SceneTracker New York

Inside Maxim's Super Bowl '12 Party

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:09:41 -0500

For 11 years Maxim Magazine has thrown a party Super Bowl weekend to celebrate the momentous game. For the first time ever, the party extended to NY this year. Naturally I did everything in my power to procure a set of press passes so I can attend the event.

The Maxim party was held at the Greenwich Village Country Club. The venue, which is quite different than its name suggests, is located on the upper level of the NYC Bowling establishment Bowlmar, down near Union Square. The space reminds one more of Dave and Busters than a typical club/bar. With pool tables, bocci ball, a separate dance room, and even an indoor mini golf course, GVCC plays out more like an adult fun zone. Maxim's event completely took over the place on Saturday night and used each nook 'n crannie to its advantage to create a club atmosphere.

Upon entry, I was greeted to an impromptu cat walk featuring scantily clad "home town hotties." These girls make up the magazine's popular section of local girls who submit their photos to the magazine with the hope of being published and winning a reader-based vote. After the bikini fashion show ended, the girls huddled up to take photographs in the mini golf area for the media, and with any lucky dude who garnered up the courage to ask. Any mini golf course I play at in the future somehow will never seem as complete again...

The party wasn't exactly what I expected, but I guess I needed to be in Indianapolis, the actual site of the Super Bowl and Maxim's flagship party, for what I was hoping for. I didn't see the "athletes" and "celebrities" promised but they were perhaps in cooler areas of the club that I wasn't preview too. The crowd was a bit too bridge and tunnel for my liking, as well as extremely young, but all in all it was an easy going vibe. Drinks were never difficult to secure, bathroom lines were manageable, and there was no shortage of finding someone to dance with. Hopefully Maxim continues to promote events in NY and the party rep builds in the future to attract more notable guests. The event did serve as a great precursor for the game itself. Big weekend for the city of NY for sure!

Greenwich Village Country Club

110 Universty Place (Btw 12th and 13th)

212.255.8188

The Naked Apple: Knicks Breakout Star Jeremy Lin

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:27:00 -0500

I went to the Knicks game last Tuesday against the Pistons (which they won 113-86). Now while the Knicks are having a slow start….. to put it nicely….I couldn't help but notice one new player on the team. The point guard, 23 year old Jeremy Lin #17. There are very few professional athletes of Asian descent outside of baseball, so it's really great to see some of my people out there outshining even the likes of Carmelo Anthony. Lin was born in California to Taiwanese parents and went to Harvard.

His story is really a heartwarming one, and proves if you work hard and never give up on your dreams, anything is possible. He had all the odds against him, he wasn't guaranteed a spot at any of top basketball colleges, they actually told him he might be able to walk on. He was un-drafted after he graduated from college. He had a huge game a few days ago, scoring 25 points which helped the Knicks beat the Nets 99-92. On Saturday night he started and had 28 points against the Utah Jazz. I bet all those college recruits and NBA scouts are kicking themselves! I can't wait to see how the season unfolds for him. He's become a fan favorite, and I'm definitely rooting for him and will be buying a Lin jersey pronto. Gooooo Lin!!!!!!

New York Fashion Week Party Tracker

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:40:00 -0500

It can be easy to think that NYFW is all about exclusivity—we’re pretty sure we had to submit our press credentials to get access to the bathroom last year—but while most of the shows remain industry-only in order to maintain some semblance of order, more and more events outside of the Lincoln Center are being opened up to the public. Whether you’re looking to supplement your stack of invites with a few final events or just a casual fashionista looking to jump into the sartorial fray, you’ll be welcomed with open arms at the events below (some ticket purchase or RSVP required)!

