Friday, May 29, 2009

Five Four Warehouse Sale: Los Angeles


Jazz up your wardrobe for Spring/Summer 09 boys! Check out the Five Four warehouse sale this Saturday and Sunday for 50-70% off retail prices! We sure love that. And you'll come out looking so preppy...love that too.

Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st, 9am-6pm
1430 East Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90021

Cash & Credit Card Accepted, All Sales Final

Read More...

Chic and Cheap finds of the week!

Photobucket

Forev's has really taken it up a notch with their jewelry this season. You know we already love their rings - and now they have made some nice statement necklaces for REALLLLY CHEAP prices! Shop the statement necklace trend here: Forever21.com

Read More...

Genart presents: SHOP NYC!



Genart is inviting you to the ultimate shopping event! Next Wednesday 6/3/09 at 6:00 PM in the heart of Midtown you will have a ton of exciting activities at this party. There will be a large selection of heavily discounted designer collections from the Spring/Summer season, including womenswear, menswear, and accessories. There will also be complimentary drinks, spa and beauty treatments, and other fun perks. General admission tickets are $15 and there is also an option for a VIP ticket. For more information click on Genart event.

Shop NYC
7W
7 West 34th Street, 11th Floor
(between 5th and 6th Ave)

Wednesday 6/3 at 6:00-10:00 PM

See you there!

Read More...

Thursday, May 28, 2009

The Beach Issue: LOS ANGELES EDITION

Summer is basically here- the weather is gorgeous and sunny- so what better way to spend your weekend than at the beach! Here is a list of some of the Culturistas' favorite LA beaches!

Venice Beach-- probably the most interesting beach of LA--- attracting artists, tourists, bohemian types and quirky characters. If you want to take a bike ride, a walk, or just people watch, this is the place to go! Things to see:
Venice Art Walls: The Venice Public Art Walls are located on the sand in the heart of Venice Beach. Basically anyone can paint/graffiti on the walls if you have a permit.
Muscle Beach: The outdoor workout area made famous by Arnold Schwarzenegger and other bodybuilders.
Venice Canals: The canals were built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney. There are 6 remaining canal bridges left- and make a serene and relaxing walk- You can walk along them in the area bordered by Washington, South Venice Blvd., Pacific Ave. and Ocean Ave.


Dockweiler Beach--Dockweiler is the only beach in LA where you can have a bonfire! So if you are looking for a fun summer night at the beach- this could be the place. Check it out at: 12001 Vista del Mar
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293







Paradise Cove
-- Probably the prettiest beach in LA- Paradise Cove has been used for filming shows like the OC and Baywatch. The beach is located north of Malibu just off Highway 1. There is also the "Beach Cafe" located right on the beach--perfect if you get hungry.

Read More...

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Looks we love: SOPHIA BUSH

The Culturistas cannot get enough of Sophia Bush! She has a refined and creative sense of style and has really come into her own as a fashion icon.


Sophia wore this amazing geometric Alexander Wang dress to the Armani Exchange Watch Launch at the SLS Hotel in Los Angeles. She is also wearing her favorite Dior gladiator sandals which we previously posted of her wearing to a lunch event at the Chateau Marmont.


If you love Sophia's look and do not want to spend the $795 on this exquisite Alexander Wang dress, we have the next best thing. This similar style can be found at Akira for only $36!

Read More...

Beyonce wearing the Jeggings trend!

Beyonce rocks the "Jeggings" trend in this cute ensemble. She wears a gorgeous white Balmain jacket with an interesting shoulder detail, a white t-shirt, and sparkly platform heels with her jeggings.

Read More...

American Apparel rummage sale LA

Looks like American Apparel will be having rummage sales every Sat and Sun until Fall! Great way to find some discounted clothing this summer! Click on the image for a larger view! Looks like the sales will be taking place in Little Tokyo on Melrose in WeHo and in Santa Monica. Prices start at $5 and its CASH ONLY! If you are loving the idea of the rummage sale-- also check out Jet Rag on Sundays!

