Category: Where to Go

Advanced Style: Ageless Fashion

Posted on May 15, 2016August 7, 2016 by stilettocity

It all started with an inspiring grandmother. After losing her, photographer Ari Seth Cohen moved to New York, a city she always told he’d do well in, and began shooting older stylish women in an attempt to feel he’s grandmother’s spirit in his life again. Starting a blog Advanced Style, the photos became an internet sensation. These women, in their 60’s, 70s, 80s, even 90s weren’t invisible, grey-haired, frumpy-clothed, withering flowers. They were vibrant, full of color and a fantastical sense of ageless fashion. Their stylish looks as alive as they were, telling the world they were living life to the fullest and looking their best, no matter what anyone thinks.

*Valerie, Jean, Debra Rapoport, Diana Gabriel, Carol Markel: Advanced Style*

Then came a book, and a film showcasing these wonderful, stylish women. Ari started a movement – to see older women for their delightful, fashion-loving selves, all that they’ve accomplished and all they represent as bold, beautiful personalities full of world experiences that serve and an uncontainable force and inspiration to others.

Now he has a second book, “Advanced Style: Older and Wiser,” and I had the pleasure of seeing many of Ari’s women in person at the recent panel discussion at Book Soup – an iconic indie bookstore on the Sunset Strip that serves as a cultural epicenter for authors and those who celebrate a culture of enlightenment through books.

I stood in the audience as the ladies in the book entered the store and took a seat in the front. The tiny space allotted for readings forced them to step carefully through chairs squeezed between bookshelves, but also gave us a chance to check out their awe-inspiring beauty and amazing outfits. (Book Soup, you really need to a bigger space for these events!)

We learned a little about each lady and their lives. There’s Colleen, age 75, a stunning beauty who stays active by jogging 5 miles a day. Joy, age 77, a cancer survivor who has dedicated her life to the helping the developmentally disabled through her fashion-focused charity Helpers. Pearl, age 61, who was once married to the bass player in the Clash, performs in her own alternative band, has a handbag line, and uses music to feed her spirit.

Every lady shared a bit of their extraordinary life, not as a star, but as a message that everyone has their own story that is worth sharing. It was funny to hear how many had worn uniforms in school and relished the freedom they now have to express themselves and most were inspired by their mother’s fashion sense.

They all displayed their unique sense of style and urged their audience, hungry for their wisdom, to be yourself, go forth and never let age be hindrance.

I couldn’t help but approach some of these ladies to sign a copy of the book I bought for my mother, who has been my own fashion inspiration. And I have to give a heartfelt thank you especially to Joy, who upon learning my mother was in the hospital, wrote a loving note to her that brought tears to my eyes. Her kindness will never be forgotten.

With Joy Venturini Bianchi, Advanced Style

What a wonderful bunch of ladies! There are few times in life that we want to feel older instead of younger, but these ladies make it look so good I wish I too was “Advanced” so I could join their pack and hang with them all day!

What I Wore

I couldn’t go see a bunch of stylish ladies without a bringing some color to the party myself. So I put on my bright, vintage, ‘60s shift dress and go-go-style leather boots, paired with a swirly multi-colored bakelite bracelet and ‘60s-style clutch by V’s Bellos Tesoros, that I won by vying for it in an Instagram contest.

What to Wear

If books are an inspiration to you like they are to me, show how much you love them by letting some bookworm style and ageless fashion sense shine through with this adorable bookshelf skirt topped with a ruffle-collar, vintage-inspired top. A snappy pair of wedge-heeled shoes will keep you comfy while browsing through bookstores and you can pay for your new reading finds by reaching into a book-shaped handbag. Click the links to shop* this look!

Book Soup is located at 8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Be sure to check out:

Advanced Style

Advanced Style: Older and Wiser

Advanced Style: The Film

Photos from the book courtesy of Advanced Style

Go forth and conquer – in style,
Kastle

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Tags: Advanced Style, Book Soup, books, Kastle Waserman, where to go in Los Angeles

Category: Where to Go

Horsing Around at Santa Anita Park

Posted on May 8, 2016May 12, 2016 by stilettocity

Every year the Kentucky Derby brings a party of horse lovers, hats and mint juleps for the most exciting two minutes in sports and to see some of the fastest horses run for the roses. While not everyone can get to the Churchill Downs to see the famous horse race in person, we in Southern California have our own horseracing venue, the gorgeous, historic Santa Anita Park.

