Pop-up Shop: JNBY

Yet another reason why the big apple calls my name every winter: Pop-up Shops.

Whether it's Topshop, Rordarte or Asian designed brands brought to the US, I completely love the idea. This season China-based brand JNBY is setting up shop in NYC's Soho district before it permanently finds a home in the city. I suppose you could think of pop-up shops as the airstream trailer of restaurants. Still delicious, but more unique because it's produced on a smaller scale. This season JNBY's pop-up shop is holiday inspired with jackets, hoodies, socks, leggings and dresses in loud prints.

Here's a look at what the shop is offering...(I am green with envy as a type this entry)

How to Be Mindful During the Holidays

Yes, The Holidays are full of merry and cheer but they can also be a really stressful time for everyone with get-togethers, holiday shopping, work and all kinds of other stresses and worries. Thankfully, our good friend and guru Leo Babauta of Zen Habits has turned being mindful during the Holidays into three easy steps:

1. A Simple Practice- Take an action, like eating a fruit, and do it mindfully. Savor it slowly, take in the tastes and smells. Think about the way that eating it makes you feel, and concentrate on that feeling.

2. A Simple Mantra- Each time you feel yourself getting stressed or overwhelmed, remember the fruit. Say to yourself "apple" or "banana" or whatever fruit you ate and remember what it was like to be mindful as you ate that fruit. Now do the same thing with whatever situation you are shopping, spending time with loved ones, or doing a work task. Focus on that one thing and really be in the moment with that thing or person.

3. Remember What's Important - During the stressful Holiday's remember what's most important to you. That might be your loved ones, friends, spouse, kids, significant other, or even work. Whatever that is, be passionate about it and and focus on it throughout the holidays. The rest is just noise. It's not important. Fully experience what's important to you and let the rest fade away.

Via: Zen Habits

What Women in London are Wearing to the Disco: Lingerie

Fact: Women in London are wearing lingerie to the Disco.

Women will always look for new ways to wear less clothing, and no one will stand in their way. After the lingerie trend on the spring 2010 runways, the trend was bound to hit the streets also. I'm not talking corset tops, women are making conscious decisions to shop in the lingerie section for clothes to go out in. According to WWD UK Department store Selfridges has sold 70% more corsets this winter than it did last year already. The four-figure priced corsets have been selling out in less than 24 hours a piece and when Rihanna performed in her toilet-paper-esque slip costume at the American Music Awards, sales of the likewise Selfridges slip skyrocketed.

So, when shall the trend hit us here in the United States? Hopefully later than sooner, but my vote goes to Lady Gaga when guessing who will be the first to sport the new trend out.

Portland's Foodcart Scene: An image of What Austin's to Become?

Austin isn't the only city in America trending the non-fastfood, non- restaurant convenience food service. Portland, Oregon is far ahead of the game, apparently. With over 400 of what they call foodcarts, serving hundreds of different ethnic foods to city-goers curbside, the city is a model of what Austin may looking like in the future, based on the recent air-stream trailer trend.

The benefits are similar, little fees for space, good profit. But are these "foodcarts" as hip as air-stream trailers? Doubtful, Portland.

A journalist for the NYT investigates the city's trend.

"Your Own fat, Relocated"

The latest kind of recycling has nothing to do with soda bottles, according to a recent New York Times article. Instead, it concerns your body fat. Wherever it may be thighs, butt, tummy, surgeons are now liposuctioning it and injecting into breasts for clients who wish to enlarge their breasts without going the silicone route.

The procedure isn't new. Infact, in the early nineties it was completely condemned but currently is generating a new wave of excitement. Recently the Plastic Surgery Society announced that this procedure "can be considered a safe method of augmentation" and doctors have discussed the fact that the only way to create a natural-looking breast is to use your own body's tissue.

Of course their are risks involved. Such as the fact that injected fat can cause mammograms to be offset and misread. Also, the likelihood fat will survive being suctioned out, and transplanted is sometimes low. However, as the procedure becomes more popular, surgeons are becoming more advanced in their techniques.

My opinion- silicone or not, it's still unnatural. However, I do recognize that everybody's insecurities are different and maybe women like the idea of not having to put something foreign into their breasts to make them larger. Even if it is say FAT.

