The Adventures of an Urban Socialite ©

Times, they are a changin'

2006-12-12T16:27:00.002-05:00

Come visit me at my new home! Just go to:
Urban Socialite.com
This page should automatically redirect you in a couple seconds.
I have plans for my blogger site. Please stay tuned.
If you happen to go to UrbanSocialite.com page and the page says something like "site coming soon," don't fret! I'm in the process of combining all of these sites into a great new website!

2006-12-07T06:25:00.001-05:00

Blogger Frustration!

2006-12-06T06:02:00.000-05:00

I've had it with blogger. 1/2 the time the site is down, the other 1/2 of the time, like today, certain aspects of the site aren't working (I can't seem to upload pictures this morning). Additonally, the site continues to mess with my template and generally annoy me.
I'm in the process of moving my site to WordPress. I hired a great friend to help with the redesign... in the meantime I'm just gonna haul everything over there and use one of their templates. Anything is better than this at this point....

Chick Here: The Adventures of an Urban Socialite

naketano

2006-12-04T05:53:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I've had an absolute favorite something. A while back it was sneakers... I had this pair of black and silver Nike's that I found at a sample sale in NY. They were totally odd and all of my friends hated them- but I literally found an excuse to wear them to every occasion. They saw everything from the inside of Cheetah to the beaches on the Cape. I loved them. Unfortunately they encountered an inconceivably large pile of dog-doo as I raced home to get my first year grades in law school and had to be discarded. In college I had this one grey t-shirt that I wore everywhere. It was one of the few things that survived the abercrombie purge of 1999 (thanks to Smitty and Rob's intervention). Alas... one day it went "missing" never to be seen again (my friends smiled smugly to each other when I conceded the loss).
Yes... there have been jackets, t-shirts, jeans and shoes in the past... but nothing I've reached for on a consistent basis recently... until Naketano.

In the eyes of Nicole Christensen, Naketano's head designer, a fashion designer receives ultimate accolade when a piece of clothing becomes a favourite piece. When one buys and wears other garments solely to combine them with the one, the favourite piece. Whoever craves to wear one item constantly (if possible or hygienically bearable), on any occasion and in all possible and impossible combinations, awards that item´s designer to the max and, at the same time, defines the benchmark Naketano perpetually aims to reach.

I looove their stuff. Comfort, style and a freshness I haven't encountered in a long time. Here to shop.

Cause a Frenzii

2006-12-03T07:57:00.000-05:00

Every December is a frenzy of parties, gift buying and stress. Not that I don't love the holidays... its just that sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming. One of the most stressful endeavors? What to wear. It seems like every party has its own dress code... from the super casual to the ultra formal. In spite of this, there's at least one kind of frenzy I actually look forward to this time of year... shopping for my holiday dresses at Frenzii. Her designs are simple, comfortable, wearable and 100% breathtaking. Shop for her stuff at The Bus Stop, The Fashion Cafe, and Standard Style... or find her at a local boutique!

NYCouture

2006-12-01T07:53:00.000-05:00

My world has been oscillating between crime and couture over the past few weeks... random combination, I know. I feel very schizophrenic about the whole thing. You know, the whole "so much beauty and so much misery in the world" diatribe... I'll spare you that for now.
Times like this remind me of New York, because everything moved so fast and I was constantly confronted with dichotomies. The filming of a movie with multi-millionaire actors and actresses running around Hudson street while the homeless mother watched from her spot on the subway stairs.
Its not wonder that couture based in and on this crazy city also has multiple personalities.

New York Couture combines a little bit of class, a little bit of spunk, and a whole lot of style in its unique collection. New York Couture is run by an eclectic 23 year old named Cassie, who believes that clothing is the perfect way to express yourself. She believes everyone is unique which is why New York Couture only makes one of a kind pieces; to represent your individual style and originality. As the new year approaches and party invites start to stack, NY Couture is a great place for that one-of-a-kind holiday outfit!

Give Twice

2006-11-28T06:12:00.000-05:00

This season as you're shopping, why not give twice? Annettes Angels features hand designed jewelery, tees, accessories and bath and body products from US and international artists. From unique lap top sleeves (I love the brown and pink) to my favorite Pagoda earrings, this site has a little bit of everything. In addition, Annettes Angels gives 50% of their profits to FORCE, a unique resource for people with, or at risk for, genetic breast and ovarian cancers. Plus (as if a plus is needed!) Barbara from the site extended an invitation to join the Annettes Angel's mailing list. If you sign up before January 1st you'll be automatically entered to win a sweet gift basket from the site.

