-07-07T22:06:00.003-04:00

So every summer I choose one semi-cheap sandal that I wear the shit out of for the season, and happily give them up once they've fallen apart mid-September. Last year it was a Matt Bernson studded cuff sandal, this season it is a Kork Ease, cork on cork wedge. I came across these online, but since they don't have half sizes I went to a shoe store to try out sizes. Turns out it was an orthopedic shoe store and they didn't have this exact style. But they did have a lady sitting next to me asking for something to 'hide her bunion'.

So, I sized it out, placed my order on Zappos, and was so psyched to receive them. The first day I wore them to work, three people I work with ask me about them, and two of those three bought them. Kinda bummed that I no longer had the 'exclusive', I decided to just enjoy them. They looked cool, gave height (nude and height!) and they were so comfy (see orthopedic shoe store). So how bummed was I when the strap popped off from the left side not even a month in?

Motivated enough to call and email, I was prepared for a battle with Zappos customer service to get my shoe replaced. Turns out no battle - they were so helpful, friendly and so quick to respond. They knew my account history, sent me a prepaid UPS return label a $25 credit to a new purchase and free overnight shipping for life. Turns out they didn't have my size in stock, but they gave me back a full refund, no hassles. Totally recommend buying from them for their customer service alone!

But after all that, I was left without my shoes, and was seriously missing them. I manically tracked them down from a seller on Amazon (I struck out on the first five sites I tried), but cross your fingers that these suckers don't pop a strap since I doubt I will have the same luck with customer service the next time. xx

The City Winks a Sleepless Eye.

2009-07-07T21:41:00.004-04:00

So this has been a strange summer so far. And even a stranger past couple of weeks. Between all of the rain in the city (rain rage), Ed McMahon, Farah Fawcett, Steve McNair and of course Michael Jackson. All on top of trying to get through regular life. I know I have been neglecting many things, in life and in posting, could it be because I am now a blonde? (see post from April 8th)

But anyway, through all this, there have been some rando things that have been entertaining and a good distraction. One of these is Larry King. Really? You're wondering. Yes. Since everything is in re-runs for summer and with all of the MJ coverage I have been watching more Larry King than ever before, or really than I would ever want to. And it is so unintentionally funny, I am usually guaranteed a good chuckle. Here are my top three favorites of recent episodes:

1) While interviewing Lou Ferigno regarding his relationship with MJ as a friend and trainer, LK threw it to a break saying 'we'll be right back with Lou Ferragamo'. Returning from the break, he tried to correct himself saying 'I'm sorry, earlier I meant to say Lou Ferragamo' You can clearly hear Lou Ferigno correct him off camera and then you hear LK say to Lou 'what can I say, you have a weird name'

2) When describing MJ's accomplishments, he mentioned '13 Emmys'. Someone off camera clearly said 'Grammys'. He corrected himself and said '13 Emmys and Grammys'. And was corrected again and finally got it right with '13 Grammys'

3) Tonight, LK told John Mayer that 'the smartest thing the Jackson family did today was invite you'.

No offense to John Mayer, but really LK? Really? xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-07-01T23:14:00.002-04:00

RIP MJ. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-06-24T22:40:00.008-04:00

Bryan Greenberg. I haven't thought about him since I developed a major crush from watching 'Prime' when it played on HBO every other minute. He was so cute in it - there was something about him that was kinda fly but not too cheesy to have a sweet side to him. A strange balance that was definitely visible in the film, but hard to describe.

So I was wandering the internets this week, and turns out the boy sings. Well, he can sing. Actually, his voice is really smooth and there would be no complaints from mee if I was listening to it from one end of the phone, but boy needs to work on some of his lyrics. The hook is pretty good, but some of the rhyming is suspect (cheezeeeeeey), and it is definitely helped out by Kid Cudi.

However, coming from a girl who watched the terrible show 'October Road' (with a blonde version of Donna from 'That 70's show' since he was in it), who am I kidding, I totally would have paid $15 to see him in the flesh at Highline Ballroom. The jury is out on whether I would pick it up on itunes. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-06-17T23:53:00.001-04:00

After seeing 'The Hangover' two weekends ago, all I hear anyone talking about is a) how hilarious it was b) how Zach Gblahblahblah killed it and c) how smoking hot Bradley Cooper was in it. There was a long discussion between my girlfriends and I about how he normally doesn't do it for us, but how somehow the scruff and the fat lip just made it.

This somehow led to us talking about who we would crush on if given a chance - the battle royale came down to three names:

1) Bradley Cooper (in 'The Hangover', not in Wedding Crashers)

2) Ryan Gosling (The Notebook, or really anytime)

3) Ryan Reynolds (Two Guys a Girl and a Pizza Place back in the day, 'Just Friends', amazing body, but also dated Alanis and married to Scarlett Johannsen who bothers me a lot for some reason)

So of course this led to my Hump Day Crush of the week. I know who my choice was. Who's yours? xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-06-10T22:43:00.005-04:00

Zack Morris/Mark Paul Gosselar. The stud of the 90s. I know I spent countless hours on the couch watching Zack and the Bayside crew's shenanigans, probably while wearing a Hypercolor tee and Z Cavaricci shorts and drinking Capri Suns. Although my favorite episode didn't center around him (sidebar: it was when Jessie Spano took too many No Doze and she was so excited, so excited...so scared!), he was cute enough to make it worthwhile to consistently tune in. I mean, how could you resist the bleached blonde hair and the teen dream with a megawatt smile? See above.

And dude grew up to be no slouch either. (I am purposely choosing to ignore the college years) He is still dreamy, still working and you have to love a dude who is funny and is willingly in on the joke! See below. xx

I'm the last drip standing up against the wall...

2009-06-10T20:34:00.004-04:00

Houston and Broadway. June 6th, 2009. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-06-03T20:52:00.005-04:00

I went to Highline Ballroom to go and see The Roots work their weekly jam session last night. The music was awesome and the guests were phenomenal, especially considering the tickets are a recession friendly $10. Totally satisfied with the performances, and crazy solo jams, there was a last crazy surprise guest - Q-Tip - who has earned top honors this week.

Whether during his Tribe Called Quest days (below) or last night (above) dude looks good and sounds even better. Okay, so he may have been a little cheese-y during 'Vivrant Thing' and 'Breathe and Stop' days, but I dare you to listen to either and not get the hook stuck in your head for days. His smooth flow and clever vocals tell a story, where his floating higher pitched voice is somehow charismatic and allows him to get away rapping things that other people would just sound vulgar or banal saying. Q-Tip can kick it, yes, he can. xx

There's no combination of words I could put on the back of a postcard...

2009-06-03T19:53:00.004-04:00

A nice weekend break to South Hero, VT for a friend's wedding was just what was needed. A camp right on Lake Champlain, there were ferries, ducks, geese flying, sun, bonfires and a ridiculous amount of love and support in the air. It was amazing.

