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Baby, take a bow!

Wednesday, June 9th, 2010

The more we have gotten to meet our lovely CRAVE counterparts around town – and around the country – the more we find out that CRAVE women are all truly kids at heart. From the bright red high heels we wear, to the colorful creativity infused into our projects and businesses, it’s almost like the real-life version of playing ‘grown-up’. At least, on the really challenging days, that’s how we like to think of it! Whether or not you’re shopping with a child in mind or simply indulging your own inner kid, we think you’ll adore these terrific shops featuring play toys, itty bitty clothes, and things that make you “ooh” and “ahh” with a wistful nostalgia.

Bananas for Kids (1157 E Wayzata Blvd)
This Wayzata shop is a favorite among locals for so many reasons, including their beautifully-made and unique clothing options for newborns, boys, and girls. Sheila Vaccaro opened the store in 1978, and since then, has expanded her carefully selected stock to include both local and European designers and artisans. The retro Euro-style bathing tub makes for a terrific baby gift!
bananasforkids.com

Red Rover Kids (214 Main St S)
Not only does this boutique’s name conjure up memories of playground fun, so do the cheerfully fun products they carry. We could keep ourselves busy for hours in the rows of  super-cute sneakers, tricycles, and beautiful books on display in this downtown Stillwater store. With the sturdy hardwood floors,  you may be tempted to try out the tricycle. But please, leave the tricks for the kids!
redroverkids.com

Blooma (various locations, see website for addresses)
This may be a spot you’ll visit before you begin the shopping for your little one: a yoga studio with classes designed especially for expecting parents. Blooma’s three Twin Cities’ locations offer pre and post-natal classes, family yoga, childbirth education, and even provide on-side child-care during many classes. It will be just the remedy you need after that bout on the monkey bars.
blooma.com

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Bloggers To Watch Out For

Tuesday, June 8th, 2010

These days, blogs are a dime a dozen. Any two-bit hack with a dial-up connection can spout nonsense into the infinite Inter-void — and they do. But here in the Twin Cities, a few talented lady-bloggers rise above the rabble. Add a trio of quality content to your blogroll with Yes & Yes, Twelve22 and The Daily Whip.

Sarah Von Bargen of Yes & Yes
yesandyes.org

Sarah Von Bargen — or “Sarah Von,” as she’s known in the blogosphere — is one sassy dame. With plucky wit, a smidge of snark and a healthy respect for girly baubles, she offers insightful tips on dirt-cheap travel, break-up survival and non-traditional career trajectories. Her “True Stories” series — first-person perspectives from people with extraordinary life experiences — is not to be missed. She’s also one of the most prolific bloggers in the Twin Cities, with new posts every single morning, a spin-off clothing and accessory shop and a gorgeous line of calendars and “karma cards.”

Anna Torborg of Twelve22
twelve22.org

Visiting Twelve22 is like sinking into your favorite auntie’s rocking chair with a mug of chamomile tea. Anna Torborg takes readers on a gentle amble through her daily activities: thrift-store shopping, sewing, baking and tending to her feline companions, Beany and Birdie. Her photographs are crisp, airy and 100% original — she never uses stock photography. Loyal readers rejoice in her gardening and running tips, as well as her craft tutorials and downloadable DIY paper house models. Skip the Xanax and settle into one of Ms. Torborg’s blissful recaps of domestic life in fair Minneapolis.

Erika Lyremark of The Daily Whip
dailywhip.com

Feisty, ferocious and unapologetic, exotic dancer-turned-career coach Erika Lyremark cracks and sizzles with daily whips of wisdom. Part traditional blog and part Twitter-esque stream of consciousness, Erika’s daily questions, quotations and commands are designed to spark rapid-fire action. Primarily a platform for her one-on-one coaching business, Erika’s blog is a destination for entrepreneurial spirits who want the straight dope — minus the hippie-dippie fluff.

ALEXANDRA FRANZEN is a freelance copywriter specializing in resume design, public broadcasting and corporate branding — with a kick. You can find her blogging up a storm at Unicorns for Socialism and tweeting away @alex_franzen.

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Slip into Summer!

