Tag Archives: carathanassis

Cocktail of the Week: Guinness + Tequila=The Black Opal

8 Mar

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

Who says that beer must be the only drink served on St. Patrick’s Day? Those who are looking to celebrate the Irish festivities with a sophisticated twist…Guinness plus Tequila = one happy leprechaun! On March 17th, dip your Irish self into a pot of gold called the “Black Opal”.

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The Black Opal
Partida Tequila and Guinness Draft

BLACK OPAL
by Tequila Partida’s Bartender Ambassador Jacques Bezuidenhout
1 1/2 oz Partida ReposadoTequila
1 1/2 oz Guinness Draft
1/2 oz Tawny Port
1/4 oz Agave Nectar
Dash of Angostura Bitters

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled wine glass or small pint glass without ice. Garnish with some grated or ground cinnamon powder.

Guinness note: Take a pint of Guinness before hand and use a bar spoon to stir it up for about 30 secs. This removes some of the Co2.

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

christina carathanassis

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Cocktail of the Week: The Wizard

22 Feb christina Carathanassis, christabelle's closet

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

Did you know vodka is the most consumed liquor in the United States? I did, because it is all being consumed by my circle of friends. Joking, of course (or am I?)…now critically acclaimed cocktail guru Tony Abou-Ganim (Author of Vodka Distilled: The Modern Mixologist on Vodka and Vodka Cocktails - and soon to be my new BFF) has turned our attention towards renewing our appreciation for this oft-maligned spirit.

My taste buds have found the yellow brick road to happiness with this delectable recipe, The Wizard.

Reprinted with permission from Vodka Distilled: The Modern Mixologist on Vodka and VodkaCocktails, by Tony Abou-Ganim with Mary Elizabeth Faulkner, Agate Surrey, February 2013.

Reprinted with permission from Vodka Distilled: The Modern Mixologist on Vodka and Vodka
Cocktails, by Tony Abou-Ganim with Mary Elizabeth Faulkner, Agate Surrey, February 2013.

Recipe: The Wizard
The Wizard benefits from a robust vodka with lots of character. I look to the old-world
vodkas of Eastern Europe, those made from rye or potato.

Ingredients:

2 oz (60 ml) vodka
1 oz (30 ml) Cinzano Bianco
B/c oz (15 ml) Yellow Chartreuse
2 dashes orange bitters

Directions:

In an ice-filled mixing glass add vodka, Cinzano Bianco, Yellow Chartreuse, and orange
bitters; stir until well chilled. Strain into a chilled, small (Nick & Nora–sized) cocktail
glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon.

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

ABOUT TONY: Tony Abou-Ganim grew up in the bar business, learning the craft from his cousin
Helen David at the Brass Rail Bar in Port Huron, Michigan, before going on to develop cocktail programs for numerous restaurants in San Francisco (working with Harry Denton) and  New York (working with Mario Batali) and at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. He operates his own beverage consulting firm and also serves as the national ambassador of the U.S. Bartenders Guild. Mary Elizabeth Faulkner is a writer living in the San Francisco Bay area.

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Cocktail of the “Snowy” Week: Foxy Night Blackberry Martini

8 Feb christina Carathanassis, christabelle's closet

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

Foxy Night Blackberry Martini

Foxy Night Blackberry Martini

Oh the weather outside is frightful…but inside it is sinfully sexy tonight.  Open the curtains and watch the blizzard barrel down upon us while sipping this divinely chic and oh, so yum-yum cocktail.  NYFW might be “postponed” with the snow, but you can still be fashionably fierce and foxy when you get THIS martini ON thanks to Chantelle Fraser of Flawless NYC .

Foxy Night Blackberry Martini
1 oz. P.I.N.K. Vodka

1 1/2 oz. cranberry juice

1 oz. blackberry brandy

1/2 oz. Cointreau

Splash of sour mix

Fresh blackberries

P.I.N.K Vodka

Directions:

*Combine ingredients over ice and shake well.

*Strain into a well-chilled martini glass.

*Pour 1 1/2 scoops of mulled blackberries through the center.

