Blog

Animal Humane Society

January 12, 2013 by IamMoody

As the leading animal welfare organization in the Upper Midwest, the Animal Humane Society is committed to engaging and serving local communities of people and animals and providing comprehensive programs and services to compassionately serve all of the stages of an animal’s life. At their campuses in Buffalo, Coon Rapids, Golden Valley, St. Paul and Woodbury, their mission is to engage the hearts, hands and minds of the community to help animals.

Animals are a wonderful part of our lives. They are the pets that greet us when we come home from work; they are the assistance that people need to make it through the day; they are the vital part of our worlds ecology.

The Animal Humane Society offers adoption services, so instead of looking at craigslist or asking friends, check with them first about adopting a new member into your family. They also offer education about animals, rescue animals in need and will take in animals that must be surrendered by their owners.

There is no reason why animals should be neglected, be good to them and they will be good to you. The Animal Humane Society offers so many services, go take a look at http://www.animalhumanesociety.org/ and see how they can help you get a new pet, or how you can get involved to make the lives of animals safer, better and more rewarding.

From Runway to Broadway

December 13, 2012 by IamMoody

This event was one that caught the two of us a little bit off guard with just a few hours notice, but we were just as excited to be in attendance nonetheless! Luckily, we are well-practiced professionals at getting ready in a time crunch, and knew exactly where to go to get fitted. We kicked it into high gear and hustled over to our favorite last-minute shopping destination Second Début and

came out with some amazing items. Once we arrived at the Lundstrum Center on the north side of Minneapolis, we learned that the event was called “Broadway Meets Runway”, their 5^thannual variety show fundraiser that not only benefits student scholarships and the many programs that the center provides, but also showcases the very special talent that the Lundstrum Center cultivates. This event is important for them because over 40% of students who attend are receiving various forms of financial assistance funded by donations from local donors. The recipients of these programs and scholarships are predominantly children who live locally, and there are even a few classes for adults.

Walking through the door, the Lundstrum Center is undeniably a warm, positive place. There was an excellent turnout for the event; tons of people got acquainted to each other over refreshments from the bar that was provided. After the social hour had ended, we moved into the adjoining room and found our seats just a few rows from the runway. The host of the night was award-winning journalist and founder/CEO of Rox Jewelry Robyne Robinson, who had also at one point attended the Lundstrum. After a few words, we watched a short video that highlighted some of the students’ and teachers’ personal stories of accomplishments and learning experiences they’ve shared together. After the video, Robyne closed the introduction, and the performances began!

The show was kick-started with a small chorus of children who came out to perform a delightful tune about the arriving snow, which blended into a small excerpt from Tchaikovsky’s ballet the Nutcracker, performed by a blend of Lundstrum students and Ordway professionals. After the performance, the predominantly-menswear boutique BlackBlue sent a few dapper looks down the runway, followed by a selection of leather and fur coats by Ribnick. The stage emptied and quickly returned to life with a fun skit. Actors in Grease-like 50’s garb sang and danced across the stage, and after they boogied down the runway, they were replaced by a 3-woman chorus. After another great performance, Primp Cheap-Chic Boutique sent down a small collection of evening attire that women of all ages could easily wear. June

Upscale Resale was up next with a great mix of pieces; leading the collection was an ultra-cozy and one-of-a-kind sweater dress, followed by an array of unique evening dresses and separates. There was one piece in particular that screamed out for our attention, an incredible, diva-liciouis cobalt blue bead and sequin jumpsuit;

this piece alone made us feel obligated to come check out the boutique to see what we can find for ourselves! After June had shown their selection, Ribnick Furs sent a few more unique shearling coats down the runway, which concluded the second fashion portion of the night. In

a few moments, the stage light up once again with a large womens’ chorus, with a short childrens’ skit after. When the performances were done, Lundstrum students and participants walked the runway. The final fashion portion of the show was kick-started with more contemporary eveningwear from Stephanie’s; From an emerald green mini dress to a half-sheer pleated maxiskirt, you’re sure to make an entrance with any piece from Stephanie’s Designer consignment boutique. Rodeo Drive tempted and teased the crowd with an interesting selection of separates. It was clear they chose only the most unique garments for the show, as told by the textured gold dress pants and bubblegum pink swing jacket. Ribnick gave us a

final glimpse of there leather and fur selection, and the stage cleared once again. After a few moments, several ladies dressed in glamorous Arafina, Emma Berg, and Brides of France evening gowns stood on the side of the stage, chatting among themselves. Slowly, more men and women entered the stage, and when a young man dressed in a sharp tuxedo entered the end of the runway, it was apparent that a wedding was about to begin. A young girl and boy walked down the “aisle” together as a ring bearer and flower girl, and Brides of France showed a portion of their bridal selection. After the last bridal looks walked off of the runway, everyone in the nights show did a final walk-through to finalize the fifth successful Broadway to Runway fundraiser performances.