Ask about me....

2006-11-21T05:54:00.000-05:00

What do you do when you're an angry kid from Cambridge Massachusetts... seething in your Northface, itching to start a revolution? You make tee shirts of course!
In a place where even the color red is bullied (Crimson has that place on lock)- the people at Proletariat (sorry blogger wouldn't let me switch the letters around like their defiant logo) are making a statement. My favorite design is the salesman hoody. I like it (1) because its just a cool idea. Its like, "that's a cool hoody" and then all of sudden BAM you flash your complementer with the inside as if to say "you only know the half of it." I also like it (2) because its all "power to the people fist in the air, I hustle to get mine" and it costs $65. Not that $65 for a hoody is unreasonable... actually that's pretty inexpensive. I just like the fact that the creators are working their hustle in order to help you symbolically demonstrate the fact that you work yours.
You have forgive the image (its a little cut and paste... I'm sure the creators are too busy plotting and scheming to worry about proper display), but you have to admit the concept behind this hoody is pretty damn cool.

What time is it?

2006-11-20T06:10:00.000-05:00

Time to get a new watch! (Ah memories of 3rd grade come flooding back with that one). In all seriousness, if you're in the market for a new watch or if you're looking for a distinctly modern gift, Nooka is the place to go.

Nooka is the brainchild of artist and designer, Matthew Waldman. in 1997, Matthew had a flash-back to a first grade math class while staring at a large wall clock in a London hotel and was struck by how few options there were for time display. He then sketched his ideas for potential designs on a napkin and brought them back to New York. After working on the designs, he submitted them to his legal team, and indeed, they were unique enough to patent!

6:22 on a Monday morning and I'm already late... how is that even possible? If only I had a Nooka to keep me in check!

Maps

2006-11-16T05:44:00.000-05:00

I love Boston, don't get me wrong... but there are certain things I miss about New York. The fashion, the night life, and yes... the subway. It was so... orderly. The numbered and lettered cars, the grid-like system, the fact that I could ride the subway from Harlem to Coney Island on a whim... it was great. NYC SubwayLine is the officially licensed brand of NY's MTA... as such one would expect ill fitting sweat shirts, boring tee's and quite possibly fanny packs. Not so! Their stuff is so hot. I love that whole beautiful/ industrial thing.
I'm a big fan of the wallet and wristlet and love the map tees.

Speaking of maps, if you're a writer or are looking for a gift for a writer this holiday season, Maps of the Imagination: The Writer As A Cartogrpaher is a wonderfully inspiring book. One of my all time favorites!

Lastly, since I'm on the whole maps/ subway thing, be sure to stop by "Overheard in New York" for a few good laughs. The things people say and do in public never ceases to amaze me.

Bag Intervention

2006-11-14T05:49:00.000-05:00

My boyfriend has recetnly suggested having something along the lines of a "bag intervention." This happened when we attempted to merge our belongings into one closet and my shelf of purses overflowed onto his collection of shoes on the floor (they always say women have a shoe thing... but men can be kinda crazy with their sneakers).
"How many black purses do you need!?" he asked. I tried to explain that they were all different sizes, shapes, and levels of dress, but he continued to roll his eyes.
Its my personal opinion that you can never have too many purses. Sandy Blaine, of La Vie Devant Soie, would likely agree...

In 2002, Sandy Blain left France for Cambodia, where she met sewers in difficulty in a country in crisis. She therefore decided to create "La Vie Devant Soie" (LVDS). The idea: to concentrate as much on the style as on ethics to create high-quality, modern and elegant products. Trendy, luxurious, LVDS provides fashionable accessories (bags, clutch bags, hats, scarves . . . ) with a trendy design.

Her bags are a lovely fusion of style and ethics... be sure to visit her site and other members of the ethical fashion show.

Inspired Customs

2006-11-09T06:23:00.000-05:00

Every now and then a tee shirt company sets itself apart from the rest. This gift giving season, be sure to check out Custom Industries. Founded in the summer of 2004 by graphic designer and world traveller Matt Taylor, Custom Industries reflects his (and his wife's) passion for travel, art and adventure. Each tee shirt graphic is accompanied by an individualized tag with an anecdotal and irreverent description about the place that inspired the design. A truly unique approach, sure to please even the most picky tee-shirt connoisseur.

