It’s Wednesday, which means we are a little over half way done with this work week and if you’re like us, then you’re most likely looking for a mid-week break. Well, for this edition of Where Wednesday be ready to brave a very large crowd and head over to Downtown Los Angeles for their monthly Art Walk, which happens the second Thursday of every month (that’s tomorrow night!).

The majority of the galleries are free and usually serve wine, while the streets are packed with people, performers, and food trucks galore! Want to keep the partygoing after perusing the streets? Visit some of the bars in the area including my favorites: The Varnish, Golden Gopher, The Falls, Broadway Bar or the divey, yet hip dance-spot, La Cita.

For more information, head to Art Walk’s official website where you can even create your own ArtWalk map, rad!

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Have no plans this weekendOr just looking for one-of-a-kind items (a perfect place to score a sweet gift for your mom this weekend)? Our Where Wednesday column is here to help!  then head over to the 3rd annual UNIQUE LA Spring Show which is set for May 7 & 8 from 11am to 6pm at the California Market Center’s Penthouse. Tickets are only $10 dollars at the door (kids get in free), while 10% of the proceeds will be donated to Architect for Humanity toward their Japan rebuilding and relief fund.

Never heard of the Unique LA? According to their site, it’s the largest independent design show in the country where attendees get the rare chance to meet and shop directly from over 300 hand-selected designers and artists. In addition, the event boasts many exciting extras & amenities, including free workshops, an eco lounge and two cafes.

I went to the Unique OC Show last year and bought some rad one of a kind finds…such as a gorgeous Tiffany Kunz ring and a fun bathing suit, as well as, a very pretty vintage dress! Check it out and happy shopping!

For more information, head to their official site.

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After my horrible experience at the Urban Outfitters sample sale a few weeks ago and my (failed) attempt to give up clothes shopping for 40 days during lent (hey, I made it about half way through). I now have a new appreciation and eye for detail when it comes to clothes. Yes, I still buy a lot of clothing, but before purchasing I always look at quality and fit, as well as the price. If it’s a classic piece, then it’s worth it; if not, I try and distract myself.

Racks are color-coordinated, which I loved (because I already enough black clothing), while vintage shoes, bags and belts fill up the rest of the retail space, plus there’s cool neon and black & white art hanging from the walls. Painted Bird carries a large amount of floral pieces, as well as denim, knit sweaters and tons of  brightly colored silk tops (perfect for this season’s color-blocking trend). I spotted vintage Gap, Jaeger and Betsey Johnson pieces as I shopped…and the best part? From what I can recall, nothing I looked at was over the $80 range.

The staff was super friendly and similar to other recycled-clothing shops they buy vintage/new goods as long as they are in fine condition. Painted Bird has an array of one-of-a-kind vintage sunglasses and jewelry ranging from $15 – $60. The only downside is the parking…and anyone from LA can agree that parking is key. Given it’s practically a hidden location, you’re better off parking down the street, because getting caught in one of those teeny tiny residental Silverlake streets is no fun (take it from me). However, I could and totally will brave the parking to visit Painted Bird again soon- it’s worth it!

Located in the heart of Los Feliz/Silverlake area, Confederacy opened late in 2008 as the idea of childhood friends actor/DJ Danny Masterson and celebrity stylist Ilaria Urbinati in collaboration with their friend, business mogul Aly Mawji. The 5,000 square foot space includes womens’ and mens’ ready-to-wear departments, accessories, specialty gifts, a perfumery, as well as a gallery space where artwork is constantly displayed.

Unfortunately it was just learned that the store is dropping its womenswear collection and going guys-only. And although this is bad news for the ladies, it is currently good news because the majority of womenswear is on major sale (we’re talking 60% and such) until the end of this month. And that’s not all but the main section of the store is set to host an ongoing Rebecca Minkoff pop-up shop with her bags, clothes and shoes. You can get your shop on and browse duds from Alexander Wang, Phillip Lim, Current/Elliot, Rag & Bone and more.

So as our weekly Where Wednesday feature, we highly suggest you check it out!

Confederacy
4661 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles
(323) 913-3040

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If you are ever in the Hollywood area looking to save money, then I highly advise you to stay away from the awesomeness that is Space 15 Twenty. Not only do they have an wide array of clothing stores (see Urban Outfitters, What Goes Around Comes Around and Free People), but they also have a hip art/bookstore to browse. Feeling hungry or in need of a beer after shopping (hey, what can I say?…crafting the perfect outfit can get exhausting), then head on over to the delicious Umami Burger. On top of that, the cool retail space continually has pop-up shops and art installations, as well as weekly events. According to their official site, “Space 15 Twenty is a unique retail setting, which creates an opportunity for us to collaborate with creative brands we find inspiring and interesting. Each store is connected by an outdoor courtyard…all of which encourage participation in the curated environment. Aligning with local music, film and art venues, the courtyard, gallery and pop-up present a rotating cast of musicians, artists and designers.” Hello, can you say rad?

