Cupcakes and Cornrows

Love and Riots

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 06:29:00 +0000

Aw love (and hormones) It is a grand thing no?

This pic taken during the Vancouver riots has made my day today- hope it does yours too!

The Dip @ Good God

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Thu, 19 May 2011 04:38:00 +0000

So I've been quiet lately for two main reasons:

1. I've been lazy

2. I haven't been excited enough about Sydney eats to blog about them

Until now! Good God, that cool bar/danceteria in Liverpool st, you know the one that hosts hip hop karaoke and throws fun parties for cool cats and all round funky people? well its just about to open its brand new kitchen The Dip, making the place 100 times more fun to be at!

More fun? Crazy right but its true. The Dip headed by Sydney DJ Levins and Sydney Foodie Bianca is serving up seriously delicious grub with their take on American diner and BBQ treats.

We are talking about pulled pork sandwiches, salsa fries, grilled corn, beans and slaw and a stack more good time food.

And for me as non pork eater, The Dip's kosher hot dogs are just the greatest.

The Dip opens tonight! I'd say get in quick to make a reservation, this place is going to be pretty busy for a while.

The Dip @ Good God
55 Liverpool St

Weds & Thurs 5pm-11pm
Fri & Sat 5pm-Midnight
email: do@thedip.com.au

*pics from thedip.com.au

Funk It Up About Nothin'- Platform Hip Hop Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 02:30:00 +0000

It's hard to get hip hop theatre right, it's either emcees who are trying to act or actors who are trying to rap - sometimes it can be all a bit too uncomfortable to be good.

Funk It Up About Nothin' an urban twist on Shakespeare's Much ado about nothing isn't one of those uncomfortable hip hop shows. Created by Chicago's Q Brothers, this slick urban take on one of the most performed Shakespeare plays is clever, fast and yep-funky.

Tight rhymes, a great set, a good looking cast and a story that doesn't deviate from its original had its opening night audience in a head bopping frenzy.

Kids, grand parents, hip hop heads and 'Bard-o-holics' were all throwing their hands in the air in appreciation. The cast was congratulated for their efforts with a standing ovation, a rare sight in Sydney Theatre audiences.

The show is touring Australia for the first time after a successful run internationally. Playing at CarriageWorks as a part of Platform 4 Hip Hop Festival, Funk it up shouldn't be missed.

If you like your entertainment quick and sharp (the whole show is less than 80 minutes) or if you'd just like to see an old tale mashed up, than Funk it Up about Nothin' is for you.

Funk It Up about Nothin'
March 17-26
CarriageWorks

The Duke Bistro Darlinghurst

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 10:52:00 +0000

I am not a hipster.I've never been one of the cool kids and I've never been one of the uncool kids who are so uncool they're really cool either.

Irony has never been a strong point, I like pop music (I know all the words to Katy Perry's California Girls- on purpose) I can't wear flannel and I can't use four square either- me as a hipster= fail.

So when I started hearing about the Duke Bistro from all my(verified) Hipster sources, I was a little intimidated.

"The chefs are so hot right now" they all said with all the knowing of the "in" crowd.

Hot indeed they are, working the pots and pans at the Duke Bistro is Thomas Lim ex-Tetsuya's and Mitch Orr 2010 Young Chef of the Year and a list of other cool young talented peeps.

Surprisingly for me though the restaurant, which is above the Flinders Hotel in Darlinghurst, wasn't bursting at the seams with trendy folk. The clientele was a mish mash of friends, work dinners, family tables, young couples. Not one overt advertising agency bred Hipster in sight. Hoorah.

The menu certainly reflects the talent in the kitchen. Fresh, unaffected and original.

First up we went for the fried chicken wings, coleslaw milk and hot sauce. $10

No more KFC for me, these wings were unreal. Crunchy, light and so moorish.

Next up the beautifully presented Egg, Seasonal Mushroom, Almonds $15

Ooh there is nothing better then a gooey poach egg bursting all over you plate. And this certainly delivers all the running, goey crunchy, mushroomy wickedness I like.

Our waitress stops to apologise and check with us, "Tonight the Tomato Strawberry Burratla Shiso comes with regular mozzarella, is that ok?"

Um yes we think so!

If it wasn't suppose to taste as unreal as it did we weren't going to tell anyone to change it.

The crumbed lamb belly, heirloom carots and caraway was good. But to be honest a little fatty for me. The vegies were delicious but the lamb was a little too much. But I was getting full.

