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Monday
Mar222010

The Bird and the Bee: A Tribute to Daryl Hall and John Oates

The Bird and the Bee is back with a cool new album! For those who are nostalgic for the 70s and 80s, their new release, Interpreting the Masters Volume 1: A Tribute to Daryl Hall and John Oates, is a loving homage to Hall & Oates' greatest hits.

Get ready to bop along with these reinvented songs. As the title indicates, these are not plain old covers. With Inara George's pretty airy vocals and Greg Kurstin's pop electronica arrangements, these two spun out an honest and personal interpretation of the music legends.

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I thought "I Can't Go For That" was really well done. Same thing goes for "Private Eyes" and "Kiss On My List." Their version of "Maneater" isn't nearly as intense as the original version, but as a treat for Garbage fans they got Shirley Manson to perform backup vocals.

There is one original track from The Bird and the Bee, which is also the opening track ("Heard It On The Radio"). The peppy pop song does a perfect job of introducing the younger generations to Hall & Oates' awesome songwriting.

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Photo Credit: Brigitte Sires

Alas, vocalist Inara George is about to have a baby any day now, so it will be a while before they perform again. Their concerts are fun - their backup singers put on these cute dance moves and the fans love to sing along with the duo.

For more info on them, head over to thebirdandthebee.com and bluenote.com.

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Friday
Mar192010

Vosges Easter Eggs

I'm always down for anything made with bacon or chocolate. Vosges answered my little prayer and came up with the new Bacon and Eggs for Easter. Not only are they pretty to look at, these are some mighty fine treats. Soft, gooey, bacon caramel is swirled into 55% dark chocolate eggshells. What more could you ask for? You get salt, sugar, butter, bacon and chocolate, all in one bite! vosges_easter.png Now, if you want to make a big statement for Easter, the Enchanted Mushroom will do the trick. Standing 6 inches tall (weighing 1.3 pounds), this centerpiece dessert is made with 55% dark chocolate praline and organic Reishi mushroom. The white chocolate shell is decorated with cute red dots. Although it's tempting to eat the whole thing yourself, I suggest sharing some lest you gain a few more inches around your waist. vosges_mushroom.png www.vosgeschocolate.com For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

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Thursday
Mar182010

IFB Links a la Mode - Rants & Raves

Rants & Raves

Edited by Ashe Mischief I was taken aback when going through the submissions this week - there were so many powerful, strong, opinionated pieces that I felt really taken aback. With overwhelming positivity or negativity, the fashion community is finding its voice - and making themselves heard! The fashion community is great at sharing the voice of others, and we've got several fabulous interviews to prove it. From Derek Lam at Poetic & Chic to White Rabbit's interview with Irish woman Sinead Doyle (along with my own interview with Amelia Arsenic at Dramatis Personae), there are voices for everyone. We've got bloggers ranting on the lack of premium denim in plus-sizes at Denim Debutante; some showcased inspirational figures like KOOS (at M.I.S.S.), Philip Crangi (at Eternal Masquerade), and Maria Felix (at Jewelry Whore). Check out the full listing of Links √† la Mode here. links_IFB_0318.10.jpg Bachman's Sparrow - DIY post on how to use bleach to revamp your 'unloved' clothes! blackdog finds:- How To: 10 Creative Ways to Revive Less-Than-Loved Clothing Denim Debutante: - Guest Blog: Is there Size Discrimination in Premium Denim? dramatis personae: - Amelia Arsenic's Miss X Aesthetic Laboratories & Interview Fashion Hippo - Win Marc by Marc Jacobs Leola Bow Wow Handbag Fashion Pulse Daily: - Not Your Daughter's Jeans: Fit for a Mother AND a Daughter? fete a fete: – Whimsical spring designs from Spain's beloved Camper shoes Forty Not Out: - Louis Vuitton: Fall Winter 2010/2011 Grechen Blogs: - Are you incorporating video into your blog? How is it working for you? Independent Fashion Bloggers - A New Map of the Two-Way Street: Why Giving Back to the Blogosphere is Key to Growth jesse.anne.o: - How do you swap, thrift or buy resale and NOT get bedbugs? Jewelry Whore: - The Fabulous Jewels of Maria Felix, La Dona M.I.S.S.: -Eyes To The Sky: Before BOHO There Was KOOS. Obsession: - How I Met Design Duo of Giles & Brother, Philip and Courtney Crangi Oranges and Apples: - Sustainable fashion part 2: thinking about speed Poetic & Chic: - A candid interview with Derek Lam, fellow San Franciscan and fellow high school alumni! Pretty Shiny Sparkly: - It's leather. It's quilted. It's a computer, for fashionistas. Style Symmetry: - Interview with the Stylish Sisters of Beckerman Bite Plate The Thinking Fashionista: - In-depth, critical look at the Russian Futurist themes of Viktor & Rolf's Fall 2010 show. The Working Man:- Incorporating Spring Into Your Working Look White Rabbit: - Interview with Irish fashion designer Sinead Doyle & the inspiration behind her S/S 2010 collection