*Stir slightly.

*Garnish with a blackberry on the edge of the glass.

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

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My Nympho Obsession…

21 Jan Look What I Found Header 2

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

The Nympho by Kristen Farrell

With Valentine’s Day just a few short weeks away, I thought it was best to share my obsession (and awesome gift pick for CC) this week. Her work is uber fierce (as is the girl behind the brand). Kristen Farrell’s designs continue to rock the editorial pages of the highest profile publications and are continually seen on the necks, hands and wrists of the “who’s who” list.  From a post I wrote in 2009 – clearly, I am still a HUGE fan of Ms. Farrell’s work…

christina carathanassisA new girl has hit town and she brings with her a rocker chic that ever so desperately needed to be filled – especially in the “haahhmptons dahling”.  That new girl is Kristen Farrell - goldsmith to the stars.

With one peek at her collection, it exudes exquisite passion and work(wo)manship.  With another peek, it oozes  fierce style and individuality. With a third peek, it grabs you tight and doesn’t let go. You need to have it…and you need it NOW.

With every facet of her artistically hand crafted jewelry there are subtle details hidden within. Her appreciation for mystical creatures and medieval armor comes to life as wearable art, fashioned with the finest gems and precious metals.  These “one of a kind” creations, to no surprise,  have been spotted on some of the most influential people in Hollywood and beyond (Tyra Banks, Jessica Alba to name a fabulous few).  And, who can blame them - Kristen Farrell sometimes spends up to six months perfecting one single piece of jewelry. With intense depth and character, Kristen Farrell brings a fresh, new rocker dimension to the upscale jewelry scene (did we mention this talented designer is only in her twenties?). Her energy, excitement, and passion empower each piece allowing the bearer to reveal themselves in ways they never imagined. Bring your AMEX BLACK for these exclusive pieces…starting price to own a piece of Kristen Farrell is $6K …all the way up to and over $110K. And yes, worth every penny.

Want to know more about the woman behind this verocious line? Keep checking back..she has already been interviewed for an  UPCOMING Cool Peep of the Week…

In the meantime, make sure you visit her store in Soho…

Follow Kristen on Twitter!Follow On Facebook!

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Cocktail of the Week: The Broken Flower

18 Jan christina Carathanassis, christabelle's closet

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset
New Zealand is a world away, where seasons are flipped (the Kiwis are currently experiencing a gorgeous summer), time is separated by a minimum of 18 hours and February 6th marks Waitangi (pronounced y-tangy) Day, or Independence Day. This important date celebrates the signing of New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, a holiday New Zealanders celebrates with music, dance, naval salutes and more. As the official end to summer, Waitangi Day is full of outdoor activities, festivals and concerts amid the vibrant blooming flowers (like the native Rata flower).

Fresh out of New Zealand is Broken Shed Vodka,  is one of the few vodkas on the market that is additive free (and GLUTEN FREE), making it extremely pure (just like me…I hear you snickering peanut gallery). Bottoms up…!

The Broken Flower
1 part Broken Shed
1 part Soda Water
Healthy drop of Elderflower liqueur
Pour over ice and garnish with sliced cucumber

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

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Cocktail of the Week: Rosemary Infused Champagne

11 Jan christina Carathanassis, christabelle's closet

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

If you have ever been to my house for dinner, you might have experienced my famous Roasted Rosemary Potatoes with a little fabulous sprinkled on top. The sensual smell of Rosemary in home warms the soul and kind of makes me a little frisky (perhaps 2013′s newest aphrodisiac?).

I never thought to add Rosemary to a cocktail so I am thankful to our friends at SheKnows.com for this amazing cocktail recipe!

Rosemary-scented Champagne cocktail recipe

Rosemary adds a subtle hint of aromatic herbs to this delightful sparkler.

Makes 1

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Combine rum and rosemary simple syrup in a Champagne flute. Fill glass to the top with Champagne. Squeeze lemon into cocktail.

