Sure, the weather outside may be a little frightful, but we all know that winter can still be a wonderland of fun. The flicks, the sounds, the fashion and the fun will make you glad to be a part of this chilled out season. Here’s our take on how to cool it this winter…
The movies:
Will Smith returns in the dramatic film “Seven Pounds,” playing an IRS agent with a secret who sets out to forever alter the lives of seven strangers. The lovely Rosario Dawson also stars in this mysterious tale.
Babes, babes, and more babes. Eva Mendes, Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johansson and Gabriel Macht help bring the comic “The Spirit” to the big screen. The visually dazzling flick brings to a close what was an amazing year for comic titles that found huge success at the box office.
In “Bride Wars,” Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway play two best friends who turn on each when they find out their weddings were mistakenly booked on the on the same day at their dream venue. Can you say “Uh oh?”
The music:
Enrique Iglesias delivers his “Greatest Hits” to the masses, reminding us why we fell in love with him so many years ago.
Award winning Chicago rockers Fall Out Boy keep their fans waiting no longer with their release of “Folie A Deux”. Translation: A madness shared by two. It usually refers to someone who passes off their symptom of psychosis onto another. Sounds fun.
Call him brash, controversial or just plain brilliant, Kanye West returns with album number four, “808s & Heartbreak.” Guess 10 Grammy Awards just aren’t enough for this talented singer/songwriter/producer.
The pages:
If you’re into dark, and I mean dark, humor you’ve got to check out The Mystic Arts of Erasing All Signs of Death by Charlie Huston. It’s about a former slacker who gets a gig cleaning up after all things dead. And, it only gets stranger and funnier from there.
Love, in all its misery and glory, is taken to new heights in Janice Y. K. Lee’s The Piano Teacher. The epic story takes place in Hong Kong during wartime. We all know love and war just don’t make for a happy cocktail.
Ever did a favor for an ex-boyfriend and lived to regret it? If so, you’ll have no problem relating to Tess Newhart and the lengths she goes to for her ex, over a very long weekend business trip. Read about her questionable yet amusing romantic gestures in Strange Bedpersons by Jennifer Crusie.
The fashion:
Whether you’re going to the big party or just hanging out with your friends, make sure you dress the part, and do it without breaking your budget. You can find great savings without skimping on the style. Here are our top 5 affordable winter picks under 50 bucks:
1. A dressy top is perfect for this time of year because you can dress it down or liven it up. Take the Sequin Spaghetti Top at Forever 21. What’s great about this piece (besides its price at $22.80) is its versatility. Pair it with some denim and a wrap for a night out with the girls or partner it with a simple black skirt or satin pants and heels if it’s all about the party.
2. Speaking of accessories, a clutch is the must have for this season. We love the Anya Hindmarch for Target Clutch in gold/cream. It’s a classic piece that once again, works well with any look. And, for $19.99, it’ll pay for itself the first time you take it out.
3. Your coat tells the world about you so it should represent you to the fullest and keep you warm. Duh! Try one of Old Navy’s Long Quilted Coats. It comes with puff sleeves for a touch of femininity and a detachable faux trimmed hood, all for just $40. Love it!
4. Sweaters are a staple for this season and the cardigan is the queen of all sweaters. They’re wonderful for layering and can pull a look together like no one’s business. For something a little different, grab ELLE’s Poncho Cardigan in either Black Tie or Gray Heather. The long bell sleeves make it easy to wear over any style and its machine washable for easy care. You can find it for $34.99 at Kohls.com. shoppers.
5. One word – shoes. High end designers alice + olivia have designed a few shoe styles for Payless. Their Mary Jane Wedge is out of this world sexy and daring. With a 4.5” platform wedge, they’re not for the timid, but at $21.99 they’re for the supremely stylish savings shoppers.
The scene:
Outdoor ice skating in LA?? Yep. Pershing Square gets a frosty facelift for the annual Downtown On Ice. The rink is open 7 days a week until January 15th so don your skates and cute outfit and make like Kristi Yamaguchi. For more info, call 213.847.4970.
On January 6th celebrate El Museo’s 32nd Annual Three Kings Day Parade in New York with music, programs and costumes. Get into the spirit through the streets of El Barrio from 10am to 1pm. And, on January 10th join in the festivities at the Three Kings Day Presentation at El Museo’s Teatro Heckscher from 3-5pm. For more info, visit ElMuseo.org.
It’s not too late to check out Macy’s Holiday Window display on N. State St. The display will be up until January 11th so if you have a little holiday blues after December, let Macy’s cheer you up.
The Florida Dance Festival: Winterfest is coming to the Miami area starting December 27th until January 3rd. The event takes place in various venues around Miami and features classes, workshops, guest artists and performances. Not to be missed, get more info at 305.547.1117.
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