Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Rehearse New Year's Eve at DoV's Let's Face the Music & Dance

2011 is fast approaching and one new year's eve is simply not enough. Do something special and dress up for a night of dancing tomorrow night at The Players as Dances of Vice and The Midnight Follies present "Let's Face the Music & Dance" New Year's Eve Eve celebration.

There'll be swing dancing, cabaret, tango and blues music, and, of course, cocktails.  Featuring music by the J.C. Hopkins Biggish BandLES Hot Club, and Gelber & Manning, burlesque and caberet acts from Kiki Valentine, Veronica Vardlow, and Medianoche, and even performances from Shien Lee, herself!  

There will also be tango lessons by the School of Argentine Tango.

Dances of Vices will give you plenty of practice before the big night to remember. 

Let's Face the Music & Dance
December 30th, 2010
16 Gramercy Park South
New York, NY 10003
212-475-6116

General Admission $20 (at the door $25)
VIP Admission $35 (at the door $40)





Tuesday, December 28, 2010

The White Rabbit Requests Your Presence at the Morris-Jumel Museum on Jan 8th

While International Lolita Day has past and the next one is months away, that doesn't mean you have to wait long for your invitation to the next party. The Morris-Jumel Mansion was George Washington's make-shift war room during the Revolution. Now it's a museum for historical artifacts and furniture for any Lolita who would like to travel back in time (at least temporarily).

On January 8th from 1-4PM, the Morris-Jumel Mansion is inviting all children, adults, tea lovers, and Lolitas* for a good old fashioned Victorian tea party. Learn proper tea party etiquette, including how to "take tea" properly as well as make a get the opportunity to make your very own Victorian Treasure Box.

*All dolls and usakumyas are also welcome.

Victorian Tea Party
Saturday, January 8th
1-4PM

Morris-Jumel Mansion
65 Jumel Terrace
(between 160th and 162nd Streets)
New York, NY 10032
212-923-8008

Monday, December 27, 2010

Walter Reade Theater presents two nights of Aronofsky

After seeing Black Swan, are you curious about Darren Aronofsky's work? Want to see if all his movies are just as psychologically mind-bending? Are you interested in meeting the man himself?

On January 4th and 5th, the Walter Reade Theater will screening several of Aronofsky's work from Pi (1998) to Requiem for a Dream (2000) to The Fountain (2006) to The Wrestler (2008). And if you've never see The Wrestler, you should because you'll get the opportunity to see the man himself (No, not Mickey Rourke). Darren Aronofsky appearing for a post-screening discussion after Wednesday's screening, and will be showing clips from his latest film -- Black Swan.

If you haven't seen Black Swan, see it, and keep a notepad hand if you want to ask Aronofsky questions later. I recommend asking "Did you have nightmares after making this movie?" or "Do you keep looking out of the corner of your eye for strange things you think happen when you're not looking?"

(Spotted on Nerd York City.)

Sunday, December 26, 2010

A Year of Lolita and Resolutions

2010 was the Year of the Lolita
Now that Christmas is over, it's onto celebrating the beginning of the end of 2010.

I'm not one for big crowds or standing in the cold for six hours waiting for a ball to drop, so I will be counting down indoors. Perhaps turning on ABC's Rocking New Year's Eve.

This year has been a very good year for me, especially in terms of Lolita.  I acquired three pieces from my "dream dress" wishlist. I've made a whole lot of Lolita friends -- who've now become friends who just happen to be Lolitas. The fashion has slowly integrated into my regular fashion that I can barely tell the difference.

And then I started this blog.

After getting into Lolita, I wanted to create a blog -- but I didn't want those typical Lolita blogs where you talk about being a Lolita with occasional haul videos/posts. I wanted a blog that would still talk about Lolita but will additional tips that relates to Lolita, but also in regular life. It's a long way from being one of the more known bloggers in the Lolita community, but I'm not losing steam yet which is good. So I do hope that you continue to read it and discover New York the way I have and continue to do so.

Friday, December 24, 2010

Happy Holidays! Plus Things to do on Christmas Day.

