APRIL 2010
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AU NATURALE GO BARE
A PURFUMED LIFE FRANCIS KURKDJIAN FRESH BEAUTY SPRING BASICS
SURVIVOR + CHAMPION
P. 20 ANGELA ROSE P. 26 TYTANIA ROSE
DESIGNER + HUMANITARIAN WHERE RUNWAY MEETS REALITY, STYLE MEETS SUBSTANCE + HAUTE MEETS HEART™ www.meinfocusmag.com
ME: IN FOCUS STUDIO SPACE Our 2,500 sq. ft open industrial loft space is perfect for a variety of creative purposes Including: photoshoots, exhibitions, rehearsals, classes and workshops. Our studio space offers a full-length runway, perfect for any fashion show. For space rental and custom inquiries, contact: christine@meinfocusmag.com 773 935 9888 www.meinfocusstudios.com
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ME :IN FOCUS MAGAZINE + STUDIOS
CONTENTS 6 Scenes: Where We’ve Been and What We’ve Been Doing Since Last Issue
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Calendar: ‘Mother Earth’ Painting by Tytania Rose
Under the Tuscan Sun: Fashion Designer Concetta Cipriano of Cettina
18 Earth Day, April 22: Celebrate in Style with all the Green Goodies the City has to Offer
20 PAVE (Promoting Awareness, Victim Empowerment): Founder and Executive Director Angela Rose Shares Her Story of Survival
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FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Bian ‘Bee’ Li
EDITORIAL EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Iya Bakare CONTRIBUTORS Missy LaForge Kerry Sayers INTERN Valencia Davis
PROMOTIONS & EVENTS
CREATIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Bian Li DESIGN DIRECTOR Diana Dittmer DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Rod Roberts CREATIVE CONSULTANTS Alex Albrecht Ricardo Ford
DIRECTOR Christine Nicholls
ADMINISTRATIVE EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Ashley Brodarick
Fitness: Spring into a New Fitness Routine
26 Tytania Rose: Designer + Humanitarian
ON THE COVER
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Lisa Mikolajewicz
The Nang Fah Project: Saving Tribes, Saving Women with Founder Tytania Rose
Our cover model Lisa goes simple with garden inspired looks by Cettina.
32 Spring Beauty: Color Basics with Makeup Artist Veronica Saucedo
Photo by Kayoua Xiong
34 A Perfumed Life: Master Perfumer Francis Kurkdjian Shares His Inspirations
CONTACTS ADVERTISING adsales@meinfocusmag.com christine@meinfocusmag.com CONTENT editor@meinfocusmag.com SUBSCRIPTIONS subscribe@meinfocusmag.com SUBMISSIONS submissions@meinfocusmag.com GENERAL INQUIRIES info@meinfocusmag.com info@meinfocusstudios.com www.meinfocusmag.com www.meinfocusstudios.com
38 Jet Set: Second Stop in our Thailand Series: Chiang Mai
42 Spring Recipe: Step Into Flair with a Delicious Recipe for Vanilla Poached Peach with French Butter Cake
STYLE ME. ENTERTAIN ME. INFORM ME. INDULGE ME. INSPIRE ME. EMPOWER ME.™ For single issue or subscription purchases, please visit: www.meinfocusmag.com/monthly-issues
44 Buzz: Blogs We Love and Film Review of Our Family Wedding by Chick Flick Reviews
45 Hot Spots: Places to Go + People to See
Copyright© 2010 Me: IN FOCUS/The LB Group LLC. All Rights Reserved. All text, images, graphics and other materials in this publication and the website are subject to the copyright and other intellectual property rights of Me: IN FOCUS/ The LB Group LLC and other respective contributors, affiliates and/or submitters. These materials may not be reproduced, distributed, modified or reposted to other publications or websites without the express written permission of Me: IN FOCUS/The LB Group LLC or other respective copyright holders. The photos on the following pages of this issue, unless otherwise credited, are copyrighted property of The LB Group LLC and express written permission must be granted for any usage. Any photos not noted above, and not specifically credited, are obtained from publicly shared/open license sources and/or databases. The marks appearing in this publication and/or the website including, but not limited to: (i) The LB Group LLC; and (ii) Me: IN FOCUS and its respective logos, images, emblems, phrases, slogans, designs, and mottos; are trademarks of The LB Group LLC, its brands and affiliates. The information contained herein is designed to be as contextual and factual as possible, per our best efforts and the information and/or resources available and/or provided to us at the time. We reserve the right, however, to make changes at any time, without notice, in the editing of the publication therein for clarity, brevity, content, and purpose. Some links and/or contact information provided in this publication may lead to websites and/or establishments/businesses by independent third party owners. The information presented therein is the sole responsibility of those independent third party owners. The LB Group LLC and Me: IN FOCUS have no control or responsibility for the content of independent sites and/or nature of third party establishments/businesses and we provide these links and/or contact information to our readers solely for their convenience.
EDITOR’S LETTER BIAN ‘BEE’ LI SHARES HER THOUGHTS
Dear Readers, As I write this, I’m getting cabin fever. After the usual harsh Chicago winter, the sun is out, the temperature is up and people are coming out of hibernation and flocking outside. As we enjoy the warmer weather, we remember how much we appreciate the simple pleasures of Spring- the greening of the grass, wearing sundresses, going barefoot in the park, soaking up the sun, changing our wardrobe, and a livening of spirits as we look forward to being outside and active. These casual comforts are what we tried to capture in our April issue, from the Tuscan garden inspired dresses of Cettina to au naturale beauty hues to the happy childhood memories and feminine nuances evoked in the scents of master perfumer Francis Kurkdjian.
Photograph by Ricardo Ford, Makeup by Hena Hyder
With Earth Day around the corner, we take time to appreciate our environment as we check out the many green initiatives around the city and spotlight the women who are working hard to make the planet a better place for other women, from rape survivor Angela Rose’s courageous advocacy of victims of sexual violence to handbag designer Tytania Rose’s founding of The Nang Fah Project to help young girls in Thailand. Socially-conscious, environmentally-aware, substantive, casual, fun, flirty, pink, coral, green, floral…April is all these things and more. Now I’m off to enjoy the sunshine. Till next time… Be good.
