My sister and I are definitely on the same page when it comes to pedi care! For those that believe that the winter is the time to take a break from regular pedi care. If you're in that group, then I suggest that you should do a bit of at home prep before going back to your regular pedi appointments. The winter here in the city means thick socks, stockings, boots etc and by doing a pre-pedi at home, you can at least begin to get your feet ready before going for your next appointment. Roll over the above images to see what items are in my pedi closet! From Conair, Tweezerman, Avon and Deborah Lippmann - you'll see my tried and true musts! In addition, meet a new find that I'm obsessed with that's based in Brooklyn - Soho Feet which focuses on foot care only! I'm loving how their treatments have culinary inspirations and truly make your feet feel amazing when you're soaking, exfoliating and moisturizing!
Snazzy Sundays ~ Congrats to Mallory Hagan Miss America
I love that last night in Las Vegas, Miss New York - Mallory Hagan (a Brooklyn native) became Miss America 2013! She was definitely in my top 5! Last night's pageant brought a number of talents (tap dancing which I did growing up, piano playing, singing and more), fabulous bikinis by Catalina Swim, flawless makeup courtesy of Artistry Makeup and of course there's always the stunning gowns! The last Miss New York to win was none other than Vanessa Williams in 1984.
Fashionable Fridays ~ Levi's Fall 2011 Preview Press Event
When it comes to classic American denim, you can't begin the list without Levi and since they are always about innovation, how could I not head out to a night full of events starting off with this event? At an uber chic gallery space in Soho, we were introduced to a number of mens and womens denim vignettes that played out around us the entire night. The highlight of the night was getting my Fair and Honest Appraisal of My Appearance by Jill of The Bumbys! They are a Brooklyn based performance art duo that can be found at Fashion Week and a number of events around town. Armed with their typewriters (retro chic), they believe that everyone wants to be judged and there was quite a line for Gil and Jill who are always covered HTT (Heat to Toe)! In the gallery are some fab snapshots from the event!
Snazzy Sundays ~ Lessons From Breakfast at Tiffany's
What a weekend! Sometimes my weekends mean that I have to get some work in and to run some errands which this happened to be one of them. But beyond getting things done, I was able to have some my bestie, sister and her bf come over, headed out to a fun party (kudos to DJ Eloy, my sister's bf who rocked the Shore Club last night), wake up late and then headed into Brooklyn to grab some dim sum with them! You never know where the weekend will take you and with so many people staying over, going out on trips (Kitten Lounge is going to the Hamptons Fourth of July Weekend and then Miami) and more - it's also fun to have some down time!
I'm inspired by Breakfast at Tiffany's for a number of reasons but ask me my favorite scene and it's the one pictured above! Holly Golightly is a party girl and always knows to have a good time but when it comes to shutting the world out and getting Z's - well she still looks fab. I'm a big believer in people looking just as good for bed as they do in the day! So today's spread encourages you to find cute items to sleep in so that when you and your friends wake the next morning to go over the night's activities, you don't find yourself asking yourself what to put on! If you need to shut out the sound as you're hitting the sack at the same time that others would be getting up, these ear plugs are perfect! Also when it's all about pampering yourself after the hectic nature of the weekend, then I suggest you Lush so your tootsies look fab and to also rejuvenate yourself so that you can do it all over again!
Snazzy Sundays ~ Baby Shower Weekends
This time of year, I find that it's all about bridal but for the first time ever, I'm heading to a Baby Shower. I love the fact that the mom has a focus in being organic and I enjoyed being able to focus on a number of fab products that I didn't even know existed! List what items are an essential to a baby shower and you could win goodies from Small Plum (winner to be announced next week), makers of organic items that are perfect for baby as they are 100% Bamboo! When I went out shopping, I not only wanted items that the baby could wear but that the baby and mom could enjoy. Take a peep at the organic monkey from Miyim (Brooklyn based company), Belli Skincare which makes products for mom prior to her pregnancy and afterwords as well as for baby and of course the amazing products from Small Plum!
Snazzy Sundays ~ Go Green Expo Gems
This weekend has been absolutely gorgeous and there were two tradeshows the Architectural Design Show and the Go Green Expo. Next week, I'll focus on brands that were at the ADS show; however, at the GGE - there were three companies that I was excited to meet. I'm such a fan of music and Merkury Innovation's Eco Nation has created a cute green way that your speakers can be environmentally sound while also being able to put your own creative mark on it. This is such a cute gift for someone that wants to have a little set when they are out on their balcony, students heading into college, etc.
