Luxe Life: Got $200 grand lying around? We've got a suggestion for your Inauguration happenings.

In today's crunched economy, we're continually being told that it's unseemly to flaunt your wealth, shop at Barneys, Bergdorfs or Bendels and especially irresponsible to make large purchases like homes, yachts, or luxe travel arrangements.

Propriety be damned with the Mandarin Oriental's jaw-droppingly luxe Inauguration 2009 package. If you've got $200,900 lying around, here's what it can getcha:

Presidential Privilege

A five-day, four night stay (Jan 17-21, 2009) in the ultra-luxe 3,500 square foot Presidential Suite, daily in-suite breakfast, designer outfits for Inaugural events from Ralph Lauren, a chauffer-driven Maserati Quattroporte for five days (with a daily backseat hamper of champers and exotic snacks), a fully-stocked en-suite fridge with your favorite drinks and snacks, an exclusive dinner for eight guests at CityZen (prepared by none other than Eric Ziebold himself, natch), vintage Vueve Cliquot and caviar for two, served daily at dusk in the Presidential Suite's sitting room, which over looks the Jefferson Memorial and Tidal Basin, and daily two-hour spa treatments at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental.

But your journey doesn't end there. In addition to a selection of DC-based collectibles, plus robes, you'll also get ten weekend overnight stays in a waterview room to use throughout the year, and a $10,000 donation made in your name to the new First Lady's favorite charity.

A former hotel publicist for the Mandarin recently dished to us over brunch that the package has never before been purchased, but in 2004, a client "strongly considered" the option before backing out at the last minute. If anyone will spring for it this year. We're betting top dollar that it's something that would stroke the ego of this big spender and his lucky 20-something lady love of the moment.

In case you're actually thinking about throwing down for the package, it's available via direct booking at 202.554.8588.

You're Invited: Private weekend sale at Urban Chic

Save up to 50% on select merch from Urban Chic. Plus, if you bring this StoreAdore.com coupon, you'll save 20% off any not-on-sale stuff.

Not sure which location to visit? Service at the Georgetown location has been known to be spotty, but they have the largest selection of stuff. Baltimore's boutique is one of the best I've ever seen, and their stuff for men and baby is way cute. Bethesda's shopgirls are always willing to help, and you'll also find great deals at nearby boutiques like Ginger, Little Shoe Box, and Lou Lou... but it can be a hike if you live in VA or the District. So take your chances and report back on your finds!

Mark Your Calendar: One night only sale at Hysteria

Big savings at Hysteria for night only, plus, with this coupon from CityShopGirl, you'll save 20% off all sweaters in the store!

In Case You Missed It: Weekend Guide

Halloween haunts abound this weekend, but only Deacon has the scoop on the very best events. Check out our latest DailyCandy Weekend Guide for deets.

In Case You Missed It: November Deals in Washingtonian

Check out these great holiday deals in this month's Washingtonian magazine. Deacon helped me pick out some great things to get you through the holiday season in style!

Luxe Life: Fashion 101 at the Corcocan

FYI, Edward Allen, the East Coast head of Fashion for Nordstrom, is speaking tomorrow night at the Corcoran for their bi-annual "what's hot" chat. This time, hear both a "must know now" speech where Allen dishes on how to look stylish this winter, plus the usual video by Fashion Group International on Spring 2009's hottest trends.

It starts at 6:30, but arrive a few minutes early for a good seat. We've been going to these events for some time now and had the pleasure to interview Edward for a piece in Washingtonian a few months back.

You won't want to miss it ... Tickets are available here.

In Case You Missed It: We Partied with the Power Players

We spent Saturday night at the Corcoran, partying with Richard Avedon's exhibit and the power players of DC. What did you do?

See the BizBash write up for deets.

You're Invited: Dilbar trunk show at Sangaree

Have you ever heard of a designer from Krygrystan? Chances are, that's a negative. But when you see designer Dilbar's unique and colorfully-embroidered silk jackets, skirts, and dresses, we bet you'll wish you'd known about her sooner. Check out her merch this weekend during an exclusive cocktail reception at Sangaree, the only store in the U.S. to carry her designs. We've still got our eye on the green peacoat manager (and former Ford model) Jayne Fraser snagged last season.

You're Invited: Even Keel Trunk Show

If you're suffering from post-Halloween letdown or just feeling the need to head to the gym after eating yourself into a sugar coma, we've got the activity for you.

Perk up by heading to the Even Keel trunk show at Wink, where the organic line of yoga wear is 20% off for one day only. We're absolutely obsessed with the "glam guru" pant, a straight leg pant with 80's style scrunches around the ankle. It's comfortable and stylish ... solving that problem of "what to wear" as we leave the gym.

Plus, we're hoping that the new clothes will give us an excuse to work off those few extra pounds we've noticed around our midsection recently ...

