So like any other typical, fame-seeking, American girl, it's been my dream since the wee age of 12 to be on a reality TV show, specifically "The Real World". (Statistically it's harder to be cast on the show than to be admitted into Harvard...America...) Well friends, I'm getting old and am about to enter my last year of eligibility age-wise to become a reality whore on "The Real World". Sensing this and wanting to destroy my destiny, Bunim Murray Productions has scheduled the yearly New York City open casting call for the one weekend when I will be making a trip home to the great city of Pittsburgh. Erego not being in NYC on the date of the casting, erego not being able to be on the show, erego ruining my life! It's not fair! *stomps foot, throws tantrum* I've already auditioned twice and been rejected twice, third time's the charm, yes? No. Third time is mercilessly ripped away from me.
And I will not be one of those whores who puts their video on the internets for the public to vote...I'm looking at you, Greg from RW Hollywood...
9.24.2008
9.19.2008
Popping my fashion week cherry...
…and it was everything I’d always hoped it would be ;)
Last week was Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in NYC, and for those who have never experienced it, it’s everything you’d expect…and nothing you’d expect at the same time. The famed tents in Bryant Park are pretty amazing, not gonna lie. You’d never even realize you were technically in the great outdoors. The shows themselves are also every bit as glam as they look, and the models are every bit as skinny as they look. It made crave a Baconator.
What I was not prepared for was the process of fashion week. You arrive at the show, stand around for at least 15 minutes before they even let you in, and then even once you get in you may or may not actually have a seat. It all depends on how important you are…which I’m not. And thus I slump to the standing room in the back. Then the show never starts on time. Never. So all in all you’re standing around (in 5 inch heels…obvi) waiting for at least 30 minutes before the show even starts. The actual show is no more than 15 minutes long. At best. Allllll that waiting around inflicting pain unto the balls of your poor little tootsies for 15 minutes of couture that may or may not actually even be worth seeing. The process is exhausting. I was drained by the end of the week.
I know, I know, my life sounds sooooo terrible and difficult last week standing around watching 17-year-old anno models walk around in designer clothes. Well it’s harder than it looks dammit!
But I assure you that I’m not taking this for granted, I know it seems very glam and fun, and it is. Let me remind you, going into this season I was a fashion week virgin. And even at the beginning of the week I had ZERO invites, and then ended up at 4 shows. Thus is the magic and subterfuge of fashion week.
A co-worker gave me 2 “non-transferable” invites she wasn’t using (Charlotte Ronson and Benjamin Cho). So I went to these shows pretending to be her. Thank goodness no one at fashion week cards. Except for business card-ing…oops! “I’m so sorry, I don’t have any cards under my name…I’m actually just representing VK…I’m her co-worker/assistant/beneficiary…My name’s actually…” Somehow I still got in. I’ve come to realize they must get tons of these scenarios. No harm, no foul. And this actually got me a 3rd row seat at Benjamin Cho, right across from Mary Kate Olsen! Alas, at Char-Ro I was stuffed way too far back into standing room to get a glimpse of Li-Lo and Sam-Ro. Sigh…
Then I was sent through my job to the Malan Breton (former “Project Runway” contestant) show to interview him, getting to use my very own name! I guess I’m moving up in the world. Sat 2nd row and the show was amazing, beautiful evening gowns and elegantly flirty casual wear. Loves it! Alex and Simon van Kempen of “The Real Housewives of NYC” were in attendance…and will obviously do anything for a photo-op and a hot sec of attention. After the show, I was escorted to the super-private Mercedes Benz VIP lounge for the interview. All of a sudden I went from getting into shows under someone else’s name to totally ballin out on my own accord. Too bad it was 10:30am and I was working…that champagne looked pretty damn tempting. Malan was such a sweetheart and it was a pleasure to interview him…VIP room or no VIP room.
I still have no idea how I pulled it off, but through some sweet talking and identity stealing I somehow got into the hot-ticket Project Runway finale fashion show. Don’t ask don’t tell. Had to stand in my Michael Kors stilettos (just in case he saw) on the press riser for like an hour and a half, but it was worth it. Pro-Ro actually lasts about 45 minutes since 6 designers show collections…they try desperately to keep the identity of the 3 finalists secret. I’m sure there are tons of other reviews and spoilers out there so I won’t bore you to death with my humble opinions, dear reader, but let’s just say Jerrell or Leanne better win this shit.
And that, loves, is fashion week. And I’m still soaking my feet from shoe abuse.
Last week was Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in NYC, and for those who have never experienced it, it’s everything you’d expect…and nothing you’d expect at the same time. The famed tents in Bryant Park are pretty amazing, not gonna lie. You’d never even realize you were technically in the great outdoors. The shows themselves are also every bit as glam as they look, and the models are every bit as skinny as they look. It made crave a Baconator.