At this point Sim and I were experiencing such food pleasure, we didn't notice that my camera was blinking and had run of battery.

So there is no evidence of how we demolished our desserts unfortunately.

We ordered three as we couldn't decide on two:

Knickerbocker Glory ($12): Oh wow this dessert was sensational, I was worried because I know the tradition British dessert of the same name is ice cream and smashed meringue- not my favourite.

But Duke's version is not as Nana as a bit of Meringue smashed is some ice cream. The Meringue is of the beetroot persuasion, the ice cream is of panacotta. And hiding down below under all that sweet goodness is mange puree. Win

Peaches and Cream ($12): For a girl who usually isn't meringue's biggest fan. I may as well of swam in it at Duke.

The dessert is by far my favourite, poached pears smothered in Italian Meringue with bits of caramel pop corn tasting chunks. Unreal! And I didn't want to share.

and finally Banana White Chocolate, Curry and Coconut ($12). Yes we did order it because it sounded funny. And yep it tasted funny too. Funny interesting, not funny bad. Would I get it again, probably not, but I am glad I got to try a banana with a Keen's curry kick.

Go to Duke Bistro and try it for yourself, your stomach will feel all full, hip and cool.

Duke Bistro
Phone. 02 9332 3180
65 Flinders St. Darlinghurst
Sydney, NSW 2010

Faheem Fast Food: A curry huff

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 10:30:00 +0000

I've almost eaten at Faheem Fast Food twice.

The first time, I ordered take way and when I got home my Aloo Matar (vegetarian curry of peas, potato and tomatoes) had a hair in it and I suddenly wasn't hungry anymore.

After that experience, I wasn't actually going to head back to give Faheem's another shot. But I'd read some really great reviews and the sign out the front says its Sydney's best tandoori and I thought maybe my Aloo Hair was just an unfortunate accident.

It was 9.30pm when we arrived and the Faheem's was pumping full of people, which is always a great sign at a restaurant right?

Considering the sign out the front says, "Sydney's Best Tandoori" The Chief and I settled on trying the Tandoori Chicken.

We also ordered the Okra Lamb ($13.00), Naan ($2.00) and to compensate for last time, I choose to order the Aloo Matar ($11.00)

Once ordered the Tandoori Chicken came out fast and hot! And by hot I mean do mean "can I have some extra yogurt my mouth is on fire hot."

It was good, but because it was only an entree serving, there was only a piece each for The Chief and I, so when we demolished our share we were hungry for the rest of our dishes to arrive.

So we waited

Took some photos

Checked where our order was (on its way apparently)

Drank some super sweet soft drink

Waited

Got cranky

And when I went in to check on our order the second time, the guys behind the counter looked sheepish. Apparently our order was on the floor and they'd only just realised.

"Its coming in two mins max" they promised.

He wasn't making our food

But it was around 11pm and we'd be there for an hour and a half. No apology no offer to comp us, nothing. I was more than a little miffed and not to mention hungry.

We paid for our Tandoori and four soft drinks and left in an unsatisfied and hungry huff.

That's a 0-2 for Faheem's and I don't think I'll be heading back. Such a shame because I've heard they do really great food, its just that I've never had any of it.

Faheem Fast Food 194-196 Enmore Rd, Enmore, NSW 2042

East London West Sydney

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 07:42:00 +0000

When the Chief and I moved from Richmond (the posh west side of the district line) to Barking (not the posh east side of the district line)in London, our friends grimaced.

Why we didn't choose to live in Putney or Hammersmith or even Earl's Court like the rest of the Aussies in London baffled some.

Home sweet Barking

We moved to East London initially for one reason- it was cheap and we were kind of broke at the time. But once we got to Barking the reasons for staying only grew.

1. Jerk Chicken- I am obsessed with eating it and we could get it everywhere

2. Barber shops- I loved hanging out in them, it sounds weird but I really liked all the local (sometimes Polish, sometimes Bangladeshi)mostly Jamaican barber shops. Because the Chief and I were really the only Australian/Eurasian/Fijians around we got to know everyone and it was always so friendly and fun. A huge bonus for us hanging at the barber shop too was all the hairstyles we got to try out. I tried zigzag cornrows/extensions/bleaching/wigs and weaves. We soul gloed (or "texturised) the Chief's fro once, and I also convinced him that he'd look good with some "Craig Davids" (he still hasn't forgiven me)

3. Westham United: We became massive fans and only lived five minutes away from Westham's home ground Upton Park. Although I am not a huge soccer/football fan, I did like the swearing really loudly with a bunch of strangers aspect of going to watch soccer/football. A huge highlight was walking down the famous Green St singing "Bubbles" and chanting "East! East! East! Laaandann".