In Case You Missed It: New Store Adore Post -- Party with the Power Player

Saturday evening's gala at the Corcoran Gallery of Art was top-notch all the way around, but it did give Deacon some food for thought ... where do you go to find appropriate black tie wear? Neimans and Saks, sure ... but we weren't looking for something that every gal in town could sport.

Check out this week's Store Adore post for "Fashion fit for a Fete," plus a sneak peek at up and coming local designers ChrisKLA and BEA.

In Case You Missed it: Stylista in DC

Okay, so the first episode of Stylista was way lame, but that doesn't mean I can't be excited about my first profile in the print issue of DC magazine with the amazing Johanna Cox, DC's very own contestant and my favorite (former) fashion blogger.

Enjoy! (Click to enlarge)

In other News: Dating on Demand

One night, Deacon and I got bored and started flipping around on the TV. His paws accidentally hit the remote, and suddenly we landed on the "Dating on Demand" channel, a series of video personal ads for your local community.

We had a good laugh (he loves television, especially Dancing with the Stars) and moved on. But we just got an e-mail from our buddy M at Mie n Yu letting us know that they're hosting a filming event for upcoming episodes at the restaurant on November 19th.

If you're interested in participating, taping will take place between 7 PM and 12 AM that evening.

And hey, you just might get a date out of it. Too bad Deacon says he's already taken.

Say Yum: Death by Chocolate

If there's one food we can't get enough of, it's chocolate. You might as well call me the cocoa queen, because my apartment is always awash with the smell of brownies, cookies or some other sweet and probably bad-for-you thing a cookin'.

And so when we heard about the Mandarin Oriental DC's new promotion with Swiss chocolatier Max Felchlin, we couldn't resist passing along the word.

From November 6-23, guests have a variety of options by which to satisfy their sweet teeth.

Want a taste of it all? Try the Chocolate Dessert Buffet, Thursday through Sunday afternoons in the Empress Lounge, with desserts like into mousse, tarts, truffles and a dipping fountain with cakes and fruits. Chocolate beverages, including a choc-soy milkshake, will also be on the menu.

It's $35 per person and includes one specialty drink. Available from 2:30-5 PM Thurs-Sun. Reservations available by calling (202) 787-6868.

We're particularly excited for the November 8th Chocolate Cooking Class, where the Mandarin's pastry chef will teach participants how to make truffles, pralines and other exotic treats. Afterwards, participants get to enjoy the Death By Chocolate dessert buffet described above.

It's a hefty $150 and sounds like death to my waistline as well, but still .... YUM. November 8 from 11 AM - 2 PM. Reservations, (202) 787-6868.

In case you're more into pampering than eating, try the Chocolate Spa at the Mandarin. The 80-minute Sweet Indulgence is designed to exfoliate and soothe the skin with a vanilla sugar scrub and a 50-minute cocoa bean absolute massage. It's $215, cheaper than their regular massages ... yippee! Call for reservations: (202) 787-6100.

But there's mooooore: a "Death by Chocolate" desert in the Asian-inspired Café MoZU. It's a choice of Chocolate Crunchy Cake with spiced pine seed sable and chocolate ice cream; Chocolate Praline Ice Parfait with roasted Tahiti banana madeleines or Double Chocolate Crème Brulée Chocolate Fondant with fleur de sel caramel and lychee comfit. Desserts are individually priced at $12. Again, reservations are: (202) 787-6868.

In Case You Missed It: PassionFish opens

Deacon's gone fishing ... aka headed out for lots of events this weekend, but we'll leave you with a final peek at our most recent work. It's the opening of PassionFish, coming tomorrow, via JuliB.

You're Invited: Happy Birthday to Lotus

Not a big fan of clubs in general, but you've gotta give some props to the club that gets Lindsay Lohan out for a night of partying ... even if she did hide behind the DJ booth and blog most of the time ...

Happy Birthday, Lotus.

You're Invited: Treat's annual Halloween Handbag sale

Deacon would normally want to keep this one all to himself, but since we already spilled the beans a few months ago in The Washingtonian, we might as well tell you here too. Starting today, you'll find amazing handbag discounts at Treat's semi-annual spooky sale.

Deets below.

You're Invited: One day sale at Periwinkle

Booze and bargains, who can pass this up?

You're Invited: Haunted Juice Stand at Pink Palm

Everyone and their mother is having a sale this weekend. Stay tuned for lots of invites to come.

Luxe Life: KiKi Beach Jewlery

You probably know by now that Deacon's a sucker for most things shiny, and necklaces and bracelets are no exception. It seems like everywhere we turn these days we're finding a new local designer!

But this one has a special place in our heart - designer Catherine Koch is a graduate of Deacon's high school!

Kiki Beach is her first-ever line of fun and flirty baubles and named after her fun-loving grandmother, named (guess what) KiKi.

The line retails for between $75 and $300 at Urban Chic Bethesda, where Catherine is the store manager.

See the full unveiling of her line during a trunk show on November 13th. From 5-9 PM, you can snag 10% off the merch, plus enjoy gratis bubbly and treats.

