DailyCandy Boston

Heart Parts Eating Utensils

2012-02-13T09:00:00Z

Sweet Tools Meant for Sharing

Dear Cupid,

My only complaint about my beau is that he hogs the grub when we go splitsville. How can I make sure I get my fair share of mac ’n’ cheese?

Yours,
Starving in SF

’Sup Starving,

The answer is simple: Become a heartbreaker with Heart Parts eating utensils.

The florescent, palm-size tools are meant to be cracked in half, then used to stab, scoop, or even cut your nosh of choice. Product designer Fatima Fazal created them to bring the love back to sharing a meal.

Heart Parts come in boxes of ten, so they’re great for parties. Because they’re dishwasher safe, made with 66 percent less plastic than similar wares, and are completely biodegradable, you can enjoy your supper without guilt.

Even if you’re fed up with him, at least you’ll be properly fed.

Xo,
The Guy with the Arrow

Available online at iheart-this.com, $10.

Photo: Courtesy of Heart Parts

Spring 2012 Beauty Trends

2012-02-13T07:00:00Z

Spring 2012 Hair Trends

2012-02-13T07:00:00Z

(Not So) Bitter, Party of One

2012-02-10T08:00:00Z

Spring 2012 Trends: Stripes

2012-02-10T07:00:00Z

The Weekend Guide

2012-02-09T09:00:00Z

Online Finds, Fashions, and Fodder

V-Day isn’t just for lovers.

EAT
Cakeslider Creations
What: Redefined push-up pops ($22 for a basket of four) layered with cake and frosting. Treat yourself to inspired flavors (French toast, latte, Double Fudge Diamond) that arrive in festive packaging and allow you to (finally) eat cake hands free.
Why: They’re utterly moist. Yeah, we said it.
Where: Online at cakeslidercreations.com.

WEAR
Milly for Sperry
What: All aboard. The NY-based designer brings her colorful, playful prints to the famous Top-Sider brand ($90-$225).
Why: Vibrant patent leather yellow flats or navy wedges, as well as rose-print, laceless canvas sneakers.
Where: Online at sperrytopsider.com.

COLLECT
The Good Machinery Animal Figurines
What: We’re wild about the collectibles ($59-$69) painted by an Italian artist. Gift them to others or stash them in nooks and crannies for a splash of color.
Why: A howling silver wolf, hippo with fuchsia polka dots, and lion in magenta and gold are just part of the herd.
Where: Online at etsy.com.

SUPPORT
Spanx Lace Bra-llelujah
What: The best boulder holder ($68) in the world just got sexy. It smooths your back and lifts the ladies the same as before, but now with lace cups (in nude or black).
Why: The bra may have had a little work done; you’ll just look like you did.
Where: Online at spanx.com.

SWEAT
Electric Yoga Sportswear
What: French-born tanks, stretch pants, and zip-ups ($24-$198) from Bisou Bisou designer-turned-master yogi Michele Bohbot.
Why: Neon colors activate specified chakras. Light-as-air bubble coats pack down into mini carrying cases and use your own body heat to keep you toasty.
Where: Online at electric-yoga.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Cakeslider Creations

The Weekend Guide

2012-02-09T07:45:00Z

Boston Events and Diversions

Form over function.

SEE
In Form
What: Consider what was and what could have been at a 50-year retrospective of forward-thinking Boston architectural designs both realized and imagined.
Why: Check out the sleek new BSA Space (the lime green staircase is a mind-blower).
When: Fri.-Aug. 31. Daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 290 Congress St., ste. 200, Fort Point (617-391-4039). Free.

ENJOY
Sex at the Zoo
What: Birds do it, bees do it, but find out why and how during a stimulating lecture on the Wild Kingdom’s mating and relationship habits (hint: They’ve got the courtship thing down).
Why: A rare chance to drink wine and gawk at gorillas.
When: Fri., 6-8:30 p.m.
Where: Franklin Park Zoo, Tropical Forest Pavillion, 1 Franklin Park Rd., Dorchester (617-541-5466). Tickets ($20-$35) online at franklinparkzoo.org.