I just wanted to give a moment and say Merry Christmas and happy holidays to everyone! To my fellow Lolitas, new and old and around the world, I hope you're holidays  are full of frills.

Unlike most cities, New York City doesn't shut down (completely) on Christmas Day.  So if you're done opening all those presents, or just tired of your crazy uncle here are a list of things you can do in the city.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

For Last Minute Shoppers - Select Holiday Markets Close on 24th!

Did you have a chance to visit the holiday markets yet? Planning to do some last-minute Christmas shopping? Or found something that caught your eye to buy later?

Think fast because not all the markets will still be around after Christmas.

The following holiday markets are open only until the 24th:

Union Square Holiday Market
Union Sq & W 14th St
New York, NY 10003

Thursday, December 23: 10:00am - 9:00pm
Friday, December 24: 10:00am - 4:00pm

Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Columbus Circle
New York, NY 10025

Thursday, December 23: 10:00am - 8:00pm
Friday, December 24: 10:00am - 8:00pm

Grand Central Holiday Fair
Grand Central (Vanderbilt Hall)
15 Vanderbilt Avenue
New York, NY

Thursday, December 23: 10:00am - 8:00pm
Friday, December 24: 10:00am - 8:00pm

Monday, December 20, 2010

H&M NYC Project

I recently passed by the H&M on Madison Ave and notice one of the windows was replaced by a black wall with a collage of TV screens.

It's called the H&M NYC Project. H&M wants to show you the real, fashionable side of New York. No models, no designers, just you showing off your incredible fashion sense.

If you happen to stop by their store, there's a photo booth by the entrance on your right for taking pictures. You take a picture in the photo booth, and it's displayed on their store windows as part of a rotating photo slideshow. It will also be uploaded on their official flickr page. Or tweet your picture and use the tag #HMNYC.

This is a great opportunity for Lolitas to strut their stuff in addition to daily_lolita. So grab your most stylish coordinate, head down to H&M, have a mini photoshoot, and maybe do a little shopping afterwards.

I'm not sure how long this event/performance project will last, but if you need a legimate excuse to dress up, head to H&M.

Let's show some New York Lolita pride!

H&M NYC Project
505 Fifth Avenue
at 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017

Twitter: HMNYCProject
Flickr: H&M NYC Project

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Where's Broadway? Shows to see before 2011

The economy has been rough on everyone, including Broadway. Avenue Q moved back off-Broadway. After a long wait Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark is finally showing previews for its January 2011 release. Some shows have too good a cast to change actors (i.e. Promises, Promises). Some simply can’t muster the effort to go on for another year no matter how good it is (i.e. Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson).

So if you want to do the tourist thing, see a Broadway show.

But how do I get tickets?
If you have a particular show in mind and want to make sure you have good seats go to the show’s main website. Often times they will send you to Ticketmaster, but sometimes they have coupon deals on the website so check there first.

The other option is the TKTS Discount Booth. If you’re more concerned about getting a low price than what show you see, this is place to go. Often these are tickets that have gone unsold, as such when you buy them that day the price is often between 20% - 50% off the regular price. Sweet deal right?

The disadvantage to this is that you need to wait in line and you probably won’t know what performances are available until you get there. So make a list of at least 10 shows you’ve been dying to see. There are also two marquees that rotate available shows and now the Times Square location has live helpers in case you arrive at the ticket counter, your show is sold out, and you don’t know what else to see.

If you are not a waiting-in-line type of person, there are also two other locations Downtown and in Brooklyn.

Now onto the shows.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Tribeca Retail Club presents Holiday Bonanza 2010

Still trying to find last minute gifts? This Friday, December 17th, the Tribeca Retail Club (TRC) is hosting "Holiday Bonanza 2010" - an independent designers trunk show and shopping and beauty event from 6PM - 10PM.

For people and friends who would rather support designers trying to make a name, this is an event you should definitely check out. With an cocktails, DJ Lil' Hungry at the boards, shopping, and goody bags what's not to love?