Say Yum: Doggie Bags

If there's one thing Deacon loves, it's a good doggie bag. Well, he's in luck. DC has recently passed a law that allows patrons to leave a restaurant with a bottle of unfinished vino, provided that the product is appropriately packaged.

So one of our fave restaurants, Proof, has taken the idea and run with it. They're offering "Merlot to Go."

In accordance with the Council’s legislation, Proof will reseal the bottle, attach a dated receipt and package the bottle in one of its wine doggie bags that have been outfitted with special adhesive seals.

With over 1,100 bottles of wine in the restaurant, this looks like the beginning of a beautiful journey.

If readers know of any other restaurants that have a similar deal, be sure to let us know in the comments section.

Proof, 775 G Street, NW, Gallery Place/Chinatown. 202-73-PROOF (202-737-7663).

Reminder: Vivienne Westwood is tonight

I've said this before, but the Vivienne Westwood show at Muleh is tonight. I'm sadly going to be in class, but get your butts to 14th Street and please report back!

Luxe Life: Weekend sale at Ginger and Little Shoe Box this weekend only

Deacon spent part of Tuesday afternoon in Bethesda, and let us tell you ... the shopping was good. If our wallets hadn't been to empty, we certainly would have found time to purchase at least a few things from Bethesda Row.

But this weekend, we have reason to return. GingerThe Little Shoe Box are holding a joint sale that will run Friday-Sunday, both offering 30% off storewide in both stores.

We're hoping there's enough money in our account for these amazing Gigi Favella booties. We've been dying to rock "boots with the fur" forever. And yes, these are rap-video worthy ... that's chinchilla, biatch.


Ginger: 7114 Bethesda Lane, 301.664.9242.

The Little Shoe Box: 7134 Bethesda Lane, 301.654.7463.

In Other News: Stylista premieres TONIGHT!

We're ridiculously excited for the series premiere of the CW's latest show, Stylista, tonight at 9 PM.

(Catch a preview here)

Here's the DL, in case you've been living under a rock for the past few weeks: Hopefuls are competing for a job as a junior editor at Elle ... basically living a real life "Devil Wears Prada" under Fashion News Director Anne Slowey aka superbitch.

Why are we so excited? That's because former ASeriousJobIsNoExcuse blogger and DC resident Johanna is a contestant (see our Q&A with her in this month's issue of DC Magazine).

So yes, you'll find us tonight on our couch wearing Team Johanna (designed with J's super cute dog in mind) tee shirts and eagerly watching every snarky move Slowey makes.

In Case You Missed It: Media Mavens recap

Deacon must admit, the Media Mavens bash last night was a rousing success.

Here are the down n' dirty deets, in case you missed it: The party was a rockin event sponsored by Washington's many fashion bloggers, as well as a charity fund raiser for a local event called Blondes vs. Brunettes, where young women compete in a powder puff football game to raise funds for the National Capital Area Alzheimer's Association.

If you weren't there: you missed a great DJ spinning club and Top-40 style favorite tunes, plus a gratis buffet on the second level with dishes like jerk shrimp, mini crab cakes, and an array of pasta dishes. Most guests (see photos below, they were all fashionably attired) sipped wine or champagne while mingling, networking, and perusing StoreAdore maps of DC shops or complimentary copies of The Washington Post's new magazine, Fashion Washington.

Local bloggeristas (is that a word) like ANotSoCaptiolIdea, Project Beltway, The Glamazon Diaries, K Street Kate, Greg's List and the DC City Blog showed up in force for the event. Be sure to check their links later today for their own coverage of the event.

We're sad if you couldn't make it, but check out these great photos, below:

Suzanne Seidman of Local Kicks and designer Allison Brooks of Queen Bee Jewelery.

Yours truly with ANotSoCapitolIdea blogger and fellow Media Maven, Chandler Ramelli.

Local fashionista Rachel Cothran of Project Beltway and her roommate, Erin. Rachel's dress was only $20 from Meeps!

Grace and Alexandra were too fashionable to pass by without a photo.

Most of the evening's stylistas wore black ... DC's favorite color.

Yours truly and event coordinator for The Park (and former InTouch Weekly reporter!) Laura Carlson ... we're posing with Teddy, the mascot of the Washington Nationals baseball team. She's wearing a brand new dress from Intermix, where StoreAdore readers get $50 off purchases of $350 or more online with code ADORE at checkout.

Anna Stump and Ali Hines were excited to support local bloggers.

Even more stylish friends at the event.

In Other News: Economic-themed spa treatments

It's a rare day when Deacon's day job and other writings collide ... and yesterday, they did.

Check out this recent bit o' news ... Alabama resorts are launching "economically themed" spa treatments.

We promise not to bore you with other updates about benefits, but this one was too good to pass up :-)

Luxe Life: Leading Hotels of the World Promo is in theory taking place on Thursday

... or so they tell us. Remember when I told you about how to snag some of the world's best hotels for only $19.28 per night? Well, they had some problems with the Web site, but apparently are back online and ready to go THIS Thursday. Details are below.