Rosemary simple syrup recipe

Makes about 1/2 cup

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 sprig rosemary (about 5 inches)

Directions:

  1. Pull leaves off rosemary sprig and add to a small saucepan with sugar and water.
  2. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Reduce to a low boil for about 5 minutes until mixture is thickened.
  3. Remove from heat and strain. Let cool completely. Store in refrigerator.

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

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Cocktail of the Week: The Ultimate Cuban-Greek-Italian Hot Irish Toddy

4 Jan christina Carathanassis, christabelle's closet

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

christina carathanassis

My neighbor (and Cuban bestie) Kim and I are NOT big drinkers. The mere sound of a cork being pulled from a resistant wine bottle is enough to give us both a good buzz.  But many a night after work, we are looking to relax after along day – before our boys come home from the gym. And now that the cold weather has hit us all hard, Kim and I concocted what we like to think is the ULTIMATE Hot Toddy – created by two hot toddies (of the Cuban and Greek/Italian decent – so you know this drink has ‘tude and passion;  with a splash of Irish  – so you know you will have a smile on your face as you sip).

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons Michael Collins Irish Whiskey   (this can be tweaked given how bad a day you have had – lol)
  • 1.5 Tbsp Manuka Honey (I like 2 Tbsp – Kim likes 1, so we compromised on the recipe)
  • 1/4  Meyer Lemon (we have also tried this with 2 tsp lemon juice from the grocery store and it is just as delicious)
  • 1 Tazo Calm Tea Bag
  • 1 tsp McCormick Apple Pie Spice  (this is a delightful combination of cinnamon, all spice and nutmeg)
  • 1 Cinnamon Stick
  • 1 cup hot water

Christina Carathanassis

Preparation:

  1. Pour hot water into mug and add tea bag
  2. Add lemon, honey and whiskey,  stir
  3. Add Apple Pie Spice, stir
  4. Let steep for 5 minutes
  5. Add a full Cinnamon Stick for extra flavor and decor
  6. Sip and enjoy…ahhhhhhhhh

Kimmy and I like to drink our Hot Toddies in our matching monogrammed mugs from Anthropologie…what are you drinking yours in?

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

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Cocktails of the Week: Star Spangled Drinks with Pucker™ Vodka

13 Jul

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

On July 27th, the world will watch in excitement as Team USA heads across the pond to participate in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. As our nation’s finest athletes compete for the gold, there is no better reason to gather with friends and cheer on our home team. Get your patriotic spirit ON with these American themed cocktails that they can enjoy while celebrating every Team USA victory with Pucker Vodka @PuckerVodka

London Cooler

  • 1⁄2 parts Pucker™ Lemonade Lust Vodka
  • 2 parts Fresh Lemon Sour
  • 4 parts Iced Tea

How to Make the London Lemon Cooler

Build in order over ice in a tall highball glass. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

Gold Medal Spritzer

  • 1 ½ parts Pucker™ Citrus Squeeze Vodka
  • ½ part Triple Sec
  • 1 part Sweet & Sour Mix
  • 1 part Orange Juice
  • Dash of Lemon-Lime Soda

How to Make the Gold Medal Spritzer

Combine ingredients in a mixing tin (except soda) and shake vigorously with NO ice. Pour over ice in a glass. Garnish with lemon wedge.

(21+ – please drink responsibly)


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Cocktails of the Week: NUVO Sparkling Liqueur and Lemon Sorbet

25 May

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

To welcome the summer months, here are two mouth-watering recipes to glam up your Memorial Day weekend extravaganza. Make your summer kick-off bash a chic affair with The Highball, made with NUVO Lemon Sorbet and the Sparkling Sunset, made with NUVO Sparkling Liqueur and pineapple juice. Enjoy and have one for me (I am still sadly CARB FREE…boooooo!):

 

Nuvo Classic Sparkling Liquer

The Highball

4 oz. NUVO Lemon Sorbet

1 ½ oz. pomegranate juice

1 ½ oz. gin

Serve over ice in a tall glass and garnish with fresh fruit

Sparkling Sunset

3 oz. NUVO Sparkling Liqueur

3 oz. pineapple juice

Serve over ice in a tall glass and garnish with fresh fruit

(21+ – please drink responsibly)


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Organically Caesar…

23 Feb

By Christabelle…

Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars

Just in time for spring, Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace has added four organic spa treatments to its menu. These fresh new treatments are designed to firm, refresh and brighten skin using all-natural products and ingredients. Guests will be able to enjoy these eco-friendly treatments as a permanent part of the menu beginning March 9.