Breakfast Recipe: Couscous with Oranges and Dates

Now that my semester is virtually over, I have the time to actually take care of my body again, actually feed it the right things and exercise more. Sitting top on my healthy-habits-to-return-to list: eating a healthy breakfast.

A breakfast recipe I am trying this week: Couscous with oranges and dates! Mmmm.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups of water
2 to 3 tablespoons of brown sugar or honey
1 teaspoon of orange flower water (optional; find at Middle Eastern markets)
3 tablespoons of chopped dried apricots
2 tablespoons currants or raisins
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
1 cup couscous
1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
2 navel oranges
6 dates, pitted and cut in quarters
pomegranate seeds (for garnish!)

1. Combine water and brown sugar and honey in a saucepan and boil. Turn heat to medium and continue to boil until the sugar has dissolved. Still in the orange flower water, apricots, raisins or currants and set aside for 5 minutes.

2. Place couscous in 2-quart bowl, and add the cinnimon and salt. Stir. Pour on the hot syrup and mix together. Set aside for twenty minutes (if not eating right away-refrigerate).

3. Shortly before serving, strain the couscous and stir in the butter and then cover again.

4. Peel oranges over couscous (so any juice drips into it) and add the four slices atop with couscous along with date slices and pomegranate seeds, if desired, and serve.

(Via: Cookbook writer and NYT contributer- Martha Rose Shulman)

The 9th Annual Year in Ideas: An Overview

The New York Times magazine released it's 9th annual Year in Ideas issue recently, a 2009 recap worth spending a few minutes reading. My favorite idea categories for the issue: culture, social science, and design among other more dry categories like politics.

Some of my favorite "top-notch" ideas of 2009:

Stilletto Claws- 12 inch tall stiletto boots. Representing the "surrealist clothing" trend that hit runways and streets this year. Designer Alexander McQueen puts the gaudy fashion into perspective perfectly, "I don't think it makes sense to play safe in these times" "The world needs fantasy, not reality. We have enough reality today".


Photo: Don Ashby

Kickstarter- a website that functions as an incredible tool for emerging artists. Think of it as a consultation with fans, the artists asking them the question, 'Would you pay for me to make this art?' Essentially artists propose an idea on the site, how much money they would need to complete such a project, and people pledge money until the amount requested is reached. If a monetary goal isn't reach, no one spends a penny. More than 1,000 projects are being raised for already ranging from, a diverse solo trip around the world ($8,124 raised) to a book by Scott Thomas documenting how he developed the graphic design behind Obama's campaign ($84,614) Not too shabby for the internet I'd say.


Illustration: Lauren Nassef

P.T.S.D. Treatment: Tetris- Simplicity is the cure to our most complex of problems sometimes. Consider the fact that recent studies have proved that playing Tetris can significantly reduce the negative effects of P.T.S.D., like amount of visual flashbacks, for those who are suffering. Scientists award the effectiveness of the game's therapy to color vibrancy and it's ability to stimulate the visual cortex of the brain, leaving the rest of it to process the traumatic memories that sometimes resurface. "It was so simple, and it worked so beautifully" said Emily Holmes, who experimented with Tetris' therapeutic aspects. When in need of a P.T.S.D. vaccine next time allow your cognitive abilities to take over: manipulate gently falling bricks.


Illustration:Noma Bar

Check out the NYT Magazine for a full description on some of the clever insights you might have missed out on this year.

Aesop Rock: Rescheduled Show @ The Mohawk

Yes, ACL and SXSW host acceptable live music weather, but there's nothing better than seeing your favorite music in crisp, cool weather. No need to worry about sweaty bodies, sunburns, or that drunk person beside you passing out via dehydration.
That being said, let me tell you what show I'm most excited to catch this winter: Aesop Rock. After one winter-weather cancellation, Aesop will be gracing us with his presence Saturday Jan. 23rd at The Mohawk.

Incase T-pain and Chris Brown have you forgetting what real talented rapping is, Aesop Rock will whip your tastes back into shape. The 33 year old Long Island, New York native made it big at the start of the Underground wave of rap in the early nineties and in 2008 was deemed one of the most influential artists of the decade by betterpropaganda. No telling wether it's his clever lyrics or well-developed beats that has given him such praise, but the rapper sure can rhyme.

For a taste of Aesop Rock's skills:


Tickets are $20/$22 at the door. Don't miss this one of a kind artist at one of Austin's favorite venues.

