Thursday, April 30, 2009

Total São Paulo: A Guide to the Unexpected


From hidden bars serving up $2.50 caipirinhas and tiny boutiques, to the best clubs and vintage markets, Total São Paulo: A Guide to the Unexpected is a must-have travel resource for discerning creative types traveling to one of the world’s most up-and-coming cities. Written by Phuong-Cac Nguyen, an American journalist who has been reporting and breathing São Paulo’s pop culture/lifestyle beat for years, this beautifully designed 176-page paperback guidebook packs in places off the beaten track in 10 essential neighborhoods. Sprinkled among the candid, gorgeously shot photographs are also 11 easy-to-read, illustrated maps and 17 interviews with São Paulo VIPs who give the inside scoop on the metropolis’ best spots.

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This truly is an awesome book--and a must read for anyone planning to travel to Brazil. It is full of fun and exciting places to go--including the hidden gems of São Paulo! And the guide is also such an easy and fun read- with maps, large photos, interviews and blurbs all throughout the book.

There is a book signing and release party next Saturday, May 9th! Check out the details below:

Saturday, May 9, 2009
3:00 - 7:00pm

Los Angeles book signing with author Phuong-Cac Nguyen & launch party for
Total São Paulo: A Guide to the Unexpected

Carmichael Gallery of Contemporary Art
1257 N. La Brea Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90038
323-969-0600 - www.carmichaelgallery.com

Join the author for complimentary caipirinhas provided by Leblon Cachaça, music and other surprises while enjoying the art of talented Brazilian artist Thais Beltrame.

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Links à la Mode : April 30th

Links à la Mode : April 30th

  • 39th & Broadway - Is the fashion industry responsible for our weight issues?
  • A Typical Atypical - When to ignore the fashion houses - the ridiculous, the impractical and the downright foolish!
  • Broke & Beautiful - Earth Week! The best of plastic bags are highlighted.
  • Capitola Girl Jewelry Blog - Take flight with some fanciful feathered jewelry
  • Culturistas - The Culturistas take a trip to the Vintage Expo and give tips on how to shop for vintage
  • Debutante Clothing - A private, curator led tour of the Valentina exhibit in NYC
  • Dirty Laundry - Who needs Marc Jacobs when you have DIY?
  • Dramatis Personae - B&Lu Presents Fun Plus-Sized Fashion…
  • Fashion in my eyes - Interview with Sarah Korsiak Cellier, owner of a vintage shop with designer pieces
  • FashionMind - Dressing up classy but very bright and not boring.
  • Fasshonaburu - A public request for online stores to provide more and better pictures of their merchandise!
  • Gladys L - Construction boots or Lotus shoes? The astonishing Chinese quest for female beauty incorporating small feet!
  • In Pursuit of Fashion - Bleach for beginners: How to DIY the latest trend, bleached jeans.
  • Independent Fashion Bloggers - 6 Do’s and Don’ts for Networking Online
  • Retro Chick - Ethical Design Spotlight - Heart’s Desire Jewellery (+ 20% Discount!)
  • Style Symmetry - My Storage System for Belts.
  • StyleCovered - How fusing trends and culture can create something unique and chic! Who said covering up had to be boring?
  • The Art of Accessories - The Art of Accessories show you how to make your own tinted moisturizer, how thrifty?
  • THE COVETED - The Coveted: Two chances to win Pequito Bun Vintage Jewelry!
  • The Curvy Fashionista - The brains behind Full Figure Fashion Week- Gwen DeVoe dares to bring Plus Size Fashion to the forefront
  • The Style PA - Where to go in Leeds for Vintage fashion and beauty treats.
  • Work Chic - Blowing your shopping budget? It may be your shopping habits!

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Wednesday, April 29, 2009

American Boutiques LA: The Recessionista Paradise


Starting today fashion co-op, American Boutiques LA is having "Fashion Lab Wednesdays." You pay $5 admission, bring a bag of clothing you are sick of and swap with other shoppers. But the awesome added bonus is the "DIY Workshops" where you can learn how to transform your new finds into your own creations---with the help of lab technicians AND equipment. So check it out Culturistas--- starting today at 5pm-8pm.

American Boutiques LA
3501 West Burbank Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91505
818.563.4230

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Fab Find of the week: Zippered and Studded Heels


Fab Find of the week: Zipper Trim Patent Pumps, $28.80 from Forever 21
Shop the shoes here!