Wednesday, February 8^th

The 3^rd Annual Fashion 2.0 Awards Ceremony
Kick off Fashion Week at The Fashion 2.0 Awards, launched in 2010 by Style Coalition, to recognize and honor the most innovative fashion brands in the online community. Mix and mingle with fashion greats like celebrity stylist Robert Verdi, designer Norma Kamali, and Gilt Groupe Founders Alexis Maybank and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson as they honor fashion industry innovators. Ticket purchase required for the VIP Cocktail Reception ($40) and Awards Ceremony ($20). 7—9:30 PM
SVA Theatre, 333 West 23^rd Street (between 8^th & 9^th Avenues)

[ edite ] and A.Turen Fashion Week Kick Off
An event to trigger your appetite for the week of great fashion ahead—take advantage of a big winter sale (read: add to your Fashion Week wardrobe) and preview the new spring collection while enjoying music and drinks. Free. 6—8 PM
A.Turen, 85 Stanton Street (at Allen Street)

Planete Chic New York Fashion Week
Planete Chic is focused on bringing both emerging and established domestic and International fashion houses to the world’s leading Fashion Weeks in order to help promote designers in competitive markets. View collections from global fashion talents including Espen Salberg and Shauntele, styled by EngieStyle. RSVP to planetechic@yellowskyagency.com. Free. 6—8 PM
Open House Gallery, 201 Mulberry Street (between Kenmare & Spring Streets)

Thursday, February 9^th

Nicholas Kirkwood at Saks Fifth Avenue
Meet designer Nicholas Kirkwood and preview his Spring 2012 collection at Saks. Receive a complimentary signature sketch or have your shoes signed by the designer. With your Nicholas Kirkwood shoe purchase, be one of the four customers to receive a limited edition framed sketch. RSVP to nyevents@saks.com. Free. 6—7:30 PM
Saks Fifth Avenue, 611 5^th Avenue (at 49^th Street)

POP-UP ART EVENT Celebrating Beauty Art Fashion
An homage to an emerging artist-ruled downtown NYC, celebrity makeup artists D’angelo Thompson and Juliet Silva Yee introduce POP-UP ART EVENT, a unique blend of beauty, art and fashion brought together. Celebrate emerging and established fashion photographers and illustrators with an evening of interactive arts, entertainment and spirits. Free. 7—10 PM
Lazzoni, 154 West 18^th Street (between 6th & 7th Avenues)
Official After-Party: Oficina Latina, 24 Prince Street (between Elizabeth & Mott Streets)

Pamela Quinzi Fashion Show and Launch Party
Join Hampton Daze Magazine for the Fall 2012 Pamela Quinzi Fashion Show and Cinderella of New York for Huntress launch party. Get all dolled up for an evening of fashion, fabulous shoes, and a special live performance by Holly T. RSVP mandatory to degoffice@gmail.com. Free. 8 PM
Room Service, 35 East 21^st Street (between Park Avenue and Broadway)

Friday, February 10^th

PLITZS New York City Fashion Week
PLITZS New York will be hosting the first night of their Designer Showcase Presentation, featuring 36 collections from emerging designers. Presentations are scheduled at 5 PM, 7:30 PM, and 10 PM. Ticket purchase required; $20 for standard tickets, $40 for VIP passes.
The Warwick Hotel, 65 West 54^th Street (at 6^th Avenue)

LuLu*s Style Studio
Join LuLu*s for a night of fashion and fun! Some of their favorite celebrity fashion bloggers will be on hand to offer personalized styling advice. Follow their Style Map to find your look, and then take home a special item from Lulus.com. Enjoy prizes, gift bags, food and more. Ticket purchase required. Free. 6—10 PM
Openhouse Gallery, 201 Mulberry Street

CRASH into Spring @ Brooklyn Industries
Brooklyn Industries will be celebrating the CRASH INTO SPRING fashion presentation and unveiling of the special edition CRASH handbag at their Union Square Store. DJ SoSuperSam, BKI Design Team, Cocktails, and sweet treats will all be on-hand to ensure a good time. RSVP to pr@brooklynindustries.com. Free. 7—9:30 PM
Brooklyn Industries, UNSQ, 801 Broadway

