Mode Bay Area Local

Created in 1987 by Chris Wink, Matt Goldman and Phil Stanton, the Blue Man Group has been enjoyed by 17 million viewers. Blue Man Group is unlike anything I have ever witnessed before, and surpassed any expectation I could have had. If you haven’t seen Blue Man Group, this is one thing you have to make …

Last month I got to try out the Can Can Cleanse and I’m excited to share the experience with you! You’ve probably heard a lot about cleanses and you’re wondering what is the Can Can Cleanse… So here we go. What is it?  via cancancleanse.com: CAN CAN Cleanse’s nutritional 3-day program helps you find out what …

Miss Wu, the new contemporary collection by Jason Wu, launched today exclusively in select Nordstrom stores (including Nordstrom San Francisco Centre, Nordstrom Walnut Creek, Nordstrom San Jose and Nordstrom Palo Alto) and nordstrom.com. The 40-piece collection has a relaxed downtown attitude with the spirit of a modern but strong gamine. The debut collection includes dresses, pants, …

As I shop for friends, family and fab clients this Holiday Season I know there is absolutely nothing I NEED. So I’m not going to pretend that any of these things are necessities in my life so before I get attacked (like last year) for wanting “things” I want to point out that I know the difference between WANT and NEED. …

To my wonderful trainers and my those of you who are following my journey to get healthy—this is my open letter to you all. I was always the fat girl. Always. As a kid I had about 2 years that I wasn’t chubby, round, or “cute”. By 6th grade I was named MVP on the …

If you are the kind of person who squirms at the thought of “the opera,” Strauss’ Die Fledermaus may completely alter your perception. With bits of dialogue and a comedic story-line, this is not what the opera cynic might typically expect. Strauss’ most celebrated operetta, Die Fledermaus (“The Bat”) is a story of revenge, betrayal, deceit, and mistaken identity, …

Four-time Tony Award Winner Memphis has made its way back to the Bay Area! Memphis tells the story of Huey Calhoun, a young white DJ who has fallen for the music of rock-and-roll. Along the way, Huey meets Felicia, a beautiful and talented black singer who steals his heart. In an era of segregation, Huey …

On Saturday evening, Opera San Jose opened its 2012-2013 season with Georges Bizet’s The Pearl Fishers. First performed in 1863, when Bizet was only 25 years old, The Pearl Fishers is a story about the troubles of friendship and love. Taking place on the island of Ceylon, two men and old friends, Zurga and Nadir, …

Last week MODE had the opportunity to visit Ted Baker and learn more about the iconic UK brand. We did a little research on the company before visiting and were SO surprised to learn that Ted Baker has never advertised–yes basically it has grown into a phenomenal international powerhouse through word of mouth and out …

Newly opened NM Café at Neiman Marcus in Walnut Creek is redefining what department store dining is all about. Most high-end department store restaurants are often expected to be generic and uniform. However Chef Santana Diaz and his crew are raising the bar by bringing creativity and great ingredients to the table. Located in the …

Santa Clara, CA: Wolford, the Austrian luxury ready-to-wear and hosiery brand announces the opening of its boutique at Westfield Valley Fair in Santa Clara, California.  The store at Valley Fair will open on Monday, July 30th. The boutique will house the entire Wolford collection: Legwear, Bodywear, Lingerie and Swimwear.  The Shape & Control collection offering …

DALLAS/MINNEAPOLIS (July 10, 2012)—Neiman Marcus and Target® Corp. (NYSE: TGT), two visionaries in the retail industry, today announced a revolutionary partnership that will bring together 24 of America’s most talented designers to create a limited-edition holiday collection. Beginning Dec. 1, just in time for the busy holiday shopping season, the collection will be available at all …

The Castro has got a new late night spot with a killer menu for those long nights that you just need some good comfort food. And you can’t beat prices that don’t break the wallet. Jake’s On Market made its debut, replacing the old school joint, 2233. But this change has brought a great new …

On Tuesday evening, Broadway San Jose ended its 2011-2012 with Mary Poppins! It’s rare to meet anyone who does not love the magic of Mary Poppins. From the well-known songs to her warmth, very few have not been impacted by her and this tale of wonder and imagination. Opening night was finally here and the …

This May, Westfield Oakridge is going to “Get Up and Go!” WFamily welcomes the warm weather with stories that encourage activity and celebrate the special bond between mothers and their children. They will also have crafts and healthy snacks, and they’re launching activities for kids ages 6-12, so come join the fun! *Family events and …

On December 4, 1956, one man brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley together for the first and only time. His name is Sam Phillips. The place was Sun Records. That night they made rock ‘n’ roll history. Million Dollar Quartet relives this historical moment, giving the audience a chance to …

a Rafflecopter giveaway DATE/TIME | June 02, 2012 – June 02, 2012 | Saturday, June 2, 2012 • Shows at Noon and 3 p.m. Sat, June 2nd, 12PM Show  $40.00 each | Sat, June 2nd, 3PM Show  $40.00 each Get ready for A Poolside Soiree Summer Fashion Shows, Santana Row’s sizzling annual showcase of the coolest looks for a hot summer. Two high energy runway …

Originally from San Jose California, Purist Boutique opened it’s doors back in 2007.  Since then the store grew into one of Bay Area’s strongest presence for carrying an extraordinary collection of rare and hard to find items.  In almost 5 years, owner Kevin Lee, managed to obtain the brands he long desired and created a …

Mode Bay Area’s staff and friends recently hosted a birthday bash at what we like to think of as Westfield Valley Fair’s best kept secret: Oryza.  Not too long ago on this very site we shared with you the menu and dining experience you might expect should you grace the Oryza resturaunt, which included excellent …

Westfield Valley Fair is running a contest just in time for Mothers Day! If you have an iPhone or Android phone download the free Instagram application and take a photo of what you want to get Mom for Mother’s Day, or if you’re a Mom yourself post a pic of what you want yourself! Make …

I am by no means a stranger to denim. From the different dyes, styles, and unique elements that make up each jean, no two pairs are alike. With a petite frame, I often have to alter my jeans to my height, leaving me spending hundreds on alterations I wish I did not have to. Especially …

We recently visited Stanford Shopping Center with a $50 gift card to see what we thought the must have item was for Spring break! Well there was one problem–we couldn’t just pick one item. So we decided to give you the 101 on what you must have for Spring break when it comes to beauty. …

Hi january, I’ve got my hands full once again here, as if I ever didn’t. Joe’s really stirring up the stuff the past two weeks. Physical stuff, all out tantrums. He’s not able to get through conflicts with his peers without getting physical, and it’s a constant. At least once a day there’s a conflict …

We recently had the chance to check out one of the newest Restaurants to hit the Bay Area–ORYZA Bistro Asiana at Westfield Valley Fair. ORYZA is a contemporary Thai & Pan Asian Restaurante. Oryza Bistro Asiana serves delicious, beautiful, Southeast Asian cuisine in a hip, modern setting perfect for a date, a girls or guys night out, or …

-Flared- This ’70s-inspired style fits close above the knee and flares below to a leg opening of 22″ or more. Style Tip: Complete the look with a short or tucked-in feminine blouse, skinny belt and platform heels. Rachel Zoe Piped Flare Leg Jeans -Straight- This classic style is a long, lean and versatile choice that looks …

Grégoire 2109 Cedar St Berkeley, CA 94709Grégoire www.gregoirerestaurant.com Everyone craves fast food once in while. When we think of fast food we don’t really think of fancy places or top notch ingredients. But who says it can’t be gourmet? A quaint take-out spot in Berkeley says it can be! This past weekend me and my boyfriend took …

A famed courtesan, glamorous, yet fragile. It is 1889 Paris and the celebrated Violetta Valéry has thrown a lavish party where she meets the young admirer Alfredo Germont. He has long loved her, and she is so taken with his sincerity that she abandons her life of luxury and retreats to the country to be …

Next WFamily Event at Westfield Oakridge: Wednesday Feb 15th at 10:00 AM  Join Andy Z for a fun filled morning of singing, dancing, crafts and snacks! Westfield Family features family-friendly activities and events, money-saving promotions and convenient amenities offered exclusively at Westfield Shopping Centers. This is the fourth year of our free membership program that …