Zippers, Studs, Super high heels, a thick platform for added comfort, and fancy new logo...all for $28.80!! Whats not to love?


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Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Red Mango Delicious

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The Culturista's are already big fans of Red Mango so there is no excuse not to stop by Saturday May 2nd where they are giving away a free small cup of Tangomonium [with one topping] to celebrate the release of the new flavor!

Stop by between 12pm and 4pm at participating Red Mango stores nationwide.

Tangomonium offers a light and refreshing flavor with notes of fruit and citrus. "Tangomonium not only satisfies taste buds and rejuvenates the mind, but it is also good for the body. Like Red Mango's other frozen yogurt flavors, Tangomonium is 100% all natural, contains no artificial ingredients, is nonfat, and gluten free. It is also a good source of calcium, and full of probiotic live and active cultures."- Dan Kim, founder, president & CEO of Red Mango, Inc.

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Monday, April 27, 2009

Summer 2009: Skirts galore!

Things are starting to heat up and that means it is time to switch up your wardrobe and put away your winter gear. Au revoir boots, tights, and down jackets. It is time to break out the sandals and start wearing skirts! The full mini skirt is a hot commodity and a great option because it is both flattering and comfortable. This summer it will definitely make it's mark.

BCBG Max Azria silk sirt $218


For a cheaper alternative, you can find several full minis at places like Forever 21, H&M, and Urban Outfitters. For a daytime look, trying pairing a full mini with a with a fitted top tucked in and a pair of flats. If you want to wear it in the evening just switch up your accessories and put on a pair of wedges.


BDG knit skirt $38


This weekend, I will head on over to H&M and put on the frills!

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Manuvering the Vintage Expo: Tips on Vintage Shopping

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Maneuvering the Vintage Expo, or vintage stores for that matter, can be a little tricky if you arent prepared! Here are some Culturista Tips to help you out!

Know your Measurements! If you are planning to do some clothes shopping you need to know your own measurements since you can't go by the sizes marked on the labels. Sizes have changed throughout the years and a 1960's size 12 is probably more like a size 6 by today's standards. In some stores they have convenient dressing rooms for you to try things on- but at the Vintage expo they are few and far between. On that note--

Dress in Layers: If you wear a pair of tights and a tank underneath your clothes- you would be able to try things on right there and then- You might not have access to a dressing room- so this is the best plan.

Familiarize yourself with designers: Know the names--- Yves Saint Laurent, Halston, Elsa Schiaparelli, Diane Von Furstenberg, Mary Quant etc. That way if you've found a designer item for a good price you are getting a good deal (and it might even become a collectors item). The blue and red floral scarf above was Oscar de la Renta and I got it for 3 dollars!!

Go Larger: If you cant find the exact fit for your body- get it larger- since you can always alter it to become more fitted. You wont have that option with smaller sizes.

Know what you can fix: You want to look for the pieces that are still in good shape- but if you find something that needs a bit of fixing look for open hems, ripped seams, a broken zipper or a loose button- because those things can be fixed. Don't buy anything where the fabric has holes or bad stains in it- because that just means the piece is deteriorating.

Look for Crowds: Where you see a lot of shoppers- there are probably some really good deals going on. That bracelet and necklace above is my case in point. I got those two pieces for $13 because the lady in charge of the booth was giving out extra discounts to get rid of the merchandise.

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Sunday, April 26, 2009

Stylist Inspiration: A Going out look

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Sleeveless Sequined Tuxedo: 3.1 Phillip Lim, $850
Lame Matte Black Leggings: American Apparel, $42
Robot 120 Ankle Boots: Christian Louboutin, $1295
Lacquered Petal Earrings, Forever 21, $3.80
Glass Pearl Necklace, Yves Saint Laurent, $1,495
Chanel Handbag

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Saturday, April 25, 2009

Jet Rag $1 Sale

$1 sale on Sunday at Jet Rag

Jet Rag--one of LA's best vintage stores has a 1 dollar sale every Sunday! Starting at 9am there are huge piles of clothes sitting in their parking lot for people to buy. EVERYTHING (except the leather jacket rack) is 1 dollar. So be prepared to dig- and deal with some crowds-but walk away with gold treasure!

