If you are planning on celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, this is certainly no shortage of great options for exciting events out there. But there’s more to a successful St. Patrick’s Day than a few pints of Guinness. In turn, Downtown has compiled a list of items worth trying so you can have a good time all the time this Friday, Mar. 17.
If your St. Patty’s Day is going to include a pub crawl, you’re going to need some stamina to make it through the day. What better source of on-the-go stamina is there than coffee? Dripo is a travel cold brew system that can be used at home, the office, or anywhere you have some space to move your arms. In one section you add ice and water, in the middle of Dripo, you add your ground coffee and a filter. The water drips through the coffee layer into a tumbler at the bottom and in about two hours a cup of cold brew is ready. Incredible.
Kendra Scott designed her first collection of jewelry in 2002. Now, she is the namesake of a billion-dollar brand which also creates home decor and wonderful wedding gifts. The Kendra Scott brand offers nail lacquers, including a few shades of green, right in time for St. Patrick’s Day.
Smith & Cult Beauty Ambassador Jessica Tong created the nail look at the recent NYFW show of Ulla Johnson, which included the Nail Lacquer In Ghost Edit. But the Smith & Cult brand — as founded by co-founded by Hard Candy’s Dineh Mohajer — is also known for its lipgloss and eye makeup. More green coloring to go around!
Shinesty is known for its novelty wear, which covers almost every occasional, holiday and circumstance you can think of. Their St. Patrick’s Day-themed selections are varied and excellent, offering options with and without clovers. Fun fact: I am getting married next week in a Shinesty suit. I am also likely to spend the 4th Of July in some their threads.
As St. Patrick’s Day falls into the winter season, some cold air is to be expected. Fortunately, the new Fresh Pressed System from Clinique is designed as a daily supplement to visibly rejuvenate skin from the outside. In addition, its specialized stay-fresh packaging isolates the pure Vitamin C until activation, maintaining its freshness and full power for remarkable results as little as seven days.
Looking for some green in your skincare and beauty regimens? H2O+’s new Eucalyptus Aloe Collection is green in terms of its packaging, the plants used to make the products, and the environmental consciousness of its production. Its body wash absolutely cleanses and refreshes as promised.
Yes To is known to incorporate vegetables into its products. The Yes To Cucumbers collection includes cleansing water, paper masks, eye kits, makeup removing pads, facial wipes, moisturizer, daily gel cleanser, hydrating mist, night cream, and sunscreen. So no matter the temperature or time of day, Yes To has some healthy greens available for you.
IGK products are known to be free of parabens, sulfates, petroleum and gluten, while also cruelty-free, vegetarian and providing UV and heat protection. Its new Call Time Styling Primer — bright green in its packaging — is full of coconut oil and suitable for all hair types. It also contains the IGK Miami scent, which includes notes of guava, coconut water, pink lotus, midnight violet and vanilla.
U.K. mod-rockers The Creation had a few charting singles before disbanding in 1968. To get psyched up for a St. Patty’s outing, why not start off with “Makin’ Time,” which Wes Anderson re-popularized via the film Rushmore? Action Painting is an impressive deluxe re-issue of The Creation’s catalog, now available via The Numero Group.
If hard rock is more suitable to getting ready for a Mar. 17 celebration, then consider checking out the latest from Scorpions, UFO and M.S.G. guitarist Michael Schenker. Michael Schenker Fest finds the German guitar legend at the center of his namesake live Japanese concert festival. Notable vocalists Gary Barden, Graham Bonnet and Robin McAuley reunite with Schenker to play the classics from the Michael Schenker catalog, which can be enjoyed via the CD, DVD, blu-ray and digital download formats as of Mar. 24.
After a long day of partying on St. Patrick’s Day, the best way to unwind may be with a warm, comfortable bath. One brand to consider for that is Dr. Teal’s, as known for its Epsom Salt Soaks and Foaming Baths. Dr. Teal’s bath products hydrate and heal while providing a pleasant fragrance. Its Restore & Replenish Pink Himalayan Mineral Soak & Foaming Bath alone replenishes body with 84 essential minerals for all over body restoration.
With Valentine’s Day less than two weeks away, most of us have not yet purchased a gift for our loved one(s).