I was feeling a little nauti this week. As a nod to my love for all things nautical, I decided to rock the vibe of boats, sea, and the Hamptons on my nails. Its not too hard to do, although you kind of need a steady hand—I’m not gonna lie! But the outcome is so …

1626 Taraval St San Francisco, CA 94116 (415) 682-4578 gcubecafe.com It’s that time of year again when the fog rolls in and we all start craving all things warm and comforting. And it is agreeable that instant ramen bowls get old, very fast. Most of us are definitely looking for a healthier option that is reasonable. That’s …

Profess your love on the big screen at Westfield Valley Fair Roses are red. Violets are blue. Let Westfield Valley Fair Help say “I love you.” Valentine’s Day is just a heartbeat away, so don’t wait for cupid’s arrow to do the trick. This Valentine’s Day confess your love to your “tweet-heart” with a Love …

If you’ve been thinking about changing up your hair color as Winter ends, we have a great blog for you featuring my beautiful Mom. Both of us have had jet black hair for years, and she decided she needed a change but didn’t want to fry her hair with harsh bleaches. Shari at VE Salon- …

There’s a new addition at Four Seasons East Palo Alto. The aptly named, “Intermezzo” now occupies the space between the bar scene and full-on dinning experience at Quattro (the Four Seasons restaurant). Last Friday, MODE had the chance to celebrate the grand opening. Italian for “in between,” Intermezzo serves up a wildly diverse selection of …

This month MODE received a $50 from Stanford Shopping Center to see how we would bring in 2012. Being that we love tech and we love fashion we thought a lap top case was the perfect choice! We already told you that Tangerine Tango was the color of the year and we’re obsessed with everything bright …

314 Church St San Francisco, CA 94114 (415) 431-9411 chilepies.com San Francisco is one of the greatest places in the world for specialty restaurants. We’ve got entire establishments dedicated to only french fries, chicken and waffle sandwiches, and now pies! The trending pie movement isn’t exactly a new thing, but named by many publications one of the …

One of Broadway’s most well-known and influential musicals, West Side Story is a loose modern twist on the classic Romeo and Juliet story. Taking place in the streets of New York City, the story highlights the racial struggle existing between two opposing gangs in the 1950s. Based on a book by Arthur Laurents, West Side …

  Danny Le, Owner of South East Beast is a prominent individual here in San Jose.  The 30 year old entrepreneur may have gain an image as a party goer because you can catch him hanging out on lounges, art shows, live concert venues, etc.  Since I started to be an active photographer in San …

    Tricker’s, a prestige shoe maker hailed it’s highest honor was when the Prince of Wales deem them as his official shoe supplier.  With craftsmanship approved by his royal highness, Tricker’s continues to surprise us with collaborations from Comme Des Garcons MAN, SOPH, Kurt Geiger.  Each pair is hand made and crafted with the finest materials …

In 2011 there was a huge growth in population amongst DSLR users.  A lot of consumers caught the “photography” bug and every single person from their mama started to carry a DSLR around their necks.  With the price of DSLR slowly declining (at the same time increasing with each third world country typhoon), it made …

Mode Bay Area is continuing part 2 of a 5 part interview with local Bay Area fitness guru John Heringer!  I had the chance to sit down with John and get a little background on him, the program, and the weight loss industry in general.  I’m including a video which will actually be part of …

Mode Bay Area has had the pleasure of working with local fitness guru John Heringer of FAST ACTION TRAINING.  What’s more, yours truly is not only a casual bystander of the weight loss bootcamp, but an active participant as well!  I recently had the chance to sit down with John and get a little background …

When it comes to our home decor, we all enjoy to have unique pieces the complement our specific taste. And let’s be honest, we like to have things no one else does, that leaves them asking, “Where did you get that?” No matter which state you live in, Daisy Mae Designs can create custom pieces …

Yesterday I had the privilege of spending some time with the “F21Insider” [Forever 21 Insider] in beautiful Sausalito showing her a few of my favorite places to let my hair down and relax. It really could not have been a more beautiful day! Not a single cloud in the sky and no jacket required–Oh how I love California Winters! …

On Tuesday evening, Broadway San Jose continued its season with CATS, one of Broadway’s longest running musicals. As of May 2011, CATS celebrated its 30th anniversary, make it the longest continuously touring Broadway musical in history. CATS is musical composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, and based on Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T. …

Who can turn down a cozy and fun scarf? I can never have enough. I especially love the loop scarfs, so easy to throw on. The one you see me wearing is handmade by the lovely ladies at INKhandcrafted. I call it a “scoodie.” It’s actually a convertible loop scarf/cowl/hood and comes in four vibrant …

I’ve got tons of Holiday parties this month so when MODE received a $100 from Stanford Shopping Center to find a little black dress I couldn’t wait to hit up one of their newest stores! I headed over to the new Urban Outfitter location to see what Holiday looks I could find and I was …

I’ve been gluten free for a little over 2 years now. It all started when I was telling a friend about reoccurring eczema that I couldn’t get to go away, and a constant feeling of being bloated no matter how little I ate. She told me that bloating was one the main symptoms of a gluten intolerance and advised that I …

I’m addicted to Bare Escentuals new BareMinerals lip collection. The “Pretty Amazing” collection speaks for itself. The set comes with four lipcolors and glosses. The colors are radiant and creamy, each just as glistening as the next. The applicator is very precise, the brush as you’ll notice in the pictures, are flat, quite different than …

Givenchy is known for its high quality, Parisian-inspired jewelry designs, and their Trunk Show will feature EXCLUSIVE Givenchy jewelry designs not available in stores or ANYWHERE else! Come and join Givenchy jewelry specialists to find the perfect touch of sparkle for your holidays, or find that special gift. This is a great opportunity to scoop …

Ramen Doraku 1042 Taraval St San Francisco, CA 94116 (415) 592-8801 The seasons are changing and it’s starting to get chilly! So what sounds better than piping hot ramen on a foggy Bay day for under 10 bucks? I had a serious craving for some comfort food and found my way to a relatively new ramen joint …

It’s the Holidays and that means lots of shopping for us! We’re getting Christmas presents, picking up Fall Fashion items and looking to share more and more gift ideas with you all through out the next few weeks. So when we received $200 from Stanford Shopping Center to check out their stores, deals, steals and fashions we …

On Saturday evening, Opera San Jose continued its season with a powerful double-bill performance of Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci and Poulenc’s La voix humaine. I have wanted to see Pagliacci for years, and ever since Opera San Jose announced their 2011-2012 season, have been counting the days till opening night. Opening night was finally here and the …

On Tuesday evening, fans gathered at Yoshi’s in San Francisco to hear the soulful music of artist Marc Cohn. This was the first time I had attended a concert at this venue, and found Yoshi’s to be one of the best locations for a show that I had visited. Effortless parking, spacious seating, and excellent …

The Taco Shop @ Underdogs 1824 Irving St San Francisco, CA 94122 (415) 566-8700 www.tacoshopsf.com Looking for cheap, huge tacos served with ice cold beers and a side of ESPN? Then I’m sure you’ve heard through the grapevine about The Taco Shop at Underdogs. At what seems to be a typical sports bar, Nick Fasanella whips up his …

I’m excited to introduce you to another new nail trend, Soulstice Nail Colour. Soulstice Spa products are distributed from Saulsalito, Ca and sell their products soulsticespa.com, with a minimum purchase of three. But trust me you will have no problem finding three. Each nail polish is named after various global destinations. Visit Milan (a sophisticated red …

WHAT: This holiday season M·A·C shines with all the glittery and glossy goodness that we all love about this time of year! Enter a winter wonderland of Glitter and Ice: inspired by Olympic skater Johnny Weir a magical world filled with sparkle, shine, and splendor. Frosted shadows in snow globe compacts, glittery glosses, posh powders, …

It is times like these when humans prove themselves triumphant over the forces of nature. I was fortunate enough to conduct an e-mail interview with a family that has put their hearts and souls into keeping a smile on their daughter’s face. In particular, I spoke with Monique, who describes her thirteen-year old daughter Alyssa …

A stones throw from the 101, the best kept secret in bay area food and fashion are the events at The Four Seasons Hotel in East Palo Alto’s own restaurant, Quattro. Starting with the food. The meals feature local ingredients, so fresh that the were picked or foraged while you were still swapping shoes with …