Crazy sunset over NY, more specifically the Adirondacks.
Beautiful Lilacs - the color is apparently indigenous to Vermont. They smelled heavenly.

And then a harsh welcome back to reality. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-05-27T23:28:00.003-04:00

Okay. So I have gotten a bit of 'playoff' fever. Both series are crazy and I had a toss up this week between the Lebron puppet and the dude I finally decided on. But it was no contest after thinking about it. My crush of the week is Chris "the Birdman" Anderson. Yes, he has ridiculous hair, terrible chin fuzz, an absurd amount of wings tattooed on his body...but he has crazy attitude, plays with heart and is a spark plug for his team. He is also an interesting story of getting his life together and back in the NBA after being suspended for violating their substance abuse policy. And to be honest, he actually looks better with the gelled mohawk - dude off the court was pulling his best Backstreet Boy comb-forward do which I am not down with. I am rooting for the Nuggets, and not just because Kobe bugs me - but to see what the Nuggets and the Birdman can do. xx

Here it is, a groove slightly transformed, just a little of a break from the norm...

2009-05-25T18:21:00.006-04:00

Memorial Day - what better way to kick off the summer than watching the Yankees vs. the World Champ Phillies on a beautiful day in the Bronx? I don't even like the Yankees that much, but the game was fun and the new stadium was crazy. Huge, clean and new. Cushioned stadium seats, built in cup holders, actual leg room and futuristic clean bathrooms.

This was the true view from our seats, 5 rows back from the field, right behind Nick Swisher in right field.
Jeter and the boys warming up, doing some wind sprints.

And of course the food. There are all of the stadium staples - $10 beers, chicken fingers and fries. You have to try the garlic fries (be prepared since they are seriously smelly) and they also had cheese steaks (good but could have been better).

Of course with my luck, I managed to be in the bathroom during Jeter's homer, but the Yanks closed in on the Phillies 2 run lead in spectacular fashion in the 9th to win the game. There was a giant cloud over the stadium while the Yankees were down, but miraculously the sun started to shine and A-Rod (A-Roid) hit a homer to tie the game. It was the best game I have been too and I don't even like the Yankees that much. Will have to make it to CitiField next...xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-05-20T22:59:00.002-04:00

I am over everyone and everything this week and am not inspired to deem anyone crush-worthy. It has been a rough week... xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-05-13T22:00:00.003-04:00

Diego Luna. Sexy while scruffy, boyish cuteness when cleaned up, his accent, plus he's funny in two languages? Count me in. I am all about Diego Luna this week. I had forgotten how cute he is since 'Y Tu Mama Tambien', but I was quickly reminded when I saw him and Gael Garcia Bernal promoting their new movie 'Rudo Y Cursi' on the late night talk show circuit. I know I am probably in the minority since a lot of ladies I know dig on Gael Garcia Bernal, I like him with the glasses in the above pic, but I would choose Diego Luna any day of the week. xx

You go and call yourself the boss, but we're not robots inside a grid...

2009-05-10T21:44:00.004-04:00

Or are we? At Union Square this weekend, some shiny machines that were making a lot of sucking air noises at the top of the stairs of the uptown N,R. The sticker is blurry in the pic, but reads DEP - Department of Environmental Protection. Who knows something that we should? xx

Me and my Adidas do the illest things, like stomping out pimps with diamond rings...

2009-05-10T21:06:00.005-04:00

Sneaker Wars. I am not talking about 35th anniversary limited edition Run DMC Superstars, Jordan 1s or the fight for Pigeon Dunks, I am talking about the family battle that spawned the creation of Adidas and Puma, and shaped modern sports as we know it today. The book follows the Dassler family, the two feuding German brothers who once worked together, only to break off to create Adidas (Adi Dassler) and Puma (Rudi Dassler) and their willingness to do anything in order to succeed (and beat the other). Family feuds that crossed generations, betrayal, Nazi ties, corporate espionage, payola, arranged 'customs delays', wire tapping, the creation of secret companies, crazy wheeling and dealing - these two brothers had a major hand in creating sports marketing, sponsored athletes and casual sports influenced clothing as we know it today. It makes for a juicy story and a new perspective when lacing up my kicks. xx

Hump Day Crush...revised edition

2009-05-06T22:52:00.005-04:00

This Wednesday I feel the serious need to update a previous Hump Day Crush - instead of crushing on fictional character Sidney Fife, I am changing my tune and crushing on Jason Segel. Okay, I still don't like him as Marshall, but after reading this interview in an old Elle (click the pic to enlarge), Mr. Segel totally won me over. He talks about how the naked break-up scene in 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' was based on his own experience, about the outfit he chose for the last half of that break-up (preppy khakis, blue button down). How he spoke-sang 'Ain't to Proud to Beg' to his ex-girlfriend in an attempt to win her back. About his love for puppets and how he thought Fozzie Bear would get the most tail. And the kicker, was how he watched Tears of Endearment with a hot girl in a hotel room and couldn't stop crying for an hour and a half. A combo of a sensitive-weirdo/extremely funny/likable/tall cutie, I can't resist and ain't too proud to beg. xx

NYCity I'm the mayor, but I got a key to the city everywhere...

2009-05-04T23:35:00.003-04:00

Just an FYI, Metrocards make it through an industrial strength warm wash and a super hot tumble dry and still work. I learned this via default experiment while doing laundry (it was an unlimited, if that makes any difference). xx

When I grow up, I'll turn the tables...

2009-05-04T21:46:00.004-04:00

This weekend was a busy one! Saturday started with a ferry ride, a Japanese supermarket, a NJ mall, the Kentucky Derby (50 to 1!), Game 7 (boo to the Celtics winning) and ended with Pacquiao v. Hatton (Manny was so sick). My rainy Sunday was capped off by a NYTimes lecture series with Thakoon, Maria Cornejo and Narciso Rodriguez that was moderated by the Times' fashion critic Cathy Horyn, focusing on First Lady Michele Obama's style.

All three designers have dressed the First Lady and shared their thoughts on some of her sartorial choices:

-the black cardigan worn over the Narciso black/red dress worn on election night (Narciso thought the addition of the cardigan was cool, something a real woman would do when she was cold)

-the jacquard coat/dress by Thakoon worn to the First Lady 'face-off' with Carla Bruni in France (Thakoon was with his Grandmother in Thailand with slow dial-up internet when he found up, and the suspense of her pic loading was too much)

-Maria Cornejo spoke on her clothes being liked by the First Lady since it is a more accessible price point, and being more everyday wear for the First Lady (though I loved her comment about the First Lady wearing $600 Lanvin sneakers - she can spend her money how she wants since she earned it, and is balanced by giving back to the community).