Me and my gang of vintage-loving friends converged on the Park on Derby Day to enjoy a day at the races in what’s been called the “World’s Most Beautiful Race Track.” Opened in the 1930’s with the majestic palm tree dotted San Gabriel Mountains in the backdrop of the racetrack, the Streamline Modern architecture of the venue and a luxurious interior, it embraces everyone in old school elegance and California charm.

A day at the races is nothing short of exciting. From checking out the horses coming down the paddock, to placing bets, to seeing the horses storm out of the gate and the thunderous sounds of their run past the stands, it’s the thrill of it all that makes the day special. And we got to watch the Kentucky Derby itself on the big screen. It was almost like being there!

What I Wore

Hats are a must on Derby Day, and not just any hat, the bigger the better. And while there was a hat contest at the Park that gave the prize to the most garishly-decorated hat, my group went more for vintage class. I pulled out my favorite ‘50s-era dress hat, paired with a green sharkskin vintage shift dress, a faux fur-collared short jacket and sparkly vintage rhinestone starburst brooch.

What to Wear to the Races

Horse-themed clothing is always a fun choice when going to the tracks. This horse print dress does the trick. Add some sparkle with a lucky horse brooch and ground the look with some authentic riding boots. Don’t forget a big, statement-making hat! Click the links to shop* this look!

Congratulations to Kentucky Derby winner Nyquist and runner-up Exaggerator (winner of our own Santa Anita Derby in April!) We’ll see you at the Preakness!

Santa Anita Park is located at 285 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA 91007

And they’re off!
Kastle

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Category: Where to Go

Going Vintage Style at Fair Oaks Pharmacy

Posted on May 1, 2016August 7, 2016 by stilettocity

Located right along famous Route 66, Fair Oaks Pharmacy is a throwback to decades past when the local soda fountain drugstore was where the community would go for an ice cream, pick up some personal care, maybe little gift, and chat with friends and neighbors. Heck, Hollywood has a history of beautiful starlets being discovered in the local soda shop. So it felt like stepping back in time when I went to meet some gals at this 100-year-old, vintage style, Pasadena institution for a vintage day out.

The place is full of charm from its Tiki-style trim around shelves of retro memorabilia and toys. There’s a full room just for shopping for kitschy knick-knacks. If the giant ice cream sundaes aren’t enough to satisfy your sweet tooth, you can also pick up some can from the wall of candy jars featuring vintage flavors. Need a last minute gift? There’s full selection of bath and body products and greeting cards. You can even pick up a prescription from the health center, which is a full fledge compounding facility.

Why don’t they make ‘em like this anymore? The Fair Oaks Pharmacy is an idyllic cornerstone to a quaint street of little shops that’s perfect for a stroll on a nice day.

What I Wore

It’s only fitting to wear vintage style for such a historic spot. And on this perfect springtime California day, I wore one of my favorite, colorful, sheath dresses. I love that this one has a little belt to give it more shape definition. I paired it with my baby blue vintage reproduction shoes and matching vintage straw purse.

What to Wear

With spring in the air, it’s time for vintage style florals. A fitted shift dress can take you from day to night. You can step out to your local ice cream shop, then dance the night away in these retro reproduction microsuede heels. Find a matching vintage purse, like this sweet straw handbag by searching “blue straw purse” on eBay. You’ll be ready for any occasion. Click the links to shop* this look!

Fair Oaks Pharmacy is located at 1526 Mission St, South Pasadena, CA 91030

See you at the soda shop!
Kastle

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Tags: Fair Oaks Pharmacy, Kastle Waserman, vintage style

Category: Where to Go

Circus Style at the California Institute of AbnormalArts

Posted on April 25, 2016May 2, 2016 by stilettocity

Step right up folks, you’ll see things beyond your imagination! On a quiet little strip of Burbank Boulevard in North Hollywood is a nightclub where the atmosphere is just as entertaining as the acts on its stage. California Institute of AbnormalArts (C.I.A.) is where the circus comes to town every night.