Know before you go: Snag a spot on the street (free parking at meters on Sunday) and their parking lot is quite occupied with all those clothes.
Those laundry carts aren't more clothes for you to dig through- those are pieces that have been claimed by shoppers/stylists/designers/buyers (who buy in CRAZY bulk).
Dress comfortable and don't wear anything nice if you plan to dig through piles of clothing on the ground.

Jet Rag
825 N La Brea Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90038
(323) 939-0528

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Friday, April 24, 2009

Look of the week: Chloë Sevigny

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Chloë Sevigny co-hosted the Chloe Boutique opening party in Los Angeles last night at Milk Studios in Hollywood. She was all decked out in Chloe Spring/Summer 2009 collection of course! She wore a cropped top with cut out, scalloped shorts, scalloped suit jacket, navy clutch and the adorable Percy Sandals with bow detailing. I love Chloë's style and she looked so fashion forward and fab in this ensemble last night!

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What to do this weekend: LA Edition


The Indian Film Festival is continuing through the weekend. The films are being screened at the Arc Light in Hollywood and you can purchase general admission tickets there for $12 or online at: Arclightcinemas.com. Saturday and Sunday's screenings are all short films starting at 1:00pm. This is a great chance to see the films of India- and get a better appreciation for them.

Tonight at 9:30 full length film "Virasat" will be screening- which stars Anil Kapoor (Slumdog Millionaire).



The Vintage Fashion Expo is also going on this Saturday and Sunday. Shopping hours at the Expos run from 10:30 am to 6 pm on Saturdays and from 11 am to 5 pm on Sundays. Admission is $10. An Early Buying session runs from 9 to 10:30 am on Saturday and carries a $20 admission. Free Sunday return for all admissions.

Each show features about 90 dealers from 8-10 different states. These exhibitors bring us the very best of vintage clothes; couture designer items; accessories like purses, hats, gloves, and shoes; and fantastic selections of jewelry. And you might even run into some stylish celebs or celebrity stylists.
Go to the website for coupons on tickets as well as driving directions: Vintageexpo.com

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Neiman Marcus Last Call opens


The Neiman Marcus "Last Call" opened yesterday in Camarillo. Great deals can be found at this store- if you are willing to dig around. The outlet carries apparel and accessories by high end designers such as Diane Von Furstenberg, Chanel, Marc Jacobs, YSL, Christian Louboutin etc- but at extremely discounted prices! The Culturistas definately love a discount in this recession! Don't forget to check out "Last Call" before the 27th so you can take advantage of the extra 20% off!

Camarillo Premium Outlets
600 Ventura Blvd.
Camarillo, California 93010

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Thursday, April 23, 2009

Depeche Mode Concert LA

If you love concerts but just cant afford the price tag these days---check out Depeche Mode in a Los Angeles outdoor concert for FREE.

Starting tonight at 11pm to Friday at 6am Hollywood Boulevard and Vine will be closed for a Depeche Mode concert. 10,000 people are expected to show, 7,000 of who already have tickets. BUT you don't need them to see the show! -- just to get closer to the stage. The concert starts tonight at 8! So check it out!

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Links a la Mode

Links à la Mode : April 23rd
  • 39th & Broadway: Even fashion designers can get scared of a new and forward trend.
  • Agent Dreamer: An interview with Rachel Lanese of Crafttastrophe – designer of beautiful shoes and other wearable art.
  • Agent Lover: Hunting for the perfect retro bathing suit, part two.
  • Breakfast at Saks: A review of independent designer retailer, Moxsie and Itsola dress.
  • Broke & Beautiful: Miss Elle experiences amazing handmade jewelry in a video post!
  • Consume or Consumed: Review and hypothetically shopping at Net-A-Porter’s sister sale site: The Outnet
  • Culturistas: Update your wardrobe for Spring using the clothes you already have!
  • Dirty Laundry: How to wear Maison Martin Margiela without breaking the bank via DIY alternatives.
  • Fashion Pulse Daily: Perry Ellis surprises with a fall line-up of classics that with please your Dad and your hottie 20-something boyfriend simultaneously!
  • Felicia Sullivan: eco-friendly fashion on a budget: toggery by kate d’arcy.
  • Haute World: An inside look to the ever famous Louis Vuitton flagship store in Paris.
  • Hello Kelli: New Japanese technology creates a loose wave digital perm.
  • Independent Fashion Bloggers: Starting your own blog? IFB helps find the right blog platform for you.
  • LuciteBox: HBO’s Grey Gardens – beyond the fashionable women.
  • Retro Chick: Celebrating one year blog birthday with a reader goodie bag giveaway.
  • Star Fashion Addict: A roundup of the hottest handbag styles for spring.
  • Style Symmetry: Inspiration Flashback – a look back at Little House on the Prairie.
  • Super Kawaii Mama: Luxe & Less - Pick me up’s for next to nothing.
  • The Coveted: Basic Investing, is it better to invest in basics or statement pieces?
  • The Curvy Fashionista: Interview with plus size high fashion designer, Monif C - breaking all plus size stigmas.
  • The Demoiselles: The Littlest Demoiselle discusses ANTM’s Short Model Season, and “under height” models of the p
  • The Sunday Best: Why Club Monaco should bring back the crewneck.