The most interesting moment was when they opened the floor to questions. A young girl around 12, asked the panel what it took to be a designer. Narciso's instant answer was don't do it! Then he revised and said that's what he tells everyone and it takes hard work...Maria pitched in and said it takes hard work and it is not glamorous at all.

From my experiences, I totally understand where he was coming from, and the industry is rarely glamourous, but I couldn't help but wonder if his instant response crushed a little girl's dream. I really hope not, and that she will make her decision on her own someday. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-04-29T23:02:00.003-04:00

There is something that is hot about two men trying to punch the daylights out of each other in a ring in Las Vegas that I kind of have a crush on this week. I don't find Manny Pacquiao or Ricky Hatton particularly attractive, but I am thoroughly intrigued by both of them and this fight. Both have a huge following and both are bruisers who prefer punching to dancing around the ring. Fueling this fire is the HBO show following their daily life with Moms and Dads, kids, girls, church, friends and trainers with juicy stories. I am curious about it all - how boxing is still seen as a 'glamorous' event where spectators dress up to watch two men slug it out, the hype of promotion, and how two people can turn off their normal everyday lives and punch their opponent to knock them out. Count me in. Can't wait for Saturday. xx

Do, do you have a first aid kit handy?

2009-04-24T22:36:00.008-04:00

Spring has sprung here in NYC. Better than walking in the sunshine pre-summer sidewalk funk and getting rid of my winter coat to enjoy the cool breeze is the first trip to Shake Shack of the season. Tonight, the long wait with friends went by quickly, not just because we were laughing, but there was the cutest French Bulldog hanging out playing with a friend. The dog was rocking a mini-leg cast on his back right leg (!) that was neon green and white, but it totally wasn't hampering him from enjoying Shake Shack as well. Smart dude. xx

Like I already got the beat, all I need is the words...

2009-04-22T22:03:00.004-04:00

Weather in NYC has been weird. Sometimes 77 and sunny, the very next day cold, rainy and gross. Stuck in the rut like the weather, with nothing too crazy going on, I figured it would be a good time to re-read this short book filled with interesting quotes and perspectives on how to improve (with a slant on the ad industry). One of my favorites in this book is how it presents one of my favorite quotes of all time by Einstein, page 51.

"There is nothing that is a more certain sign of insanity than to do the same thing over and over and expect the results to be different." xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-04-22T21:00:00.004-04:00

Recently there hasn't been anyone that I am really feeling...so this week, we are going back in time 10 years ago to a crush from 1999. In the summer of 1999, I spent the summer home from Boston, teaching swimming at my old high school. Our pool, just so happened to be used for filming the amazingly terrible 'Baywatch: Hawaii'. It was so terrible, and the taping would be so tedious, no walking on the pool deck, needing to be quiet. But the one thing that made it worth it was Jason Momoa. Tall, tan, amazing eyes, hot body. He would be hanging out in his red trunks and all us girls had some free eye candy on the deck all summer.

Hadn't thought about him for a long minute, until last year my friend (who was also at the pool that summer, and may or may not have taken a picture with Jason who wasn't wearing his shirt) dropped me a line and told me that our crush had re-surfaced and just had a baby with Lisa Bonet. This is him, circa now.

Which do you prefer? As for me, I'd take either! xx

My dirty little secret, who has to know?

2009-04-21T23:36:00.003-04:00

While trying to be good in more ways than one today, I made my lunch...and shock of shockers, it was a salad. In my attempt to be healthy (for one meal at least) and to be conscientious and bring my lunch, I ended up spilling salad dressing down my silk button thru. It left a visible oil stain that I started to panic about.

I tried the Tide pen. No good. So I googled how to get rid of oil stains. There were tons of suggestions - most including pouring talcum or baby powder on the stain and letting it sit for 12 hours. With no powder and no time, I went to the next suggestion which was to wash the spot with dish soap, which totally removed the spot. I thought it was so clever and was psyched that my attempt to be good didn't end poorly that I had to share. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-04-15T23:23:00.005-04:00

This is one of those blind crushes that you just know is going to work out. I may know nothing beyond surface things - a sneak preview of a name, some outfits, the sound of their voice, random details - but I am so excited about Grey Gardens, the HBO movie. There is something about this eccentric true story, the glamorous fashion and the heartbreaking reality of the Edies that I really can't wait to see unfold. I hope this crush won't let me down. xx

Take it or leave it, and take it or leave it, just take it.

2009-04-14T21:07:00.005-04:00

7th Ave @ 39th street. Spotted today when I was out on lunch. I don't know what was more random, the one man band set up shop on a wide plaza (that is normally empty) on 7th Ave next to the sewing statue and the giant button when it was supposed to rain, the filthy Easter Bunny who was not contributing to the music but holding a giant tip bucket, the fact that the one man band's kick drum was also accepting tips or that there was an older man just in awe, chilling, eating chips and taking in the show. xx

Start spreading the news...

2009-04-13T21:27:00.005-04:00

I am loving the NYmag cover article for this week. With 50.5% of New Yorkers moving here from somewhere outside of NY, this article chronicles the experiences of people's 'First New York'. From Amy Sedaris seeing a man shitting against a wall to Diane Von Furstenberg's charmed Park Avenue life, the stories are as varied as the city itself.

I had always known I was going to eventually end up in NYC. At the end of August 2003, I moved here with no job, no apartment and no money (a long story for another time). But before I moved, I came and I visited a friend for fun. I figured this would be a good time to bring a few bags and leave it in her apartment to make the move easier. It just so happened that my visit was on August 14, 2003 and my bus pulled into Port Authority in the middle of The Blackout.

I ended up strapping on one bag, wheeling another and trekking from Port Authority crosstown to the Waldorf (dropped my bags off at a family friend's restaurant), up to 86th St, hopped a bus crosstown and waited at my friend's apartment. During my wait on that ridiculously hot day, a nice random lady asked me who I was waiting for, and when I told her my story, she pointed out where she lived, gave me her phone number and told me that I could stay with her if I couldn't get in touch with my friend. It started to get dark, and as nice as the offer was, I didn't want to stay at a random person's house. I got in touch with another old friend, who was at Columbia Law at the time. So I hiked it up another 30 blocks to 121st street, and up a bunch of stairs, and spent the night giggling with friends and sleeping on the floor in my filthy clothes.

I remember being asked "are you sure you still want to move there?" And there was no doubt in my mind that the answer was still yes. What's your story? xx

Give me just one week of danger at a time...

2009-04-13T21:01:00.004-04:00

Okay, weird choice - I know. But I saw a friend reading this book recently and had to laugh since the last time I saw a copy of 'The Eight' was the summer before high school, when it was summer reading for Modern European history (one of the few that didn't put me to sleep). I was curious to read it again and see if it was as juicy as I remembered.

