Loves it! How could anyone not? Haters...

230 Fifth
Flatiron District
230 Fifth Avenue (b/w 26th and 27th Streets)
New York, NY 10001
212-725-4300
www.230-fifth.com

230 Fifth is honestly one of my favorite bars in New York, the only reason I can't give it a perfect score is because of the slightly overpriced drinks (trust me, I've seen much worse). But now onto the great parts, most notably the view. 230 Fifth is an upscale bi-level lounge inhabiting the enclosed 20th floor and beautiful open-air rooftop garden of the address. Being mere blocks from the Empire State Building, this amounts to 230 Fifth offering by far the best view of any rooftop bar that I've come across in Manhattan. The music and decor are sexy and trendy, and despite some contradictory reports I've never seen anyone have a problem making it past the door (for the most part, the line is simply waiting for an elevator). The crowd at 230 Fifth is varied in personal style, age AND ethnicity, and for the most part very charismatic and social. Worried that it's officially fall and you're going to freeze your ass off in the name of trendy rooftop socializing? 230 Fifth makes very stylish red fleece hooded robes available to patrons, at which I am shocked at how many New Yorkers actually willingly wear. Well, I guess it beats a Snuggie.
Rating: 4.5 stars

Working girls

Kate Gosselin is working on a talk show featuring and aimed at working moms. Other hosts include celebrity chef and Food Network host Paula Deen, and several other notable media journalists. And Kate qualifies because....? I'm sorryyyyyy, I didn't realize that being a fame-whore is a full time job.

Team Jon!

Nothing sketcky going on here

I really like that there's absolutely no preferential treatment or not-so-hidden agendas in the music selections for the new season of Gossip Girl. It simply must be a coincidence that Cobra Starship's "Good Girls Go Bad" (featuring vocals by Leighton Meester) was played during not one but TWO crucial Blair moments in tonight's episode. Come on, Gossip Girl, I expected better of you...

In several ways perhaps. Two episodes in, the jury's still out on season 3 of Gossip Girl in my opinion. The show used to be ridiculous and unpredictable in a way that you felt like you were witnessing an exaggerated truth about a specific subculture of the world that is the NYC prep school scene. However now that most of the characters are in college, and college is something that an overwhelming portion or 20-somethings have experienced, we all can feel that the events are a little more than a tad unrealistic. Unless your school allowed sushi and sake martini parties in the freshman dorm common room, or advertised keg parties on the roof complete with a DJ and PA system. Then by all means, correct my cynicism. And then send me an application.

Fashion Week Diaries: Day 6

My fashion week activities wrapped last night with the G-Star Raw spring 2010 runway show at the Hammerstein Ballroom. G-Star are known for their fresh take on denim and unique silhouettes, and this season's collection lived up to their innovative reputation with several harem pant-esque jeans with low crotches, baggy thighs, and tapered bottoms. I'd be hesitant to wear them myself, but if you have the right body they're such a hip and eye-catching piece. The bold prints on the men's and women's collections (especially the fishies!) were also quirky and such a fun touch. The look I'm completely obsessed with is the underlying 1940's pinup feel of the many blue and white shirt dresses, and especially the bathing suit cut, leg bearing one-pieces. If I could get away with wearing this on a daily basis I so would because it's just plain fun, sexy and "cheeky".

One thing I love about G-Star's live presentations is that they're not just fashion shows, they're complete theatrical presentations. And if the dazzling lights, music and creative runway layout aren't enough to impress then the star-power in the front row certainly will. Lindsay Lohan, Christian Siriano, Miss J, Tyson Beckford, Kat von D, Kara DioGuardi, Jared Leto, Corbin Bleu, Damien Fahey, Matthew Settle, and Taylor Momsen were all in attendance. However, I must say that if Taylor M thought she was being "inconspicuous" or whatever entering in her full-length trench coat and big, dark sunglasses, homegirl seriously needs a reality check. xoxo, Little J.

The Devil Wears Prada...minus the devil

It's a shame that the new documentary feature film The September Issue is only out in limited release because after America thought they were getting a look into the fashion industry in The Devil Wears Prada, this movie has surprising educational value and shows the real deal. Come see the softer side of Anna Wintour!

The September Issue chronicles the creation of Vogue magazine's 2007 mammoth September volume, but really is a documentary showcasing the hidden world of the world's most revered fashion magazine. Yes, I will acknowledge the fact that the biggest blowups were either carefully avoided when the cameras were around or respectfully edited out. But when one is constantly being followed by cameras you inevitably eventually forget that they're present and can't help but act natural (as any good reality star will tell you). This leaves me to believe that The September issue must give as close to an accurate portrayal of Vogue life as possible. Seeing this movie made me respect Anna Wintour even more than I already did and really come to like her. Sure she is firm, but from what is shown she always gives criticism in a constructive way which is refreshing to me since I think too many people have pathetically come to expect nothing less than positive reinforcement and sugar coating even in the workplace.