4. Cockney Rhyming Slang: I always got it Pete Tong when trying to get it Barry White but Geezers never gave a crispy duck, so it was fine. Innnit *

5. Being so close to Essex: Essex gets a bad rap, but I only have love for East Enders. Ms Mash, my bestie is "proper east ender love" and I wouldn't say anything bad about Essex around Ms Mash or she'll rip your extensions out and stab you with a gel nail if she ever sees you at Faces or the Sugar Hut.

Of course it wasn't always so great in the East, there were moments that were really hairy but East London was always full of life and noise, markets and hair shops, geezers and gangsters.

The mix of cultures, religions and customs was such a great addition to living in London which I don't think I would of got if I had stayed in the West with all the other Aussies.

So when I heard East London West Sydney a hip hop theatre piece was playing the Sydney Festival, It was a given that I would have to see it.

Ms P, Mystery and I headed to Carriage Works to see what promised to be a huge mash up of music, multimedia and hip hop theatre.

Western Sydney and East London share a lot of the same social stigmas and battle the same sorts of stereotypes. East London West Sydney bring together leading emcees and urban poets from both cities in this slick hip hop theatre piece in an attempt to the smash myths and debunk the stigmas associated with both places.

Directed and produced by London based, internationally renowned theatre practitioner and spoken word artist Jonzi D, the small cast of six bring to life stories from these parallel cities.

Artists, BrothaBlack, Sarah Sayeed, MC Trey, Rima Najm and Maxwell Golden use a mash up of hip hop, dance, poetry and music to explore themes of racism, drugs, cultural identity and religion in this fast pace performance.

ELWS Cast and Crew

The cast is young and rash and the stories their own. Initially devising the piece over the Internet the cast and crew reworked the piece ready for the festival in just under three weeks.

East London West Sydney, is fast and dangerous theatre, challenging, entertaining and will have you want to bust out a flow too by the end of it.

For me, it made me appreciate and miss East London. (and hungry for jerk Chicken. )

East London West Sydney plays as a part of the Sydney Festival until Sunday January 30. Buy your tickets here

*I always got it wrong when I tried to get it right. But people didn't give a f**K. Good, isn't it.

Everyone deserves a Susan: Annie Leibovitz: A Photograher's Life @ The MCA

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 07:50:00 +0000

I expected to see glamorous Vanity Fair covers at the Annie Leibovitz: A Photographers life exhibit at the MCA.

I was completely prepared to ogle pictures of gorgeous gowns and pretty boys and pregnant celebrities- I didn't expect to ball my eyes out.

Not that there wasn't any said photographs, there were plenty and yes the pictures were often beautiful, excessive and dramatic.

But it wasn't the Demis, Brads, Leos, Kates or Johnnys that really fascinated me.

It was pictures of a woman called Susan which drew my attention away from the glitter and famous naked bellies.

The exhibition covers 15 years of Leibovitz career from 1990-2005, images of Susan were interspersed throughout the exhibition- with very little and sometimes no explanation from Leibovitz.

The photos of Susan were so personal and raw, I scoured the exhibition looking just for them. It was apparent to me that she was someone very special and I was convinced that she was the love Leibovitz life.

Pictures of Susan's cancer prognosis, her treatment and finally her death were dotted between pictures of famed portraits of celebrities, family and also Leibovitz's pregnancies. I found the hanging and order of the photograph's odd and sometimes confronting. Perhaps like in life itself, insensitive in a way that it (life) must and always goes on.

I have since learned that the Susan in the photograph's was indeed the great love of Leibovitz's life and also a renowned author, activist and intellectual herself.

When pressed to explain her relationship with Susan, Leibovitz once said: "Call us 'lovers'. I like 'lovers.' You know, 'lovers' sounds romantic. I mean, I want to be perfectly clear. I love Susan."

See Annie Leibovitz: A Photographer's Life 1990-2005 for all those images that you know and to see images that you don't but understand.

Showing at the MCA until March 27 2011

A Short and Sweet decade

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 03:57:00 +0000

A pair of gay penguins, a set of Dorris Day and Kyle Sandilands stalkers, a prostitute, a scorned lover, plenty of Mum issues, pokies and a call centre.