Run by ever-eccentric, purveyor of the unusual, Carl Crew, the venue features a wide array of oddities such as severed heads and mummified clowns to Chinatown-themed lanterns and signage. Part museum and part live music venue, the place also feature sideshow-type events, freak shows, burlesque performances and puppetry acts. The walls are adorned with vintage-style circus murals. Even the box office, where you’ll likely find Crew greeting his guests, is a huge half face, half skeleton head.

I first discovered this venue a few years ago and did on article on it for the LA Times, which you can read here. On a recent night, I was able to catch an unusual billing of the ‘80s goth/glam band Gene Loves Jezebel featuring Michael Aston, along with a sword swallower act.

Not a place for the faint of heart, it is a place where you’ll find something unique and literally off the beaten track.

What I Wore

Pulling out the biggest hat in my wardrobe, my bright pink pillbox felt fit for a retro ringleader. I paired it with a matching pink purse and black wiggle dress with keyhole detail. Some pink vintage, lobe-climbing, clip-on earrings and silver brooch completed my nightclub look.

Let Your Freak Flag Fly Circus Style

If you’re feeling ready to witness the wild or bizarre on your nightclub outting, incorporate a little retro circus style in your wardrobe with this fun Under the Big Top print skirt featuring clowns, circus tents and animal acts. Pair it with a cut-out top and scallop-trimmed heels. A shiny, retro handbag puts a big bow on the complete look! Click the links to shop* this look!

CIA is located at 11334 Burbank Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601

It’s the greatest show on earth,
Kastle

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Tags: bars in Los Angeles, California Institute of AbnormalArts, Kastle Waserman, LA Nightclubs, nightclub

Category: Where to Go

Trip Report: Layered Look for Springtime in Denver

Posted on April 6, 2016July 20, 2016 by stilettocity

Sometimes you just have to get out of town to escape the craziness of life. For me, a quick, budget-friendly, road trip up to Denver did the trick. I’ve had this city on my travel wish list and I was eager to experience some real winter weather (which we never get in LA!)

Denver seems to be on everyone’s radar lately, with the legalization of marijuana and lots of neighborhood rejuvenation, particularly in the downtown area, but it’s the beautiful mountain scenery and entrepreneurial spirit that drew me there. Craft beer is big, the art and media scene is booming with lots of creative energy, and big ol’ Google is moving into nearby Boulder.

There’s even a vintage scene for little ol’ me. I found some great vintage shopping along South Broadway, picked up a vintage purse at Night and Day Vintage and a lacy slip at Boss Unlimited. I checked out the punky alt styles at Fashion Nation where I met retro-lovin’ scenester and hairstylist Polly Rockett (be sure to check out her handmade hair flowers!).

A hipster Goodwill store, which was super clean and organized, came to the rescue when we were surprised by an incoming snowstorm. I scored a snow-protecting winter coat and brand new waterproof snow boots on the cheap because this LA girl didn’t have warm enough clothes! After running my new-to-me coat through a dry cleaner, it kept me toasty warm while hurling snowballs at my man!

SoBro, as they call it, is bustling at night with youthful energy and plenty of bars and restaurants. But it was the rockabilly hangs that I was interested in. We had dinner at Gary Lee’s Motor Club and Grub, crazy ice cream flavors at Sweet Action, popped our heads in for some live music at the Skylark Lounge and had cocktails and donut holes at Adrift Tiki Bar.

We explored other areas around town including strolling Larimer Square and 16^th Street Mall, which is magical at night with sparkle lights and horse drawn carriages, One of my favorite stops was Union Station, a beautiful, historical train station, lovingly preserved, which felt ultra elegant, safe and clean, with lots of shops and cafes. That’s how travel should be everywhere!