 We are very excited to announce the launch of the new handbag line from Rachel Roy with a fabulous party at Macy’s Valley Fair! Being that we’re huge Rachel Roy fans we can’t wait for this event. A lot of the designs we’ve noticed have sold out on-line so you don’t want to miss this …

It’s that time of the month again and Westfield Oakridge has another awesome event lined up for your family! This week there will be a special musical guest! Peter Apel is coming with his guitar and tons of silly songs to get your kids laughing and having a great time. They also get to enjoy some …

It’s been about 2 weeks since the wrap of Project Pink. What an amazing and enlightening experience. I’m writing this piece from a personal perspective, so that next September when the notices go out that tickets are selling fast, you’ll want to have the chance to share the day with us celebrating, giving, and being …

Looking for a touch of New York in the heart of Silicon Valley? Look no more, Westfield Valley Fair brings you Henri Bendel! Located on the second floor, next door to Victoria’s Secret this is much more that a candle shop. Tastefully saturated in Swarovski, the jewelry is statement and stunning. Don’t be afraid to experiment! …

Morton’s The Steakhouse San Francisco is adding a little bling to the holidays this year with its Holiday libation, the Sparkling Cinnamon Apple cocktail. Full of apple and spice and everything nice, the Sparkling Cinnamon Apple is a delicious complement to any memorable meal!  Available for $14, the festive libation is made with Lunetta Prosecco, Lindemans Pomme …

If the Marines decides to create their own High Fashion Design then you will witness the birth of Acronym. Brand Designer, Errolson Hugh, always ceases to amaze me every season. I wondered what kind of testing do they do before the end result of each item goes into production. Perhaps a rigorous weather test on …

6-week body transformation bootcamp, 7-day meal plan, fitness and food journal, and nutritional coaching ($518.50 value) for only $167!!! Highlights 6 Weeks of Unlimited Bootcamp Sessions Win free bootcamp, skinny jeans, a 1-hour massage or even a cash prize! Motivating Trainers Over 28 available session times per week The Fine Print Must activate by 10/9/11. …

I’ve been a huge Links of London fan since I walked into the Bloomingdales at Stanford Mall and fell for the friendship bracelets. I’ve been adding to the collection a little bit at a time. And recently I’d been eyeing the Love Note Collection. This beautiful collection consists of heart pieces that can be engraved …

Woodhouse Fish Co. 2073 Market Street San Francisco, CA 94114 http://woodhousefish.com/ It’s no secret the Bay Area is home to high-quality seafood and numerous restaurants that serve it. The only thing is that most of the time they can be pretty pricey or not have those simple dishes you crave. However, a little bustling seafood …

If you’ve read my blogs on TOMS and Krochet Kids International, you know I love a great product that also aims to give back in some way. I was walking by the Kids’ Department at Nordstrom a few months back when I discovered Pura Vida Bracelets. I immediately fell in love with the adorable little …

This morning I had the pleasure of attending the Nordstrom Fall trend show ‘Red Carpet Glamour’ at Valley Fair.  I was treated to a beautiful shiny shopping bag at the door with a bottle of Nordies water, pencil, brochure and contest card. I didn’t win this time. Clarins kicked off the show by providing a …

Come join us this Wednesday as Westfield Oakridge officially opens the new play area! Aside from the fun new play area they’ve planned out a few fun filled hours of songs, singing, magic tricks, princesses, snacks, and crafts! Come on down at 3PM to join the fabulous Andy Z., followed by a magic show, ballon …

I don’t know about you, but when something new and exciting arrives in San Jose I can’t help but get a little pumped. I attended the sign lightning last Friday night for the new to downtown San Jose, San Pedro Square Market. It’s a huge location filled with nooks and cranies ranging from 1,000 sq …

It is Friday evening and the workweek is over. What next? See a movie? Meet some friends for dinner? Catch up on laundry? How about something new and out of the ordinary? This is exactly what locals are doing every first Friday of the month at San Jose’s own South FIRST FRIDAYS Art Walk. Unlike …

  The theatre was packed for opening night of Opera San Jose’s Idomeneo, re di Creta, Mozart’s first dramatic masterpiece. Idomeneo, an Italian opera, tells the mythical story of Idomeneo, the king of Crete, and the tragedy that befalls him following his victory at the Trojan War. To save his life from death at the hands of the sea, …

We are excited beyond words to have Project Pink come back this year at Westfield Valley Fair. Last year we had such an amazing time celebrating with survivors, friends, and our community  while sipping on drinks, having something to eat and watching Fall’s most fierce fashion walk the runway! This year we’re back again and …

We have an amazing giveaway for our Bay Area readers! As the official hair sponsors to Project Pink VE Salon wanted to give a little more so we came up with this fun contest for the month of September. Just use the app below and like the pages involved and a winner will be picked …

Tawan’s Thai Food 4403 Geary Blvd San Francisco, CA 94118 Most people would agree that the best restaurants they’ve been to are family-owned. If given the choice, who wouldn’t want a home-cooked feast? In my endless search for awesome Asian cuisine in the city, a craving for Thai food really got me digging. I wanted to find …

We’re going to let the photos do all the talking! We’re SO excited about this event at Westfield Oakridge on Wednesday September 7th! Macy’s Court 3pm-4:30pm Join us for a fun filled afternoon with crafts, snacks and a special appearance from Happy Birds

Last Saturday I attended the Kate Spade Trunk Show Luncheon at the fabulous Four Seasons restaurant, Quattro in Palo Alto. The restaurant was all decked out with bright pink Kate Spade goodie bags and a fancy three course lunch menu made specifically for the event. With 12 looks to view the courses came and went, …

Last night I had a great time at Levi’s new store at the global headquarters! I have to be honest because I didn’t even know this store was here and I loved the location of it. Just a few blocks away from the water, and a little ways from the hustle and bustle of busy …

 Enter our MODE Bay Area Contests! From timeless ready to wear pieces to the meticulous craftsmanship in her couture lines, Caren Templet has captivated her clients with her attention to detail in each piece she creates. She is a British designer who has her flagship store based in Sacramento. Her designs specialize in high end …

Here are our talented winners from the BP Nordstrom Stylist contest! There won a photoshoot from the super talented and amazing photographer Van Broers Photography. She is truly one of the most talented Fashion photographers I know and we were so honored that she did this shoot. We love the styling in this shoot and all …

Hukilau 5 Masonic Ave San Francisco, CA 94118 www.dahukilau.com/sanfrancisco/ Just because I’m two thousand miles away from home doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy local Hawaiian dishes! Lucky for us Hawaiians, San Francisco has quite a few Hawaiian BBQ joints. Local (Hawaiian) flavors have seemed to find their way into the Bay Area, yay! I no longer have …

Do not mistake the CAPSULE Design Festival as a designer craft fair. CAPSULE is a street festival taking place in the heart of the Hayes Valley showcasing the great talent and originality of over a 130 independent designers; in the categories of men’s, women’s, kid’s, accessories, paper goods, glassware, and unique home décor. On trend …

By: Asal Beauty A short tutorial on how I apply and blend eye shadow to achieve a dramatic smokey eye. Perfect for a night out with the girls! I also added some amazing full lashes, and blue contacts for an extra pop. You can find me on Facebook if you have any questions!     …

IN HONOR OF THE CHEZ PANISSE FOUNDATION’S 40th ANNIVERSARY, THE LEVI’S® BRAND AND ALICE WATERS JOIN FORCES IN SUPPORT OF EDIBLE EDUCATION Limited-Edition T-Shirt Collection Designed by Alice Waters, David Byrne, Dave Eggers, Maira Kalman and Sofia Coppola to Support Edible Education The Levi’s® brand has partnered with food activist Alice Waters and friends to celebrate 40-years …

On a recent Groupon discovery, I managed to score a pair of Jeffrey Campbell flats from an adorable & chic little boutique called Pink & Harmony. Now, I could have used the $45 for $100 Groupon on anything in this store—clothing, purses, or accessories. After scoping Pink & Harmony’s web page I found this out-of-control …

Did you know that Westfield Oakride has an event for your family the first and third Wednesday of each month from 3 – 4:30pm! And I’m talking about really fun, exciting events that your kids are going to LOVE! As a parent I can really appreciate that they took to time to put together activities …

