Save Our Sole

One of our favorite stores in the whole wide world is Sole. Every piece they select is unique to Portland, big city chic, and ultra desirable. The space itself is gorgeous, modern, and bright, fitting nicely into its home in the Pearl’s Brewery Blocks...what has become some of the most desirable shopping in Oregon. If we had our own swanky loft apartment in the Pearl, it would be decorated just like this (warmed by the glint of fire reflecting off the handbags that would adorn the walls like works of art!) Who needs family photographs and coffee table books when you have purses, shoes, and jewelry to decorate a room; really, who even needs furniture?

They had these Frye boots (see image) that we desperately HAVE to have! We’re like Veronica, the spoiled girl who turns into a blueberry on Willie Wonka. We want to stomp up and down and throw a hissy fit. We want them! We want them right now, Daddy!

This is a shop that causes you to regress, don’t fight it. We must have the Jordi Labanda handbags and the Kelley Reece bangles (actually all their jewelry), and the candy color loafers from Blossom, and the big knit rainbow colored poncho, and the m.o.d. suede flower wedges, and, and, and,......everything; we must have everything!

Hey, epiphany...we’re grownups, we CAN have them! Well, then, you better hurry, in case we get there first.

Channel your Inner Hippy at Anthropolgie.

Anthropologie has always had that hippy/ethnic/Bohemian thing going, long before it was really in (again), like it is now. If you desire this sexy, messy, I am so confident even when I’m disheveled/devil may care look, for you and your home, Anthropologie is your one stop bohemian department store.

It’s filled with all things cool, from earthy, flouncy skirts, beaded sweaters, short little cropped crocheted sweaters for layering, camisoles, lace and adorned t-shirts.

They carry great cottage accents from pillows, quilts, and campy dishes, to gypsy silk bedding and candles and soaps and house wares. Beautiful books (like the Bohemian Manifesto) and handmade albums and clever hostess gifts and jammies and lingerie. It’s a wonderfully decorated space, warm and comfy with goods galore as far as the eye can see.

We just wanted to curl up in the delightful dressing room, close our eyes, and chant, “Om....”

Speaking of stars, just in time for the Oscars. Oh baby, it's never too early to be one.

Check out Dana Johnson’s new baby products site featuring unpredictable, edgy baby fashion. This locally owned company and web site was, pardon us, just born a week ago.

Your little Star Baby can really shine in their little surfer Vans, their Wild Child t-shirt, or their camo bibs and burp cloths (camo is all the rage for the tot set.) Pay them a visit and stock up. We see a baby shower in your future.

Relish the Thought

What more could we ask for? Our lives are finally complete!

You are royalty, well, a princess anyway, and deserve only the finest in luxury. And nothing speaks grandeur and lineage than thread count. Not only that, your eminence, we hear it takes years off your life. We’ve done some extensive, hands on (and other parts) research and we’re prepared to testify anywhere.

Relish, one of our favorite Portland stores, has expanded their fabulous repertoire to include bed linens, and not just any Jo Schmo bed linens. They have just introduced a line of 100% Italian cotton, 450-thread count (!) duvets and case/shams with screen-printed, nature-inspired designs.

These modern works of art from Amenity come in several colors, including our favorite chocolate brown design called, “Drift in Cocoa!” (Just the name conjures a heavenly slumber.)

Relish
433 NW 10th Ave
Portland, OR
p: 503.227.3779
www.relishstyle.com

Make it different, make it unique, make it you!

Whether it’s foil-lined invites to your Oscar party, or handmade invitations to your baby shower, K Bella will make it easy for you to sparkle!

Check out K Bella Invitations, a locally owned website of custom, darling, hand-created invitations and cards.

Personalized Groovy Girl notes and thank yous, handmade invitations with dizzying color, bright gems, and tons of personality like you.

We love the handmade baby announcements and wedding invites. Don’t do hum drum? These cards are as original as you.

Mind Your Manners

Regardless if your child answers to the name of Rumor, Apple, Moon Unit, or Jack, the impression they make is a reflection on you. Manners are a must, but sometimes your child can tune you out when they hear, “What do you say?” too often.

When Super Nanny isn’t available, turn to Portland’s own Manners-on-the-Go. Manners-on-the-Go holds their classes in Lake Oswego at The Palisades on McVey. Your kids will learn table manners, napkin use, how to write thank you notes, the 6-pillars of character, telephone skills, and much more.

