DailyCandy Washington, D.C.

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 Hair Trends

2012-02-13T07:00:00Z

Spring 2012 Beauty 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

2012-02-09T08:00:00Z

Washington, D.C., Events and Diversions

Total eclipse of the heart.

PERUSE
Handmade Valentine Mart
What: Swoon over one-of-a-kind trinkets (money clips, jewelry, soaps) made by fifteen local talents at a mini bazaar packed with refreshments, live music, and a craft station.
Why: Hothouse roses leave you cold? Take your sweetheart and drop some hints.
When: Sat., noon-6 p.m.
Where: Nana, 3068 Mount Pleasant St. NW (202-667-6955).

SHAKE
Cupid’s Not Stupid Cocktail Contest
What: Mixologists including Rachel Sergi (Jack Rose) and Simo Ahmadi (Watershed) battle for your boozy affection.
Why: Drink to us only with thine eyes? As if.
When: Fri., 7-10 p.m.
Where: Aria Pizzeria & Bar, Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW (202-312-1250). Tickets ($55 includes snacks, beer, wine, and samples of five elixirs) online at wineandfooddc.com.

WOO
La Saint-Valentin at the Embassy of France
What: A singles’ fete fancied up with a twenty-piece orchestra, DJ, and open bar, plus a sugary buffet of crepes, champagne sorbet, and macarons.
Why: Trip to the City of Lights sans jet lag.
When: Fri., 8 p.m.-midnight.
Where: La Maison Française, 4010 Reservoir Rd. NW (202-944-6400). Tickets ($100) online at instantseats.com.

REGALE
Sucker for Love
What: Nine storytellers unravel meaty tales of love lost, found, and imagined.
Why: It’ll be a page-turner, for sure.
When: Fri. & Sat. Dance party with DJ Glowstik follows Saturday’s performance.
Where: Dance Place, 3225 8th St. NE (202-269-1600). Tickets ($20-$30) online at speakeasydc.com.

ATTEND
Valentine’s Day Is a Drag
What: Delta Dawn and thirteen other queens of hearts work hard for the money, earning tips for LGBT student scholarships with their performances.
Why: If you like it, you should put an onion ring on it.
When: Sat., 6-10 p.m.
Where: 18th & U Duplex Diner, 2004 18th St. NW (202-265-9599). Suggested donation is $20.

PEDAL
Cycle for Survival in Bethesda
What: Kind hearts sign up for this indoor cycling race; join pre-existing teams of four to eight, and keep the wheel spinning for four hours to raise money for Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Why: Fight rare cancers before brunch.
When: Sun., 8 a.m.
Where: Equinox, 4905 Elm St., Bethesda (301-652-1078). Donate online at mskcc.convivio.net.

Photo: Courtesy of Nana

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

2012 Valentine's Day Guide

2012-02-07T08:00:00Z

Gifts Inspired by "The Artist"

Cher Monsieur Valentin,

From the moment we bumped into you, we’ve had stars in our eyes. Wouldn’t sparkly, heart-shaped shoe clips ($25) and a pot of NARS Night Breed ($23) from Bluemercury make the ideal cadeaux? And because the very thought of you warms our heart, let’s linger over boozy hot chocolate at Et Voila.

We’re in a real pickle ($10): You’re a star; we, mere chorus girls. Perhaps it’s better we keep things casual and preorder the heart-shaped Old Bay & Crab pizza at Fuel ($18)?

Imagine us (in sailor-striped espadrilles, $195) walking hand in hand with you in Hollywood — Hollywood, Maryland, that is. We’ll tour Sotterley Plantation and take in the Tidewater scenery before snuggling up at The Inn at Herrington Harbour South (from $150 per night).

So cover our ears with kisses, specifically Lisa Freede’s X and O Huggies ($58), and we’ll show you if our cups runneth over ($98).

Or not. (We’re old-fashioned.) How about a bottle of Violettes de Toulouse with charming tasseled atomizer instead?

We predict a happy ending, but it may be bittersweet. We both want to hear the same three magical words: “Oscar goes to …”

Bisous,
DC

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

Photo: Weinstein Company / Courtesy of Everett Collection

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

2012-02-02T07:00:00Z

Washington, D.C., Events and Diversions

Get low.

SCORE
Old Town Designer Warehouse Sale
What: More than a dozen indie shops (Periwinkle, Treat, The Shoe Hive) and two local designers team up to discount their merch.
Why: Sale away inside a truly monumental pop-up.
When: Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: The George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr., Alexandria.

RUSH
Alpha Phi Alpha’s Step Show
What: The well-known fraternity hosts a percussive dance-off.
Why: Precise drills by cute lettermen will blow your mind.
When: Sat., 7 p.m.
Where: GW Lisner Auditorium, 730 21st St. NW, b/t G & H Sts. (202-994-6800). Tickets ($20) online at ticketmaster.com.

HUDDLE
Phillips After 5: a Valentine to the Arts
What: Find sweet surprises like live jazz, acting classes, and improv games inspired by the Rothko-focused theater production Red at the artsy, after-hours gallery mixer.
Why: Learn the romantic history of founders Duncan and Marjorie Phillips.
When: Thurs., 5-8:30 p.m.
Where: The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St. NW (202-387-2151). Admission is $12. Reservations online at phillipscollection.com.

TACKLE
Love, Politics & Scrabble Opening Reception
What: Art bingo ups the hijinks at the opening of this juried exhibition inspired by the games people play in life — be they board games or power games.
Why: Mind your Ps and Qs when U R in VA.
When: Fri., 7-10 p.m.
Where: Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria (703-838-4827).

KICK IT
Owners Suite Party
What: Catch Super Bowl XLVI on four flat-screens while noshing on lobster tacos and kale chips.
Why: No one at the ladylike boite will give you hell for admiring Tom Brady’s haircut.
When: Sun., 4:30 p.m.
Where: Hudson Restaurant & Lounge, 2030 M St. NW (202-872-8700).

Photo: Rebecca van Ommen / Getty Images

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.

A Homegrown Playlist to Rock Out To

2012-01-31T08:00:00Z

Local Artists Make Some Noise

Duck your head into any dark, smoky club and you’ll hear the DIY aesthetic adopted by early D.C. punk rockers alive and kicking. Show some love for the city’s thriving music scene by turning up these jams from its best bands and DJs.

“Why Should I Get Used to It,” by Joe Lally
(The ex-Fugazi member, pictured, has the bass covered.)

“Warble Factor,” by The Evens
(The coolest couple ever.)

“Mental Anguish Is Your Friend,” by Soccer Team
(Artistic inspiration.)

“Romance,” by Wild Flag
(Never gets old.)

“Beat, Beat, My Heart,” by Vandaveer
(Be still ours.)

“I Feel Fine,” by Arthur Loves Plastic
(Stream her downtempo electro on the snazzy, free app.)

“Stargazer,” by Thievery Corporation
(Press play. Relax. Repeat.)

“Dream Tapes,” by The Hundred Acre Wood
(Our head in the clouds.)

“Sing Your Song,” by The Dance Party
(At the top of your lungs.)

“Sweet Release,” by Wugazi
(A Fugazi/Wu-Tang Clan mash-up so punk rock, it had to be included.)

Photo: Shaun Regan for DailyCandy

A Three-Day Getaway to Vieques

2012-01-30T08:45:00Z