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SCENES ME: IN FOCUS OUT & ABOUT & ON THE TOWN! Where we’ve been and what we’ve been doing since last issue
BEHIND THE SCENES: above, far right: Photographer Kayoua Xiong, Designer Concetta Cipriano and Model Lisa Mikolajewicz during the photoshoot for this issue.
SNEAK PEAK: Plus size model shoot featuring designer Tennille White. Her widely popular Spring/ Summer collection was most recently featured on BET’s Rip the Runway.
The Tchaikovsky Ballet Theatre’s ‘Sleeping Beauty’ came to the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University on March 20th and 21.
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Parisian Master Purfumer Francis Kurkdjian visits Chicago and sits down for an interview with Editor Bee Li.
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‘MOTHER EARTH’ BY TYTANIA ROSE
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STYLE ME. ENTERTAIN ME. INFORM ME. INDULGE ME. INSPIRE ME. EMPOWER ME.™
Hug a Friend Day
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American Cancer Society Month
Midwest Film Festival
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
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Celebrate Diversity Month
World Health Day
Earth Day
Tax Day
African American Women’s Fitness Month
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Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month
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18th Annual ‘Green + Growing’ Fair
Pets Are Wonderful Month
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Community Service Month
National Honesty Day
Shakespeare’s Birthday
Slavery Abolishment Day
Encourage a Young Writer Day
International Children’s Book Day
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PHOTOGRAPHY
Kayoua Xiong www.kxphotography.com CLOTHING
Cettina www.cettinadesigns.com
UNDER THE TUSCAN SU INTERVIEW WITH CONCETTA CIPRIANO OF CETTINA
STYLIST
Concetta Cipriano HAIR + MAKEUP
Veronica Saucedo www.veronicasaucedo.com
With dresses made-to-order a available on her website, Con turning 25 this month, is excit unveil her Spring/Summer 201 at the end of April
Concetta Cipriano
“ON A RECENT TRIP TO TUSCANY, I found myself standing before a 16th century classical fountain adorned with statues and beautiful creatures. Figures of women forever immortalized. The structure was impeccable. I continued down the path. Cream colored pebbles underneath my feet. Now the fountain's running water was just a faint sound in the background. The perfect backdrop to what I was about to see next. Immediately I was captivated by the colors. Tuscan stone walls wrapped around the garden. Small patches of violet and bold yellow flowers brushed up against
my ankles. As I looked directly forward all I could see was the vast greenery of plant life, slightly dried and yellowed by the vivid Tuscan sun, yet still amazingly beautiful. Above me was the blue sky as I had never seen it before. No beginning, no end. Just a perfect veil over the beauty beneath. It was truly a labyrinth of art. Each corner I turned brought more mystery to the next. As a stood there in the middle of something so wondrous, my inspiration was clear. This lavish garden had both structure and softness. I myself in the midst of such a marvelous place was bringing Modern to the Classic. Blurring the lines between Old and New. My 2010 Spring/Summer Collection was developed by this experience. With each piece from this collection, I hope to bring you the magic I felt as I walked through those winding paths of that garden in Tuscany.� -Concetta Cipriano, Designer for Cettina
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and ncetta, ted to 10 line
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BEE: What inspired you to become a designer? CONCETTA: For as long as I can remember, I have loved designing and drawing. I remember making clothes for my dolls when I was still in grammar school. My mother also sews and when I was younger, I enjoyed watching and learning from her. Design is something that has always been a part of my life. It’s something that I love to do and I can’t see myself doing anything else. BEE: What inspires your designs, specifically the colors and patterns? CONCETTA: As a whole, my designs are always very feminine. I always try to create
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to use that moment or object and recreate that same feeling and mood in my line.
entino because I think they make absolutely beautiful clothing.
BEE: Any unique perspective of the industry being a young designer?
BEE: Describe your experience entering the fashion industry. How easy or difficult was it for you?
CONCETTA: I wouldn’t say I get intimidated by any aspects of the industry. Of course there are some levels of anxiety whenever I do something for the first time, especially when those around you have more experience, but I try not to let that bother me. Everyone starts out somewhere and stressing only prevents you from moving forward.
clothing that would make women feel beautiful with silhouettes that compliment their bodies. As far as the overall aesthetic of each collection, it really depends on what inspires me at the moment and time. I also have a background in art, so a lot of my inspiration comes from art, art history and nature. I don’t think it’s possible to force inspiration for a collection; it’s something that you just feel. Whenever I come across something that strikes me and I can’t stop thinking about it, I know I have
BEE: Who do you look up to in the fashion industry? CONCETTA: This is always the most difficult question for me to answer because there are so many designers that I love and have enormous respect for. Everyone is so different too, so it makes it impossible to compare. If I have to choose I would say of course Coco Chanel because she was a fashion pioneer, and is one of the most recognizable and well-known women’s designers to this day. As far as current designers, I love Oscar de la Renta and Val-
CONCETTA: I would say it was difficult at first. Right after I graduated from college, I had hopes of instantly working as a Chicago designer, but didn’t know what to do or where to begin. I was waiting for the perfect moment to start my line, but it never seemed like the right time. Luckily, I quickly realized that opportunities to showcase my work were not just going to appear out of nowhere; I had to go out and find them. I made my samples and tried to get involved in as many events as possible and started meeting a lot of amazing people. Things just started taking off from there and got a lot easier.
CONCETTA’S INSPIRATION I have a background in art, so a lot of my inspiration comes from art, art history and nature.
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BEE: What lessons are you learning from the industry? CONCETTA: Nothing comes easy, and in order to be successful in this industry, you need to work hard. On the other hand, I think the fashion industry is one of the most exciting and fun industries to be a part of. I am constantly learning and trying to work with as many people as I can so I can from them. Hopefully they will be able to learn something from me too.
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BEE: What advice would you give aspiring and emerging fashion designers? CONCETTA: Be prepared to work hard, be patient and as cliché as it may sound, don’t give up. It isn’t always going to be easy, but if it’s something you love and are truly passionate about, it really is worth it. There are few things better than seeing your work pay off and your dreams become reality.
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BEE: What is your personal style and how is it similar or different from what you design? CONCETTA: I don’t know if I have an exact ‘style’ that I stick to daily, although currently I absolutely love sweaters and cardigans and wear them almost everyday! The way I dress really depends on my mood or how I feel at the time. However, I have noticed that I tend to wear the colors or dress similarly to the collection I am working with at the moment. Each collection becomes a part of me and my life, so I think it’s inevitable that the lines between my own style and clothing I design for Cettina become blurred.