Looking to get your Hollywood hipster/boho chic fix? Then look no further than Space 15 Twenty… Given that the MyFDB office is within walking distance, we can say that we’ve definitely made multiple stops at this place for a “lunch break” and then suddenly have come back with a new pair of shoes…Oops? (Or  just awesome.)

Also be sure to peep their website for a list of upcoming events including Urban Outfitter’s Sample Sale this Friday!

Space 15 Twenty
1520 N. Cahenga Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028

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Although, today’s “Where Wednesday” feature officially begins tomorrow, it’s so cool that I figured I would tell you ahead of time (insuring that you go).

Tomorrow at 5pm marks Yamashiro Restaurant’s 2nd annual Farmers’ Market. Never heard of Yamashiro (and dare I ask…do you live under a rock)? According to their official site: “Yamashiro means “Mountain Palace” in Japanese. It was the dream of the Bernheimer brothers in 1911 to build a hilltop mansion 250 feet above Hollywood Boulevard to house their priceless collection of Asian treasures. Hundreds of skilled craftsmen were brought from the Orient to recreate an exact replica of a palace located in the “Yamashiro” mountains near Kyoto, Japan. This dream became a reality in 1914.” Since then the restaurant has been witness to the birth of the film industry, Hollywood glamour and the times of war with Japan. What started out as a breath-taking estate is now open to the public as a Cal-Asian restaurant and public garden.

Now back to the event! The Farmers Market begins tomorrow and runs every Thursday until the end of summer. Goers can take advantage of free parking and a shuttle (which is a definite plus if you know how hectic parking can be anywhere in Los Angeles). The lot is located at 7101 Hollywood Blvd. (at Fifth Christian Science Chuch at the Corner of La Brea/ Hollywood…best to enter off of La Brea).

One you arrive at the Market you will be greeted by several vendors selling goods such as organic produce, cheeses, gelatto and an array of breads. A live band, wine tasting and a Singha beer booth are just a few other cool stands to take advantage of. However, my favorite and most delicious stand is the “Yamashiro Tacos” managed by the restaurant’s lead chef Brock Kleweno…You can choose from the deliciouness of black cod, duck, short rib and a new (still a secret) option with the most amazing wasabi guacamole you will ever taste. Promise. A word to the wise, get there early for these because there is always a line (still worth the wait of course).

Although Yamashiro has a reputation for it’s history, the restaurant and its super friendly staff and management are anything but grandfatherly. In fact the Farmers Market welcomes everyone from families and elders to a young hip (and stylish) crowd. What I love most about the Market is it’s versatility as an event; it’s perfect for a night when you want to catch up with friends over a beer and tacos or want to cozy up and hold hands while romantically admiring the AMAZING view from their Pagoda bar. I’ve done both, and trust me, neither have yet to disappoint.

So if you can’t make it tomorrow, fear not. There’s always next Thursday and the Thursday after that…I’ll definitely be there!

Yamashiro
1999 N. Sycamore Avenue
Hollywood, CA 90068
(323) 466-5125
Twitter: @YamashiroLA

[images via: Stephen Loh for Yamashiro]

With orange being the surprise color of the season and a certain orange-haired designer opening a new flagship shop off Melrose, this week’s Where Wednesday is all about Vivienne Westwood. Los Angeles (not New York), is lucky enough to be the first US store for the british brand. The sprawling 10,000 square foot destination feels more like an abode, than an actual shop. The building is a multipurpose home for Westwood. It serves as the brand’s US headquarters, includes a wholesale showroom, rooftop patio and of course retail space on the ground floor.

The decor of the Vivienne Westwood flagship perfectly reflects the designer’s punk rock meets high fashion aesthetic. Her style is also fitting for all the celebs and musicians who call LA home. Personally, I love her recycled plastic line of footwear she collaborated on for Melissa shoes, which are available for purchase in the shop.

The brand’s creative director, Andreas Kronthaler said of the new store, “We are thrilled to finally open our new shop in Los Angeles.  We have fond memories of our time there and especially love the influence of Old Hollywood.  Vivienne’s designs speak to this timeless sentiment.”

Visit the flagship for yourself to fulfill all your wild rock and roll fashion dreams! But like all designer fashions, some of the goods are little pricey ranging from $200 and going into the thousands. Happy shopping…er, browsing!

If you know me, then you know I would much rather rock elf boots and an all black ensemble over any type of girly outfit. However, if there is one place that makes me want to throw on my favorite lace dress or a tights with my favorite black flats a la Audrey Hepburn, it would definitely have to be the cute, humble and romantic Le Pink & Co. Apothecary. It’s one of those adorable places with one-of-a-kind fragrances and beauty products that once you discover, you don’t want to share with anyone…But you know what? It’s Wednesday, the sun is out and I am up for letting you in on this cute hidden beauty gem located right in the Sunset Junction area of Silverlake.