I had pure food joy when we stopped for dinner at Ted’s Montana Grill, a restaurant owned by Ted Turner, where I tried bison meat for the first time. What a pleasant surprise! It’s a very light meat, a little sweet, low fat and ultra healthy. Not only that, it was cooked perfect medium rare. I’m a fan.

I also discovered the wonder of Voodoo Donuts, I spotted a girl carrying a box of them and immediately hit Google until I tracked it down and had me a giant sugar rush with a “McMinnville Donut” (raised yeast shell filled with Bavarian cream, topped with maple frosting and a set of eyes and mustache.) I had heard about this crazy donut shop when it opened in Portland and was excited to find one on our trip – it’s worth waiting the ever present long lines to get that fix!

What I Wore

For someone who lives in a warm climate, I’m always a little puzzled on how to look cute and sleek while bundling up. While the clothes I brought on my trip didn’t quite make the cut when Colorado’s temperatures dropped suddenly, they served me as best they could. I paired a mod striped black sweater, over a t-shirt and some skinny black jeans over thin base layer leggings, and pointy ankle boots. My e-tip gloves let me use my phone while keeping my hands warm, and a cute, cherry-print scarf kept my hair in check and added a festive pop of springtime color to counter all the black.

Wearing a Layered Look

In Denver, the snowiest month of the year is March. So while everyone else is celebrating the arrival of springtime, Denverites can find themselves digging out of a blizzard, followed by very mild days. So what’s a girl to wear? A layered look! And just because it’s still cold at the turn of spring doesn’t mean you can’t bust out some colorful florals, like this botanical print full skirt. Pair the bold floral with another bold print of a striped sweater with sweet bow tie to create a strong yet playful look. You can always take the sweater off to reveal a statement-making t-shirt such as this book lover’s tee (Denver is home to many bookstores!) And don’t leave home without a jacket to stay warm when the temperature suddenly drops. This storm-ready trench coat in bright red does the trick and adds to the overall look rather than just being practical for warmth. Click the links to shop* this look!

So even if spring throws you a surprise cold front, you’ll be ready.

Layer on,
Kastle

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Tags: Denver, Kastle Waserman, layered look, South Broadway, Travel

Category: Where to Go

Country Western Style at the Saddle Ranch Chop House

Posted on March 30, 2016March 31, 2016 by stilettocity

The Sunset Strip may be known as the home of rock ‘n’ roll debauchery, bands breaking into the big time, and fine dining between party stops, but one place that stands out among the pack – the country western stylings of the Saddle Ranch Chop House.

Just its presence on the Strip promises you’ll be in for a unique experience, looking like a larger-than-life honky tonk with feather boa-draped saloon dollies out to greet you on the balcony. Step inside the action and you’ll be seated around a mechanical bull ring where brave patrons take a wild ride for all to see.

We took a seat in a booth and longingly eyed the bigger-than-your-head cotton candy desserts served at other tables. But cocktails were more my speed to quench my sweet tooth so I ordered up one of their signature drinks – a Spike Honey Lemonade with honey whiskey (Mmmm!) peach schnapps, raspberry liqueur and lemonade with a splash of soda.

The wait staff seem to specialize in down-home hospitality as they came around to greet us, as well as other staff members offering up some memorabilia for sale. I was told the place makes a mean steak so I ordered up a slow roasted Tri-Tip and oh my, they weren’t lyin’! That was one juicy, tasty steak, cooked just right!

We were quite entertained with all the wannabe cowboys testing their luck on the mechanical bull and with the entire scene in general. While this place may be a favorite for the tourist crowd, it’s also fun for locals to experience a little something different on the Los Angeles landscape. Yeeehaw!

What I Wore

For a night at of country western stylin’ I wore my vintage-inspired square dancers T-shirt from Atomic Swag with a simple, black, pencil skirt. My trusty, old black cowboy boots adorned with a concho boot strap came out to play, and a red bandana head scarf completed the look.

Going Country Western Style
To go for retro country western style for the night, you can always grab one of the great T’s from Atomic Swag and pair it with some jeans. Or go more pinup with a cute bandana print dress, topped with a sweet hat with bandana hatband. Don’t forget your cowboys boots partner! Click the links to shop* this look!