SLURP
Mare Oyster Bar Opens
What: Frank DePasquale reinvents his coastal Italian restaurant as a bivalve destination shucking regionally sourced oysters and a more seafood-centric menu of hiramasa ceviche, truffle-crusted tuna, and hot and cold lobster rolls.
Why: The decadent bacon cheddar burger creates an omnivore’s ordering dilemma.
When: Opens Fri. Tues.-Fri. & Sun., 4-11 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Where: 135 Richmond St., North End (617-723-6273).

MEET
Annie Selke at Hudson
What: The local Dash & Albert rug proprietor signs copies of her cheery new book, Fresh American Spaces ($45), which offers tips on cultivating inviting home aesthetics.
Why: Dig on Hudson’s new digs (and spring stock) while enjoying Buttery cupcakes and cava from Brix.
When: Sat., 1-4 p.m.
Where: 12 Union Park St., South End (617-292-0900).

LEAVE
Vermont Wine and Chocolate Weekend
What: Condense your getaway and V-Day desires into one 36-hour smorgasbord of New England sips (mead, wine, ice cider, cassis) paired with winery-made sweets like triple-chocolate balls and cherry brownies.
Why: You sorta maybe forgot to book a table for Tuesday.
When: Sat. & Sun., noon-5 p.m.
Where: Go to vermontgrapeandwinecouncil.com for participating wineries. Tastings are free.

Photo: Courtesy of Over, Under

New and Noteworthy: Reading Notes Book Inserts

2012-02-08T09:00:00Z

A Cure for Digital Fatigue

Patient Name: E. Post

Symptoms: Digital fatigue. Indecipherable shorthand. Attempts to touch-screen activate all shiny surfaces within reach.

Diagnosis: Pen-to-paper withdrawal.

Treatment: Reading Notes palm-size notebooks.

Modeled after old-fashioned library cards, the self-adhering pamphlets stick to the insides of book covers, ensuring they’ll never be lost, forgotten, or deleted in the wake of a Words with Friends bender. The mini journals can lend clarity to random margin scrawlings, gravity to tawdry beach reads, and relief to texting thumbs.

Front and back flaps cover the basics (where the book was read, a one-to-five-star rating system). Thirty-two tiny pages can be filled with any other ramblings, rants, or rave reviews that are too private to share on a Twitter feed, Tumblr post, or Facebook page.

Dosage: Whenever it feels novel.

Available online at pleasetakenotes.com, $16 for three.

Photo: Matthew Latkiewicz / Courtesy of Reading Notes

Spring 2012 Trends: Into the Ocean

2012-02-08T07:00:00Z

Spring 2012 Trends: Metallics

2012-02-08T07:00:00Z

Show Your Valentine(s) How Much You Care

2012-02-07T07:45:00Z

Gifts with Rhyme and Reason

You make a beautiful couplet.

You’re both so alike, even your dry skin’s a match.
Soothe those scales with truffled cream — a his-and-her batch.

His three-second rubdowns leave much to be desired.
A couples massage class will get you both reinspired.

That dress shirt you gave him was last year’s gift dud.
Lure it out with custom cuff links for your still-style-free bud.

A sexpot you’re not, but you’ll give it a go.
Back-seamed thigh-highs cue your inner Bardot.

Your dude’s a real sweetie, but a little debauched.
A crosshaired mirror means he’ll always be watched.

His moves of choice: shopping cart and lawn mower.
Five hip-hop lessons later, his David Brent days are over.

Your weekend warrior’s limbs are tighter than a drum.
A body-rolling session should make his IT band hum.

Sweets for your sweet? Back off, our friend.
Salted turtles and cocoa cookies should be shared to the end.

But your true Valentine? Why, that would be yourself.
And such a stunning babe deserves a cocktail ring that’s top-shelf.

Read on for more Valentine’s Day ideas that make us weak in the knees.

Photo: Garry Gay / Getty Images

Valentine's Day Heart Stealers

2012-02-07T06:30:00Z

Painted Shoes with Sole

2012-02-06T09:00:00Z

The Office of Angela Scott Footwear

From the OkCupider who stood you up for bocce (classic body snatch) to your go-to brow lady (who’s also “kinda psychic”), everybody’s got a story.

A tale actually worth spreading? That of The Office of Angela Scott.

This week the designer launches an online boutique full of Italian-crafted shoes with personae as colorful as their painted uppers and soles.