Let someone else do the dirty work and reap the benefits of near-perfect children. And when friends comment how well behaved they are, you’ll graciously take all the credit!

For more information, contact
www.mannersonthego.com
503-888-0490

First, you must first purchase your extravagant gown!

You don’t need to spend obscene amounts of money for the Oscars, for cryin’ out loud, to be fabulous (but don’t tell Charlize Theron or Nicole Kidman. Shhhh!). You only need to enter Matisse on Northeast Broadway. They will take one look at you, cast your self-imposed dress requirements aside, and choose the most perfect glam outfit for you (and vintage handbag, and necklace, and silk Asian coat, and…)

Matisse is such a hidden morsel. It's a gem, a treasure trove. What makes this place is the shop’s owners and all the delightful folks who work here. They get to know you instantly. They pick things for you that you would otherwise cast aside, until you try them on, again and again, and love yourself in everything that they’ve chosen for you. Matisse gets the Academy Award! And you will gush as you thank them for the work of art they have created of you! Just like a Matisse!

Matisse
1411 NE Broadway
Portland, Or
503.287.5414

Okay, we're just saying…if Janet had this to hold herself in, she would have saved herself a lot of grief.

Want to guarantee your barely-there red carpet ensemble doesn't expose your carefully positioned ta-tas? Hollywood Fashion Tape to the Rescue! This easy to use double-stick tape is your solution to always looking as put together as the celebs. Keep it in your purse for all of your fashion woes; repair a fallen hem, place on the interior of a blouse so it will lay more smoothly, or just use it to make sure nothing comes plunging out of your dress besides your sexy neckline. This is a small investment for big peace of mind.

Available at Meringue in Lake Oswego

If you thought the old Hollywood razzle-dazzle was a thing of the past, you’ve obviously never planted your peepers on the exquisite treasures designer Gerard Yosca has been creating of late.

His handcrafted cuffs, brooches & pins are all made with vintage stones and gems, often offsetting Swarovski crystals with other semi-precious stones.

We adore the gorgeous hinged brass metal cuff with turquoise and crystals and his flamboyant, yet classy ostrich feather brooch with centered gems.

Get your red carpet bling on at www.mp.hairboutique.com

VaVa Voom! If you’ve heard of the Pussycat Dolls Burlesque Show you know it’s all about femininity, glamour and style. Since 1993 they’ve been camping it up in sultry, sexy costumes to entertain men and women (even hosting the occasional surprise celebrity guest --- think Brittany Murphy and Christina Aguilera) while they evoke old Hollywood glamour.

Now those clever foxes at Stila have come up with a limited edition palette that embodies what the Pussycat Dolls are all about…dramatic shimmer enhanced ivory, amethyst & black for eyes with a fresh pink blush to captivate than man of yours with or without the kitschy costume!

Takeouts...the perfect accessory to put a little twinkle in your eye and a shimmy in your shake. These clear, natural-feel silicone inserts add a full-cup size to your bust line. Best of all, they're removable... all of the fun and none of the commitment of more, ahem, permanent methods. Wondered what it would be like to have Pamela Lee’s worries? These, at least, are not for keeps, just for fun.

But how, you ask? Why with Butt-Boosting Lingerie, of course!

Thanks to the likes of J. Lo, we’ve moved on from ta-tas to tush. Butts are back in a BIG way. They are even dedicating swanky fitness classes in New York to chiseling that perfect butt. But who has time for that? Never fear, Bubbles is here! Bubbles is the new must-have jeans accessory!

This terrific booty lingerie uses your own assets to create a sexy profile with comfort and style! Use Bubbles to accentuate a small behind (Bubbles Bands) or for elegantly simple leg control (ThighShapers).

So come on ladies… give that tush a push, use your assets and improve that bottom line! (We never thought you’d hear that from us!)

How cool are these? Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Actor cookies. Bite into Johnny Depp, mmmm delish. Cast your vote by eating your choice, Annette Bening perhaps? Hillary Swank, maybe? These make the perfect dessert, hostess gift, or party favor for your Oscar Night Party.

Sold exclusively at www.Elenis.com

For the final radiant touch on the big night, bring out your inner diva with Benefit's Hollywood Glo.

