Old City Celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the Zipper This Saturday
As some of you may already be aware, the galleries and shops in Old City have recently come together to expand the neighborhood’s iconic First Friday festivities to include an entire weekend of art, shopping and dining.
What you probably weren’t aware of is that they have something extra special in store for the May edition of First Friday Weekends.
Marking the 100th anniversary of the patenting of the zipper, this Saturday, 12 of the neighborhood’s best design and fashion destinations are taking part in a free, zipper-centric fashion show dubbed “ZIP 19106.”
Students from Philadelphia University, along with a few local boutique staffers, will be modeling a variety of clothing, objects and accessories—all featuring zippers—during an energetic runway show narrated by Snyderman-Works Galleries Director Frank Hopson and set to the live tunes of DJ Adub.
Afterwards, the models will mingle with the crowd to give you a closer look at their fashions and answer any questions you may have about where you can find them. Chances are you’re going to be particularly intrigued by Kate Cusack’s intricate, sculptural and surprisingly chic zipper jewelry (see right).
Meanwhile, food and drinks will be provided by several local restaurants, including Art in the Age, Cuba Libre, Wedge + Fig and Pinot. As for the boutiques and stores participating in the show—all of which will all remain open during the event, some offering special sales and spirits—that list includes Franklin Square, Smak Parlour, More Than Old, Three Sirens Boutique, The Geisha House, Sugarcube and US* U.S. Boutique.
The zipper-centric bash is open to the public and will be going down from 4-6 p.m. at Snyderman-Works Galleries, at 303 Cherry St.
Six Stylish Happenings This Weekend
I hope you were already planning to go shopping this weekend. If you weren’t, you may want to reconsider your plans.
SURFACE: Viaducts of Fashion Fundraiser
By now most of us have heard about the Reading Viaduct Project, which seeks to build a neighborhood park along the long forgotten elevated Viaduct in the Callowhill/Chinatown North section of the city. It would be nice if something finally happened, right? To support the project, the urban revitalization group, SURFACE, will be hosting a bash showcasing the fashions of local eco-friendly designers, Melissa D’Agostino and Bela Shehu of NINOBRAND along with the photographs of Julia Blaukopf. Though there will be a fancy schmancy exclusive fashion show at 5 p.m., it’ll be immediately followed by a public reception during which guests will enjoy wine and have an opportunity to chat with artists. On Saturday and Sunday, CITYSPACE will also opening its doors to the public, creating an intimate retail setting where you can meet the designers and shop their goods from 12-5 p.m. Fri/5, 7-9pm. $25-$35. CITYSPACE, 2200 Walnut St.
That’s right, one of Philly’s most beloved boutiques has managed weather the economic storm for eight whole years. And you bet your ass owners Abby and Katie are going to celebrate. Besides offering store-wide discounts on select items all weekend long, the ladies are going to give away free b-day gifts to the first 50 customers and raffle off eight $10 gift certificates throughout the night. Oh, and this wouldn’t be Smak Parlour we’re talking about here if there weren’t pink cupcakes. Fri/5, 5-8pm. Free. Smak Parlour, 219 Market St.
Cayetano Legacy Trunk Show & Sample Sale
Curated specially by Three Sirens Boutique, the women’s accessories brand Cayetano Legacy Collection will be bringing some of their most popular spring pieces as well as a selection of only-available-here-samples. The collection is marked by colorful statement pieces, most featuring genuine, natural stones like the cuff bracelet and hand embroidered bib style necklace you see above. If you can’t make it out tonight, no worries—the trunk show will be going on through May 11. Fri/5, 5-9pm. Free. Three Sirens Boutique, 134 N. Third St.
First Friday Vintage Garden Party & Trunk Show
Arcadia Boutique is ringing in spring in style by inviting two talented local designers to showcase and sell their wares at their NoLibs shop for First Friday. Nana Pat Project will be bringing their selection of vintage and handmade fashions for the spring (I’m loving their spring scarves made from vintage 80s textiles) while newbie jewelry designer, Tessa Kennedy of New Histories will be bringing along pieces from her collection of elaborate rings, all inspired by the jewelry of yesteryear. Enjoy snacks and spring cocktails while you shop and definitely check out Arcadia’s new spring arrivals while you at it since it’ll all be 15 percent off. Fri/5, 5-9pm. Free. Arcadia Boutique, 819 N. Second St.