Upon entering, Le Pink looks as sweet as it smells, channeling a very feminine and vintage feel with goods from all over the world. I found delicious French fragrances, Swedish soaps, Italian products and even an endless display of nail polishes in every color of the rainbow, as well as, a display full of candles ranging in scents from sage and sandalwood to succulent vanilla.

I love the decor and playfulness of the space, a pretty chandelier hangs over the register as vintage mirrors cover walls and white cabinets are used to display all kinds of goods! What caught my attention this time around was also all the vintage toys and dolls that hung atop the displays. Want to channel you inner child even more at Le Pink? No worries, you can with a full on gumball machine and back wall that is stocked with vintage candy I once devoured as a child (see: rock candy, blow pops, Razzles and candy necklaces just to name a few.)

Le Pink & Co. Apothecary opened in 2003 in Echo Park and moved to Silverlake in 2006. On top of their products they also offer other beauty services such as facials, peels and waxing plus the staff is super friendly and helpful. Price points are reasonable as you can buy a lipgloss for a little as seven dollars or splurge on a perfume for a hundred bucks. All in all, I love Le Pink…if you are in the area be sure to check it out and for more information head to their official site.

Le Pink & Co. Apothecary
3820 W. Sunset Blvd (at Hyperion)
Los Angeles CA 90026
(323) 661-7465

On top of the extraordinary acting, intense thrilling suspense and stunning vision and direction by Darren Aronofsky, everyone who saw Black Swan was also abuzz with the detail and beauty of the costumes created by California based designers, Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte. When the costumes from the film went on display, team MyFDB excitedly headed to the MOCA at the Pacific Design Center for the “Rodarte: States of Matter” exhibit to see the work first hand. On display are more than 20 pieces from Rodarte’s Spring 2010, Fall 2010, and Fall 2008 runway collections, and original Black Swan ballet costumes. MOCA said of the garments, “fabrics are often subjected to unusual, sometimes alchemical methods of alteration—dyed, stretched, stained, burned, or otherwise manipulated—before being reassembled as sculptural ready-to-wear.”

Upon entering the first room of the exhibit we greeted by almost complete darkness (can you say eerie?), as we made our way through a walkway where the looks for the Black Swan role were on display. The costumes, drenched in Swarovski, crystals swung around and sparkled as spotlights hit them. We made our way upstairs to the second room where costumes were shadowed by kinetic lights styled by fashion designer and runway producer, Alexandre de Betak. The White collection (which was not in the film, but very well could have been) consisted of longer sheer pieces in creams and whites with lots of stretched and draped sheerness with heavy knitting at the shoulders. The White Swan ballerina costumes were beyond stunning to the eye and in true Rodarte fashion, the attention to detail was fascinating. Corsets made of light blue vinyl (that appeared almost leather like) were hand stitched as feathers, crystals and other beading covered the tutus.

Like the first time I saw Nina (Natalie Portman)’s death in the film, I was filled with anxiety and excitement as her blood stained costume hung almost hauntingly. However, what really drew me in were the blood-like stained gowns which were simple draped pieces of fabric pieced with red and white floral fabric underneath with a lining of red sequins. The gowns managed to be delicately harsh and dramatic all at the same time. It was Rodarte’s intricacy and immediate detail which caught my eye, as the zipper to the gown was lined in red, white, and gold crystals! If there ever was a perfect touch to a gown, that would have had to been it!

The costumes like the film were an experience of distinguished beauty. It was interesting that the display itself told the story of Black Swan- but almost 

Rodarte “States of Matter” exhibit
MOCA at The Pacific Design Center
Now – June 5
8687 Melrose Avenue #G102
West Hollywood, CA 90060
[images courtesy of MOCA by Autumn de Wilde]

Our New York counterparts still have a few things us Angelenos don’t (*cough* Uniqlo & TopShop), but if history has taught us anything, it’s that all good things eventually migrate out west. The latest establishment to make the trip is chic NYC hot spot, Fig & Olive. The restaurant has opened a new location in the trendy Melrose Place area right of La Cienega which spans 8,000 square feet and can accommodate around 300 guests.

The focal point of the dinning establishment can be found in the decor and the food- olive oil! According to founder, Laurent Halasz, “At Fig & Olive, I want to highlight our menu’s core ingredient of olive oil, which we use in place of butter in our dishes—ranging from a sweet and delicate olive oil from the French Riviera that pairs well with a Steamed Lemon Sole Papillote, to a green-fruit Provence olive oil that we serve with a Green Apple Sorbet. Our cuisine, along with our elegant décor, will immerse our guests into the essence of the Mediterranean region in which I grew up.”

Each meal at Fig & Olive begins with a taste of three distinct extra virgin olive oils, which are paired with the restaurant’s freshly baked Rosemary Olive Oil Fougasse Bread. The restaurant is known for seafood specialty dishes such as their seared sea scallops and truffle artichoke tapenade with mushroom. You should also save room for dessert where you can indulge in lavender honey madeleines from pastry chef, Andrew LeStourgeon.

The dinning experience is perfect for your taste buds and definitely worth the splurge.