Hollywood Glo gives a soft focus luminescence to your complexion. Just dab this finishing touch facial glo over makeup and the light reflecting pigments will highlight your facial features and cast a warm, delicate sheen that makes you a true starlet. You will notice immediate results. Achieving Hollywood glamour is right at your fingertips.

www.benefit.com or Meier and Frank
800-781-2336

This has to be our website of the week. Find out who's in the running, cast your vote, and for all the scoop when it's all over, check out oscar.com. For everything Oscar, this is the place to be.

www.oscar.com

Being a superstar is so easy, kick off your shoes and knock back a few of these and you’ll be feeling famous!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. vodka
• 1/2 oz. dry vermouth
• 1/2 oz. Goldwasser

Mixing instructions:
Shake all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Strain into a chilled martini glass.

Option: Garnish the glass with a slice of Star fruit (of course!)

For other clever drink ideas, log onto: www.thatsthespirit.com

Before the Oscars, were the Grammys.

Though reminiscent of "We Are The World” from way back when, this live Grammy version of the classic “Across the Universe” features a mix of headliners like Bono, Norah Jones, Alicia Keys and others.

“Across the Universe” is only available on I Tunes and 100% of the proceeds benefit UNICEF’S ongoing tsunami relief efforts. Have a listen. We think you’ll love it. “Nothing’s going to change my world.....” Oh, and you may need those hankies!

Sometimes it’s easier to end a relationship by hating the other person.

It’s far more painful when it just ends for reasons beyond your control. If this is familiar to you, here’s your cathartic heartbreak mix. Now listen, consume, obsess.

First, lock out the world, grab your tissues, and forgo the ice cream binge. Yes, missy, this calls for full on depression starvation! (See, there is always a silver lining.) Yeah, you’ll show him. But you have to be plenty depressed for this ‘divorce diet’ to kick in. If you haven’t lost your appetite after the “we have to talk” talk, and after these sad tunes, it’s time to pull out all the stops: Beaches, followed by Terms of Endearment.

This is good for at least 7 pounds. And then next time you see him, you will be looking so hot (and independent, and SO over him)!

And he will be sorry he let you get away....which, let’s face it, is really all you wanted anyway....so now you can move on.

• You are a Beautiful Soul (Jesse McCartney)
• But I guess it’s Over (Lindsay Lohan)
• I guess no You and Me (Lifehouse)
• Though Maybe Someday in my dreams (Bon Jovi)
• But for now Let Me Go (3 Doors Down)
• I promise, It’s alright (Echo & The Bunnymen)
• Though, Still I'm Sad (Dokken)
• With a tear in my eye, I’ll say the Sweetest Goodbye (Maroon 5)
• And I Wish You Well (Sara Hickman)

Oh the pain. Sob, Sniffle (excuse us, this isn’t pretty). We hate sad stories. We live for happy endings. So what are you waiting for? Run along. It’s time to go and get yours!

• Natural wavy hair
• Center Part
• Ponytails
  (low and simple like Calvin Klein, or bouncy and up high like a school girl)
• Low Up-do’s
• Terrycloth active wear
• The Wedge shoe
• Floral wide skirts and floral dresses
  (think Hawaii)
• Gold and metallic accessories, bags and shoes
  (think Oscar glitz)
• Bohemian suede shoes, sandals, belts, handbags
• Jeans with Bling
  (think Britney, or the Bratz dolls.)
• Hats
  (avoid the sun)
• Hobo bags and big totes
• White all year
• Boy fit bikini’s
• Long strands of layered necklaces
• Loads of bangles
• Ballet flats
• Shrugs for layering

Bride and Prejudice, starring Aishwarya Rai, Martin Henderson, Daniel Gillies, Naveen Andrews, Namrate Shirodkar

If you haven't had enough romance this month, get your fix with an unexpected update on Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice…

Part musical, part comedy, and a whole lot of fun, this updated “Bollywood” version has all the gossip and comedy of errors the original had but with fantastic musical numbers and a major infusion of color and culture. When Lalita’s (the gorgeous former Miss Universe, Aishwarya Rai) mother sets out to marry all of her daughters while there is a wedding party in town, Lalita makes it clear she is waiting for true love. Along comes Will Darcy (played by the delicious Martin Henderson), and the fireworks begin. Will his arrogance ultimately turn her off? Or will her obviously sheltered life send him packing?