Tea & Sea Organic Body Scrub (50-minutes; $150)

Using powerful antioxidants, vitamins and minerals derived from organic white tea leaves and seaweed, the Tea & Sea Organic Body Scrub begins with a delicate citrus-kombucha tea body wash followed by an almond-orange fruit and nut scrub to cleanse and exfoliate the skin. Vichy shower streams warmed to perfection heat the body, while a scented coconut argan oil scalp massage is performed. Applied to warm, polished skin, the final application of body butter, containing grape stem cell, white tea and seaweed, melts in to the skin leaving it radiant and silky smooth.

Anti-Cellulite & Body Firming Wrap (50-minutes; $180)

Designed to tighten and firm the body using nature’s super-rich defense compounds found in coffee berries, this body wrap will enhance the appearance of skin’s texture with a combination of enzymes and formulated body-shaping complex. While skin is nourished and polished using all natural ingredients, a relaxing scalp and slimming massage will aid in stress-relief and detoxification transpiring a confident new radiance.

CoffeeBerry® Yoga Facial (50-minutes; $200)

The relaxing, anti-aging CoffeeBerry Yoga Facial is designed to improve areas that show the most signs of aging: face, neck, décolletage and hands. This all-natural, results-oriented treatment will reduce tension and stress levels as well as brighten and even overall skin tone. The synergetic effects of detoxification, massage, lifting techniques and increased circulation will leave the skin with a natural lift and smoother lines.

Qua Mystic Journey (75-minutes; $300)

This astonishing body and facial ritual combines the most lavish experiences beginning with a warm coconut argan oil application along the spine followed by a ginger lime sugar scrub. A soothing, organic body oil is applied before being gently wrapped in a blanket of warm towels during a stimulating scalp massage and restorative facial to stimulate the essential functions of the skin and aid in the repair of cell damage.

For more information on Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace or to book an organic spa treatment, visit www.quabathsandspa.com or call (866) 782-0655.

QUA BATHS & SPA

The stylish 50,000-square-foot Qua Baths & Spa taps into the natural healing powers of hot and cold water therapy featuring Roman Baths, an ancient bathing ritual featuring three pools of varying temperatures. Amenities also include the Arctic Ice room, Laconium room, herbal steam room, cedar wood sauna and whirlpool. Offering 51 treatment rooms including three deluxe couples’ studios and seven facial rooms, highly trained artisans perform a full range of treatments and wellness rituals from massages, to Ayurvedic treatments, to hypnotherapy and chakra balancing. Qua has recently been named among the nation’s best spas in Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s “Hot List,” and received five 2011 SpaFinder Readers Choice awards including “Favorite Spa Treatment,” “Best for Luxury,” “Best For Men,” “Best for Interior Design” and “Top 10 Best Spa in a Hotel Casino.” Qua is open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. More information can be found at www.quabathsandspa.com

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It’s All Greek to Me…

22 Feb

By Christabelle…

Being Greek (or at least half)…this girl likes to eat! That’s why I was thrilled to find out that there is a new Greek eatery opening in NYC!

Restaurateur Christos Valtzoglou announced today the inauguration of his newest culinary concept Boukiés—a casual restaurant that is based around the Greek and Mediterranean tradition of small-plate dishes, know asmeze. Valtzoglou has enlisted famed chef, Diane Kochilas, as Consulting Chef, along with Chef de Cuisine, Stefan Sanders, to design amenu rooted in delicious, modern variations of authentic Greek fare. Boukiés is slated to open in March of this year, at 29 East Second Street in Manhattan’s East Village.