'The Eight' follows two stories - one of Mirielle, a French Nun in the French Revolution (1790s) and Cat Velis in the 1970s and their relationship to the Montglane Service, a chess set that was supposed to bring great powers to the person who possessed it. There is deception, murder, worldwide chases, lust and mystery. When I finished, I couldn't believe that it was school approved for 13 year olds to read. The content is borderline if-y, the writing isn't that great, and there was no real history anywhere to be found. Funny to take a trip back in time and read this with older eyes! xx

But I don't wanna be a pirate!

2009-04-10T14:50:00.004-04:00

Walked by this gem today while out and about. Street vendor @ Prince and Mercer. Make it happen - if you are going to be on the Today Show. Or plan on joining an FLDS polygamist family. Or are the costume director for Big Love...and have a floor length acid wash denim pencil skirt to go with it. xx

Your groove I do deeply dig...

2009-04-08T22:31:00.003-04:00

Model Daul Kim went blonde and I am really digging the look. Something about her fair skin, with the blonde hair and dark eyebrows...this is one look that I would love to try but just don't know if I have the balls to pull off. Or more likely upkeep. I have had an angled bob, highlights, a perm (I blame the 5th grade lapse of judgement), layers, bangs, boy-short and hair to my bum. I have been wanting a change for spring. Could this be it? xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-04-08T18:49:00.005-04:00

Tall, carefree, a little crazy and quite dapper in a scarf. Sydney Fife, you are my hump day crush. I know I should really be saying Jason Segel...but it is something about him playing Sydney Fife that is appealing, since he just doesn't do it for me as Marshall on 'How I Met Your Mother'. Something about Sydney's shadiness, willingness to try and fight Lou Ferrigno for screwing over his friend, his penchant for scarves, shorts and man-Uggs (a difficult feat), rocking out in his man cave, or his enthusiasm to push his friend to be his best - Sydney Fife is the ultimate bro and no brainer crush. xx

I paid a grip for them jeans, plus the slippers are clean.

2009-04-06T21:33:00.008-04:00

Cut-off short shorts. Ripped jeans. Boy's shorts with holes. I have been rocking these styles for a while now and enjoying them thoroughly. But my eyes and wallet can't believe the prices on some of these things. I totally understand and appreciate the time it takes to craft holes, perfect the worn in wash, and to distress jeans but I just can't get my head around $250 denim shorts!

Okay, I might have caved and bought the Alexander Wang hole-y Boy's shorts last fall. But the rest have all been on my own and here is a DIY that is easy, cheap and will get you prepped for Spring. (it also made me look forward to doing laundry!)

1) cutoffs.

Take an old pair of jeans and cut the legs off! For me, it was easiest to cut at mid-thigh and slowly cut more off until I reached my desired length. Use a sharp scissors and leave a raw edge. Once you throw it through the wash and dryer, all of the fraying and fringe will be set. I personally like the look of pocket bags showing, so I put a 1/4" slit on both sides of the shorts and fold up to make a mini-cuff. A light version of these took me through spring/summer last year and this dark pair was a staple with tights this winter.

2) Ripped jeans. This works the best on skinny, straight or boyfriend jeans (like below). These are old classic 501s that were given to me. To funk it up a little, I added the cuts. I am not a fan of rips on my knees, so I made sure not to cut holes there...but I love the pocket rips and the random sizes through the leg. Just take a sharp scissors and snip a small section at your desired placement and either snip straight, or carefully rip the rest of the hole. Try to make it a little random. Throw it in the wash and dryer, and wear them around your house to break them in before Spring/Summer is in full effect. That way they will fit great when they need to and you will have built in air conditioning! xx

I'm trying not to love you, but you don't make it easy babe...

2009-04-06T00:12:00.004-04:00

Tarrytown. You see, me and Tarrytown are in a fight. Well, not the town, but me and the security guard at Walgreens. Last November, two friends who are culinary fiends allowed me to crash their NY food mission, which included the incredible Blue Hill at Stone Barns (see the Degustation and Devastation blog in the sidebar for pics). We had such a spectacular meal, that we ended up missing our train and needed to wait for an hour. During the wait for the train, nature called and I dragged everyone to the Walgreens that was walking distance to the station, only to be told by the guard that there were no bathrooms to use and that I would have to take a cab to the 7-11 up the street. When I asked him where he went when he had to use the restroom at the 24 hour Walgreens that he worked the night shift at, he said that he went at home before work. Our cab driver later told me that there are three bathrooms in the Walgreens and that is where he goes when he was working his shift. When I hopped the last train back to the city, I figured that I wouldn't be going back there anytime soon.

This morning, a friend called with an extra ticket for a concert of her favorite singer, Josh Ritter since the dude she was supposed to go with bailed out at the last second. 1) I don't know who Josh Ritter is 2) I was prefaced that I would probably be the only non-white person there and 3) it was in Tarrytown. All duly noted, but wanted to be a good partner in crime for a friend and got over myself and made the trek to Tarrytown this evening.

The day was beautiful so the Hudson was sparkling in the sun while on the train. The concert hall was first built in 1885, with many random details (see silhouetted dancers) and had no bad seats. The music was fun and catchy, although I can't say I would have initiated going to this concert. His music is a blend of folksy guitar driven songs, that somehow combine love and historical figures and storytelling and he makes it work. His smile is infectious (even the quite large dude standing next to me told his buddy that) and he managed to sing acoustically with no mic, chug two bottles of water on stage while lying down, have a dog do tricks on stage and invited all of his friends to sing along with him for his last song on stage. Like no other concert I have been to before. I stepped out a little tonight and am glad I did. Thanks AJ. And will one of my friends please get on the ball of becoming a semi-well known musician? Since I would love to dance on stage a bit. thanks. xx

I'm keeping my secrets mine...

2009-04-05T16:16:00.004-04:00

What is the rarest animal in the forest? A White Tiger. The story follows a boy who grew up without a name in the Darkness, who eventually broke all odds and was the rare story of making good and coming to the light. Only his path to success was crooked, including hard work and murder. A White Tiger amongst his people. Somehow charismatic yet completely flawed, this murderer spins a good story, and was not easy to put down. xx

So Fresh and So Clean, Clean

2009-04-01T19:49:00.003-04:00

The Roots. I can't get enough and love that I can get a daily dose from Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. Whether rocking the slow jam, freestyling songs about the audience or performing with Public Enemy, the thing I appreciate the most are their intro songs for guests while walking on the set. Here is a list of recent ones that impressed me fully.

Mike Meyers - a musical version of his "woman, wo-man" poems from 'So I Married an Axe Murderer' (a personal favorite movie)

Glen Close - 'Close to You', only change the words to 'Glen Close to You'

Kristen Wiig - 'Wiggle It' (which totally took me back to high school!)

If you had your choice, what would be your theme song?