After the crowd left the theater and entered the main room, we enjoyed a variety of tasty sweets and reviewed the highlights of the night. As we made our way through the people, we noticed there was a large table set up in the next room. As we got closer we saw it was Robyne Robinson displaying and selling her exotic pieces from her jewelry collection, Rox. We were blown away by all of the one-of-a-kind pieces and also by the materials that they were made of: silver from Bali, African brass,Tibet agate, and carved jade to name a few, many from her travels around the world. Her knowledge of natural materials and places was incredible, and is clearly shown through her work. We are so glad we chose to take a closer look!

We feel so blessed to have been invited to this event. Everyone involved in

making this happen has a true passion for what they do for the children and the community around them, which reflects on the Lundtsrum Center’s compassionate history. The original Lundstrum Studio began in the 20’s when Dorothy and her sisters Lorraine and Marion took over the Ascension School of Dance. Dorothy taught local students all the way into the late 90’s. In 1998, Dorothy passed away and left the Lundstrum to Kerry, Sue, Janie, Laurie, and Amy Casserly, daughters of friend and former student Lois Casserly. In 2000, the Lundstrum Center reopened, and specialized in training for Broadway Musical Theatre. In 2004, The Lundstrum expanded and moved into their current location at 1617 North

Second Street. The Casserly sisters take pride on maintaining Dorothy’s guiding principles: “Respect the dignity of the individual, true beauty is a reflection of God, it is uplifting and comes from within, nurture children in mind, body and spirit to release their artistic capacity, and our philosophy is: I can, I am, and I will” This sense of accomplishment was clearly displayed as excited looks on the kids’ faces after the show, telling us all that they were proud of their performance and of themselves. The Lundstrum Center is more than just a performing arts school; it is a symbol of hope and what is to come when you work just a little bit harder, and believe in yourself just a little bit more.

To learn more about the Lundstrum Center for the Performing Arts, visit there website here: http://lundstrumcenter.org/

To check out all of the participating stores and designers, visit there websites as listed below:

BlackBlue: http://www.blakblu.blogspot.com/

Ribnick Fur & Leather: http://www.ribnickfurs.com/

Primp Cheap-Chic Boutique: http://primpyourself.com/

June Upscale Resale: http://juneresale.com/

Stephanie’s: http://stephaniesshop.com/

Rodeo Drive Designer Consignment: http://rodeodriveconsign.com/

Arafina: http://www.arafina.com/

Emma Berg: http://www.emmaberg.com/

Brides of France: http://www.bridesoffrance.com/

Rox Minneapolis: http://blackbettyposters.com/

Authors and Editors

Gabby Navarro and Jordan Nentl

“La Femme, La Fashion”: The Show

November 27, 2012 by IamMoody

Before the Show: Gabby’s View from Other Side of the Curtain

I was so grateful to have been selected to be a part of La Bratique’s first runway show, “La Femme, La Fashion”. I arrived at the doors of Bella Salon at about 2:30pm for hair and makeup; I was immediately struck by a super funky, contemporary piece of artwork behind the receptionists’ desk. As my eyes wandered to the rest of the space, the vibe felt relaxed, professional, and distinctly warm. Being a little early, I was able to sit down and enjoy Bella’s comfortable waiting area for their guests, complete with a fireplace and refreshments. It was my pleasure to have my hair styled by Katie; anyone who has traveled far and wide for the right hairdresser can agree with me when I say there’s nothing like a hair stylist that makes small talk easy, fun, and enjoyable. I highly recommend seeing Katie to anyone who is interested in checking out this salon!