From the fashion side, I met with two different brands that I look forward to including within Kitten Lounge. Angel Rox is an answer to fashion with her Jersey Wrap that can be worn in at least 20 different ways! This is amazing to create a number of dresses, tops, shrugs and more in such an effortless way. You guys know that I'm all about making sure that your individuality comes out in whatever you wear and this is definitely a step in the right direction. Brooklyn based, Roxi Sugar knows about creating a collection with organic cotton that is comfortable, sexy and just fits in every lifestyle. Check out her site to see where her pieces have been worn and you'll also see it within future posts.
Finally, there was my prime reason for attending the show, to learn more about Boho Magazine. Although the magazine has been around for over a year and a half, I had heard about the magazine on a few sites and also from a few people. I have to say, being someone that is a huge fan of Anthropologie since they have a great mix of fashion and items from the home, I found that this eco magazine has the same sensibilities and synergies. Fortunately, when I stopped by, I was able to chat for awhile with the Founder and Editor in Chief, Gina La Morte. Boho Magazine has that great chic design with pieces that definitely tell a story from fashion, beauty, style, food, travel, etc (I always love magazines that cover these areas as that is definitely something that resonates with Kitten Lounge and myself!). Printed on recycled paper and focused on eco consciousness, this magazine definitely focuses on your lifestyle in general while also including a focus on the people who live it as well. I've definitely enjoyed the magazine and the Boho Magazine Blog is an extra insight into the brand and also Gina as well. Printed four times a year, this is definitely a magazine that I will continue to look for at Universal News or Whole Foods!
Sippin Saturdays ~ Brooklyn Parties
Today is all about Brooklyn! I have a fab party at one of my besties houses and then I am heading with other besties to go to a party that I hear is going to be a lot of fun! Either way, today is all about keeping it simple and rocking it out with accessories! Although I won't be wearing this exact look today, I will be in a tunic, leggings, fab jewelry and a pair of thigh highs - you know keeping it casual! This weekend has been amazing as I finalize my transition, enjoy my fab friends of course - get ready to have a rocking March - hugs and kisses everyone!
Snazzy Sundays ~ Moroccan Love
I can't even tell you when it started but I have been obsessed with various items that are Moroccan from the food to the decor. Although we're in limbo on whether we'll stay in our condo by the beach or move to Brooklyn, I have finally decided that I want to decorate within this theme! I love how ornate and cozy this general style is. Then again it could also be reinforced as we had an amazing dinner last night of lamb with a lentil salad that I will be making again and again! Regardless, these are some o fmy favorite key pieces that add a little touch here and there within your home! With Valentine's Day coming, wouldn't it be awesome to start in your bedroom and freshen things up, move into your bathroom and then your kitchen? By updating (even in a small way), you're doing a little pre-Spring cleaning that should be done whether you're satisfyingly single or you have a person of interest!
Mingling Mondays ~ Vinegar Hill House
Picture courtesy of NY Eater
Earlier this summer, Paul and I headed out to Vinegar Hill House in Brooklyn. They had been featured within New York Magazine for their Cast Iron Chicken and we knew it would be tasty as the ex chef from Freeman's, Jean Adamson was one of the co=owner's of the restaurant. It was an amazing night where we were able to sit outside in the garden area (although someone was renovating their home and we could hear their saws at 10pm) and enjoy a great meal. We knew that we would want to come back and taste what they would do for the fall. So last Fri, after dropping in on a Burlesque Festival, we came to a crowded Vinegar Hill House. Fortunately, we were able to get a seat at the bar while we waited. The vibe is very rustic and I love all the wood that's around. As packed as it is, it definitely feels very intimate. I love their basic approach to the overall decor. Although they have a limited amount of alcohol at their bar, they have specialty drinks that are always very satisfying.
