Musty Dusty Love

So much to do this weekend and not enough of me to go around.

It’s the last weekend of ice skating at CitiPond in Bryant Park, the City Bakery’s Hot Chocolate Festival ends Monday (with flavors like Tropical Hot Chocolate, Happy Hot Chocolate, and Surprise Finale Hot Chocolate), and the Museum of the Moving Image is screening 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea.

All things that pique my curiousity, but what’s number one on my to-do list? The Greenwich Village Antiquarian Book Fair.


Running through Sunday at P.S. 3 John Melser Charrette School, this is the 32nd annual edition of the event, which draws old timey book sellers from around the country to Manhattan.  All proceeds from the fair support P.S. 3 and the Greenwich Village community.

Here are some of the highlights for sale at the Antiquarian Book Fair.

  • Oliver Twist – First Edition (1846) bound in Scarlet Morocco Leather
  • The Catcher in the Rye – UK First Edition (1951) bound in Blue Morocco Leather
  • James and the Giant Peach – First Edition (1961)
  • The Works of Edgar Allan Poe – First Edition (1894) with Art Nouveau Poppies in Gilt on Covers and Spine Strips
If you like roaming through old book stores and libraries, or just like the smell of really old books head to P.S. 3. 

The Greenwich Village Antiquarian Book Fair
February 25 – 27, 2011
P.S. 3 John Melser Charrette School
490 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014

Hours: Saturday, February 26th 12-6PM
       Sunday, February 27th 12-5PM
Admission $7/$5

Crumbs Cupcake of the Week – Gone Bananas

Ever crave bananas but hate that to have that filling feeling after eating one? Gone Bananas is a cupcake that will still make you feel full but also give sweet delicious taste in your mouth.

A marble cupcake filled with chocolate fudge, topped with banana cream cheese frosting, and rimmed with chocolate chips. And the best part? Instead of a cherry on top you have banana chips.

So go bananas with this week’s Crumbs’ Cupcake of the Week, and check out more sweet deals on Twitter.

(Note: Beware of cute babies dressed as monkeys. Don’t let their evil plan to steal your cupcake fool you.)

Locations:
(Brooklyn Heights)
109 Montague Street
Brooklyn Heights, NY 11201
T 718-935-9600

(Garment Center)
1385 Broadway
New York, NY 10018
T 212-764-7100

(Grand Central)
420 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10170
T 212-297-0500

(Broadway)
1675 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
T 212-399-3100

(Bryant Park)
43 West 42nd St
New York, NY 10036
T 212 221 1500

(Lexington Avenue)
1418 Lexington Ave
New York, NY 10128
T 212 360 7200

(Madison Avenue)
501 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10022
T 212 750 0515

(The Village)
37 East 8th St
New York, NY 10003
T 212 673 1500

(Third Ave)
880 Third Ave
New York, NY 10022
T 212-355-6500

(Union Square)
124 University Place
New York, NY 10003
T 212 206 8011

(Upper East Side)
1379 Third Ave
New York, NY 10075
T 212 794 9800

(Upper West Side)
350 Amsterdam Ave
New York, NY 10024

(Wall Street)
87 Beaver St
New York, NY 10005
T 212 480 7500

(East Hampton, Long Island)
35 Newtown Ln
East Hampton, NY 11937
T 631 329 4883

(Huntington, Long Island)
11 Wall St
Huntington, NY 11743
T 631 421 4500

(Woodbury, Long Island)
8285 Jericho Turnpike
Woodbury, NY 11797
T 516-224-4542
T 212 712 9800

I feel like I should eat this cupcake like a Tootsie Pop. What do you think?

Literature for that Fashion Confidence Boost

Sometimes wearing Lolita is not enough to get you to take that step out that door to the outside world. Wearing clothes that are beyond your plain t-shirt and jeans combo is weird to other people. And wearing Lolita makes you appear like you’re from another planet.