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Wednesday, April 22, 2009

RUDY'S BAR: A RECESSIONSTA FAVORITE



Rudy's Bar, located in the heart of Hell's Kitchen is a kitschy dive that is a host to a diverse clientele. The crowd all has one thing in common: they are down for the free hot dogs! For each cheap brew bought, you are given a free hot dog. With a jukebox and red plastic stools and booths, Rudy's has an old time American feel. However, do not mistake this for meaning that it is sleepy, because the crowd is vibrant and energetic. When the weather is warm, they open up the back terrace which is filled with picnic tables. The next time you are looking for an affordable place to go and want to explore a location other than the Lower East Side, check out Rudy's! At this place $10 will take you further than you could imagine!

Rudy's Bar
627 Ninth Ave at 44th St.
New York, NY 10036

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Matthew Williamson for H&M- Debut is tomorrow!


Matthew Williamson is the latest designer who has been commissioned to do a special summer collection for H&M. With an eye for unique prints, Williamson's collection is bold, edgy, and flavorful. Get ready, because tomorrow 4/23/09, select H&M stores will open their doors for you check out the new collection.


He first emerged as a fashion designer in the late 90s in London as has picked up quite a following since. Celebrities such as Lindsey Lohan, Sienna Miller, and Kate Hudson.


In mid-May, H&M will be the premiere location to have Williamson's first ever collection designed for men as well. Ladies...and gents, get ready to be wowed. While the price point is a bit higher than traditional H&M pieces, but if you are in the market to purchase a timeless piece, it will be well worth it. If you are close to an H&M go check it out tomorrow, 4/23/09. Just be careful not to get lost in the the crowds!

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Bathing Suit Trends 09: Part 3

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From the top left
Beaded cutout swimsuit: Tara Matthews, $340.00
Embellished one piece: Carmen Marc Valvo, $198.00
Bejeweled String Bikini: Tara Matthews, $400.00
Jewel trim bikini: Victoria's Secret, $48 and $46
Embellished bikini: Victoria's Secret, $48 and $20

Embellished bathing suits are a huge trend for Spring/Summer 2009. Any silhouette can be embellished- which makes finding your most flattering suit a breeze!

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Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Bathing Suit Trends 09: Part 2

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From the top left
Halter tankini with front drape: Badgley Mischka, 179.00
Strapless blouson swimsuit: Marc by Marc Jacobs, 179.00
Bandeau top with skirt: Carmen Marc Valvo, 159.00
Ruched strapless dress swimsuit: Juicy Couture, 160.00
Tiered tankini swimsuit: Juicy Couture, 182.00

For Spring/Summer 2009 designers have come out with tons of new silhouettes. We have the swim skirt and dress as well as bathing suit tops that can look like your street clothes. So we have a whole new way to layer our swimsuit look. Throw a pair of shorts with a tiered or strapless bathing suit top. Or wear a sheer tunic over a bandeau top and skirt swimsuit.

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Monday, April 20, 2009

Bloomingdales online- 20% off!



Major discount if you shop on the Bloomingdales website. Just enter the promotional code SPRINGFF and you will get 20% off your order!

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Crown Bar: Why the Culturistas love it


I first fell in love with Crown Bar last summer after it first opened. I found myself there multiple weekends in a row and each time I had a blast. Not only did I like it, but several friends with a diverse taste in nightlife enjoyed it just as much. There was a great mix of people and a dj that actually played our requests. While the venue is not large, it was also just crowded enough but not so much that it was impossible to move.