As opposed to my last visit where I had a sea bass I believe, I ended up having their famous cast iron chicken! It's important to note that they have 3 appetizers, 5 entrees, 3 sides and a choice of two desserts. The chicken is the only entree that doesn't include a side that comes with your meal. Of course I looked at the available sides and somehow the squash puree, long beans and bitter greens were not something that I wanted. Although the waiter said that I couldn't choose a side that came with the entree (apparently they buy enough sides for each entree), Paul asked someone else and fortunately my fingerling potatoes came with my meal. If you're looking for a nice vibe and a place for a date or group of friends, this is the place. Their coal burning stove kicks out amazing dishes that make you feel at home - the chicken was perfection. For dessert, we had the Guinness Cake which I LOVED when I came the first time and enjoyed having again! If you're in the area, take some time to have a meal here and bring your friends along! If you're brave, try the Apple Cider and let me know what you think of it (4% alcohol but tastes like a mix of apple vinegar with olive juice - it's an interesting taste). I wonder if this could be a future brunch spot or a fun place to have a holiday dinner as long as you're cool with the wait.
72 Hudson Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718.522.1018
Treasure Tuesdays ~ Startup Lucky & Tasty Morsels Bakery
You know that beyond talking fashion, I love keeping you updated on what's going on with my friends who are in the industry! Tasty Morsels Bakery has had a lot of success this past year and the year isn't even over! I feel so fortunate that in many ways, when founder and cookie baker extraordinaire, Crystal Horton and I had a chance to sit down and really learn about one another that I was able to learn about her business from the beginning. Since then, I've seen the cookies appear in the goodie bag for the Brooklyn Cancer Society's Pink and Black Tie Gala hosted by Stacy London, she was apart of Bust's Craftacular in Brooklyn and she was one of the personalities that appeared on the episode of the web based reality show, To Be a Star where she served as one of my friends in the industry who sat with some of the aspiring models in the show due to them winning this time with us.
Of course it was this same day that we bumped into @Aronado after we had finished shooting and somehow the three of us came up with the idea that he should interview her on his show StartUp Lucky which talks with those starting up their own businesses. Crystal is not only someone who has combined her love of fashion and baking but she's also done something that I'm super proud of. She has embraced Social Media and although she is learning the ropes and treading carefully, I love the fact that she is integrating this into her plans! You all know that I'm a huge advocate and I love that you'll see her out there sending tweets via @Tasty_Morsels Bakery. Watch this interview where @Aronado does what he does best - chatting it up and of course, I'm also throwing in my two cents as I play co-host! It was such a good time and if you have yet to enjoy her cookies, your holiday isn't complete without having them and since we have just signed off from summer - we're definitely in fall/holiday mode which is perfect for gifting! Of course you can always check out my friends and more by following me @Cocoabebe.
Mingling Mondays ~ Making Strides in Brooklyn
As many of you know, the fight against cancer is a huge concern for me! With my personal issues of breast cancer being in high school (and thankfully not having it) to my boyfriend's father passing away from Pancreatic Cancer! Cancer is something that everyone has a connection with it somehow and regardless of what I'm working on or where I am, I always have time to support the cause! This past May, I participated in the Pink & Black Tie Gala which took place at Steiner Studios in Brooklyn! As much as it was an honor to cover this inaugural event on Kitten Lounge and to include a piece from my line, Kitten Couture - I'm excited about this year!
Making Strides is a walk that takes place in October and for those that would love to learn more about this event, you can come with me and many others to attend the Making Strides breakfast on August 14th where you can learn more about this event and many others while sharing in the support of others! If you have questions, visit the Making Strides site to create a team or to add on to someone else's team!
Sippin Saturdays: Happy Fouth of July!
Happy Fourth of July! If you're in NYC or will be watching the fireworks, you're aware that they will not be in the same location (usually it's at Liberty State Park). This year is not only America's birthday but it is also the celebration of the 400th year that Henry Hudson discovered NY! So the fireworks will be on the Hudson River this year! In essence, it's the city's birthday which is actually very cool. If you plan on coming to the city or finding the best place to watch for fireworks, then you'll want to go on Macy's site to not only figure out where you should be but also to find out some interesting facts about this fireworks and also city facts! Click the link within the spread to go to Macy's site that covers this amazing display. I'll be at Alma in Red Hook, Brooklyn with friends and hanging out at the rooftop! If you don't plan on being on the street, try calling around to see some great places that are available and have rood access!
