Living Life in Color

Posted on June 12, 2013 by southphillyfashionista

Bold, candy-colored hues are everywhere this season! Envious emerald, terrific turquoise, marvelous magenta … I want to line my closet with them all! Unfortunately, if I bought everything I wanted, my bank account would be in the red. What’s a girl to do? Accessorize, of course!

Fornash 'Tizzy' Link Necklace in orange. Available at SMU for under $40.

If, like me, you can’t afford to replace your entire wardrobe in a weekend, consider using statement accessories to update your look. Big bag silhouettes take a more pronounced place in bold color blocks. A basic black clutch can be transformed by the addition of colorful beads and sequins. And big, bold stones breathe new life into bib necklaces, rings and bracelets. Even belts and headbands are getting into the mix this season.

One of my favorite places for picking up these pieces is South Moon Under, which just opened a new Martlon, NJ location – perfect for stopping on your way to the shore. I wasn’t able to make the opening last week, but I sent a few spies who informed me the new location is huge and lined wall-to-wall with this year’s hottest accessories.

Dresses and bags and jewelry - Oh my! SMU's new Marlton location has it all.

Try layering contrasting colors like pink and teal for instant impact (stick with just two shades to avoid looking like Rainbow Brite) or pair them with warm neutral tones for a more subtle effect. Summer white was never so striking as when worn with a pair of hot pink sandals.

From head to toe, there are myriad ways to incorporate color into your wardrobe without breaking the bank. And now, whether you’re shore-bound or stateside, you can stop into SMU and pick out a colorful accessory to brighten your look without emptying your wallet.

Happy shopping!

SPF

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Summer Slim Down

Posted on June 11, 2013 by southphillyfashionista

“Who here is 100% happy with the way they look in a bathing suit?” This was the question posed by Dr. Charlie Seltzer earlier this month during a media luncheon at the Sofitel’s Chez Colette. The answer, not surprisingly, was no one. Sure, we’re all our own worst critics, but bikini season can kick even the most secure person’s self-doubt into overdrive. But starving yourself isn’t the answer. With access to fresh, seasonal ingredients, you can stay swimwear-conscious and still enjoy something sumptuous.

This was the driving force behind the hotel’s De-Light menu. Developed by the nutrition and wellness experts at Thalassa Sea & Spa, it includes an array of well-balanced meals that are both health-conscious and delicious. Sofitel chefs at each of the brand’s locations design these dishes using the freshest local ingredients. Here in Philadelphia, Head Chef Jim Coleman picks herbs, fruits and veggies right out of the hotel’s roof-top garden, selecting the freshest fruits, veggies and spices that add flavor naturally and without extra calories.

For instance, slipping a sprig of fresh basil into your lemonade will lend a different layer of sweetness without additional sugar. The simple, clean flavors of the melon, tomato & sweet onion salad (coming in at just 104 calories) may astound you. Shore-side fresh fish is a no-brainer, but flaky white fish is one of the lightest options. Roasted cod with scallions and warm lentil salad will leave you satisfied without weighing you down. And save room for a dessert of fresh fruit sorbet or a Rasberry-mango sundae – trust me, you’ll never notice the absence of cream.

It’s not a shock to most that grilling or roasting is a healthier prep method than frying or that sorbet is a more calorie-conscious alternative to ice cream. Unlike some doctors I’ve worked with, Dr. Seltzer realizes we live in the real world and none of us is going to give up French fries for the remainder of our days. The important thing is to strike a balance. So, soak up the healthy flavors of the De-Light lunch menu and you won’t feel guilty about sipping that happy hour mojito.

Cheers!

SPF

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Hot Child in the City

Posted on May 29, 2013 by southphillyfashionista

It’s here! It’s here! It’s summer! Well, mostly. We all know Memorial Day is the unofficial start of the season and whether you plan on heading down the shore or sticking it out in the city, I’ve got the list of essentials to get you ready.