Wednesday, June 2nd, 2010

Women are known to be particular when it comes to certain things: our morning latte’s (must be piping hot), our toilet seats (must be down), our fabric softeners (must be REALLY soft), and our shoes, which must be not only amazing but able to stick with us as we jaunt, jog, and journey around town. As one of the few things that can inspire either rapturous joy or sorrowful pain (goodbye four-inch heels with no support), picking out the right pair can be a daunting task. Luckily, our city is full of women who understand the importance of a good shoe and have made it their business to offer up the best of the best to the rest of us. Here are a few of our favorite spots to find your perfect pair – or pairs – in which to take on the city in full force!

Pumpz & Company (3335 Galleria)
 This Galleria shop is well-known for its up-to-the-minute styles and selection which include not only incredible footwear but gorgeous handbags and other accessories. With enough unique designer force to knock your socks off, don’t be surprised if your friends can’t stop staring toward the ground! We are especially fans of the Doris Espadrille for a classic summer shoe with a cool modern twist.
http://www.pumpzco.com/

Side Door LTD. (647 East Lake Street)
 Nestled in the heart of Wayzata, this boutique is a hidden gem that draws us to Lake Minnetonka almost as much as the lake itself! With an exceptional array of shoes to fit the mood and feet of every lady, we can’t stay away from this sweet shop especially with the summery selection of strappy sandals and fabulous flats.
http://www.facebook.com/sidedoorboutique

Stella (216 S Main St)
 This sassy, trendy boutique is definitely the toast of Stillwater when it comes to the latest and greatest fashion items – and its shoes are no exception. From pop-colored heels to subtle sneakers and flip-flops, this little shop is worth the trip! We promise you won’t find yourself complaining as you stroll adorable downtown Seattle in your new kicks.
www.stellastillwater.com

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Sunny days are here to stay!

Wednesday, May 26th, 2010

Minnesota summers are made for trips to the lake, lazy picnics at the park, and happy hours on your favorite bar’s patio. And the one item that is essential for each of these sunshine-filled outings? Sunglasses! From va-va vintage oval shapes to sporty aviators to glitzy-glammed frames, there is a style to make every girl shine. But don’t forget other goodies like cheery parasols, glam-girl hats, and head-turning hairbands. We’ve scoured the streets of our city to find you some of the best spots to find the accessories you’ll be CRAVEing all summer long! And don’t forget to pick up a newly-released CRAVE MSP Guidebook at each stop!

Ladyslipper Boutique (4940 France Ave)
Named after the delicate state flower of Minnesota, this boutique on 50th and France definitely makes a local girl proud. With a mix of classic and up-and-coming designers, the owners have created a gorgeous space filled with goods for every price range. The boutique is known for its amazing assortment of shoes, but the little extras carry their own chic touches as well. Bright and bold headbands and hats add a perfect pop to a classic white tee with pedal-pusher jeans.

Dichotomy (611 E. Lake Street)
While this Wayzata boutique carries a little bit of everything, its penchant for the rare and unique will make you feel like you stepped into someone’s closet. Browsing the racks and displays, you’ll find dresses in darling summer prints, stunning silk scarves, and gorgeous cloth bags perfect for toting your beach towel and flip flops. With an ever-changing selection of items, this little gem is a place that always keeps us coming back for more.

Melly (3327 Galleria)
If you don’t enter this store in a bright mood, we would put bets down that you’ll leave with one – and a sunny summer item to match! A Lilly Pullitzer Via Store, this Galleria boutique features an abundance of designers and items that make us feel warmer all winter long. Take advantage of the summer months to show off your legs in a knee-skimming bohemian-inspired tunic or add shimmer to your evening attire with a clutch in golden sand shades.

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Our CRAVE Beauty Secrets Revealed

Monday, May 10th, 2010

As fabulous as every CRAVE woman is, we all could benefit from a session of beauty secret-swapping. Long days and long nights hopping from place to amazing place can take its toll on even the most impeccably gorgeous glower. To gain insight on how the girl-about-town stays looking her best, we’ve asked our resident staff at CRAVE what types of tricks were up their sleeves. And unlike other kinds of secrets, we don’t feel guilty for sharing these at all!

Hair

  • Try fabric softener for a great leave-in conditioner. Dilute a 1/2 cup with 1 cup of water and for softer, fresher locks.
  • For between shampoos: degrease oily hair with witch hazel. Apply to your roots with a cotton ball.
  • When hair starts looking dull from too many products, use translucent face powder on the roots and brush through to give hair a subtle shine.