Fashionable Fridays: Red, White & You
I love the Fourth of July and the fact that it's tomorrow, my boyfriend and I have decided that today will be a shopping day! I love when he decides to shop as that means we will have to make some stops at a few places to have a drink every now and then. Now when it comes to themes, I know people will want to find ways to wear red, white and blue without making it look like it comes off as a costume. So for all of those who will be at rooftop parties or anything of that nature, I though a simple white dress would be a nice look. Then, build your love of red and blue with your accessories. You have to decide are you a blue or a red person? I decided that I love blue so I would rather my purse have this color and allow my jewelry to bring in the red. I also love sapphires as this is my birthstone and didn't want the blue clutch to seem like an after thought so I brought in the necklace. You could do the same thing if you're a red person and just switch up the colors. Either way, this is a great Americana palette while also being perfect to wear with other item! Take some time to think about how you will show your pride tomorrow night! I'll be in Brooklyn tomorrow at an amazing roofdeck!
Fashionable Fridays: Style In Real Life
A week or so ago, I found myself at the Hayden Harnett store in Greenpoint Brooklyn! I was asked to put an outfit together so I wanted to make sure to find the perfect outfit and of course to accessorize it. This opportunity is known as Hayden Harnett's Style IRL (In Real Life). It's open to anyone that's willing and then each of the items that are included, receive a discount for a period of time. Check out my look and Stephanie's as well! Then, think about what you want to wear as you might find that it's on sale (if it's from our photoshoot the sale is now through June 11th!
Trendy Thursdays: Smells Like Bond No 9
Snazzy Sundays: Tasty Morsels Bakery x Bust Craftacular
By the time you're reading this I'm probably on the subway heading to Brooklyn to help set up for one of many Tasty Morsels Bakery's events! We'll be at the Bust Magazine's Spring Fling Craftacular at The Warsaw in Williamsburg, NY. First of all, I'll be Twittering (@cocoabebe) all day from this event and also taking some footage which will find it's way to On the Radar later on in the evening! Come out to not only support all the hardworking indie vendors but my friend and founder of Tasty Morsels Bakery - Crystal Horton (@Tasty_Morsels). We will be sampling cookies and of course you can buy some to bring home to your friends as well!
I have attended and assisted many shopping events but this is definitely one that makes me really happy to be apart of it - so definitely don't be shy in saying hello. I'll give you info about this event of course and you'll have tons of pics to enjoy. I can't wait to see you there and look forward to saying howdy and with it only being a $2 admission, it's a fab way to spend the day! We'll be there from 12 - 7 and look forward to seeing you there.
Paul's Honest Meal: Simply Said…
What is the nature of the farmer’s market, the organic and the all-natural? I believe that it’s simplicity. If I may venture down the cliché alley, in my opinion it’s the simple things that make our lives worth living. The undemanding and the effortless welcome us in an array of circumstances and unanticipated probabilities; an unexpected smile, the laughter of a loved one or may be just a lazy Sunday walk at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden.
Personally, the memories of my favorite meals are not set in bold Soho establishments, but are a part of treasured slide show filled with family dinners, friend’s apartments and my great aunt’s loving touch. Back in the day when organic was the norm, the farmers market was just a market and dinner conversation was not just a clever dialogue on ones favorite sitcom, meals were born and past down to our generation. I believe that we need simple recipes for simple markets with simple produce. The simple is the organic and the true. Today, I am going to introduce a simple recipe with ingredients that can be found at any market and prepared by any one.
Sauce
2 medium onions
1 green pepper
1 head of garlic
1/3 bunch of celery
2 yellow squash
2 zucchini squash
7 small tomatoes
Molasses
26.5oz Pomi strained tomatoes
Preheat a large pot with a little olive oil. Chop the onions, celery, eggplant, peeled green pepper, garlic, yellow squash and zucchini squash. Brown the vegetables over high heat. Add fresh tomatoes and continue to sauté. When the vegetables are ready and you’ll know when they are add 26.5oz carton of Pomi strained tomatoes and just as much water. Bring to a boil, add three tablespoons of molasses and reduce to simmer. Season with salt, pepper and red pepper flakes to taste. Continue to cook the sauce until it thickens to the desired consistency and add more water if necessary. If you are a vegetarian then your pasta sauce is ready and if you are an omnivore like myself add meatballs 10 minutes before the sauce is finished.
Meatballs
3 lbs ground pork
1½ lbs ground beef
1½ lbs ground lamb
1 cup parmesan cheese
1 cup Italian style breadcrumbs
1 extra large egg
1 onion
3 garlic cloves
½ cup of water
½ cup of chopped cilantro and parsley
Mix everything in a large bowl and season with salt and pepper to taste. Shape the meatballs to your desired shape and size and place into an oiled aluminum pan. Preheat the over to 500º F and brown the meatballs. Add the meatballs to your sauce 10 minutes prior to completion.