Between the lifting, tucking, and pinning of our hair and last-minute bra fittings, talented Susan Swanson turned me and the other ladies into runway-ready boudoir babes. Once the outfits had been finalized, our Miglio’s sandwiches eaten, and makeup complete, our looks were made whole with beautiful jewelry creations from Realia by Jen. At approximately 5pm, the stage (or a series of three platforms, in this case) had been set, and Richard Moody and fellow model Beatrice gave us a quick runway lesson in how to strut our stuff. Just to be sure I was ready, I went through a few practice runs by myself; even though I was feeling too stubborn to show it at the time, I was becoming really nervous! Time passed quickly, and soon we found ourselves listening to the soulful sounds of duo Wenso Ashby Contemporary Jazz with Soul. As 6pm drew nearer and nearer, all the ladies gathered in the back of the salon. I was probably the most nervous of the bunch, being the only one without previous modeling experience. I was lucky to get some words of encouragement from Kristina Mohlin, who had been a model for 22 years. Needless to say, she made me feel a lot more relaxed and ready for the show. Before I knew it, the chatter from the other side of the curtain subsided, and I heard Richards booming, cheerful voice begin. The show had begun, and it was almost my turn to go…

Part Two: The Fashion Show

“La Femme, La Fashion” was probably one of the most fun events we had the opportunity of covering! Gabby Navarro, my co-author, was one of five models who got to strut what their momma gave them on the runway! When I got to Bella Salon early to support Gabby, she was busy getting her outfits prepared for the show. While I was waiting for her, I got to chat with the other models while they were getting their hair and makeup done. They all seemed very at ease granted that they are about to take their clothes off in front of 75 people.

There were many family members and friends supporting everyone involved in the show. Since Gabby and I have been friends since we were 16, my mom came to support her and watch her walk. When my mom arrived she got lost, so I had to run outside and direct her. Finally, we got her to Bella and when we walked up to the doors we were greeted by an adorable man looking dapper in a tuxedo, who kindly opened the door for us. Music by Wenso Ashby enchanted the crowd upon entering. Mingling was at all-time peak tonight, with familiar faces all around. Red and white wine was served along with delicious hors d’oeuvres. The runway was set up in the middle of the salon and the on-lookers were able to sit and enjoy the show in the salon chairs.

After everyone got settled Richard started off the show by introducing Tracy, letting her talk about the store and the upcoming spring lingerie collections. When Tracy was done speaking, Richard introduced Jen of Realia by Jen, who designed all of the jewelry that was used in the show. After the participants had been introduced, the music started and the first model stepped out on the runway. Watching the entire group of models feel extremely confident in their La Bratique lingerie was really inspiring, I’m not sure if it was the bright spring colors that made them feel that way, but they worked it. It was easy to lose time watching beautiful ladies walking in fine European intimates, and soon the show had come to an end. After the show, attendees were invited to Beaujo’s Wine Bar for an after-party special. On the way out all of the guest received a “swag bag” including gifts and coupons.

One thing that is very special about this event is how La Bratique chose to use many different body shapes. Their styling displayed an array of sizes tastefully and beautifully, making the “real-women” bodies glow even brighter with the selection of luxurious fabrics and details. After seeing such an alluring collection of lingerie, it was hard to find our top three most desirable pieces of the night. Our first fave was a vanilla colored bra from Countrelle. The sheer, floral, scalloped lace made this bra especially unique; definitely a piece to wear for a special occasion of any kind. Our second favorite of the night was the Freya balconet. The elongated band and the playful polk-a-dot print make this a piece you don’t want to hide; instead this would be a great to use for layering as a true part of your outfit. Our final favorite was a young and fun Evolove bra and panty set in a light blue and purple bird print that spoke to the part in us that never really quite grew up; the print felt youthful, but not so youthful that a woman wouldn’t feel unsophisticated wearing it. If you want to see our favorites for yourself, make an appointment with Jackie or Tracy as all of these things are currently for sale!

La Femme, La Fashion” definitely kept up with our high expectations. We anticipated viewing a beautiful selection of European lingerie, beautiful people, light, happy music in the background, and tasty refreshments. Not only did they deliver the latter, but the genuine, friendly, and professional level of service blew us away. We’d like to thank Tracy and Jackie at La Bratique once again for their kindness and hospitality, and also a big thanks to Bella Salon, we had such a great experience and you ladies are so much fun to work with!

You can check out La Bratique’s website at: http://www.labratique.com.

If you want to learn more about Bella Salon and services they offer, you can find their website here: www.bellaedina.com

Local jewelry designer Realia by Jen, we highly suggest stopping by her page here: http://www.realiabyjen.com.