Jane Austen fans know the drill…these star-crossed lovers have obstacles to overcome but you’ll be entertained in the interim with witty dialogue and some spectacular music. Hurray for Bollywood!

Magalí Corzo Spring/Summer Trunk Show Premieres at First Thursday

Designer’s 2005 collection to be showcased at Wieden & Kennedy

• Who: Argentinean designer Magalí Corzo’s 2005 spring/summer collection will be featured at Wieden & Kennedy. Corzo moved to Portland from Argentina in 2001 and immediately set out to bring her Latin and European fashions to the Portland scene.
  
  Today, she is one of the most sought-after designers in the Pacific Northwest. Corzo was one of only five designers selected to showcase their designs at the 2003 fundraiser for the Portland Fashion Incubator, and was featured in the Incubator's Fashion Week at Portland's Pioneer Courthouse Square in which she won the People’s Choice Award. In October 2004, she presented her fashions on the runway at Vancouver Fashion Week in Vancouver, B.C.
• What: Corzo focuses on modern, fun, sporty fashions for women - clothes that fit for every occasion, from the lounge to the boardroom. Her latest creations explore color and texture, with a focus on comfort without sacrificing elegance. Her current line for women includes skirts, dresses, blouses, and pants.
  
  The show will also feature some of Portland’s best accessory designers. All items will be available for sale.
  Portland-based Paper Dragon Productions, a company whose focus is bringing people together to celebrate local art and fashion, will host the trunk show. Event includes a cocktail reception and Thai catering.
• Where: Wieden & Kennedy: 224 NW 13th Ave.
  6th floor Portland, OR 97209
• When: First Thursday on March 3, 2005
  - 6 pm open for all First Thursday patrons
• Contact: April Eklund, Paper Dragon Productions
  503-888-1491; april@paperdragonproductions.com

Looking for Something to do on Oscar night?

Dessert Noir Cafe & Bar Annouces "A Night with the Stars" 2005 Academy Awards Celebration

Dessert Noir Café & Bar is celebrating the 2005 Academy Awards with a culinary event to honor this year’s nominees. Executive Chef Howard Vandivner will present a special dinner and dessert menu inspired by the movies and actors in the running for the coveted Oscar statue. Magnolia Audio and Video will provide a large-screen HDTV for guests to enjoy the ceremony during the meal.

Sunday, February 27

The red carpet rolls out at 4:30 p.m.

Dinner service following shortly after the Academy Awards broadcast begins at 5:00 p.m.

Guests attending the celebration will be eligible for door prizes and giveaways as well as the grand prize of a dinner/dessert/movie package. This is a fun and exciting way to spend the evening with a group of friends. Valet parking will be available.

Reservations recommended. Call 503 626 8787.

Dessert Noir Cafe & Bar
Cedar Hills Crossing
3205 SW Cedar Hills Boulevard
Beaverton, Or

What’s the best thing that happens all year? It’s not your birthday. It’s not Christmas. It’s not the Great Pumpkin. Yes, it’s time, once again, for the once-a-year-only, super fantabulous, mega-outrageous

TWIST Annual SALE
(…and this years the sale turns Sweet 16 – so, party hard!)

• Doors Open – Friday, March 4th at 10:00 a.m.
• Doors Close – Sunday, March 15th at 6:00 p.m.
• Where – 30 NW 23rd Place/503-224-0334
  (downtown – 700 SW 5th Avenue in Pioneer Place – will have sale stuff too, but the really big deals will be at the 23rd Place location)

TWIST never has a sale EVER, except for this one, once a year, and Boy, is it a doozy! What’s the Deal?

Just for starters, everything in the store will be 10% off (with a few small exceptions like Chrome Hearts and Cathy Waterman – surely, you understand). Then, there will be tables overflowing with big-name-designer jewelry and crafted objects marked down an incredible 35%-75% off.

A Phenomenon Not To Be Missed

• TWIST devotees in other states plan their holidays around the sale, booking tickets months in advance and flying in from places as remote as St. Louis, Los Angeles and Honolulu.
• TWIST owner, Paul Schneider recalls one year counting 76 people waiting in line to pay.