Life’s Little Pleasures

When we were in college, we were college poor. We spent a lot of time eating ramen noodles and mac n’cheese. Thinking back, that could have been because our priorities were slightly askew. We spent all our bucks on shoes. And clothes. And handbags. We might have been poor, but dammit, we were determined to look like a million bucks!

And, oh! what we could have done (then and now) with a million bucks at Amenity Shoes’ newest location on NW 23rd. Unlike their Fremont boutique, this one focuses on comfort and style that’s only for women. That’s right! Leave your hubby at home this round! Unless, of course, he needs Christmas ideas, because we are already drawing up our wish list, from super tall, super sexy wedge boots to adorable purple pumps with gray suede lining. We also had our eye on a divine metallic purse, perfect for upcoming holiday parties.

What a relief that we’ve actually got a “for real” income now to sustain our shopping habit… not only that, we can still eat a “for real” dinner post-shopping!

Amenity Shoes
820 NW 23rd Ave.
Portland, OR 97210
503.224.2002
www.amenityshoes.com

Pedal Power

Admittedly, science wasn't exactly our strong subject in school. (Hey, we’re writers!) That said, we were nonetheless fascinated by the science geeks—first, because we were secretly in love with their charming awkwardness, and second, for the heart they put into their experiments—from egg drops to predicting the weather. But it was the human-powered stuff we found especially interesting.

So when a friend, after poking at our mid-section, mentioned a new human-powered gym, we had to see for ourselves. And sure enough, the Green Microgym generates electricity from the spin bikes and cardio machines, and pools power from solar panels on the roof. Of course, the entire gym is green—hence the name—boasting cork, marmoleum, and recycled rubber floors, plus LCD TVs and EnergyStar-rated ceiling fans.

With truly state-of-the-art cardio equipment, ample space for yoga and core training, and a full weight room, the Green Microgym may look similar to other gyms, but it’s more. Here, we can feel good about leaving with a smaller booty—and leaving a smaller footprint on the earth!

The Green Microgym
1237 NE Alberta St.
Portland, OR 97211
888.300.4015
www.thegreenmicrogym.com

Bring it On

We get a little sad this time of the year. We’re Portlanders through and through, but that doesn’t mean we don’t love ourselves some sunshine year-round. But we manage to get by because we know that we can always count on retail therapy to bring a little sunshine into our lives, which is exactly what happened last weekend when we walked into Frank James.

This adorable new shop is exactly what we have been waiting for. With dresses by Hype and Minkpink, sweaters by Industry and Kensie, and hard-to-find brand-name jeans including Level 99, Oak, and Naked and Famous, we simply couldn’t be happier. Frank James also carries clothing for men and a beautiful selection of jewelry that would make any girl’s heart flutter. Ours did, especially when we saw the hand-cut metal Braille cuff and the Moth earrings by Aaron Saucier.

We say: Bring on the rain, Portland. Frank James will provide the sunshine and a new outfit or two to boot!

Frank James
723 E. Burnside
Portland, OR 97214
503.239.2959
www.frankjamesclothing.com

Smells Like… School Spirit?

Full disclosure—we were cheerleaders in college. But don’t hate. It was only for a couple of years. We finally realized that we should focus more on academics than ego-strokes and we quit. But that’s not to say that we quit our school spirit, because trust us, we’ve still got it!

And rah-rah for us because McMenamin’s just opened a new bar in their Kennedy School location. The Boiler Room is a sports-focused bar complete with three flat-screens, pool, shuffleboard, and of course, that iconic McMenamin’s touch. Honestly, it is our favorite McMenamin’s bar yet. We can’t decide why… maybe it’s the unique boiler-esque looking décor accents mixed with the rock n’ roll paraphernalia, or maybe it was just that familiar McMenamin’s feel? We’re not sure.

To make it even more sporty, the Boiler Room has an exclusively pizza-type menu, complete with cheesy calzones and breadsticks. And if we must be dragged once again to a pub that screens Monday Night F-ball, we’re glad it’s a place that can bring out the cheerleader in us—pom-pom free.

The Boiler Room at the Kennedy School
5736 NE 33rd Ave.
Portland, OR 97211
503.249.3983
www.kennedyschool.com

What’s New About You?

We haven’t lost weight, we certainly haven’t been working out any more than usual, we’ve been sleeping fairly poorly and frankly, we’re not on our A game. So why does everyone keep telling us how good we look? It must be the makeup.