So head out for a night on the Strip, a good steak, and ride ’em cowboy!

The Saddle Ranch Chop House is located at 8371 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Boy howdy!
Kastle

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Tags: Country Western Style, Kastle Waserman, restaurants in Los Angeles

Category: Where to Go

Punk Style at Lethal Amounts Gallery

Posted on March 6, 2016March 9, 2016 by stilettocity

Art and counterculture often go hand in hand and no gallery in LA acknowledges that more than Lethal Amounts near downtown LA. The gallery showcases art and photography by and of people of rock ‘n’ roll scenes of the past who have grown to iconic status and influenced both street fashion and musical movements. Lethal Amounts exhibit openings are usually not-to-be-missed events where you’ll often bump into some famous names and familiar faces of the local LA scenes and beyond. Exhibit openings are often followed by an after party at the neighboring Monty Bar, so the party can go all night long!

On a recent night, Lethal Amounts featured an exhibit celebrating “Lobotomy: The Brainless Magazine,” a fanzine founded by legendary punk scenester Pleasant Gehman in 1978. Copies of the cut ‘n’ pasted, often handwritten ‘zine became art along with photos by chief photographer Theresa Kereakes, whose images of such bands as The Cramps, The Ramones, Blondie, The Germs and the Go-Go’s have since become iconic and historical references for that time period.

Lobotomy existed at the time when punk was still considered “underground music” and there were few barriers put up by record companies and publicists to block access to the bands. Pleasant and her clever team knew almost everyone in the club scene and those who worked the legendary Tropicana Hotel, where most of the bands stayed while in town, so it was easy for her to approach bands directly to ask for an interview. Punk legends The Cramps, The Damned, The Clash, Billy Idol, The Go Gos, The Jam and Joan Jett were all featured in Lobotomy. Along with other Los Angeles fanzines Slash and Flipside, Lobotomy paved the way for DIY publishing and gave the punk scene a voice.

Also on display that night were photos by David Arnoff of the Cramps, Misfits, Siouxsie and the Dead Boys, which provided a nice complement to the main exhibit.

Spotted in the crowd were Miss Mercy of the GTOs, Blondie’s Clem Burke, DJ/musician Howie Pyro, and Pleasant’s former Disgraceland roommates Iris Berry and Ash Shown. The legendary punk flophouse is currently the subject of a documentary-in-progress that was filming at the reception.

Kastle Waserman and Clem Burke from Blondie, Lethal Amounts Gallery reception March 2016 — with Clem Burke from Blondie

Former Disgraceland residents Iris Berry and Ash Shown

What I Wore

As punk teenager growing up in Houston, I heard all about Disgraceland and the punk scene in LA, it was one of the reasons I moved here. Back then I had a giant black Mohawk and studded leather jacket (see photo here!) These days my punk style is a little more subtle and chic. So for this art opening, I pulled out a black tank top paired with a double-layered, black, pinstripe vest. Black and white pinstripes are always my staple look of punk style, probably because that’s what I saw many of my idols wear. I added a pop of color with a green pencil and a bit of danger with silver, spiky studded stilettos. I could seriously hurt someone in these, they are sharp! My big roomy Lux DeVille handbag is always a go-to and reminds me of the car interior of a hotrod. And of course, I keep warm with my trusty moto jacket.

Dressing with Modern Punk Style

While you can take punk style to the full hardcore extreme of black leather and studs, it’s also fun to put a girly twist on it, such as pairing a tough, studded, black, vegan leather vest with bubblegum pink studded heels. Then put the power of the press on your back with a newspaper print bag. Let the punk details shine with a muted pencil skirt in grey to add some slinkiness to the silhouette. Click the links to shop* this look!

Be sure to check out Lethal Amounts to get your fill of rock ‘n’ roll’s alternative history!