Jules Marie: Holiday Trunk Show @ Feathers Boutique

If we have anything in common you like classic, everyday, simplicity, especially when it comes to jewelry. The perfect designers to fit these tastes are none other than Leah Marie Ball and Jules Hsu who have combined their creative talents to create Jules Marie Fine Jewelry.



Feathers Boutique is hosting a holiday trunk show, showcasing their lovely designs tonight (accompanied by cupcakes, champagne, and a store-wide sale of course!)

I recommend attending if you've been in search of that perfect everyday necklace or pair of earrings you will never take off. Their designs are classic and feminine with geodes, sapphires and and metals of simple shapes.







Shop the collection and learn more about JulesMarie online.

Video: The Rodarte for Target Line

I know, enough about the fashion blogging. But consider this 13 year old who's fashion blogging skills got her dibs on free clothes by the infamous Rodarte sisters. They gave her clothes not from their upcoming target line, but clothes from their main line, which prices for range around the four figure range. Not bad for the 7th grade, eh? Tavi Givenson's blog Style Rookie, which is full of collaging, videos and her unique fashion inspirations, has practically gained her fame and given her press ranging from the New York Times to Teen Vogue.

Watch the video she was asked to make for the Rodarte sister's about their upcoming fashion line for target!



The Rodarte sister's say they chose Tavi to make the video because "she's a mix between J.D. Salinger, Dorothy Parker, and Cindy Sherman. Our perfect combination!"
Obviously there's something unique about Tavi's 13 years on Earth that have gained her this success. What it is, I'm not quite sure. However, I'm sure we're to hear more about her and her fashion-aimed endeavors in the future.

Senate Consideration: Tanning Bed Tax

Alas, Senate Democrats have aimed their discussions towards another one of America's unhealthy habits. Already, taxes for unnecessary cosmetic procedures such as Botox, have worked their way into the new health care plan. Now, Senate Democrats are discussing the possibility of taxes for those wishing to artificially bronzen (or orang-en?) their skin via tanning beds at salons and the purchase of sunlamps for at-home tanning use.

Sure, the Senate looks for healthcare revenue wherever it can, but this might actually prove to be successful since tanners-much like cigarette smokers are addicts. The research has been done and this dangerous habit has been proved equal to cigarette smoking, but is it worth precious tax money?

Get the full story from Congress Daily.

Furry friends: The New Botox

Women are always looking for new and innovative ways to avoid aging, that's a given. But what about an anti-aging source, that requires no injections, swallowing, or obsessive-compulsive application?

Call it a miracle, but I'll call this anti-aging secret an underrated human need: Owning a pet.

It's known psychologically, yes, that owning a pet will decrease levels of depression,stress, and loneliness by increasing laughter, nurturing, and exercise. But recently, according to Glamour, a study showed the physical benefits to owning a pet: those who own pets are likely to have less wrinkles on their face as compared to non-pet owners. This was the case especially when it came to wrinkles that usually appear around the eyes. A researcher from the University of California hypothesized that this is the case because our faces are more relaxed, and fa less tense when we are talking and interacting with animals.

Drop the tri-annual botox injections, women, and buy that French Bulldog you've been wanting.

Holiday Wish List

The start of Winter-break's added free time only leaves on thing on my mind: what Santa will bring me for Christmas.
As it turns out this year, most of my wish list consists of items for my sanctuary...









I promise I've been a
very
very
very
good girl.

A Tiny Bit of Graphic Inspiration

Inspirational humor for my fellow colleagues this tiring week of finals...



From the Recovering Lazyholic blog. The countdown to freedom, relaxation and utter carelessness begins NOW.

Barbara Ann Kipfer: An Enlightened Writer

Gift shopping at BookPepople yesterday at I stopped in the self-help section and remembered how much I love Barbara Ann Kipfer's books. I gave her first book, 14,000 Things to Be Happy About to a friend as a gift, and recieved Self-Meditation a book with 3,299 mantras, tips, quotes and koans for peace and serentity in return a few years later. I love the book, and read from it almost daily.

Kipfer has a Phd in Buddhist Psychology among other subjects and writes from a wonderfully enlightened perspective. What's great about her books is that they are full valuable wisdom yet simple, sharp, and to the point, making them readable almost anywhere. If you haven't read any of her books, I suggest this be the season to purchase one for yourself, or for a friend since they make fabulous gifts.

