Favorite Things: Oscar Looks

Va Va Voom! This year's Oscars red carpet wowed with a number of hits and very few (in our humble opinion) misses, except whatwasshethinking Amy Adams with that necklace and Reese (oh man we love you and hate to do this) what is UP with your hair?

Red was the color of the night (we'd love to wear this look to a wedding this weekend but don't you kind of look like a hooker off the red carpet?) and emeralds were everywhere, although, strangely, their usual champion, Angelina Jolie, was not.

The usual suspects looked fab (yes, we're seeing you Halle Berry, you haven't aged a bit) and some looked dramatically slimmer (although Jennifer Hudson could have used some sort of bra). Gwyneth looked stunning in metallic, although we still can't figure out why she suddenly thinks she's a singer and refuses to walk the carpet with her hot husband. Mandy Moore, where did YOU come from, I can haz your dress, no? And little Haliee Steinfeld, we love you. Marchesa! At such a young age. You. Rocked. It. Cate Blanchett - I haven't yet decided on your dress (was it circling your boobs?) but your hair! Oh, if I hadn't just spent the past year growing mine out ... I'd be in the salon tomorrow. Natalie Portman, to borrow the words of our favorite Sassy Gay Friend, you stupid bitch (love ya!). You look even hotter pregnant. And Mila Kunis, well, we'd become a lesbian for you too. Even if purple is our least favorite color.

And, in case you've been living under a rock for the past 12 hours, here are our favorite looks, in slide show form. Because we know some of you depend on Deacon for allllll of your news :-)

Fridays Fancies: Game Time

Deacon has a hot date at the Capitals game tonight, so we're playing along with our new feature, Friday's Fancies, by designing our perfect "I look like I like sports but goddamnit I'm still a stylish female" outfit. Enjoy:

Marc by Marc Jacobs Ruffle Tank, $47,  Bluefly.com. 

BB Dakota leather jacket, $225, ShopBop

Prada Cap Toe Sneaker, $295, Neiman Marcus.com

JBrand 901 Legging Jean in Starless, $169, NationalJeanCompany.com

Recap: Nigel Barker in DC

Celebrity fashion photographer and America's Next Top Model judge Nigel Barker was out and about in D.C. yesterday, meeting with dignitaries and promoting his newest book Nigel Barker's Beauty Equation.

Later in the evening, Nigel hosted an invite-only exclusive event at I Street lounge Eden with co-owners Vinoda Basnayake, Andre De Moya, Charles Zhou and Kunal Shah. Nigel took to the floor to discuss the inspiration behind his latest endeavor, Nigel Barker's Beauty Equation, a guide to inner beauty that breaks down today's notions of what's beautiful.

Guests enjoyed passed hors d'oeuvres and drinks, while lining up to meet with the famed photographer. Bravo Real Housewives of D.C.'s Lynda Erkiletian, FOX 5's Will Thomas, Luxxery's Hiba Hakki, Andre Wells Events' Andre Wells, KStreetKate's Kate Michael, Design Army's Pum Lefebure and ABC 7's Natasha Barrett were among the evening's guests. Nigel capped the night with a late dinner at seafood hotspot Hook in Georgetown with a few friends, ordering the restaurant's Ahi Tuna entree.

Mark Your Calendars: Urban Chic Bridal Event

Calling all brides-to-be (we're looking at you, I Do, DC) ... Urban Chic is hosting their annual bridal event on March 18th and 19th and we wanted to share the inside scoop. Oh, and we'll happily accompany our lovely engaged friends ... Deacon loves shopping of any kind :-)

You'll enjoy a Shoshanna trunk show specifically tailored to wedding looks (20% off bridesmaid dresses adds added incentive) ... and don't forget to print this "save the date" - you'll get extra discounts with your purchase!

Already bought those big day dresses? Never fear, the consultants will also be on hand to help you pick out clothes for everything from the rehearsal dinner to the honeymoon! Naturally, bubbly and treats will also be served.

In Case You Missed It: Should You Go Out With Someone You're Not Attracted To?

It's a hot button issue (not just a DC one, either). When we first posed the question to friends several weeks ago, they weighed in in droves - and not shockingly, all of the men of our acquaintance said "hell no." Still, we pursued this topic in the interest of journalism ... and came up with this:

"Should You Go Out With Someone You're Not Attracted To?" - Our Latest, on GalTime.com.

Jetset: Travel Healthy with Kimpton

Palomar DC, one of the properties offering the program.