For the sake of originality, here are 20 gift suggestions for those seeking to offer something more original than a bouquet of flowers and/or a box of chocolates:
New York City chocolatier Jacques Torres has a number of playful Valentine’s Day exclusives available. The “Spanker Lollipops” are for the less conservative chocolate fans, while the Champagne Truffles and I Love You Squares ought to appear to the classier of folks. Available at all Jacques Torres New York locations — Hudson Street, DUMBO, Amsterdam Avenue, Rockefeller Center, Midtown East, NOHO, and Grand Central Terminal — and select sweets are available for national shipping online at www.mrchocolate.com.
A bottle of D’USSÉ — a brand with a 200+ year legacy — may be easy to find locally, but the drink itself was naturally-aged at least four and a half years in France’s Château de Cognac. Combining cinnamon, almond, honey and dried fruits in its flavoring, D’USSÉ VSOP Cognac is the rare spirit that is both strong and delicious. And just in time for Valentine’s Day, D’USSÉ has released some great free recipes online; I recommend The Storm, which mixes the Cognac with triple sec, grenadine, cranberry juice and ginger beer.
Few brands are as universally-loved as TOMS, arguably the pioneers of the one-for-one business model. TOMS has come a long way from basic colored slip-on shoes, and its new TOMS X James Goldcrown collaboration is especially eye-grabbing. James Goldcrown is the artist behind the viral Love Wall murals found in New York and Los Angeles, and as released in early January, the new TOMS x James Goldcrown shoes are beautiful, love-centric, and available for both men and women.
A member of The Specialty Foods Association, an affiliate of Fare Trade NYC and a member of the Good Food Merchants Guild, MOUTH is a popular online retailer known for its indie food, drink and gift picks. In other words, curators are choosing the best of what’s new so you don’t have to spend your time researching such. The new raspberry-flavored, hand-crafted X&O Candies? The Bourbon & Tequila Spiked Chocolate Sauce? The Love You Like XO set including Raspberry Rhubarb Goat Milk Caramels? Too many great options — and these are just some of the picks that MOUTH has curated for Valentine’s Day!
If your better half is a football fan, then Ava’s Cupcakes has a new product that will suit both your Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day needs. Helmed by chef Michelle Spell, Ava’s Cupcakes is offered the “Game Day” Sugar Cookie Set, featuring colorful and shaping football-themed cookies. Goal posts, team helmets, stadium, edible platinum trophy…It’s all there! And beyond those special days in February, Ava’s also offers gluten-free and vegan options.
A smart gift may lead to some lip action, so it’s best to be prepared for that. Yes To just released its 2-Step Lip Kit, consisting of Exfoliating Lip Scrub and a Lip Mask. Both parts of the kit smell like coconut and are nearly 100% natural like all Yes To products are known to be.
Other lip-related products to look into this year are H2O+ Beauty’s new Oasis L-Balms and Lip Gels. Each balm is packed with natural beeswax to help nourish and smooth dehydrated lips. Each gel includes a splash of Water Lily extract, leaving lips with a plush texture and a glossy finish. Beauty meets hydration with H2O+.
Snake River Farms’ meat is utilized by many top chefs, including Thomas Keller, Wolfgang Puck, Gabriel Rucker, Alvin Cailan and Michael Mina. But unlikely many vendors to top restaurants, Snake River Farms also sells its meat direct to consumers. Hugh Acheson’s Curated Steak Box — priced just under $200 — includes American Wagyu filet mignon and ribeye, one Lodge skillet, one Mercer saucing spoon, 1 Bragard kitchen towel, Jacobsen’s Flake Finishing Salt, and Hugh Acheson’s Steak Cooking Guide. In other words, meat you won’t forget, along with some tools on how to prepare a great steak in the future.
I have observed that make-up is a long-term game, as it is not just about buying brands that are good for your skin, but also about the tools you use to apply it. The Artis Elite Smoke Collection — available at www.artisbrush.com — is comprised of 10 brushes. As an example, the larger oval brushes (Oval 10, Oval 8, Oval 7) are designed for the application of base products. Each of the brushes are made exclusively with CosmeFibre. In turn, expect brushes that are both long-lasting and easy to clean.