Last weekend when I returned to LA, I decided I would try my luck 10 months later. To my surprise, it was the same! It was like nothing had changed. The best part was that unlike the summer there was no line to get in. Same crowd, same feel, same fun! A good mix of dancin,shmoozin, and boozin. If you are in LA and wondering what to do you should check it Crown bar!

Crown Bar
7321 Santa Monica Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90046

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The Getty Villa

The Getty Villa

The Getty Villa is a gorgeous museum in Malibu that houses J. Paul Getty's collection of ancient works. There are approximately 44,000 Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities, including sculptures, vases and gorgeous jewels. Also impressive is the architecture which was constructed to re-create a first century Roman country house, the Villa dei Papiri. So don't forget to take a walk around the grounds. There are apparently 300 different plants throughout the gardens. It is easy to get overwhellmed with the extensive collection of art- so you can
enhance your visit with a GettyGuide audio player, available for $5 at the Pick-Up Desk on Floor 1 of the Museum. The player features insightful commentary from curators and conservators on over 150 works of art in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Villa and in special exhibitions.

The Getty Villa is a must see-- plus tickets are free- so there is no excuse!

Greek, Egypt, 300 - 100 B.C.
Gold and glass

Admission
Admission to the Getty Villa and to all exhibitions is FREE. An advance, timed ticket is required for each adult. And parking costs $10.

Get your tickets and find out more about the museum here: www.getty.edu

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Bathing Suit Trends 09: Part 1

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Starting with top left (clockwise)
Tie Dye: Vix, $148.00
Geometric: Trina Turk, $146.00
Floral: Lucky, $102.00
Plaid: Burberry, $240.00
Ikat: Forever 21, $25.60

There are tons of popular prints this season for us to choose from. Go for plaid if you are feeling preppy, ikat if you want to be exotic or floral if you are going for a sweet look. Bikinis are also fun to mix and match! Wear a printed top with a solid color bottom or vice versa. And if you are feeling really daring- mix and match different patterns!

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Sunday, April 19, 2009

Spring fashion Inspiration

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Philip Crangi necklace: $1,670
Fendi Strappy platform sandals: $705.00
Marc by Marc Jacobs cotton trench coat: $530.00
D&G Dolce & Gabbana Silk-blend shorts: 386 euros
Lanvin crystal cuff: $1390.00
Vila Ruffle Shirt: 25 pounds

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Friday, April 17, 2009

The Jazz Bakery

The Jazz Bakery is LA's only 7 nights a week, non-profit Jazz venue. So if you are a Jazz fan, a music lover or just want to try something new- this is a great place to go!

This weekend check out:

LIONEL LOUEKE TRIO

LIONEL LOUEKE TRIO

Massimo Biolcati -bass
Ferenc Nemeth -drums

West African guitarist-vocalist Loueke makes music that is haunting, joyous, undeniably beautiful and absolutely indescribable: "A startlingly original voice", "Spellbinding" (NY Times)

Buy your tickets:Here

While you might end up paying $30 a ticket, this isn't one of those clubs that has drink minimums, expensive parking lots, or pretentious attitudes. They also have an art gallery at the Jazz Bakery. So enjoy some tea, drinks, pastries and fine art before you listen to some great Jazz.
Plus--students: don't forget your IDs- they have a great student discount for those under 21.

The Jazz Bakery
3233 Helms Ave.
Culver City, CA 90034

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Look of the week: Drew Barrymore

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Drew Barrymore walked the red carpet of her LA premiere of "Grey Gardens" looking gorgeous in this long white gown with statement jewelry detail. She accessorized with very colorful accents- purple shoes, green earings and ring and a blue bracelet. She looks perfect for Spring and Summer 09!
The Culturista's give her an A+

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Thursday, April 16, 2009

NY: This weekend


This Saturday the weather forecast is 70 degrees and there are several day and night activities you can participate in that are recession friendly.

Friday 4/17/09:

Down and Derby Roller Disco at Studio B in Greenpoint. Get your roll on. $5 cover RSVP

Saturday 4/18/09:

Collect LES Crawl 09 at multiple venues in the Lower East Side. For $15, you are guaranteed entry into several galleries and provided complimentary beverages.

4th Annual Coffee & Tea Festival. Metropolitan Pavillion at 125 W. 18th St. Starts at 10 AM and continues through the weekend.

Sunday 4/19/09:

Times Square Spring Block Party. 45th st and 6th ave. 12 PM. Come walk around and enjoy the street vendors for FREE.