Earlier this month, Deacon made a quick jaunt to the Big Apple for meetings, meetings, and more meetings. While we were certainly excited for upcoming business ventures, one of the things we hate most about spending so much time on the road is the havoc it can wreak on our waistlines and workout routines. Being on-the-go often means skipping our daily gym sessions and eating out (and much later) than we normally would.

While there's absolutely nothing wrong with splurging every now and again, our jetsetting lifestyle means we're on the go a lot - which is why we were particularly intrigued when we found out about one of our favorite brand's new healthy travel initiatives. Kimpton's  new "Travel Healthy" program is offered in conjunction with Joy Bauer, Today Show regular and Kimpton's wellness correspondent.

When you book a room at participating hotels (the program is slowly being rolled out across the chain), you'll get access to dedicated videos on demand, in-room fitness equipment like a hula hoop, jump rope, yoga mat and resistance bands, plus in-room dining options with low-calorie healthy options for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

What really made us happy? The “Travel Healthy” in-room meals are offered all day (meaning you don't have to limit yourself to just dinner) and offer a wide array of flavors and options, all under 500 calories. Our favorites? The hearty oatmeal and rich turkey burger.

Healthy Option: Yogurt Parfait

Bauer also stars in Kimpton's four new “Travel Healthy” short in-room videos titled Healthy Breakfast, High Energy Snacks, Tips for the “Morning After” and In-Room Workout. In the videos, travelers are encouraged to pick nutrition-packed foods to start the day or to refuel later; hear advice on shaking off a late-night of overindulgence; and get a boost of energy from a quick workout without having to leave the guest room. While we admit that we'd normally bypass the "how to" videos, they were interesting - particularly the morning after one....

But our favorite part? Having our workout at the touch of a button. In addition to the brand's already-standard 24-hour yoga channel, complimentary yoga mats, pilates classes and meditation classes on-demand, several hotels in the brand also offer full-service spas and outdoor or group exercise classes.

70 Park Avenue Hotel

We opted to stay at New York's 70 Park Avenue during our most recent trip. Eventi, the brand's newest NYC property, also offers the program, as does DC and Arlington's Hotel Palomar. 70 Park, while one of the brand's older properties, offered the same high-quality Kimpton service and exceptionally friendly hotel staff. The rooms were spacious (incredibly so, by New York standards) and the fitness equipment was already waiting for us upon arrival, as well as a copy of Bauer's "Slim and Scrumptious" healthy cookbook. While we probably would have preferred a healthy living magazine, we have to admit the recipes looked good.

It had been quite the stressful day, so after a long soak in the tub, we busted out the yoga mat and opted for a short stretching sequence to wind down before heading to bed. Would we have taken the time to otherwise go for a run? Never. But given the convenience - it was all right there - and the ease of use, it was hard NOT to want to work out.

And let's just face it - when the choice to be healthy is an easy one... we're all about it. Overall, we'd highly recommend a stay at Kimpton to anyone looking to hit the road - whether fitness is a primary goal or not, it's always better to live a healthy lifestyle when you can. Particularly if that healthy lifestyle comes in a chic boutique hotel package.

Our visit was sponsored by Kimpton Hotels. The author's opinions, however, are 100% her own.

Favorite Things: La Belle France

La Belle France's First Limited-Edition Poster

If one of Deacon's favorite things is travel, he's most in love with Europe's history-filled romantic cities. France is full of many such towns - which is why today's Favorite Things award goes to none other than fabulous monthly newsletter La Belle France, a well-respected travel newsletter with more than a quarter century of history. It's all about the country's luxury hotels, fine dining, wine and travel.

Which is why we're super excited to report that this great news is now available online and more readily accessible to the world. Even better? To celebrate the launch, they commissioned super-hip Philadelphia based artist collective The Heads Of State (another Deacon fave) to design a beautiful, limited edition, hand screened, signed and number travel poster print. We're always on the hunt for great travel-related finds to decorate our home, and the four posters they're releasing are definitely going to be part of our new collection.

Priced at just $45 each, these prints are limited to quantities of 500 (hand-signed and numbered), meaning you'll truly be purchasing a unique find. We can't wait to snatch up the first print, of ski town Megeve.


We'll be sure to post the others as they arrive - but in the meantime, hie thee to La Belle France!


Have a product, service or outlet that you think should be considered for one of Deacon's Favorite Things? Send us an e-mail to deacondoesdc@gmail.com.