The film contains some genuinely funny moments that couldn't have been scripted by the best writers. Andre Leon Talley is a larger than life caricature of himself and is not apologizing for it. I only wish I could pull off wearing a Louis Vuitton blanket on my shoulders while playing tennis, complimented by a matching racket case, messenger bag, and trunk...obvi.

Grace Coddington, Vogue's Creative Director, is effortlessly comical in her many witty quips and subtle facial expressions upon learning Anna's opinions of the various fashion spreads. The standout scene in the movie comes near the end as Grace creates a photo shoot in which the documentary's cameraman appears as an accessory. Anna decides that his beer gut needs to be retouched, a decision which Grace promptly reverses. Scenes like this showcase their (playful?) tension. During these exchanges, the two women rarely speak to or learn the information directly from each other, but rather the employees break the barrier and rely on said cameraman to relay their colleagues' opinions. It all comes together in delightful comedic sequences. Through occasions such as this and the entire documentary, Grace comes across as extremely genuine and likable, the angel of Vogue if one does choose to buy into Anna as the devil.

Fashion Week Diaries: Day 5

I went to the library today! It doesn't say much for my intellectual prowess that my first trip to the gorg New York Public Library after living in Manhattan for over two years was for a fashion show where there was nary a book in sight. Jill Stuart showed her spring 2010 collection today at the lobby at the Bryant Park location. Jill Stuart always draws an impressive crop of celebrities and today was no different as Kim Kardashian, Kelly Rowland, Rachel Bilson, Amanda Bynes, Nicky Hilton, more "Real Housewives" than I have ever seen in one place (NY: Jill, Bethenny, Kelly, The Countess; NJ: Caroline and Dina; ATL: Sheree), Gail Simmons from Top Chef, Tinsley Mortimer, and the unofficial high priestess of Fashion Week Fern Mallis herself were all sitting front row.

The collection carried a heavy inspiration of 80's fashion with structured shoulders, puffy sleeves, geometric shapes, ruched metallics, studs, cutouts, and lace. The color pallet was almost exclusively black, white, grey and silver, with hints of blue and magenta thrown in (because what 80's wardrobe would be complete without a pink metallic pseudo-prom dress?). And the hemlines were beyond mini status, making some of the more slinky metallic dresses appear a little less South Hampton, a little more South Amboy, New Jersey if ya know what I'm sayin. A weird but interesting accessory choice was a huge, dangling, flexible sheet metal earring that popped up in different variations in several of the looks. Notice my use of the singular "earring" as in one lonely earring in only one of the model's ears. I was almost surprised the weight of these bad boys didn't make the models' heads tilt to one side.

In the evening I attended the first ever NYFW runway show for Avril Lavigne's clothing line, Abbey Dawn, which will hit your local Kohl's soon. The looks were pretty much what you'd expect with hoodies, shredding, checkered leggings, and various other faux-punk pieces. However, there were a few "50's schoolgirl gone wrong" dresses and puffy skirts that caught my eye and could be made quite chic with the right accessories and beauty look. Though Avril's husband Deryck Whibley of Sum 41 was nowhere to be seen, a rather interesting celebrity turnout included Avril (obvi), Nicky Hilton, Olympic gymnast Nastia Lukin, and Ron Jeremy. Because clearly this is the right mix of people to keep the tweeners happy.

Fashion Week Diaries: Day 3

Yesterday I set out to two spring 2010 presentations: Poleci and Alice + Olivia. The one thing that feels a little awkward to me about "presentations" compared to traditional fashion shows is that during a presentation, you're staring at the models as if they're in a zoo. Whether they're standing on a platform in the middle of the room or part of a staged tableau, I feel like there almost should be a sign in front of them that reads "Don't feed or talk to the models". Yet they're standing three feet away and often looking you directly in the eye. Very confusing as to whether you're allowed to break the 4th Wall, or even whether the 4th Wall is intended or not.

The Poleci presentation was held at their store in the Meatpacking District, and I was very pleased to once again see sequins and rompers! I loved the pieces done in navy blue sequins, and other standouts for me included a pair of purple satin shorts and a yellow leather-esque shift dress.

The Alice + Olivia presentation was really half fabulous party, half gritty rock concert. Oh yah, and there were clothes too. Alice + Olivia are known for an energetic vibe and girly yet edgy fashions, and this year it was taken to a whole new level as the presentation moved from their store to a large semi-open-air raw space in the Meatpacking. One wall was completely open which allowed for fresh air and for passers-by to witness the fabulosity in which they could not partake. Guests were treated to an extensive open bar, a performance by French all-girl rock band the Plastiscines (who were great, Google them bitches!), and more celeb cameos than I thought possible. I spotted Nicky Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, Jill Zarin and Kelly Killoren Bensimon from The Real Housewives, Kelly Rutherford, Shenae Grimes from the new 90210 (who's demeanor lived up to her "jittery" reputation...just sayin), Ashley Greene from Twilight (who I must confess I would never have known had someone not pointed her out to me), Mena Suvari, and Kristin Cavallari among others. The clothes (displayed by models in Parisian tableaus) were feminine and almost fairy-like with muted colors, lace, satin, and more sequins!