Most of us working folk spend the summer bouncing back and forth between the city and the shoreline, so we often need to squeeze our surf-side prep (and of course, a little fun) in during the week.

First stop: Eviama Life Spa for that all important bikini wax. Visit owner Penny Ordway in their new green-designed location. Anyone who promises you this service will be pain-free is a big, fat liar. But I promise you this: with 20 years of experience and a soothing demeanor, Penny gets as close to that line as humanly possible.

Turf: Keep cool with the cool kids at Stratus Lounge.

Few things in life that are worth doing are easy. So, reward yourself for putting up with the trials and tribulations of being a woman and follow-up your wax with a trip to Stratus Lounge. The heat may be fuming off the pavement, but there’s a lovely breeze high above the skyline on the roof of the Hotel Monaco. Enjoy that and the city skyline while you sip one of their signature vodka-spiked water-ice cocktails.

Don’t forget to bring along this year’s must-have accessory: your big ol’ floppy hat. The problem is in getting them to survive a trip in your suitcase. Nine West offers a line of summer chapeaus that are packable! I’ve rolled mine up and had it pop out of the luggage in perfect shape after several trips back and forth to the Caribbean.

Surf: Nine West hats are packable for easy portability.

Responsible sun-worship will keep you both comfortable and cute as the years progress. Pick up a tube of Kheil’s lip balm #1 to protect and moisturize your lips. The new mango flavor is my personal fav and goes well with fruity summer cocktails.

If you plan on making your own party, whether for graduation, Fourth of July or just plain fun, bring along a bottle of Brugal Rum. The quintessential summer spirit is easily paired with a variety of mixers from Fanta to fruit juice.

Whether your scene is surf or turf this summer, these basic items will keep you in beach bunny style.

SPF

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A Better Bra

Posted on May 10, 2013 by southphillyfashionista

Last week, I told you about the importance of skin care in your Spring spruce-up routine. A proper foundation is key to creating a flawless design. When it comes to your wardrobe that means foundation garments (read: lingerie). Some research shows that up to 85% of women are currently wearing the wrong size bra. I’ve heard this before, but having been measured numerous times at numerous, I was certain I was not among them.

Enter the Bra Whisperer. If you didn’t see her on Oprah a few years back, let me assure you, there is such a thing. When Intimacy opened a King of Prussia store last year, I took a drive to meet founder, Susan Nethero, for a bra fit styling. She measured me with neither tape nor fabric, simply took one look at me and said, “I’d say you’re a 32 or 34D.” My mouth dropped open. This could not be possible. In all of my many fitting experiences, I measured and even 36B. It was time to hit the fitting room and put her talents to the test.

Susan brought several bras in for me to try, but first educated me on the proper way to put on my bra because apparently, we’ve all been doing it wrong for, well, ever. Just slinging it over each shoulder and snapping it closed, I learned, was not sufficient. Like most tasks, the proper technique makes all the difference. To get the best possible fit and silhouette, you need to bend over about half way, so your girls are hanging loose beneath you. Slide the straps over your shoulders, get your breasts into the cups and then clasp the back (or front) of the bra closed. Susan took me through the short process and when I stood up, every fell perfectly into place. I’ll be damned if she wasn’t right about my size. They don’t call her the Bra Whisperer for nothing. And Susan created a training program for all of Intimacy’s employees so each is as knowledgeable as the next.

I honestly couldn’t stop staring at myself in the mirror as I tried on at least a dozen options. My posture was vastly improved, I seemed to have lost ten pounds in a matter of minutes and was looking at pretty much the most cleavage I’d ever had in my life. Even if you’ve been measured in the past or are relatively comfortable in your current bra, go and get fitted by the experts at Intimacy.

Women of all ages, shapes and sizes will find their fit here and this weekend, bring your Mom (or friend, sister, BFF) and you’ll both receive 15% off the purchase of one life-altering bra. After all, isn’t a gift that boost her confidence the best gift any woman can receive?