A strong contender for me would be the title of this post...xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-04-01T18:43:00.004-04:00

James Franco. Smoldering good looks made less overwhelming by his sly slow smile and ability to be funny, what's not to love? Whether rocking a sketchy 70s porn 'stache and perm in Milk or as the clueless lovable pothead, Franco can't lose. And frankly neither can the ladies. For crying out loud, I watched Tristan and Isolde, which was terribly tragic (and not in a good way). And I just may have enjoyed every minute he was in it. Two times. xx

Something happens and I'm head over heels, I never find out until I'm head over heels...

2009-03-30T20:12:00.004-04:00

With April quickly approaching, I am looking for new mini-challenges. Any thoughts?

As for March, the mini-challenges were not the most successful. Once it started getting nice out, I wore heels to work everyday...until last Friday when I managed to face plant down the Times Square subway stairs. Riding the stairs on my shins during rush hour in front of a full platform managed to bruise both my shins and my ego. Maybe I will need to get over my stance on commuter shoes.

Re: the books, my next American classic was going to be "To Kill a Mockingbird" but I couldn't get past the first two pages without taking a nap (this happened twice). So instead, I made an executive decision to start in on Typhoid Mary by Anthony Bourdain. Seems juicy so far.

Who wants to be right as rain, it's better when something is wrong...

2009-03-30T19:52:00.003-04:00

While picking up groceries at Sunrise Mart, I got the jones for a snack. They were out of one of my favorites - 'happy turns', a rice cracker with a sweet/salty powdery coating that manages to hit the spot. I decided to take a risk and try something new. KA-RU (how Japanese people would pronounce curl). It is a corn puff, think Cheetoh puffs texture, that is shaped like a curl and comes in different flavors. This bag just so happens to be clam chowder. And it is delicious. Go and pick up a bag. But something tells me that this won't be the next Lay's flavor.

Hump Day Crush

2009-03-25T19:38:00.007-04:00

6 feet 5 inches of cosmopolitan hotness, Yu Darvish is my hump day crush. My first glimpse of Yu was while watching the 2007 Japanese baseball championships with my Dad in Tokyo, where Darvish is the ace pitcher for the Nippon Ham Fighters. When I asked my Dad what his deal was, there was of course a story.

Besides his good looks and interesting background (his father is Iranian, his mother is Japanese and they met while going to college in Florida), he also has skills. Darvish gained popularity when he was in high school when throwing a no hitter in the Koshien high school championships. He then gained notoriety when caught smoking in a pachinko parlor (a Japanese gambling arcade) while still in high school, and later posing nude for a magazine while in the pros. At the ripe old age of 21, Darvish married a popular Japanese actress and had a baby, shocking many in Japan.

More recently, he was part of Japan's World Baseball Championship 2009 winning team. Tall, hot and full of controversy, the rumor is that Darvish will be soon coming to America and the MLB. Can't wait! xx

She said she wants some Marvin Gaye, some Luther Vandross, a little Anita can definitely set this party off right...

2009-03-23T19:58:00.003-04:00

Slow Jam the News. How can you make AIG's terrible reality sexy as hell? Turn it into a slow jam with the Roots and Jimmy Fallon. Jimmy Fallon's goofiness is the perfect foil for Black Thought's lyrical skills (and those lips!) and Questlove's undeniable style. Love it. xx

get over yourself.

2009-03-23T19:34:00.003-04:00

My Best Friend's Wedding. Two friends who had a thing for each other in college make a pact that if they don't find someone by the time they are both 28, they would marry each other. Twenty-Eight. 28. really? Was that the accepted age of marriage desperation in 1997?

The girl then proceeds to make a fool of herself for the next hour trying everything to break up the soon to happen marriage including getting drunk, passing out and needing to chisel a mask off of her face, forcing her gay editor to pretend he's her fiancee, terrible karaoke, fraudulent e-mailing and supremely manipulative behavior. After seeing this again recently, I don't know why I ever paid money to see this in the theater.

My Best Friend's Wedding, you need to Get Over Yourself. xx

She's always avoided falling in love. Yes, it's due to a life of a private affair.

2009-03-23T19:11:00.003-04:00

'American Wife'. Curtis Sittenfeld is one of my favorite authors - her writing has a way of sucking me in and the next thing I know I read 300 pages. I enjoy that her details are well thought out and always included for a reason. Although it can't hold a candle to my favorite book of hers ('Prep'), 'American Wife' follows the journey of Alice Lindgren from small town youth to First Lady of the United States. Loosely based on the life of Laura Bush, this fictional story includes cheeky grandmothers, tragic deaths, love, lust, and betrayal. It is impossible not to picture Laura and George Bush as the Blackwells, but I think it makes the story flow smoother, it wasn't distracting.

Don't judge this book by it's cover - the artwork is terrible and I don't really get why it was chosen since it doesn't fully match the story. In fact, I disliked the cover so much I refused to read it outside of my house. And a bit of advice, pick up the paperback version. I had the hardback and I threw out my shoulder when holding it to read! xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-03-18T19:56:00.004-04:00

March Madness. Tall dudes with amazing arms giving their all on the court for their team/school/pride non-stop for three weeks? The drama of competition and cinderellas and brackets? Count me in.

I watch every year, cheer on my school (go BC!), and develop a three week crush. I don't know who this year's lucky dude will be, but here are some crushes from the past years of March Madness worthy of taking a look back on.

Miles Simon. Bald, cute with smooth skills and winning attitude to lift his team for the win in '97.

This next one sums up everything I love about March Madness. I know that the majority of people who watch this clip are mesmerized by pretty boy Laettner's floppy hair and miracle fadeaway jumper in '92. What you don't see is the cutie with the flat top who executed the perfect pass needed to make the winning shot happen. Grant Hill. Gotta love a team player.

Can't wait for all of the games and action. Wonder who this year's crush will be? One thing I know for sure though, it won't be Tyler Hansbrough. xx

When y'all at ten, I'm at eleven...

2009-03-17T21:19:00.008-04:00

I have rando taste in music - like with most aspects of my life I am an 'equal opportunity employer', but have a very low tolerance for country. I almost always have something on. I need the background noise. This habit also helps feed my mind's insatiable appetite for lyrics. If this portion of my brain held astrophysics instead, my life would be completely different today. Little known fact, every blog post I write, with the exception of hump day, is a song lyric that relates to the thought.

So, yesterday a friend asked if I had any new suggestions to update her ipod workout mix, the only requirement was that it was upbeat and something I was really feeling lately. Here is what I could suggest.

N.A.S.A - The Spirit of Apollo

North America South America. Two djs making bonkers remixes. It makes me think of that Friends episode where Rachel makes a dessert trifle with hamburger and Joey still eats it. 'What's not to love? Custard, good. Cake, good. Beef, good.'

The Virgins - The Virgins

This has been around for a while, but only recently, I can't seem to get enough of it. It makes me want the summer to be here already. Maybe if I listen to it enough it will finally get warm.