If books aren't your gift of choice, I suggest you check out Kipfer's cleverly designed website, offering pockets full of wisdom and advice. Plus, Kipfer even has nifty igoogle gadgets for you to read about happiness, self-meditation, wisdom and more on a daily basis from your google homepage.

Michelle Obama: Even Impresses the French

The media will never leave a first-lady alone, especially a beautifully styled one like Michelle Obama. Two days from now, here in America, Lady Obama will appear on Barbara Walter's special as America's most fascinating woman. Abroad, things are looking just as gratifying. Recently, Lady O won the top spot on French Elle's annual best-dressed list, beating out Frances own first lady in the "political chic" category. Well deserving, of course. Elle cited Mrs. Obama's support of emerging designers and her signature "cinched cardigan" look as her winning attributes.

She's modern, but still classy. Even in the eyes of the French. Way to go, Lady O.

Zac Posen for Target: Spring 2010

Man, do we love Target lately. Thank goodness for the mass consumption of designer goodies. If you've never been interested in the retail store's collaboration with designers or their GO International series, I assure you it will be hard to resist peeping at this designer's work.

The infamous 29 year old American designer Zac Posen who has dressed stars like Naomi Campbell and Gwyntheth Paltrow, will be teaming with the store next spring to design for their GO International series. While specific pieces and prices aren't identifiable yet, the retail store does know that it will make sure to have Posen's designs available to shoppers both in store and online April 25 to May 30th. Perfect timing to sass up your spring wardrobes without breaking the bank, ladies. Can't wait.

In the meantime, look forward to Rodarte, designed by sisters Kate and Laura Mulleavy which will hit Target stores nationwide on December the 20th. When sourcing their inspiration for the line, the sisters credit their favorite films, Rosmary's Baby, Bonnie and Clyde, and Harold and Maude. Look for ward to lots of sequins, tule, and lacy tights in this sassy-dark humor themed line.

Texas School Outlaws "Skinny Pants"

Being from the liberal wonderland of Austin, it's sometimes easily forgotten how not so liberal the rest of our state is. Consider this Texas vs. Skinny Pants ridiculousness where a school doesn't allow a boy to wear his new "skinny pants" to middle school:



If those pants are "disruptive" that school district isn't preparing it's students for the real world's fashion crazies. Que triste! Poor students... I suggest Seth transfer to a school in Austin where he can fully express the range of his disruptive, obscene fashion choice.

Lily Allen to Quit Music and open Fashion Boutique

According to ELLE, adorable singer/songwriter Lily Allen has announced this week that she will be taking a two-year hiatus from her career as a music artist and try her hand in the fashion business. The star who has recently been the face of chanel, designed a collection for New Look and has launched a range of jewelry will open up a fashion boutique with her sister. The store which they plan to call "Lucy in Disguise" will make "designer labels accessible" to fashion fans.

Though I wish Lily the best of luck, her angsty ballads will be truly missed during the so-called music making break. Looking forward to see where the young british babe's fashion career takes her, however.

RARE Magazine: 2010 Uncorked w/ Flosstradamus and Car Stereo Wars

As friends leave town to ring in the new year and old ones come to town to visit over the holidays it's essential that the place to ring in the new year is fully planned in advance. Live at Seaholm is at it again and RARE magazine plans to host the most amazing New Years Eve Bash at the fresh event venue. Entertainment is as follows: Flosstradamus, DJ Car Stereo Wars and SHIV, light shows, dancing, a cash bar for beer and cocktails and an LED video board countdown displaying downtown's fireworks. For those on a tight budget, this event may not be the most brilliant of ideas, but surely it will be worth the $75. The ticket preice includes hors d'oeuvres from fabulous Austin restaurants and champagne, of course.

It's predicted that the event will sell out quickly, so if you're going to be in Austin to ring in the new year, I suggest you buy a ticket quickly to assure a perfectly beautiful New Years Eve! Since I'll be in town, there's no way I'm missing out, this one's going to have to be put on the credit card...

Me and Orson Welles Premiere: The Paramount

This may be a little dated but still worth mentioning. Last Monday The Paramount premiered Me and Orson Welles to an eager audience. Actors Zac Efron, Christian McKay and director Richard Linklater were in attendance. Pre-movie and on the red carpet there was naturally a handful of young girls waiting for Efron's presence, however the amount of calm fans evened the scene out.