Wenso Ashby – Contemporary Jazz with Soul: http://www.wensoashby.com/home.html

Authors and Editors

Jordan Nentl & Gabby Navarro

La Bratique: “La Femme La Fashion”

November 8, 2012 by IamMoody

As the fall season draws nearer to winter and we all start to bundle up in our favorite sweaters and coats, us women are covering up some things that may have been forgotten since the steamy summertime. No, not our legs or arms…think just a little higher up, and don’t be afraid if your mind wanders into the gutter. Why? Because we’re talking about our bosoms, of course! Now that we are no longer soaking up the sun and baring it all in our barely-there bikinis, it’s easy to forget about our good friends residing just below our collarbones. Ladies, we are here to speak for the boobs! An important part of womens’ health and well-being, taking proper care of these guys is just as important as brushing your teeth before you go to bed or taking off your makeup so your pores don’t get clogged. You may think taking a quick trip to Victoria’s Secret for your favorite bra is the one-size-fits-all solution to finding a bra for the year ahead, but that may not always be the case. Seeing as a bra is not a one-size-fits-all product, many larger-busted women get frustrated when looking for something to fit and support their unique shape in the correct size for them, without sacrificing aesthetic value. We have found the solution to incorrect sizing and unattractive intimates in the form of a lingerie boutique right on 50^th &France called La Bratique.

We were first introduced to La Bratique through several interactions with employee Jackie Wallin, who excitedly urged us to check it out after chatting about our own personal “ugly intimates woes”. Every time we spoke with her, she was encouraging us to come in for a fitting, swearing by the talent of her and partner/owner of 5 years Tracy Anderson, as well as their fab European products. When IamMoody and La Bratique teamed up to bring us their first ever runway event “La Femme La Fashion” coming up on November 12^th, we were thrilled to have our excuse to come in for ourselves! Since all of their fittings are done in a pre-scheduled, private one-on-one session, we initially expected everything to be way out of our price range.

Getting sized and fitted by Tracy was an absolute delight. Even though we are not particularly shy people, we don’t think any woman gets excited about getting topless for another while trying on bras. There is just something about her that would make even the most timid woman feel incredibly comfortable and at ease; She laughed with us, telling us that even the shyest of women come in to their fittings feeling a little self conscious, and by the end of their time they are walking around in their undergarments in La Bratiques’ main room, completely disregarding the window view that is visible from the street. Tracy is extremely professional and aims to get the perfect bra and fit for all customers; no matter what they might be looking for! “The average American woman’s breast size is D or DD.” Now that was a statement we were not expecting to hear. Coming from women who share the big-breasted-burden, we had expected the average to be smaller, something like a B or C cup. Well, we were wrong about that! We also walked in to our appointment wearing what we were told were correct sized bras for each of us; but we were wrong again! One thing Tracy emphasizes is education. During a fitting, she is constantly explaining her process for selecting the perfect bra; she thoroughly describes why each item is or is not working on your body. It is truly an impossible feat to leave without taking customized information about your specific body shape and the support it needs. One thing left us flabbergasted was when she mentioned that some women in their 50’s and 60’s come in to get fitted by her, having worn the wrong bra size their whole life! We are so happy we got to her sooner! Just by hearing Tracy speak, her mission is visible: to educate females as early as possible about the importance of wearing the right bra for your body shape. Its more than customer service, she really cares about women and their health.

After we left, we were able to see what it means to actually have “support” in a bra. It easy to look at elements of design, but it is not so easy to look at an intimate and evaluate exactly how it will fit once on the body. Even though we know the importance of support and coverage, there is no need to forgo the sex appeal at La Bratique. In fact, their luxurious selection re-defines what it is to be sexy and to have sex appeal, without melon-like cleavage and constant re-adjustment. Looking back, it was a pleasant surprise when we discovered the prices of these items are considerably lower than we anticipated-their price range runs from about $55-$175 for a bra, not quite the $250 we would have expected due to their professional nature and expertise.

Come watch as our gorgeous Gabby Navarro strut her stuff along with four other beautiful models in the upcoming runway event “La Femme La Fashion” on November 12^th. You can check out La Bratique’s website at http://www.labratique.com. The show will be accessorized with glamorous jewelry from local jewelry designer Realia by Jen, we highly suggest stopping by her page here http://www.realiabyjen.com.

Event info for La Femme La Fashion on November 12^th: http://labratique.eventbrite.com

Location: Bella Salon and Spa at 50th andFrance(3811 W. 50th Street,Edina)

Time: 5:30-10:00pm

The evening will have a limited guest list, RSVP required!

Authors and Editors

Jordan Nentl & Gabby Navarro

You & Me: In-Store Showcase

October 16, 2012 by IamMoody

“Will you be my new friend?” was the theme received from the You & Me Boutique. Within 30 seconds of entering the door Tim welcomed us with a lively approach and smile. The atmosphere was great; there was a live pianist and lots of chatty people. You & Me were featuring local designers: Samantha R. Crossland of Blasphemina’s Closet, Samuel James for Skinned, Missie Kittok of Affair Nights Longing, and Sina Y. [Design] Collection. You could really tell the staff enjoyed being at the You & Me Store. It was nice to see the t-shirts we wandered past matched their overall attitude.