And the other songs I thought of were throwbacks to my middle school days...

ABY - One Way Love

Club Nouveau - Rumors

Whitney Houston - How Will I Know

Anything else that I should pass on to her? xx

I sit and wonder - where, where are you now?

2009-03-11T23:02:00.005-04:00

Thinking of Spring, my mind is bombarded by editorials of ripped jeans featuring everything from Balmain to Levi's. And then I think of my original pre-teen crush wearing ripped jeans. And I am definitely talking pre-Jordan Catalano.

There used to be a show on Nickelodeon called 'Clarissa Explains It All', that combined a sassy female lead with kooky costumes (Clarissa), a dorky younger brother (Ferguson) and a cool best dude friend (Sam). Sam was the funny boy next door, but a little edgy and definitely was crush-worthy back in 1991.

Curious to see how Sam grew up, I went on IMDB and was shocked by the transition. So shocked, I don't even know how to wrap this up. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-03-11T22:18:00.003-04:00

Equal parts sarcastic, intelligent, cheesy leather jacket, well-traveled and outspoken New Yorker served up in a tall glass. What's not to love? Anthony Bourdain is this week's hump day crush. Something about his willingness to travel the world and taste every and anything, drink and get drunk enthusiastically, laugh and just enjoy the good things in life (and make fun of the bad) makes you want him by your side when indulging in the everyday. The earring, muscle tees and leather jackets somehow are all forgivable and maybe even contribute to the hotness, definitely no small feat. xx

D-d-droppin' science, droppin' history, with a whole heap of style and intelligence-y...

2009-03-10T23:14:00.004-04:00

I love setting mini-challenges for myself. It seems to keep me busy and fill my need for competing against myself, while also trying to improve various aspects of my life (originally developed by swimming competitively for 14 yrs).

Some have been serious - like bringing lunch at least 3x a week - and some have been totally frivolous - like my March mini-goal of trying to wear high heels to work everyday.

The weather really hasn't cooperated with me this March, (I don't believe in the 'commuter shoe change') so I created a new one. For every 'fun' book I read, I am going to read an 'American Classic'. In high school, I opted out of American Lit (the teacher's nickname was Frankenstein) and in college, I placed out of English, so I want to know if I missed out on some good stuff.

First on deck in the American Classic series is Sylvia Plath's 'The Bell Jar', which I have been meaning to read for many years. The book is supposed to be a chronicle of Plath's descent into insanity - so far I am 70 pages in and main character Esther seems pretty normal to me. What does that say? Uh-oh. xx

What goes around goes around goes around comes all the way back around...

2009-03-09T19:50:00.002-04:00

So on my trek home on an 'R' train, I look up and what do I see? The infamous sticker.

But not in the usual place - over some poor fool's face who was playing the guitar in an ad for Aruba, the friendly isle. Someone out there is hip to this game - and I want to get to the bottom of it! xx

Should I give up or just keep chasing pavements, even if it leads nowhere?

2009-03-08T20:16:00.005-04:00

I am currently reading 'Lush Life' by Richard Price, the author behind 'Clockers' and a co-writer on "The Wire". Set on the Lower East Side, the book sucked me in with the complex characters, smooth dialogue and a vivid mental image of the current scenery, players and culture in the LES. When I walk past 27 Eldridge and eat at Schillers, I will always think of Eric Cash, et al. If you are looking for a good read, go and pick this up. xx

There ain't no better reason to rid yourself of vanities and just go with the season...

2009-03-08T19:39:00.005-04:00

Spring Forward. Fall 09 runways have been fire, but with the moving forward of our clocks, I want to take the time to look back at a few pieces from past seasons that I have really been feeling recently.

Balenciaga Fall 2004, looks really right now in 2009 (photo from jak and jil)
Junya Watanabe Fall 2006. Am seriously loving this utilitarian cape.

But I have an issue with vintage - I can appreciate looking at it, but just get the willies putting on the clothes of someone I don't know. Something about the smell that never comes out, no matter how many times you dry clean it and the unknown backstory (was it someone's unlucky dress/did someone get sick in it?) combine to make it really undesirable for me.

So for now, I will cross my fingers that there is some miraculous deadstock somewhere I happen upon, or more likely just drool over the pics and promise myself not to sleep on future classics. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-03-04T22:17:00.009-05:00

Fur. I said it. Fur, is my hump day crush. This coming Fall 09, whether for fashion, luxury, or armor against the elements, there are some bonkers options out there and I am seriously loving them all.

When it is dyed pink (ala Balenciaga's pre-Fall 09),

king kong sleeves/gloves (Marni Fall 09, Balenciaga pre-Fall 09),

used casually in a dress (Prada Fall 09),

or just something utilitarian and warm (Marni Fall 09)...

Better start saving pronto. xx

Happy Girls' Day!

2009-03-03T20:53:00.006-05:00

On March 3rd, Japanese people celebrate hinamatsuri or 'girl's day', celebrating girls and praying for their health and happiness. When I was little, every year I would look forward to setting up the traditional dolls on the tall table in our dining room (just a version of the top tier in this picture). My favorite part was - let's be real - something untraditional - blowing on the spinning lantern lamps to see how fast I could get the colors to change. I would place little snacks and candies on the altar as an offering and would always wonder whether there would be the some missing the next day...and the boys in school would carry the girls' books around which was a true luxury. So be sure to celebrate and treat the girls in your life special today! xx

You're a pal and a confidante...and a muse?

2009-03-02T20:54:00.014-05:00

Dorothy Zbornak. Ahead of her time? While watching an all day 'Golden Girls' marathon on Sunday, there was more than one instance where I caught myself wanting Dorothy's outfit. Something about the sequins, shoulder pads, and layering hit the right look and made me wonder if certain designers were feeling the same way.

I could picture this look being worked at Alexander Wang with some cut-offs.

Early inspiration for Steven Alan?

Graffiti printed dolman sleeve cardigan jacket - pre-cursor for a Sprouse x Marc Collabo?

Boho Layers pre-Olsen twins mania. What you can't see here is Dorothy's stone colored slouchy boots.

xx.

Hump Day Crush...broken internet edition

2009-03-02T20:37:00.006-05:00

The Outsiders. What's not to love - greasy toughs who enjoy sunsets and search for the meaning of Robert Frost? Count me in.

Patrick Swayze as Darry, the hot big brother/father figure, Matt Dillon as Dallas, the tortured hoodlum who would do anything for his gang, Rob Lowe as Sodapop, the pretty boy all the girls crush on, Tom Cruise pre-Oprah couch jumping madness, C. Thomas Howell as Ponyboy, the sensitive tough who was willing to love across gang lines, Ralph Macchio as Johnny, the reluctant hero who found meaning in life and, well, Emilio Estevez.

But as the poem goes - So Dawn Goes Down to Day, Nothing Gold Can Stay. xx

Simply put you're the reason why, even though I'm real shy...

