My Kinda Bar
It’s very important we girls follow the basic life motto: Treat Yo’Self. As such, my friend Jen conveniently needed someone to style as she finished her training at Dry Bar. Drinking + pampering? Consider it done.
I can tell that we are gonna be friends.
Dry Bar is a fairly new concept — No cuts. No color. Just blowouts. For $40, you can enjoy some wine, fun music, a movie (if you’re in the VIP room, holler!) and a sleek new style.
As they say, “Pick your poison.”
The ambiance is bright and friendly, the products and styles are named after drinks of choice. Its commitment to that detail makes the entire experience enjoyable and engaging.
Shaken, not stirred.
I was very pleased with the service, both from Jen and the other consultants. I opted for the Cosmo-Tai, a mix of the Cosmopolitan and Mai Tai styles. My hair transformed into a voluminous cascade of curls, and the 100 Proof Treatment Oil left my locks soft and shiny.
Selfies are still in, right?
Though I won’t be going on a weekly basis, I’ll definitely return for special occasions. Why not treat yo’self to a birthday blowout or pre-date pampering? Side note: If you know a nice, straight young man who can appreciate a woman with sometimes-gorgeous hair, hook a sista up.
The life of a cover girl.
What’s your take on this new trend? Share your stories in the comments section!
WO: Weekly Obsessions
This week is going by entirely too slowly. I met friends for a round (or four) last night, and none of us could believe it was only Tuesday. What is it about hump day that we can’t seem to get over? The world may never know. In the meantime …
- Hale & Hearty: Since the weather refuses to cooperate and I’m wearing a coat in May, this soup staple is a Godsend. The oyster crackers alone make the literally three-minute walk worth it.
- Investigation Discovery: My roommate got me hooked on this truly disturbing channel, featuring such shows as “Dates from Hell” and “Wives with Knives.” I can’t wait for the summer premiere of “Southern Fried Homicide.” Real life.
- Hunter Bell: Winner of this season’s “Fashion Star,” this little lady is a designer who understands what it takes to sell. I can’t wait to try her fit & flare dress, among countless others.
- “Will You Be There” – Michael Jackson: I’ve been on more conference calls than usual this week, and our waiting room music is reminiscent of this MJ classic. Just try and tell me you didn’t rewind the VHS at least thrice to hear it again.
I’m Not an Addict, I Just Play One on TV
I have a love-hate relationship with the DVR — it’s convenient, keeps me entertained and can be a real time-saver (ha). On the other hand, it doesn’t always record properly and gives me anxiety when the storage nears 2/3 full.
More painstaking than that, however, is the annual wait to see which shows will be renewed by major networks. While piles of crap like “2 & 1/2 Men” float by — TEN seasons, really?! — gems with actual merit are removed without a second thought. I’m still mourning the loss of “Best Friends Forever,” though I enjoy Jessica as the Marshall’s lady and Lennon’s brief appearance on “Mad Men.”
I’m so grateful ABC execs recognized the powerhouse that is “Nashville,” but I’m severely disappointed to see “Happy Endings” come to a, well … unhappy ending.
Although my taste level is questionable — I will defend The Real Housewives for sheer entertainment value at all costs — I cannot fathom why wit and charm are passed over for laugh tracks and seediness. Blech.
After finales air throughout the next few weeks, my DVR will finally get a much-needed break … because the only thing worse than the spring schedule coming to a close is the utter despair a “summer season” brings. TGFRHONJ!
Weekend Recap
I’m generally not one to brag, but I have to say: My weekend was just plain awesome. It feels like I’m hitting my stride in my new city, and I couldn’t be happier with the experiences and memories I’m gaining.
Friday: SA-KE-BOMB!