Oh, and the treatments we’ve received at Della Bella Minerals & Aesthetics. It’s a lovely, skin-focused spa that offers clinical skincare at affordable prices. Yes, please! Since we discovered it we’ve pampered ourselves with anti-aging treatments and the dynamic-dual Vitamin C facial with diamond-tip microdermabrasion, but they also offer services for pigmentation disorders, acne and scarring. Ask yourself, “What can I do to improve my skin?” and Della Bella has the answer.

Now back to their makeup. Owner/aesthetician Elizabeth Pasko founded the mineral makeup line Della Bella, which is pure and contains no cheap fillers—she also carries the finest, softest, cruelty-free brushes available. New clients: Mention Portland Picks and receive the Signature Vitamin C facial for only $55 (regularly $85!) until Oct. 31.

Della Bella Minerals & Aesthetics
4949 SW Landing Drive
Portland, OR 97239
503.840.2922
www.dellabellaminerals.com

Sameunderneath, Elroy Apparel and Christopher Bevans

Study these photos—thanks to Sameunderneath, Elroy Apparel and Christopher Bevans (respectively), they represent some of the must-have-iest design this side of NYC. See them up close and very personally at Portland Fashion Week, Oct. 8–12—get your tickets now!

Inspired by the political and social revolution of Cuba in the 1970s, Sameunderneath’s Spring/Summer 2009 Collection will feature cool blues, bright whites and militant greens in bamboo fabric and organic cotton. www.sameunderneath.com

Elroy Apparel’s collection is influenced by the ocean—imagine your favorite seaside spot as their organic apparel “tides” down the runway. You’ll feel blissful and fashionable in their stylish yet eco-friendly designs. www.elroyapparel.com

Christopher Bevans presents a premium menswear collection with attention to fit, tailoring and detail. It has already caught the eye of celebrities such as John Legend, Lance Armstrong, Jay-Z, and Kanye West, to name a few. www.ChristopherBevans.com

You Saucy Girl

Now that fall is here, our thoughts become more amorous. What’s better than cozying up under a blanket with your main squeeze? And we definitely feel more romantic when the sun sets before 9 pm. Our clocks just work that way.

But to spark the fires burning within, we still need a little help. This seductively scented votive from the uber-hip lingerie house Agent Provocateur is just what we need to ignite the flames of loooove.

Agent Provocateur

Local, Bawdy and Fabu!

We took our cousin to see Darcelle and we expected her to squirm, but she had the time of her life. You likely know a bachelorette who spent her “last night” there, or a couple who celebrated their anniversary at Darcelle XV, the oldest drag club in the nation—and right in our backyard.

Go behind the scenes via a new DVD called Queens of Heart. It’s a moving tribute to Darcelle and a spectacle of glamour and good times. Almost as fun as being there!

www.cinemalibrestore.com

Absolute Essentials

We have been giving little packets to people and, saying, “Smell this.” We can’t get enough and we need to share them with the world.

No, we’re not insane, but we are ridiculously addicted to the amazingly scented, antibacterial, essential-oil towelettes by Herban Essentials. We use them before we eat, after taking the Max and bringing in the groceries. And we can’t decide if Lemon or Peppermint is our favorite. Or Lavender. Or the one that helps with your fear of flying. Oh, the choices!

www.herbanessentials.com

Mobile Peace Prize

We’ve always been fans of Frazier & Wing’s paper mobiles, each of which brings a bold splash of color to any room. But as much as we loved the recycled magazine and white-paper versions, we still were left wanting something truly unique!

Enter the “one-of-a-kind” section, stocked with pieces that include everything from wood to beads and found objects. Check out the all-white room divider, though everything in this special collection makes us swoon!

www.frazierandwing.com

Roastess with the Mostest

There’s one sure sign of a good greeting card: it gets passed around the party so that everyone can read it. Sappy cards rarely get this treatment, but we assure you that the snark-tastic options from Roast Greetings will definitely make the rounds.

Birthday, baby or just because, Roast has you covered with simple art and laugh-inducing messages that are anything but politically correct. Buy four and get free shipping—you’ll find at least that many to love!

www.roastgreetings.com

Portland Fashion Week

You’ve seen three straight weeks of our “Designers of the Week” features, complete with gorgeous photos and brief descriptions of what inspired the designers… so has it whet your whistle? Portland Fashion Week is not only an epicenter of chic-ness—it’s green, as well, so you don’t have to sacrifice values for style. Portland Fashion Week is your chance to support Portland’s local designers and the national talent coming our way—22 designers in all—with hot, hot models strutting their latest creations down the runway!

What: Portland Fashion Week
When: Oct. 8–12
Where: 1330 NW 14th Ave.
Visit: www.portlandfashionweek.net
Tickets: www.portlandfashionweek.net/tickets.php

Think Pink at lucy!