Read More...

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Get Chris Pine's Look

Photobucket

Actor Chris Pine shows off his casual but hip celebrity style while walking around LA. Check out the Culturista's break down of his look above! He wears a cool blazer jacket (made from sweatshirt material) with a simple v-neck t, slim cut black pants, retro glasses and sneakers! So simple but very stylish!

Read More...

Alexander McQueen Presale!


Register now at: AlexanderMcQueen.com

Official sale period starts June 2nd.

Read More...

THE BUZZ ON BALTHAZAR


If you are in the market for French fine dining, Balthazar is just the place. It is located in the heart of Soho and the creation of renowned restaurateur Keith McNally. Balthazar which takes on the appearance of a brasserie, has a charming atmosphere which fuses the elegance of Paris with the edge of New York. The restaurant was packed even for an early dinner and we waited in anticipation for our orders. We got the shrimp risotto as an appetizer which was better than any Risotto I had in Italy.



The deserts we had were so delicious I questioned whether or not there might be some addictive substance which was the secret ingredient. The most amazing choice we made were the profiteroles.



The next time you are looking for a restaurant to celebrate a special occasion, try Balthazar!

Balthazar
80 Spring Street
New York, NY 10012

Read More...

Monday, May 25, 2009

Look of the Week: Rihanna

Photobucket

Rihanna looked fierce this weekend at one of Kanye Wests parties in NYC. She wore a gorgeous Alexander Wang two toned dress. And shes definately rocking it!! Love love love her look!!

Read More...

Celebrate The Art of Tuscany in NYC


As part of Toscana in New York, a week-long series of events celebrating Tuscan lifestyle, there will be a reception and art exhibit on Wednesday the 27th.

Shown at the exhibit will be original costumes from Romeo and Juliet, the 1968 film by Tuscan Franco Zeffirelli, which won an Oscar for Best Costume Design.

Called “Italian Art Codex,” the other part of this exhibit will showcase artist books and art works shaped as books on loan from The Center of Contemporary Art Luigi Pecci in Tuscany.

Tuscan wine and light food to be served


Time Warner Center, 2nd floor
Wednesday, May 27
5:30-7:30 p.m.
Space is limited so guests must RSVP at tuscanyart@themarino.org

If you cant make it to the reception- the exhibit runs from Wednesday, May 27 through Sunday, May 31 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Wednesday-Saturday)
11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Sunday)

Read More...

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Try Ethiopian Food!

Sega Wot, Tibbs, and Vegitarian Combo

Ethiopian food is a wonderful ethnic alternative to your average American fare. Instead of burgers and fries, try beef tibbs and a veggie combo. Ethiopians make delicious vegetarian dishes if you are looking for veggie options! But they also have tons of meat dishes for diners craving meat. They serve all dishes with generous portions of their bread- called injera. It is a thin crepe like flat bread that the every dish is served on. To eat the dishes pieces of injera are torn off and used to scoop up mouthful. It has a slightly sour flavor and looks and feels a lot like a sponge. And its surprisingly addicting!!

Try the honey wine or Ethiopian beer for added authenticity. And dont worry about getting there a little early because the food takes a while to prepare!

For a great Ethiopian feast in LA try:

Merkato
1036 1/2 S Fairfax Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90019
(323) 935-1775

Meals by Genet
1053 S Fairfax Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90019
(323) 938-9304

Read More...

Friday, May 22, 2009

Cannes Film Festival Fashion 2009

Photobucket

The actresses attending the Cannes Film Festival this past week looked gorgeous in chiffon, brocade and sequins. Angelina's nude Versace gown had an incredibly high slit up the side and she looked great-- definately one of the best dressed at Cannes so far! Penelope Cruz wore a Marchesa gown which had such beautiful beaded detailing with tons of draping. Also love Paris' white Grecian inspired gown complete with gold accessories.

Read More...

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Get your Old Navy Flip Flops this Saturday!