You're Invited: Oscar Party at The Jefferson

From the initial red carpet sashay to the golden Oscar wins, the elegance of the Academy Awards will once again captivate us on Feb. 27. The Jefferson is hosting a special party in Quill lounge, where Best Picture-inspired libations and special seating options will provide the perfect backdrop for the ultimate Oscar party.

Starting at 6 p.m., the bar will be serving $15 signature cocktails based on the Best Picture nominees. Care for a more luxe option? Reserved seating with premier TV viewing can be booked for $95 per person in Quill Lounge or the private East and West Jefferson Cabinet Rooms. These intimate, living room-style Cabinets, seating four and six people respectively, feature private flat screen TVs, a movie-inspired Quill cocktail, glass of Rose Champagne, and special tapas platter including a bowl of truffled popcorn, mini caviar tacos, foie gras bon-bons and mini “gold-plated” chili-cheese dogs.

Those who prefer to watch the Academy Awards from the comforts of home can try their hand at one of Quill’s Best Picture-inspired cocktails. Drinks and ingredients follow:

127 HOURS: “On The Rocks” – 1.5 oz. High West Rocky Mountain Rye Whisky, Angostura bitters, white sugar, orange zest and house-infused allspice cherries.

BLACK SWAN: “Black & White Margarita” – 3 lime wedges muddled, 2 tsp white sugar, ∏ oz. Cointreau, 1.25 oz. white tequila, ∏ oz. house-made aloe vera juice and double salt-rim of black Hawaiian salt and thyme-lemongrass infused salt.

INCEPTION: “Inception Martini” – 1 dash chartreuse verte, one dash chartreuse jaune, π oz. absinthe, 1 oz. Heavy Water Vodka, 1 oz. Blue Coat Gin and flamed orange zest.

THE KING’S SPEECH: “The King’s Crown” – ≤ oz. Crown Royal Black, ≤ oz. Kahlua Coffee Liquor, 0.33 oz. vanilla-orange flavored cream and orange flakes.

THE FIGHTER: “The Blueberry Punch” – Fresh cut lime cubes, fresh cut orange cubes, 1 tsp organic brown sugar, rum (aged a minimum of eight years), fresh blueberries and homemade ginger-orange powder.

THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT: “Rose Indulgence” – 0.33 oz. raspberry puree, 0.33 oz. strawberry puree, 1 drop rose essence, 2.5 oz. Gosset Rose Champagne and rose pate de fruit pairing.

THE SOCIAL NETWORK: “Modern Cosmopolitan” – 2 lime wedges, 2 tsp white sugar, 1 oz. house-infused hibiscus flower-lemongrass-chili vodka, 0.33 oz. Cointreau Noir, ≤ oz. cranberry juice and prosecco.

TOY STORY 3: “Nutella Manhattan” – 2 dashes sweet vermouth, 2 drops Xocolatl bitters, 4 drops Angostura bitters, 1.5 oz. Nutella-infused vodka and ≤ oz. Barrel Proof Bourbon.

TRUE GRIT: “Horse’s Neck” – 2 oz. A. de Fussigny Cognac, orange zest, soda and crushed ice.

WINTER’S BONE: “Blackthorn Cocktail” – 2 oz. sloe gin, 1 oz. sweet vermouth, dash Angostura bitters, lemon peel garnish

In Case You Missed It: Cherry Blossom 10 Miler Tips

Everything you needed to know, via our latest on AOL Travel.

In Case You Missed It: The Chatwal's Ultimate Academy Awards Package

Deets via Luxist.

Mark Your Calendars: Spring 2011 District Sample Sale Tickets On Sale Tuesday

Fashionistas, look out - tix for the annual District Sample Sale, this spring taking place on March 29th, go on sale Tuesday. The event, now staging at 2010 L Street NW (a new location!) will take place from 5:30 - 9:30 PM and will benefit the E.L. Haynes Public Charter School.
Participating boutiques will include Urban Chic, Ginger, Julia Farr, The Shoe Hive, Wink, Caramel, Sherman Pickey and Hysteria, and Baltimore’s Babe, Cupcake and Poppy & Stella.




Also returning will be our fave blowout station from One80 Salon. (They make us so happy ... make an appointment today).

Want to hear more about the sale? We've covered it every year. Buy VIP tickets, get in line early, and enjoy the fun!

Jetset: And We're Off

Readers, it's time to seek advice. Our paws are going to be on the road quite a bit in the next few months and we'd love to know if you have any advice for must-see places:


We'll be in ...