The Wardrobe Boutique Spring Fashion Show & Style Brunch
Helping to raise money for Career Wardrobe, a local non-profit empowering women in transition with free professional clothing and educational seminars, professional stylists, Jessie Holeva and Tia Gibson are not only going to show you some of the biggest spring trends, but they’re going to offer you tips on how to pull off yourself. Guests will also enjoy light refreshments and receive 25 percent off all new inventory, free gifts and a chance to win a free Wardrobe Boutique shopping spree. Though the $20 dollar ticket is a pretty small charitable donation, right now, PW Style readers can score themselves a ticket for half off by entering the checkout code “FRIEND.” Sun/7, 11am-2pm. $20-$30. The Wardrobe Boutique, 1822 Spring Garden St.
What To Do This Weekend
Two places to consider hitting up tonight for Old City’s First Friday celebration…
Art in the Age: Haven’t made it out to the Constitution Center’s American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition exhibition? Well, this is the next best thing. As the Center’s exclusive partner, Art in the Age will be hosting a special exhibit of its own which features illustrations of the people, places, and processes that played a key role in forming Philly’s unique Prohibition experience. Even better: you’ll get to sample their bangin’ line of craft spirits. 5-9pm. Free. 116 N. Third St.
Three Sirens Boutique: In addition to their usual FF spirits and sales, this month, Three Sirens will be treating shoppers to some live music—the keen folk-rock melodies of local singer-songwriter, Dani Mari from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Whether before or after her performance, be sure to peruse the boutique’s selection of Valentines-appropriate dresses and accessories. If you’re staying home on Feb. 14, consider picking up a chocolate scented candle by Claudia & Ran to set the mood. 5-9pm. Free. 134 N. Third St.
Two unique local comedy shows going down on Saturday…
GET REAL 2: The Evolution of Comedy: Seeking both to amuse and enlighten, Ian Harris and Jason Resler, “America’s top rationalist comics,” are once again bringing their Evolution of Comedy Tour here to Philly, tackling all those taboo subjects that comedians aren’t suppose to tackle. This year, they’ll be joined on stage by an even bigger line-up of local talent including, the queens of Philly sketch comedy, ManiPedi, stand-ups Doogie Horner and Steve Gerben and Philly Sketchfest/Philly Comedy Month co-founder, Dave Terruso who will serve as the evening’s host. Meanwhile, providing some inspired instrumental live jams is Philly’s one and only “surf-punk, horror sci-fi” group, Mercury Radio Theater. Be sure to stick around after the show for a late night music/video/dance party led by DJ Dave Mass & Friends. 9pm-2am. $15-$20. Underground Arts, 1200 Callowhill St.
1st Annual Veggie Wing Bowl Comedy Spectacular: You know what 94WIP’s beloved annual Wing Bowl doesn’t have? Live comedy! While four awesome local stand-up comics—T.J Hurley, John Nunn, Carolyn Busa, Jim Ginty—dish out killer jokes, several gluttonous characters will be housing several dishes of Seitan buffalo wings during four rounds of competitive eating. Keeping the performers, eaters and hecklers in check are hosts, Hillary Rea and Larry “Thunderfoot” Napolitano. Last but not least, a crew of “Wing Bearers” will be competing for the coveted title of Mr. Wing Man 2013. Oh, and expect a few surprise guests to pop up throughout the night. 7:30pm. Free. Adobe Café, 1919 E. Passyunk Ave.
Two South Philly watering-holes to catch the Super Bowl at on Sunday…
South Philly Bar & Grill: This year, SPBG is teaming up with Female Football Frenzy (aka. F3), an annual campaign bringing men and women together for the purpose of football and philanthropy, to celebrate the big game for a good cause: The American Heart Association (AHA). In addition to their usual selection of brews and grub, to really stress the importance of maintaining a health heart, the restaurant will be serving Super Bowl-themed and AHA-approved dishes such as a “Red Zone” Roasted Vegetable Wrap, “Extra Point” Pasta Primavera and a “Fourth Down” Fruit and Yogurt Parfait. For every heart-healthy food option and Skinny Girl cocktails, $2 will be donated to AHA. Those generous enough to make a $25 dollar donation will receive a pin, t-shirt and a bunch of raffle tickets. 6pm. $10-$25. 1235 E. Passyunk Ave.