For those interested in both grooming and beer, BRÖÖ is an exciting brand and its new Craft Beer Barber Collection is sure to keep its users both clean, refreshed and cool. Beer has long been used as a home-brewed remedy for strong hair and healthy skin, and the products of BRÖÖ are rich in B vitamins and proteins. The Craft Beer Collection includes the 3-in-1 soap-free Hydrating Condi-Shave Cream, the 4-in-1 Shower Session Wash, and the 3-in-1 Hydrating Mug & Mane Lotion. Perfect for the shower and beyond.
PHYTO’s PHYTOLOGIST is the first of its kind, targeting the four attributes of hair-thinning: density, thickness, strength, and shine. Its 99% natural formula is full of powerful plant extracts (e.g. Cacao, Indian Gentian, Scutellaria Baicalensis Georgi). On top of being an effective hair treatment, PHYTOLOGIST is lightweight and can be left in.
Based in the Yarra Valley of Australia, Four Pillars Gin has made major waves in the U.S. since launching here less than a year ago. Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin includes indigenous lemon myrtle, Tasmanian pepper, juniper, cardamom, coriander, star anise, lavender, cassia, and angelica, while each batch also includes eight pounds of fresh orange gins. Beyond being served in a beautiful bottle, Four Pillars numbers its bottles, further exemplifying how this is the rare craft gin that could also appeal to the masses.
The Beachwaver Co. got a lot of press when it was uncovered that the Beachwaver S1 was used by celebrity hairstylist Sarah Potempa at the 2016 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. The Beachwaver S1 makes three different styles of curling easy to do within minutes: defined curls, loose beachy waves, and glam waves. The S1 is now being sold for a limited time in white via www.beachwaver.com.
In the case that you are spending your Valentine’s Day with a canine, there are still gifting options to consder. Just in time for Feb. 14, the Lord Jameson Dog Patisserie — which launched in New York last year — is offering its Valentine’s Day Limited Edition Petite Pouch. Its ingredients are 100% organic, vegan and free of GMOs. Also available for sale at Beasty Feast.
Clinique has a new product on the market for waking up your skin: the Pep-Start HydroRush SPF 20 Moisturizer. A long-lasting, lightweight daily moisturizer, the Pep-Start HydroRush boosts collagen. Available at local New York Clinique counters and at www.clinique.com for just under $30.
In this gift set from Maille, Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard is packaged in an exclusive stoneware jar from La Maison Maille, as packed in an elegant black and gold gift box. The rare upscale mustard meant for a foodie. Now sold at both www.maille.com and the Maille Flatiron Retail Store located at 927 Broadway.
A picnic in not ideal this time of year in New York, but this gift box from La Tienda may have you reconsidering that. This Spanish-themed tapas box for two includes La Riojja dry-cured chorizo sausage, Peregrino anchovy stuffed olives, Torres truffled potato chips, and Marcona almonds. It is available for order via www.latienda.com.
This Sonoma County wine has the color of a champagne diamond and is lively and racy with hints of pomegranate, golden delicious apples and wildflowers. It’s perfect for sipping alone, or works well with a large range of foods, including roast chicken, salmon, seared tuna, crab cakes, and ceviche. Or, of course, a Valentine’s favorite: strawberries and chocolate. This treat can be ordered from www.gothamwines.com.
Chocolate is synonymous with Valentine’s Day, but perhaps you will be craving some saltiness with the sweet. In that case, the Jacobsen Salt Co. has the Salty Candy Duo box, in which Black Licorice and Caramels are both wrapped up. Williams Sonoma sells these sweets, as does the company via www.jacobsensaltco.com. The brand also offers unique gift sets including Salt Of The Month Club and The Ultimate Pantry.
For those seeking a heavy metal-themed Valentine’s Day, well, Judas Priest has just re-issued its classic 1986 album Turbo as a three-disc set. In addition to the remastered original studio album, the set includes a full show from 1986’s Fuel For Life Tour, as recorded at Kansas City’s Kemper Arena. All the Priest hits are played and all the expected stage banter of Rob Halford is included. A wonderful rock time capsule featuring one of rock’s greatest bands.
Throughout the years, many beauty products have been considered prime. They’ve made it to the holy grail lists of many fashion and beauty bloggers, and make-up artists alike. Check out some of these always reliable, must-have beauty favorites!