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BEE: What are your plans for Cettina in the future? CONCETTA: I hope to continue to grow both in my business and as a designer. So far, I have mainly been focusing on women’s cocktail dresses and casual dresses, but I am planning to launch a more casual separates collection by next year. I would love to open up my own boutique some day as well.
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Photograph by Bian Li www.meinfocusstudios.com
Photograph by Bian Li www.meinfocusstudios.com
EARTH DAY APRIL 22 ALL THINGS ECO Celebrate in style with all the green goodies the city has to offer ALL PHOTOGRAPHS OBTAINED FROM COMPANY WEBSITES
Marissa Strassel Design specializes in web design, branding and strategy for sustainabilityminded, wellness-focused, social changemaking organizations. www.marissastrasseldesign.com
DO YOUR PART Every little bit helps! Stay environmentally friendly by leaving your car at home twice a week (take advantage of the CTA!). Run your dishwasher on full loads only, pre-rinse free, as well as using environmentally friendly cleansing products such as Seventh Generation, Arbour Environmental and Buy Green.
www.seventhgeneration.com www.arbourshop.com www.buygreen.com
PIVOT BOUTIQUE
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CONNECT
Visit this online boutique for the earth conscious and fashion forward ladies to ensure you’re well-dressed for this year’s Earth Day events. Created in 2007, Pivot features more that 50 designers from Lara Miller, Good Society, She Bible and others.
This Wicker Park clothing store was birthed from the sustainable street fashion clothing line Nau. Chicago Connect houses collections of innovative wired jewelry to fashionable organic separates. Appealing to a wide variety of artistic personas, Connect is owned by three creative minds: Ian, Mark and Peter who strive to keep the origins of Nau clothing alive.
Kate Organic Sasha Dress $65 www.pivotboutique.com
1330 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago 773 360 1520 www.connect-chicago.com
GREENEXCHANGE/VAUTE COUTURE Actively contributing to Chicago’s efforts to become one of the greenest cities in the nation, Green Exchange is a concrete loft building of 272,000 square feet with an expansive capacity to house more than 100 eco friendly businesses in the city. One of its upcoming vendors, Vaute Couture is a runway-quality vegan clothing line, solely using animal free products to produce affordable, functional green pieces for today’s eco-conscious fashionista. Founder Leanne Hilgart created the line in September with a desire to cater to animal lovers everywhere with a knack for fashion by using chic alternatives to wool, down and fur. For your green shopping experience, contact: 312 275 3102 www.greenexchange.com
COLORI ECO PAINT BOUTIQUE
GREENSKY COMPANY This Andersonville eco-boutique was established in 2006, housing an incredible variety of handmade gifts and functional items from outdoor furniture to decorative tiles, vases and more. Locally owned by a couple, Nadeen and Thom, both are deeply rooted in community and not-for-profit organizations. Both are dedicated to using local, recycled materials to uphold this unique eco-store. Earthlust Stainless Steel Water Bottles Contact for pricing
‘Queen of Color’ Michelle Quaranta founded the eco paint boutique Colori in 2006, making a life-long dream of hers a reality. Colori offers 496 handcrafted colors on a 16 colorant Euro tinting system, all of which are either low or no-VOC paints. Every step from manufacturing to production to sampling, stands true to green ethics and committed to producing as little waste and pollution as possible. Visit this eco-chic paint boutique in Bucktown. Sample Color Swatches $0.50 2243 W. North Ave. #101, Chicago 773 292 0510 www.colorichicago.com
5357 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago 773 275 1911 www.greenskycompany.com
ECO EVENTS From April 17-25, Chicago will be booming with Earth Day Events in several parks throughout the city. The Green Apple Festival will be running from 17-19. An Earth Day Green Tea Party will be hosted by Morton Arboretum from 1-3pm providing dozens of tasty teas from around the globe. To wrap up the green week, the 9th Annual Earth Day wildflower planting session will be taking place on April 25 from 9-11am, hosted by North Pond Nature Sanctuary. For more information, visit: http://planetgreen.discovery.com/travel-outdoors/ chicago-earth-day-events.html
GRASSHOPPER 510 Locally owned by young married couple Jean Taylor and Mike Roberts, the idea of this ecoboutique came from recurring hardships to find the perfect eco-conscious gifts and products within the convenience of their own city. Deciding mutually to pursue a retail endeavor, the couple opened Grasshopper 510 in May 2008. Rosette Poppy Pillow $74 ~ 18 inch 1944 N. Damen Ave., Chicago 773 292 0510 www.grasshopper510.com
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PAVE PAVING THE WAY FOR WOMEN April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. PAVE Founder & Executive Director Angela Rose tells her story of survival BY IYA BAKARE
Photograph by Tom Bluett
PROMOTING AWARENESS, VICTIM EMPOWERMENT (PAVE) Is a multi-chapter national nonprofit organization that uses education and action to shatter the silence of sexual violence through targeted social, educational and legislative tactics. PAVE’s work has been featured on CNN, The Today Show and in TIME.