Designers include Sole Discretion, Berit New York, Yamerra Skin Care, Candace Blake, Crystal Knuckles, Kat Basics, Laser Cosmetica, Finishing Touches, and Ardistia, just to name a few.

Currently only VIP tickets are available but it includes the open bar and you receive goody bag containing exclusive products from TRC's sponsors. Holiday Bonanza is TRC's last event of the season so get your VIP tickets before it's all sold out. For more news and updates, check out TRC's blog.

Tribeca Retail Club's Holiday Bonanza
Friday December 17th 2010
6PM - 10PM

28 West 27th Street, 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10010

Admission: VIP $15 / Door $20

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Crumbs Cupcake Giveaway at 775 Columbus Ave Today

A bit last minute, but if you happen to wander around uptown, stop by Crumbs' newest location. Why you ask? Not because you crave their Peppermint Hot Cocoa cupcake (December's Cupcake of the Month) - a chocolate cupcake filled with buttercream filling with peppermint cream cheese frosting and coated with crushed peppermint candies. (Well, maybe you should stop by for that after all.)

To celebrate their new store, Crumbs is giving away 1000 cupcakes starting at 8AM until they run out.  So get them while their fresh and before there's none left.  This is one Early Bird Special you should not miss out on.

*Note: Peppermint Hot Cocoa is not actually hot.

Crumbs Bake Shop
775 Columbus Ave
New York, NY

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Six places to go when the weather is frightful

Winter's definitely here in the Big Apple. It's colder, windier and the locals are a tad bit grumpier than usual. This morning the temperature clocked in at a brisk 28 degrees. So bundle up, layer on those petticoats, and don't forget your bunny-shaped earmuffs on your way out.

Still feeling cold-blooded? Here are some places that I recommend to warm you up from the inside out.

Monday, December 6, 2010

This Friday Dances of Vice Holiday Ball!

Are you dying for an excuse to dress up and go all out? On December 11th, Dances of Vice (DoV for short) asks all little girls and boys to dress in their best and head to Rebel NYC for "The Secret Life of Toys."

A winter ball unlike any other featuring music from Drew Nugent & the Midnight Society and performances from Company XIV, the Minsky Sisters, and a fashion show by I Do Declare -- it will be a dream you won't want to wake up from.

Doe Deere from Doe Deere Blogazine and creator of Lime Crime Makeup, will also be there giving free makeovers for anyone who wants to get into the true spirit of Christmas, Dances of Vice way.

So eat, drink, and be merry with Dances of Vice this Friday!

(Dress code asks for Little Bo Peep, Hansel & Gretel, Mary Contrary, Jack Nimble, Toy Soldiers, Dolls, Little Boy Blue, Puss in Boots, Wind-up Ballerinas, Miss Muffet, Jack in the Box, Queen of Hearts, etc - or vintage and formal evening attire)

Dances of Vice Holiday Ball
December 11th, 2010
9PM-2AM
Admission: $20, 19+ (ID required)

251 West 30th St.
(between 7th and 9th Avenue)

Thursday, December 2, 2010

A Holiday So Nice, They Held It Twice.

It's not officially marked on your calendar. You don't have an extra day off from work or school. You don't exchange presents (unless you want to). However despite the lack of perks, this holiday does have one: celebrating your love of Lolita fashion.

International Lolita Day (ILD) is a celebration of all things Lolita. With the increasing trend of Lolita fashion, girls (and boys) around the world wanted to have a day devoted to their love and dedication to the fashion to share with other Lolitas near or far or on the Internet. No one really knows how it began or who decided it, but it is an observant holiday that is equal to every known holiday combined.

Like Thanksgiving, we reflect on why and how we got into the fashion. Like Christmas, we get together with others. Like New Year's, we think about how we've grown and how we should improve Lolita-selves. And like Easter, we dress in our finest and best to show the world how proud we are to be a part of a fashion that promotes layers, lace, and petticoats.

A fashion worn throughout the year, in all season -- International Lolita Day was held twice a year to leave no frill behind. The first Saturday of June to show others you can still keep cool in petticoats and in December to teach others how bundling up can be less frumpy and more cute.