- All You Can Eat Sushi + Sake @ Chinatown East – sushi was delicious, but the unlimited sake bombs reeeally got the night going
- One and One – a new favorite spot, it’s chill upstairs and a thumping club downstairs
- Dancing at Pianos – worth the $5 cover to go upstairs for better music and quicker service
- We hit another bar after that, but I don’t remember the name (sign of a good time)
Saturday: Low-Key Lounging
- Slept in for the first time in weeks and accomplished nothing – oddly OK with this
- Wharf in Murray Hill – visited our friend who works there for pre-gaming
- Brooklyn house party – celebrated friends who graduated from hair school, law school, design school and another who passed the NY State Bar
Sunday: Fun-Filled Finale
- Boozy brunch at The Guilty Goose in Chelsea – very strong mimosas alongside eggs benedict with a jalapeño hollandaise
- Stopped in to see Heroes & Villains at FIT – fascinating facts featured in fun and interesting exhibits
- Made our way home to watch SNL – Kristen Wiig’s return to the stage at 30 Rock did not disappoint
- Phone date with Magz – because she should be celebrated every day for what she put up with from us
Though it went by way too quickly, I had an absolute blast throughout this weekend. I can’t wait to enjoy more of this improved weather and share my finds with you guys. Cheers!
First World Problems
It’s time for the next installment of my latest series, wherein I complain about first world problems — AKA things I should be grateful I have access to but annoy me anyway.
Today’s post is inspired by the ever-bitter Ben, of the aptly named Ben’s Bitter Blog. Check out his rants for guaranteed grumblings and — more importantly — laughs.
Women wear high heels for a variety of reasons: to add height, feel sexier, complete an outfit or make a statement. But what often comes with this killer footwear is a plethora of problems that last long after the other shoe drops.
The long-term effects of wearing high heels are far from fabulous. From corns and callouses to bunions and EXTRA TOES, I have to ask: Why do we put ourselves through this pain?
Yikes. A. Bee.
Future Mother of the Year Kim Kardashian claims to be more comfortable in heels because flats hurt her back. Girl, we have even bigger problems — so we’ll save that for a later date.
But I walked behind a woman yesterday who struggled so much for those three blocks, I wanted to hail her a cab to put her out of her misery. The forecast suggested a downpour, yet she actively chose to traipse through New York in stilettos she couldn’t handle.
Down goes Frazier.
I love dressing up as much as the next girl, but I can’t defend the trend of hobbling along for the sake of wearing sky-high shoes. The styles that used to be reserved for special occasions are now everyday office wear, and I don’t get it.
While I agree that a great pair of heels (any shoe, really) can make a statement, I do not think beauty is pain. If you’re struggling to walk, let alone stand — trade ‘em out for a wonderful wedge or (gasp!) seductive sandal.
And even if you can rock any heel height without fail, give your poor tootsies a break at least twice a week to minimize damage. Feet are gross enough without the swollen skin and blistered bunions. You’re welcome for that visual.
Such a Pain in the Neck
After four tattoos, countless dental procedures and a lifetime of awkwardness, you’d think my pain threshold would be pretty high.
I’ve just learned, though, that’s not the case: My neck’s completely out of whack and I’m being a giant baby about it.
I’m near-tears all day, and sleeping for more than 20 minutes is my latest Everest.
Is it too much to ask for a magic genie to fix me right up? Totally willing to use one of my wishes if it means I can live in peace.
I’m not trying to be dramatic or anything, but I literally feel like I’m going to die. Robin Williams can show up aaaanytime now.
Cannot even handle it.
WO: Weekly Obsessions
This one’s for the ladies! (If you didn’t immediately think of Tina Fey DJing in “Baby Mama,” then I don’t know if we can continue this relationship.
Anyway, this week is dedicated to some pretty awesome — if not just plain entertaining — women. Before we begin: Don’t you dare forget to celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday! Now let’s continue …
- Birthday Girls: It’s my aunt Lori’s and cousin Kelly’s birthdays (today and Saturday, respectively). One’s a teacher, the other a nurse — I wasn’t kidding the other day — so they deserve as much cake and presents as they can carry.
- Dear Girls Above Me: Charlie McDowell’s ultra-entertaining commentary is on pre-order in book form! A recent fave? “I got another ticket for parking in front of a fire hydrant when there wasn’t a fire!” –At least you have an airtight court case.
- Skinnygirl Margaritas: Bethenny Frankel, notably of RHONY fame, is the mastermind behind the Skinnygirl brand. So go on and keep raising a glass for Cinco de Drinko (minus the guilt)!
- “Girl on Fire” – Alicia Keys: If ever there was a women-kick-ass anthem, it’s this one. I prefer the Nicki Minaj “Inferno” version, but either way, it’s a powerhouse hit.
You can try but you’ll never forget her name.
Images courtesy of: All Posters, The Shop Addicts, Dear Girls Above Me, tumblr