Angela Rose
ANGELA ROSE SAYS it was a day like any other day in suburban Chicago in 1996. She sang to herself under the sunny sky and walked to her car from a day of shopping at the mall. Within moments, she was snatched into a cloud of darkness as an assailant forced her into a car at knifepoint. Seconds later, 17-year-old Angela found herself at the mercy of a predator, a repeat offender who was already out on parole for the 1980 rape and murder of 15-year-old Julie Angel. “Although my eyes were taped shut, I 20 ME: IN FOCUS APRIL 2010
www.pavingtheway.net
could remember distinct details, like distinguishing characteristics of his face and details about the seats of his car,” recounts Angela. After convincing him to release her, Angela says her offender drove her back to the streets near the mall. “I remember him using a handkerchief or something when he opened the car door, which led me to believe he wanted to be careful about getting caught,” says Angela. Those vivid details aided in her assailant’s capture days later. The detective whom Angela initially reported the incident to
didn’t believe her and other detectives were assigned to her case. “One of the detectives actually recognized him after he was apprehended,” she says. Angela’s offender is currently serving a mandatory life sentence for the crimes he committed, which were violations of his parole. A unique twist of fate united Angela with people from her attacker’s past— the daughter and sister of his murder victim and other women he assaulted. These individuals banned together to collect thousands of signatures during a petition
Photo courtesy of www.pavingtheway.net
drive, resulting in the passage of the 1998 Sexually Violent Persons Commitment Act in Illinois. “[The process of changing the law] was an incredibly inspiring experience,” recalls Angela. Under the support of former Attorney General Jim Ryan, this law allows the state to hold sexually violent individuals in custody under psychiatric care if they have been convicted of a previous sexual offense, have a mental disorder and are seen as a threat. Angela also worked on legisla-
tion concerning alcohol and assault. As a college student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Angela was appointed Campus Safety Coordinator by the UW Associated Students of Madison. This catapulted Angela to establish PAVE (Promoting Awareness, Victim Empowerment) in 2000, a community-based organization that works on a social, educational and legislative scale to raise awareness of and promote action on sexual violence through art programs, campaigns, curriculum building for communities and survivor
justice campaigns. She also worked on legislation concerning alcohol and assault. “I wanted to create change on my college campus,” she says. Some of the changes Angela implemented at UW were creating awareness about date rape in college and the importance of responsible drinking. Within a few years, Angela’s ‘change’ grew from a community-based organization to a multichapter, national non-profit organization, something she didn’t expect to grow nationwide. In 2008, PAVE’s efforts in Wisconsin led to the state joining the rest APRIL 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 21
Photos courtesy of www.pavingtheway.net
of the country by creating a law that affirmed the role of alcohol as an intoxicant under the new rape law. Despite the ongoing work of organizations such as PAVE, Angela admits the country still has a ways to go in regard to efforts to prevent sexual violence. “This is the most underreported crime by far,” she says. Angela says this occurs because sometimes victims are accused of lying about attacks, especially when their assailants are people they know. Victims sometimes decide to not report these 22 ME: IN FOCUS APRIL 2010
crimes because they feel intimidated by their attackers or by the justice system itself. Angela adds that men are very active in her organization. “We need men to be a proactive part of the solution,” she says. “We also need to focus on the positive aspects, like what healthy relationships are supposed to be, which is more beneficial.” In addition to her work for PAVE, Angela finds an outlet in her singing and songwriting. She is also working on a book, Bound and Beyond, which features the accounts of true stories of individuals who have
overcome a variety of obstacles and not only those that deal with sexual violence. “We can’t choose what happens to us, but we can choose our response,” says Angela.
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INFORM ME YOGA BOOTY BALLET– INDIGO STUDIO
FITNESS SPRING INTO A NEW FITNESS ROUTINE
You may have heard of this class before, and we can thank Chicago native Jaclyn Jones for bringing the Hollywood fitness craze from LA to the Windy City. You get a little bit of everything in this hybrid class, which combines everything from kundalini meditation and hatha yoga poses to hip-hop, jazz, salsa and ballet dance moves. It uses ABC training - working your abs with yoga, tightening your booty with ballet and shedding pounds with cardio.
Get fit quick from the inside out with fun and effective classes offered at some of the best fitness studios in town
JJ likes to start and end her classes with yoga and has her clients state an intention. "People are using the physical practice to create more of a personal transformation," she said. A class good for mind, body, and booty!
BY KERRY SAYERS
Located in River North 312 520 7348 www.theindigostudio.com
CLASS INFO
NO MATTER HOW MOTIVATED we try to get into shape in time for the warmer weather, at some point we start to get discourage or distracted. The goals we made just a few short months ago are out the window. Well, maybe all the medicine you need is a blah-busting fitness class that gives you a reason to get up and get moving again, and our fitness contributor Kerry Sayers is here with just the right prescription.
RECESS – CHEETAH GYM If you were one of those girls who used to say your favorite part of school was recess, then this class is for you. It's time to play like a kid again! From jump rope to hopscotch, shuttle runs to dodgeball, this class will make you sweat and give you an excuse to NOT act your age for a change. When will you ever get the chance to play tag and crab walk again? Can't think of any? Then get your heart rate elevated, work your muscles and go back to school! CLASS INFO Locations in Andersonville, Bucktown and Edgewater 773 728 7777 www.cheetahgym.com
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THE BAR METHOD™ WORKOUT
HOT POWER FUSION – CORE POWER YOGA
Ever wanted to be a ballerina but didn't have the skills or body type? Well, here's your chance to try something that's the next best thing, without the blisters on your toes.
The class moves between Hot Yoga’s static and systematic holds and CorePower’s Vinyasa Flow. Students will receive the benefits of a Hot Yoga class with further hip opening, upper body and core strengthening benefits. The class, taught in a room heated to 98 to 100 degrees, will appeal to the traditional Hot Yoga student who is looking to deepen their yoga practice. While all levels are welcome, including beginners, a CorePower Yoga class is also offered, and postures are demonstrated. The flow goes at a slower pace and the room isn't as hot.
The Bar Method is based on the technique of Lotte Berk, a German dancer who fled the Nazis in the late 1930s and came to London with her British husband. After injuring her back, Lotte got the idea of combining her ballet bar routines with her rehabilitative therapy to form an exercise system. In 1959, she opened The Lotte Berk Studio in her basement, and since then has ended up with some famous clientele, including Brooke Shields and Joan Collins. The bar method promises students lean, firm and sculpted bodies by combining isometrics, dance conditioning and the intense pace of interval training. The results can be dramatic from reduced body fat, better posture, improved muscle definition and longer leaner muscles. Students rave about noticeable body changes in a short period of time.
CLASS INFO Locations in the Gold Coast and South Loop 312 829 9642 www.corepoweryoga.com
CLASS INFO Locations in Lakeview and the Loop 773 935 2150 chicago@barmethod.com
HOT BOD – CHEETAH GYM
WHIPPED EQUINOX
Hot bod is the hottest class going on at Cheetah Gym, and for obvious reasons - the promise of a whole body workout. Get toned through a variety of techniques and equipment - stability balls, bands, weights, barbells and your own body weight. It’s a hot class, check it out!
Who needs a trainer to whip you into shape when you have a class with a name that promises to do just that? This cardio class which has recently been introduced to the schedule, is described as a high intensity workout with short rest, during which students use everything from strength ropes, kettle bells, weights and body bars to get whipped into shape. No cutting corners though and get ready to sweat!