Even before you look into that mirror to see if your headbow is straight or if your pettioat has enough poof, I recommend these three books to build confidence:

Fierce Style – This book surprised me as it was not only a fashion memoir/biography of the youngest Project Runway winner, Christian Siriano, but held down-to-earth, real advice (yes, really) on what to wear and how to wear clothes that flatter woman of all shapes and sizes. And you can find it at H&M, along Fifth Avenue, and of course, by Christian Siriano.

Eccentric Glamour – Ever walk by Barney’s and see those window displays and wonder who is crazy enough to come up with them? Simon Doonan was the creative director behind those insane displays that bordered between fashion and modern art. In his latest book, his witty personality and bold confidence will surely convince anyone wanting to try their hand at Lolita fashion and just go for it.

Hungry: A Young Model’s Story of Appetite, Ambition and the Ultimate Embrace of Curves – Crystal Renn is a model. And like all models she had to live up to the image of thin is beautiful. As a result she suffered from anorexia nervosa. Then she decided to just be herself and is now a size 12, happy, and still a sought after model. Hungry is her journey hungry to happy to be who she really is.

All of these books can be found in your local bookstore.

The Mystery (Bag) of Anna Sui Revealed! Plus In-Store Event 2/17

I cannot tell you how much I adore Anna Sui. With her hippie florals, sophisticated but poppy prints, and gothic twist on everything she has become one of my favorite designers. And her entire makeup line is bold and subtle with just a hint of roses (including the nail polish!).

So what better way to spend some leftover Christmas/New Year’s gift cards than invest it in a Anna Sui New Year’s “Mystery Bag.” Like any lucky pack it had a selection of makeup products but you’re unsure what will be inside.


In my case I received:

  • 2 eyeliner kohl pencils (red orange and green)
  • liquid eyeliner (chick yellow)
  • liquid eyecolor/eyeshadow (shimmery slate gray)
  • 2 nail colors (red and sea green)
  • makeup pouch and brush set 
For a total of $200 worth of products at a just $95, it was a quite steal! And I intend to use most of it.

The pencils not so much as I’m very plain Jane with eyeliner, using mostly neutral shades or classic black. However the yellow eyeliner I’ve discovered is more of a tint so it would be good for highlighting a dark eyeshadow. The light grey eye shadow could be used anytime, casual or for a night out (good for a smoky eyes).

As for nail polish do you really need a reason for having more nail polish? Mix, match or just paint your toes.

Finally, it was very nice bonus to find a makeup pouch that came with three brushes: one for blush, one for shadow, and one for lips. (Note: the pouch has a secret bottom pocket for brushes only. What could get better than this?

But wait, there’s more.
Anna Sui will be having an in-store party to unveal a new lip gloss color on Thursday, February 17th from 6-8PM. Whether it is because of New York Fashion Week or just simply perfect timing, it’s a good excuse to get some more makeup and have a chance to meet Anna Sui herself!

Not to mention dress up.  And grab another mystery bag. I hope to see you there.

Anna Sui
26 Greene Street
New York, NY 10012
(212) 941-8406

Valentine’s Day – Eat, Indulge, Distract, Repeat

Valentine Day’s should be celebrated for the sake of being able to wear red, eat lots of sweets, and watch lots of sappy movies. While you could do this any day, February 14th is a good excuse as any, especially if you’re planning to sulk and be like every other “woe is me.”

Whether you are enjoying it as a couple, single, or with friends, you should just plain enjoy Valentine’s Day. It’s a holiday, after all.

So plan a rocking outfit, grab some friends (or drag the significant other), and go out on the town. Or find some comfort in front of the couch with some cheezy movies. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Out on the Town
– Going to Dances of Vice never fails in entertainment. Monday is Amor y Tango at the Highline Ballroom.
– The Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History presents “Romance Under the Stars” a classy night with champagne, hor d’oeurves, chocolate covered strawberries, and music followed by a planetarium show of the night sky.
– Have dinner at a restaurant you’ve never been to. Restaurant Week is still happening so it’s a good opportunity to spend a little more than your normal price range.
– You be the judge for this year’s Oscar-nominated animated films. Playing at the IFC Center.
– Go straight for dessert at Holey Cream. (And walk to the station to make the guilt go away for a little bit.)