After last night I totally feel validated in my love of the shiny and will totally be resurrecting all of my supposedly "tacky" sequin pieces, and yinz better like it!

To think I call myself a Theatre Person...

...when amidst the excitement of Fashion Week I almost forgot that tomorrow is Broadway on Broadway! Oh the shame, oh the horror! Broadway on Broadway is an annual concert in Times Square showcasing songs from Broadway's current hits and previews of the upcoming season's openings. This year's Broadway on Broadway takes place Sunday, September 13 at 11:30am, and the city shuts down the TSQ streets as over 50,000 theatre lovers gather to celebrate Broadway during this FREE event.

If you want to get close to the stage (located at Broadway and 43rd) you have to arrive at the ass-crack of dawn, but the performances are also projected on the jumbo screens all over Times Square so the action is impossible to miss even if you are secluded to the rear part of the audience. I believe the event is even televised later in the day, but if you are a true Theatre Person you will be there in person rain or shine (and luckily we're scheduled to have shine!). If you've never been, I highly recommend going to B-Way on B-Way at least once in your life as a New Yorker, even if you're not so much into the theatre. Broadway on Broadway is simply an amazing event that is sure to put a smile on your face, and one of the things that can lift even the most cynical New Yorker out of the dumps and make you truly feel lucky to live here and be able to experience such unique opportunities.

Fashion Week Diaries: Day 2

Cynthia Steffe show at The Tents. I must confess that I'm actually not as fabulous as I sometimes try to make myself out to be, and today I was reminded of that as I got my seat assignment for standing room. Blah to the ego, plus it's even more torture on the feet. I managed to get an upgrade to fourth row eventually, but it still hurt. Sitting front row were singer Ciara and Jillian Harris from The Bachelorette. No Ed in sight, but I'm happy to report that she was wearing her butt ugly engagement ring. I'm also happy to report that she is pretty! So some people need to stop the hating, Joel McHale, maybe sometimes homegirl just doesn't photograph well.

The clothes at Cynthia Steffe were amazing, very fun, flirty, and feminine. Lots of rompers which I love, and a decent portion of the looks were in pastel colors or featured this pastel abstract floral print that matched the paper that the invitations were printed on...loves it! The collection also included a section of glittery metallic looks including a to die for silver glittery fringed mini-skirt that would probably be TMTH for most people but I'm completely obsessed with.

I try not to focus too much on sad things, but I'd like to take a moment to say how breathtaking last night's WTC symbolic light beam display was. I live literally a block away from where the light beams originate (which is actually 3 blocks from Ground Zero) and had to stop in my tracks on my way home to appreciate their beauty. Yes I felt slightly awkward standing in the middle of the street staring, but I think too often New Yorkers don't take the time to stop and smell the roses.

Fashion Week Dairies: Day 1

Headed to SoHo for Fashion's Night Out. I was definitely surprised to see soooo many people out shopping on a semi-rainy Thursday night. What I loved was that everyone was in good spirits and dressed fabulously, it almost made me forget that we're in a recession (except for my empty wallet). Guess that means their intentions with this event totes worked. Some high points of the evening for me were wine and cider cocktails at Nine West, finding a $5 dress at Top Shop, and getting to meet and interview mega-big-deal hairdresser Oscar Blandi at Sephora. Bad news is that we're one day into fashion week and my feet are already DUNZO.

Up bright and early tomorrow for a 9am show...ugh! It is not easy to achieve fierceness at that hour. Until then, I'm ready for some football!

When fashion meets football

Okay, whose idea of a sick joke is this? This year, New York Fashion Week and the NFL (that's football y'all) regular season start on the same night, tomorrow. I don't think I could come up with two less similar events if I tried. Normally I could care less about this whole NFL kickoff thingey, although they do make a huge show to open the season including performances by the Black Eyed Peas and Tim McGraw. However, this year my beloved Pittsburgh Stillers (that's Steelers to you) are playing against the Tennessee Titans in tomorrow night's all important first game. To me, that would normally involve cheering fervently for the Steelers either from my couch or a dive bar, indulging in many beers, and donning the appropriate apparel to show my team spirit (a pink Steelers jersey, obvi). Instead, tomorrow I have scheduled events to attend for Fashion's Night Out, will probably be sipping champagne, will be wearing some very chic Budget Couture, and may make it home to watch the very end of the game (if I'm lucky). Just look at what happens when you try to make two worlds collide!