Want to make a difference in someone’s life and score some supercute workout wear? Join lucy as they host a one-day shopping event that will raise funds for the Breast Cancer Network of Strength. lucy activewear will donate a full 10% of the day’s sales. Be there—you’ll feel good in so many ways!

What: lucy benefit for Network of Strength
When: Saturday, Oct. 4
Where: Washington Square, Bridgeport Village,
and 1015 NW Couch
Call: 503.620.8235; 503.968.6421; and 503.226.0220
Visit: www.lucy.com

Fall into Autumn with Sofada

Enjoy a day of specials at Sofada’s trunk show! Receive 10% off any purchase/order of Sofada by Alice Dobson (fall 08 is off the rack, or order spring/summer 09). Her designs are feminine and glamorous. Plus save on unique jewelry by Sahlia Michelle Designs and versatile clothing by Varnish, by Kelcey Blanton. After 5 pm, enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres!

What: Sofada Boutique Trunk Show
When: Friday, Oct. 3, 3–9 pm
Where: 2937 E Burnside
RSVP: 503.445.2006
Visit: www.sofada.com

Be Still Our Shoe-Lovin’ Hearts

It’s difficult to resist the siren call of fall footwear. We find ourselves powerless in the face of wine-colored leather and anything in the “boot” family. It’s often a curse, but this weekend it’s a blessing at Shoefly! Their Fall Fashion Sale brings savings of 15% off one pair, 20% off two, and 25% off three or more!

What: Shoefly Fall Fashion Sale
When: Friday, Oct. 3–Sunday, Oct. 5
Where: Bridgeport Village and 718 NW 11th Ave.
Call: BPV: 503.968.8137; Pearl: 503.973.5555
Visit: www.shoefly.com

Shape Up for Sweater Weather

Get in on a group class at NW Pilates for only $25 per session, or $20 each for a package of 10. Class size is limited to four for the utmost attention. You’ll have plenty of time on the Cadillac, the Reformer and the Chair to increase strength and energy and slim down. Sweat your way to savings! You’ll feel gorgeous!

What: Group classes just $25 at NW Pilates
When: Through Dec. 31, 2008
Where: 1901 NW 26th Ave.
Call: 503.222.9292
Visit: www.nwpilates.com

$99 Portrait Sessions!

Hello, holidays! Moving Pictures Studio is offering $99 portrait sessions at Usher's Tree Farm, or in front of the tree at Pioneer Courthouse Square. It also includes a free 8x10, and 50 holiday cards as low as $60 + shipping. Photos will be ready in 3–4 days; cards are shipped within 10 days of ordering.

What: $99 portrait sessions with Moving Pictures Studio
When: Call now to reserve your session
Call: 503.786.2157
Visit: www.movingpicturesstudio.net

Shmooze, Sip & Save at Anne Bocci

Stop by Anne Bocci Boutique & Gallery in Multnomah Village tonight—this sweet spot is packed with designer clothing! Meet photographer Elisa Lazo de Valdez, and paper mask sculptor Phillip Valdez. Enter to win an opal necklace, to be given away at 8 pm! Mention Portland Picks and take $20 off any Suzabelle Coat and 20% off all jewelry!

What: Party at Anne Bocci Boutique & Gallery
When: Friday, Oct. 3, 5:30–9 pm
Where: 7824 SW Capitol Highway
Call: 503.452.3711
Visit: www.annebocciboutique.com or www.annebocci.blogspot.com

Word Nerd Alert

Write Around Portland’s annual fundraiser, Wordigo, features interactive word and writing games plus music, refreshments (like the Wordigo cocktail mixed by the Oregon Bartenders Guild), and a silent auction of Moleskin Journals that have been decorated by Portland artists. Proceeds benefit new writers of all stripes, including those affected by HIV/AIDS, survivors of domestic violence and more.

What: Wordigo
When: Saturday, Oct. 4, 7:30–10:30 pm
Where: DWR Portland Studio, 1200 NW Everett St.
Admission: $35
Call: 503.796.9224
Visit: www.writearound.org

Put a Smile on His Face!

It’s Hair M’s fifth anniversary, and they’re making it easy to treat your man! Add a spa service to any hair service and save $10. Add two spa services and save $25. Add three spa services and save $40. He’ll love the services, too: hot towel shaves, massages, nail detailing, face treatments and… yes… waxing.

What: Hair M’s fifth anniversary savings
When: Now through October
Where: 818 SW 1st Ave., Portland;
and 3300 SW Hocken Ave., Beaverton
Call: 503.226.6066
Visit: www.hairMgrooming.com