This Saturday marks my second year celebrating International Lolita Day. It was a tough decision on what to do this year, I'm going to see La Boheme at the Metropolitan Opera with friends.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Santa Claus Comes Early: Betsey Johnson Sample Sale 12/1 - 12/4

The best way to start off your Christmas shopping is to do a little shopping for yourself!

If you're in town next week, you are in for a treat - Betsey Johnson is having a sample sale from 12/1 - 12/4.  Like typical sales the days up the prices go down.  However don't wait until the last day because that dress you saw Wednesday may not be there Saturday.

So make that list and check it twice because Betsey's coming to town.

Betsey Johnson Sample Sale
Millenium Broadway Hotel
145 W 44th St.
6th Floor

12/1 10AM - 9PM
12/2 10AM - 9PM
12/3 10AM - 9PM
12/4 10AM - 7PM


via Betsey Johnson's official twitter

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Out and About in Lolita: NYC Style


You already got the basics down for how to dress Lolita, and you've RSVP'ed for an upcoming meetup. So the big question now is: what are you going to wear?

While New York City is the fashion capital of the world that doesn’t mean New Yorkers and tourists alike wholly accept Lolita as a fashion. They'll probably look at you and then walk away, whisper, or worse, follow you onto the train for further harassment. Now does this mean you should never wear Lolita outside and in public? Of course not. If you want to enjoy the company of your frilly friends without the incessant worry of being followed by leary eyes here are some things to consider:

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Cupcake of the Week - Toffee

I have to give Crumbs credit. My favorite candy would have to be either Heath bars or Symphony chocolate bars.  Why? I simply love toffee. Or rather any treats that have toffee pieces in them.

That's why I am in love with this week's Cupcake of the Week - a chocolate cake cupcake with cream cheese frosting topped with toffee crumble and chocolate drizzle.

I just had to have one I forgot to tell everyone about it.


Check it out this week as well as keep update with spur-of-the-moment deals on their Twitter feed. 

Monday, November 15, 2010

Grand Central Holiday Shops Opens Today + Light Show info

The holiday season is definitely upon us. Winter holiday shop displays are starting to appear, the Bryant Park Holiday Market is open, and now the Grand Central Holiday Fair. Between now and Christmas Eve, if you have some time to spare waiting for your train or just killing time check out the holiday shops. I recommend stopping by the hat shop -- all hats/fascinators are made in France.

Another event to see is the Grand Central Kaleidoscope Holiday light show. Starting 11AM on November 30th, New Yorkers and tourists alike can enjoy laser light shows every half hour.

Grand Central Holiday Fair
Grand Central (Vanderbilt Hall)
November 30th, 2010 - December 24th, 2010
15 Vanderbilt Avenue
New York, NY

Kaleidoscope Holiday Show
Grand Central (Main Concourse)
November 30th, 2010 - January 1,2011

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

This Just In: Met will have McQueen in 2011


It was a sad, sad day when Alexander McQueen left this world. However he has left the fashion world with inspiration that will live on in the minds of future designers.

While thinking long and hard on how to really pay tribute to McQueen, the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute said they will hold an exhibition dedicated to McQueen in May 2011.

"Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty" will be a retrospective exhibit on the late designer and his collections and contribution to the fashion world. 




Seeing Unicorns: Project Unicorn at the El Taller

Metamorphose's Twinkle Journey
Lolitas and unicorns go together like birthdays and ponies. They are a symbol of a roaming freedom that exists only in fantasies. Whether you are young or old you've probably wanted one at some point in time. Or you've kept up your obsession with a shrine in your close.

If you're ever in Manhattan this winter and need a unicorn fix check out the unicorns at the Marionette Theatre in Central Park in honor of Camomile Hixon's latest collection, "Project Unicorn."

The exhibition opens on Thursday, November 11th at the Alexis Grady Gallery at the El Taller with an opening reception to meet the artist. So iron out that Pink Macaroon Unicorn Fantasy dress and primp yourself out to be the best unicorn princess you can be!