You can also have a picnic in the park of your choice or go hang out and get hot dogs. Summer is coming...i can tell.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg! Have a great weekend Culturistas!

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Happy Hours we love: McCormick & Schmick's

All of the food at McCormick's [during Happy Hour] ranges from 1.95 to 4.95!! You can't beat those prices unless you plan on eating at McDonalds. But even those the prices are cheap--the portions are huge and the quality of the food is great! Happy hour is from 4-6:30. The downtown LA location is always fun and busy---so be prepared to scout out tables if you come with a group. Here are the general foods they offer during happy hour (though it can change depending on the location).

$1.95

Shrimp Ceviche
In Citrus Marinade

Blackened Chicken Sandwich

Cheddar Cheese and French Fries

$2.95

Classic Cheeseburger
with Fries

$3.95

Ahi Tuna Roll

Calamari

Potato Skins

$4.95

Fish Tacos
Salsa Fresca and Sour Cream
Kobe Beef Sliders
Cheddar and Caramelized Onions
Fried Shrimp
Cocktail Sauce and French Fries

They also have discounted Martinis and 2.50 beers.

Click here to see McCormicks locations (there are tons across the WHOLE country!): McormickandSchmicks.com

Click Here to see more of the Culturista's favorite happy hours!

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The Outnet goes live today


TheOutnet.com launches today!! And go check it out today- because there are some good deals! A Zac Posen bag originally priced at $1,295 is now $259 (80% off!!), a pair of Alexander McQueen heels marked down from $1,605 to $321 and a Matthew Williamson dress marked down from $1,982 to $396. TheOutnet will also have 72 hour pop up sales which is the latest rage these days. And there is even a dress me section, which gives you outfit suggestions based on a certain trend or event.

Stephanie Phair, Director, theOutnet.com says: “This is a new adventure in online outlet shopping and we have been delighted with the response to theOutnet.com so far. It’s only the beginning - our calendar of activity for the next six months is packed with weekly product launches, exciting events and the very best of previous seasons’ collections. With our fashion forward approach, edited selection and chic format we will continue to provide savvy shoppers with something new at a great price.”

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Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Update your wardrobe for Spring 2009!


Sick of and uninspired by your clothes?
Well here is a way to reuse what's already in your closet with some styling modifications to keep you on trend for Spring 2009! And the good news is: you probably already have most of these items in your closet! So check out the photos below for some fashion inspiration!



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Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Madonna=the new face for Louis Vuitton?


Little bees are buzzing all around that Madonna is going to be the face of the Louis Vuitton campaign for fall 2009. We all know that Madge is in killer shape and has a propensity to try and not show any visible signs of aging and continuously embody sexuality. While she looks physically amazing in this ad, I just wonder when enough is enough? Is it still ok for Madonna who is in her early 50s to be so blatantly sexual? I am not quite sure where Louis Vuitton is going with this but if it actually happens I am curious to find out. What do you think...cultured or vultured?

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Join us!



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    Trend to love: Peacock Feathers!

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    Of course us Culturistas are big fans of the Peacock feather motif---but now in stores, we have been seeing them on purses to necklaces to dresses. So check out these great finds from Top Shop, H&M, and Forever 21.

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    Breakfast in Beverly Hills

    Breakfast in Beverly Hills is a month long event full of dining specials, shopping deals, live music and even charity. To check out the stores and restaurants that are participating click here:Breakfastinbh.com

    Probably the coolest event is on Saturday from 11am to 4pm. On Villa Rodeo (the cobblestoned steet) there are cooking lessons from the executive chefs at these Beverly Hills restaurants:

    208 Rodeo
    blue on blue at the Avalon Hotel
    BondSt at the Thompson Beverly Hills
    Lawry’s The Prime Rib Beverly Hills
    McCormick & Schmick’s A Pacific Seafood Grill
    The Grill on the Alley
    Il Fornaio
    Tanzore
    Crustacean
    e. baldi
    The Blvd at Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

    Don't forget to bring canned goods to this event! Breakfast in Beverly Hills has partnered with LA Regional Food Bank to collect canned goods and non-perishable food items.

    Here is the schedule for this Saturday and Sunday:

    Saturday, April 18

    10 am - 11 am
    Balloon artist at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.
    Solo guitarist at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way

    10 am - 1 pm
    Close-up magic at S. Beverly Dr. & Charleville Blvd.
    String trio at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.