Tim came up to us and gave us a tour of the store. He and his brother, Thom Navarro along with friends Jim and Katy Vereide own the store and opened it together about two years ago. They do everything from in-store tailoring to custom design and jewelry. The store capitalizes on the custom shopping experience: there are work stations set up throughout the store, providing each customer with a role in the creative process of their garment. They’re not shy about their mission, you can find it right on their website: “We carry no sizes, if it fits it’s yours, if it doesn’t we can either alter it to fit or design something custom for you.” This boutique may not carry sizes, but they do carry something more important: an aim-to-please attitude and willingness to go the extra mile.

Not only are the folks at You & Me experts at tailoring and design, but they also make a killer drink! Their signature drink is called “The Button.” Light and refreshing just like their creators, it is concocted of mango, orange and pineapple juice, vodka and seltzer.

We were immediately drawn to the most adorable and trendy accessory everyone should try this fall, a faux-collar necklace. These beauties come in all patterns and textures for you to find the one that fits your personal style best; from an argyle number with feather accents, to vintage-inspired with lace trimming, and shearling. Put the argyle collar with fur detailing on top of a black long sleeve top with a sheer chest and long sleeves tucked into a gray pencil skirt with black lace up booties. Another way to try the faux-collar look would be to pair the gray beaded collar with a green, chunky-knit scoopneck sweater casually tucked into an a-line black leather above-the-knee skirt. With so many styling possibilities, we definitely need to go back and buy one…or all of them!

Metallic is overtaking the runways. This year-round trend makes these pieces easy to transition from Fall to Spring. The first cropped top has a gold and black circular print pattern for the bust and a cut out lace chest detailing. You do not need to rely on jewelry to make a statement when wearing this top! Match it up with a pair of black skinnies, a blazer and a pair of booties and you’re ready to go out for a night on the town. The middle shell would be perfect paired with a wide leg pant and sky high stilettos. The leaf appliqué makes the blue sequin bandeau a fun way to resist the cold weather by baring just a sliver of tummy with a high-waisted bottom and jacket. Either way you dress it, adding metallic is an effortless way to make any size, shape, color, or age stand out in any crowd.

It’s hard to believe that we have never happened across this little gem in Uptown, tucked away between the Red Dragon and Clown Glass; but I am very happy we came to check it out, and look forward to many more visits in the future! A big thanks again to Tim & Thom Navarro and also Jim & Katy Vereide for their incredibly warm and genuine hospitality.

Authors and Editors

Jordan Nentl & Gabby Navarro
Check You & Me out at:

http://shopyouandme.com/

2114B Lyndale Ave S

Mpls, MN 55405

Phone: 612-823-8200

Vintage Did It First

October 6, 2012 by IamMoody

Blacklist Vintage was packed with local vintage fashion lovers for their Second Annual Vintage Did It First show. The idea is simple: using the stores many treasures to re-create trendy modern-day styles using the clothes that bored them at first. Stylists use vintage clothing to re-create the likes of Vivienne Westwood, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Lanvin, Valentino, and many more. Here are our three favorite styles that we think are easiest to incorporate into day to day wear.

First is the Crimson Velvet Pant Suit inspired by Ralph Lauren. Why do we love it? Overall, the rich, luxe texture; it brings an edge to any look and gives an otherwise basic suit more substance. We love the chandelier necklace and the smoking slippers are a nice touch.

Next, is the Boho Sweater inspired by Michael Kors. This look consists of a basic gold/ metallic dress coupled with a carelessly chic long neutral sweater with a fur collar. A must for this outfit is an updo. If you have long flowing hair it would only distract from the beauty of the collar. Using a patent leather belt shows off the waist and makes the look complete.

The key piece that inspired our next choice ensemble is Vivienne Westwood’s wool plaid pants. The belted, high-rise waistline creates an hourglass shape every woman lusts for, while the gradually tapered leg makes for a long, more sexy overall appearance. The graphic tee and trench coat add a casual punk rock feel.

A special thanks to Blacklist Vintage for hosting an delightful event. Shopping your amazing collection of merchandise, $3 drinks and awesome throwback music was a treat. PHOTOS BY STACY SCHWARTZ on Saturday, September 22, 2012.

Blacklist Vintage

25 E 26th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55404

Authors and Editors

Jordan Nentl & Gabby Navarro