Culinary offerings at Boukiés, which means “small bites” in Greek, include classics like: Greek taverna mussel saganaki (flaming cheese – awww yeah!) and unique regional dishes such as Thessaloniki eggplant “dolmas” with spiced ground meat, Volos-style shrimp and cauliflower with a twist, feta-filo flutes with Greek honey and more. Boukiés will offer only two main courses: grilled lamb chops and Greek grilled fish. Additionally, Boukiés will house an impressive selection of world-class wines for the clientele to pair with their meals.

“We are excited to bring the essence of Athens to the East Village with Boukiés’ unique offerings and Mediterranean ambiance,” said Boukiés’ proprietor Christos Valtzoglou. “New York’s notoriety is built off of cultural integration. Hopefully city goers will welcome my culture’s intimate style of dinning with open arms.”

Valtzoglou, a thirty-year veteran restaurateur, has lead and relished the successes of several upscale New York eateries.   This new concept marks the second partnership with Chef Kochilas. The duo currently works together at Valzoglous’ highly celebrated PYLOS restaurant, where Kochilas also serves as Consulting Chef.

“Dining on meze is fun and friendly. The foods are vibrant, seasonal and healthy the entire menu is designed to reflect the variety inherent in mezedining. Seafood and fish, meats and charcuterie, vegetables, beans are all part of the menu,” says Kochilas.  “The palette of flavors includes it all—spice, mildness, hot, cold, crunchy, pureed. This kind of dining is meant to excite the palate. That excitement and a nod to seasonal specialties are our signatures at Boukiés.”

Acclaimed Interior Designer Paul Chi and Echeverria Edwards & CIA were commissioned to conceive Boukiés’ distinct look. Sergio Echeverria, who has lent his design savvy to popular dwellings like the W Hotel, creates a warm, welcoming environment by incorporating classic style furniture in neutral color palettes, large wood tables and pops of the blue-turquoise color popular in Greece, as a modest nod to the culture. A wall of shelves will feature dinnerware and everyday kitchenware to bring a casual, homey feel to the restaurant.

Boukiés will be open daily for lunch and dinner, offering brunch on weekends and expanded outdoor dining when weather permits.

For more information visit boukiesrestaurant.com or follow @BoukiesNYC

Boukies Restaurant

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Cocktail of the Week: Hot Peppermint Mocha Shots with Coffee-mate

21 Oct

By Christabelle…

I have taken my UGGS out of the closet – it is officially cold here in NYC. To welcome the cooler weather, I have opted to cozy up with Hot Peppermint Mocha Shots and Javatini – delightful blends of chocolate, peppermint and vanilla and caramel flavors.  Easy to shake up and even more fun to enjoy, these fall favorites are a hit with everyone – especially when it is too cold outside to hit the happy hour scene…

Hot Peppermint Mocha Shots:

1 tsp. vanilla extract

3/4 cup water

3/4 cup Coffee-mate Peppermint Mocha

3/4 bar (3 oz.) dark chocolate baking bar

2 oz. peppermint schnapps

Whipped cream

-HEAT water to boiling in small heavy-duty saucepan with vanilla extract; heat for 1 minute. Reduce heat to medium. Add Coffee-mate and chocolate; whisk until smooth, slightly thickened and hot. Add optional peppermint schnapps.

-DIVIDE mixture between 6 small coffee cups or tall shot glasses; top with dollop of whipped cream and serve.


Javatini

1/4 cup espresso

2 Tbsp. Coffee-mate White Chocolate Caramel Latte

2 oz. vodka

1 oz. coffee liqueur

Ice cubes

 

- FILL cocktail shaker halfway with ice.

-ADD espresso, Coffee-mate, vodka and liqueur; cover.

-SHAKE for 10 to 15 seconds. Strain into chilled martini glass.

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

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Cocktails of the Week: Baileys Original Irish Cream, Ketel One Vodka and Moon Mountain Vodka

14 Oct

By Christabelle…

What better to soothe your bitter-weather-blues than a schnazzy cocktail to warm your insides?!  Get frisky with these fabulous fall cocktail recipes from Baileys Original Irish Cream, Ketel One Vodka and Moon Mountain Vodka. Perfect for after-raking leaves, pumpkin carving or apple picking… TGIF!

