Blogger Diary: C. Wonder Opening Event
Chaucee Stillman of Streets and Stripes shares images from the King of Prussia opening.
December 13, 2012
Last week, C. Wonder hosted a VIP event celebrating the opening of their newest location in King of Prussia. Walking through the new C. Wonder is certainly the ultimate shopping experience. All of the store's seven separate rooms are inspired by a different period in America, and each is equipped with eye-catching displays and perfectly arranged products. Visit StreetsAndStripes.com for more visuals starting tomorrow (Thursday).
For more on the new C. Wonder, see what founder Chris Burch has to say>>
Chaucee Stillman of StreetsAndStripes.com is a freelance photographer and blogger covering life and style in the city of Philadelphia. She writes for the culturally aware reader covering topics such as fashion events, lifestyle stories, and interviews with Philly's creatives. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @chaucee to stay updated on happenings in the city!
Photography by Chaucee Stillman
Weekend Recommender: December 14-16
A primping party, working out for a cause, and a chance to adopt a pet.
December 12, 2012
Balance Chestnut Hill's "Winter Warm-Up" event supports Cradles to Crayons.
Primp Me Pretty
Friday, December 14, 7 PM
Kick the weekend off with a beautifying session at Sun Myst Tanning Spa, where you’ll get a gorgeous holiday-apropos glow with a custom airbrush, glitter spray, and teeth whitening by Sun Myst. Guests will also enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and music while getting makeup, hair, and eyebrows professionally done with MAC cosmetics, Heads and Tails, and Valerie Peoples, respectively. Appointments required by calling 215-545-5010 or emailing infotan@mysunmyst.com. 124 S. 16th St.
“Winter Warm-Up”
Saturday, December 15, 8–11 AM
Exclusive private and semi-private personal training and fitness studio, Balance Chestnut Hill, invites guests to work out for a cause during the Winter Warm-Up event. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience a jam-packed morning of fitness classes including boot camp, cycling, balance burn, zumba/dance fitness, and more. All proceeds ($10 minimum donation is asked per class), as well as any donations of socks, hats, and mittens, will go to Cradles to Crayons. Register by calling 267-335-2271 or emailing info@balancech.com. 12 W. Willow Grove Ave.
Paws, Tails, & Cocktails
Sunday, December 16, 6-9 PM
As a follow up to the Terrain Holiday Open House, The Delaware County SPCA will host a special fundraising event to help the SPCA in finding homes for local animals. For the price of admission ($40) guests will meet adorable cats and dogs that are currently up for adoption while receiving cocktails, appetizers, and 15% off any purchase. Purchase tickets by visiting shopterrain.com, and don’t forget to BYOD—bring your own dog—if you wish. 914 Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills, 610-459-2400
Philipp Aduatz and Esque Studio Exhibit
The Wexler Gallery presents the works of cutting-edge artists.
December 10, 2012
Works from designer Philipp Aduatz and Esque Studio artists are now on view in The Wexler Gallery.
Vienna-based designer Aduatz is most known for creating functional objects from modern materials. Aduatz’ creation process is a combination of traditional techniques and more unusual ones such as 3D-laser scanning, CNC milling, and rapid prototyping. A prime example of Aduatz’ ability to fuse function with innovative art is Fauteuil II (Edition 1 of 12 + 3 Artist Proof), a futuristic piece of furniture.
Portland-based Esque Studio—the product of an artistic partnership between Andi Kovel and Justin Parker—also designs modern-art objects. Part of Time’s “Design 100,” Esque Studio is known for crafting handmade glassworks using top-quality glass and recycled materials. The brand counts big-names and top companies like Donna Karan, Hugo Boss, Sephora, Anthropologie, and The W Hotel on their client list. In particular, Mirror Abstraction reimagines an everyday household object with beautifully organic bubbles of glass.
The exhibit is open to the public through February 23, 2013. 201 N. Third St., 215-923-7030
Dinner Plans: Sampan’s Asian-Fusion Fare
Michael Schulson offers Philadelphians Asian-Fusion communal-style food and drink.