Yum Yum Fish 2181 Irving St San Francisco, CA 94122 This past week I’ve stumbled upon a restaurant that has become a monumental part of my life in San Francisco. I’ve found it guys. I have found that sushi restaurant that leaves behind all that fancy stuff and takes good ingredients back to the basics. Yum Yum …

Don’t forget that Wednesday is first Wednesday at Westfield Oakridge and that means great family fun for free! And this week there is a special appearance because the Circus is coming to town! And they’re coming to Westfield Oakridge so it only makes sense that something special from the Circus is in store for the …

A new dessert shop opening? You know I’m there. Frost Cupcake Factory recently held their grand opening in downtown Campbell—and let me tell you their name explains everything. For some cupcake lovers its all about the cake, others its all about the frosting. If you tend to lean towards the frosting side of the spectrum …

Nowadays it seems that everywhere you look, there is the push to go local.  And while the emphasis seems to be on food and produce – here at MODE we say, take it one step further, you guessed it – local fashion. Allow me to introduce to some, and re-introduce to others: Rickshaw Bagworks. Located …

[like url=www.facebook.com/modebayarea action=like] This Saturday, July 23rd will be another great installment of D1ME at The Pagoda.  The last time I was at The Pagoda, the mood was as vibrant and the crowd that gathered there to enjoy a great ending to a busy work week.  It was the perfect opportunity to have a few drinks and …

It’s the MOST wonderful time of the year!! No, not Christmas, but close – the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! For those of you not familiar with this FABULOUS yearly event, this sale is a Fall preview sale. Starting July 15th, brand new merchandise for fall is brought in at a special SALE price (I know how …

Calling all Mom’s, Dad’s, Uncles, Aunts, babysitters and whoever else loves fun things to do with the little guys and girls in your life! On July 6th Westfield Valley Fair is getting a new Play Space and throwing a big party to celebrate!  There will be snacks, activities, favorite under the sea characters and SO …

HD Buttercup is a 35,00 square-foot design emporium, offering a world of possibilities for those who curate their lives with imagination and style.  From June 17 – July 10, the entire store is 20-70% off. What:  HD Buttercup Half-Yearly Sale When: June 17 – July 10 Where: 290 Townsend Street, San Francisco But for all …

Let’s be honest here, who doesn’t love Mamma Mia! ? From the well-known Abba songs, to the spectacular choreography, this famous Broadway musical is a hit with everyone–young and old. I first became familiar with Mamma Mia! when the film was released in 2008, starring Meryl Streep. While I had long known and loved the Abba …

“People rescuing animals…Animals rescuing people.” This is the motto of Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, located in Walnut Creek, CA. ARF was established in 1991 by former Oakland A’s Manager, Tony LaRussa. This amazing 37,700 square-foot facility rescues dogs and cats from kill shelters mainly from California’s Central Valley area where the euthanasia rate for …

PUMA has partnered with legendary culture brand Undefeated to push some boundaries and refresh an icon: the PUMA Clyde. The second drop of the Undefeated Collection with PUMA, the Cali Canvas Clyde, hits stores on June 10th and has you covered on the beach or the pavement — whether you’re cruising, boarding, or chilling. The …

Like a lot of women out there, I have always wanted to get all “dolled up” and have a professional photo shoot. A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to do this. I have admired the work of Asal Makeup Artist for some time. A Bay Area local, Asal has worked with celebrities, done …

You’ve been hearing everyone talk about the opening of Superdry at Westfield Valley Fair and today you can officially go to the store and shop till you drop! I got to go in yesterday and pick up a few things and it won’t be last time I visit Superdry. I really like the new vibe …

Over a year ago I started really looking at my skin and worrying about fine lines on my forehead and black heads. I was turning 30 and I needed to make some changes. I was lucky enough to have my first skin care consultation with Studio Joule where I’ve been going for a year now. …

Name: Dale Rondena Occupation: Nurse Age: 28 Home Base: New Jersey Who is your favorite designer and why? Ralph Lauren, instant classic If you have to choose one accessory that you can live without, what would it be? My sunglasses all year round What’s the best placed you been in California? San Francisco What’s so …

It’s been a while since we had a photography feature. This week we’re featuring Nima Salimi Photography. The pictures speak for themselves and are so beautiful! We’re totally impressed with the beautiful photos and the moments that have been captured. We can’t wait to see more! Make sure you follow him on Facebook, and check …

We are so excited that Superdry is coming to Westfield Valley Fair next week!!! We’ve got a little preview of what you can expect–including information on giveaways, specials, and a few pictures of what you can get when doors open. We’re looking forward to seeing what the store here in Westfield Valley Fair has for …

Having been a stylist for almost 8 years now, I usually know what a client is going to ask me before she does. How? Because the lady sitting in the chair 10 minutes before her asked the same question. Lately, that question is,” What’s all this news about the Brazillian Blow out?!” For those of …

MODEbayarea, recently had the privilege of attending another brilliant performance, courtesy of the San Francisco Ballet.  The 2011 production of John Neumeier’s The Little Mermaid was both beautiful and entertaining from start to finish. This was our first experience seeing The Little Mermaid production (my wife and I) and even though we come from vastly …

The next installment of Rumination is Sonoma, California artist, Lino Vicente. I followed Lino’s work for quite sometime now and his vision continues to evolved with each series that he paints. I had an opportunity to hang out with him this past weekend and I was able to see the newest project/series. He captured a …

San Jose is getting a new designer come this Summer. Ronnie Boggle the designer behind Nigel Who? will be showing his collection in Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose on July 9th. There has been very limited releases from the collection so far. But what is obvious is that the designer loves clean, contemporary lines …

Yesterday I headed into one of my favorite malls to get my Mother’s Day Shopping done, and make a wish list for myself too. I know a lot of people are looking for deals and bargains so I put together a list with options at every price point. I think they’re all things that any …

I am so excited to let you know about the Grand Opening of H&M in Westfield Oakridge Mall! This H&M brings the largest selection of H&M clothes to the South Bay. It consists of H&M, H&M Man, H&M Kids which has a huge area for infants, toddlers, kids, and maternity. Within the women’s collection you …

La Bohème had its opening night at the San Jose Opera House on April 23. Many people came dressed to impress as the sophisticated night at the Opera began. This classic opera written by Giacomo Puccini has been remade and performed all over the world. The San Jose Opera presented this world renown classic in …

Hair extensions have come a long way over the years. They are there for those who want more hair, need a little more hair and can be used for those who have lost their hair due to reasons beyond their control. Last week at VE salon Kimberly Carlon Mathews (one of the amazing talented woman …

The momentum is unstoppable when thousands of strong, inspired women rally for a full day of empowering workouts, beauty bests, fit fashions and gourmet goodies. Join us for SELF’s high-energy, all-in-one event! All events are 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Rain or Shine! Purchase your tickets now! 50% of the ticket price (minus processing costs …

You may know Bella Rosa as a high-end contemporary women’s clothing boutique located in the heart of downtown Los Gatos, but what you may not know is that this beautiful boutique has a following amongst the Bay Area’s trendiest and best dressed fashionistas. “I have the best job in the world and I get to …

We are excited to announce that we are the official media sponsors for the Women’s Day Gala at the prestigious Decathlon Club of Santa Clara. In celebration of Women’s Day, Leyina Chen Productions will be hosting Women’s Day Brunch & Fashion Show – a day to recognize women of the past, present or future who …

Fashion shows and runways are not exclusive to the streets of New York, Paris and Milan. As a matter of fact, here in the Bay Area a Fashion Show took place at a local High School and I had the privilege of covering it. At Monta Vista High School there is a fashion club which …

  UPDATE: In an effort to make sure that the family’s mind is at ease we are asking that gift cards, letters, and possibly small gifts for the children be dropped off. Know that during hard times an encouraging word is sometimes the greatest gift! Please use the OFFICIAL account number provided to donated money …

(Artwork by Dion Bello pictured above) “Rumination” is based on one of my favorite books called “Ruminations” by Emcee and writer KRS-ONE.  It was based on reflection and meditation. It was about sharing a thought process and sharing ideas so that others can use it and let it manifest into their own lives. I been …