Noir’s South Philly Super Bowl Tailgate: If you have money riding on the game, it’s probably a good idea to make sure you still have cash in your pocket when it’s all said and done. Fortunately, that doesn’t mean you can’t stuff your face in the meantime. From the pre-game festivities till the rising of the Vince Lombardy Trophy, Passyunk Avenue’s newish Montreal influenced Italian joint will be serving up 25-cent wings in two uniquely delicious varieties: either covered in a sweet and spicy chili glaze or deep fried and adorned “wit” caramelized onions. To wash down all that chicken goodness, Chef Marco DeCotiis will also be offering $1 dollar Yuengling pints and his $5 dollar “O’Canada” special, which includes a 12 ounce Molson and a shot of Canadian Club. 3pm. 1909 Passyunk Ave.
What To Do This Weekend
If your new year’s resolution was to spend more time pampering yourself or perhaps upgrading your look, now’s the time to start following through. For this one-day-only Mary Kay pop-up shop, guests will have a chance to receive custom makeup and skincare recommendations during a free consultation with a Mary Kay professional as well as bites, bubbly and a 20 percent discount on the boutique’s entire selection of dresses. Be sure to RSVP on the Facebook event page before you go as you’ll be automatically entered to win one of several raffles and maybe even score a free Three Sirens gift certificate. Saturday, 11am-4pm. Free. Three Sirens Boutique, 134 N. Third St.
Photo: Partrick Daniel
If the company’s provocative and mind-bending annual Live Arts show is any indication, this annual bash benefitting Brian Sanders’ JUNK is likely to be a rather epic affair. Tonight, UArt’s Hamilton Hall will be transformed into a winter wonderland where partygoers can dance under falling snow and maybe even partake in an indoor snowball fight while enjoying the live beats of DJ Chip Dish, cocktails, beer, wine and creative “JUNK” food. In addition, great deals for local theater and dance productions will be raffled off throughout the evening and a silent auction will be held featuring “junk-inspired” artwork and lighting. Best of all, you’ll get to see a bit of JUNK’s holiday show at the Annenberg Center. Come donning your most creative winter white attire and fairytale-like jewelry as prizes will be awarded for both. Saturday, 8pm. $35-$50. University of the Arts, Hamilton Hall, 320 S. Broad St.
There may be a few appointments still open this Sunday at Lakshmi Hair Studio, where they’ll be offering $40 haircuts and $20 blowouts, all in benefit of the Friends of Kevin Neary Foundation. A dear and client, Neary was shot last year in a random act of violence leaving him paralyzed from the neck down. The foundation was established to help cover the costs of his long-term care. Sunday, 11am-4pm. Lakshmi Hair Studio, 21 N. Second St.
New Sales For The New Year
Sure 2011 may now official be behind us, but there’s still plenty of “end of the year” sales going on. So if you’ve got some Christmas cash leftover, here are some local shops you may want to consider blowing it at this weekend.
Three Potato Four: If you’re on the market for a unique salvaged vintage item for your home, now’s the time to check out Three Potato Four awesome collection of treasures. Spend over $100 and you’ll receive 35 percent off your entire order with the promo code NEWYEAR35. The sale ends at midnight on Sunday. (376 Shurs Ln., Building A)
Knit Wit/Plage Tahiti: Select items throughout the store are now be half-off. (1729 Chestnut St./128 S. 17th St.)
Arcadia Boutique: Looking for a little retail therapy to cure your holiday hangover? Take 25 percent off all clothing, shoes and sale items either in stores or online with the promo code: LEFTOVERS. If that’s not enough of an incentive, shoppers will automatically be entered to win a $100 gift certificate when they make a purchase anytime now-Sunday. (No Libs: 819 N. Second St. Rittenhouse: 265 S. 20th St.)
Nicole Miller: You have just a few more hours to take advantage of Nicole Miller’s semi-annual sale and take an additional 15 percent off all sale items using the promo code EXTRA15. By the way, this includes an ample selection of designer dresses. (200 S. Broad St.)