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Thursday
Mar182010

Nombe - Tasty Japanese Small Plates

As we all know, the Mission is ground zero for the street food movement. That's why it's no surprise that Nombe, an Izakaya-style eatery, decided to join in on the fun. Relatively new to the local food scene, the restaurant used to be an old diner, so the quirky retro vibe adds to the convivial atmosphere. The word nombe literally means 'drunk guy.' With a drink menu boasting 75 sakes, you are forewarned. nombe.jpg Chef Nick Balla (formerly of O Izakaya Lounge) knows what he's doing behind the stoves. The Japanese fusion small plates present strong flavors for the palate, so you'll walk away happy. We liked the pork belly a lot, but many of our favorites were vegetable-based. The roasted beets with grated wasabi, butternut squash tempura roll with green tea salt, gem lettuce salad, and brussels sprouts with mint, carrot and togarashi were all standouts. nombe_skewers.jpg For dessert, we highly recommend the fantastically airy yuzu jam beignets. Topped with a generous serving of creme fraiche, it's a decadent ending to a tasty meal. They also offer an affordable brunch on weekends, serving traditional Japanese breakfast items like broiled black cod and spicy Charu Ramen. Their version of the Tuna Melt is made with poached ahi tuna, grilled sourdough and cheddar cheese. www.nombesf.com For editorial consideration, a press visit was provided for this review.

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Wednesday
Mar172010

Eminence Immuni-Tea Collection

I got to try out some new Spring products from Eminence and, as expected, they are as yummy as ever. The Immuni-Tea Collection is a blend of Eastern ingredients and Western skincare philosophy. Green tea, lychee, guava and bamboo are the star players in this lineup. To rebuild elasticity, the hydrating Guava & Bamboo Age-Defying Moisturizer will fortify the skin with antioxidant-rich bamboo. Guava is rich in carotenoids, so this winning combo will keep your face youthful and pretty. I like the rich texture a lot - it goes on nicely and is quickly absorbed. ImmuniTea_eminence.JPG If you have swollen legs or varicose veins, the Lychee & Chestnut Firming Leg Treatment is your new best friend. Horse chestnut and butcher’s broom will help improve circulation and reduce visible signs of varicose veins. Lychee fruit is also added to relieve the soreness and swelling. It's not really Spring unless you have a citrus-based product! Their Lime Cleansing Masque is a 2-in-1 cleanser and restoring masque for all skin types. This invigorating masque is meant to be used in the shower or bath. Green, white and rooibos teas will nourish the skin with their high levels of antioxidants while the zippy lime juice will brighten up your day. On a separate but very important note, Eminence has set up a donation website with the Canadian Red Cross for the Haiti earthquake victims. They will match a portion of funds raised through this website and so far they've reached 8% of their goal. If you can help in any way, please visit this site. For more info, visit here. eminenceorganics.com For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

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Tuesday
Mar162010

Meaghan Smith - The Cricket's Orchestra

Maybe it's the swing dancer in me, but I just adore Meaghan Smith's charmingly timeless voice. Her full length debut album, The Cricket's Orchestra, brings you back to the era of big band orchestras.
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Describing her style as 'modern vintage,' Smith's pretty looks remind me of Zooey Deschanel. Her "Heartbroken" track makes me wanna jump up for a dance. My other favorites are "If You Asked Me," "A Little Love," "I Know" and "You Got Out." There's a touch of country in "Drifted Apart" and "Poor" shows off her modern songwriting ability.

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Her music videos are real adorable, with Technicolor backdrops and animated cartoon characters. Check this one out for "A Little Love."

Smith also has a fun cover video of the Pixies song "Here Comes Your Man." This was featured in the film (500) Days of Summer.

You can also listen to her lovely vocals here and at www.meaghansmith.com.

Monday
Mar152010

Camper Shoes S/S 2010

Oh, I wish I'd never looked at the Camper website. Really, I did try to resist but their siren call was just too strong. Some of their Spring/Summer 2010 shoes are way too cute for words. Their quirky flats from the TWS (Twins) collection are always popular. I'm guessing these new ones will sell out fairly quickly. camper_TWS_suede.pngcamper_TWS2010.png TWS Multi-colored suede flat sandal & Grey blue suede flat sandal with scallop detail These darling ballet flats are screen printed with butterflies, bees, and flowers. Sooo pretty. I imagine gamines everywhere would want these as part of their new spring wardrobe. Given my semi-klutzy tendencies, I do wonder if the print will be easily scratched up from normal wear. camper_TWS_2010.pngcamper_TWS.png Ballet flat with screen print (black leather & yellow suede) Upon closer examination, it seems that the insects are embroidered onto the leather. This is why this shoe company has been around since 1877. From their whimsical designs on their rubber soles to their seemingly mismatched details, their unique design sensibility truly stands out from the rest. camper_detail.png Since I already own four pairs of Campers, I can't really splurge on these new designs. I have to exercise some self control! shop.camper.com