Francois Nars’ NARS Blush in Orgasm is a peachy pink shimmer. What drives this product to its popularity is its versatility. A universally flattering shade that is repeatedly every user and make-up artists favorite.
Nordstrom.com; $30.
Again, NARS never disappoints with its Turkish Delight lipgloss. It’s definitely the most sought after shade in the NARS lip products line. Let’s blame its most infamous wearer, Kim Kardashian! The pink sherbet shade comes in a doe-foot applicator.
Sephora.com; $26.
Benefit puts the aesthetics of false lashes to the test with its They’re Real! Mascara.
Sephora.com; $24.
Get it all done with this effective one-step facial cleanser. Philosophy lives up to the hype.
Sephora.com; 8 oz. $24.
Smooth takes a moisturizing form in Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion.
Macys.com; 4.2 ox. $24.
Smith’s Rosebud Salve comes in various shades like minted rose, strawberry, and original. A favorite of Youtube make-up guru, Michelle Phan.
Sephora.com; $6.
Essie’s iconic color, Sugar Daddy, is a neutral no-color color that could be worn anywhere, and is universally flattering on every skin-tone.
Lashes are in full bloom this Spring with a number of must-have mascaras. Since lashes are what pulls eye makeup together, most women value the lengths of their lashes more than any other beauty elements. The hardest part about mascara is finding the best mascara that will be bold, long-lasting, and will serve as your go-to beauty tool. Here are some of the best for 2015:
Photo: Courtesy of harpersbazaar.com
1. Girogio Armani Eyes to Kill Excess Mascara
This is the perfect smoky eye mascara. Your lashes will look as shiny as patent-leather and ultra black. At $32, this dramatic mascara is perfect for a night out!
Photo: Courtesy of harpersbazaar.com
2. Clinique Lash Power Feathering Mascara
Clinique offers a different look with extra long bristles that work to separate every lash for a soft, fanned-out look. This look is much more subtle and absolutely perfect for everyday wear. At $17.50, this mascara is a little more reasonably priced which is perfect for frequent use.
Photo: Courtesy of harpersbazaar.com
3. Dolce&Gabbana Passion Eyes Mascara
D&G offers a curved brush that lifts our lashes. This is perfect for the days that we don’t have an eyelash curler at hand. Priced at $32, this mascara doubles as it curls while darkening the lashes.
Photo: Courtesy of harpersbazaar.com
4. M.A.C. False Lashes Mascara
M.A.C. makes your eyelashes realistically fake. Instead of dealing with glue and feathery, false lashes, you can experience the length and long lasting effects from a tube. This $21 mascara goes on smoothly and creates an immediate full and dramatic effect.
Photo: Courtesy of harpersbazaar.com
5. TOM FORD Ultra Length Mascara
This mascara creates a clean, natural lash that creates an defined and eye-catching effect. This is especially perfect for those with short or light lashes. It adds length and a darker tint for extra definition for $42.
A little mascara never hurts, so since you’ll be using it everyday it’s worth splurging a little. 2015 offers a number of mascaras that are perfect for day and night, whether you are catching a casual lunch with friends or complementing a cat-eye.
While plenty of women know that each season requires a different scent, some men may need a little more help. Here are our picks for top 5 summer scents for men.
1. Hermès Terre d’Hermès: Built around woody notes, Terre d’Hermès is designed for the man who is one with nature. The intensity of the woody elements blends with citrus for a vivacious and earthy scent.
2. Burberry Brit Rhythm: One of Burberry’s most iconic fragrances for men, Rhythm is sexy and provocative. Influenced by the energy and exhilaration of live music, this cologne is perfect for the guy who is out all night.
3. Clinique Happy for Men: Clinique’s most well-loved and popular scent, Happy, now has a version for men. With notes of mandarin, cedar, and cypress, it’s impossible to wear this scent without smiling.
4. Prada Luna Rossa Extreme: Prada skillfully combined 6 different ingredients to create their spicy and fresh scent, Luna Rossa Extreme. Inspired by summer days spent sailing in a gorgeous, crystal blue ocean, this cologne is designed for the athletic man.
5. Givenchy Gentleman Only: For the distinguished man of today, Givenchy’s Gentlemen Only is refined and elegant. Nutmeg, green mandarin and cedar wood capture the essence of the man who is modern, yet timeless.