SPF

 

 

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Philly Suits Up

Posted on May 10, 2013 by southphillyfashionista

My little brother’s had his share of girlfriends over the years, some I’ve liked more than others. But all had one thing in common: one by one, each and every woman he has dated has thanked me for teaching my brother how to dress himself. Somewhere in high school, I made it my mission to extract him from his ridiculously baggy pants and ripped t-shirts. He’s a good looking guy. But nothing can make a man look less attractive than ill-fitting clothing.

Not all men are so lucky, though, to have a pushy fashion-forward sister, mother, or other family member to take him under her wing. I’ve seen my husband get flustered and frustrated when he can’t pull a perfectly-tailored piece off the rack. No one ever gave him an education on the importance of details like fabric, stitching, buttons, etc. and he had no interest in taking the time to learn about it at this point in his life. Many of my girlfriends have similar stories and none of us has the patience to walk them through it.

A beautiful home for beautiful clothing.

What these gentlemen need is professional help. Lucky for them (and the women they love), a European trend is taking hold in the US and is emerging on the scene here in Philadelphia. SuitSupply opened its new Rittenhouse Square location last week with great fanfare and the most fashionable of crowds in attendance. The 4,300 square foot space is spacious and vibrant. Browse suits, jackets, shirts, shoes, just about every accessory known to man, all made with the finest Italian fabrics and excruciating attention to detail.

Founded in Amsterdam in 2000, the brand has grown quickly, now with 44 stores in Europe and the states, each offering its signature high-quality tailoring and personal service. Indigo-colored wool, linen and silk are at the forefront of SuitSupply’s 2013 Spring/Summer collection with an eye on structure and modern refinement. Colors for this season include burnt orange and faded red with ocher accents, but new merchandise arrives every three to four weeks, keeping the selection fresh.

And alterations at SuitSupply are a breeze. No more taking your suit right from the store to the tailor. The majority of alterations are done on-sight, by a skilled professional, often while you wait. A member of the Fair Wear Foundation (FWF) which promotes good working conditions in clothing factories, SuitSupply also believes that quality is not limited to the actual garment, but includes the manner in which it was produced.

Bottom line: quality clothing makes you look and feel good. How many retailers help you achieve that with ease, individual attention and a clear conscience? SuitSupply is sure to become a Philly standard for the fashionable man.

SPF

 

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Get a Fresh Face for Spring

Posted on May 1, 2013 by southphillyfashionista

Spring. Renewal. Rejuvenation. You’re changing up your look; hair, wardrobe, makeup, the works. Have you considered your skin? It’s an accessory that will be with you the rest of your life. If you take good care of a designer bag, you should take exponentially better care of your skin. The needs of the delicate epidermis depend on a variety of factors, including the climate. Spring is an excellent time to reevaluate your skin care regimen.
Product junkie that I may be, I’ve been in a longer relationship with my facial routine that with my husband. My tolerance for product variations tends to be about three days. Heading into my 30s, I began to notice some tiny bumps around my nose that even the most thorough exfoliation wouldn’t solve. It was around this time in her life that my mother was diagnosed with Rosacea.
When I was offered a free Express Facial Consultation at Rossi Wellness Center recently, I figured it was time to bite the bullet and see what I was dealing with here. I sat down Medical Esthetician, Lois Digirolamo, who explained RWC is a select medical practice focused on each patient’s unique balance of internal genetics and external environment. They believe in a whole body approach to health, combining a range of methods from nutritional supplements to facial injections.
At first she didn’t even notice the bumps (how vain am I?), but after removing my makeup, she assured me she saw no signs of Rosacea. Rather, it was likely that one of the products I’d been using was a little too heavy for my skin. Blemishes were forming, and being trapped under new layers of skin, making them harder to unearth. She recommended exfoliating more frequently and gave me a sample of Glytone Step Up Mild Gel Wash, which she suggested using just a few times a week in the evening. She did NOT try to sell me on the entire line of products or condemn the ones I’ve been using.
We talked about some other options including the effects of Botox and glycolic peels, maybe sometime in the future, if I was interested. The staff at Rossi understand we all want to look good, but they’re not there to pressure you into products or procedures. They help you address your specific concerns and make informed decisions.
I noticed reduced puffiness around my nose after just one use of the product. I was so excited I started using it every day, which dried out my skin just as Lois had predicted. I backed off and used it only once a week, which lessened the effects. Nope, Lois was dead on. I continued using it as she directed and two weeks later, I can see the difference. Not only are the bumps diminishing, my face actually looks more like it did in my youth, fresher, finer, fabulous.
Take a trip to Rossi Wellness Center and the time to reevaluate your skin care regimen. It may be the best thing you do for your look this season.