While Efron signed autographs and snapped photos with fans in his trendy black leather jacket and boots, McKay was busy working his charm. "I think I'm the only actor that was asked to lose weight to play Orson Welles!" "I put up a picture of Zac in front of me while I was on the treadmill." While McKay posed for pictures for the press, proudly sporting a 'hook em horns' hand the fans truly appreciated the quality actor's sincereity.

Equally as charming and interesting, was director Richard Linklater, who is from Austin. "When people say welcome back I say, I never left!" Linklater, who is the head of the Austin Film Society, spoke about his appreciation for the type of environment Austin offers to the film scene as a whole. "Austin has such a literate population."

The film played quickly after the short and sweet red carpet premeire, and it did not disappoint. McKay made acting as Orson Welles stubborn and powerful character look easy, while Efron broke hearts with his love for actress Claire Dane's character in the film. Overall, I'd say the film may be Oscar-worthy.

ATTN Foodies: Eat Local Week Dec 5-12

Excite your boring week of finals, or work, with Eat Local Week by Edible Austin! The event kicked off yesterday at the downtown Farmer's Market with a proclamation by the mayor and goes on until the 12th. Basically, all local restaurants and markets are participating to please your taste buds with special menus and locally-sourced entrees and products. Quel Festin!

The event is a fundraiser for Urban Roots, a youth development program which uses sustainable agriculture as a means of education for youth, and as a way of increasing available healthy food in Austin. Over 50 restaurants and markets are participating in the week long event, which will all donate their proceeds of a specific menu special or a portion of their sales to Urban Roots.

Here's a tease of what kind of locally sourced featured dishes you will find throughout the week. At Annie's Cafe and Bar: Grilled Wild Atlantic salmon with organic watermelon radishes and turnips from Boggy Creek Farm and organic romanesco from Harvest Time Farm, served in a light lemon beurre blanc sauce.

For a full list of events through out the week check out the ELW Calendar. Whole Foods and the Austin Museum of Art are among the locations that will host events but What I'M most excited for: Meet Your Local Brewers Happy Hour hosted by the Whip In Parlor Cafe and Market. Live Oak Brewing Company, (512) Brewing Co, Independence Brewing Co., Real Ale Brewing Company, Saint Arnold Brewing Company and Shiner Beers will be in attendance to share the tastes of their locally made goodness. A $20 Event ticket gets you a pint-sized taste of six beers, plus a la cart gourmet foods from the Whip In, MMMPanadas, the Best Wurst, Sushi-a-Go-go, The Texas Cuban, Flip Happy Crepes, The Mediterranean Chef, Vital Farms, Buddha's Brew, WaterOak Farms, Austinnuts and Austin Slow Burn. The event is from 4-8pm, in the fantabulous Whip In beer garden. See you there.

Fall Boot Trend: The Thigh's The Limit

I can't stop obsessing over the over-the-knee-boot. I think ladies (and men) are greatful for this sexy fall boot trend. If you've seen Jay-Z's Run This Town music video you've seen Rihanna's killer Cesare-Paciotti over-the-knee boots and are currently in love.

Either way, here are some both safe and daring bets on the fall-trend:

GUESS "Rumala" Boot. Made of sheep leather, $199. guess.com


CYNTHIA VINCENT "Reva" Suede Boot, $395. piperlime.com


CHLOE Suede Boot in Ivory with brass studs, $635 (I know, I know...but aren't they gorgeous?!) Madison International, 310 273-1203.


DOLCE VITA "Nathan" Suede Boot, $165. shopdolcevita.com


SAM EDELMAN "Sable" Waxed leather boot, $275. Antonia, 949-644-6910.


JOIE "Twiggy" Leather Boot with a sturdy burled wood feel, $575. piperlime.com


COLIN STUART over-the-knee-leather boot, $189. victoriassecret.com

Kehinde Wiley: Equestrian Portrait of King Phillip II

Just when you thought the King of Pop's influence on our culture was starting to diminish... This year's Art Basel Miami Beach featured numerous pieces which were in tribute to the deceased king.