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Friday
Mar122010

Annette Shapewear

If you've been way naughty with your diet and exercise (goodbye New Year's resolutions), Annette Shapewear has the tools to tone up your body. I especially liked the High Back Bodyshaper with Legs from their Secret Weapons line. The seamless high back design will smooth out that extra back flesh. It's also designed to be worn with your favorite bra - the side panels will push your cleavage up to enhance the silhouette (without having to buy a special push-up bra). There's no buckling so your torso doesn't have that icky bumpy look. The molded seat panels really do lift up your butt. You don't even have to suck in your tummy. I wore this under a thin cotton dress and it worked out nicely. annette_shapewear.png If you're a thong girl there's a bodyshaper with a thong back so you can avoid panty lines. This one has a built in wire bra with removable cups. For the voluptuous gals, the Diva Defined adjustable shapewear collection also has some great options to try. Both of the Top Notch Diva Slimming Camisole and Diva Express Long Leg Thigh Shaper have a hidden adjustable belt in the back panel so you can control the level of shaping you need. Depending on what you're looking for, you can adjust it for light to firm control. annette_bodyshaper.png I had tried shapewear a long time ago and it just wasn't comfy at all. I was pleasantly surprised by the comfortable feel of these pieces. At the very least, you'll look like you shrunk a size. Time to bring that skinny dress out of the closet! annetteonline.com For editorial consideration, a product sample was provided for this review.

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Thursday
Mar112010

IFB Links a la Mode - Spring Fever

Spring Fever

Edited by Jennine Jacob Do you get spring fever? Oh man...the itch to run around outside in flowery prints and frilly laces gets greater and greater each passing day. To heck with chunky sweaters! This week we have a load of great spring style posts, Holier Than Now checks out cape coats, if you're strapped for cash Out of Order gives the perfect 45min spring skirt tutorial, so cute! And girly clothes not your thing? The Demoiselles has a great homage to genderbending unisex looks. I've been thinking of doing a couple of days in menswear myself. Well, as soon as I learn how to tie the half Windsor knot. There were so, so many great links this week, it really was hard to narrow it down to 20. Check out the full listing of Links à la Mode here. IFB_links_03.11.10.jpg 39th and Broadway - Death By Over-Scheduling Agent Lover - Mad Crushin' on Pebelle Bobbins and Bombshells - Shop News...Hand Recovery Sale AND Giveaway! Denim Debutante - Denim Advice: Why Should I Buy Premium Denim? Diary Of A Girl Left Behind - Sorry We Don't Have Your (Shoe) Size Fashion Pulse Daily - London Fashion Week: Vivienne Westwood, Mark Fast & Burberry Prorsum Fete a Fete - The Frye Company: Spring/Summer 2010 boots & shoes! Glossary - Sipping tea with Sandra Beijer Grechen Blogs - Isabel Marant, the Internet & Social Media grit and glamour - Return to pretty, please! Hello Beauty! - Shu Uemura Spring Égérie Collection: rock star chic (with makeup video) Holier Than Now - Spring (Transition) Shopping : Caped Crusaders Independent Fashion Bloggers - What does your ideal workspace look like? M.I.S.S. - Women Making History: Elisa Palomino Oranges and Apples - Sustainable fashion part 1: conceptualizing the issues Out Of Order - DIY Tutorial: Spring Skirt Previously Owned - a PREVIEW of Private ARTS la shooting for MINT mag! Retro Chick - Vintage Hair Video Tutorial SF Indie Fashion - Good Looks: Moody Winter-Almost-Spring Shrimp Salad Circus - how to rock orange lips Smiles Go With Everything - How to Search Effectively on Etsy The Demoiselles - Gender-Bending: Menswear

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Wednesday
Mar102010

Spring Accessories From Coach

I'm so glad that floral designs are in for Spring fashion. Coach has some adorable jewelry that feature shiny, glitzy flower-shaped pieces. These would go so well with springtime dresses and skirts. flower_necklace_coach.pngCoach_ring.png Daphne Flower Y Necklace & Stone Flower Ring I also like this sequined silk ponytail scarf. So very retro. You can wear it in your hair, around your neck, or tie it on your purse. I can see myself wearing one for an Easter brunch, or while riding a bike on a sunny day. Spring officially begins next weekend - I'm so excited! coach_ponytail_scarf.png Multi Bias Texture Op Art Ponytail Scarf See more styles at www.coach.com.

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