NASHVILLE

Tin Pan South, here we come! 

CHARLESTON

Our dear dear friends are celebrating their marriage. 

MONTANA

Get jealous. We'll be "glamping" at the fabulous Paws Up Resort. 

SEATTLE

Our blonde better half is moving. Anything we need to see?

Mark Your Calendars: Meet the President(s)

We covered the gallery of the prez at Madam Tussauds back a few months ago on Gadling, but the big day is finally here (tomorrow). Check out the new exhibit - and the Presidential Welcome Committee at Union Station, above.

Jetset: Shape Up, Beach Bums with a Yoga Retreat at Cieba Del Mar

One of Deacon's new passions is fabulous fitness - avoiding the tried-and-true of the basic gym routine in favor of new and exciting ways to stay in shape. Which is part of the reason we're sort of dying to head to luxury Mexican resort Cieba del Mar to participate in their Sun, Sea, and Fat-Burning Fun fitness program, March 13-17, or A Seaside Celebration of Life’s Sweetness yoga retreat, March 27-31.

Sure, yoga is nothing new, but doing it in such a beautiful environment adds an element of fun that can't be dampened even as we swear our way through the series because we're not nearly as flexible as those other skinny biatches so effortlessly pretzeling themselves in their itty bitty Lululemon outfits.  Check out the itineraries:

Sun, Sea and Fat-Burning Fun: March 13-17, 2011
Shape up, slim down and sweat under the sun at this fitness and health event hosted by Rita Treiger, founder and editor-in-chief of Fit Yoga Magazine, and led by nationally-ranked triathlete, fitness expert and aerobics star Bobbi Nigro. Included in the package:

• Health and fitness program, including Zip-lining through the jungle, touring the Mayan ruins of Tulum, and a Temezcal Ceremony, a contemporary spa therapy inspired by an ancient Maya purifying ritual;
• Four nights of luxury ocean-view accommodation;
• All meals and beverages by the glass, including beer, wine and liquor;
• Use of land and sea sports equipment, including bicycles and tennis courts, kayaks and snorkel equipment;
• Access to the fitness center and facilities at the Spa at Ceiba del Mar;
• Wireless high-speed Internet;
• Airport transfers to and from the resort; and
• All taxes and gratuities.


A Seaside Celebration of Life’s Sweetness: March 27-31, 2011
Join Anusara yoga star Bernadette Birney, and hosts Donna Kuebler and Bruce Bassock, for a week of Madhurya: Honey, Chocolate and Yoga at this seaside yoga retreat that will emphasize spiritually-connected physical practice, meditative inquiry and indulgent self-care. Included in package:

• Seven yoga sessions and four sessions of morning meditation;
• Four nights of luxury accommodation;
• All meals and beverages by the glass, including beer, wine and liquor;
• Use of land and sea sports equipment, including bicycles and tennis courts, kayaks and snorkel equipment;
• Access to the fitness center at the Spa at Ceiba del Mar;
• A Temezcal Ceremony, a contemporary spa therapy inspired by an ancient Maya cleansing ritual;
• Wireless high-speed Internet;
• Airport transfers to and from the resort;
• All taxes and gratuities.

Rates for both luxury retreats start at $1893 for double occupancy, $2393 for single occupancy of a Deluxe Room, Jr. Suite, Master Suite, or Penthouse. Rates for a non-participant sharing accommodation with a registered retreater start at $1563. Retreaters attending either event also will receive 15% off spa treatments not included in the fitness and yoga programs. Adventures for an additional cost include snorkeling, cave diving, scuba diving and golf. Use group code “Yoga Retreat” and specify dates of retreat.

Say Yum: Donovan House ADC Ice Bar

Looking for some outdoor fun in the evenings? Throughout the entire month of February, Donovan House, the ultra-chic Thomas Circle hotel, is transforming its exclusive rooftop pool bar, ADC, into a cold weather oasis, unveiling a new Winter Ice Bar sponsored by Russian Standard Vodka.

During February, on Friday and Saturday evenings from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., guests will warm up at one of ADC’s outdoor fire pits while experiencing the breath taking views of the city. While visiting this lofty lounge, guests will want to dress warm to indulge in the “fire and ice fun” with new vodka cocktails served from a hand-carved ice bar. Some of the new cocktails include the Morello Fire, Ice Flurry, and Schuss Mulled Wine to name a few.