Autumn Appreciation
Ingredients
2 ounces Baileys Irish Cream with a hint of Caramel
1 ounce Ketel One Vodka
1 ounce Espresso
Caramel
Preparation
1.         Swirl caramel around the inside of a martini glass and put to side.
2.         Pour Baileys Irish Cream with a hint of Caramel, Ketel One, Ice and Espresso into a shaker and shake until very frothy.
3.         Strain into Caramel swirled martini glass, making sure that the foam is on top to make it look like a cappuccino. Using a spoon while pouring helps keep the foam on top.

Harvest Highball
Recipe Created for Moon Mountain Vodka by Kathy Casey Liquid Kitchen™ Ingredients
1 1/2 ounces Moon Mountain Organic Vodka
3/4 ounce Housemade Cranberry Syrup including 3- 4 of the berries (recipe follows)
3/4 ounce Fresh Lemon Juice
1 1/2 ounces Fresh Orange Juice
2 dashes Angostura Bitters
Preparation
1.         Measure the Moon Mountain Vodka, Cranberry Syrup including a few of the berries, lemon juice and orange juice into a cocktail shaker.
2.         Fill with ice and add the bitters.
3.         Shake vigorously and pour into a tall glass.
Housemade Cranberry Syrup
Makes 1 1/2 cups

Ingredients
1 cup Fresh Cranberries
1 cup Water
1 cup Sugar

Preparation
1.         Place ingredients into a small saucepan.
2.         Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
3.         Simmer for 1 minute then turn off heat.
4.         Let syrup infuse for one hour and then refrigerate.
(21+ – please drink responsibly)

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Cocktail of the Week: Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha

7 Oct

By Christabelle…

This winter, warm up by the fire withKahlúa Peppermint Mocha ($17.99), a delectable mix of 100% Arabica Coffee beans, cool peppermint and decadent dark chocolate.  A holiday twist on the classic favorite, this limited edition spirit from the makers of the world’s number one selling coffee liqueur is the perfect addition to any gathering.  While unwinding after a long day on the slopes, toasting with friends at a holiday celebration, or bringing along as a seasonal gift to a holiday party, Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha is the beverage to enjoy as you savor winter’s delights.

You can enjoy Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha served neat, on the rocks, or blended beautifully into cocktails, coffee drinks, and especially hot cocoa.

Try making this cocktail at home to heat up your winter season:

Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha Hot Cocoa

2 parts Milk

1 part Drinking Chocolate

1 part Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha

Bring milk to a simmer. Whisk in drinking chocolate. Simmer for 30 seconds while stirring. Add Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha. Garnish with peppermint stick and marshmallows. 

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

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Cocktail of the Week: Camus VS Elegance Season’s Delight

30 Sep

By Christabelle…

The leaves are starting to change…you might have just used a coat to ward off the chill…what better reason to make yourself a Season’s Delight cocktail with CAMUS VS ELEGANCE Cognac – Camus youngest Cognac, the Very Special is a blend of different eaux-de-vie of the Cognac region.

Season’s Delight

2 oz CAMUS VS ELEGANCE

1/2 oz Aperol

1/2 oz St Germain

3/4 oz Lemon

1 dash of rubarb bitters

Shake and strain into cocktail glass and garnish with a flamed orange twist.

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

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Cool Peep of the Week: Alexandra Vino, HBO’s “How To Make It In America”

28 Sep

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

HBO’s How to Make it in America: Alexandra Vino

WHO IS THIS COOL PEEP:
Blonde bombshell and actress extraordinaire, Alexandra Vino of HBO’s How To Make It In America.

THESE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS:

Random Knowledge:  I love learning about everything from where paper clips originated to human psychology.

Acting:  My love for acting has a lot to do with the need for physical and emotional artistic expression, as well as self discovery, and discovery of others. I have built an entirely fresh appreciation for the world since my first method acting lesson. I love being inspired and passing it on.

Animals: I love animals and have an amazing little white snugglebug rescue of my own.

A girls day with tea, mani pedi and tons of giggles -  Art -  Pottery -  A made bed to come home to!