Mrs. and Mr. Smith (her, a proper heel; him, a flat oxford) are a traditional-looking pair — until you read into their flaming pink stripes.

Prim Miss Wright lace-ups and Mrs. Seymour saddle shoes tell a saucier saga than their traditional counterparts, and Mr. Oliver equestrian boots are finished in quirky canvas. (Here’s hoping the red, white, and blue Americana edition becomes a permanent fixture.)

Whatever she’s selling, we’re buying.

Available online at theofficeofangelascott.com, $350-$825.

Photo: Jessica Watts / Courtesy of The Office of Angela Scott

Screen Play: February's Must-See Movies

2012-02-03T08:30:00Z

The Weekend Guide

2012-02-02T09:00:00Z

Online Finds, Fashions, and Fodder

Low-impact weekending.

PLAN
Low-Commitment Projects
What: There’s no need to DTR here. Two cute, bicoastal BFFs post lazy-day projects each Monday to please even the most flighty DIYers.
Why: Serve Mondrian-inspired sandwiches, fashion fake self-help book covers (Eat Your Way Thin), and more.
Where: Online at lowcommitmentprojects.com.

SHOP
Eaton Trading Company
What: Men’s and women’s fashions, bags, jewelry and accessories from the likes of A.P.C., Band of Outsiders, Steven Alan, Rag & Bone, and Rachel Comey.
Why: DC readers get 30 percent off site-wide (and an additional 30 percent off sale items) with code VALENTINE thru Sun.
Where: Online at stores.eatontradingcompany.com.

SET
Palace Dinnerware
What: Unfortunately, Will and Kate can’t make it to supper. Save face by serving your meal with black and white plates, cups, bowls, and platters that, when assembled, transform into classic palaces ($75-$529).
Why: Seven-piece sets stack up like Russian dolls for eye-catching storage or display.
Where: Online at shop.thefutureperfect.com.

EAT
Typocolate
What: Milk and dark chocolate bars ($20 for two) engraved with irreverent typographic messages (Best Day Ever, Oui? Oui.) that spell out your feelings.
Why: Food should always be art.
Where: Available for preorder at shop.godynamo.com.

SUPPORT
Mulu
What: A new social sharing site with a charitable twist. Post what you like (clothing, toys, gadgets), and when people buy your picks, a percentage of the proceeds goes to your choice cause.
Why: Join the cerebral-ebrity ranks of Jonathan Franzen (for the American Bird Conservancy) and Toni Collette (Doctors Without Borders).
Where: Online at mulu.me.

Photo: Courtesy of Low-Commitment Projects

The Weekend Guide

2012-02-02T07:45:00Z

Boston Events and Diversions

Game on.

CHEER
The Owner’s Sweet Cupcakes
What: Show your team spirit by taking 75 game-enders, dipped in Patriots-colored sprinkles and topped with fondant jerseys, one for every player ($300).
Why: Players available a la carte ($4.25); we vote for the frosting-hooded Belichick (to be eaten in ecstasy/agony).
When: Sets must be ordered by Fri.; a la carte cupcakes available thru Sun.
Where: Locations online at sweetcupcakes.com. Order by calling 617-247-2253 or online.

Super Bowl Takeout from Sweet Cheeks
What: Spoil your guests with a smoky smorgasbord of wings (sticky and Buffalo), chicken tenders, and hot dogs with fixings like chili and green-tomato relish ($200).
Why: Less cooking, more cheering for Tom and Co.
When: Available thru Sun. (order early).
Where: 1381 Boylston St., The Fenway. Call 617-266-1300 to order.

LISTEN
Ladyfest Boston
What: More than 25 woman-fronted bands (Girlfriends, Cotton Candy, Sick Fix) rock out during a three-day riot grrrl gala to promote female artists.
Why: Cool-chick workshops on drumming and autobiographical comics.
When: Fri., 5-10 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
Where: Cambridge YMCA, 820 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square (617-661-9622). Tickets ($15-$35) online at ladyfestboston.com.

SWEETEN
Follow the Honey Dinner
What: Buzz over to UpStairs on the Square for an ambrosial four-course feast of honeycomb-topped scallops, clementine-dusted duckling, and white-gold panna cotta with organic nectar sourced from the nearby shop ($48).
Why: Loosen up, hon, with added wine pairings ($70).
When: Tonight, 6:30 p.m.
Where: 91 Winthrop St., Harvard Square. Call 617-864-1933 for reservations.

