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  MINNEAPOLIS PICKS
  life + style in the Twin Cities
March 13th, 2009

Why is it that some gals exude a natural beauty? A graceful and mesmerizing inner glow that makes them positively shine, while others (okay, us) battle fuzz-prone hair, brittle nails, arm waddles and blemishes? We are in our thirties! Just when exactly are we going to grow out of our “awkward stage” as our Mothers promised? Forty? Fifty?! When the crow’s feet stop tip-toeing across our face and start stomping?

To soothe our fragile egos, there’s always shopping. In fact, we highly recommend taking that $20 you’ve been hiding in your Thesaurus and spending it this weekend at a local boutique. Treat yourself to a little something special, and stimulate our local economy! Win-win!

       
 

Minneapolis Picks:

 
  1

Puttin’ On Our Fancy Pants

We can’t think of anything better than sleeping in on a Saturday morning and waking up with nada on our usually jam-packed agenda. On such special days, we take the time to dress in our most casual yet cute ensemble, phone a friend, and hook up for lunch and some winter-evading window-shopping at the hip Edina Galleria.

Of course, our idea of window-shopping is just regular shopping without the urgency for a new dress or shoes. Naturally, one of our first stops is the staple-stocked shop H.O.B.O. There is a reason customers repeatedly peruse their racks—the bevy of basics from Three Dots, Michael Stars and Hanky Panky (the beloved line of luxe undergarments). We found solace in Sanctuary khakis, cuddled up to the comfy cotton sweaters from Repeat, and felt carefree in the flirty-floaty skirts from Dean Allen.

In addition to equipping us with these essentials before we rolled out, our latest visit had us rockin’ a relaxed, zipper-laced leather jacket by Blur—the perfect finishing piece for our not-a-care-in-the-world weekend wardrobe!

H.O.B.O.
3490 Galleria
Edina, MN 55435
952.926.3034

       
  2

Rebel Yell

When it comes to babies, why is it always pastels? Pretty pinks, baby blues, sea greens and sunshine yellows seem to be the only options for bundles of joy. But what if your little one has a wild side? We’ve got a solution for parents (aunties, uncles, grandparents and friends, too) whose favorite tot who likes to rock out with their diaper out.

Enter Rebel Ink Baby. This spot has everything your little rock and roller needs. We love the clever and cheeky sayings on their onesies. From “Party at My Crib 3am” to “I’m Pooping Right Now” and “Beastie Babies: Licensed to Spill,” your kid is bound to be the talk of the sandbox. They’ve also got tees for toddlers, pacifiers and stocking caps. And nearly everything is in black and white—not a pink or blue in sight.

Drop by their St. Paul shop (where you’ll find lots of cool apparel for moms and dads, too), or visit them online. Rock on.

Rebel Ink Baby
1593 Selby Ave.
Saint Paul, MN 55104
651.647.0655
www.rebelinkbaby.com

       
  3

Hey, Jealousy

We don’t like to admit it, but sometimes we hate our best friend (we know, that sounds very bad). But, seriously, you would hate her too… she has the perfect man, two adorable kids, and a dog that obeys her every command. So what’s a love-you-to-death, but slightly bitter BFF to do?

The only thing a girl can do… redecorate! Enter CocoBello—our saving grace for better-than-you interior design. Located in the Hudson, WI, CocoBello prides itself on customizing your home interior with satisfaction guaranteed. Not only will the owner give you step-by-step advice, but her storefront provides easy access to all the decorative must-haves. We’re talking sparkling chandeliers, colorful artwork, modern chairs and tables, conversation-inspiring centerpieces and eco-chic accessories. And if the world of fabrics, materials, and finishes sounds as scary as “Jaws 3,” worry not, CocoBello works with a stellar design team of vendors and contractors so won’t have to think twice about constructing anything.

Forget jealousy—an uber-hot condo is the perfect single-in-the-city accessory. Mention Minneapolis Picks and get 15% off!

CocoBello and CocoBello Interiors
411 Second St.
Hudson, WI  54016
715.381.3433

       
  Chick Picks:  
  1

Raise Your Glass

We were more than slightly embarrassed when we hosted our family for dinner… only to realize moments before chow time that we didn’t have enough dishes to make a matching set. Thank the Style Gods for Clio Home!

Featuring an intricately honed selection of tabletop temptations from around the world, this top-notch site includes a gorgeous assortment of Finnish mugs in eye-popping prints, hand-blown glass, chic linens, and modern place settings. We dare you to leave empty handed!

www.clio-home.com

       
  2

Bollywood Baby
 
Thanks to “Slumdog Millionaire’s” soulful storytelling and evocative premise, we’re sure of two things: Freida Pinto will become a household name, and a healthy dose of Bollywood chic will be evident in all things beauty and style-related… including our jewelry choices.

We love the Indian-glam of the sparkly Sunflower Earrings we spied at Ethnic Rocks, and their wooden bangles emblazoned with gems and stones exude a romantic and organic vibe that we can’t get enough of.

www.ethnicrocks.com

       
  3

Lover Come Back

We’ve had our hearts broken so many times it’s almost comical. When are we going to get it right? Are we picking the wrong guys? Do we expect too much? Are we just too hard to please?

We’re happy to forget it all for a pair of adorable “Big Shameless Love” earrings from Betsy & Iya. These adorable, affordable beauties will certainly make up for all those teardrops on our pillows. Who says we’re not lucky in love?

Betsy& Iya Jewelry

       
 

Hip Happenings:

 
  1

Do Good, Drink Beer

Our love of beer runs deep, so you don’t have to ask us twice to belly up to a pint in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. If you’re of like mind, don’t miss the fabu Patty’s Day fun sponsored by local brewery Finnegans, including parties, beer specials, and Irish-themed frivolity. 100% of profits benefit local charities.

What: Finnegans’ St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl and Festivities
When: Now–Tuesday, March 17
Where: Various metro locations
Visit: www.finnegans.org

       
  2

Wonder Years Done Right

We were socially awkward in high school and as such neglected to score a date to the Prom, so as adults we’re gung-ho on any party that gives us cause to shine ourselves up. Enter the 1st Annual Spring Formal at The Lounge. Tasty drinks and an uber-swank vibe make this a must-do!

What: The 1st Annual Spring Formal
When: Saturday, March 21, 9 pm
Where: The Lounge, 411 Second Ave. N., Minneapolis
Visit: www.theloungempls.com

       
  3

Give a Little Love

We’re suckers for a worthy cause, and if said do-goodery scores us a discount at Bibelot we say all the better! Now through March 31, customers who donate non-perishable food items or make a cash/check donation to MN FoodShare will receive 20% off of one item at Bibelot the day of donation (sorry, no discount combos). Feel the warm fuzzies!

What: Bibelot and Minnesota Foodshare’s March Campaign
When: Ongoing–March 31
Where: All of Bibelot’s metro locations
Visit: www.bibelotshops.com

       
 

Help us support our local retailers and keep the Twin Cities’ economy rolling like thunder! Just sign up a friend at www.MinneapolisPicks.com. There… don’t you feel better already?

       
 
 

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