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MINNEAPOLIS PICKS™ |
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life + style in the Twin Cities
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February 26th, 2010
Okay, we’re officially obsessed with figure skating at the Winter Olympics, which is new for us, as most of our brain power is spent fantasizing about Christian Bale in that Batman outfit (hubba-hubba). But as much as we appreciate the absolute prowess and skill involved in catapulting your body around on ice while balancing on a metal blade, we don’t get the outfits.
Muscled men in feathers? Pink-laced corsets? Skin-tight bib overalls? Ferreals, what’s going on there? It’s like Richard Simmons is in charge of costume design. We’ve been half expecting to see a pair of bedazzled skates out there, to which we say, what the fudge?!? This world is full of top-notch designers. You’d think one of them could take a break from de-skanking Hollywood’s pseudo-starlets and amp up the style of the uber-athletes representing the ol’ U-S-of-A. Ferreals! |
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Minneapolis Picks: |
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Ooh La La!
When one of our best gals showed up for girls’ night looking positively marvelous, we tried to put our finger on what had changed. She always looks great, but suddenly there was something different about her… Was it her lipstick shade? Was that a new dress? We guessed in vain until she finally let us in on her secret: a new bra. What? Even the most spectacular bra can’t make that much of a difference… can it?
Admittedly, we felt bashful upon entering La Bratique, especially in our old, ratty sports bra. But we soon felt at ease, and fell quickly into learning some of the common mistakes women make when choosing their brassieres. Fabulous European brands like Chantelle and Marie Jo were hand-selected for us. The new “fit” felt different against our torso, but as soon as dropped our cotton tee over them we were shocked—we looked amazing.
Ladies—ferreals—head to La Bratique. For about what you’ll pay at the mall, treat yourself to a professional bra fitting, and get ready to look hot every single day!
La Bratique
5007 France Ave. S
Minneapolis, MN 55410
612.325.6620
www.labratique.com |


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Let the Sun Shine In
The sun had come out, and with much excitement, we ventured outside in just our long sleeves. It was a beautiful day for a drive, so we set our sights on Lake Minnetonka. A little birdie had tipped us off to a relatively new-in-town housewares shop in the swanky lakeside town of Wayzata.
As soon as we walked in, d.f.s. Home kicked our sunny mood into overdrive with its fun, color-themed layout. Greens, anyone? Right over there, by the front window. Building on a white-based theme? An entire selection of whites, creams, and beiges to be had in the alcove. Offerings ranged from contemporary to homey, from traditional to mod… truly something for everyone. Local featured artists included photographer George Caswell, with his clever eye for all things botanical, and Bill Mack, a sculptor of hanging art—truly unique pieces. And make sure to check out the soap bar: local, handmade soaps, smelling oh so yummy ... great for the guest bathroom!
So as you’re getting ready to transition your coffee table back into that spring-themed array, hit up d.f.s. Home. You’re sure to find something bright and new!
d.f.s. Home
728 Lake St. E.
Wayzata, MN 55391
612.385.7590
www.designforsalehome.com |


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Food Nirvana
When we asked our husband what he wanted for his birthday, he immediately replied, without hesitation, “Meat.” Not CDs, not a boy’s night out, not even extra nookie. Meat.
After some exhaustive research we surprised him with a trip to The Strip Club.
With its sharp black walls, exposed brick and red-velvet trimmings, this absolute gem of an eatery is a throwback to an old-style supperclub with an ambiance that is both intimate and lively. Their menu boasts a superb selection of top-notch fare and tasty libations that are as creative as they delicious. Small plates of lightly fried, crispy pickled veggies can be found sidled up next to tasty calamari and rich duck confit. Their steaks are cooked to order and to perfection (our man said his rib-eye was the best he’d ever had), while our pan-seared salmon with fennel and artichoke hearts exploded with flavor and smelled absolutely divine—really, that good!
The service was outstanding, and the fact that every seat in the house was filled with smiling patrons who were happily stuffing themselves silly is a testament to The Strip Club’s true greatness.
The Strip Club
378 Maria Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55106
651.793.6247
www.domeats.com |


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Chick Picks: |
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We’ve Got the Beat
Recently our kitty decided to poo right in the middle of our bed. We were totally grossed out, but figured we must have offended her majesty by petting her wrong way or by not giving her her kibble in a timely manner. Regardless, we’re now shopping for bedding.
Enter Luxury Lab and their unique linens. Each set is handmade and dyed, and adorned with a sort of offbeat-meets-modern print (we dig the crows). They are just what we need to erase the memory of our kitty’s bad manners.
www.luxurylablinens.com |
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One Heel of a Deal
From the moment we donned our first pair of Jellies, we’ve been obsessed with shoes. Moccasins, peep-toes, riding boots, heck even flip-flops. So when a pal tipped us off to Shoe Fabulous we darn near dropped dead.
Each month subscribers get a fabulous pair of shoes, hand-selected by celebrity stylists, for a mere 40 bones. Buy one pair or buy five, each pair is only $39.95! Shipping’s always free and you can skip any month and not be charged. How cool is that?
www.shoefab.com
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Style Icons
We can’t remember the last time we wanted something as bad as the pieces from Noir Jewelry. These cheeky, fresh, glamorous designs not only have a unique point of view, but they’re stylish with an edge.
We love the glittery animal designs like Goldie the Elephant, Fig the Flying Pig and Gilda the Goldfish—we want one for every finger. No wonder style-setters like Rihanna, Lady Gaga and Madonna all wear this line—it rocks our world.
www.noirjewelry.com |
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Hip Happenings: |
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A Clean, Mean, (Delicious) Scene
Get ready to partake in some good eats courtesy of Chef Doug Flicker at Gastro Non Grata 13. Delish smoked sturgeon and killer pork meatballs will be served up alongside tasty brews, courtesy of Left Hand Brewing in Colorado. Tons of live music and awesome cupcakes from Cake Eater round out the mix. This party ain’t for everyone!
What: Gastro Non Grata 13
When: Sunday, Feb. 28, 6 pm
Where: Triple Rock Social Club, 1808 S 7th St., Minneapolis
Cost: $7
Visit: www.gastronongrata.com |
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Give and Get
Good deed doers unite for Bibelot’s winter savings! Patrons with a penchant for style who bring in donations of gently used clothing to any of Bibelot’s metro locations will receive a coupon for 20% off any single regular-priced clothing item. All clothing collected will be donated to Arc’s Value Village. Oooh… feel the warm fuzzies!
What: Winter Savings at Bibelot
When: Today–Sunday, Feb. 28
Where: All Bibelot Locations
Visit: www.bibelotshops.com |
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Pretty, We Feel Pretty…
We love sweet new threads, but vintage garb is the ying to our yang, that’s why we’re super stoked for the fab sale at Rewind Vintage. This weekend only style-centric shopppers can score 25% off of a variety of yester-year favorites, perfect for amping up today’s wardrobe. Who loves vintage? We do, we do!
What: Sale at Rewind Vintage
When: Today–Sunday, Feb. 28
Where: 2829 Johnson St. NE., Minneapolis
Call: 612.788.9870
Visit: www.rewindminneapolis.com |
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