Skin

  • To lighten age spots and sun-damaged skin, mix the juice of 1 lemon, 1 lime, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 2 ounces of plain yogurt. Gently massage into each spot weekly for noticeable results.
  • For a great body exfoliant, scrub with dried coffee grounds. The caffeine in coffee also helps to stimulate the growth of new skin cells.
  • Keep cucumbers for your salads and use raw potato slices to remove dark under-eye circles.

Makeup

  • For lips that pop, dab a little bit of red or orange color in the center to make them appear fuller.
  • To give your lashes an extra lift, warm an eyelash curler with a blow dryer before using. Lashes will stay curled for longer and this trick doesn’t even require mascara!
  • When applying blush or bronzer, you should first know where to apply your glow. Bend over for 30 seconds, then slowly stand up. Where your cheeks are flushed is where you are meant to blush. Apply your blush there for a naturally rosy look.

* please take caution, CRAVE does not guarantee results

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Celebrating women and mothers with Fleurish!

Thursday, May 6th, 2010

I cherish my mother and sister. They are the ones I turn to first with any important or exciting news–the ones who rejoice or cry with me and lend their ears and support to all my endeavors. Each year as Mother’s Day comes around I always wonder how I can honor my mother in a way that lets her know how wonderful she truly is. I want to get her something unique, something that she wouldn’t buy herself. This year I was thrilled to learn that Fleurish, a custom gift basket and stationary store in Wayzata is hosting an event this Thursday through Saturday to celebrate the special women and mothers in our lives.

Fleurish carries a wonderful selection of baby items, gourmet foods, bath products, purses, tote bags, stationary, invitations and thank you cards–many of which are locally made or sourced. They even do monograms! Create a custom-made gift basket filled with all your mom’s favorite things, add in some new items to try and you know you’ll be giving her a gift she’ll remember forever. What better way to show your love and appreciation to the most special woman in your life? While you’re there, pick up items for all the showers, weddings and graduations coming up this Spring and Summer. Fleurish carries the best shower gifts and beautiful cards! Even more exciting, there will be a special gift of chocolate bark with a purchase of $50 or more.

Fleurish is offering a very special deal. During this sale you can pre-order a Minneapolis/St. Paul CRAVE book for $19.95! If you pre-order, you will be sure to have one in hand as soon as they are available.

To go:

Open Thursday and Friday from 10-5, and Saturday from 10-2.

www.fleurishllp.com

240 Minnetonka Ave South

Wayzata, MN 55391

952-476-2296

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5 Myths About Stillwater We Simply Must Crack!

Wednesday, May 5th, 2010

Come on over to Stillwater and visit some of the most fashion-forward, innovative and savvy businesses in all of the Twin Cities. There are so many fabulous women owned businesses in downtown Stillwater you can make a full day or weekend out of your visit. It’s a perfect getaway for Mother’s Day, Memorial Day weekend, or just a sunny spring Saturday!

I am here to debunk any and all myths about Stillwater AND give you the hottest tips on where to go when you visit! (I will write more about the shops in my next Stillwater blog—this is to just get you there!)

1. “It’s all antiques”
From one end of Main Street to the other, Stillwater boasts shops filled with the latest fashion (Collaborations 129 1/2 Main St S, and Stella), fitness/yoga (Studio Cates), a trend-setting salon (Monde), gourmet restaurants (Savories), sophisticated home decor (Alfresco, Interior Motive, and Maison Galleria), an adorable yarn shop (Darn Knit Anyway) a charming kids store (Red Rover Kids), not to mention the perfect stop for coffee and a scone (Supreme Bean Expresso Cafe – 402 Main St N).  And that’s just Main Street!

2. “There’s no parking”
Rubbish! I have been to Stillwater three times just since December, and every time I find plenty of on-street parking! If you are planning a visit, call any of the local shop owners and they will happily suggest the closest FREE parking lot!

3. “Traffic problems”
I zoomed right into Stillwater without incident nor traffic every time. But here is an inside scoop: Follow signs on Hwy 36 and Take Cty Rd. 15/Manning to Cty Rd 12/Myrtle and zip on down—lickety split!

4. “It’s full of tourists!”
Are you a tourist if you live in Excelsior and shop on Grand? No! It’s metro shoppers who know Stillwater is THE place to shop for fabulous finds! My good friend and fashion maven (and her husband!) drive into Stillwater from Minneapolis once every 6 weeks just to get their hair cut! They make an event of it by grabbing a bite to eat and doing a bit of shopping too. Would they do that for the past 8 years if it wasn’t a fun way to spend an evening?