CLASS INFO Locations in Andersonville, Bucktown and Edgewater 773 728 7777 www.cheetahgym.com
CLASS INFO Locations in the Gold Coast, Lincoln Park and the Loop 312 254 2500 www.equinox.com
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TYTANIA ROSE DESIGNER + HUMANITARIAN This month our model role model is Tytania Rose, a former model turned handbag designer and entrepreneur. She utilizes her fashion experience and business savvy in conjunction with her creativity to reach out to women in third world countries.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHELE LAURITA WICKMAN
WHEN PEOPLE ASK about her personal style, an ‘elegant hippie’ is how fashion designer Tytania Rose describes it. Inspired by the embroideries and textures of Thailand, the former swimsuit model turned designer says fashion was always a part of her life. “I used to draw and make clothes for my dolls as a little girl,” comments Tytania. “When I lived in Georgia, my mom used to buy me Vogue magazines and I would make clothes from the outfits in them when I was in sixth or seventh grade. Everyone thought I was a freak, but nothing could stop me.” 26 ME: IN FOCUS APRIL 2010
FABRIC OF A WO
OMAN
SPRING/SUMMER 2010 ACCESSORIES COLLECTION www.tytania.com
ELEGANT HIPPIE Tytania’s tribal-influenced handbags are created from a variety of exotic textures and patterns.
ORANGATANG FOLD-OVER CLUTCH
After graduating from college at Parsons School of Design in New York City where she earned a double BFA in Illustration and Animation, Tytania moved to Los Angeles and fell into modeling. “Modeling had a funny way of finding me, passing in and out of my life, and I think I instinctively resisted it, although to this day I am not so sure why,” admits Tytania. “I knew I was interested in clothes and style, and I felt uncomfortable and unimportant when I was in front of the camera. I wanted to have an artistic voice and be involved in creating the scene, not being the scene. This is more or less how I got into being a stylist. From there, I went into textiles, accessories and clothing design.”
CANNES EVENING BAG
Through modeling, Tytania formed friendships with makeup artists and photographers. During this time, she also rediscovered her love for designing, which led to her decision to design handbags. Tytania lists the late Alexander McQueen as one of her role models in fashion designing for his whimsical ideas that turned commercial and the late Coco Chanel for how she changed the way women wore clothing. She also names Burma leader Aung San Suu Kyi as an influential figure in her life. While on vacation in Thailand, Tytania says she became fascinated with the locals and their culture, including the textures and embroideries of their country. She discovered although they preserved patterns from decades prior, the pieces were woven with a poor quality of thread and fabrics. I wanted to preserve the patterns and said, “Why not develop this and turn it into
SAN GUSME EVENING BAG
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TYTANIA’S OWN ROLE MODEL
BARDOT CLUTCH
ZULU CLUTCH
The history of the world shows that people and societies do not have to pass through a fixed series in the course of development. Human beings the world over need freedom and security that they may be able to realize their full potential.
~Aung San Suu Kyi, Burma Human Rights Leader
MANINA TRAVEL TOTE
STONETOWN LAPTOP CAREER BAG LUGGAGE TAGS
SIRENA DAY BAG
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⊳ SPRING/SUMMER 2010 ACCESSORIES COLLECTION www.tytania.com
ZANZIBAR CLUTCH
EL MOROCCO MINI DAY BAG
Spring/Summer 2010 Ad Campaign
something really cool people in New York, Chicago or L.A. would want?”, says Tytania. She admits designing accessories was a segway into creating a clothing line. In creating a collection, the handbag designer tells us in her own words: “gathering ideas and taking photos is a big part, also evaluating trends and analyzing the nature of our world and what we are all trying to achieve within the times...my last collection for fall 10 was very 1930s and much more simple as I felt the depression of the economy, the need for simplification and economical luxury so to speak. Plus the colors are more subdued and dark as I was feeling this kind of vibe very strongly, especially being in Milan which can be very misty and grey, and a bit depressing. The Spring 10 collection was more inspired by Africa, and blending it with Italian 1960s-sort of a Bridgette Bardot goes to Zanzibar...it is much more colorful and happy as I designed this just before the market fell and we were acting as if we were all on the Titanic, fashion-wise. It’s always very important for me to not only pick up on what is around me as I travel and observe color palettes and imagery, but also what is happening politically and financially.”
FONDA CROSS BODY FLAP BAG
SIENA TOTE DAY BAG
APRIL 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 29
NANG FAH PROJECT SAVING TRIBES, SAVING WOMEN The Nang Fah Project, founded by Tytania Rose, is located in Chiang Mai. The project provides housing, education and employment for young, underprivileged girls who have been subject to the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC). On site of the charitable organization is a workshop employed with local residents and The Nang Fah Project graduates who are paid under International Fair Trade Wages. The items produced in this creative production agency are eco-friendly, couture quality, highly influenced by Bohemian, tribal cultures and Southeast Asian handcrafts. The mission of The Nang Fah Project is to cease the cycle of human exploitation, providing education and opportunity for young women one victim at a time. www.nangfahproject.org PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF TYTANIA ROSE
SAVE THE DATE MAY 27, 2010 Tytania is hosting a wine and tapas event at the Asia Society and Museum in New York City on May 27 in efforts to raise awareness and funds to build a training center for girls in Chiang Mai. For more details and to RSVP, please visit the website: www.nangfahproject.org
AS A MISSIONARY in Thailand who rescued girls and young women who were victims of sex trafficking, Tytania was mortified by the poverty in the country and the number of children affected by the commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC). These conditions inspired Tytania to establish The Nang Fah Project in Chiang Mai, which offers employment for women in the local community. Employees work in the accessory design and production workshop and are paid under International Fair Trade Wages. She continues in her own words: “I started helping to rescue the girls, visiting them in brothels and bars with my partners. I started to really understand that missionary work does not necessarily help them completely, as they needed real skills and real education so they can work and get jobs or work privately. It has been a long time since I started volunteering-five or six years-and it takes a long time to get anything started there. Just trying to understand the mentality and culture is a big step and takes years. I rented my school there last year but I have had a very hard time raising funds after the economy took such a dive. I have a big event at the Asia Society in NYC on May 27 which I hope will allow us to finally open our school. I am leaving to go over to Chiang Mai in one month to start a small collection of clothing with Hill tribe fabrics. I am hoping this
Tytania with board member Zothansiami Rialte at her orphanage.