Cooking does not have to be complicated and ingredients do not have to be expansive in order to prepare a delicious meal. All you need is the knowledge of a couple simple cooking techniques and the courage to use any ingredients that you think will work for you. And trust me, a couple of good friends and plenty of wine alongside your newly found love for the homemade is that one perfect and necessary garnish for any meal.
Snazzy Sundays: Set The Table
Last night Paul and I hung out in Williamsburg and saw the cutest shops. One of the restaurants that we had dinner in was in a large beautiful brick building (it is our dream one day to have a building like this). With Sundays post on my mind, I knew that I had to find a perfect piece. As I woke up this morning hearing the crazy rain that came out of nowhere, I realized that I would spend the morning lounging and visiting Pottery Barn.com. I think that tables are so important in the home! It's perfect for storage, filling the space in the home and so much more. Just like we have styles in our dress, there are various tables that also show a little bit about who we are and this site and store is always the best place to go! Have some fun looking at these tables and to also think about anything new you want to add whether you're moving, prepping for the holidays and more.
Paul's Honest Meal: Brook - My Secret Lover
So, it’s Saturday morning, you wake up in your moderately priced Brooklyn Heights apartment, your dog is pacing next to your bed, your girlfriend is at the breakfast bar working on her obnoxiously thin laptop and the only thing on your mind is Brook – your secret lover. You welcome the sunshine, as you slowly pull the blankets away from your face and a breath of crisp fresh air brings in a brand new day and a brand new hunger. You throw on your jeans, you grab your flip flops and you are off to walking your dog along the promenade. As the other pet enthusiasts are captivated with their canine friends, you begin to formulate a plan; a plan to catch a glimpse of your secret lover.
Your unsuspecting girlfriend is excited to spend this perfect day with a blanket, a cooler and a couple of ipods at what appears to be the perfect destination –
Long story short, do your self a favor and forget about every sushi place that you have been to anywhere within the five boroughs, buy a LIRR ticket, spend a day at the beach and finish it off with a delicious meal at the Nagahama sushi restaurant on
On a side note, let go of your inhibitions and try the unfiltered sake. You will be thankful for the milky unassuming beverage and indulged with the finishing touch of a thinly sliced cucumber in your glass.
Sippin' Saturdays ~ It's All About Alchemy
The other day my boyfriend and I headed out to Park Slope to visit condos. I have to say that the condo search for him has lead me to a variety of new areas and for this girl who hasn't been in Brooklyn very often, it's nice to have a new area to see with fresh eyes. I have to say that we stopped into the bar Alchemy and it was so cozy and they had an amazing Strawberry Mojito that was really interesting and until then, I had never tried Mussels - loved them. It was such a cozy vibe and everyone was so nice and I love that it had the perfect dark atmosphere which leads to amazing conversation. So, since today is all about beverages, if you're in the area you should definitely pop in - I would also suggest the calamari and they have an interesting Chickpea snack which was addicting.
ALCHEMY
56 5th Ave
Park Slope, Brooklyn
For media requests and bookings for Kimmie, email MTatum@BeautifulPlanning.com
Photography by Philip Friedman/Studio D
Meet Kimmie
Accessories Expert, Founder & Editor in Chief of Kitten Lounge; Co-Founder & Creative Director of Shoe Week; Co-Founder of Style Tweetup, On Air Personality, Stylist and Designer.
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She's Kimmie is a virtual scrapbook and is the best way for fans of Kimmie to connect with her, see where she's heading next and of course to get fab insider info!
As an Accessories Expert, Kimmie appears on HSN, designs, is quoted/featured in various publications talking about style from an Accessories Forward perspective! To work with Kimmie or to see project portfolio, visit her site here.
Kimmie is the Co-Founder/Creative Director of Shoe Week which launched during NYFW Sept '12 and is styling a number of shows as well as having evening leading up to our second season of shows during NYFW Sept '13.
Co-Founder, Kimmie, connects brands with bloggers in intimate event settings via Style Tweetup.
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This work by Kimmie Smith is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
Based on a work at Kitten Lounge.Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at Info@TheKittenLounge.com.
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