What I was not prepared for was the process of fashion week. You arrive at the show, stand around for at least 15 minutes before they even let you in, and then even once you get in you may or may not actually have a seat. It all depends on how important you are…which I’m not. And thus I slump to the standing room in the back. Then the show never starts on time. Never. So all in all you’re standing around (in 5 inch heels…obvi) waiting for at least 30 minutes before the show even starts. The actual show is no more than 15 minutes long. At best. Allllll that waiting around inflicting pain unto the balls of your poor little tootsies for 15 minutes of couture that may or may not actually even be worth seeing. The process is exhausting. I was drained by the end of the week.
I know, I know, my life sounds sooooo terrible and difficult last week standing around watching 17-year-old anno models walk around in designer clothes. Well it’s harder than it looks dammit!
But I assure you that I’m not taking this for granted, I know it seems very glam and fun, and it is. Let me remind you, going into this season I was a fashion week virgin. And even at the beginning of the week I had ZERO invites, and then ended up at 4 shows. Thus is the magic and subterfuge of fashion week.
A co-worker gave me 2 “non-transferable” invites she wasn’t using (Charlotte Ronson and Benjamin Cho). So I went to these shows pretending to be her. Thank goodness no one at fashion week cards. Except for business card-ing…oops! “I’m so sorry, I don’t have any cards under my name…I’m actually just representing VK…I’m her co-worker/assistant/beneficiary…My name’s actually…” Somehow I still got in. I’ve come to realize they must get tons of these scenarios. No harm, no foul. And this actually got me a 3rd row seat at Benjamin Cho, right across from Mary Kate Olsen! Alas, at Char-Ro I was stuffed way too far back into standing room to get a glimpse of Li-Lo and Sam-Ro. Sigh…
Then I was sent through my job to the Malan Breton (former “Project Runway” contestant) show to interview him, getting to use my very own name! I guess I’m moving up in the world. Sat 2nd row and the show was amazing, beautiful evening gowns and elegantly flirty casual wear. Loves it! Alex and Simon van Kempen of “The Real Housewives of NYC” were in attendance…and will obviously do anything for a photo-op and a hot sec of attention. After the show, I was escorted to the super-private Mercedes Benz VIP lounge for the interview. All of a sudden I went from getting into shows under someone else’s name to totally ballin out on my own accord. Too bad it was 10:30am and I was working…that champagne looked pretty damn tempting. Malan was such a sweetheart and it was a pleasure to interview him…VIP room or no VIP room.
I still have no idea how I pulled it off, but through some sweet talking and identity stealing I somehow got into the hot-ticket Project Runway finale fashion show. Don’t ask don’t tell. Had to stand in my Michael Kors stilettos (just in case he saw) on the press riser for like an hour and a half, but it was worth it. Pro-Ro actually lasts about 45 minutes since 6 designers show collections…they try desperately to keep the identity of the 3 finalists secret. I’m sure there are tons of other reviews and spoilers out there so I won’t bore you to death with my humble opinions, dear reader, but let’s just say Jerrell or Leanne better win this shit.
And that, loves, is fashion week. And I’m still soaking my feet from shoe abuse.
8.16.2008
So I must give a belated mention for my fab friend Andrea Lavinthal and her co-author Jessica Rozler for the release of their new book "Friend or Frenemy?". It was released Aug 5 and you all simply must go get it. I attended the book party last week and it was a great night. Notably in attendance was Whitney Thompson, winner of America's Next Top Model cycle 10, and overall a very gorg crowd at a very gorg party. Congrats girls!
PS - Though it may not seem that way based on this blog, I do more with my life than stalk Top Model winners...really...
PS - Though it may not seem that way based on this blog, I do more with my life than stalk Top Model winners...really...
7.27.2008
Celeb sighting
Spotted: Danielle Evans, winner of America's Next Top Model cycle 6, on the 1 train this afternoon. So gorg in person! Wearing a flowy tank top, leggings, and gladiator sandals. She was with who appeared to be her parents for a day on the town. They were all upbeat and seemed to be having a great time (she still has the trademark southern accent). She even rested her head on her dad's shoulder...adorable.