Local handmade Karen Hill tribe yarn
will jump start things as well. So far I have worked with helping the girls in Burma who are all tribal women and between 14 and 20 years old. Close to 90 percent of the country is unemployed and the tribal people are regarded as lesser people so I always want to help them first. It breaks my heart. I wish I could do more...
Tytania in Burma with local girls whom she has helped teach sewing and design to rescue them from the brothels. This is done in coordination with her partner, Garden of Hope, in Chiang Mai, Thailand
APRIL 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 31
STYLE ME
FRESH BEAUTY WITH MAKEUP ARTIST VERONICA SAUCEDO Freshen your look to subtle spring beauty with soft feminine tones for eyes, lips and face
www.veronicasaucedo.com
BASICS FOR SPRING COLOR PALETTE
COVER GIRL EYE ENHANCERS Berries & Cream ULTA $5.49 www.ulta.com
Yellow/Gold, Peaches, Nudes, Pink , Greens
M A C TINTED LIPGLASS Almondine MAC COSMETICS $14 www.maccosmetics.com
32 ME: IN FOCUS APRIL 2010
M A C LIPSTICK Fresh Salmon MAC COSMETICS $14 www.maccosmetics.com
Eye Shadow
E.L.F SPRING COLORS Butter Cream/Wild Wheat ELF COSMETICS $3 www.eyeslipsface.com
M A C SPRING COLORS Very Violet/Lala/ Straw Harvest/Nanogold MAC COSMETICS $14.50 www.maccosmetics.com
NYX TRIO EYE SHADOW TS5/TS18/TS6 NYX COSMETICS $8 www.nyxcosmetics.com
PIXI EYE BEAUTY KIT Muse/Miracle/Mirage TARGET $28 www.target.com
LAURA MERCIER POWDER Translucent $34 www.lauramercier.com
GET THIS LOOK Veronica shares the secret to achieving the look for the shoot pg. 8
M A C EYESHADOW Wedge/Blanc Type/Brule MAC COSMETICS $14.50 www.maccosmetics.com
M A C BLUSH Peaches MAC COSMETICS $18.50 www.maccosmetics.com
SMASHBOX BLUSH Bronze Lights/Suntan Matte $28 www.smashbox.com
DIOR KISS LIPSTICK Pink Marshmallow 168 SEPHORA $21 www.sephora.com
ESTEE LAUDER LIPSTICK Elizabeth Pink $22 www.esteelauder.com
M A C LIP PENCIL Soar MAC COSMETICS $13 www.maccosmetics.com
M A C TINTED LIPGLASS 1-Ember Glow/2-Cultureclash/ 3-Hush, Hush Rose MAC COSMETICS $14 www.maccosmetics.com
CHANEL JOUES CONTRASTE Rose Petale CHANEL $42 www.chanel.com
COVER GIRL CLASSIC COLOR Natural Glow/Soft Mink Natural Shimmer ULTA $5.69 www.ulta.com
M A C LIPSTICK 1-Pink Burst/2-Laugh a Lot 3-Bronzilla MAC COSMETICS $14 www.maccosmetics.com
1
E.L.F SPRING COLORS Peachy Keen/Candid Coral/ Tickled Pink ELF COSMETICS $3 www.eyeslipsface.com
2
NYX POWDER BLUSH Natural/Sand/Peach/ Silky Rose NYX COSMETICS $6 www.nyxcosmetics.com
NYX MOSAIC POWDER Latte NYX COSMETICS $9 www.nyxcosmetics.com
Lips
Blush
M A C POWDER BLUSH Azalea Blossom/ Spring Shine/Ripe Peach MAC COSMETICS $25 www.maccosmetics.com
3
APRIL 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 33
A PERFUMED LIFE MASTER PERFUMER FRANCIS KURKDJIAN An afternoon with the creator of Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris BY IYA BAKARE
Francis realized his passion for scents at age 15. With the creation of his first scent, Le Male, for Jean Paul Gaultier at age 25, Francis spent the next 15 years creating some of the top-selling scents for numerous fashion houses including Yves St. Laurent and Narciso Rodriguez. With the successful launch of his own line in 2009, Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris, Francis made a visit to Chicago, where we sat down with him to learn about his passion.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian is available at Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com
FEMININE INSPIRATIONS Like his own line, Francis finds inspiration in women whom he feels embody timeless elegance and nat– ural sophistication, including Audrey Hepburn and his friend, the great French actress Catherine Deneuve. Francis says his current ‘femme du jour’ is actress Julianne Moore. “It’s the red hair,” he admits.
FRANCIS HIMSELF CONVEYS comfort, much like his fragrances, which are created to remind us of the great joys and simple pleasures in life. Creativity flows nonstop because he’s an idea factory as he pulls out his cell phone to record an idea for a new fragrance during our interview. He was taught ‘classic is not a dirty word’ by Narciso Rodriguez. Inspired by Audrey Hepburn’s legendary role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Francis says his line of fragrances for women aim to define what luxury is. “My luxury is about detail and about what’s necessary to make it happen,” he shares.
Photograph Courtesy of Mary Jane Kevlin, Laforce + Stevens
His cotton wick candles that burn his emblem, the zinc packaging inspired by the beauty of Parisian rooftops and the personal notes in each product reveal Francis’s eye for detail. The zinc packaging on the top of his candles also symbolizes the lifting of one’s soul. “I want to bring back harmony and create a bridge of all the scents that surround you,” he says. “It’s not about my ego or the product; it’s about the user.” In his line, Francis says every scent has a story. His Aqua Universalis fragrance is inspired by the ‘emotion of clean’. Francis engulfs himself in every aspect of his work, which led to one of his fragrances, APOM, an acronym for ‘A Piece of Me’. This fragrance is evocative of the colors and flavors of the Mediterranean.