Although, this may be a very welcome chain of events for couples. The men can watch their pigskin in peace while the women are too distracted by the fashionable festivities to notice or care. I'm just hoping my boyfriend Big Ben Roethlisberger will understand that unfortunately I have other obligations and won't be able to paint his number on my face and cheer him on from the stands.

Tomorrow's big event, Fashion's Night Out, was jump started by Anna Wintour and Diane Von Furstenberg and brings hundreds of fashion and beauty related businesses across NYC and the world together to simultaneously host events in hopes of creating excitement in the fashion world and stimulating the economy. Events include special promotions and shopping incentives, celebrity appearances, in-store classes and presentations, etc. Honestly, I don't know how much one night is really going to change the economy, or how many people are actually planning on dropping the big bucks during Fashion's Night Out and not just enjoying the spectacle. However, buzz for this event is huge. This weekend I wasn't able to walk more than fifty feet without seeing a storefront grandly advertising their festivities, so they sure got the excitement part down. Many retailers will also be selling the official Fashion's Night Out t-shirt with proceeds benefiting charity, because we're not complete shallow biotches in the fashion industry.

So to sum up tomorrow night: Here we go Stillers, you better WORK!

The internet is for...blogging about Avenue Q

On the night of the first and only time I saw Avenue Q, over three years ago in the summer of 2006, I looked down at the floor during my train ride home to Jersey and found a penny from the year I was born. I thought it was a sign that I was going to find my purpose, so naturally I burst into song because everything was of course going to be okay.

Well, it wasn't. But that's not to discredit the sheer awesomeness of Avenue Q. This musical will sadly be closing this Sunday, September 13, after running for over six years. Though unconventional in its staging and style of music, Avenue Q taught us all some valuable life lessons like coping with wanting to go back to college, being as loud as the hell we want when we're having sex, and learning to not be prejudice against monsters. Okay, there's also several life lessons that actually are important, and I believe that we've each experienced and internalized different versions of these in our own way. It's just that kind of show.

A few things I'd like to share in memorandum: My dad found it fascinating that there was a Broadway show that starred puppets and had been claiming that he wants to see Avenue Q for years. Of course he had no clue what the show is actually about. Capitalizing on his enthusiasm, I burned him a CD of the songs from Q that didn't contain references to sex, porn, racism, homosexuality, or drugs...which of course left about three songs, one of which sadly being the 30-second "I'm Not Wearing Underwear Today". Finally my mom broke down and told him that his beloved puppets have sex on stage. That put an end to my hopes of that family outing.

In terms of my own sex life, Princeton and Kate's duet and the melody of "Fantasies Come True" became my own internal soundtrack for one particular college hookup. Isn't it the greatest feeling when you've totally been crushing on someone for awhile, and then one night after eight or so drinks the things in your head are really happening in your bed? Then you wake up beside the person the next morning and there's music playing and it's this magical moment and then...yah it pretty much ends there for everyone but Princeton and Kate.

In case you need further proof that Avenue Q truly is a credible Broadway sensation, I must bring up a fact which many people tend to forget. In 2004, Avenue Q beat Wicked for the Best Musical Tony Award. Something actually beat Wicked! Avenue Q kicked their ass! Now tell me that's not legit. Oh, and that penny? Resting safely in a corner of my jewelry box. Hey, I haven't totally given up hope.

RIP, El Chupa

Unfortunately Michael K at dlisted beat me to the Rachel Zoe joke, but I wouldn't have made one anyway because I LOVES her.

The Chupacabra is fondly known as the "Mexican Goat Sucker" and believed to be a mythical creature who preys on farm animals. Well mythical no more, bitches, I always knew homeboy was real! The Chupa(s) are described in real-life sightings as large dog-rodents with fangs, leathery skin, and sometimes spikes on their backs. I was first introduced to the Chupa in 12th grade AP Physics class, and it has since become a running joke amongst many groups of my friends. In junior year of college (circa 2006) I spent a glorious afternoon with an ex-friend watching el Chupa star in a great movie on the Sci-Fi Channel, Chupacabra: Dark Seas. In this MASTERPIECE, our goat-sucking friend (who is portrayed in a much larger, more monstrous form) somehow gets aboard a cruise ship and starts attacking all the passengers. We nicknamed it Chupacabra: Semester at Sea. Finally during a 2008 camping trip in P-Town, my friend Kelly and I were pretty sure it was going to attack us even though we were thousands of miles away from its home.

So this week el Chupa made a dumb move and decided to get himself poisoned, but this does not mean the end of him. Clearly there are more than one of these lil guys running around Texas and Mexico and probably even your backyard. It's 11am, do you know where your goats are?

Video from cnn.com