One thing was apparent from the show — there’s a huge demand for fashion in the Bay Area. The turnout was incredible as a runway long enough to land a passenger jet was packed with dozens of models and hundreds of fashionistas for a two hour show. Besides supporting a great cause (The Princess Project) …

Thom Scher is the current Producer and Director of Public Relations for Charity Fashion Show. In his fourth year with CFS, he has helped to make the event what it is today. An award-nominated event producer and stylist, Thom is a well known member of the San Francisco fashion community. Thom owns his own fashion …

Carolina Herrera Personal Appearance and Fall Trunk Show at Neiman Marcus San Francisco  For those of you that love the elegant style and designs of Carolina Herrera, this is your chance to not only view her upcoming Fall 2011 Collection, but to meet the fabulous designer herself.  She will be making a personal appearance at …

Last night I had the chance to visit what starting tomorrow will the newest Nordstrom Rack location here in the Bay Area–and I fell in love! The new location is literally brand new, and it’s HUGE! This means lots of great selections and options for us shoppers. Even though it’s a Rack store you’ll be …

This Thursday Donald J Pliner and his beautiful wife Lisa are visiting the Bay Area in Santana Row! Last year we had the opportunity to review one of Donald’s shoes and the feedback was great and from all of you who picked up the shoe you loved it [but then again what's not to love?] …

Maggie Trever is the designer behind well known SF knit swimwear brand Magdalena Trever. Her line combines fun and flirty colors, high quality yarn, richly adorned trims and beading, and a sexy point of view. Maggie is an Academy of Art graduate, and couldn’t be more excited to be showing at CFS 2011. Last year …

Rebecca Hu is a Junior at Aragon High School, and she is about to be a part of Charity Fashion Show for her second straight year. Rebecca joined CFS as part of the Future Faces of Fashion last year, and quickly became known for her extremely fierce walk, stunning poses, and lively energy. Rebecca is …

Shai is one of the most recognizable models in SF fashion. Starting in the modeling industry in 2007, she quickly rose as a force among the underground designer scene. In the last two years, with a number of modeling award nominations and participation in nearly all of the major shows, Shai brings a remarkable commitment, …

Are you wondering what all the fashion rules are going into Spring? Wish there was a fun, free, way to learn about what’s going to be hot and fashionable? Well Neiman Marcus is here to save the day! You are officially invited to: “The Fashion Rules Party!” WHEN: Thursday, March 3rd 6-9PM WHERE: Neiman Marcus- …

“Sometimes it’s more about quality than quantity, and the if the Emerging Showcase was any indication, Sacramento is off to an ambitious start. The event took place in the historic Elks Tower ballroom, and the runway with its twin projection screens, looked grand. The event was well produced, ran smoothly, and I was touched by …

Brooke Smith is the current Director of Creative Production for Charity Fashion Show, in charge of the artistic vision and image for the entire organization. She’s highly experienced in the New York fashion industry, having worked as a Ford Model during NYFW numerous times. Globally recognized, she has been called a “rising fashionista” by Italian …

For awhile, San Jose had an emptiness when it came to finding culture and music hand in hand.   You would either find one element or the other but having both Music and Culture altogehter was hard to find in San Jose’s night life. So many of the local citizens would venture to other places …

Sacramento Fashion Week kicks off today with the following schedule: Feb 24th Launch Kick Off Party Lounge ON20 1050 20th Street, Sacramento CA Feb 25th Emerging Designer Showcase Elks Tower 921 11th Street, Sacramento CA Feb 26th Finale Designer Showcase Elks Tower 921 11th Street, Sacramento CA Feb 27th Fashion Forum SAC State 6000 J …

Calling all Mom, Dads, Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles. Calling all Disney lovers to come out today to Santana Row for a really fun event! Join KQED and Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate! at Santana Row in San Jose– Tuesday, February 22 at 3:30 p.m. in Park Valencia for a storybook reading and a special …

I just finished up at the MAC Wonder Woman event and I had SUCH a fun time. The team there is really amazing and everyone was having such a good time. I put together a quick list of MUST haves, but run out to get them! I told you guys the Mineralize Skinfinish was going …

This March the annual Oakland Museum Women’s Board White Elephant sale returns. What does that mean? Shopping. Tons and tons of guilt free shopping since sales benefit the Oakland Museum’s arts programs and exhibits. The White Elephant is the largest rummage sale in Northern California, filled with amazing finds at great prices. The sale’s inventory …

“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi I believe every girl should feel like a princess at LEAST once in her life. It was that belief that had me send my wedding dress to Africa so an organization could use it for those women who wanted to get …

The Nordstrom BP in Walnut Creek is up and ready for business with many great looks at great price points! The BP Fashion Board put on a fashion show last week featuring the hottest looks available now. When I saw the looks on Facebook I couldn’t help but be impressed at the styling and work …

Photos: Drew Altizer The San Francisco Ballet, America’s oldest and most prolific professional ballet company, opened its 78th repertory season at the historic War Memorial Opera House with the theme, “La Belle Epoque.” Unbelievable gowns and breathtaking fashion have always been a big part of this evening. The 2011 ballet Gala was was no exception. Make …

“I couldn’t be more excited about the move to San Francisco. For the last two years people have always told our team that we should produce the event in SF, not at Stanford. This year we are happy to be taking advantage of new opportunities and to be making exactly that jump.” -Thom Scher For …

Where: Fremont, CA – Pacific Commons Shopping Center (Nordstrom Rack) When: Opening Date: March 24, 2011 A Nordstrom Rack store opening is an event not to be missed! Be among those in the know and find the hottest brands and trends at the best prices. At the grand opening we will hold our ‘Race Through …

I’d be willing to bet that the last few months you’ve been seeing my “Street Style” posts over here on MODE and wondering, “Just who exactly is this Nikita?” Well—here I am! My name is Nikita and I’m a current student working my way towards my dream career in politics. I first began blogging in …

Name: Mei Mei Occupation: Student Age: 17 Is there a any trend that you absolutely love right now? Even though it is in its passing by now, I still love lace accents on just about anything but usually the dresses are what catch my eye. Do you have a celebrity you’d like to style for …

Rashmi’s eclectic, bold style caught my attention. It’s not very often you see someone wearing gold, slouchy pants–and pulling it off. Rashmi paired her unique trousers with a simple, white burnout tee, embellished with a multi-strand pearl necklace. Her glamorous, glimmering, pumps and the fabulous Tory Burch clutch help make this outfit even fiercer–just the …

I love great photography and one of our submissions recently really caught my eye and I wanted to share it with you! You’re especially going to love this if you love anything vintage. Kanoa Utler Photography thank you for sharing your great work with us!

I’m back! Did you miss me? School was terribly hectic and as a result, I took a little winter hibernation–but Street Style is back in full force. Let’s meet Annie. Today was a chilly day and Annie’s beautiful red blouse truly stood out in a sea of the usual dark colors–grey, black, and the somewhat …

We scour the beauty aisles at our favorite discount store, Target, every single chance we get and this holiday season, we have stumbled upon some really amazing brand collections and holiday pieces that will satisfy every budding beauty gal and cosmetics professional.  One of our favorites? Pixi’s adorable holiday gift sets. Founder/creator of Pixi, Petra Strand, …

It’s probably been about 10 years since I had visited ROSS before this great opportunity came our way! The great team over at ROSS sent us a $150 to shop away with and get toys for kids right in time for Christmas! Well I can’t even tell you how many things we got for only …

Westfield Valley Fair is doing it again! They’re giving away a Tory Burch purse! If you remember last time the winner of the Jimmy Choo contest was one of our readers so we know for a fact that their giveaways are legit and pretty much amazing! I’d also like to point out that this is …

There are few things as magical as seeing a live ballet performance. As my wife and I learned earlier this year when we attended San Francisco Ballet“Romeo and Juliet”; that there is something unique and timeless about the ambience that emanates from such beautiful performances. We were anxious and ecstatic about creating all new memories …

I think men are the hardest people to buy gifts for! They either get whatever they want themselves, or are never happy with what you get them anyways. Well for the 11th day of Christmas I’ve put together a list of items that will hopefully help you shop for the man in your life. There …

I couldn’t cook AT ALL when I got married. I literally made food that was inedible. The meal that really made me realize I needed help was when I put shrimp and zucchini on the same dry skewer, with no spices or sauces, on a broken Bar-B-Q and attempted to cook. It was charred, raw …