7.18.2008
This past weekend brought me to the East Village/Lower East Side for a string of birthday celebrations. (Isn’t it just wonderful to have a fall birthday and spend your summers bouncing from party to party where the birthday girl gets to look hot in her skimpy little birthday dress, while you practically have to wear a snowsuit when your own finally rolls around? Yah, I thought you felt my pain and jealousy…)
First stop:
Lunasa
East Village
126 First Avenue (b/w 7th Street and St Marks Place)
New York, NY 10009
212-228-8580
www.lunasabar.com
On my way to meet up with a friend at Lunasa, I’m already getting a text saying that prospects are low and we may switch locales soon. Translation: no cute guys. Surprising, considering I had heard Lunasa had quite the beer selection. This proves to be true…along with the fact that despite the no-frills atmosphere, there were indeed very few men worth pursuing. I’m lonely, single and on the prowl tonight, so this is not what I wanted to find. However, despite the lack of eligible gentlemen at Lunasa, I was able to enjoy myself while there. The music was good but not overpowering, allowing socialization with the group I was meeting up with at Lunasa (obvi not making any new, um, “friends”). They have an outdoor patio in the back which can be reserved for private events, and despite considering themselves an “Irish Pub”, the crowd is young and there’s no signs of spillage or bodily fluids on the floor…bonus! Anywhere in Manhattan that has a $7 glass of house champagne listed in chalk writing next to an extensive beer list is worthy of my seal of approval.
Rating: 3 stars
After making a long and unnecessary trek alllll the way to the LES (don’t mock me, I’m in heels) to another birthday party only to discover the line is long and unworthy of our time and energy, we stop for a hot second each at:
Libation
Lower East Side
137 Ludlow Street (b/w Stanton and Rivington Streets)
New York, NY 10002
212-529-2153
www.libationnyc.com
Tonight the line at Libation was long and we couldn’t bat our eyelashes to get out of the $10 covercharge ($20 for guys). Were we going in? Hells to the no! It’s my personal belief that nowhere in the LES should charge cover, but I digress. However, I have been to Libation in the past, so I shall report. Once you get in and navigate your way through the confusing labyrinth of hallways and staircases housing the coatcheck and bathroom, you’ll be faced with something totally new and different for the Lower East Side…a club *gasp*. I hate to admit it because this place takes itself way too seriously and is going to eat up any compliment I give them, but I actually had a great time! The DJ was playing a great mix of old and new danceable songs, accompanied by a live drummer adding his spin and giving the pop hits an interesting and unique intensity. We danced all night, stopping only to let potential suitors buy drinks (and there were a plenty…just not any worth talking to for more than the obligatory 5 minutes). Despite the B&T girls dancing on the couches and showcasing dance moves that only 10 cranberry vodkas can induce, Libation is a good time…if only it can get over itself.
Rating: 4 stars
Local 138
Lower East Side
138 Ludlow Street (b/w Stanton and Rivington Streets)
New York, NY 10002
212-477-0280
When I say we were in Local 138 for a “hot sec”, I’m not exaggerating. First impression: loud and lots of wood…and not in a good way. I personally am willing to stay for a beer, but my friends were so not feelin it. Despite the “manly” décor and pub atmosphere, the clientele seemed to be mostly sorority girls in too much eyeliner and too little dresses. Admittedly I was in Local 138 for no longer than 3 minutes, so I’m willing to be open minded and not completely write it off. But…I’m not exactly going to make a special trip to give it a second chance.
Rating: 2 stars
Pianos
Lower East Side
158 Ludlow Street (b/w Stanton and Rivington Streets)
New York, NY 10002
212-505-3733
www.pianosnyc.com
I’ve read many other reviews which have described Pianos as “trendy”, “spacious” and my personal favorite “a live music club that makes fashionistas feel at home.” Don’t believe these. This place is one step above a total mob scene. They feature live bands which thank goodness were between sets when we made our appearance. None the less, the music was way too loud to even have your drink order heard clearly. Most of the clientele were in need of a good shower…gross. When I saw one patron spit on the floor (and it was a nice juicy one too), I knew it was time to leave. But if hanging out with dirty, spitting, degenerates is your thing, then by all means…
Rating: 1 star
The Sixth Ward
Lower East Side
191 Orchard Street (b/w Houston and Stanton Streets)
New York, NY 10002
212-228-9888
www.sixthwardnyc.com
The Sixth Ward is a great standby for when all other bars in this highly dense area fail to please. Though admittedly there’s nothing standout about this place, it has a lot working in its favor: good beer selection, good music, a cute little outdoor patio in the back, pool table, dirty-sexy bartenders, and most importantly: an overwhelming guy to girl ratio. Score! You will never want for male attention at The Sixth Ward. You may have to fight off a few skeezers, but I’ve never walked out of this bar with less than 7 new digits in my phone from an eligible prospect. The crowd can be hit or miss, ranging from “OMG I can’t move or breathe or make it to the bar/bathroom” to “Where did all the hotties go?”, but none the less, The Sixth Ward has never disappointed.