Saturday, February 11^th

The Fashion Week Party
Royale Marketing hosts the only fashion week party open to the public that’s actually at Lincoln Center. Swing by the Empire Hotel Rooftop Saturday night and enjoy music by Mel DeBarge as you gaze out over the city. Ticket purchase required; $20 for normal passes, $30 for VIP admission. 10 PM
Empire Hotel Rooftop, 44 West 63^rd Street

PLITZS New York City Fashion Week
PLITZS New York continues their Designer Showcase Presentation, featuring 36 collections from emerging designers. Presentations are scheduled at 5 PM, 7:30 PM, and 10 PM. Ticket purchase required; $20 for standard tickets, $40 for VIP passes.
The Warwick Hotel, 65 West 54^th Street (at 6^th Avenue)

Sunday, February 12^th

Marie Janae After Party
Hot fashion, hot people, an amazing venue, and loads of fun will be the hallmarks of the Marie Janae Fashion Week After Party. Free. 10:30—11:55 PM
Stash, 248 West 14^th Street (at 8^th Avenue)

Shop Indie 4 A Cause
Join People’s Resource and Development Association and indie designers for a purple-carpeted evening of fun, fashion, and charity. All event proceeds benefit the Anti-Generation Genocide Teen Anti-gun violence and entrepreneur program. Ticket purchase required; Free general admission, $10 for admission to the fashion show and media/designer mixer (plus obligatory swag bag). 2—10 PM
The Dwyer Culture Center, 258 Saint Nicholas Avenue (at 123^rd Street)

Monday, February 13^th

Same Sky + Nomi Network’s “An Evening of Cocktails and Shopping”
Same Sky + Nomi Network’s Francine LeFrak and Miss USA Alyssa Campanella will be celebrating “Shopping with a Heart” this valentine’s season. The event will feature Same Sky’s beautiful hand-blown glass beaded bracelets and necklaces, prosperity bracelets, and their signature fabric wrap bracelets. Nomi Network will be showcasing their iPad Covors, color blocked wallets, and cosmetic bags. RSVP to RSVP@samesky.com. 6:30—8:30 PM
Park Lounge at the Gansevoort Hotel, 420 Park Avenue South (at 29^th Street)

Soham Dave Fashion Week Party
Soham Dave is a fashion-forward line inspired by traditional crafts. Every piece is hand made by artisans in remote villages in India in an effort to fuse ancient organic and modern urban themes. RSVP here. Free. 6—10 PM
Empire Hotel Rooftop, 44 West 63^rd Street

Wednesday, February 15^th

Fame Rocks Fashion Week 2012
The New York Fame presents its second annual fashion week event, featuring emerging fashion designers and performing artists. Ticket purchase required; general admission starts at $50. 7 PM
The Manhattan Center Studios, 311 West 34^th Street (between 8^th & 9^th Avenues)

F.A.B. Fashion Week Party
The F.A.B Fashion Week Party combines fashion, art, beauty, and philanthropy to benefit the Toshi Now Foundation. Ticket purchase required; $40. 7—10 PM
Toshi's Playhouse in the Flatiron Hotel, 9 West 26^th Street (near Broadway)

Nightlife Guide to Clubs, Bars & Lounges - Joonbug

Code Purple Event NYC
Code Purple Event is throwing a huge fundraising fashion show the finale evening of Fashion Week on the deck of the USS Intrepid. The proceeds from the event will benefit production and distribution of mosquito-repelling garments with the goal of fighting malaria, the #2 killer in all of Africa. Ticket purchase required; $85. 7—11 PM
USS Intrepid, 700 West 46^th Street

New York Fashion Week Twilight Finale
Send Fashion Week off with a bang with Pinstripe Magazine and the Orphaned Starfish Foundation. Scheduled entertainment includes KDrew and the Broadway Dolls, DJ Fernando S, and DJ Vicki Wang. Ticket purchase required; $25. 8 PM
Nickel Spa, 77 8^th Avenue (at 14^th Street)