This Saturday, May 23rd, Old Navy is having their flip flop sale---where all their adults and kids flip flops are 1 dollar! Pretty amazing...also amazing is what they must have cost to still make a profit on 1 dollar. But they do last a while and serve an important summer purpose!

Read More...

Trend Watch: The Long Tunic Tank

Photobucket

Summer is almost here! And if you want to dress easy breezy bohemian, the long tunic tank is for you! You can pair it with a jean skirt or shorts or even jeans. Throw on a sweater or boyfriend blazer over it for chillier days. See how some celebs wear the long tank below!

Photobucket

Read More...

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Lovely Linkage



Read More...

Hanky Panky's + Essie Nail Polish = Love

Photobucket
Hanky Panky and Essie have teamed up together to pair matching thongs and nail polish! The girlie Culturista in us is thrilled!! Love the "Ballet Slipper" set, seen above! They each retail for $36. To buy Hanky Panky/Essie sets check out:
Barenecessities.com

It seems like they only have 2 sets available at the moment, but here's hoping for more!


Read More...

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

5/21/09 BOOK SIGNING: THE LATE, LAMENTED MOLLY MARX!


If you are in the New York area, this Thursday 5/21/09 at 7:00 PM there will be a book reading/signing you don't want to miss! The author, Sally Koslow will be reading excerpts from her newest novel The Late, Lamented Molly Marx at Borders in Columbus Circle. This book has received some wonderful literary praise and one clever reader described it as "Jewish chic lit." Head down to Border's Bookstore this Thursday to get a sneak peak at this witty tale about Molly, a woman who has just died and observes life after death from a comical point of view!

Borders
10 Columbus Circle
New York, NY 10019

Read More...

Piperline Sale


Check out Piperline.com for a nice 30% off sale! Ends May 31st. They have really cute summer sandals, handbags and even mens and kids shoes.


Unisa- $44.50 (on sale from 65)

Nine West- $59.50 (on sale from 89)

Check out the sale: HERE!

Read More...

Monday, May 18, 2009

Anna Wintour on 60 Minutes

Read More...

See a comedy show for a good cause!



FRIENDS with BENEFITS FUNDRAISER at the Improv!
The Improv is having a fundraiser tomorrow (Tuesday May 19th) starting at 8pm to support the Jenesse Center, which is a domestic violence intervention program. Tickets are 20 dollars. The line up includes Andrea Nittoli, Adam Hunter, Sean Kanan, Bret Ernst and Alonzo Bodden. Buy your tickest: HERE
The Improv
8162 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 651-2583

Jenesse Center is the oldest domestic violence intervention program in South Central Los Angeles. The Center was founded in 1980 by five African American women who were survivors of domestic violence. Our mission is to provide victims of domestic violence with a comprehensive, centralized base of support to assist them in addressing their immediate crisis and changing the patterns of their lives.

Read More...

Get Zac Efron's look for less!

Photobucket

Get Zac's look by shopping for key pieces at Heritage, Aldo and American Eagle.
Top: American Eagle
Pants: Heritage
Shoes: Tilly's
Glasses:Aldo

Read More...

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Fashion Fusion: THE JEGGING


Have you been wondering if skinny jeans can get any skinnier? Well it turns out, they can. The concept of fusion is not limited to cuisines, we now have a merger of styles: leggings+jeans= JEGGINGS. This recent trend first emerged in the UK and several pairs of Jeggings can be found at none other than Britain's finest, Topshop! You can also find similar styles at

AMERICAN APPAREL.



This stylistic hybrid is made out of either spandex or polyester giving providing the effect of the legging, however, the texture of the fabric resembles denim. Just beware that these ditties are skin tight and you might want to reconsider wearing underwear that day.

Read More...

Friday, May 15, 2009

Look of the Week: Jessica Biel

Photobucket

Jessica Biel attended the premiere for her new film "Easy Virtue," Wednesday night in NYC. She looks great in this one shouldered, ruched and beaded gown. She accessorized with snakeskin heels, a diamond bracelet and earings. Très chic! Check out the trailer of "Easy Virtue" below:


Read More...