Comfort is Key
– Buy food from your favorite takeout place and eat to your hearts content. Perhaps get a fancy dessert from Financier on your way home to end the night.
– Or finally bake those sugar cookies you been meaning to. Once that sweet smell of sugar is in the air you’ll forget its the 14th.
– Wear the comfiest outfit you can find. (Snuggies count!)
– Drink out of champagne or wine glasses. (Doesn’t have to be alcohol.)
– Grab your laptop and do some retail therapy. Feeling better means buying something to make your heart flutter.
– Video Skype with your best friend and watch a movie together.

Don’t be Ashamed
– Eat cookie dough out of the package. (It’s okay it’s Valentines Day meaning its a day to indulge in sweets)
– Watch really bad romance movies.  Nothing beats a day that celebrates love with a good laugh and unrealistic plotlines. (I recommend Leap Year or if horror movies are more you’re thing, House of Wax. Valentine’s Day is never complete without watching Paris Hilton get an axe to the head.)
– If you want to spend it alone, that doesn’t mean you have to be literally alone.  Gather all your stuffed animal friends and have them join you on the couch for some reality TV.

Distract Yourself
– It’s a good day as any to clean. Start Spring Cleaning early.
– Organize your Lolita closet again. It’s good to re-organize your wardrobe every now and then because it means finding something you haven’t worn or a skirt or hat you just have no use for now.
– Start that sewing project you’ve been meaning to get to.
– Pick a book out of your local library (or buy one) that peaks your interest (i.e. The Bro Code by Barney Stintson anyone?).

Whatever you do, do something fun. Even if that means just wearing an awesome Lolita outfit or counting down to the Valentine’s Day candy clearance sale at your local Rite Aid. What are your plans? I’d love to hear them!

Calling all Theatre Geeks – The Wii Plays ends Feb 12!


For those who play video games, you know the story lines and interactive is an equivalent to actual theatre (for the most part).

Ars Nova takes it to the next level and presents “The Wii Plays” – a series of 8 minute plays that take Mario, Sonic, Bob the Builder, Barbie, and, of course, the Wii to the stage. 

I had wish I had known about this sooner, but if you get the chance head onto Ars Nova before Saturday, February 12th.  It’s a good compromise for that nerd-minded significant other when you can’t agree being treated to opera for Valentine’s Day. 

Here are two reviews by NY Times ArtsBeat and Switched.

February 1 – 12, 2011
Ars Nova
511 West 54th St
New York, NY 10019
Tickets: $15

NYC Restaurant Week Extended until 27th!

No more Sky High Pie for me.

Calling all Foodies. New York City cannot get enough of Restaurant Week and has been extended to the 27th.

NYC Restaurant Week is a time when anyone who wish they could afford the appetizer and a high end restaurant on a regular day, can now do so.

Selected restaurants offer prix fixe lunch and dinner specials at more affordable prices ($25 and $35 respectively). It offers restaurants the chance for new customers (and future food connoisseurs) to get a taste of what they offer, and it gives the everyday New Yorker a chance to really dine fine.

I sincerely recommend making reservations. While the prices are lower that doesn’t mean it is easier to get a table for four at Coliccho and Sons. Opentable is a restaurant directory that enables you to make reservations online. (Note: Be sure to have a good internet connection.)

NYC Restaurant Week
January 30th – February 27th, 2011

Crumbs Cupcake of the Week – Cherry Cobbler

I had imagined Cherry Cobbler to look more like Crumbs’ Apple Cobbler, but it’s still looks delicious.

If you’re not a fan of Red Velvet, I would definitely opt for this week’s Cupcake of the Week. Cherries are not only lighter in sweetness, they’re also just plain sweet.

Beneath all the streusel crumbs is vanilla cream cheese frosting, and beneath that is a cupcake filled with cherry preserve.

Check out Crumbs’ Twitter feed for more news and sweet deals.