A favorite from the Art Basel...by none other that Kehinde Wiley himself. God I love this artist:



I know I've previously mentioned and reviewed Wiley's work, but he never ceases to impress me. His "Equestarian Portrait of King Phillip II" is very clever and fitting for the King of Pop, I believe. Allegedly Wiley began the work when Jackson was still alive, and it was a planned project that the two had discussed together after Jackson saw Wiley's work in the Brooklyn museum of art and commissioned him for a portrait. Naturally, Jackson often had himself painted as a King so the pop artist was a perfect match for Wiley's style of work. After a halt in the project, Wiley finished the piece after hearing of Jackson's death.

The swapping out of the Spanish monarch's face in the portrait seems as though it's done so effortlessly. In addition, the boldness of the portrait itself is one that would have made Jackson proud.

Empire State of Mind, Part II?

Yes, I have no shame in admitting I love Jay-Z and Alicia Keys' Empire State of Mind. Everyone else does too, apparently. You can't walk halfway down east 6th street without hearing the song blaring out of a bar or drive 5 minutes in the car without hearing it on the radio. Not to mention, the song peaked #1 in Billboard's Hot 100, a first for Jay-Z. I like, okay, I don't mind, Jay-Z's rapping about himself and the old Brooklyn hood, but I LOVE Alicia in it.

Ever wonder what the song would be like if she did it herself? Well, your curiosity can take a rest because Ms. Keys will have an "Empire State of Mind, Part II" on her latest album "The Element of Freedom" due to hit stores December 13th. In the version Keys talks about her own experience in the melting pot city, like working hard as a young lady, and taking gipsy cabs from Harlem to Brooklyn.

Watch Alicia belt the beautiful song, you surely won't be disappointed:

34-Year Austin Tradition: The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar

Find one of a kind, handcrafted art and Christmas gifts...eat, drink, be merry AND listen to live music! Plus, my favorite part of the Bazaar: you're supporting the local economy while doing so.

The Bazaar begins on Friday the 11th and goes on until Christmas Eve at The Austin Convention Center from 11 am to 11 pm daily. This year there will be over 40 Austin bands and hundreds of artists selling their variety of art, jewelry and photography.

Austin, Texas made CNN's top places to find "Christmas cheer" and they think that The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar helps make it so. I most definitely agree with this statement. If you've already done your Christmas shopping, The Bazaar is still a good place to catch a unique piece of art for your home, holiday- themed or not. My best advice: don't go looking for something in particular, instead see where the labrynth-like set up of booths of artists takes you.

For more info on attending the Bazaar check out their website.

Rihanna Goes "Hard" with Military Couture

As of 2009 Rihanna has overcome a painful relationship experience that was exploited by the media, been nominated for two grammys, made herself an icon in the fashion world, and released her fourth Album, Rated R which critics are already loving and predicting will largely help her career. Need I say, she has accomplished all of this while dressed like a perfectly groomed iconic bad-ass.

This style of Rihanna's is apparent in the video for her third single off of Rated R, "Hard", which she just shot. Rihanna calls the style, "couture military" as everything in the video is surrounded by the idea of something military. It's not certain if the military theme is recurring in her song lyrics, but she surely portrays her tough military like skin in the song, as well as in the other songs off the album which are all rawer, deeper and darker than before. The album is surely a portrayal of how Rihanna has grown as a woman in the past year, and how the dangers of passion will make you realize a lot about yourself. Not to mention, her vocal range is deserving of all the attention she has been receiving this fall.

Watch Rihanna's SNL performance of "Hard" which aires tonight:http://www.rihannanow.com/news/index2.php/

Give the Gift of Superfood This Holiday

Daily Juice is offering holiday stockings full of superfood goodies this week. The perfect gift for the health nut in your life. The adorable stockings are filled with mixes of popular Daily Juice concoctions "Chocolate Prana", "Lively Up Yourself protein and greens" and "Power Source-C". Along with the healthy smoothie mixes the stockings have gift cards and healthy snacks from Daily Juice stuffed inside.

Help out a friend and give them the gift of nutrients this Christmas/Hannakah/Kwanza! Available at the Barton Springs location only for a limited time.

Margiela's Disco Ball Top: Yours for $10,995

Why continue to strive to be the life of the party when you can wear it?

Yes, that's right, French designer Maison Martin Margiela has created the ultimate disco-ball top, made with real glass mirrors and leather underneath. The top can be yours for only $10,995 thanks to YOOX who is having a special online sale of the top and other pieces by Margiela.



