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January 1st, 2010
Let’s talk shoes. We saw some things “happen” in the world of footwear in 2009 that we don’t want to see carried on into 2010. You may not agree—but let’s discuss! First up: Open-toe “Shooties” (a hybrid of shoe + booties). These are bizarre and wrong. If it’s cold enough to require full ankle-coverage, your toes should not be poking out. And frankly, we’re not sold on Shooties—even without the pokey toes. Next: The return of platform flip-flops. In the world of rubber footwear/flip-floppery, there is a universally accepted standard: the thin, plain-black flop. Anything else and you’re on your own—add patterns or sparkles and it’s your call, lady. But please—please—do not come at us in flip-flops with a wedge heel. Those are for denizens of “The Jersey Shore” only. Also: The return of chunky heels. Say no more. Finally: Over-the-knee boots. We saw plenty of these in magazines and on Miley Cyrus (paired with Daisy Dukes, natch), but thankfully the “Average Jane” didn’t jump on the “Pretty Woman” bandwagon. And for that, ladies, we thank you. As for 2010, we heard there was some Lucite in the mix… heaven help us all. |
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Portland Picks: |
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| 1 | Getting Our Goat We once had a psychic urge to us to buy new sheets. It wasn’t that his crystal ball was peering into our housekeeping laxities; it was for good luck. While we’re all stocked up on bedding, we do feel a bit of an itch for some new duds. But after the post-holiday glut, our wallet’s feeling a little lean. (It’s the only thing on us that is.) Billy Goat Vintage on Alberta is just what we need to bring us luck in the New Year—or any other time. We fell in love with a tartan wool coat. And the ’50s sunglasses. And great ’70s lace-up sweaters and off-the-shoulder tops. Not to mention delicate necklaces, a fantastic crocheted dress, and a showy yellow crinoline. The men’s stuff at Billy Goat is no slouch, either. Cool ties, boots, and suits. Great hats. Even kids’ stuff. And home and housewares, too—everything from a Snoopy lunchbox to a bar set. It’s all in great shape, and priced well. Maybe in 2010 dressing up will come back. We hope so. But it doesn’t take a psychic to tell us that we’ll be making return trips to Billy Goat Vintage. Billy Goat Vintage |
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| 2 | Sweets for the Sweet The dentist makes us nervous. Don’t get us wrong; we love a good cleaning every six months and loathe the idea of ever letting our dental hygiene “go,” but post-cleaning, when the doc comes in to make her final “inspection,” we find ourselves on pins and needles wondering what sort of suggestions she might make… and praying to the good-karma gods that whatever she suggests won’t involve any combo of our gums and her needles. That being said, our sweet tooth will totally vouch for the presence of sugar in our lives. Dentist or no, we need sweets, so we were uber-excited to see Northwest Sweets open up. Chock full of homemade candies like caramels, truffles and toffee, Northwest Sweets is heaven. They also stock retro candy that makes us feel like little girls again. We also really love that owner/candymaker, Steve, is front and center, creating his delicacies right out there in the open for all to see. It’s like watching magic happen. Maybe if we’re feeling sassy next time we visit, we’ll pick up a little giftie for that scary dentist! Northwest Sweets |
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| 3 | Kick Some Booty—Your Own! We love the way we feel after we exercise, but it seems like something always comes up to thwart a workout. There’s a deadline or a friend to meet, the dog just barfed on the sofa… yep, there’s always an excuse. And then… we found Fierce Fitness Kickboxing. It was like an exercise epiphany—we were “treadmill” types before we tried it, and the first class we went to was almost like a dare. But it was really fun, and we saw results the first week. And when our jeans started to fall off, we practically cried. And no more “Bingo Arms”—suddenly we had “guns” thanks to the targeted whole-body sculpting and toning. Fierce Fitness also helps with aerobic conditioning, core-strength training and balanced nutrition, so you’ll be dropping dress sizes before you know it—one client lost six inches off her waist in six months. You’ll work your buns off—but you’ll get the support you need to achieve your goals. You’ll also get in the best shape of your life. Fierce Fitness KickboxingMorning or evening classes 503.245.9500 www.fiercefitness.com |