5. “It’s expensive!”
NO WAY! I bought a fantastic designer dress at Collaborations that was under $50! Fashion forward design, fabulous fit, wool/cashmere, no tailoring necessary. Simply perfect. Looks like I bought it in the Oval Room but I supported a local designer AND shop owner! Many of these shop owners travel around the country to buy lines that big box stores do not carry. As you shop the marvelous stores in Stillwater, remember that your purchases send money back into the community. 76 cents for every dollar spent goes back into the community when you shop local versus 46 cents when you shop big department stores and ZERO when you shop online!

Don’t forget to meander around Stillwater and find more great shops tucked away: Camrose Hill Flowers is a must stop, simply to check out their incredibly charming space—it feels like you’re in a 100-year-old English mansion! Bring home fresh flowers grown on a local farm, too.

Down the road a bit is THE BEST stop for all your summer picnic goodies. Heather at Bread Art makes everything herself from artisan breads to cookies, pies to pastries. They look and taste so yummy that you’ll want to throw a backyard party! Scratch baking never tasted so good!

If that is not enough incentive, right next door is La Cocinita Restaurante where Angelina boasts award winning salsa and scrumptious homemade Mexican dishes that must be accompanied by her delicious margaritas! We came for lunch and were tempted to just stay through dinner because the hospitality and the food was so warm and welcoming.

So come visit Stillwater in the next few weeks. You will be so happy you did! We promise!

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Posted in Abode, Adorn, Details, Enhance, Moms, Sip / Savor, Style | 5 Comments »

Who IS that woman wearing the great dress?

Friday, April 30th, 2010

Coco Chanel said “Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably and they remember the woman.”

Those are words that CRAVE women live by and Lisa Rubin is the woman who you can have in your corner as your secret weapon for amazing style and sophistication- no matter how big or small your budget (or your bottom, for that matter!) . “Lisa is part fashion guru, part coach, part therapist” says a long time client. She counts on Lisa to insure she puts her best foot forward in all of her professional meetings as a CFO of a medical device company. “I had the nightmare of going to a warm climate for business after I gained 20 unwanted pounds- I was sure I could not look attractive and confident. Lisa assured me she would find everything I needed to wear from sunup to sundown that would allow me to focus on matters more important than my body image. She absolutely delivered and I felt wonderful the entire trip -PLUS, I can wear all the clothes at home as well!”

This Spring, have you looked into your closet and cringed, looking for the “right” thing to wear? Do you ever buy pieces that you think will look great only to find that you rarely, if ever, feel good when you put them on?   Lisa is the most affordable piece of your wardrobe budget- she is so cost effective you will actually spend LESS when she advises you on what truly works for your lifestyle, budget and body style.

Caught yourself saying “Why does she always look so put together and I don’t?”. In this economy and with our lives and budgets stretched to the max, Lisa provides the most efficient way to get the most out of every piece of clothing in your closet. Busy professionals, new moms, women entering into the workforce again as well as women who have gained/lost significant weight ALL HIRE LISA for her ability to tailor her solutions for each individual.

Lisa Rubin brings 25 years of experience and impeccable taste to each of her clients so they can confidently go about their day in the boardroom, courtroom, client meeting, school or special event.  If you want to be confident that your wardrobe projects the image you intend, Lisa is the woman to work with. For over 20 years, women have counted on Lisa to save them hundreds of dollars, not to mention HOURS as well as anquish, working with them quickly and expertly in determining the best pieces for them.

As you stare into your closet this spring, wondering what to wear to important Spring and Summer events- call Lisa. I guarantee you will be thrilled you did. Don’t you want to be the woman that everyone says “Who IS that woman in the great dress”?

“Fashion passes, style remains”, Coco Chanel.

Lisa Rubin, Wardrobe Consultant
612-747-6695
lisa@wardrobeconsulting.net
2435 Emerald Trail Minnetonka, MN 55305

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Here comes the sun, here comes the style!