Lethal Amounts Gallery is located at 1226 W. 7th St Los Angeles Ca 90017

Ready, steady, go!
Kastle

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Tags: disgraceland, Kastle Waserman, lethal amounts gallery, lobotomy fanzine, Pleasant Gehman, punk style

Category: Where to Go

Retro Glam Style at General Lee’s

Posted on February 28, 2016May 2, 2016 by stilettocity

Looking like one of those bars you have to be in-the-know about, General Lee’s is subtly tucked into Chinatown Plaza, with a tiny neon sign above the doorway. Enter and you’ll find two floors to explore. Tiki-style palm frond upholstery jazzes up the conversation-inducing seating arrangements as part of the Asian-influenced interior design by William Edwards. Expert mixologists behind the venue’s two bars will keep you enticed with creative libations crafted with clever ingredients.

The bar itself has quite a history, its name pays homage to General Lee’s Chinese restaurant, which occupied the space from 1878 to 1985, which was a favorite spot of Frank Sinatra, Gary Cooper and Judy Garland.

It’s now known as a favorite watering hole for those seeking interesting cocktails and an old school vibe. The venue also hosts occasional live DJs.

What I Wore

The night I went, the world was still reeling from the passing of David Bowie, so I decided to put together an outfit to pay tribute the best way I knew how – with fashion. Drawing from one of my favorite films, “The Hunger,” I channeled Bowie’s immortal lover Miriam (played by Catherine Deneuve) with a mix of seductive retro glamour and sophistication. A sparkly, low cut , three-quarter sleeve wiggle dress provided some sexy retro glam style with spiky stilettos and fishnet stockings. I added a vintage purse with a bit of fringe trim, and the look was completed with a black pillbox hat and veil that Miriam would surely favor, and marked my mourning for the great Starman.

Dressing Retro Glam

To bring some retro glam style to your look, think bling and sophistication. A little sparkle in your outfit or accessories, such as this bedazzled retro style evening bag, helps you get your glam on without overdoing it. A sleek silhouette, such as this cap sleeve wiggle dress in a deep green hue, will up your game. Fishnet stockings bring just the right amount of sexy. Then top it off with a veiled hat or fascinator for just the right amount of drama. Click the links to shop* this look.

Now go out and be glamorous!

General Lee’s is located at 475 Gin Ling Way, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Style on,
Kastle

Shag Store photos courtesy of the Shag Store.

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Tags: bars in Downtown LA, bars in Los Angeles, glam style, Kastle Waserman, LA Nightclubs, nightclub, retro style

Category: Where to Go

Grooving with Mod Style at the Shag Store

Posted on February 21, 2016March 11, 2016 by stilettocity

If ever you want to feel the Tiki party lifestyle spirt, all you a have to do is look at a Shag painting. The Southern California artist has become famous for his mod style imagary of slinky babes dancing, scooter riding and toasting cocktails with suave gentleman, while ever-watching kitty confidants lurk in the shadows. The colorful scenerios and lavish midcentury modern backgrounds appeal to the Tiki culture esthetic of escapism and aspiration. It’s the kind of world we would all like to live in. It’s Shag’s world and we are lucky enough to be able to immerse ourselves in it through his art and his Shag stores in Palm Springs, and now Los Angeles.

I stopped by the newly opened Melrose Avenue store in the posh design quarter of West Hollywod to check out the Shag goodies.

From pillows to barware, stickers to jewelry, and of course framed pieces of Shag artwork, the Shag store is a burst of bright colors and a cheerful, frisky spirit. I just couldn’t leave there without a set of Shag-painted old fashioned cocktail glasses and a Shag design Tiki necklace. You’ll likely find new items in the store all the time as Shag a master marketer, creating designs that are for limited editions only, increasing the demand and value of his work.

The artist, Josh Agle whose handle of Shag is a mix of his first name and last name, is also one cool cat, often seen at local vintage bars and Tiki events around SoCal. I had the great pleasure of interviewing him a few years ago about his inspiration and work. Read the interview here.

And be sure to check out the Shag stores in Los Angeles and Palm Springs for a host of unique items that are sure to up the cool factor in your home decor.

What I Wore

You can’t think of Shag without thinking of bold colors and mod prints. For my visit to the Shag store, I wore a vintage, 1960’s top with groovy floral design. I paired it with a pair of black capri pants, perfect for jumping on a scooter like many of the girls in Shag’s illustrations. A pair of high heeled, patent leather Mary Janes complete the look and of course, I left the store with an extra accessory – the aforementioned Shag Tiki design necklace.