2009-03-02T20:24:00.004-05:00

My internet has been down for the past week...which left me with some extra time on my hands. Literally. Inspired by the Fall 09 animal fever on the runways, I did my own version of the cheetah. A simple DIY, all you need is your favorite base color (I went with Chanel Kaleidoscope) and a black and white polish. Paint your base coat and let it dry. Next, take the white polish and paint random dots, then let dry. Last, paint black squiggles on the outside of the white dots - either on the sides, or the tops and bottoms of the white dots in groups of one or two. The key is mixing it up so it doesn't look so uniform. Roar! xx

"In fashion sometimes you play against the designer..."

2009-02-25T20:17:00.004-05:00

Ostrich feathers anyone? ...Yes. Oh yes Brenda Dickson. Perhaps not all of you are familiar with Brenda. Also known as Jill Foster Abbott in The Young and the Restless. Opulence is my go-to word for 2009 to play against the recession. And in this video there is no shortage. Gold Lame, major hair, costume jewelry or maybe just an enormous self-portrait. Brenda awakens my passion for being a woman. Maybe I should shed my daily head to toe black ensembles and try throwing on some red leather boots or a suede jacket? I probably won't, but anyhow here are some highlights of the video: Teleportation. Wire Hangers. Towel tucked into her laminate vanity. Brenda Dickson. You are my hump day crush. xo C.

2009-02-22T14:34:00.003-05:00

It's sunday and what else are you doing besides roaming around your apartment in your favorite skibbies, eating cereal, reading this blog and downloading new music off of itunes. So here's something to sink your teeth into. A perfect marriage of sounds. MGMT's "Electric Feel" remixed by Justice. A little back story for you. The MGMT are some brooklyn boys (yes, there actually is talent coming out of brooklyn) who have been tearing up the music scene with their sexy, digital, and as Spin magazine quotes "shape shifting" new sound. JUSTICE (pictured bottom) Gaspard Augé (left) and Xavier de Rosnay (right) are two tasty guys from Paris doing unreal new electronic beats. Both of these bands have individual equal love in my heart, and when I came across this remix...it just made so much sense. So check it out and enjoy dancing around in your skibbies to this unbelievable song. xo C

Drink the water, drink it down, this time I know I'm bound to spit it back up...

2009-02-19T22:01:00.006-05:00

Just had dinner with a friend and while we were chatting, we noticed the water she picked up was not your regular Poland Spring. Through trickery of clever shelving at Whole Foods, this was the only water offered in the refrigerated section accessible when standing in the checkout line. The label reads "This water has been programmed with music, crystals and prayer for good health, happiness, creative energy and prosperity." So many questions. Not enough time.

Tastes like a sham to me. xx

Can I kick it? (yes, you can)...

2009-02-18T23:00:00.011-05:00

Wow. I couldn't concentrate on the clothes while looking at Rodarte because of these puppies (style.com). And it is one of the few instances that I am digging the grey over the black version. Bondage hip high platform boots. I don't even know where to start. Love the tough chic element - plus the idea of all those straps, putting them on, taking them off, a little touch of crazy. Wow.

Amazing fantasy. But in reality? I own a pair of thigh high, gunmetal croc boots with a heel. They sound scarier than they look. I have worn them once, covered neck to toe with all black - jeans and long sleeve sweater to make sure no 'hooker' vibes were put out there. And when I did wear them, a friend leaned in and asked "what are those, made of T-Rex?"

I think I may prefer fantasy on this one. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-02-18T21:07:00.007-05:00

He keeps me company on late nights (or lazy weekend mornings through the genius that is DVR), makes me laugh and has some sick moves. Could you ask for anything more?

My hump day crush is Conan in NYC - there is something about a smart nerd who can make me laugh that has so much appeal. My favorite bit of all time was when Conan went shopping with Isaac Mizrahi. Isaac shopped for Conan at Barneys (suit and tie) and Conan chose an outfit from Kmart for Isaac (denim jacket with fake fleece hood/sleeve cuffs sewn in). It was amazing and I giggle just thinking of it now. I searched high and low but wasn't able to find this clip anywhere, probably locked in the vaults. But this one will do just fine.

I am hoping that he continues his string dance, 'year 2000' segments, 'ass' stamps and all around ridiculousness in LA. I hope this crush can carryover to Conan in LA. All I can say is his giant hair wave better survive the travels too...xx

2009-02-18T19:18:00.004-05:00

Just to add regarding Alexander Wang's fierce Fall show, I did find one thing rather uncanny. Top picture is model Trish Goff, sporting a hat and headdress. Pictured below model sports a hat and headdress...except below picture is from Jean Paul Gaultier Fall 2004 show. Was this a strange styling coincidence? Are we past this look? You be the judge.

No one on the corner got a pocket like this...

2009-02-17T20:33:00.007-05:00

After checking out NY Fall 09 to date, this is my favorite look of the week so far (Marc Jacobs, look 46, style.com). The accessories, the clothes, the attitude - she is definitely an expert in getting over yourself.

Would I ever wear this in reality? No. Me + Leather Pants = disaster. And charmeuse, forget it. Easily one of my least favorite fabrics to wear, second to leather for pants maybe. But, those pants wouldn't be as fabulous in another fabrication, the leg just wouldn't be the same. And the easy tee with extra low pocket is just simple fun, playing with the idea of matte and shine. But a girl can appreciate and dream. xx

Girl you know it's true

2009-02-17T20:18:00.005-05:00

Alexander Wang. There is something about his aesthetic that is so appealing - it blurs the line between tomboy and sexy seamlessly and provides an instant attitude. Each season there is something drool worthy that can easily be worked into a wardrobe. Fall 09 is no exception (black croc wrap jacket, textured leggings, graphic cut outs ala The Fifth Element). But there is one look that I just can't get my head around. The opening look, on style.com, above. The strong shoulder cardigan jacket captures the mood, but when paired with leggings and boots, I can't help but think of Milli Vanilli. Do I need to get over that thought? xx

Cut that Sh*t

2009-02-16T16:31:00.004-05:00

I noticed this lovely looking middle aged woman this morning...

Of course the longer you stare the more you notice and eventually find a flaw. Box heel square toed shoes. The girl next to her in vile Uggs. But that's not the offense!

As my eyes drifted down...there it was. An orange "X"

The giant cross stitch located on the back kickpleat which screams CUT ME before wearing. It's generally bright yellow, orange or red so that you know to cut it off. The utilitarian purpose for a "kick" pleat is so that you can walk. Leaving the string in defeats the entire purpose of the pleat. I have friends that have been guilty of this on various occasions (you know who you are.) After reading this, perhaps it will spread the word that it's not okay...ever.

Am I under arrest or should I guess some more?

