The Scenestress

We’ve gone through a lot together in ’09. Looking back at my first year as your resident night-life-style writer, I must say it’s been quite a ride. I’ve discovered some fun at local watering holes, rubbed elbows with celebrities and (arguably) mastered the art of iPhone photography. Way back in January my column debuted with a visit to Soap, the monthly indie dance party, which set the tone for what I would be doin’ for y’all: seeking out the coolest and craziest stuff Sarasota has to offer. I was surprised to find no shortage of cool and crazy in this town, despite our rep as an over-sized seaside retirement community.

Regular faves like Horsefeathers’ biweekly Drag Queen Bingo never failed to entertain, with a barrage of inappropriate language alongside a healthy dose of gambling, and the other corners of Sarasota’s own little Bermuda triangle also kept me busy (including one memorable ladies’ night at the now-defunct Esca). In May I familiarized myself with all Southside Village has to offer, making some new friends and crawling into the office the next day with one helluva hangover. I also hit the beaches for margaritas at the little-known Lido Key Tiki Bar and a Sunday pool party at The Colony organized by Klauber dynasty offspring. Read the rest of this entry »

Miami is one colorful city, and not just because of Art Basel. The “most important art show in the United States” has become so large since its inception in 2002 that numerous satellite fairs have popped up all over the Miami area. Only a weekend browsing it all will tell the difference between the official show and the outsiders.

After strolling just 20 feet into the Miami Beach Convention Center, the Basel epicenter, I am dazzled by the swirl of it all. The giant white walls stamped with masses of color transport me to a strange world, one inhabited exclusively by elegant people carrying designer handbags, with the soft hum of their many different languages hanging in the air. Read the rest of this entry »

Bullshit there’s nothing to do in Sarasota.

If I have one concept to impart in my weekly time with each of you it is this: The scale and scope of happening hotness in this town continues to impress me, and we have those of you who are getting out there and making it happen to thank for that. Last week in particular, those awesome folks were numerous and varied. Let’s start at the beginning, shall we?

Monthly dance party Soap has become something of a guilty pleasure for me. Guilty because Wednesday morning at the office after a night downing PBRs and whomping it up with Skiffle & Co. is generally a particularly tough concept. On this particular Tuesday, however, due to the Thanksgiving holiday, I secured a glorious Wednesday off. “It’s party time,” my pink hoop earrings seemed to be saying, so I plugged them in and headed to the Cabana for an extra-special Soap with musical guest Gil Mantera’s Party Dream, all the way from Ohio. Read the rest of this entry »

Seriously? We’re still talking about this ridiculous popularity contest? Well, we all know it’s Johnny Depp, despite his photo on this year’s cover…

Monsieur Depp is a gentleman, a scholar, and a sexy mothrf*ckr. Check out my own personal photo montage at right.

I have to stop posting about Lady Gaga all the time…but I can’t. On this occasion it is a new collabo with Beyoncé, “Video Phone.” Watch, be amazed.

I’m finally, mostly recovered from  last weekend and ready to hit the town. My night begins at Selva Grill, for a real proper dinner and date. After a slew of hard work at the paper during Best Of, I’ve earned a gift certificate to the upscale Peruvian restaurant, and while I’d drank at Selva several times before, I’d never actually enjoyed a meal there.

Contemporary art and low light set the mood at Selva. My date and I spend a short time waiting at the bar during which Sir Steve helps me choose a delicious martini made with Chambord, vanilla vodka, and champagne (the “French”). Vinny Sizemore, local playboy and owner of denim destination Stitch Boutique pops by with air kisses, and I politely wait before he is out of ear shot before turning to my date to tell him I’ve spotted a rival local girlie blogger sporting a very staid hot-pink pashmina/LBD combo. Ha. I always knew I was better…dressed. Read the rest of this entry »

Yes, please!

My love for Miss GaGa has been well documented. Naturally, I’m tripping on her new video, “Bad Romance” (below). While I’m not crazy about the song I must admit it is catchy. The fashion, on the other hand, is out of control. If you want more info about the couture and costumes check out the video stylist’s blog here.