SPF

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Are You Really What You Eat?

Posted on April 19, 2013 by southphillyfashionista

The 3rd Annual Philadelphia Science Festival kicks off this week, offering more than 100 programs to the Philadelphia public over the next ten days. Don’t think of yourself much of a science buff? Then this event was made for you.

“The premise behind the Science Festival is to engage all Philadelphians, people who don’t necessarily consider themselves scientists in the traditional sense,” said Dennis M. Wint, President and CEO of The Franklin Institute, the event’s organizer. “We want everyone to look at the world around us, at what we eat, drink, read and watch everyday with a sense of curiosity.”

There’s something for everyone – and every age – at this year’s Festival. But, for a Philly restaurant addict like me, there are more than two dozen foodie events on tap:

  • All Things Fermented: The Science of Beer and Cheese. Go “behind the label” of some of Philly’s best microbrews at Manayunk Brewery. The two hour tasting will feature seven draught beers paired with four farmstand cheeses.
  • Five Senses “Pub Crawl.” Check in at the Betsy Ross Houseto start your five-stop crawl exploring the science of the senses, while participating in hands-on activities and enjoying refreshments along the way.

    Ever wondered about the science of beer? (Photo courtesy: Yards Brewing Company.)

  • Clandestine Clad: Real-Life Spy Technology. Chat with a real-life, retire US spy! Try your hand at some real spy craft and enjoy a martini, shaken, not stirred, of course, in classic spy fashion.
  • Sweet and Savory: Hives and Honey. Philadelphia beekeepers will educate you on these incredible insects and the nectar they produce. Check out observation hives to see them in action.
  • Hot, Hot, HOT: The Science of Spicy Food. Some of the spiciest food in the city is served at Han Dynasty. Learn the science that gives their food its kick and test the different remedies to combat their effects.
  • Perceptions of Flavor: An Evening with Shola. The concepts of flavor perception and modern cuisine have changed significantly throughout the course of history. Learn about their past, present and future with four “courses” from Chef Shola Olunloyo.
  • The Sustainable Table: A Dinner Experience. Learn about where and how your food is grown is so important at Riverbend Environmental Education Center. Chef Max Hansen will prepare a four-course meal, highlighting sustainable food.
  • Fun With Fermentation: Kimcheese. The experts at DiBruno Brothers will present pairings of cheese and homemade kimchee. Find out why they typically unrelated ferments are much closer than you think.
  • Beer Chemistry: Perfect Pairings. Explore the malting, milling, mashing and fermenting behind your favorite beers with the master brewers of Yards Brewing Company. Taste and drink your way through five stations of suds and samples from some local eateries. Attendees will also enjoy an open bar.
  • Discover Day: Urban Farming. Thinking about growing your own plants or veggies in a city setting? The hands-on demonstrations at Bartram’s Garden will show you what you need to know before your grow.
  • Science for Sinners.Eat, drink and be wary with talks and entertainment with a science-spin on the seven deadly sins. And keep in mind that gluttony is one of the seven.

    Want a kid's endorsement for the Science Festival? You got it!

In addition, some of Philly’s best gourmet food trucks will be offering refreshments at tomorrow’s free Science Carnival on the parkway. Bring the kids out to explore more than 130 exhibitors, then head over to the Franklin for a taste of ice cream made with liquid nitrogen. The kids in my life gave last year’s carnival a big thumbs up!