Get Mod Style

To capture the spirit of the mod ladies of Shag’s world, think 1960’s-era playfulness with a touch of sly, sophiaticated flirtation. A light sweater with colorful scooters instantly sets the tone, as do a pair of capri pants that ready you for adventure. Top off the look with gold tone accessories with such as circle purse and wedge heels that will take you from daytime fun to a nighttime party. Click the links to shop* this look.

Shag the Store is located in:

Los Angeles at 8443 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Palm Springs at 725 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Shop with your groove on,
Kastle

Shag Store photos courtesy of the Shag Store.

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Tags: Kastle Waserman, Mod Style, Shopping in Los Angeles, Tiki Style

Category: Where to Go

Swing Dress Style to Heart Clifton’s Cafeteria

Posted on February 14, 2016May 2, 2016 by stilettocity

We waited for it. Word spread throughout Los Angeles a few years ago that Clifton’s Cafeteria would be undergoing a massive renovation and reopening. Finally, in the fall of last year, Clifton’s double doors ushered in a new era – and it did not disappoint! With it’s all encompassing design full of intrigue and whimsy, it’s a place to be whether you are out for a casual meal or fancy cocktails. It quickly became the largest jewel in the crown of a revitalization-in-progress in Downtown LA’s Historic Core.

Originally opening in 1935 and decorated in the style of the Brookdale Lodge, where founder Clifford Clinton spent much of his childhood, Clifton’s was known as the world’s largest cafeteria and attracted everyone from luminaries such as Walt Disney, to blue collar workers, to the depression era’s down ‘n’ out who were welcomed with the policy of, “pay as you wish.”

The new Clifton’s retains much of the quirky charm of the original, including a forest theme featuring a five-story redwood tree sprouting right through the middle of the venue, as well as waterfalls and charming bridges, and winding, cavernous paths dotted with taxidermy wild animals – a tribute to founder Clinton’s love of hunting (though if you hold your phone over the nearby plaques, you’ll hear about wildlife conservation efforts.)

Under the carefully guided vision of its latest owner, Andrew Meieran (known for his stunning creation of the Edison Bar), the new Clifton’s has three floors to explore with a bevy of treats for the eyes and belly. The Cafeteria is located on the first floor with classic foods from pizza to pie to Jell-O. On the second floor is the Monarch Bar where you can socialize in elegant style under the giant redwood tree and take your trays of food up to the many tables and chairs and nooks and crannies to dine with your peeps. On the third floor is a Gothic Bar, which offers dramatic style. More rooms and bars are expected to open in the near future including a Tiki Bar, which my little circle of friends are quite excited about!

What I Wore

I went to meet friends for Valentine’s weekend cocktails so I felt a frothy, feminine vintage-style swing dress was in order. I’ve always considered myself a pencil skirt, wiggle dress kind of girl but with some recent purchases of a full circle skirts and dresses, I’ve been enjoying the new silhouette. Pair it with a voluminous petticoat and you have a classic ‘50s heartbreaker, such as this look I put together with a red, floral swing dress and black petticoat peeking out to accent the pattern. Some delicate, vintage-inspired earrings and black pumps completed the look – and a rose from my sweetie!

How to Have Swing Dress Style

You’ll feel like the belle of the bar in a swing dress with a fun print and a frothy petticoat underneath like this dress in hot pink with white polka dots. Add a white petticoat to compliment the print and you won’t be able to help but sway bath and forth like sweet Sandra D. in “Grease.” Some classic pumps will take you higher and balance the look with ultra girl appeal. Click the links to shop* this look.

If you’re in LA, you simply must check out Clifton’s Cafeteria, have a drink and enjoy their “cabinet of curiosities!”

Clifton’s is located at 648 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014

We heart you Clifton’s!
Kastle

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Tags: bars in Downtown LA, bars in Los Angeles, Historical Sites, Kastle Waserman, LA Nightclubs, nightclub, restaurants in Los Angeles, retro style