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| Chick Picks: | |||
| 1 | Call on Me Awkward moment #741: We make a new friend or potential business contact; we hastily pass along our personal deets to them via blah business card or crumpled cocktail napkin. Classy. Thankfully, Lisa Nelson anticipated these social foibles and began creating adorable yet practical personalized calling cards as part of her charming stationery line: My Little Buffalo. Now we can pass along our digits and URLs ever-so-nonchalantly with an air of silver-screen grace… at least, until we spill wine on our blouse two minutes later. |
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| 2 | Uh-Oh, It’s Magic There was a time when washing our hair every day was mandatory. But now we're older, lazier and cheaper, and the idea of spending time and hot water on a daily shampoo just seems, well, wasteful. Enter Magic, from Portland's Sidlab Haircouture. It’s no misnomer—this miraculous dry shampoo keeps a good-hair day going, with just a spray and shake that takes mere seconds of your time. Perfect for all hair colors, this is one weekend solution that doesn't require extra effort... or a special wand. |
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| 3 | Make Mine a Mantra Something about the New Year has us thinking about starting fresh, and what better place to renew yourself than in your morning shower? Instead of letting your mind wander, focus it on positive thoughts! Cleansing Thoughts make it happen—choose from “Health & Happiness,” “Enlightenment,” “Peace & Prosperity” and more… just attach one of the water-resistant cards to your shower wall, repeat the mantra, and let the healing begin. |
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| Cocktail of the Week: | |||
Leave it to local fave New Deal Distillery to produce a vodka that makes us sweat. Their Hot Monkey Pepper-Infused Vodka has a hint of heat that will warm you up in winter (and summer). We absolutely love it in a Bloody Mary, but you can spice up any vodka-based cocktail with this glorious spirit. Try Hot Monkey in tropical drinks—we dare you. (Warning: It’s tough to go back once you’ve tried it!) |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | Mink’s Winter Sale is On! Were you home on New Year’s Eve because you didn’t have a party dress? Remedy that, ladies! Save 20–70% off seasonal items at Mink—chic clothing you’ll absolutely adore (dresses, sweaters & more). And don’t be shy—ask the staff for help—they’re fit specialists. Bonus: Mention Portland Picks and get 10% off new arrivals! What: Mink’s Seasonal Sale |
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| 2 | Mandy Moves to Ginger! One of our favorite stylists, Mandy Zelinka (until recently, owner of 77 salon), can now be found at Ginger Salon in the Pearl. She made a big decision to sell, but like Oprah, she’s going into “retirement”—sorta. Book an appointment with Mandy at Ginger for a fabulous cut, color or styling—and if you’re lucky, the scoop! What: Mandy Zelinka at Ginger Salon |
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| 3 | After-Xmas Sale at Mabel & Zora! Shopaholics, rejoice: It’s time to get your fill of Mabel & Zora’s adorable looks at bargain prices—their After-Christmas Sale brings you savings of 25–75% off candles, belts, gifts and clothing you’ll love from Michael Stars, Trina Turk, Kersh, LA Made, Max & Cleo and more. (Be sure to tell them Portland Picks sent you!) What: After-Christmas Sale at Mabel & Zora |
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| 4 | Showcase of Wine & Cheese ...you had us at “cheese”… The Showcase of Wine & Cheese benefits the Boys & Girls Club of Portland, and this tasty evening will present more than 300 exceptional wines, gourmet cheeses and delish hors d’oeuvres, plus entertainment. Bring your friends & consider upgrading to a "Gold" ticket. Trust us—it will be so worth it! What: Showcase of Wine & Cheese |
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Let’s start 2010 off right by spreading the “shop/eat/drink/explore local” love! Sign up your friends for free subscriptions at www.PortlandPicks.com and www.PortlandPicksforMen.com |
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