Recently Bay Area Fashionistas and friends were given the privilege of attending an exclusive Azadeh Couture fashion show — benefiting the Girls town of Italy.  500 onlookers watched with baited breath as Current, Fall, Holiday, Spring and Cruise Collection pieces made their way down the runway.  In all, 65 pieces were showcased on the beautiful …

Last month one of our lucky readers won a complete new outfit from a fabulous store in Downtown Campbell! Simply Smashing was our smashing sponsor and I’m really excited to tell you a little about them. In my opinion this adorable store is a little misunderstood! So it was such a pleasure to work with …

My wife and I recently celebrated our 2nd anniversary, and wishing to go somewhere new and special, we took the advice of some friends and booked reservations at McCormick & Kuleto’s Restaurant in San Francisco, CA.  Located in the heart of Ghirradelli Square, with beautiful views of the bay and harbor, we soon came to …

My wife and I recently celebrated our 2nd anniversary, and wishing to go somewhere new and special, we took the advice of some friends and booked reservations at McCormick & Kuleto’s Restaurant in San Francisco, CA.  Located in the heart of Ghirradelli Square, with beautiful views of the bay and harbor, we soon came to …

Two guys walk into a salon. Stop me if you’ve heard this before.  I doubt that you have, since these two guys were there for their 2 O’clock with Amanda for Brazilian Blowouts. No Joke. With more and more guys growing their hair out longer nowadays – maintenance can certainly begin to be a major …

This is going to be almost at great as taking the kids to Disney Land! Can you imagine how amazing having Breakfast with Santa is for kids during the Holiday  Season? I hope you’ll join us as we grab Starbucks, and watch our kids have a memorable morning with Santa, his helpers, music, stories and …

Today, as I was doing my style scouting I happened to notice that every fashionable girl out there is rocking the motorcycle jacket… I’ll bet you’re asking yourself right now, “So what makes Megan so special?” Check out her gorgeous rings, the key necklace, and her Missoni scarf! Plus, Megan is doing something I’ve taken …

I recently had a fabulous time at the Wine and Dine event at Santana Row! Make sure to check out our photos from the event, and also make sure to check out the great deals, offers, and events Santana Row has happening throughout the holiday season!

Having recently acquired a pair of Hunter rainboots, I can’t help but notice other people rocking them! I loved Alexandra’s textured cardigan and her delicate accessories, and her outfit was just warm enough for a chilly day. (Plus, check her super cute socks…Yes, I did just say cute socks.) Name: Alexandra D. Occupation: Student Age: …

I love great denim and I especially love “Rock & Republic”, and all of the great sexy, fashionable items they offer. Their final stop in an exclusive 4-city tour is in beautiful San Francisco! This premier 10-Day Denim Shopping Event will kick off on “Black Friday” (Nov. 26), and will give you the opportunity to preview …

Join me and celebrity make-up artist Asal for a morning filled with fashion, beauty advice, coffee and delicious snacks! This event is available to a very limited number of attendees. We will be going over great holiday fashion, make-up tips, and gift ideas. You will also have the chance to win fabulous prizes! Following the event, …

This past weekend, on a chilly Autumn night in Saratoga, Marc Cohn captivated the sold-out audience with his smoothing voice and impassioned lyrics. The location, the Montalvo Arts Center, made the perfect backdrop for this event. The set-list ranged from Cohn’s more well-known songs, to newer tracks from his Listening Booth: 1970 album. Taking an …

Scout model & talent management is having an open casting Monday–November 29th at 6:30PM in Los Gatos, CA. What sets this casting apart than most castings is that Scout is also looking for plus sized models! So ladies 5’8 and taller and gentlemen 5’11-6’3 make sure you don’t miss this great opportunity to work in a field …

When I showed up the tree lighting ceremony last night with my family I had a vision of what I would see in my mind. I expected to see the tree, people, and Santa. What I wasn’t expecting were thoughtful details all throughout Santana Row. Small efforts like the streets being closed so my kids …

Time: December 11th at 5PM Where: BRIM- An exciting new hat heaven in Palo Alto (In Town and Country) Who: Anyone that loves fun, models, music, and fashion! Come out and celebrate this great event and check out the latest from BRIM!

We were feeling a bit, adventuresome and devil-may-take-the-calories-if-he-cares-to and it was worth it! We audaciously ordered oysters on the half shell with a tarragon mignonette and horseradish. They were light as air; cool and full of a sweet flavor that is can only be described as romantic. I truly understand why they are an aphrodisiac …

Amid the multitude of people eager to have their fashion questions answered and the mob of men and women raising their hands just hoping  to be given a “360 critique” by the style guru himself, TLC’s What Not to Wear star host and “Freakin’ Fabulous” author, Clinton Kelly, delightfully distributed a wealth of style knowledge …

Sometimes, the best things in life are also the simplest. Madison pairs a simple trench with riding boots; perfect for a grey day. What I love about Madison’s coat is that the color is a bit unconventional– I’ve seen many a black trench and far too many khaki trench coats to count, but I’ve never …

I have to admit one of my favorite parts of doing what I do is getting to know all of you. I’ve been touched by so many amazing emails, messages, and inspirational words when I get to meet you. I love that with in the past year we’ve become a community that loves to shop, …

Designer Prabal Gurung had an apperance at Neiman Marcus in Palo Alto this week showcasing his Spring Summer 2011 collection. I had the oppurtunity to sit down with Gurung to discuss his collection, clients, and see him in action with those that came to see his clothes, but ended up falling for Gurung too. Prabal …

The Common recently opened in SoMa with a new retail boutique showcasing American-made, indie designers such as Rachel Nasvik, Brian Lichtenberg for Blood Is The New Black, Taylor Stitch, Luv AJ,  Dame Jewelry and so many more. Unique, finely crafted, clothes, accessories, and artwork are now available under one roof for city-goers to ogle, buy, and take …

This contest is now up an running! The picture that gets the most likes will win a new outfit and personal consultation from me. The winner will not be announced on the Facebook so make sure to check out the blog in two weeks to see if you’re the winner! (Contest ends: 11-16-10 at Midnight). …

We’re all looking forward to the holiday season this year so why not start off with Nordstrom’s Holiday Trend Show at Westfield Shoppingtown Valley Fair? Bare Escentuals cordially invites you their version of this year’s holiday trends and looks on Saturday, November 20, 2010.  the perfect time to learn all the new holiday beauty trends …

Hey Ladies! Sorry I missed you guys last week. This week, I met Nicole. Check out the motorcycle-pants stitching details on her jeans–a great way to wear something trendy without looking like a trendoid! (Leather is just a tad obnoxious unless you’re actually a biker…)  Nicole keeps her outfit firmly feminine with the addition of …

I have to admit one of my favorite parts of doing what I do is getting to know all of you. I’ve been touched by so many amazing emails, messages, and inspirational words when I get to meet you. I love that with in the past year we’ve become a community that loves to shop, …

We’re back with one of my favorite blogs! Kisstique has sent us their Fall/Winter 2010 favorites and I’m LOVING it! I feel like we really miss our on a lot of great things that small boutiques and local stores carry and I’m so glad to bring this to you. Make sure you call them to …

Ravon by Von Vonni & Von Vonni Brand designer will be here in San Francisco for only two days.  This cutting edge designer from New York has a huge fan base in San Francisco and is worn by the bay areas biggest names. Event Details: CALA San Francisco St Francis Hotel Nov 1st & 2nd …

If you weren’t distracted by the weird beards everyone is sporting during this year’s World Series, maybe you noticed the bulky necklaces worn by some members of the Texas Rangers and San Francisco Giants. For superstitious baseball players it is another way to wear titanium, magnets and other materials that athletes think will enhance their …

Recently everyone has been asking me about the shine in my hair, and how rich and black the color is. Well I owe this all to the amazing new hair color system Amanda (the most amazig hair stylist) introduced me to! The INOA hair color system is a revolutionary new ammonia-free permanent hair color, brought …

WHAT: Natura Bisse and Reviv Med Spa Event WHERE: Neiman Marcus – Palo Alto WHEN: 10/29/2010 – 2PM & 6PM DETAILS: – Reviv Med Spa will have their Sciton laser on-site to demonstrate it’s capabilities on the skin. – Sips and bites will be served. GIVEAWAY AND DISCOUNTS: – All attendees will receive a 20% …