Three Sirens Boutique: As part of the Old City’s First Friday festivities, the boutique is offering 30-50 percent off clothing as well as 20 percent off accessories. Even better: they’re extending the sale through the weekend. (134 N. Third St.)
BUS STOP: Save anywhere from 30-40 percent on the Fabric Row boutique’s selection of winter shoes for ladies and blokes including, winter styles from such hot international designers as Irregular Choice, Nicole and Antelope. Their “RED HOT Winter SALE” ends on Jan. 13. (727 S. Fourth St.)
Local Gifts For Your Bestie
One last local gift roundup for all you very last minute shoppers out there…
Female…
Betsey Johnson Tights (Various Styles), $20 / Aoki Boutique, 115 S. 22nd St.
Rose Gold Cluster Studs, $75 / Concrete Polish, 716 N. Third St.
Scroll Tea Light Votive Set, $28 / C Wonder, King of Prussia Mall, 160 N. Gulph Rd.
High Waist Faux Leather Leggings, $30 / Three Sirens Boutique, 134 N. Third St.
Anne Taintor Flask, $24.95 / Kitchenette, 117 S. 12th St.
Male…
Always Shady Tee, $24.99 / Philly Phaithful, 737 N. Fourth St.
Ex Libris Anonymous Journals, $14 / Stadler Khan, 1724 Sansom St.
United By Blue iPad Case (Nutmeg), $32 / Kembrel, 1822 Chestnut St.
Mishka Vision Quest Beanie, $32 / Corsa, 535 South St.
Philadelphia Coasters, $13 / Open House, 107 S. 13th St.
What To Do This Weekend
If the selection of vintage clothing, accessories and housewares available on their Etsy shop is any indication, you’re definitely going to want to get your ass over to Fishtown at some point this weekend where the local founders of Snowbird Vintage will be temporarily occupying the entire space just above Adorn Boutique. These ladies clearly have a good eye for vintage fashion. Most of the items fall into either the “super-trendy” category or “stunningly classic” category. Personally, I’m really digging this 1970s wine-colored floor-length dress with crochet detailing. It’s like classy-Bohemian. Best of all, there’s even more awesome items downstairs. Friday, 11am-8pm. Daily through Sun/16. Free. Adorn Boutique, 1314 Frankford Ave.
If you missed Crafty Balboa last weekend, this may be the closest craft event to it. More than 15 local artisans and craftspeople will be in attendance selling an array of fine handmade jewelry and vintage treasures, including those of SquidWhale Designs, Dahling Accessories and MADEBYHANK. Oh, and you can even get a portrait of yourself sitting on the moon. That alone makes it worth the trip. Saturday, 12-6pm. Free. 1241 Carpenter St.
While you may never be able to enjoy Christmas with the same unbridled enthusiasm that you did as a child, why not at least try? Plop down on Santa’s lap, decorate cookies, marvel at an array of shinny seasonal arts and crafts, rock out to your favorite Christmas song with Frosty and maybe even partake in a little holiday treasure hunting. If this all sounds incredibly embarrassing, then offer to babysit a niece or nephew and relive your youth through them. Saturday, 11am-2pm. Sister Cities Park, Logan Square, 18th & Ben Franklin Pkwy.
You didn’t think the holiday season was going to go by without a GO WEST craft extravaganza, did ya? Regardless of who it is that you need to crossed off your list, chances are one of the 40 local vendors at this year’s event will have the ideal gift—one that you probably would have never thought of yourself. For instance, how about a cozy hand knitted or crocheted winter accessory for your bestie living in Chicago? Or how about a clever screen-printed tee for you’re little bro? Saturday, 11am-4pm. Free. The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut St.
Once again, Three Sirens Boutique is partnering with Nawrocki Fitness for a special shopping event, this time with a portion of the proceeds helping to benefit Moss Rehab. In addition to accessories and handbags by Urban Expressions and apparel from RD Style and Press, befittingly, the boutique will be bringing along their selection of Hardtail workout gear as well. RVSP to the Facebook event or bring your student ID and you’ll receive an additional 10 percent off. Sunday, 12-5pm. Free. Nawrocki Fitness, 1500 Locust St.