Meet the Artist Reception
November 11th, 2010
6-8PM


Project Unicorn: Camomile Hixon
November 11 - December 30, 2010
El Taller
2710 Broadway
3rd Floor
New York, NY 10025
212-665-9460




Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Crumbs Cupcake of the Week - Butterscotch

The cold chill of winter came fast which means New York is gearing up for the winter holidays! Which gives everyone an excuse to either stop by Bryant Park for some hot chocolate or just wander about the city in search of the best hot fudge sundae. 

Although butterscotch is best served drizzled over ice cream, I'll settle for Crumbs' vanilla cupcake with butterscotch cream cheese to satisfy my sweet tooth.

Check it out this week as well as keep update with spur-of-the-moment deals on their Twitter feed. 

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Needs more peanut sauce

MalaysiaKitchenNYC at Grand Central
I love Malaysian food.  I love the spicy sweet kick of peanut sauce over satay, and washing it down with a warm glass of teh tarik.  This past spring, I got a chance to visit Malaysia on the east side for a crazy family reunion. Over the years my palate has become more eager to try new things, so this was a perfect opportunity to try everything. There was good food and then there was food to try once and never again (i.e. sea cucumber).

The reason I'm fawning over past vacation memories was because today I happened to stop by Grand Central's Vanderbilt all to check out the last day of Eat|Drink|Explore  MalaysianKitchenNYC - a weekend culture celebration of all things Malaysian.  They had things like chicken and beef satay, chicken curry over rice, mee goreng (noodles with curry, vegetables, and chicken). While I was mainly there for the food, I was impressed by the large stage setup on one end with native dance performances.  At the other end there were more flat-screen TVs showing the performances if you couldn't see because of the crowd.

I couldn't decide on what to eat, so I went with a sampling of chicken satay from a vendor that is an upcoming restaurant collaboration with Todd English and Ian Chalermkittichai. Unfortunately it was so good I didn't have time to take a picture of it so you'll just have to take my word for it.  Or check out their restaurant when it opens in November.

Friday, November 5, 2010

Bryant Park Holiday Market Opens Today!

While I do miss the tents at Bryant Park, it also meant that the ice rink and the holiday markets would be set-up earlier.  The ice rink opened last weekend, but it's not the same without the sweet aroma of kettle corn and apple cider and hot chocolate.

So if you have a chance stop by Bryant Park today and get a first look of what will be around for the next month or so. Or go ice skating for a bit and buy a cup of apple cider with a cinnamon stick to warm you up. Or find out what exactly is a chocolate syringe.

The Holiday Shops at Bryant
Bryant Park
Between 40th and 42nd Street and 5th and 6th Avenue
November 5, 2010 - January 2nd, 2011

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

See Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson for $50

Ever imagined what any of our founding fathers would be if they were a twenty-something, emo rock star? From the mind of Michael Friedman, Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson is a musical rendition about just that. Dealing with populism, the Indian Removal act, and of course making time for his wife Rachel, Andrew Jackson has complicated life story that can only be illustrated through song and dance.

The producers of the show would like to show their political support with their "Jackson for a Grant" initiative which offers $50 tickets to the show through November 24th.

Just use the code BBJVOTE when you purchase your tickets on BroadwayOffers.com or purchase tickets at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theater box office (242 West 45th Street, Manhattan); or by call (212) 947-8844.

Monday, November 1, 2010

Crumbs Cupcake of the Month - Apple Cobbler

With the weather getting colder, nothing will warm you up better than a warm slice of apple pie.  Forget the pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving, dig into November with an Apple Cobbler cupcake from Crumbs. With a scoop of ice cream on top it will surely beat the average pie à la mode.

Check out more sweet tweets from Crumbs on Twitter.