December 07, 2012
Situated on the busy side of 13th Street in Center City, chef Michael Schulson’s Sampan offers communal-style dining with Asian-Fusion fare that’s unlike any other in the city. For starters, the “communal” stamp doesn’t just apply to shared plates—guests can order Scorpion Bowls to sip alongside two or three friends. Try the Fall Back, made with Black Velvet, five spiced apple cider, and bubbles; The Bubble Tea Bowl, comprised of Bacardi Wolf Berry, green tea, and ginger; or the Mid Town Punch, with Absolut Citron, lychee, and pomegranate. Inventive drinks for one, like the Twisted Tai or Junmai Fizz, as well as various beers on tap, sakes, and wines, round out the drink options.
But back to those shared plates. In addition to menu items like general Tso soup dumplings, lobster ceviche, crispy Szechuan chicken, Pekin duck, and seared tuna, Sampan perfectly executes vegetarian options. Meatless dishes include edamame dumplings, kim che fried rice, and the award-worthy tofu taco, stacked with avocado, cilantro, and pickled shallots.
For dessert, the homemade mini soft-serve ice cream provides upgraded versions of your favorite childhood flavors, and updates the featured flavor daily. Or, end your meal with five-spice sampan churros drizzled in house-made Nutella; or the Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate, a flourless cake with dulce de leche and Vietnamese ice cream. 124 S. 13th St., Center City, 215-732-3501
2013 Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster
Geometric lines and a removable top define the new model.
December 06, 2012
Lamborghini adds another roadster to its stellar line-up, dropping just in time for summer 2013 sunshine. The new Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster will very likely become the most sought-after production vehicle from the Raging Bull, while simultaneously raising the bar for the world standard of luxury, open-air supercars. The Italian exotic, which is not a limited-production model, is currently available for ordering.
Molded from Lamborghini’s successful coupe, which was presented during the summer of 2011 and has enjoyed a sales run of 1,300 units, the Aventador convertible emblematically commingles sophistication and motoring technology with pure driving gratification. New geometric lines and a removable top will distinguish the two body types.
Q&A: Couture Dressmaker Irina Sigal
The independent fashion mogul opens a namesake boutique in Center City.
December 03, 2012
Premier couture designer and Philadelphia fashion icon, Irina Sigal, is opening a namesake boutique in Center City this week (December 6). The MyPHL 17’s “Best Alterations and Tailoring” award winner recently caught up with Philadelphia Style to discuss her new store, inspirations, and personal style. 2038 Locust St., Center City, 215-772-1121
What about Center City made it the location for your store?
IRINA SIGAL: The custom pieces I create always have a personality and boldness to them, which I find is ideal for the women who live here.
Do you have any new winter items of note?
IS: One of my favorite designs for the winter is our tailored coats. This year the coats are feminine and well-fitted, sitting on the body somewhat like a dress. With the classic combination of black and white, the coats are made with beautiful unusual lining, and are a must-have for the season!
What is your top inspiration?
IS: My inspiration can come from anywhere, and often comes when I least expect it. An idea can come to me from finding a beautiful fabric, a small detail on a handbag, or a city I have traveled [to]. Most often, however, it is a woman’s vision or personality that inspires my designs. Combining fashion with individuality brings endless possibilities.
And, what about Philadelphia inspires you the most?
IS: I have always loved the city. At heart I am a city woman, and I enjoy the energy and the pace of city living.
What do you think is most exciting about the fashion industry?
IS: It’s constantly evolving, going backward and forward in time. However, what is flattering to a woman’s body remains the same no matter what the latest fashion dictates. This is what I find most exciting about fashion—helping women stay within what is perfectly flattering to their individual shapes while adding a touch of the latest trend.
How would you describe your personal style?
IS: When it comes to my personal style, I have somewhat of a double personality. Inside I am attracted to the classic, timeless, Chanel pieces, but often when I leave the house my outfit can be described as avant-garde. I have a classic style, but at the same time I am not afraid to take risks when it comes to fashion. Although I must admit that when it comes to color, black is always my preference.
Weekend Recommender: November 30-December 2
A holiday greens sale, a celebration for a cause, and a bit of seasonal culture.