Are you looking to spend the night at the hotel for a mini getaway? By booking the “Ice Bar” package, Donovan House guests are rewarded a 10% discount off the best available room rate, in addition to two drink vouchers to be used that the rooftop bar.

You're Invited: W.A.V.E. of Love

Haven't gotten enough love in your life this week? Don't miss this great event, a post Valentine's Day  collection of compelling art and video by local and international artists including Rubio after Murakami, John Fansano, Cat Manolis, Ross Ruot, and Joan Belmar. DJ Chris Nitti will be spinning his mixes to ensure a good time for all.

The event will be held this Thursday, 17 February from 7-10 at L2 lounge. RSVP to events@l2lounge.com.

Jetset: Live in "Camelot" at the Ritz-Carlton

Celebrate celebrate the 50th anniversary of the inauguration of JFK with special packages at DC's Ritz-Carlton hotels.

Our favorite? The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown's Camelot at Dawn package. This package includes a walking tour of the homes they shared along with a VIP reservation to dine in Booth #3 or “The Proposal Booth,” at the famed Billy Martin’s Tavern. You'll also get a copy of Camelot at Dawn: Jacqueline and John Kennedy in Georgetown, a photo essay by Orlando Suero, who documented a typical week in the young couple's life. The package is just $399 per night and is available through the end of the year.

Luxe Life: Locks for Love at Bella Bethesda

One of Deacon's favorite salons, Bella Bethesda, kicks off their annual “Cut It For a Cause” campaign on today. This year marks the fourth annual celebration of the week-long event that benefits Locks of Love. Anyone who is able to give at least 10 inches of hair will receive a complimentary cut and blow dry.

Those interested but aren’t yet ready to donate can still participate (and receive a free cut!) by visiting the salon until February 20 to sign the pledge board to donate later this year. The salon is hoping to reach a goal of collecting 250 inches of hair so everyone who is able to donate matters!

Mark Your Calendars: Tysons Galleria Welcomes Elie Tahari

This February Tysons Galleria is welcoming Elie Tahari Ltd’s first freestanding boutique. The 2500 square-foot boutique offers the complete Elie Tahari lifestyle and will showacase the women’s, men’s and accessories collections.

“We are thrilled to be opening our first store in Washington DC and couldn’t imagine a better place to do so than at Tyson’s Galleria. DC attracts people from all over the world, so we are excited to introduce the Elie Tahari lifestyle to this area. We are eager to continue to expand the number of freestanding Elie Tahari boutiques and are delighted to be adding this 21st store in the United States to our growing portfolio,” said Elie Tahari, Chairman.

The store will celebrate their official grand opening with a special event in March. So while you wait anxiously, visit Elie Tahari online!

In Case You Missed It: Best of the 'Burbs

Visiting the DC area? Consider these other fun neighborhoods - via AOL Travel.

Jetset: Make time for Robemance at Kimpton

One of Deacon's favorite hotel chains is Kimpton - we love the boutique vibe, excellent service, and generally fab pricing. Our other favorite part? The robes. Yes. Leopard and Zebra print robes rock. That's why, this Valentine's Day, we're in the mood for "Robemance." Book a stay between now and the 28th to enjoy two signature robes and a $25 credit towards in-room dining at all participating properties.

@ DC's Hotel Rouge

Mostly so you can take pictures like the one above. Yes, that's us (well, McLean, anyway) at right.

Say Yum: Buddha-Bar DC Extends Restaurant Week Menu

Buddha-Bar DC loves their guests so much they are permanently extending their Restaurant Week lunch menu!

In addition to their regular menu, Buddha-Bar DC will feature a prix fixe lunch menu for $20.11 per person. This menu offers a choice of Appetizer: Miso Soup, Salt and Pepper Calamari, Vietnamese Spring Rolls, or California Roll; Main Course: Korean BBQ Sandwich, Kobe Beef Sliders, Japanese Sea Bass Tacos, or Mass Roll; and for dessert, Chocolate Sesame Bars.

Now the entire office can enjoy this delicious and affordable three-course menu all year round!

Say Yum: Ping Pong Dim Sum Chinese New Year Specials

Are your taste buds ready for a culture explosion? In celebration of China’s most important holiday, Chinese New Year, Chinatown restaurant Ping Pong Dim Sum will offer special menu items throughout the month of February.