WELCOME TO THE 80th ANNIVERSARY USD 19.28 SALE STATUS PAGE

Thank you for your continued interest in The Leading Hotels of the World's USD 19.28 Sale. We have created this dedicated site to keep you informed of all the latest developments relating to this 80th anniversary offer.

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We are pleased to confirm that the USD 19.28 promotion will take place on Thursday, October 23, 2008 at www.lhw.com/1928. The sale will begin at 2:00 p.m. GMT (10 a.m. in New York, 7:00 a.m. in Los Angeles, 3:00 p.m. in London, and 11:00 p.m. in Tokyo) and will last for a total of 80 minutes. The above URL will become active 24 hours prior to the launch. Should you try to visit the URL before then, you will be redirected to this status page.

In order to help you prepare for the event, we would like to give you some helpful information on the format of the sale:

1. When you arrive at the dedicated site, you will not be asked to register or log-in. For legal reasons and in adherence to the original Terms & Conditions, we are unable to restrict any individuals from participating in this global offer.
2. Participants will be required to complete a travel request form, available exclusively at the dedicated site. Submission of this online form within the 80-minute promotion interval is the only way to potentially secure one of the 6,000 room nights that are available at the USD 19.28 rate.
3. Forms will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Your requests will be fulfilled based on availability. Please remember that rooms and available dates vary among participating hotels.
4. We will only accept and process one travel request form per household (rooms are based on double-occupancy); duplicate forms will be disqualified and discarded.
5. Within seven days, you will be notified via email whether or not your reservation request was fulfilled. If your reservation has been secured, you will receive an automatically-generated confirmation from The Leading Hotels of the World. Please print a copy of this confirmation as you will need to present it to reception upon your arrival at the hotel along with proof of identity.

Things To Know In Advance Of The Sale About The Travel Request Form:

• You will be asked for your contact information including name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address. At no point will you be asked to provide credit card information.
• You will have a chance to submit your top three hotel choices with two possible arrival dates for each. In order to familiarize yourself with the participating hotels, please peruse the list below.
• You will be required to review and accept the sale’s Terms & Conditions, highlighted prominently on the travel request form, prior to submitting your travel request.

  Participating Hotels in Africa South Africa The Table Bay Hotel (Cape Town) Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa (Knysna) Participating Hotels in Asia & Pacific Hong Kong The Langham, Hong Kong (Kowloon) Indonesia The Legian (Bali) Korea The Shilla Seoul (Seoul) Malaysia The Club at The Saujana (Shah Alam) Myanmar The Strand (Yangon) Taiwan, R.O.C. The Sherwood Taipei (Taipei) Thailand Banyan Tree Bangkok (Bangkok) The Chedi Chiang Mai (Chiang Mai) Bo Phut Resort & Spa (Koh Samui, Suratthani) Santiburi Golf Resort & Spa (Koh Samui, Suratthani) Vietnam The Nam Hai (Quang Nam Province) Participating Hotels in Caribbean Dominican Republic Tortuga Bay (Punta Cana) St. Lucia Discovery at Marigot Bay (Marigot) Participating Hotels in Central & South America Argentina Alvear Palace Hotel (Buenos Aires) Brazil Pestana Convento do Carmo Hotel (Salvador) Ecuador Royal Palm Hotel Galapagos (Galapagos Islands) Hotel Oro Verde (Guayaquil) Venezuela Gran Meliá Caracas Suites and Conference Center (Caracas) Participating Hotels in North America Canada Château Bonne Entente (Quebec, Québec) Mexico Presidente Intercontinental Cozumel Resort & Spa (Cozumel) Marquis Los Cabos (Los Cabos) Hotel Habita (Mexico City) Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort (Nuevo Vallarta) Paraiso de la Bonita Resort & Thalasso (Riviera Maya) United States Enchantment Resort & Mii amo Spa (Sedona, Arizona) Bernardus Lodge (Carmel Valley, California) The Hay-Adams (Washington, DC) Biltmore (Coral Gables, Florida) The James Chicago (Chicago, Illinois) Wheatleigh (Lenox, Massachusetts) La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa, A Rock Resort (Santa Fe, New Mexico) The Alex Hotel (New York, New York)