Real Fashion, Real Women
Celebrity Stylist Derek Warburton & Bottomless Closet team up to present the "Real Fashion, Real Women" Runway show for New York Fashion Week. These women, whose sizes range from 4-12, will prove that not only do fashion designers design with glamour in mind, but to show that our industry cares about its real consumer, the women who wear the clothes. Ticket purchase required; $50. 8 PM
The Empire Hotel, 44 West 63^rd Street

Fashion Philanthropy
Global Fashion New York Inc. and Fashionjunkii will be hosting a charity soiree to benefit the Murungu Primary School Project in Tanzania. The event will feature fashion presentations, a designer auction, cocktail reception, music and networking. Ticket purchase required; $30. 6 PM—1 AM
Studio XX1, 59 West 21^st Street (near 6^th Avenue)

[VIDEO] Le Baron Concert Series Kickoff with HeartsRevolution

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:11:00 -0500

The newly minted Le Baron hosted its smoky, leather-clad Concert Series kickoff party last night with HeartsRevolution. Unless you've been living down in the dungeons of the New York City subway system, you know Le Baron is the new Le hot spot. For those of you who missed the party, or simply couldn't get past the velvet rope, here's what went down in Andre Saraiva's Mulberry street bailiwick...

Nivea's Million Moments of Touch Party with Dr. Drew, Rebecca Romijn, Jerry O'Connell

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:26:00 -0500

Nivea hosted a launch party last night for their 'Million Moments of Touch' campaign with speaker Dr. Drew, and special surpise guests Rebecca Romijn and Jerry O'Connell. (He'll always be Vern from Stand By Me to us!) The event was held on the 61st floor of the Empire State building in a massive, blue-lit loft space. The only thing more distracting than the free-for-all Nivea products and Rebecca Romijn's striking beauty, was the sprawling 180 degree view of the New York City skyline. The view was probably one of the most beautiful I've ever seen of the city.

After stuffing my bag with Nivea goodies and stuffing my face with blue cotton candy (yes, everything was blue-themed, including the martinis, and Ms. Romijn's dress), I got a chance to harrass Jerry O'Connell (and the Mrs.) with my terrible Blackberry Torch camera phone --which kept freezing every time I tried to take a picture with them. But here's the best part: instead of being a huffing/annoyed celebrity, Jerry graciously took my phone and tried to fix the problem commenting jovially, "I had this phone too. It was horrible, I got rid of it!" He then continued to take pictures with me until we got a decent one that wasn't blurry. If this guy didn't steal your heart in Stand By Me, he will now. What a gentleman.

Nivea's 'Million Moments of Touch' campaign is to encourage couples to touch each other (PDA!) and be more affectionate. According to studies, 61% of women wish their partners touched them more, while 63% of men felt the same! With technology and texting taking over, couples are spending less and less time together. This campaign is to remind couples to make quality time for each other. I can personally relate to this sentiment, as can anyone who is trying to balance a relationship and a busy career. Perhaps if more couples strive to touch and communicate, they'd be happier, and the divorce rate wouldn't be 50%. Did we really need a skincare company to remind us of this?! Maybe. And to back up their campaign, they're also giving away all expenses paid date nights to random couples via Facebook.

All marketing purposes aside, what a great campaign. Bravo Nivea!

The Naked Apple: Superbowl at Ainsworth

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:50:36 -0500

Yay for the NY Giants!!!!! This is going to be an insane week with tons of celebrations. The Giants players will be hosting parties all week long. Tonight after the parade, Victor Cruz has a party at Kiss and Fly, while some of the other players like Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs will be hosting a big party at SL. That is the party I will definitely be at. A few Sundays ago when they won they literally landed back in NYC and went directly to SL (SL is without a doubt the best place to go to on Sunday nights). If you decided against going to the Superbowl in Indy, the second best place to be would have been Ainsworth! And that's where I was all day and night with my girlfriends, and Miss New York contestant, Brittany Marsh.