These newly featured dishes include crisp, lightly fried White Fish and Seaweed Roll with Spicy Sesame Sauce and a spicy Beef and Shitake Mushroom Rice Pot. The desert special is a rich Chinese Chocolate Brownie packed with Chinese nuts and served with Blood Orange sorbet. For those interested in specialty cocktails, they’ll also be offering a Pear and Elferflower Collins, consisting of gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice and fresh pear.

Ping Pongs twist on their Chinese New Year specials this year capture the tastes and cultural significance of their most important holiday! Start planning for this must try dinner date restaurant, only good through the month of February!

In Case You Missed It: Valentine's Day Luxury Spa Packages

Want to know how to pamper yourself this V-day? We've checked out the world's best packages over on Luxist.

In Case You Missed It: Tweet Your Way to Australia

Want to go to a land down under? Here's your chance. 

Say Yum: Seamless Web Brings Free Coffee Days to DC

SeamlessWeb bills themselves as "the best way to order food online." We're thinking that they ought to change their name to "the best way to score free coffee" with this new promotion. Free Coffee Days offers users the chance to score a gratis cup o' joe ... just for showing up!

From Feb. 7-10, you'll find your cup in the SeamlessWeb truck, and from the 14-27, in participating restaurants.  They're also hosting a $100 gift card giveaway on Twitter. Simply tweet @SeamlessWeb a photo of your cup with the hashtag #FreeCoffee for your entry!

Anyone can get a free cup and you can come by every day if you'd like, so bring your friends and tell your neighbors.

Haven't tried SeamlessWeb yet? Find out what restaurants are available and enter code FREECOFFEE to save $5 on your first online order.**

Need more info? Here a video: 

Say Yum: Buddha Bar Specials for February

Love is in the Air at Buddha Bar this month with these great specials!

First, Buddha-Bar DC is excited to announce that will be permanently extending its restaurant week lunch menu, offering customers the choice of a prix fixe lunch menu for $20.11 per person.  This menu includes favorite dishes such as Salt and Pepper Calamari and Kobe Beef Sliders.

Second, beginning February 3rd through the 17^th, Buddha-Bar DC is ringing in the year of the Rabbit with TWO special Chinese New Year prix fixe menus for $75. For this 15 day special, customers will have the choice between a vegetarian or non vegetarian prix fixe menu; both come with a complimentary signature “Asia’Tini” cocktail.

Third, Buddha-Bar DC has partnered with Destination DC for the month long "Date Nights DC" promotion. For this promotion, Buddha-Bar DC will be offering customers a complimentary “Buddha Love” cocktail with the purchase of an entrée.

New Debut: Friday's Fancies

Welcome readers! We're debuting a new feature today inspired by our good friend {av}'s blog, Long Distance Loving. If you haven't checked it out, she's a super stylish taste maker with lots of great info about clothing, weddings, and style.

The Friday's Fancies concept is simple - simply design and show off an outfit that you would want to sport during your fabulous Friday night activities. Price is no object. Naturally, this is something that this fashion-forward puppy can put his paw print of approval all over. We're testing out the concept over the next few weeks, and hope you'll participate with us and our friends over at Long Distance Loving. If it becomes a success, we'll put it into regular rotation as a feature.

Here's our first attempt - please pardon the lack of graphics know-how. We're inspired by the upcoming holiday and our current obsession with va-va-voom red dresses to showcase a cocktail look that could be worn to a romantic dinner or theater night.

Main: 

Knee-length bandage dress by Herve Leger, $995 {Neiman Marcus}. We're not a huge fan of this ubiquitous bandage outfit normally, but the simple structure and longer length of this piece makes it a versatile addition to an evening wardrobe. 








Jewels:Simple, simple simple. We'd don diamond studs, our tennis bracelet, and our vintage Hamilton watch. Keeping it classy, ladies.

Shoes: 
With a dress that dramatic, we'll keep the shoes simple yet sophisticated. How about these Prada Patent Leather Sandals? ($670) {Saks Fifth Avenue}. Love the bow.

Bag:  A girl can dream, right? How about a luxe mink ball by Christian Louboutin ($1395) {Saks Fifth Avenue} to complete the ensemble?








Want to share yours? Use the code to "link up" and show off your outfit! \

Luxe Life: Cas Boutique Opens

McLean residents, take note - the newest shop in town opens today! Cas Boutique is a unique designer showcase offering one of a kind original designs by Maggie Burgess. From casual to wedding wear, Burgess offers something for women of all ages. They're having comp bubbly and nibbles for today's opening, so stop on in!

You're Invited: Jimmy Choo Shoe Party at Saks Tysons Corner

Say Yum: National Tortellini Day... Who Knew?