  Participating Hotels in Europe Austria Hotel Loipersdorf Spa & Conference (Loipersdorf) Cyprus Amathus Beach Hotel Limassol (Limassol) Amathus Beach Hotel Paphos (Paphos) Anassa (Polis) Czech Republic Hotel Le Palais Prague (Prague) Estonia Schloessle Hotel (Tallinn) France Hotel Raphael (Paris) Germany Hotel Adlon Kempinski (Berlin) Kempinski Hotel Bristol Berlin (Berlin) Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg (Cologne/Bergisch Gladbach) Schlosshotel Hugenpoet (Essen-Kettwig) Hotel Hessischer Hof (Frankfurt am Main) Schlosshotel Kronberg (Frankfurt am Main) Hotel Nassauer Hof (Wiesbaden) Hotel Atlantic Kempinski Hamburg (Hamburg) Hungary Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest (Budapest) New York Palace Boscolo, Budapest (Budapest) Ireland Killarney Park Hotel (Killarney) Italy Hotel Santa Caterina (Amalfi) Grand Hotel Baglioni (Bologna) Palazzo Arzaga Hotel Spa & Golf Resort (Brescia) L'Andana (Castiglione della Pescaia) Villa D'Este (Cernobbio) Grand Hotel Villa Medici (Florence) Hotel Regency (Florence) Villa La Massa (Florence) Carlton Hotel Baglioni (Milan) Grand Hotel et de Milan (Milan) Grand Hotel Miramare (Portofino) Hotel Lord Byron (Rome) Grand Hotel Palazzo della Fonte, Rome (Fiuggi) Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf (Saturnia) Kempinski Hotel Giardino di Costanza (Mazara del Vallo (Sicily)) Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria (Sorrento) Bauer Hotel (Venice) Bauer "II Palazzo" (Venice) Luna Hotel Baglioni (Venice) San Clemente Palace Hotel & Resort (Venice) Byblos Art Hotel Villa Amista (Corrubbio Di San Pietro In Cariano) Netherlands Hotel de l'Europe (Amsterdam) Portugal Vila Vita Parc (Algarve) Hotel Quinta do Lago (Algarve) Grand Real Villa Italia Hotel & Spa (Cascais) Bairro Alto Hotel (Lisbon) Russia The Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow (Moscow) The Taleon Imperial Hotel (St. Petersburg) Spain Gran Hotel La Florida (Barcelona) Hotel Rey Juan Carlos I (Barcelona) Fairplay Golf Hotel & Spa (Benalup-Casas Viejas (Cadiz)) Silken Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao (Bilbao) Barceló La Bobadilla (Loja/Granada) Hotel Puente Romano (Marbella) Sweden Grand Hôtel Stockholm (Stockholm) Switzerland Tschuggen Grand Hotel (Arosa) Hotel Eden Roc, Ascona (Ascona) Grand Hotel Quellenhof (Bad Ragaz) Waldhaus Grand Hotel & Spa (Flims) Hotel d'Angleterre (Geneva) Carlton Hotel (St. Moritz) The Dolder Grand (Zurich) United Kingdom (UK) Baglioni London (London, England) The Langham, London (London, England) The Gleaneagles Hotel (Perthshire, Scotland)

  Last updated: Friday October 17 2008, 2330 GMT

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  Since enlisting the services of Akamai Technologies, Inc. last Friday, we have made significant progress with the technological redesign of the USD 19.28 Sale. With the majority of the newly-built system completed, we are approaching the final launch phase of this project. Tomorrow, we are performing the "User Acceptance Testing" (aka our internal "dress rehearsal") in order to ensure that your customer experience is pleasant.

  We will be posting further details on the actual sale this Friday, October 17 after 4 pm GMT (12 noon Eastern Daylight Time). Please check back here at that time. Thank you!

  Last updated: Thursday October 16 2008, 0030 GMT

  ---

  On Friday, October 10, we engaged Akamai Technologies, Inc., the world premier web content delivery network, to provide the technology solution for this endeavor. Together we are working diligently to finalize a technologically redesigned promotion whereby you will have a chance to secure one of the originally allotted 6,000 room nights available at the rate of USD 19.28.

  The proposed solution maintains some of the same elements of the previous sale; however, it will follow a different format. Those elements include:

  • The promotion will take place exclusively online at a dedicated time and will last for 80 minutes.
  • All of the participating hotels (nearly 100 Leading Hotels) remain the same.
  • Requests for accommodations will be fulfilled on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Travel dates are strictly between the promotional time period of November 1 to December 15, 2008.
  • The number of rooms and the available dates for travel vary among the participating hotels.

  We plan to announce the details and instructions of the new USD 19.28 promotion no later than Friday, October 17, 2008. In the meantime, please check back here for related news at your leisure. Any updates will indicate the date and time of posting. Details of the promotion will be posted at least 48 hours before the sale begins.

  Last updated: Monday October 13 2008, 0001 GMT

In Case You Missed It: Dinner Party Prep

Here's my latest from StoreAdore.com, talking about the dinner party I'm planning for Friday.

Say Yum: Cofee Cuppings at Caffe Pronto

One of Deacon's fave spots to grab a cup-o-joe is a bit of a jaunt from DC. When we're not banging away on our MacBook at Murky Coffee, we're tucked into a leather chair at Caffe Pronto in Annapolis.

So if you're headed to sailboat city for the weekend (plenty of shopping there, see my StoreAdore and Washingtonian guides) be sure to stop by for one of their new "Cupping Labs," taking place every Friday from 2-3 pm.

The staff of master roasters, cuppers and baristas leads the session, where you'll learn about individual coffee types, tasting techniques, and try new coffees from the prestigious Cup of Excellence Competitions.