The 2013 Philadelphia Science Festival runs from April 18th through 28th. Tickets, reservations for free events and a complete program calendar are available at PhilaScienceFestival.org.

SPF  

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Flavors of the Avenue is Back & Bigger than Ever

Posted on April 11, 2013 by southphillyfashionista

Have you heard the news? This month’s Food and Wine magazine named Philly’s own East Passyunk Avenue one of the best foodie streets in the nation! If you haven’t been to South Philly recently, you may not know about some of the newest additions to the neighborhood. Even if you, it’s hard to keep up! Enter the annual Flavors of the Avenue event. Slated for Saturday April 27 from noon to 4pm, Flavors brings 25 area restaurants together under one tent, offering guests the chance to sample selections from a plethora of proprietors.

Last week, I joined a host of media folks for the Flavors media preview. Four groups were set up to tour different Passyunk spots throughout the evening with each offering a signature dish that will be featured at the main event. My itinerary for the evening included:

  • Noir(1909 E. Passyunk Ave.). Mussels steamed in white wine and a watermelon

    Spring green gazpacho at Will BYOB flows gently into the bowl.

    and feta salad started us off. My favorite was the arancini, stuffed with mozzarella cheese and prosciutto.

  • Will BYOB (1911 E. Passyunk Ave.). I’d heard Will was intimate, but had no idea quite how small. No wonder reservations book so far in advance! Check out the spring green gazpacho with grapes, almonds and verjus.
  • Le Virtu (1927 E. Passyunk Ave.). Unfortunately, it was too cold for us to sit outside on the restaurant’s scenic veranda, but I enjoy the porchetta, locally sourced from Berks County.
  • Fuel (1919 E. Passyunk Ave.). Upon opening on Passyunk, this was one of my favorite places to grab a healthy lunch or a post-yoga smoothie. Seems like some things have changed since then. Because I was invited as a guest, I’ll refrain from further comment here.
  • Ristorante Tre Scalini (1915 E. Passyunk Ave.). I consider myself relatively adventurous in terms of cuisine. I tried the tripe. It wasn’t for me. But many others in my group gushed after its authenticity.
  • Ms. Goody Cupcake (1838 E. Passyunk Ave.). Time for a dessert break! Ms. Goody offered us miniature versions of two store favs: Take Me Out to the Ballpark (a chocolate stout cake with a peanut butter core) and Revenge of the Nerds (tropical cake with butter-cream icing covered in Nerds candy).
  • Stogie Joe’s (1801 E. Passyunk Ave.). Having been an EPA resident for nearly a decade, I’ve been to this old haunt more than a few times. But it’s always for the late-night pizza. This time, the meatball sandwich was on the menu and may have replaced my old standby menu item.

Ms. Goody's Revenge of the Nerds cupcakes. The 80s never tasted so good.

We ended the evening with all groups converging at Paradiso for a night-cap. There are myriad additional restaurants (including the not-yet-opened Noord) getting in on the action (click here for a full list of participants). But the entire neighborhood joins in the Flavors fun, filling the street with vendors, live music and a craft market at the famous Singing Fountain.

VIP tickets are already sold-out, but a few general admission tickets are still available and include access to the tent as well as wine and craft beer. Flavors always draws a crowd and South Philly parking is often a challenge. It would be a great time to take advantage of East Passyunk’s recently-debuted valet service ($8 for ticket holders) or taxi stand for ease of access. Proceeds go towards the East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District’s public safety program.

SPF

 

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Celebrate Spring with Arcadia

Posted on April 5, 2013 by southphillyfashionista

Spring fever: I’ve got it. How about you? I think we’re all ready for warmer temps here in Philly. While the calendar may say it’s spring, the weather hasn’t quite caught up with the season. This makes it tough to coordinate a seasonally-appropriate outfit and not freeze your tush off. It’s too warm for a heavy sweater, but too cool for bare legs. Seems to me to be the perfect excuse to go shopping!