Meet the real Duchess of Devonshire

Have you ever seen The Duchess? Well now you'll get a chance to meet the real Duchess of Devonshire.  Join the Frick Collection as they welcome Deborah Cavendish, the Dowager Duchess of Devonshire, and Charlotte Mosley, niece and editor, for a special meet-and-greet on November 2nd in honor of the release of Fizz and Sparkle: The Effervescent Life of Deborah, The Dowager Duchess of Devonshire.

No Reservations needed.
The Frick Collection is free after 5:45PM.


Fizz and Sparkle: The Effervescent Life of Deborah, The Dowager Duchess of Devonshire, The Dowager Duchess of Devonshire, with Charlotee Mosley
6:00-7:00 PM
November 10, 2010
The Frick Collection, Music Room
1 East 70th Street
New York, NY 10021
www.frick.org

Monday, October 25, 2010

Crumbs Cupcake of the Week - Madison Avenue

Mad Men may be over for this year, but you can at least pick yourself up with a Madison Avenue cupcake from Crumbs.

This week's Crumbs features a vanilla cupcake with raspberry filling. Topped with chocolate ganache and edge with almonds, this is a cupcake you don't need a high falutin sales pitch for this mouth-watering treat.  

I'm already sold on the picture. 

Check out more news on Crumbs' Twitter.



Sunday, October 24, 2010

It was a Dark and Stormy Night...

Ever since I've fallen in love with Lolita, I've been following several Lolita blogs.  One of my favorites is La Vida Frills. It's not one of your ordinary Lolita blogs with fashion advice, but incorporates her love of film as well.  And after going to a college that is famous for its communications school, I love being introduced to new movies, mainstream or independent.

Catching up on all my blogs, I noticed she had a contest about your "Dream" coordinate, which seems to take a step beyond finding and owning just a "dream" dress.

In addition to anime, I would have to say that Anne Rice introduced me onto the path of Lolita. I was a big fan in high school and throughout college.  Like a typically outcast I dressed gothic, but I leaned towards more Elegant Gothic.  However since I've discovered Lolita I have never dressed gothic at all, so this outfit is homage to my gothic and vampire roots.



Thursday, October 21, 2010

Macarons are the new cupcake


Macarons are an iconic symbol for Lolita. They appear in prints (i.e. Angelic Pretty’s Dreaming Macaron), jewelry and is a common food item to bring to picnics and outings. Personally, I’m not a big fan of almonds, which is the main component to macarons. Cupcakes are more my thing, but I’m getting ahead of myself.

(Macarons should not be confused with macaroons, as macaroons are made with coconut not almond paste.)

Now before I go any further, perhaps I should explain what exactly is a macaron. A macaron is like a small sandwich cookie, usually about the size of a silver dollar, filled with jam (sometimes crème), except much more difficult to make. Making macarons are like baking a soufflé because the recipe must be followed exactly as directed or else you’ll end up with charred inedible cookies instead of something light and crisp.  However practice makes perfect, and when you get them right, macarons are simply delicious. Violet LeBeaux has a great entry on how she made macarons.

A few local patisseries even organized Macaron Day at select shops to raise the reputation of this dainty delicacy. Last March marked the first year Macaron Day came to NYC. Do you have a favorite place to find macarons in the City?

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Crumbs Cupcake of the Week: the Chocolate Good Guy

Besides being a meal and a half, Crumbs not only has a Cupcake of the Month but a Cupcake of the Week. This week's cupcake is the Chocolate Good Guy. With all the colored sprinkles and chocolate, it's definitely something to pick up on your way home when your feeling down.

Check out more news on Crumbs' Twitter.

Thursday, September 30, 2010

New York, New York

New York City is one of the largest metropolitan cities in the world.  Tourists come visit Time Square just to take the iconic picture between Broadway and 7th Avenue. What most people don't know it is also has one of the largest Lolita communities.

This blog aims to provide Lolitas, fellow New Yorkers, and the occasional tourist some inside tips on the best way to get around, what's going on in the city, and where to find the best cupcake while dressed like one.  

I created this blog because New York City is a big city. A big city with so many events and places they more than often go unnoticed.  New York City is also one of the fashion capitals of the world -- one of the best excuses to wear Lolita.