Wednesday, April 21st, 2010

One of our favorite parts of spring – besides warmer weather, the return of the Twins, and fresh flowers all around us – is the chance it gives us to clean out our closets! Because once you’ve rid yourself of that pilly sweater that should have been tossed three seasons ago, you’ll have even more space to fill it with the CRAVE-worthy items of the season. And in the spirit of renewal and rebirth, why not take some chances on your wardrobe selections by picking out something you ordinarily wouldn’t? Try out a new color or different style of jeans; add some fun patterns (polka-dots and florals will be big) or mix up your accessories with some loud statement pieces. Our lovely metropolis has a bevy of boutiques to provide you with the inspiration you’ll CRAVE to complete your new spring look.

If there weren’t already a dozen reasons to visit the historic Cathedral Hill neighborhood in St. Paul, Karma (867 Grand Ave.) is another. Housing an eclectic mix of designers, the store carries heels, handbags, and everything in between. Made for “the modern bohemian”, Karma is both chic and laid-back, but altogether unique.

A long, long time ago, the Twin Cities fashionista would have had to travel long distances to get their designer fix before the season’s end. Now, they go to OPM Boutique (3700 Grand Way). With top designers like Diane von Furstenberg and Alexander McQueen, OPM is not shy about its fashion addiction. But the boutique also carries designers that will cover a range of price points. If you’re curious about the fabulous world of luxury fashion, consider OPM Boutique your gateway spot.

It’s no coincidence this boutique calls itself Covered (1201 Lagoon Ave.), because when it comes to finding you the most flattering pair of jeans in the city, that’s exactly what they’ll do. Located in the heart of Uptown near Lake Calhoun, the shop matches the neighborhood’s laid-back feel to a T. Stop in for a visit, and get yourself fitted; or call ahead to arrange a private shopping party for any type of occasion.

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MNFashionWeek kicks off with Envision Artopia

Friday, April 16th, 2010

The fashion forward of the Twin Cities flocked to the Graves 601 hotel last Saturday for Envision Artopia an evening that fused art, music and fashion into one stellar event. What’s more? Three of CRAVE’s own played essential roles in the success of the evening: VimLab Promotions headed the PR, OPM showcased their hottest spring trends, and Cafe Barbette provided a luxury nosh of fresh oysters on the half shell. Naturally I had to go and check it out to give CRAVE readers the scoop on the hottest event in town.

In it’s third year, Envision is a bi-annual fashion event produced by the founders of Ignite Models, Allison Hamzephour and Jessica Cunningham, in conjunction with V2 Nightlife and Futuretime productions. VimLab’s Natalie Auger, who will be featured in the upcoming Minneapolis CRAVE guide, headed the promotions and PR for the event, and attracted the Twin Cities’ most stylish and elite residents to the venue. The new name, Envision Artopia, was inspired by the exciting new addition of creating a mural live during the event by local artists. It was sold at the silent auction with all proceeds benefiting the Young Survival Coalition.

In the packed venue fashionistas clinked glasses and mingled, checking out the art displays, sampling oysters on the half shell from a CRAVE favorite, Cafe Barbette, and sampling a selection of wine and cheese. As people continued to pour in from the gorgeous Spring evening, three hairstylists demonstrated live how to match a model’s hair to a look on the stage.

As the gorgeous and dressed to kill crowd made their way to their seats the fast pace runway show began.We are thrilled to be featuring OPM in our CRAVE guide of Minneapolis and St. Paul and I was so excited to see the fun looks OPM provided for the Envision show. From bold patterned shifts, to structured shoulders, to cut-to-there dresses, they impressed us with their super stylish yet completely wearable selection for spring. Other Twin Cities boutiques, including Bumpershute, Drama, Elsworth Mens, Local Motion, Vstate and Cliche also showed us their best Spring looks on the leggy and edgy Ignite Models.

After the display of trends from the boutiques and a quick intermission to mingle and refill our glasses, local designers Amanda Christine, Arwyn Birch, Jenny Carle, Kjurek Couture, Peloria, Sarah M. Holm, Russell Bourrienne and Rose White had a chance to showcase their work.

With long runways, live music and art installations, a silent auction and a venue packed to the rafters with trend setters from the Twin Cities…it felt like I had been transported out of the Midwest–what a perfect way to celebrate the beginning of Spring and the start of Minnesota Fashion Week!

For more info:

Envision

www.envisionmpls.com

VimLab Promotions Inc.

www.vimlab.com

Barbette

www.barbette.com

OPM

www.opmboutique.com

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