WHAT: Snow Day Package WHEN: 11/11/2010 – 01/18/2011 DETAILS: Snow rarely flurries in San Francisco, but this year one of Union Square’s most stylish boutique hotels will offer a holiday “Snow Day” package to give locals and visitors a chance to cozy up in the heart of the city. From Nov. 11 through Jan. 18, …

Today is the big day for one of the largest Styling events in Northern California brought to you by Westfield San Francisco Centre!  It couldn’t have taken place at a better time. With the start of the fall season and the rain this weekend all of us fashion lovers are looking for a way to …

Hands down, my favorite thing about Patty’s outfit is the way she’s taken a wrap sweater and changed the silhouette completely. (A close second are her boots–I’m just a little obsessed with boots, I own the whole spectrum, from booties to over the knee…) Her outfit is warm, fashionable, and comfortable–perfect, right? Oh and did …

When I headed off to the Kate Somerville event at Neiman Marcus in Palo Alto, I expected to  hear about great products and learn about new skin care treatments. But what I didn’t expect was to be blown away by real stories of healing, and joy. I saw many women approach Kate to discuss their …

Neiman Marcus Stanford Center Invites you to join us for a Fashion Presentation and lunch bites to meet: Roopal Patel Neiman Marcus Senior Women’s Accessories Editor as she presents the Fall 2010 Fashion Trends! Wednesday, October 20 at 11 am Designer Handbags Level One First five Fashionistas to RSVP on the Evite will win a $100 …

What- An amazing must attend Fashion event in San Francisco like no other! Westfield San Francisco Centre Style Tour When- Right around the corner, just in time for you to get your Fall wardrobe together! October 23–24 Sat 10am–7pm Sun 11am–6pm Who- One of the sweetest and most brilliant designers located in San Francisco, and …

Via: www.hellobeautyblog.com Kate Somerville – renowned skin care guru, esthetician to the stars, creator of the celebrated Kate Somerville Skin Health Experts medi-skin clinic and her namesake line of skin care products – is coming to the Bay Area. Her clients love the smooth, glowing skin they get from visits to her clinic in Los …

When faced with the question of what makes an item “work” in fashion, my list is short. First — aesthetics.  Any item that wants to continue it’s assessment, starts here.  There has to be something that catches your eye, piques the curiosity, and garners your attention. Once that is checked off of the list, next …

Hi everyone we have lots of amazing new contests and many more to come! I wanted to fill you in on all the details and and let you know how you can win one of many great prizes! 1- Screen Shot Contest!!! Prize: $250 American Express Gift Card Ends: 11/15/2010 Suggest us to your Facebook …

Caroline’s vintagey style caught my eye.  I don’t think we have showcased this aesthetic here before; from Mad Men to Louis Vuitton FW’10, I think it’s safe to say that the vintage look is here in full-force. The beautiful print, the lace, and the corset detail on her dress are beautiful; Caroline is also wearing …

For everyone that got to come to Project Pink and those who missed it I want to tell you about a lot of great shopping options and ways to support breast cancer research this month! We always hear about the great things out there, but I usually shop a lot better with a list! I …

One of the favorite parts of my job is getting the chance to meet and connect with bay area talent.  Whether it be music, art, or fashion, the bay area is full of creative, and passionate individuals; honing their craft under our very noses.  So when P.A.C.E (People Are Created Equal) clothing graced the wall …

With Celebrity Guest Model Gretchen Rossi, from Bravo’s TV’s “Real Housewives of Orange County“ Be it wine, food or fashion; it takes a commitment to the craft to become a premiere and celebrated designer. This evening brings together some of the very best designers of wine, food and fashion.  Wines from the acclaimed Castello Di …

When I first heard about the Project Pink fashion show put on by The Bay Area Fashion Stylist I was super excited.  I’ve been wanting to meet the beautiful Hasti, for quite some time now, but my schedule is insane making it impossible thus far.  With plenty of notice, and a hell of an excuse (it …

A Fabulous Night of Fashion & MusiQ for the American Red Cross PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS TODAY You are Cordially Invited to SLIDE into FASHION & MUSIQ this Columbus Day weekend on SUNDAY, October 10th, 2010 as San Francisco’s very own DJ/Promoter Chris Hope + VIP Socialite Fashion Producer/Stylist Shae Lynn collaborate for the very first …

I met the fabulous Carla on my second scouting trip, the same day I’d met Lindsay. Carla’s flowing floral skirt truly caught my attention–not just because of the beautiful print, but because it was an effortless execution of the (now) very en vogue long skirt. I’m not sure who else is as enraptured by runway …

“Editors Note: We are featuring stories this week from readers that attended the Project Pink Runway show on October 1st – and their perspective! Today we present- TBAF Reader “Vanessa Grannis” This past Friday marked the beginning of October and all things PINK for an entire month! Pink in October has come to symbolize the …

Westfield Valley Fair will bring a high-energy fashion production to shoppers in the Bay Area with the ‘Project Pink Runway Show’, presented in partnership with The Bay Area Fashionista. ‘Real Housewife of Orange County’ Gretchen Rossi will model in the event and actor Slade Smiley will co-host the event. Scheduled to be held on Friday …

I met Lindsay on my second scouting trip, and she was pulling off one of the hardest trends to work this season–the green, army fatigue-type cropped pants. I think that her delicate sandals, the subtly detailed white tank, and the fabulous belt are what really keep the outfit feminine. (She also had really gorgeous earrings …

In San Jose, you’ve liked MoGo on Facebook , you’ve followed Treatbot on Twitter, you might have even watched the new Food Truck Road Race on the Food Network Channel. Food trucks are all the rage right now. Now imagine if the latest art and fashions were served up food truck style? Local urban boutique, …

Please tune in for a very special season premiere of Red Carpet Bay Area this Sunday, September 26, 2010, at 6:30pm on KRON4. Red Carpet Bay Area always shows you the Bay Area at its best, and this week, you’ll see the Bay Area at its finest.  It happens every year, as summer winds down, …

Westfield Valley Fair and The Bay Area Fashionista are partnering to spread awareness and raise donations to help put an end to breast cancer through Project Pink. Tickets will be sold for this pink-inspired fashion show, along with an auction, in an effort to raise money for this great cause. Join us for a runway …

Mark your calendars ladies and gentlemen!  Mr. Fabulous himself, Manolo Blahnik will be making another personal appearance at San Francisco’s Nieman Marcus to showcase his Fall 2010 line.  The event will take place on Friday, October 8th from 2pm – 4pm.  Make sure to click on the link below to RSVP for the event. I …

Blowfish Sushi has completely and utterly ruined me for other, lesser sushi places. Our waitress suggested we start off with the garlic soy edamame and I wondered, Ok? Edamame, really? And then I took a bite and my life changed course, flashed before my eyes and will never be the same! How many more cliché’s …

Feature Photo credit: Imagetel Photography This past weekend, Santana Row held their 2010 Fall Fashion Show. Special guests included Jay Nicolas Sario, Project Runway Season 7 runner-up, and designer Donald J. Pliner. The fashion show took place right in the middle of Santana Row. Many stopped on the sides to watch, as residents peered from …

For any of you that plan on getting hitched in the future, Iridescence Bridal Couture is a fabulous line that is not to be missed!   Started by Judy Lee who has always been fascinated by the beauty of couture dresses, she created her own line with the dream of bringing high quality, custom-made-to-measure dresses to …

When I received the email that Azadeh Couture had been nominated for one of the Top 5 gowns at the San Francisco Opera, I wasn’t surprised. I was excited to see which of her fabulous designs had been nominated. I quickly clicked on the link and saw a stunning blue and white dress with the …

For the third installment of our Street Style posts, meet Katie. Katie is wearing a summery version of a popular winter staple, the romantic blouse. The lighter fabric and lighter color make her top easy to wear with a light cardigan in the summer, and a great transition piece come the fall, with booties and …