    11 am - 12 pm
    Balloon artist at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica
    Solo guitarist at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.

    11 am - 4 pm
    Cooking demos and live music at Two Rodeo Drive

    12 pm - 1 pm
    Balloon artist at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way
    Solo guitarist at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica

    1 pm - 2 pm
    Close-up magic at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica
    Stilt walker at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way
    Guitar and clarinet/sax duo at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.

    1 pm - 4 pm
    Brass quartet at S. Beverly Dr. & Charleville Blvd.

    2 pm - 3 pm
    Close-up magic at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way
    Stilt walker at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.
    Guitar and clarinet/sax duo at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica

    3 pm - 4 pm
    Close-up magic at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.
    Stilt walker at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica
    Guitar and clarinet/sax duo at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way

    Sunday, April 19

    10 am - 11 am
    Close-up magic at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica
    Solo guitarist at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way
    Brass quartet at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.

    10 am - 1 pm
    Balloon artist at S. Beverly Dr. & Charleville Blvd.

    11 am - 12 pm
    Close-up magic at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way
    Solo guitarist at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.
    Brass quartet at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica

    12 pm - 1 pm
    Close-up magic at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.
    Solo guitarist at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica
    Brass quartet at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way

    1 pm - 2 pm
    Close-up magic at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way
    Stilt walker at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica
    Jazz trio at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.

    1 pm - 4 pm
    Solo guitarist at S. Beverly Dr. & Charleville Blvd.

    2 pm - 3 pm
    Close-up magic at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.
    Stilt walker at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way
    Jazz trio at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica

    3 pm - 4 pm
    Close-up magic at N. Rodeo Dr. & Little Santa Monica
    Stilt walker at N. Beverly Dr. & Santa Monica Blvd.
    Jazz trio at N. Canon Dr. & Brighton Way

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    Monday, April 13, 2009

    PUT A RING ON IT


    I wandered into Forever 21 this weekend sans any intent of buying anything. I was strictly there for "research" purposes was planning on steering clear of making any purchases. This plan failed as soon as i started browsing the accessories. I suddenly looked like a little girl in her mom's closet wearing 5 rings, 4 necklaces, and pretty much anything i could get my hands on. As soon as i saw this colorful mountain of bling my heart was sold. After spending $6.80 this shining beauty was mine. If you love it as much as I do you can check your local Forever 21 or click on the link below.


    It's just like Beyonce says...

    If you liked it then you should have put a ring on it!

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    Lust and Must of the week



    There is no doubt the Gucci bag is gorgeous real leather and suede, a fine attention to detail and will last you a long time. But if you can't afford the designer bag why not buy a look a like?

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    Restaurant Profile: Acqua Al 2

    From Culturistas
    In the Gaslamp district of San Diego, there is an Italian restaurant called Acqua Al 2 (awk-wa all doo-eh). I first tried Acqua Al 2 while I lived in Florence in 2005. Turned out they had a sister restaurant in San Diego and [no joke] it is the primary reason why we visit San Diego. They serve a pasta sampler and a steak sampler that is to die for. When you get a "sampler" you are served smaller portions of a few dishes. So if you like to try a lot of different dishes this is the best thing on the menu! Their balsamic steak is amazing--and they have a blueberry steak which is quite intriguing. Also amazing is that the food tastes exactly the same in Florence as it does in San Diego. Owner of the San Diego location, Martin Gonzalez had the chefs from the Florence location train his chefs, which makes for some great authentic Italian food :)



    Although Acqua isnt exactly recession friendly-- it is a great place to go for a special occasion.

    Acqua Al 2
    322 5th Avenue
    San Diego, Ca 92101
    619-230-0382

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    Sunday, April 12, 2009

    Look of the week: Katy Perry


    It's no secret that we are into Katy Perry's style. She channels old fashion pin-ups, she's not afraid to take a risk--and always looks great! This week she attended Paper Magazine's Beautiful People Party in NYC and she is wearing one of Matthew Williamson's dresses for H&M. So all of us Culturistas can achieve her look without breaking the bank! She accessorized with a metallic pink lip clutch, opaque tights and peep toe heels. Katy looks chic but with her personal flair for style showing through. Not to mention we LOVE the peacock feathers :)

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