Get your hands on one soon, before Gaga buys them all.

Why Madonna is the Lucky Woman of the Moment

While Cougars are still a hot topic, let's talk about one in particular many young ladies like myself are jealous of: Madonna. Or, need I say, let's talk about her man of the moment.

Jesus Luz, 22, used to model in his home country of Brazil and earn $500 a day. Now, Luz is dating Madonna, attending a DJ school in Manhattan and quickly earning thousands more by getting spinning gigs like P. Diddy's penthouse Birthday party, The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show and, drumroll please... Madonna's 51st Birthday Party.

According to New York Magazine's interview with Luz, before Madonna "man-napped" him he studied Buddhism, yoga, and Kabbalah, as he was looking for something to make him strong, comfortable and happy in life. Yes, let's all let the green-eyed monster in us roll it's eye in envy.

Madonna and Luz met last December, a month after she had been divorced from film-maker Guy Ritchie.

Best of luck with this one, Madonna. If things don't work out, not to worry, there's a line of women licking their chops.

Year of the Cougar

Now that 2009 is preparing to wrap up, Newsweek has deemed it 'the year of the Cougar'. While evidence of this is present in television shows like ABC's Cougartown and various celebrity relationships that the media has obsessed over recently, Newsweek concludes that by this time next year, the Cougar craze will exist no more.

However, an increasing amount of sociologists beg to differ. Based on recent studies they say there is a real "demographic shift" in the marriage of men and women 10-15 years their senior. This shift is based on new choices and the redefinition of of suitable mate, from women in today's society. No longer is it necessary for women to find a mate that is older, more educated with a larger income that's willing to take care of them. Times are changin' and cougars are independent, successful women redefining tradition...not just sleezy, divorced and sex deprived as hollywood portrays.

No-Comply: December Happy Hour

I only do this for the sake of my crazy, skate-frenzied guy friends who run No-Comply. Why not grab a drink and pick up a christmas gift for yourself or significant other and get a sweet discount. No-Comply carries unique Nike, Volcom, RVCA, and Enjoi, hats, shoes, button ups, boards, pants, graphic tees and more. Located at 812 W. 12th St.

Google Wave Meddling

I might be a little behind the times but I just watched the hour and twenty minute video on Google Wave. Still, I'm not quite sure I'd know what to do with it if I had an account. Alas, I'm still curious and want to be part of the "collaboration" so I requested an invite. Should I be excited about this "real-time communication"?

Lose the Grinch in Austin: Local Festivities This December

If you're fighting with yourself to take off your snuggie and put on your best to leave the house and head somewhere grinch-less in this City, here's a list of festive things to do in Austin this December:

Now thru Mid-January: Ice Skating at Whole Foods
10am-9pm, $10. No, you do not need ice skates of your own, just little or no shame!

Fri 12/4: Master Pancake Theatre Christmas Show at The Alamo Drafthouse Ritz
7:30 pm, 10pm. $13.50. Get tickets here.

Sat 12/5: Capitol Tree Lighting and Festivities
6-9 pm, Free. Sing-a-long and lighting at 7.

Sun 12/6: Zilker Tree Lighting Ceremony
6pm, Free. Come take part in a tradition that's been standing strong since 1967 and enjoy hot cocoa and kettle corn while you're at it.

Thurs 12/10: Christmas Pop Sing-a-Long at The Alamo Drafthouse Ritz
9:45pm, $12. Now you can put your detailed memory of Nsync's "Christmas" to best use. Tickets.

Sat 12/12: Zilker Tree Holiday Fun Run
6:30 pm, Early Registration: $22 adults/$17 children. The run trail goes through Zilker Park and the festival of lights.

Black Friday's Nemesis: Cyber Monday

As I waste time browser-shopping on the internet this week (like I have money after the weekend's money-spending festivities), I realize I'm not alone. Apparently, Monday Nov. 30th has been deemed "Cyber Monday" the online continuation of Black Friday. A national survey predicted that a record 100 million American's would online-shop for the biggest internet bargains on Monday.

Last year, 85 million participated in the holiday click-shopping on Cyber-Monday. The internet seems to be pretty on-tap with it's consumerism game.

(Via: NyDaily News)