ALEXANDRA’S FALL TREND WISH LIST:

Boots leggings and cozy cashmere sweaters!!

Personally I can’t stick to just one look! I have too much that I like…its all according to my mood. You’ll find me in biker boots and a leather jacket one day and a ruffled top with mini skirt and dark stockings the next. I no this year I am bringing in vintage styles and loving the tuxedo look a la Marlene Dietrich in the 20′s.

Its all about layering- I learned that Ralph Laurens motto is 5 piece minimum before you leave the house. This includes any layer or accessory.

WHAT ARE ALEXANDRA’S FAVORITE NYC HAUNTS:

Favorite NYC restaurant is Pure Food and Wine, Su En, Or Angelica’s Kitchen.

On the run…Whole Foods salad bar is always a quick go to for me.

Chelsea Market has the best stores for gifts, food, and they have pop up shopping sample sales often! LOVE IT!

There is an old church on 20th and 6th as well that has new vendors constantly coming in and out with the coolest designer fashions that you can’t just find anywhere. Also I the place is great because it is ALWAYS changing so its  a new experience every time!

Casual 567 bar in meatpacking has the coolest underground cozy nook and cranny spot.

FRYING PAN as well…this is for when you are in sneaker and a t shirt and just want some fresh air with some great people. Its a giant ship that is permanently docked on the Hudson River with all the original fixtures, so you can go below deck like the titanic and find all sorts of interesting rooms….great environment!

WHAT SONG PLAYS IN THE ROOM WHEN YOU WALK IN:

Israel Kamakawiwo’Ol “Somewhere over the rainbow”

WHERE YOU CAN FIND ALEXANDRA NEXT:

You can check me out as the Fashion Diva’s Secretary on the Second Season of HBO’s  “How To Make It In America” premiering Oct 2, 2011 – TUNE IN!

Also A must see is Steve McQueens newest film just picked up by Fox Searchlight.  I am one of Michael Fassbenders many addictions until his sister Carey Mulligan discovers his painful path. Keep an eye out for when it will be released in theaters.

Also I am working as the lead for an amazing comically, sexy, angry play written and Directed by Michael Bregman. “Vixen” to be showing the end of the year!

Follow her on twitter: @alexandravino

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Cocktail of the Week: Tea Time with Flor de Caña 7 Year Rum

23 Sep

By Christabelle…

Who said high tea needed to be at the Russian Tea Room with scones? Not tea time with Flor de Caña 7 Year Rum!  Grab your cashmere wrap, your sunglasses and hit the porch with this yummy, warming cocktail – perfect for Friday night happy hour with the girls. Palate: A round entry leads to medium-bodied palate of dark caramel and toasted nuts. Finishes with a dry toasted coconut fade.

Tea Time

2 oz Flor de Caña 7 Year Rum

1 oz Hibiscus Tea Concentrate

0.5 oz Lemonade

1 oz Simple Syrup

Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Strain into a short rocks glass over ice and garnish with an orange rind and sprig of thyme.

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

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Cool Peep of the Week: Kelli – “Gave up on Love”

21 Sep

By Christabelle…

Kelli’s Next Appearance in NYC is on 9/24/2011

WHO IS THIS COOL PEEP:
Many know of Kelli Brooke Tomashoff from starring in Bravo’s NYC Prep, aka the real-life Gossip Girl. Since then, the pint-sized fashionista (known just as Kelli now) has shed her schoolgirl image by impressing crowds all over NYC with her strong vocal chops and powerful performances of her recently dropped hot dance club single “Gave Up On Love.”  The controversial music video for the track showcases Kelli’s energetic and unfaltering determination, setting the bar high for future expectations from the entertainment dynamo.