It's sad football season is over...I will miss Ainsworth on Sundays dearly. It was packed, and every table was sold out with lots of bottles. Ainsworth isn't your typical sports bar. First off, it has a way better looking crowd, and way better food than you would find at your corner Irish/sports bar. Now let's talk about my favorite parts of the Superbowl: the half time show and the commercials. Seriously, how freaking cute was the one with the french bulldog in running shoes?? I was too fixated on the cute dog to even remember what the commercial was for!!! Probably not a good thing for their advertising department.

The halftime show I thought was amazing! But as usual, everyone has different opinions. I'm not sure if it was the fact I was 8 drinks in by halftime, but I thought Madonna was fantastic! People forget how old she is, most people her age couldn't move like that. My lazy, out of shape ass, couldn't even do what she did without having to stop to lay down and rest. I can't even walk up a flight of stairs without my legs burning, and panting like a fat dog. I loved seeing Ceelo and LMFAO too. The mash ups were great. It was a great day for New York, and proud day for New Yorkers!!!! Hmmm, would be great to hit the trifecta and have the knicks and Mets win. Yes Mets, not the Yanks!!!!! I hope everyone had a great weekend!! More articles to come this week!

Follow me on Twitter @thenakedapple

Storybook Burlesque: The Works of Roald Dahl

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:06:00 -0500

Friday, February 10th brings a new and unusual spin to classic burlesque. Storybook Burlesque will be working with the Horse Trade Theater Group to present The Works of Roald Dahl at Kraine Theater at 8pm. Delve into your childhood with adult takes on classic stories like James and the Giant Peach, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Twits, and more.

Dare we even think of how they will interpret The BFG (big friendly giant)? Performers include, but are not limited to, Bitty Bamboo, Cheeky Lane, Iris Explosion, and more. The show promises to bring the fun, frivolous, creepy, dark, and sexy straight to the stage!

Tickets are $20 and are available for purchase here.

Our Weekly Party Picks

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:18:00 -0500

Monday

Le Baron "Encore!" Concert Series Launch

When Mon, February 6,11pm - 4am
Where: Le Baron

The newly opened hotspot by Andre Saraiva, Le Baron, is launching a concert series called, "Encore!" Kicking off with a show by HeartsRevolution. The evening is sponsored by Absolut and Spin magazine. We recommend getting there early --this is probably the the toughest door in NYC right now.

Tuesday

Jay-Z at Carnegie Hall for United Way of NYC and the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation

When: Tue, February 7,9:30 pm - 11:30 pm
Where: Carnegie Hall

Disclaimer: this party requires some very, um, expensive tickets. But if you're a Jay-Z fan with 99 problems, but money isn't one, this two night celebration is where you want to be. This concert, both Monday and Tuesday night, benefits the United Way of New York City and the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation. The cause raises millions of dollars to increase graduation rates in under privileged New York City schools while helping make college a reality for low-income students across all five boroughs. Get tickets here.

Wednesday

The Fashion 2.0 Awards

When Wed, February 8, 8pm
Where SVA Theatre, 333 West 23rd Street, New York, NY (map)

Here's a chance to attend a real fashion awards show. The Fashion 2.0 Awards honors fashion brands in the online community for their innovation using internet media and social media networks. The evening will be hosted by celeb stylist and TV personality, Robert Verdi. We hear the first Fashion 2.0 Visionary Award will be presented to Gilt Groupe Founders Alexis Maybank and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson! The perfect way to kickoff New York fashion week. Get your ticket here.

Thursday

Pop-Up Art Event Celebrating Beauty Art Fashion

When:      Thu, February 9, 7pm - 10pm
Where:     Lazzoni, 154 W. 18th St.

Join celeb makeup artists D'angelo Thompson and Juliet Silva Yee for their pop-up art event, that melds art, beauty, and fashion together for one extraordinary show. The evening will be hosted by "The Queen of NYC," Darian Darling. Enjoy complimentary beverages and a raffle benefiting the non-profit photography program, NYC SALT. The showcase will feature art from New York City-based artists: Ronald Cadiz, Keena Gonzalez, Veronica Ibarra, Emmett McCarthy, Wesley Nault, Gina Schiappacasse and Elizabeth Young. RSVP here.