It might be a holiday diners have never heard of, but after sampling a wide-range of handmade tortellini stuffed with savory delicacies such as hay-smoked pheasant, duck confit and wild boar, National Tortellini Day on February 13, 2011 will never again be forgotten.

Stefano Frigerio of the Copper Pot Food Company is celebrating the little-known holiday with a gratis tasting of over 10 varieties of artisanal crafted tortellini and their handmade sauces. Deacon has sampled these sauces and pastas and let us tell you ... they're a treat meant to be savored again and again and again.

Looking to wow your sweetie with a Vday dinner? Pick some up. We guarantee you'll impress.

The complimentary tortellini tasting will be held at the Dupont Circle FRESHFARM Market 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Sunday, February 13.

Favorite Things: Skin Authority

Skin Authority

We'll admit to being product junkies - it's a hazard of the business. On any given day, we're sampling a new mascara, testing a fab mask and then jetting off to an evening event with brand new falsies. But one thing we've always been very picky about? Our cleansing products. After suffering in high school and college, we swore "never again" after finding an organic regimen that worked.

So when Skin Authority rep Debra Locker approached us before the International Spa Association show late last year and asked if we wanted to get a facial with her products, we said sure. But when she asked us to commit to trying Skin Authority as our main regimen for weeks at a time ... we'll admit to being skeptical.

But we were assured by Locker that we'd be in good hands - the brand's founder, Celeste Hilling, is a former head of the International Spa Association and considered a worldwide expert, and spas like the Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner use the line in their facials. It wasn't as if we were trying a drugstore generic. And speaking of generics, one of the things that originally sold us on Skin Authority was its near medical-grade quality.

The products are all designed to work with your skin's Ph levels and are the highest concentration of ingredient potency that one can get without a prescription. After a facial analysis, our esthetician assigned us a daily "regimen" that looked more like a prescription than anything else - it even came on a yellow pad! We were to start with a gel cleanser on dry skin, followed by a toner, cell renewal cream or Vitamin C serum (depending on the time of day) and a sunscreen-enhanced moisturizer. To help with our frequent travels, we picked up the kit in mini form as well.

After the first few days, we weren't entirely convinced ... it was a lot of steps to remember. But we loved how the cleanser, which was applied to dry skin, only took a tiny amount AND removed our makeup in one quick step. The daily serum also made a difference in our skin's tone and redness in less than week. After a month, we noticed that we were getting comments almost daily on our skin - something that had never happened before. And since we hadn't switched anything else major ... it had to be Skin Authority.

One of the things we LOVED was the regular e-mails from the brand talking about the chances we should be seeing in our skin, and the "hotline" we could call at any time to discuss questions or skin concerns. We knew that our skin would now be "regenerating" on a faster basis, and knew at what points we should start seeing results. It was like having our own personal skin coach on speed dial - we'd never seen this level of high-touch service from a brand before. 

Rarely does Deacon find such a high ranking for a skin product as he does for the Skin Authority line. We've since ceased using their moisturizer in lieu of our tried-and-true organic Skincando Miracle Cream (at least for the winter), but the rest of the products are 100% in our rotation. And three months later, we're not even out of our initial supply - a huge plus, given that products can get expensive.

If you're searching for a pump up to your own routine, trying to get "in shape" for a big day, or simply looking to make a change ... we'd highly recommend the products!  You can find it at the Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner, FYI.

Deacon was gifted the Skin Authority set, but the opinions of this puppy are solely his and writer McLean Robbins' own.

Say Yum: Sam Adams Super Bowl Recipes

There’s no better complement to the big game than a big meal. And what goes better with that than a great brew?

The recipes below were created by Samuel Adams chef partner David Burke, and are sure to be crowd-pleasers as you cheer on your favorite team.

Artichoke & Cheese Dip
Yield: 4 cups—serves 12
Ingredients:

• 1 cup Samuel Adams Boston Lager
• 1 ¾ pounds artichoke hearts (two 14-ounce cans, drained, or equal quantity frozen and thawed)
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon minced lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
• Several drops hot pepper sauce
• 8 ounces light cream cheese
• 1 egg white
• ½ cup plain bread crumbs

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350F.  Mix all the ingredients in a food processor fitted with a metal blade. Scrape the entire mixture into a 2 quart baking dish and bake for 30 minutes, or until browned and bubbly at the edges.  Serve with carrot and celery sticks, slices of bell pepper, bread, or chips.