But just in case you can't make it to naptown for the tasting, here's a short list of my top local coffee shops in DC:

Murky Coffee - Clarendon
Grape + Bean - Old Town
Peregrine Espresso - Eastern Market
SoVa - Atlas District

You're Invited: Care for Kids at Zelaya

Welcome back to You're Invited, our regular series detailing upcoming events in town. Thursday, join one of our fave shoe shops, Zelaya (next door to one of our fave clothing shops, Daisy Too) during their "Care for Kids" kickoff cocktail.

Splurge vs. Steal: Black Clutch

Welcome to Deacon's new plaything, Splurge vs. Steal. A true shopper knows when a bargain buy is a no-brainer (thank you Loehmanns, Filenes, and TJ Maxx) but the true beauty is knowing when cheap-chic is worth the purchase or just misses its designer inspiration.

So check out our first Splurge v. Steal of the week. We'd say this a no-brainer, but want your opinion.

Are you the splurge or the steal?

Steve Madden black faux snakeskin clutch, on sale for $27 at Macys.






OR



Lauren Merkin's "Eve" faux croc in black patent, $180 at Lauren Merkin.com

In Case You Missed It: Hello to Art and Soul

TGIF! Deacon's trying hard to avoid making this blog into a "where you can see and be seen" review ... I mean, isn't there more than enough of that on Pamela's Punch?

But we spent last night at the Art and Soul opening at the new Affinia Hotel on Capitol Hill and must say, it was event worthy of your attendance... and our blogging.

One of my fave PR firms (Hisaoka) partnered with some of the best ladies in town (those at the Corcoran) for great opening event that also served as pre-party for the up-and-coming Fall Fete at the Corcoran next weekend. If you haven't bought your tickets yet, do so ASAP.

We enjoyed small bites (OMG, the mac-n-cheese balls were to die for) courtesy of Art Smith and Ryan Morgan as well as cocktails like the "Front Porch," a sweet yet kickin' blend of vodka, sweet tea, simple syrup, mint and lemon zest.

Art and Soul (you saw our JuliB review, right?) aims to serve comfort food with a southern-ish twist, and we were pleasantly surprised by even the small offerings we tried ... think Southern Ham wrapped shrimp (or barbecue marinated varieties for those who don't do meat), salmon and caviar on potato bites, mini crab cakes with lemon tartar sauce, tiny beef tenderloin sandwiches on amazing house-made rolls, and of course ... the aforementioned mac n-cheese balls. Okay, we'll admit it, we overindulged a bit on those.

Art lovers got a great preview of the Corcoran's ongoing Richard Avedon exhibit in a private back room with flat screen TVs broadcasting images from the exhibit. Plus, those who found the room didn't want to miss a minute of the "mini" themed dessert table- carmel apple puddings, peanut butter chocolates, cupcakes and even mini dipped apples. YUM.

The space was beautiful (see photos below) and overall we can't wait to make it back for dinner ... or a hotel stay, thanks to the gratis coupon that came in our press bag at the end of the night.

Let's just say we're moving a little slowly this morning ....



(From Left to right, Kristin Guiter of the Corcoran, Rachel Cothran of Project Beltway, Barrett Evans of IBM, and Sarah Beth of the Corcoran)

In Other News: Happy Birthday, Candles off Main!

Check this StoreAdore.com listing for deets on Candles Off Main's third birthday celebration. It's our favorite spot in Annapolis for candles, especially the impossible-to-find Scent of Scandal ones. We've permanently got the "Walk of Shame" (smell: early morning dew) burning during our morning showers - it's the perfect wake-up smell.

In Case You Missed It: Cozy in Cashmere

Brrr, it's cold in here. Deacon's warm (he's wearing fur, after all) but McLean is chilled to the bone. Check our latest StoreAdore.com post on where to find cuddly cashmere. (The one at left is from ShopBop.com)

In Case You Missed It: DailyCandy Weekend Guide

Are your weekend plans still up in the air? Get on it, girlfriend ... and we've got the perfect solution. Check out our latest edition of the DailyCandy Weekend Guide.

xoxo, Deacon

In Other News: Bluefly.com says "I do" to wedding apparel

Okay, so Bluefly.com is nothing new, but in the wake of the crazy "members only" clubs like Gilt Groupe, Haute Look, and Rue La La, it's nice to have a discount shopping site that you can log in whenever you want.

Deacon isn't going to be in a wedding anytime soon, but that doesn't stop us from browsing (or having a subscription to Martha Stewart Weddings as "research" for our ReMarriage and Washingtonian Bride and Groom writings).

So we're duly noting Bluefly's new Wedding 2.0 site, where you can browse by "In the Wedding" or "At the Wedding" with categories like honeymoon apparel, mother of the bride, bridesmaid, or accessories. Guests can peruse based on the wedding's dress code: civil ceremony, destination, semi formal or black tie.

The biggest problem we can see is the sizes selling out before your maids get to them.