 

The Summer Print Maxi from Costa Blanca, on sale at Arcadia now.

Arcadia Boutique’s Vintage Garden party and Trunk Show this weekend couldn’t come at a better time. As part of Northern Liberties’ First Friday festivities today, April 5, the shop will feature a meet and greet with two local designers as well as a vintage trunk show. As part of the newly expanded vintage department, Nana Pat Project will be on hand with vintage clothing and accessories. Pairing the old with the new, designer Tessa Kennedy of New Histories Jewelry will also feature one-of-a-kind jewelry.

Not only will you get the chance to enjoy cocktails and snacks with new faces on the Philly fashion scene, shoppers will get 15% off brand new spring merchandise. Arcadia will also be raffling off two $50 gift cards so you can get a jump on stocking your spring wardrobe.

NoLibs First Friday takes place every from 5 to 8pm with nearly two dozen local businesses offering 10% off along with a variety of specials and surprises. It’s going to be a beautiful evening, perfect for taking a stroll, exploring the neighborhood and saving some dough. Can’t make it tonight? You can still take advantage of the Arcadia sale online with code “BUTTERFLY.”

Happy Shopping!

SPF

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Try Defying Gravity

Posted on April 2, 2013 by southphillyfashionista

My mother used to say I like to “flirt with danger.”  She was always a bit overprotective, which is likely the reason I’ve always been on the hunt for adventure. Given her trepidation, I decided I wouldn’t tell her about my flying trapeze lesson until after the fact.

Last week, I joined a small group of local media professionals for a two-hour class on the flying trapeze. As part of Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts, Fly School Circus Arts has set up shop in the University of the Arts parking lot on Broad St. Anyone can register for classes, but a few were reserved for press. I’m not afraid to admit, when I saw the rigging, I was intimidated, but soon discovered I wasn’t alone. My classmates – Philadelphia Style’s Kristin Detterline, Philly.com’s Maria Papadakis and Fashion of Philly’s Brittiny Stewart – were all just as unnerved. Marisa Magnatta, from WMMR’s Preston & Steve Show, had taken the class last year and gave us all a pep talk.

Photo credit: Rebecca Stark.

The lovely Mary Kelly Rayel served as our coach for the day and began by taking us through the basics on the low bar, only a few feet off the ground. We practiced the important postures, flipping our knees over the bar and pulling ourselves upright again. It didn’t seem like very long before we were approaching the ladder. All of us were equipped with a safety belt that would be keep us harnessed for the length of each “flight.”

Photo credit: Rebecca Stark.

The ladder bounced with every step up to the platform, about three stories high. I found the hardest part to be actually jumping off. Once you do that, you don’t really have a choice but to swing. I wasn’t sure I had the upper body strength necessary to maneuver myself about in the air, but soon discovered I could use the momentum of the swing to help me. I went up a second time, a third, a fourth … I was starting to like this.

The final phase of the day’s training was to attempt a “catch.” SATC fans will remember this was Carrie Bradshaw’s downfall and I almost chickened out. Marisa chimed in again, though, and convinced me I had to at least give it a shot. I’m happy to say I was successfully caught and left the class with an unbelievable high (pardon the pun). It took a full 12 hours for the adrenaline rush to stop, but I sported an ear-to-ear grin for days.

Photo credit: HugheE Dillon, PhillyChitChat.com.

The feeling of flipping myself about while flying through the air was so exhilarating, I didn’t realize how much exercise I was getting. While some muscle soreness did set in the next day, it was nothing more than what I would feel after an intense yoga class, but with much more impressive bragging rights.

Fly School Circus Arts will continue to offer classes on Broad St. for the duration of PIFA (March 28 – April 27). It’s a great chance to flirt with danger without making a lifetime commitment.

SPF

*Special thanks to Kory Aversa for offering me this unique opportunity and to PhillyChitChat for capturing every moment with his lens!

 

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