Links a la mode

lam0514

Links Ă  la Mode : May 15th

Read More...

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Chic and Cheap finds of the week!

Photobucket

We all know the procedure by now: well known and coveted designers create cheaper lines for affordable stores. And don't we love it! Not all of us can afford designer prices (especially in this economy) so why not make their designs more affordable for the masses. It's a win win (designers make BIG bucks for these collections). This season Abaete and Alice and Olivia created some great shoes for SS09. Shop at Payless.com for more from their collections.

Read More...

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Get Dita's Look

Photobucket

Jacket- Topshop
Skirt- Heritage
Wallet/Purse- Aldo
Vintage Jewelry

Get Dita's look by pairing vintage items with vintage looking items! Wear vampy dark red lipstick and dark nail polish to unleash your inner burlesque kitten. Croc skin and lace can look very vintage depending on the piece. Look for good quality and attention to detail when shopping for vintage looking items. Click here to see our Culturista style profile on, the always put together, Dita Von Teese.

Read More...

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

MADISON AVENUE GALLERY ART WALK


This coming Saturday, May 16th from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, some of the most famous galleries will be hosting free tours and unique events for the public. Several activities will be lead by art teachers and specialists. Reservations are not required and tours will be starting on the hour at the Event Information Centers in the Fuller Building located at 41 E. 57th Street. A silent auction will be held and all proceeds will go towards organizations working to improve arts education in the New York City public schools. Each tour is approximately two hours and visits four separate galleries.

For a complete list of the participating galleries

CLICK THIS LINK!

IT'S TIME TO GET CULTURED!

Read More...

Style Profile: Dita Von Teese

Dita Von Teese is the Vintage Princess. She never steps foot outside her house without looking put together with her vintage flair. I saw her at the Vintage Expo a few weeks ago- looking as elegant and put together as always. Her favorite periods are 30's 40's fashion and it is clear that she puts so much thought into each of her outfits!

Photobucket

Get Dita's vintage style by shopping at these stores in LA:

The Way We Wore
Paper Bag Princess

The Culturista's show you how to achieve Dita's Look: Here

Read More...

Monday, May 11, 2009

E.L.F Cosmetics- Everything is $1!


Eyes Lips and Face Cosmetics is having an unbelievable promotion right now. Not only are the majority of products only $1, but if you enter the coupon code CAROLINA on all orders of $15 or more, you get an additional $7.50 off. There are a few items like kits and makeup bags that are more than $1, but with promotions like this it is worth it! I just bought more than 10 items and only spent $15. It is a guaranteed MAKEUPGASM!

EYES LIPS AND FACE COSMETICS

Read More...

Gossip Girl Fashion Inspiration

Photobucket
Dress, French Connection $167
Shoes, Christian Louboutin $995
Head Band, Forever 21, $4.80
Sunglasses, Miu Miu $177
Gloves, Vintage

We all want to dress like the main characters from Gossip Girl. Either Blair's always chic and preppy style, to Serena's sexpot ensembles to Jenny's edgy hipster clothing. Most of us find someone to aspire to dress like. So here is some style inspiration from the Culturistas!

Photobucket
Boots, Halston $1695
Clutch, Yves Saint Laurent $1530
Dress, Dorothy Perkins $43
Ring, Roberto Cavalli $405
Bracelets, Alice and Ani $268

Photobucket
Boots, La Garconne $565
Dress, Top Shop $68
Purse, Catwalk Genius, $30.22
Necklace, Miss Selfridge $22.70
Bracelets, Linea Pelle $35

Read More...

Saturday, May 9, 2009

Get Vanessa's LG Party Look for Less!

Photobucket

You might recognize this picture of Vanessa Hudgens from our "Look of the week" posts. Get her summer look for less with this great pieces from Nine West, Delias, Asos, Forever 21 and Miss Selfridges. Or if you want to buy the exact dress she was wearing, by Gold Hawk $275, shop for it here!at Couturecandy.com

Read More...