Rating: 3.5 stars
First stop:
Lunasa
East Village
126 First Avenue (b/w 7th Street and St Marks Place)
New York, NY 10009
212-228-8580
www.lunasabar.com
On my way to meet up with a friend at Lunasa, I’m already getting a text saying that prospects are low and we may switch locales soon. Translation: no cute guys. Surprising, considering I had heard Lunasa had quite the beer selection. This proves to be true…along with the fact that despite the no-frills atmosphere, there were indeed very few men worth pursuing. I’m lonely, single and on the prowl tonight, so this is not what I wanted to find. However, despite the lack of eligible gentlemen at Lunasa, I was able to enjoy myself while there. The music was good but not overpowering, allowing socialization with the group I was meeting up with at Lunasa (obvi not making any new, um, “friends”). They have an outdoor patio in the back which can be reserved for private events, and despite considering themselves an “Irish Pub”, the crowd is young and there’s no signs of spillage or bodily fluids on the floor…bonus! Anywhere in Manhattan that has a $7 glass of house champagne listed in chalk writing next to an extensive beer list is worthy of my seal of approval.
Rating: 3 stars
After making a long and unnecessary trek alllll the way to the LES (don’t mock me, I’m in heels) to another birthday party only to discover the line is long and unworthy of our time and energy, we stop for a hot second each at:
Libation
Lower East Side
137 Ludlow Street (b/w Stanton and Rivington Streets)
New York, NY 10002
212-529-2153
www.libationnyc.com
Tonight the line at Libation was long and we couldn’t bat our eyelashes to get out of the $10 covercharge ($20 for guys). Were we going in? Hells to the no! It’s my personal belief that nowhere in the LES should charge cover, but I digress. However, I have been to Libation in the past, so I shall report. Once you get in and navigate your way through the confusing labyrinth of hallways and staircases housing the coatcheck and bathroom, you’ll be faced with something totally new and different for the Lower East Side…a club *gasp*. I hate to admit it because this place takes itself way too seriously and is going to eat up any compliment I give them, but I actually had a great time! The DJ was playing a great mix of old and new danceable songs, accompanied by a live drummer adding his spin and giving the pop hits an interesting and unique intensity. We danced all night, stopping only to let potential suitors buy drinks (and there were a plenty…just not any worth talking to for more than the obligatory 5 minutes). Despite the B&T girls dancing on the couches and showcasing dance moves that only 10 cranberry vodkas can induce, Libation is a good time…if only it can get over itself.
Rating: 4 stars
Local 138
Lower East Side
138 Ludlow Street (b/w Stanton and Rivington Streets)
New York, NY 10002
212-477-0280
When I say we were in Local 138 for a “hot sec”, I’m not exaggerating. First impression: loud and lots of wood…and not in a good way. I personally am willing to stay for a beer, but my friends were so not feelin it. Despite the “manly” décor and pub atmosphere, the clientele seemed to be mostly sorority girls in too much eyeliner and too little dresses. Admittedly I was in Local 138 for no longer than 3 minutes, so I’m willing to be open minded and not completely write it off. But…I’m not exactly going to make a special trip to give it a second chance.
Rating: 2 stars
Pianos
Lower East Side
158 Ludlow Street (b/w Stanton and Rivington Streets)
New York, NY 10002
212-505-3733
www.pianosnyc.com
I’ve read many other reviews which have described Pianos as “trendy”, “spacious” and my personal favorite “a live music club that makes fashionistas feel at home.” Don’t believe these. This place is one step above a total mob scene. They feature live bands which thank goodness were between sets when we made our appearance. None the less, the music was way too loud to even have your drink order heard clearly. Most of the clientele were in need of a good shower…gross. When I saw one patron spit on the floor (and it was a nice juicy one too), I knew it was time to leave. But if hanging out with dirty, spitting, degenerates is your thing, then by all means…
Rating: 1 star
The Sixth Ward
Lower East Side
191 Orchard Street (b/w Houston and Stanton Streets)
New York, NY 10002
212-228-9888
www.sixthwardnyc.com
The Sixth Ward is a great standby for when all other bars in this highly dense area fail to please. Though admittedly there’s nothing standout about this place, it has a lot working in its favor: good beer selection, good music, a cute little outdoor patio in the back, pool table, dirty-sexy bartenders, and most importantly: an overwhelming guy to girl ratio. Score! You will never want for male attention at The Sixth Ward. You may have to fight off a few skeezers, but I’ve never walked out of this bar with less than 7 new digits in my phone from an eligible prospect. The crowd can be hit or miss, ranging from “OMG I can’t move or breathe or make it to the bar/bathroom” to “Where did all the hotties go?”, but none the less, The Sixth Ward has never disappointed.
Rating: 3.5 stars
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