THESE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS:

Wesley Nault:  He is a true, young talent + his leather bows make me tingle
Garo Sparo: His pieces are crafted in this far off magical world of Garo
Alexander McQueen: Because he defined innovation and rebellion.
Logan Neitzel: Because he is my fashion soulmate, my kindred spirit.
JR Malpere: Because his millinery work is museum quality.
Giuseppe Zanotti Design: Epitomizes a sexy shoe
Pierre Balmain: his designs for women are so chic and sophisticated. He’s dressed both Brigette Bardot and Vivien Leigh, two of my female icons.
Givenchy: BREAKFAST AT TIFFANYS, what more needs to be said.
YSL: Le Smoking Tuxedo and so much more.
Chanel:Eternal Classic

KELLI’S FALL TREND WISH LIST:

Knee high Boots – Leather Jackets – Marilyn Monroe-esque Bodysuits – Bardot styled High Waist Leather Shorts

Graphic Leggings – Red/Black leather Gloves – Hepburn inspired LBD and veil – Dark + Dramatic Lip

WHAT IS HER FAVORITE NYC HAUNT:

My bedroom in NYC.

WHAT IS IN KELLI’S HANDBAG RIGHT NOW

lipstick, download cards for Gave Up On Love, change, sunglasses.

WHAT SONG PLAYS IN THE ROOM WHEN YOU WALK IN:

Of course, Gave Up On Love..I Put a Spell On You

WHERE YOU CAN FIND HER NEXT:

Sept 23, 2011 -  Six Flags Great Adventure, NJ
Sept 24, 2011 – Club 57 in NY, NY
Oct 20, 2011 – Sullivan Hall, CMJ

Gave Up On Love Official Video:


Gave Up On Love Chart History: Billboard Hot Shot Debut, #4 Billboard Breakout Hot Dance Club Chart

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Cocktail of the Week: Le Chat Noir with Lucid Absinthe

16 Sep

By Christabelle…

Le Chat Noir…the black cat – MEOW! I thought Absinthe was illegal in this country…but alas – not the case. Wormwood, when packaged properly within the product – is indeed legal.  In honor of the end of Fashion Week NYC, whip up this berry-licious cocktails with the girls and get your puuurrrrr on…

Le Chat Noir

1 oz     Lucid Absinthe

1 oz     Effen Black Cherry Vodka

2 oz     Lemon-lime soda

Raspberry Liqueur to taste

Lemon wedge or cherry

Fill a tall glass with ice and add Lucid Absinthe and Effen Black Cherry Vodka. Add lemon-lime soda and float Raspberry Liqueur. Garnish with a lemon wedge or cherry and serve.

(21+ – please drink responsibly)

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Cool Peep of the Week: Jacqui Stafford, Style Guru

15 Sep

By Christabelle…

Jacqui Stafford, Style Guru

WHO IS THIS COOL PEEP:
Jacqui Stafford, the ultra-cool, uber hip and ever so talented style guru, who can dress you in the perfect outfit with her eyes closed.  World-Renowned Fashion Editor, Body Shape Style Expert, and National TV Personality. (Boy…that’s a whole lotta titles!!)

THESE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS:
My 3 year old daughter, my friends, and my Tag Heuer Monaco watch.

HER FALL WISH FOR FASHION:
REED KRAKOFF’S PRINTED HAIRCALF BOXER TOTE (ummmm – ditto!)

HER FALL WISH FOR BEAUTY:
For celebrity dermatologist, Dr. Brandt to move into my apt, and a lifetime’s supply of Jo Malone’s  French Lime Blossom Body Crème.

WHAT’S IN JACQUI’S HANDBAG RIGHT NOW:
Chanel  Glossimer lipgloss,  Makeup Forever Aqua Eyes liner in 14L, Dora the Explorer stickers,  T. LeClerc pressed powder in Banana, keys, iphone, Chanel wallet.

WHAT SONG DOES SHE HEAR PLAYING WHEN SHE WALKS IN THE ROOM:
The wildly-campy THIS IS MY LIFE by Shirley Bassey

WHERE CAN YOU FIND HER NEXT: 
On NY1 News this weekend (all weekend), and a personal appearance on 9/21/11 at the Liberty Science Center in New Jersey between 6.30-.8.30pm. Oh, plus a soon to be published fashion book!

Follow Jacqui on Twitter @Jacqui_Stafford

Read Jacqui’s blog.

Book an appointment with Jacqui and have her re-style you for Fall!

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