Roasted Fruit A la mode recipe

[Recipe from Rachel Ray, Photo from Food Network]

In need of a delicious summer recipe? Here is a great dessert recipe using in season fruit and unexpected balsamic vinegar.
Ingredients:

* 2 plums, cut in 1/2 and pitted
* 2 peaches, cut in 1/2 and pitted
* 2 apricots or nectarines, cut in 1/2 and pitted
* 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar, look for a little age and good quality (bc it will be thicker)
* 1 pint French vanilla ice cream

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Place the fruit in a small baking dish and drizzle with balsamic vinegar, season with a little salt and pepper and transfer to the oven. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes depending on how ripe your fruit is. Remove from the oven and divide between 4 dessert bowls, drizzle with any of the balsamic vinegar that is in the baking dish. Top each bowl with a scoop of ice cream.

Read More...

Friday, May 8, 2009

A CULTURISTA MOTHER'S DAY


Mother's Day Ideas:

It seems like every year, mother's day always creeps up and most people need to put together a last minute gift to honor their dear mothers. It's not that we don't love the moms, but for some reason, these preparations tend to take a last minute course. If you are at a loss on what to do for your mom here are some suggestions.

COOKING CLASS- Does your mom like to cook? Mine definitely does. Last year, I registered her at the culinary school associated with Sur La Table which has a wide variety of courses offering lessons in ethnic cooking. I signed her up for a Korean cooking class and she LOVED it. While this option is a bit pricey, knowing that you really rocked mother's day is worth it.

QUALITY TIME- If you are lucky enough to live in close proximity to your mother, then spending a little time with her is your best option. She will appreciate it more than cholocate and flowers. Plan an activity day for the two of you. This could be going to brunch and then a museum or whatever it is that you like to together. If you are on a tight budget, this might be the best option for you.

SPA TREATMENT- For those of you in LA, there is an amazing spa that has highly affordable massages. Touch Massage Boutique is located in Beverly Hills at Robertson Blvd and Olympic. This spa is by no means cheap or dingy and offers high quality massages. THe lowest grade massage is the classic Swedish massage which is one hour long and only $57. After one of these your mom will be more relaxed than you ever would have thought possible.

Read More...

Look of the week: Vanessa Hudgens

Photobucket

Vanessa Hudgens attended the LG Rumorous Night party in West Hollywood. She wore a baby blue layered chiffon summer dress (by Gold Hawk) paired with gold jewelry, sparkling clutch and gladiator heels. She looks perfection for spring/summer! Love this easy going outfit.

Read More...

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Pompeii and the Roman Villa Exhibit at LACMA

Photobucket

Pompeii and the Roman Villa: Art and Culture around the Bay of Naples, is currently on view at LACMA in Los Angeles. The exhibit includes works of art from the imperial villa at Oplontis and from aristocratic villas such as the Villa San Marco at Stabiae and the Villa dei Papiri at Herculaneum, as well as works from the opulent houses of the urban elite in Pompeii, whose very name conjures up ancient Rome and other towns along the bay of Naples. More about the exhibit when you click "Read More"

I found the exhibit to be very interesting when you think about the context of all these works. There were so many affluent Romans during the 1st century that they wanted to spend their money on commissioned works of art, gold jewelry and gorgeous interior decoration and architecture. Unfortunately in the city of Rome at the time- the wealthy were forbidden to flaunt their money and often lived in very austere homes. So just like many affluent people in today's society have a beach house in Malibu or a house at the Hamptons-- these Romans had Villas on the Bay of Naples. They were able to lavishly decorate their homes here and live in luxury.
Photobucket
Also interesting and kind of entertaining was the idea that artists would recreate ancient Greek statues and sell them as ancient works--which Roman buyers had to get their hands on.

The exhibit is on view at Lacma from
May 3–October 4, 2009

Read More...