Great idea. Now if only they can eliminate that shipping charge, a la Piperlime.com.

You're Invited: Cardio for the Cure at Equinox

There are tons of breast cancer awareness events this month, so I'm trying to be selective in what I post. This event looks like a good one - and Equinox is pretty enough that it's worth the drive. Just wish it wasn't in Tysons so that it made sense to join ... would be nice for SC/LA to have some competition around here!

In Other News: My (unbelievable) Friday Experience

If you asked someone what I'd most like to magically appear in front of me on a silver platter, they'd likely answer "shoes" or "chocolate." Friday afternoon, I got both.

My good friend Sarah and I were going for a late-afternoon catch up walk from our apartments down to Clarendon, when we saw a strange sight in the distance -- a gigantic truck, with glass walls. It appeared to be filled with ... was it ... yes! shoes! As we edged closer, we saw racks upon racks of glorious designer pumps - Kate Spade, Juicy Couture, Calvin Klein, Nine West and more ... it was the cheap-chic Marshalls rack of my dreams.

Relatively attractive men circled us with even more shoes on silver platter, offering us tempting coupons and chocolate. There was even a gigantic lipstick red high heel on a motorcycle.

Don't worry, at this point, we pinched ourselves. And then the magic words were uttered: "would you two like a foot massage?"

Normally I'm not one to disrobe in public, but this experience wouldn't allow itself to be passed. We each plunked down into a massage chair (you know, the $6K kind from Brookstone that you always want to try ... but don't because that would be disgusting after every other slob in the mall has done the same?) and settled in for a 15 minute session with individual therapists. Thank you, Chris, for soothing the pain of being cramped into three-inch heels for a week.

Now I've told this story to a few people (namely my mother and boyfriend) who both laughed and asked if I was dreaming. Let's be frank, I'd ask a friend the same thing. But I swear, it's true.

Look for a floating Marshall's shoe shop near you.

Caveat 1: You can't buy the shoes. They're glued in. Believe me, I tried.
Caveat 2: Most Marshalls aren't that good. But I did see a few pair that I'd tried on, and even one I'd bought earlier this season.

In Other News: Fashion For Change

Even if you're not an Obama girl or guy, you've got to give Barack credit for mobilizing legions of people, young and old, to his cause. It seems that even designers like Juicy Couture, Vera Wang, and Tracey Reese have taken up his message of hope, designing limited edition clothing pieces with his campaign messages.

While I'm not one to wear my political beliefs across my chest, I do think it's pretty awesome the way this man has managed to motivate the masses, particularly my own generation.

So if you are an Obama fan, at least be a stylish one ... check out these new designer duds from "Runway to Change."


I'll state for the record that I'm a registered Republican, and this post in no way endorses any set of political beliefs.

You're Invited: Pink is the New Black

What can be better than 20% off at Urban Chic? 20% off when 5% of the proceeds go to charity, that's what. Sip bubbly and enjoy gratis apps October 16th (Thursday!) during their third annual benefit for the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

We'll sadly be elsewhere (the Art&Soul opening) but it's definitely a worthwhile event. Best of all, you can visit either the Georgetown or Bethesda locales for your discount.

(Can't make it? FYI ... print this StoreAdore coupon to get 20% off any time you like).

Say Yum: Cocktails for a Cause

If you've never been to Old Town's favorite bar, PX, here's a hint ... it's only open when the blue light is on.

So make your reservations now for a special evening where you're guaranteed to get in the door - the "5 for $50," a cocktail benefit for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Todd Thrasher has brought together five of his best friends and partners in cocktail crime: Tad Carducci (Tippling Brothers), Eric Felten (Wall Street Journal spirits writer), Charlotte Voisey (Hendrick’s Brand Champion and mixologist for William Grant & Sons), Derek Brown (Komi, Cocktail Ambassador to New Orleans Cocktail Museum) and H. Joseph Ehrmann (Elixir bar in San Francisco) for an evening of cocktails and carryin’ on.

$50 gets you five different drinks and a "cocktail magic show." The show begins every 30 minutes when one of the savvy tastemakers takes the bar over at PX creating their cocktail for the evening.

Hey bartender - make mine a double.

November 9th, 6 PM - 10 PM. (PX is above Eamonn’s A Dublin Chipper). Please R.S.V.P to Host Clinton Terry at Clinton@restauranteve.com. Include in the Subject Line - ‘Swank Party.’

Deacon Says: Barktoberfest! Finally an event I can attend.

Finally, an event I can sink my teeth into. Your regular "Deacon Says" weekly guide is taking a break for the long weekend (you've seen plenty of ideas in the October Picks from JuliB) ... but there's one last- minute event we just can't miss.

Art and Soul (stay tuned for blogs from their media opening next week) is hosting Barktoberfest next weekend, October 18. Invite below.

Say Yum: Fall Cocktails at Park Hyatt

Despite a wee overindulgence earlier in the week, Deacon is still thinking TGIF and preparing for a jam-packed long weekend of shopping, visits from college friends, and of course, hot activities. Stay tuned a for the weekly "Deacon Says" column, coming later today.