The Write Stuff

2006-11-07T06:24:00.000-05:00

I have to say, sometimes I'm a bit jealous of the person writing my life.
Let me back up...
When I step back and view my life from an outside perspective, I often get the sense its the product of some wild imagination, not my own. Things tend to fall into place, build tension, and create drama in the way that so many great stories do. I sit at my computer late at night (or early morning, which you've seen) and clear my head in the hopes of writing that perfect first line of my great American novel. Alas, my real life always gets in the way- my after-thoughts become daydreams and before I know it I'm lost. Whomever is writing my life not only has a great sense of drama, but a wild sense of humor as well.
In case you didn't know, November is National Novel Writing Month. I realize I'm writing this a week behind, but you can still sign up on the site . . . a perfect place to stop for your daily dose of inspiration. . . if its not already right in front of you.

Use your Imashination

2006-11-03T06:30:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:

A dash of hip-hop
A sprinkle of skate
A pinch of sport
1980s to taste

Combine all ingredients. Mash until smooth....
The end result of this recipe would be something like the fantastic designs cooked up by the creators of Mash Culture Lab.

Mash Culture Lab stems from today's youth integrating different cultures and previous generations to create a mish-mash style that integrates fashion, music, sports and entertainment. The brand's designs are indicative of this mish-mash culture's members who seek style sensibility.

I know I'm a bit late in the game, but seeing as its November, I thought I should start with some Christmas gift ideas . . . if you have any good leads, be sure to send them this way!

Sweet Pecan Pie

2006-11-01T06:51:00.000-05:00

Atlanta's Design Museum is currently showcasing an exhibition entitled: 'To a T' T-shirt Culture... Cute or Couture? With brands like Atlanta-based Pecan Pie Couture in the mix, I'd say the answer is a little bit of both.

Pecan Pie Couture is truly a southern belle- one who's not afraid to roll up her sleeves and roll out the dough. A little bit tacky, a little bit sassy and unmistakably Southern, Pecan Pie's graphic stenciled and hand -embroidered t-shirts are the perfect combination of big-city opulence and small town civility.

The designs are fresh, fun and kind of remind me of a southern version of Johnny Cupcakes! Anyway if you're down south defintiley check out the Design Museum's exhibit and local shops for Pecan Pie Couture. Above the Bible Belt? You're gonna have to beg (someone who has connections) borrow (from one of your very stylish friends) or steal (again, from one of your very stylish friends) to get one of these highly sought after tees. . .

Manic Monday...

2006-10-30T06:07:00.000-05:00

Clothes:
With a mix of playful designs and playful designers, postlapsaria caught my eye weeks ago and has been a favorite destination ever since. Postlapsaria not only has some of the cutest designs around, they're extremely comfortable and versatile-- there's no stiff couture here!

Of interest:
I don't know if you've heard, but Aron Ranen's "Black Hair" DVD is generating a lot of interest lately. Instead of expressing my opinion on the matter (it would go on for pages)- I'll leave it to you to form your own. A free preview of the DVD is available on his website!

Anyway, as usual, I'm late. . . until next time!

Fits to a tee

2006-10-27T06:01:00.000-04:00

I'll say for the record I don't have a strong opinion about Tiger one way or the other. However, I do think he broke down some pretty substantial barriers and I definitely appreciate what he's done in that respect. My boyfriend and I golf at Franklin Park Golf Course here in Boston. In the 1940s and 1950s, when most of the golf courses around the country were segregated, people of all ethnic groups were welcome at Franklin Park. Before Franklin Park, I had the distinct pleasure of golfing on Fisher's Island as well... there not only I was I on-staff (and therefore allowed to make use of the private course), I was the only person of color on the entire island at one point! Needless to say Franklin Park was a welcome change- and there's nothing like going for a round of golf and seeing a kid with corn rows make par.
Now, I'm not suggesting that just because the game of golf has become more diverse that the attired needs to change. I'm actually a huge fan of pink polo and light blue pants (I know like 1/2 of my friends who are reading this are rolling their eyes and laughing right now)- anyway for those who want their golf attire to have a bit more style- Urban Golf Gear is the place to go. More than an athletic brand, its a lifestyle brand. The logo is gorgeous and they have everything from t-shirts to Polos.

Craig Tanner, Chief Urban Officer, was inspired to create Urban Golf Gear after watching Tiger Woods win his third amateur golf title. "When I watched Tiger and Steve Scott compete, they were dressed like old men. I thought their apparel could be spiced up."

I know it may be a bit late in the season to be pushing golf gear-- but for those of you lucky enough to live in warmer climates, golf is never out of season. For those of you like me who have already had to turn on the heat- rest assured that great style will always be in season.