2009-02-14T20:13:00.007-05:00

Take a good look at this picture. See anything odd? I am not talking about the enormous back vent, the vintage boots or the leather jacket. I am referring to a matching set of bracelets, a mass produced classic design connecting lady and child. Do you see the silver glint of metal between the right side of the woman and the left side of the child? That's right, I am talking about handcuffs. Today, while walking in NYC, a lady and child were walking down the street connected by handcuffs. I was completely baffled. Handcuffs. This is like 17x worse than the child leash.

And that's pretty low. xx

All I need in this life of sin, is me and my Birkin...

2009-02-11T23:04:00.006-05:00

The Birkin is the holy grail of handbags. Handcrafted by master artisans, it is the height of luxury with a hefty price tag and wait list to match. In my naive youth, I vowed to myself that I would purchase my own on my 30th birthday (black, pebbled grain, silver hardware, 35cm). I may have even nicknamed my ING savings account "the Birkin fund". I'm just saying.

So, of course I was drooling a bit when a woman walked on to my subway this morning with a matte crocodile Birkin in black. The skin was amazing and the texture was perfectly matched through all sections of her bag (no small feat...you get what you pay for). I saw her buckle her bag up, and caught a flash of the authenticity stamp as she laced her straps through the silver hardware. I could not believe her next move - she leaned down and rested it on the floor of the subway, in between her feet. In fact, I was so appalled, I was compelled to take out my phone and snap this picture. And we all know how I feel about taking pics on the subway.

I would like to just put it out there now, in a couple of years when I finally get my Birkin, I promise that I will never put it down on the subway floor, and definitely not next to a coffee cup that is rolling around with every jerk and move. If you ever catch me doing that, feel free to snatch it away since it deserves a better home. xx

Hump Day Crush

2009-02-11T08:30:00.001-05:00

MEN WITH PONYS...ponys I say! This hump day crush was inspired by a sighting in NYC at dinner the other night. You know who you are.

There is something about a man with a pony or long hair that is ridiculously hot. And I am not talking about balding dudes who are holding onto their 17 remaining strands for dear life. I am talking about the guys with luscious locks, who are masculine enough to rock something that is universally recognized as feminine, with no doubt on their masculinity. It takes effort to upkeep and some dedication to grow, which makes me feel that men with ponys may have attributes that men with short hair lack.

The new CKone ad captures long hair in 2009 - and I think it feels right for the first time since the emergence of grunge/heroin chic in the 90s.

And Troy Polamalu, forget it. The mass of curls seems to increase his talent on the field and the slick pony/bun increases his hotness off of it. Somebody get the man a Patene commercial.

Now if only I could test my theory...xx

Dark Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers

2009-02-10T23:22:00.005-05:00

This should be a staple in everyone's pantry. It's really the perfect treat. And it must must must be dark chocolate. Hold on I need to have one right now in order to describe it's perfection...Okay. It's complex. Sweet, crunchy, crumbly, with a slightly bitter finish. If you haven't had one...Get over yourself and try one. You'll like it. xC - Crush on this

I Heart Yohji

2009-02-10T22:03:00.003-05:00

There are a few things that I will never grow tired of. I won't mention the obvious (get your head out of the gutter.) Whether it's pouring over pages of books or magazines, any design freaks true love definitely packaging. It could be the most simplistic little envelope my grandfather carried in the 50's or a genius Prada cellophane/gauze t-shirt package collaboration with Basquiat (circa 2007).

Today was one of those days I walked in with purpose and walked out with unexpected joy.

Pictured is the new Y-3 packaging. It may look shy in the picture but this baby stands

20"H x 26"W. Free gift with purchase. I love you Yohji. You never disappoint.

manicure nails to set the pedicure off, she's fly effortlessly...

2009-02-10T21:28:00.004-05:00

I have loved nail polish since I figured out I had fingernails. Growing up, my uncle ran a major international cosmetics brand - he would bring my mom whitening cream and real make up on his visits and I would get a couple of new shades from the latest nail polish collection. Something about the way the lacquer captured color made me feel daring and grown up when painted on, always done with care by my Mom.

In high school, I was all about Hard Candy pastels, Urban Decay metallics and I eventually stepped my game up to Chanel, by way of Vamp and Metallic Vamp. Since then, I have accumulated a few more - favoring the silver, navy, black hues. (If you look carefully, you can spot the Metallic Vamp above) Mom is currently 1000s of miles away, so every once in a while I treat myself and bring my own polish to get my nails done at the shop across the street. I love dark nails for winter, especially four days in when the color starts chipping off a little...but I know I will be wanting something new for warmer days. Am going to start my hunt for Spring colors and am feeling a lighter purple or maybe neon green. Any thoughts? xx

what do you say me you and your chloe glasses, go somewhere private where we can discuss fashion...

2009-02-08T16:04:00.007-05:00

I have a confession to make. My closet is overflowing. Well, I should really say closets. There is one for shoes, one for pants/dresses, one for tops/jackets, and of course one for coats. Despite the overflow, I have a few favorite pieces in heavy rotation and some that never see the light of day. This is especially true of my coats.

I don't know what it is about coats, but I just love them. I am not sure if it stems from growing up in a place where coats were completely unnecessary or since in the winter, coats are a major statement piece people often see more than the real clothes you are wearing underneath.

That being said, I just got a new coat/jacket to add to the line-up. It is a brand new, custom letterman jacket (Made in the USA by TM Athletics) - I chose everything on it, down to the purple quilted lining. I love the idea behind something custom made - the specialness of it being crafted just for me. I busted it out for the first time the other day and have gotten love from some friends on it. It also drew a lot of random stares from people on the street and the subway. Not sure what that is all about but am thinking this will be in heavy rotation. (thanks LSO) xx

you've seen it all before, I know...

2009-02-05T22:47:00.005-05:00

I love people watching. And I have found that there is nowhere better to do this than a NYC subway. I have seen everything from a lady applying roll-on deodorant (why can't this wait until a bathroom?) to a man forgetting he had a cello strapped to his back (this ended poorly). But nothing has baffled me more than this. On multiple trains (C,E, N/R/W), in random cars both old and new, I have looked up and seen this sticker.

I have no idea what it is, if it is part of the train, or if there is some random dude sticking thermometer stickers on the ceiling of cars. I have made checking for these stickers part of my subway routine - and am always baffled by their lack of/presence. I am always weirded out by people taking pictures on the train, but decided to get over it and took these on two different morning commutes.

Has any one else noticed these? Or know what they are all about? Take a look on your train and let us know. xx

Nice To Meet You.

2009-02-03T21:36:00.001-05:00

Get Over Yourself.

Yes, you.

Stop the little voice in your head that's holding you back.

Try new things. Be bold. And laugh. Really loud.

And be sure to tell others to get over themselves too.

Yes, them.

Haters trying to knock you down and hold you back. You know who we're talking about.