But since it's past noon and officially into Friday's acceptable cocktail hour, we thought to give you a preview ... in the form of a peek at the Park Hyatt's new fall cocktail list.

I'm super excited about the Apple White Sangria, made with Big Apple Wine from Wolffer Bridgehampton and Tito Handmade Vodka (Texas), garnished with fresh apples. Deacon and M went wine tasting at the vineyard where Big Apple is made two weeks ago and bought a bottle to take home - it's great on its own ... light and fruity. The vodka should give it a good kick, as the alcohol content is pretty low on its own.

I'm also excited to try the Apple Pie Bellini and Pumpkin Martini, both of which are chock-full of fall flavors and fresh ingredients.

But perhaps the coolest thing is their new American Martini Sampler, where guests can sample a variety of American-made vodkas, each with different distilling processes and base ingredients.

If you've tried any of the new drinks, leave a note and let us know how you think they are.

Mark Your Calendars: Simply Soles opens first location Nov. 1

SimplySoles.com, one of our fave online shoe shopping destinations (and home of locally-designed Lillybee shoes) is opening their first brick-and-mortar location on November 1 in Columbia Heights.

It's just two blocks from the metro, 1438 Park Road NW.

We're of course excited for Kassie's first venture, and really hope it works out. After all ... this economy seems to encourage women to CLOSE their shops and head online, not vice versa.

So head out and support local designers ... Deacon gives this one his paw print of approval.

Say Yum: Cocktail Classes at EatBar

I've always wanted to take a bar tending class. Note I said "take a class" and not actually tend bar - I'd probably spill as much as I served and can't stand annoying drunks.

Which leads me to this amazing information crossing my inbox: one of my favorite mixologists, Gina Chersevani (of EatBar) is hosting a series of cocktail classes ...and they're less than a mile from my apartment!

Starting October 15, the hour long classes will teach participants how to use bar tools, create signature cocktails and pair the concoctions with food. (Each class also comes with snacks crafted by Executive Chef Andrew Markert).

At the end of each class, you'll go home with recipe cards and a jar of house-made bar garnish, (critical for further recreations).

Each class is an hour long and $48, or $220 for all five.

The schedule is below ... Deacon's deciding between the Witches Brew, Holidays Over Ice, or New Years classes ... leave a note to let us know which one you think we should attend!

EatBar’s Cocktail Class Schedule

October 15

Stocking the Home Bar

The Showdown: Gin vs. Vodka

October 29

Witches’ Brew

Contorted Concoctions

November 12

Thank God for Wild Turkey

Bourbons & Brines

December 3

Holidays Over Ice

Pairing Cocktails with Food

Easy Elegant Entertaining for a Crowd

December 17

A Toast to Remembering New Year’s

New Year Cocktails to Remember All Year

Champagne Cocktail Kit—Glasses, Garnishes and Champagne

Say Yum: Urbana

K and I had the chance to dine last night at Urbana, Hotel Palomar's hot restaurant. I'd never been, but what better excuse than the restaurant's new executive chef, Alex Bollinger. While I'm normally not much for hotel restaurants, (they're underwhelming and overpriced as a general rule) ... Urbana was a definitely pleasant surprise.

It's a "cozy" space, as K describes it - blue/gray lighting, intimate seating, and a subterranean setup that feels comforting, not confining. To quote her again, "this would be the perfect place to go when it rains!"

Highlights:

• the "focaccetta" - cross between foccacia and bruschetta with mozzarella and prosciutto. YUM.
• butternut squash ravioli - sweet, rich and filling, but not gratuitously overwhelmingly.
  
• halibut with asparagus faro "risotto" - a perfect compliment of flavors.
  
• our fabulous and conscientious server. Thank you!
  

Overall, a great experience. I'll definitely be back.

You're Invited: Teen Vogue Young Hollywood Launch Party

Thank you, CUSP, for considering your Georgetown location important enough to host a launch event for Teen Vogue's Young Hollywood issue. Remember the episode of The Hills when Lauren and Whitney planned the New York fashion show launch party? Yeah, it's one of our faves.

Deacon will sadly be out of town, but do let us know if you attend ... this sounds like a fun time!

You're Invited: Blondes Vs. Brunettes

It's the charity football game of the year - the 4th annual Blondes Vs. Brunettes tournament.
Cheer on your favorite team (Brunettes, naturally) as you watch them go 5-0 against the Blondes. (Can you guess which team I'm on??)

It's a full day of fun. Turn out for the pre-party (Hudson), the main event (the game), the victory lap (BreadSoda), victory meal (Town Hall) or victory dance (Gin and Tonic). You may even score a touchdown ... if you're lucky.

What: DC's hottest blondes and brunettes in full-contact flag football
Why: Raising money for Alzheimer's research
When: November 8, 2008
Where: Francis Field, 25th and I Sts. (West End).