Friday

47th Petroushka Ball

When: Fri, February 10, 8pm-2am
Where: Waldorf Astoria

Come out for the 47th annual Petroushka Ball at the Waldorf Astoria Grand Ballroom. This black tie evening will include dinner, drinks, and dancing to benefit disadvantaged children in Russia by providing medical care, education, and other vital programs to orphanages. Dinner Tickets: starting at $350 per ticket, Dance Tickets: $150, buy tickets online or contact 212-473-6263 or email main@rcws.org.

Saturday

The Fashion Week Party

When:      Sat, February 11,10pm
Where:     Empire Hotel Rooftop

Lincoln Center and Royale Marketing cordially invites you to the Fashion Week Party at the Empire Hotel rooftop. Join fashionistas, models, and designers to celebrate NYFW with a complimentary champagne open bar from 9-10pm. Get tickets here.

Sunday

For the Love of Chocolate

When:      Sun, February 12, 5pm-8pm
Where:     Hudson Terrace

The best way to wind down after a long week of partying is with chocolate, of course. iAdventure’s Chocolate will host a wine, beer and chocolate tasting on February 11th and 12th from 12-3pm and 5-8pm. Enjoy truffles, caramel, and pretty much every type of delectable chocolate while sipping wine and listening to jazz. Each tasting is $2 and includes 2oz samples of wine, beer, and chocolate fountain dips. Get your ticket here.

[UPDATE] Juliet Supper Club Surrenders to Eviction

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:06:46 -0500

After a long battle, Juliet Supper Club surrenders from their fight to stay open after the landlord filed a complaint for eviction. The club has been closed for the past three weeks due to many disreputable acts that have taken place in the club. The celebrity hot-spot opened back in 2009 and since then has entertained various celebrity types.

The club was shut down for violating the city's ban against smoking for a week, but the landlord finally decided enough was enough when two party-goers turned up dead.

Their landlord, Edison Properties, had a limitation in the lease that stated the space could not be used as a nightclub, which it accuses Juliet is. However, the establishment claims that it is just a supper club. After the owner gave a notice to fix the lease violation, Juliet filed a lawsuit in the New York State Supreme Court.

The fight has been an on-going battle since November, until now. According to The Real Deal, Juliet's lawyers decided to bow out from the suit to cease eviction proceedings. Their only reported evidence was that they had an extensive menu proving that they were a valid restaurant.

Will the supper club move to a different location? We guess the after-party for the Super Bowl will have to take place elsewhere because there is no longer any sign of Juliet, even their Facebook and Twitter accounts have been deleted.

Jullian James' Smashing Debut

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:55:10 -0500

What do you get when you cross Bruno Mars with Cabaret style? The answer lies in the music video and single release party that occurred this past Tuesday night, July 31st, at Manhattan lively nightlife spot Hudson Terrace. Singer Jullian James debuted his first single "My Sweet Radio" along with the accompanying music video.

Over 100 guests were on hand to view the video premiere, along with a special live performance by James and his band. Notable guests included Miss NY Amber Collins, Music Manager Bernadette Brennan, and Sean Gill of The Passengerz. The video and song simultaneously hit YouTube, iTunes, and Amazon. His album entitled "From My Integrated Soul", debuts later this year.

The evening began with an open bar and one of the best appetizer-to-person ratio I have ever seen. That's not to say the place was empty, but rather Hudson Terrace knew how to keep the crowd happy. Countless waiters and waitresses weaved in and out of the crowd with various signature finger foods that were each more fantastic than the next. Pork sliders, glazed sesame chicken, and lobster bites were just some of the stand out dishes being offered. The bar was also quite accessible with surprisingly friendly bartenders for an open bar atmosphere. One tender, who referred to himself as "Chopper," was particularly well-crafted as I watched him meticulously create my friend a Martini. Later in the night the music video was debuted on a projector, followed by a special performance by James, wearing what I can only describe as a disco ball turned into a sport jacket, sang the majority of his album with the same soul and passion that his hit single radiates.