Very Wells

2006-10-26T06:35:00.000-04:00

Too often I have found myself focused on one or the other: the past or the future.
When I started college I was preoccupied by the past- I felt the strings and standards of my small home town holding me back- and it wasn't until my junior year that I really came into my own. Once I graduated all I could think about was the future. How was I going to make tons of money so I could keep up with my friends. I forgot what made me happy and instead focused on what I believed to be the "big picture" and ultimately got lost.
It wasn't until law school that everything came together. I no longer resented the small-town aspects of my past and learned that they were an invaluable part of my character- I also became less "future" oriented and focused on the present- changing my thought process from "what will make me rich so I can be happy later" to "what makes me happy now."
Working in public interest law is about the last thing in the world I ever thought I'd end up doing. . . but for the first time I think I've found a balance between the past and present that works for me- more than money, and more than dwelling on past issues, I find its most important to be happy today- I think once present happiness is established, there's room for everything else to fall into place.
Another young woman inspired by the past and future is Ms. Laurel Wells. She combines both modern and vintage elements in her truly inspiring collections. Each piece is beautiful. . . and (lucky us!) she has recently opened an on-line shop. I looooove her bow-tie dress and was sad to see her seafoam cotton velvet skirt has already sold out! Guaranteed to set you apart in that Rachel Roy (I just love her style) sort of way, Laurel Wells has something for every occasion and every taste! An Urban Socialite top pick!!

Just be with Rebe

2006-10-25T06:03:00.000-04:00

Whenever I get overwhelmed I get flighty. "Mad flighty" as my brother would say. The inbox starts to pile up, the stack of unopened mail spills onto the floor, and my phone recycles voice mail messages before I get a chance to listen to them.
So in some ways its kind of ridiculous that I keep up with this site, above all other things. I guess in some ways this keeps me grounded. Like no matter how nuts things get, there's always art. There are always people creating gorgeous things and throwing themselves behind a dream.
Take for instance Rebe. A mother/ daughter team creating lovely designs way out there on the West Coast. Debra and Hillery combine classic silhouettes with eclectic fabrics and embellishments to create a truly unique look. Wear the look alone, or pair with a conservative suit (something some of us have to wear every day) to give your work attire a little spice.
Check out the "stores" section of the their site to find local outlets stocking this adorable brand!

Chillin'

2006-10-24T06:57:00.000-04:00

So... chillin' is something I'm NOT doing this morning... but that's another story for another time. Since you obviously have some time to chill (you are here, aren't you?)-- why not stop by Chillers- the originators of signed, numbered, limited edition designs by emerging artists from around the world like Daniel Blignault and John Galac!
More later!

Awww Sh***

2006-10-19T06:18:00.000-04:00

. . . That's what I said every morning for weeks this summer as I approached my car covered in bird turds. My landlord assigned me spot lucky #13 which was directly under the biggest tree in the neighboring apartment complex. The guys at the car wash knew me well- I was going every three days until I couldn't afford it anymore (studying and not working kills a budget). . . and once at Stop and Shop an old woman approached me and said, "Oh... its bird doo... I thought you had put camouflage paint on your car! ha ha ha! you should get that taken care of." Not only was the episode entirely embarrassing, but it led me to wonder what kind of camouflage she thought I was trying to achieve, my car being red and all. . .
Anyway, My favorite grumpy t-shirt designer has come up with the perfect solution. The Grumpy Girl Auto Bird Turd Emergency Kit. Genius if you ask me.
She also has great t-shirts including the "organized mess" shirt which I'm fixing to order right now (just because my desk is covered in law journals, Star magazine, and sketches doesn't mean its not organized!!)
And yes I said "fixing to order."
It's early.

Straight smokin, tokin'

2006-10-17T19:34:00.000-04:00

The best thing, I think, is inadvertent, unexpected inspiration. It can come in various forms . . . a job, a conversation, a gaze across the bar. . . whatever. It can make the most frustrating times bearable. Now I'm not necessarily saying I'm going through a frustrating time-- though like most people I certainly have frustrating aspects of my life-- but I will say I have experienced that warm fuzzy feeling that comes from unexpected inspiration. Its the kind that makes you want to write, or that at least allows you to see the world as a story unfolding-- complete with all the little details . . . like the color of someones eyes or the ability to not only see injustice, but feel it to the core your being.
It seems like I've been wandering along too long looking for it-- forcing myself to search for it in old books, old conversations, and old endeavors. Its like the minute I stopped looking, BAM there it was.
Anyway, on a completely different note, but maybe a bit like inadvertent inspiration, I'm loving toke's "hot rocks" t-shirt. Maybe because it captures something dynamic in its simplicity. Maybe because it, like the other t-shirts on tokeworld, are super cute and remind me of a Saturday afternoon. Or maybe, like inadvertent inspiration, it just works.