Locations:
(Brooklyn Heights)
109 Montague Street
Brooklyn Heights, NY 11201
T 718-935-9600
(Garment Center)
1385 Broadway
New York, NY 10018
T 212-764-7100
(Grand Central)
420 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10170
T 212-297-0500
(Broadway)
1675 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
T 212-399-3100
(Bryant Park)
43 West 42nd St
New York, NY 10036
T 212 221 1500
(Lexington Avenue)
1418 Lexington Ave
New York, NY 10128
T 212 360 7200
(Madison Avenue)
501 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10022
T 212 750 0515
(The Village)
37 East 8th St
New York, NY 10003
T 212 673 1500
(Third Ave)
880 Third Ave
New York, NY 10022
T 212-355-6500
(Union Square)
124 University Place
New York, NY 10003
T 212 206 8011
(Upper East Side)
1379 Third Ave
New York, NY 10075
T 212 794 9800
(Upper West Side)
350 Amsterdam Ave
New York, NY 10024
(Wall Street)
87 Beaver St
New York, NY 10005
T 212 480 7500
(East Hampton, Long Island)
35 Newtown Ln
East Hampton, NY 11937
T 631 329 4883
(Huntington, Long Island)
11 Wall St
Huntington, NY 11743
T 631 421 4500
(Woodbury, Long Island)
8285 Jericho Turnpike
Woodbury, NY 11797
T 516-224-4542
T 212 712 9800

I feel like I should eat this cupcake like a Tootsie Pop. What do you think?

In the News: NYCC/NYAF tickets on Sale and Baby the Stars Shine Bright & Alice and the Pirates comes to Tokyo Rebel

NYAF 2008 BtSSB & AatP Fashion Show

New York Comic Con Tickets Go Live Today

While New York Comic Con/New York Anime Festival is months away, you can order professional and fan tickets starting today.

Tokyo Rebel Carries Baby the Stars Shine Bright and Alice and the Pirates

This is big news in the Lolita world. East Coast Lolitas won’t have to venture all the way to San Francisco for brand as Tokyo Rebel has announced today they will soon be carrying Baby the Stars Shine Bright and Alice and the Pirates.

It is great news after their previous announcement about no longer be stocking Angelic Pretty items. However, there’s still some AP items left in the store, so stop by before it’s all gone. (Note: Since they won’t be restocking, the items are all on sale!)

New York Comic Con/New York Anime Festival
October 13 – 16, 2011

Tokyo Rebel
170 Avenue B
New York, NY 10009

Crumbs Cupcake of the Month – Red Velvet

Red Velvet is not only delicious but a classic flavor.

Perfect for Valentine’s Day. Much better than a box of chocolates (well, almost.)

Crumbs’ Cupcake of the Month for February is Red Velvet. Need I say more?


Locations:

(Brooklyn Heights)
109 Montague Street
Brooklyn Heights, NY 11201
T 718-935-9600
(Garment Center)
1385 Broadway
New York, NY 10018
T 212-764-7100
(Grand Central)
420 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10170
T 212-297-0500
(Broadway)
1675 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
T 212-399-3100
(Bryant Park)
43 West 42nd St
New York, NY 10036
T 212 221 1500
(Lexington Avenue)
1418 Lexington Ave
New York, NY 10128
T 212 360 7200
(Madison Avenue)
501 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10022
T 212 750 0515
(The Village)
37 East 8th St
New York, NY 10003
T 212 673 1500
(Third Ave)
880 Third Ave
New York, NY 10022
T 212-355-6500
(Union Square)
124 University Place
New York, NY 10003
T 212 206 8011
(Upper East Side)
1379 Third Ave
New York, NY 10075
T 212 794 9800
(Upper West Side)
350 Amsterdam Ave
New York, NY 10024
(Wall Street)
87 Beaver St
New York, NY 10005
T 212 480 7500
(East Hampton, Long Island)
35 Newtown Ln
East Hampton, NY 11937
T 631 329 4883
(Huntington, Long Island)
11 Wall St
Huntington, NY 11743
T 631 421 4500
(Woodbury, Long Island)
8285 Jericho Turnpike
Woodbury, NY 11797
T 516-224-4542
T 212 712 9800