Friday, September 10 5pm – 8:30pm – VIP Event in partnership with ArtPoint Under the Dome from 5pm – 6:30pm. Tickets are $10. Wine and appetizers. Enter to win a $500 Westfield Shopping Spree. – In-store events, promotions and deals at: Bloomingdale’s Nordstrom Bare Escentuals BOSS Hugo Boss Brighton Collectibles Charles Chocolates Edition by Banana …

Everyone has been asking me where I’ll be Fashion Night Out and I’m so excited to tell you all about it! I’ll be in Neiman’s Palo Alto styling a Runway Fashion Show. Preparing for this event has been a blast! I mean who doesn’t love to pull from Chanel, Dolce and Gabbana, Donna Karan and …

It’s almost time for the Santana Row’s Fall Fashion Show in the Park! We got a sneak peek into the show that will be featuring Fall Fashion trends and special guests Jay Nicolas Sario from Project Runway, and the amazing designer Donald J. Pliner. As you may have noticed the fashion show falls on Fashion’s Night …

As many of you have seen in earlier blogs, I have written about my journey to have the teeth I have always dreamed of. With the help of the team Dr. Sawyer’s team in Los Gatos, my dream is finally coming true, and I will soon be proud to smile in my photos. During this …

What’s almost as exciting as Fall Fashion Week? In San Jose, it’s hockey season! Yes, our beloved Sharks are almost back, the games are about to begin, and most importantly—what are you going to wear to The Tank? There are now more options than your boyfriend’s over-sized, pajama-looking jersey. Several years ago the NHL, realizing …

Who knew there was a good burger place in San Jose where you can get grass fed free range beef at a trendy upscale joint? Apparently everyone else in San Jose, because The Counter is always packed! The format is simple. You pick your burger type, toppings and bun and hand in your order. You …

About two weeks ago, I headed over into Bloomingdales in Palo Alto only to be drawn to their newest boutique right in the middle of the store. With bright lights, an amazing display, and colored gnomes, it’s sure to draw anyone in! Just be warned, because once you head over to the counter, you might …

Long, beautiful, luxurious hair is something each one of us desires as women, but something few can achieve naturally. We’re envious of the gorgeous locks of the singers and actresses we see on the covers of magazines and on the big screen. Truth is, most often, their hair isn’t real. Thankfully though, their hair is …

A few weeks ago, I saw pictures of beautiful girls in these adorable little dresses and it really caught my eye. Curious, I wanted to know what these photos were from. I was surprised to learn that right here in the Bay Area, there is a great group of women who are taking something as …

You don’t have to go far to find high-end beauty products any longer!  In November 2008, CVS/pharmacy launched the first Beauty 360 store in Washington D.C.  Since then, they have gradually expanded their locations across the U.S.  Beauty 360 stores are adjacent to select CVS/pharmacy locations and offer convenient access to a wide variety of …

This past week, I had the pleasure of attending the Lancôme “Hollywood Glam” makeup workshop. These last few months, the Lancôme team at Westfield Valley Fair has been working to make makeup lessons and secrets accessible to everyone. With private lessons tailored to find what works for you, these classes may be just the thing …

I’ve always wished that my favorite local shopping spots had the same accessibility as big chains. I love making a list of things I want to get on-line and then heading out and picking them up! I’m really excited about our new feature, “Window Shopping!” Take note that there is a limited number of each …

Recently one of my clients decided to visit one of the stores I had recommend for her to shop at and I got the most wonderful review of the store! I wasn’t going to announce it until a later time, but we’re going to start sending secret shoppers into local stores in the bay area, …

In a bit of Local Sports/Fashion news, the Golden State Warriors have announced their new Logo & Uniforms for the upcoming season. A far departure from the thunderbolt wielding faceless greek basketball god (?) – the new uniforms/logo pay homage to our very own golden gate bridge, while drawing inspiration from the throwback “the city” …

Father’s Day is right around the corner, and if you’re like most of the people in my life you’re still looking for the perfect gift. I took a little shopping with my Dad and checked out Westfield Valley Fair to see what we could find. We had a great time, picked up some fantastic deals, …

Cosplay: (コスプレ kosupure), short for “costume play”, is a type of performance art in which participants don costumes and accessories to represent a specific character or idea. Nowhere was this more on display than right here in the Bay Area just a few short weeks ago. San Jose, CA played host to FANIME CON on …

The Oscar de la Renta Fall/Winter 2010 collection was vibrant, alive, and full of character! While neutral, mono colored styles dominated most runways this season, Oscar de la Renta took every color known to man and created a collection that exuded both life and character with each and every step. It wasn’t just the color …

I always have a special view into fashion shows. Even though I’m there as press, I’m always a fashion lover and consumer first. My eyes anticipate the next must have item for my wardrobe, or something that knocks me out of my Jimmy Choo’s. I love letting my readers know about what I love, and …

A few weeks ago I got to meet Leslie Blodgett, CEO of Bare Escentuals. I was really worried they were going to ask me what my favorite Bare Minerals product was, or if I was a fan. The thing is that I had never used Bare Minerals, and never thought of myself as a “minerals” …

I had been planning a visit to Aritzia for sometime, so when Friday morning rolled around I was quite excited about finally being able to check out one of my favorite shopping spots. Now I know what you’re already thinking, “Where is Aritzia?”, “Good for you, but I can’t afford anything there.”, “How do you even …

  Please join us  this Saturday for what’s sure to be an amazing Fashion Show! All proceeds from Charity Fashion Show will be donated to Kiva, a micro-finance non-profit organization. Kiva, co-founded by Stanford alumni, aims to alleviate poverty by connecting people through lending. General admission tickets are $35, premier tickets are $65. VIP by …

This past Saturday, Santana Row hosted its 2nd annual Summer Fashion show. The event was filled with the hottest summer trends, great food, after parties, and plenty of shopping! Twenty stores from Santana Row came together under the direction of master fashion show consultant, and producer Beverly Zeiss. The scenery was almost tropical, with flowing …

I had a great Sunday afternoon planned out for my annual pre-Mother’s Day celebration with my Mom! Since my Mom and I both like to have a relaxing Mother’s Day, we decided to take a little shopping trip together at one of our favorite shopping spots the week before the big day. Unfortunately, my Mom …

When I first walked into She She Shoes, I kept thinking, “I’ve been here before.” There was something very familiar about this trendy shoe paradise in Los Gatos. It took a few minutes for me to realize I was standing inside the closet of my dreams. I know She She Shoes is a little bit …

You may have heard that Santana Row is having a fashion show this Saturday, but what you may not have heard is what that really means and why you should go. Beverly Zeiss, Fashion show producer and consultant, was kind enough to take some time to let us know what to expect on the Runway! …

Apron Gift Set for only $24! Stir up some Mother’s Day smiles with this gift set, a pretty apron tucked inside a coordinating fabric-covered recipe box. Available in eight oh-so-yummy colors. 
In stores only April 23 – May 10.

Last Saturday, hundreds of people came out to “Glam Gives Back,” the runway charity event at Westfield Valley Fair, with proceeds going to the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley. Guests came out to support a worthwhile charity, and have some food and fun! I was so excited to see what the stores were going to …

Do you remember your last “Gift with Purchase”? I don’t. Not because I haven’t gotten one recently, but it’s been nothing I wanted, used, or got compliments on. But leave it to Neiman Marcus to undo what you’ve always known and experienced about the “Gift with Purchase.” You know what I’m talking about. Gone are …

Being such a big fan of Project Runway, I was excited and honored to interview none other than Tim Gunn, Co-Host and Mentor of Project Runway and Liz Claiborne Chief Creative Officer. This past weekend, I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Gunn, and discussing the Project Runway finale, as well as the Kate Spade …

From now, through the 27th of Apirl, Donald J. Pliner at Santana Row will be having a fantastic sale, taking 25% off of selected items. This particular store has been a favorite of the blog, and we certainly encourage all local readers to head on out and “checkout” the many items that will be available …

How many times have you watched a fashion show on your television or computer and thought, “I wish I could go to a fashion show one day.” Your day is here! This Saturday, Valley Fair is giving Bay Area shoppers a great opportunity to give back, win gifts, enjoy food, drinks, and chocolates, all while …

Being that we started off here at TBAFblog covering mainly local stores, I still like to feature a local shopping spot every once in a while. I personally think that no matter what price range you shop at, you still deserve quality products, and quality customer service. This philosophy is what drew me to IBISS. …