EDP Lumière Noire femme I love the association of the words Lumière and Noire (Light and Black), an attraction and repulsion. A black hole lit with the image of a mysterious perfume that attracts until it provokes selfabandon. It is the idea of two opposing powers that unite to create a whole that relates, at its turn, a new story. The mention of this duality is imposed as an obvious fact, like the emblematic blend of Rose and Patchouli. Olfactory Description Lumière Noire for Women: Eau de Parfum - natural spray 2.33 fl oz Spiced Rose (cumin, hot pepper) – Patchouli – Narcissus
APRIL 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 35
Francis’s recent cologne fragrances, Cologne Pour le Matin (or Cologne for the Morning) and Cologne Pour le Soir (Cologne for the Evening), are inspired by his parents and the scents of a peaceful awakening after sleeping in and the scents of evening time with a loved one in front of a fire. Francis says his cologne line is also a tribute to tradition.
Papiers Encens Incense Papers recreate the tradition of burning papers. One can light them and let them be consumed. But one can also slide the paper strips into drawers or armoires, or into luggage to bring a bit of home along on a trip. Pull box with 20 perfumed strips for burning available in three varieties: • Aqua Universalis Incense Papers: Bouquet of White Flowers • APOM Incense Papers: Orange Flower • Lumière Noire Incense Papers: Rose
Inspired by his niece, Francis created a line of scented bubbles called Agathe’s Bubbles. Francis says each scent (cold mint, cut grass and pear) represent the discovery of fragrance while playing because scents remind us of fond memories and often times bring us back to our childhood. “It’s about bringing happiness into someone’s life,” he says.
Les Bulles d’ Agatha Our House loves children. Agatha is six years old. Agatha touches and smells everything. Agatha is curious about all things that surround her. Thus, for Agatha, I have created a collection of scents to help discover the world of fragrance while playing. Twist, blow, marvel! First opus of perfumed bubbles, a series of green notes in simple fragrances: • Les Bulles d’Agathe: Pear 45 fl oz • Les Bulles d’Agathe: Cold Mint 45 fl oz • Les Bulles d’Agathe: Cut Herbs 45 fl oz
Nature is a central theme to Francis in not only his fragrances, but also in the packaging of his products. The packaging is both recyclable and biodegradable. “My house is a fragranced approach to life 24/7,” he adds.
Gamme lessive parfmante + adoucissant A Water for all uses, for everything and everyone: for all things for all days. A scent that creates an olfactory connection that crosses between skin and fabric; between sheets and air; between large and small; between men and women. Olfactory Description Bergamote and Lemon from Sicily – White Bouquet (Lily of the Valley and sweet mock orange) – Light and Musky Wood • Laundry Washing Liquid, concentrated and perfumed (20 washings) 33.33 fl oz • Laundry Washing Liquid, concentrated and perfumed, dark colors (20 washings) 33.33 fl oz • Fabric Softener, perfumed 33.33 fl oz
36 ME: IN FOCUS APRIL 2010
www.franciskurkdjian.com
APRIL 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 37
Photograph Courtesy of Mary Jane Kevlin, Laforce + Stevens
38 ME: IN FOCUS APRIL 2010
LEFT/ Hmong girls on temple grounds RIGHT/ The golden Chedi of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
JET SET
L
CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
The second stop in our Thailand series. Over 400 miles to the north of Bangkok, Chiang Mai is a historical city located in the hills of northern Thailand. Full of ancient temples, lush tropical jungles and a more temperate climate, Chiang Mai is a great destination to explore. PHOTOGRAPHED BY BIAN LI
40 ME: IN FOCUS APRIL 2010
LEFT/ TOP + BOTTOM: Within the grounds of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep RIGHT: The famous painting elephants at Maesa Elephant Camp in the lush jungle of Chaing Mai’s Maesa Valley
SPRING RECIPE
STEP INTO FLAIR
VANILLA POACHED PEACH WITH FRENCH BUTTER CAKE VANILLA POACHED PEACH
FRESH RASPBERRY COULIS
WITH FINESSE CUISINE
2 cups water 1 cup sugar 1 vanilla bean, split 8 peaches, split and ends removed
2 cups fresh raspberries (1/2 lb) or 1 3/4 cups frozen , thawed 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1/2 to 3/4 cup confectioners sugar
Place the water, sugar and vanilla bean in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the vanilla bean and scrape the inside of the bean into the liquid. Add as many peaches to the pan as it will hold without piling or crowding, and poach over a low simmer for about 8 minutes or until the fruit is soft. Remove the peaches and finish poaching the remainder of the fruits. When done, place the peaches in a glass baking dish, cut side down. Pour the vanilla syrup over the peaches and refrigerate until chilled for up to 8 hours.
Purée raspberries, lemon juice, and 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar in a food processor. Sweeten with confectioners sugar to taste (up to 1/4 cup more). Force through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding seeds. Don’t be tempted to make this sauce too sweet. It will be a fine contrast to the sweet poached peaches and the rich butter cake. Chill for up to 3 hours.
Nothing captures the splendor of the warm weather better than a bright and luscious peach served atop a rich French butter cake with a touch of fresh cream or raspberry coulis. www.finessecuisine.com
RECIPE COURTESY OF EXECUTIVE CHEF GUY MEIKLE PHOTO COURTESY OF PRESIDENT/OWNER JON WOOL
42 ME: IN FOCUS APRIL 2010
BEVERAGE PAIRING
FRENCH BUTTER CAKE 1 ounce instant dry 1 teaspoon + 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar, divided 3/4 cup lukewarm water 4 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup cold salted butter 1 egg yolk, beaten
Sprinkle the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar over the warm water and allow the yeast to dissolve for 5 minutes. Stir the flour into the yeast mixture until it forms a smooth, thick dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll and stretch the dough into a large rectangle, about 9inches by 13-inches. Dot the surface with 1/4 cup of the cold butter and sprinkle it with 1/4 cup of sugar. Fold the dough into quarters. Repeat the rolling and folding process again, three times. Preheat an oven to 350F. Once the dough is folded into quarters the last time, fit it into a greased 9-inch round baking pan. Brush the surface of the dough with the egg yolk, sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, and bake it for 25 to 30 minutes, until it turns golden brown.
Spring is the time of year associated with romance and soaring spirits. There is nothing more magical than a first warm breeze, the sweet song of a robin or the fragrance of blooming hyacinth. We invite you to sip this refreshing cocktail and enjoy the extra hours of sunshine.