November 29, 2012
This weekend, check out Nutcracker 1776 at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Holiday Happy Hour at Cavanaugh's Rittenhouse
Friday, November 30, 7-9 PM
Take pleasure in the best parts of the holiday season at Cavanaugh's Rittenhouse this Friday. Guests will enjoy two hours of drinks along with a delicious buffet from the Rittenhouse Square eatery. All proceeds from the event go toward the Ronald McDonald House. Event-goers can also receive a complimentary Yards draft for bringing an unwrapped item from the charity's official Holiday Wish List. Purchase your ticket ($20), grab your friends, and toast to the holiday season. 1823 Sansom St., 215-665-9500
Holiday Greens Sale at Strawberry Mansion
Saturday-Sunday, December 1-2, 10 AM-4 PM
The Historic Strawberry Mansion will host a Holiday Green Sale at Mount Pleasant North Pavilion of Fairmount Park. Shoppers can stock up on holiday decorations including juniper and magnolia wreaths, boxwood balls, and many other beautiful pieces. Proceeds go toward the restoration of the Historic Strawberry Mansion, a staple of Fairmount Park that dates back to 1789. The sale runs a second time on December 8 and 9. 3800 Mount Pleasant Dr., 215-683-0200
Winter Wonderland at Philadelphia Museum of Art
Sunday, December 2, 10:30 AM-2:30 PM
Welcome the holiday season with friends and family at the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s Winter Wonderland. Take part in a Gallery Quest where festive art will be displayed, try your hand at a make-and-take workshop, and catch performances of Nutcracker 1776. 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., 215-763-8100
Town Home Jewelry & Boutique Holiday Shopping Event
The two-part holiday shopping party caters to everyone on your list.
November 27, 2012
Town Home Jewelry & Boutique offers a two-part shopping party this holiday season.
On Wednesday, November 28 (5:30-8 PM) Town Home Jewelry & Boutique will welcome the holiday season with a special shopping experience, the first in a two-part event series entitled “Make Your List + Check it Twice.”
The chic Walnut Street boutique, which proudly offers unique pieces from the likes of Me&Ro, Jennifer Meyer, and Heather B. Moore, will kick off with the women’s portion this Wednesday. Expect an evening of holiday shopping complete with light bites and delicious wine from Rouge, as well as an exclusive discount that can only be applied at the event. Shoppers can also create a wish list of what they like and let the men in their lives know to look out for it at part two of the series.
The second event is slated for December 11 (5:30-8 PM) and focuses on men. Attendees can pick out the perfect gift while enjoying whiskey cocktails from Whistle Pig, fare from chef Marc Vetri and Alla Spina, and the same exclusive, one-time discount offered at the women’s event. 1616 Walnut St., 215-972-5100
PHS Holiday Pop-Up
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society opens its holiday pop-up on Wednesday.
November 26, 2012
The PHS pop-up shop offers unique holiday gift options.
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) will open their holiday pop-up store in Chestnut Hill this Wednesday (November 28) through Sunday, December 23. Shoppers will be whisked into a 400-square-foot winter wonderland garnished with garland, birchwood, mercury glass, and glitter.
The array of home, kitchen, and garden items on offer is just as spectacular. Potential presents include vintage glass glitter ornaments, terrariums, handmade sauces by Christina Maser, and tabletop gardens. Sneak peeks from the highly anticipated 2013 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show “Brilliant” (March 2-10, 2013) will also be available for shoppers, including lavish, British-inspired plaid cashmere scarves and exclusive ticket packages.
PHS’ expert staff members will be on hand to give demonstrations and product sampling, and complimentary wine and cheese will be offered every Wednesday night (6-9 PM) during the month-long shopping extravaganza. 8232 Germantown Ave.
New Chef for Valley Forge Casino Resort
World-renowned chef Tony Clark reimagines offerings at the casino’s two restaurants.
November 19, 2012
Valley Forge Casino Resort ups the excitement about its recently reimagined restaurants with the addition of world-renowned chef Tony Clark. Acting as the executive chef of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s only resort/casino, chef Clark will helm both eateries—Pacific Prime and Viviano.
While Pacific Prime focuses on upscale dining featuring fresh fish and fine meats, Clark will be able to practice his Italian culinary skills at Viviano, a home-style Italian eatery that also features Spanish, French, and Thai-influenced dishes. It is Clark’s Le Bernardin and Jean Georges-styled dishes that have inevitably crowned him Food and Wine Magazine’s Best New Chef in America in 1997, and earned his Broad Street restaurant, Tony Clark’s, the title of Philly’s Best Restaurant. You may also know Clark as a regular on the Philadelphia-based cooking show, The Chef’s Kitchen, and as the star of Rock Star Kitchen. We can’t wait to see what he dishes out in this exciting new venture. 1160 First Ave., King of Prussia, 610-354-8118