Just Peachy

2006-10-13T06:21:00.000-04:00

The other day I was at work and a co-worker reminded me of my love for hip-hop. Not that I really needed to be reminded-- (and not the stuff they're playing on the radio now. Seriously? That song by Jibbs may be the saddest thing I've ever heard.) Anyway, I could go on and on about the lack of creativity, the horrible messages the music is sending, or... had you been really unlucky I could make my modern day hip-hop / crack analogy. But I'll hold off for now.
The point of this is, the conversation reminded me of one of favorite websites, The Giant Peach. Not only do they have the best music (The Coup, Zion I, and Dead Prez to name a few) they have great clothes- hard to find t-shirts, great indie designers like Gentle Fawn, Heavy Rotation, and Akomplice, not to mention fabulous accessories and DVDs. Be sure to bookmark them and check back often... the cool stuff always sells out!
Speaking of selling out (in a good way), I had the pleasure of seeing Radio Golf this weekend at the Huntington Theater in Boston. I loved it, and highly recommend going if it comes to your area (I know it's slated for Chicago soon!)

Nappy Soldier in the City of Dope

2006-10-12T07:09:00.000-04:00

A lot of people have dual personalities. Your "work self" and your "real self." I found this to be true when I was working at a law firm. My "work self" wore cashmere twin-sets and talked about the Red Sox (boring), the housing market in Boston ("Well, Tucker and I are not in the Market right now... but are looking to get back into the market when the time is right...) (by the way, there is/was no "Tucker" but had I been dating one, my firm credibility points would have doubled), and of course everyone was planning weddings.
"What did you do this weekend?" was best answered with: "My boyfriend and I took in a show," rather than explaining that I went to a Dead Prez concert. Anyway, those days have long since passed and luckily I have found a job where the line between my work self and my real self is much less rigid.
Despite that, I still have my "work bags" and my "weekend bags" . . . I love my black Coach work bag, but on the weekends I just want something comfortable, something I can throw my life into and go. For that I've recently discovered Cecilia Jane Bags. I love her Nappy Solider Bag and the Spirit bag with the cool handle. Designer Simonair, hailing from St. Thomas, has been sewing since she was thirteen years old. She not only has great offerings on her site, but will gladly create a custom bag for you as well!

Also, The Grouch and Zion I released a new album this week which is amazing!! Zion I is by far my favorite group... I love Zion's flow. Definitely check this album out... (they have a few free downloads on myspace.com!)

A girl with substance.

2006-10-10T06:02:00.000-04:00

Strip away the designer handbag full of buckles, leather and zippers . . . remove the latest blouse that all the "it" girls have . . . peel off the too-tight designer jeans . . . step out of the $600 heels. Pop off the fake lashes, nails and contacts. Wipe away the Chanel lip stick, Mac blush and Arden eye liner. And if you're that girl, remove the hair piece you put in for the club. What do you have left (besides underwear and I wasn't going to go there this early, sorry folks)?

The point is, what you have left is the person, the person minus the stuff. And no matter how much you dress her (or him) up, paint her, accessorize her, at the end of the day, all you ever really have is that person. Your un-done-up self with all the beliefs, morals, convictions that make you who you are. I often think the more whistles and bells people have on the outside, the more they're trying to hide (from the world and themselves) what's going on inside . . . (or worse yet, they're hiding the fact that nothing is going on internally.)

Clothes are, of course, a great way to hide (think: Paris Hilton... what the hell is going on there?)... but they're also a great way to express yourself. The trick is, not to get lost in the message. And to make sure the message has substance. Speaking of substance:

substance is an experiment in societal metaphysics, manifest by a kid in his basement with a critical mind and too many screen printing chemicals that wont wash off his hands. substance is a critique on the overly materialistic society in which we live, one in which basketball players are paid more then doctors, and status is measured in dollars. substance is designed to challenge mainstream fashion and its ignorance, and to provide an alternative to clothing sold next to mannequins with disproportionate bedonkadonks.

I love Substance's message and adore the shirts. . . although I must admit I do take issue with with the "mannequins with disproportionate bedonkadonks" line. Proportion is all relative my friend . . . Truthfully, I'd love to walk into Dior and see a mannequin with a big ol' booty. And with that line, and way too much coffee, I'm out!