SPRING SUNRISE RUBY RED COCKTAIL 2 oz. Dark Rum 1 oz. Mint Simple Syrup 1/2 Ruby Red Grapefruit 1/2 Blood Orange 1 oz. Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice Garnish Fresh Mint Sprig Grapefruit Twist Juice the grapefruit and blood orange and strain. Combine all ingredients over ice and shake vigorously. Pour ingredients, ice and all, into frozen rocks glass. Garnish with sprig of mint and twist of grapefruit.
Allow the butter cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, run a thin, offset spatula or knife around the edges of the cake, and remove the cake from the baking pan. Let cake cool slightly. To serve, cut the cake into eight pieces or use a cookie cutter to cut out rounds. Drizzle or pool raspberry coulis on plate, place cake off center, place peach half against cake. To create an ‘over the top’ presentation, top peach with edible gold leaf and free form spun sugar. Edible gold leaf is available from fine candy making supply stores.
Finesse Cuisine shares your love of fine dining, your passion for entertaining and your appreciation of exquisite service. Whether serving an intimate gathering or organizing a grand gala, we create an event specific to your needs. Our unwavering focus from menu planning to event production is meticulously designed and flawlessly executed to produce the most customized event imaginable. 1332 N. Halsted St., Suite 305, Chicago 312 280 9999
APRIL 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 43
FILM
BUZZ
America Fererra
Lance Gross
Forest Whitaker
Carlos Mencia
Diana Maria Riva
Regina King
OUR FAMILY WEDDING BY CHRISTINE CAPUTO
aaaa likely to accept one another and can easily make this wedding celebration a disaster. Brad (Forest Whitaker) and Miguel (Carlos Mencia) battle over the wedding details while Lucia’s mother (Diana Maria Riva) is fantasizing about making this her perfect wedding. Angela, played by the beautiful Regina King is Brad’s best friend and lawyer and seems to be the only level headed one out of the bunch. Although there are ups and downs, the families learn to accept their differences and laugh at the craziness of the whole ordeal. Lucia and Marcus live out their dream wedding and become enmeshed in each other’s family culture.
They both realize that when you marry someone, you truly marry the entire family! I loved the blending of these two worlds coming together and it made for some pretty laughable stereotypical concepts. The acting was picture perfect and I think America Ferrera is my new favorite! My fellow chick flick reviewers also enjoyed this movie, but I feel it should be noted that it may be targeted and more enjoyed by an audience within marriage range. From our friends at:
Photos courtesy of Jake Caputo, Chick Flick Reviews
This romantic comedy will have you laughing throughout and is truly an enjoyable gem. Our Family Wedding embraces the concept of family and the culture that come with it. This is a ‘feel good film’ that incorporates the celebration of two cultures and the ability to laugh at the differences. Lucia (America Fererra) and Marcus (Lance Gross) are a newly engaged couple with their whole lives ahead of them. There’s just one problem: now they have to tell their parents. When Lucia and Marcus announce the good news to their parents at dinner, they soon realize that their two egocentric fathers are not
HEALTHY LIVING FASHION
Enriched with info on movies, music and pop culture
http://www.ivillage.com/healthy-living/health
http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/
An awesome fashion blog with detailed how-to’s for the stylistically educated fashionista
An interactive food blog website with recipes and restaurant recommendations for meat eaters and vegetarians alike
FOOD
Tips and helpful insight on how to live healthy in all aspects of life
ENTERTAINMENT
BLOGS WE LOVE
BLOGS
http://blogs.smarter.com/fashion/
http://www.seriouseats.com/
HOT SPOTS DAYTIME HANGOUTS + NIGHT TIME HAUNTS
A y D
Places to go, people to see
MANNY’S DELI Known city-wide for their signature corned beef sandwiches, Manny's Deli stays true to its original family roots and recipes since 1942. Located on South Jefferson Street, Manny's Deli has a wide variety of delicious original entrees, as well as selections for those who are calorie conscious. Drop in six days a week to see what great flavors have been celebrated in Chicago for over half a decade. A favorite of President Obama!
THE BLUEBIRD This easy going neighborhood lounge is ideal for a mid-week hangout or a low key weekend outing. Its hip interior decor emphasizes rawness, from exposed wood and brick, to the skeletons of salvaged light fixtures, to the muted colors of displayed artwork in simplistic black frames. Indulge in an array of menu options, including over 50 handcrafted beers, an incredible wine list, as well as light eats and entrees to accompany well-made drinks.
1141 S. Jefferson St., Chicago 312 939 2855 www.mannysdeli.com
aaaa Editor’s Pick
1749 N. Damen Ave., Chicago 773 486 2473 www.bluebirdchicago.com
SIMONE’S
JOY YEE’S NOODLES
This Pilsen bar and grill is lively, vibrant and unique in more ways than one. The heterogeneous décor consists of columned seating with booths woven from old seat belts, as well as high school chemistry table tops adorned with graffiti. The dining menu offers goodies ranging from Sweet Potato and Portobello fries to Stuffed Encrusted Peppers and Blackened Tuna Steaks washed down with an extensive selection of draughts, wines and signature cocktails. DJs daily.
Joy Yee's is one of Chicago's staple Asian food eateries with an extensive menu of generously portioned, unique, creative and traditional Asian dishes, all at an affordable price. Opening its first location in Evanston in 1993, Joy Yee's has come a long way, with several locations throughout the Chicago area today. Joy Yee's prides themselves on being the first of its kind to offer Tawaiinese style bubble teas in the Midwest.
960 West 18th St., Chicago 312 666 8601 www.simonesbar.com
2159 S. China Place, Chicago 312 842 8928 www.joyyee.com
CAFÉ SELMARIE The felicitous Café Selmarie was established in 1983 by a chance meeting of two neighborhood bakers, Jeanne Uzdawinis and Birgit Kobayashi. Over 20 years later, this Lincoln avenue cafe offers dozens of seasonal, signature dessert pastries, upscale lunch and dinner entrees, as well a as fitting beer, wine and drink list. Stop in on Saturday and Sunday mornings for brunch. 4729 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago 773 989 5595 www.cafeselmarie.com
APRIL 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 45
Coming Soon
Photographer: Bian Li www.meinfocusstudios.com
ME: IN FOCUS Bridal Issue June 2010
ME :IN FOCUS MAGAZINE + STUDIOS