MANGEZ
Chez L’Ami Louis at No. 9 Park
What: Experience old-time Parisian dining during a repas magnifique of foie gras terrine, classic roasted chicken, and grapefruit tarte chased with a half-bottle of wine ($75).
Why: That France vacation ain’t happening until the euro crashes.
When: Sun., 5:30-10 p.m.
Where: 9 Park St., Beacon Hill. Call 617-742-9991 for reservations.

Photo: Michael Blanchard / Courtesy of Sweet

How to Massage Your Dog

2012-02-01T09:00:00Z

Buddha Dog's Canine Masseuse Shows Us the Proper Technique

Dear Mom,

You think it’s easy dozing most of the day, begging for biscuits, nipping at your heels, and barking at squirrels?

Okay, it is. But that doesn’t mean I don’t want a massage, like the one certified animal masseuse Pam Holt gives to our L.A. editor’s best friend, Agnes, in today’s video.

All it takes is a little kneading and gentle stretching on your part to give me improved flexibility, energy, and overall happiness. Plus, it’ll help my anxiety. (I know I sometimes get a little cray cray when you leave.)

Also, can I have a treat? Please and thanks.

Love,

Spartacus Brownie Von Lickety Jones Jr.

P.S. I accidentally humped the cat yesterday.

For more information about Pam Holt and dog massage, go to buddhadog.com.

Lingerie Show and Tell

2012-01-31T09:00:00Z

Underpinnings You'll Want to Show Off

Unmentionables worth mentioning.

	Treasure Chest Forgo the over-the-top, enhanced-cleavage look and display your true assets in an Only Hearts translucent bralette ($55).

	Show Off Peeping undies are acceptable when they’re as cute as VPL’s glam boy shorts ($115). Make them the statement piece of your outfit.

	Romp and Roll The T-strap halter and sheer detailing flirt with the drawstring waist and full-coverage bottom of Good Night Gilda’s silk romper ($180).

	Dressing Gown After a bath or just lounging about, Josie Natori’s Eastern-inspired floral number ($35) makes us feel even more relaxed.

	She’s Tricky Ask and you shall deceive: Easy-on sheer tights ($20) have all the wow of a complex thigh-highs-and-garter combo.

Now that we’ve got you in the mood, click for more lovely lingerie.

Three Super Bowl Cocktail Recipes

2012-01-31T07:45:00Z

Four Quarters of Stress-Busting Booze

Fourth-quarter turnovers, last-second strips, and one terrifying ankle turn: Even in victory, that AFC Championship matchup left your nerves — and your beer supply — in tatters.

No doubt about it, Sunday’s game will require strong salves. Ever the team players, Bully Boy Distillers’s Will and Dave Willis have drawn up three Super Bowl cocktails to defend against 60 minutes of pigskin jitters.

May the Eli haranguing flow as freely.

The Kickoff
Serves one

2 oz. Bully Boy vodka
3 oz. Narragansett Lager beer
4 oz. tomato juice
Salt to taste
1 dill pickle spear

1. Mix liquid ingredients and a dash of salt in a highball glass with ice.

2. Garnish with pickle.

The Halftime Hooch
Serves one

2 oz. Bully Boy white whiskey
½ oz. fresh lemon juice
½ tsp. sugar
Ginger ale
Angostura bitters

1. Stir all ingredients, except ginger ale, in a mixing glass with cracked ice.

2. Strain into a highball glass over ice.

3. Top with ginger ale and stir again.

4. Finish with 3 splashes of Angostura bitters.

The Hail Mary (because we all know it’s coming down to the wire)
Serves one

1½ oz. Bully Boy white rum
1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
½ tsp. simple syrup
Champagne or sparkling wine

1. Combine rum, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.

2. Strain into a chilled white wine glass.

3. Top off with celebratory (we hope) champagne.

For more information and locations, go to bullyboydistillers.com. For more Super Bowl recipes, check out these.

Photo: Courtesy of Bully Boy

A Three-Day Getaway to Vieques

2012-01-30T08:45:00Z