Fresh Mozzarella and Zucchini Pesto Panini
Filling

• 1 cup zucchini, shredded
• 3 tbsp marcona almonds
• 1 clove garlic
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 12 basil leaves
• ½ tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp Samuel Adams Noble Pils
• Black pepper and salt to taste

Sandwich

• 1 loaf rustic ciabatta bread
• 6 balls fresh mozzarella sliced
• Olive oil

Mix filling ingredients in food processor and pulse to rough puree.  Slice bread lengthwise in half.  Fill with zucchini pesto and mozzarella.  Coat with olive oil and press in panini maker until cheese is bubbly and melted.  Cut into appetizer-sized pieces and serve during the big game!

Want to really impress? Pick up the all-new Samuel Adams American Originals Variety 12-Pack, offering six different craft beer styles in one box.

This year’s pack features spring seasonal brew Samuel Adams Noble Pils, which joined the Samuel Adams line-up in 2009.  Noble Pils is a unique beer, brewed with a blend of all five Noble Hop varieties from the five remaining Noble Hop growing regions. The spicy, herbal and citrus hop character is well balanced by the brew’s malt, adding honeyed flavor and full body. This crisp and spicy spring brew provides a seamless transition from winter’s chill to the warmer days ahead. The American Originals variety pack also includes Boston Lager, Revolutionary Rye Ale (Winner of the 2010 Samuel Adams Beer Lovers Choice Contest), Scotch Ale, Irish Red, and White Ale. The variety pack is on shelves now and retails for a $13.99.
Recipes courtesy of Samuel Adams

Say Yum: Sweet Valentine's Day Treats from Destination Spas Across the Country

The Nielsen Company reports more than 58 million pounds of chocolate candy will be purchased during Valentine’s week, ringing up $345 million in sales. Want to have all that chocolate goodness without the weight worries? The 10 tantalizing recipes from Destination Spa Group  were too good not to share with you!

Chocolate Crème Pie, Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge
Grape nuts, tofu and chocolate pudding mix combine for a low-calorie pie that is breeze to make.
RECIPE

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Chocolate Chippers, New Life Hiking Spa
Ask the kiddos to help with making the Chippers as they’ll enjoy rolling the dough into balls for baking.
RECIPE

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Fudge Cherry Cake with Raspberry Sauce, Red Mountain
Yum all around and only 213 calories per serving!
RECIPE

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White Chocolate, Raspberry Cheesecake, Green Mountain at Fox Run
The fresh raspberries baked into the crust are a refreshing surprise.
RECIPE

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Chocolate Bourbon Cream Pie, Lake Austin Spa Resort
Topped with nutmeg and chocolate gratings, this amazing pie comes in at only 170 calories per serving.
RECIPE

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Tiramisu, Deerfield Spa
This Italian treat can be made at home with some basic ingredients that take away calories without taking away the decadence.
RECIPE

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Dark Chocolate Mousse, The Oaks at Ojai
At only 60 calories per serving, including a half cup of berries, the Dark Chocolate Mousse provides some non-dairy protein for people looking for a dairy alternative, and it is gluten-free as well. During the summer months, it can be frozen and used as a sorbet.
RECIPE

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Orange Almond Brownies, Golden Door, Escondido
Black beans in brownies? You betcha! With the orange zest, almonds and almond extract, you can’t taste the beans and they make an amazing base for a rich, moist brownie.
RECIPE

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Two-Layer Chocolate & Orange Cake, Spa Eastman
How about an amazing chocolate cake that contains no flour? This recipe incorporates dark chocolate, which contains 70 percent cocoa and provides the body with polyphenols that fight cancer.
RECIPE

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Mayan Hot Chocolate, Rancho La Puerta
Chocolate was originally developed by the Mayan people of southern Mexico. This hot chocolate is based on an authentic Mexican drink recipe and even has a secret ingredient.
RECIPE

Say Yum: Chinese New Year at Chinatown Coffee Co.

Chinatown Coffee Co. be ringing in the Year of the Rabbit on February 6th by  featuring a new signature cocktail, the “The Crazy Rabbit,”composed of absinthe and champagne.

Chinatown Coffee Co.’s Chinese New Year celebration will be held on the same day as DC’s annual Chinese New Year parade on H Street, NW in Chinatown. The parade is from 2pm to 5pm and will feature a traditional Chinese Dragon Dance, Kung Fu demonstrations, and live musical entertainment.