Where else can you get all this fun? (No not a family BBQ) Short and Sweet of course, the world's most entertaining, dramatic, camp, hysterical, lovely,10 minute play festival in the world.

With its humble beginnings in Newtown 10 years ago, Short and Sweet has now become the biggest festival of its kind and is held annually from Rockhampton to Delhi.

I've been to a few Short and Sweets over the years and went again last week for round two of the Top 110 and it certainly didn't disappoint.

My favourite play, "The Real Story" a gut wrenching piece about of Mother and Son's fraught relationship took top honours and will go on to compete in the Gala Final on March 11 & 12 at NIDA.

The Real Story: Winner of Week two

The other play that I loved, "Call of the Wilde" a story about two fairy (gay) penguins hatching an egg together in the Central Park Zoo was voted People's Choice.

Call of the Wilde: People's choice

For me what's so great about 10 minute theatre and Short and Sweet is that there isn't any boring bits. Ever. You are either laughing, crying, squinting or shifting awkwardly in your seat which is a pretty successful day at the theatre I'd say.

Short and Sweet is on every weekend until March 12, be quick to secure your tickets, Week 3 is almost sold out!

Click here to get your tickets for Short and Sweet at Newtown Theatre (Playing until February 27)

Click here to get your tickets for Short and Sweet at NIDA (From February 8- 26)

My name in lights- The Sydney Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 02:14:00 +0000

In November I wrote about artist John Baldessari's Your Name in Lights project for the Sydney Festival.

I opened my email this morning and was informed that my name will be screened for 15 glittering seconds on the wall of the Australian Museum on Sunday at the wonderful time of 6.47.40am.

Will I get up to see it? Probably, but if I don't want to drag my butt out of bed on Sunday morning I can watch my 15 seconds of fame on a web cam on the festival site here
There is still time for you to register to get your name in lights, click here.

Fingers crossed your name appears at a more reasonable time than mine.

Happy Festival everyone!

New Year's eve solution: Jungle Fever @ Tonic Lounge

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 06:00:00 +0000

Every year (end) the "the what am I going to do for new year's that isn't lame and overrated" conundrum never fails to annoy me.

The last couple of years I've been overseas so I haven't really had to think too hard, the sheer fact that I was in London (08/09) and in Beijing (09/10) was exciting enough.

But this year I am back in Sydney and the thought of struggling to get a good vantage point for fireworks and then the crazy lines and exorbitant entry fees to some wanky clubs isn't exactly my idea of a great way to greet 2011.

What I wanted for New Year's Eve, was to party with friends and like minded peeps, have yummy cocktails, dance the night away to some great music and possibly wear an Afro wig.

So the solution? Throw a party with mates, have some excellent tunes at the funky Tonic Lounge, and call it Jungle Fever. (Yes I loved the movie)

The Tonic Lounge is such a sexy little venue, one of Sydney's original small bars. I have had so many great nights in that terrace listening to some of Sydney's finest musos that it made sense that Jungle Fever should be there.

Great venue, check, delish cocktails double check.

Next on the list was secure girl crushes and hot Sydney band ALPHAMAMA to play tunes- lucky for us they agreed and suddenly Jungle Fever is not only alive but so so exciting.

ALPHAMAMA- Sydney's funkiest band

So if you're still at a loss to what to do for NYE, come down to Tonic, Afro or no Afro, for Jungle Fever. Great tunes, cool cats, yummy cocktails and a strict no wanker policy- its going to be great night.

Jungle Fever Featuring ALPHAMAMA

Tonic Lounge

62-64 Kellet St

Kings Cross

bookings@toniclounge.com.au

$50 at the door

Rochester Ginger- Ginger beer for grown ups

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 06:58:00 +0000

When the Chief and I headed to Master Chef Live a few weeks back all we did was eat.

What else were we going to do right? There was food everywhere and I certainly can put it away when it comes to free food.

We also spent a whole stack of cash on things to take home and try later- we both get very excited at food stands and buy stuff that we wouldn't usually do in real life (flavoured salt and kilos of beef jerky are recent examples)

But something I tried and loved and now I am obsessed with is Rochester Ginger.

By the time we got to the Rochester stand, we'd pretty much eaten ourselves sick and I wasn't really keen to taste any more- and a ginger drink that promises to be like "A kick from two angry mules" didn't really grab me at first.

Couldn't find a pic of two angry mules but did find this cute one instead

But as it was free, I couldn't resist and I was literally gobsmacked by it.

I was shocked its really spicy and kind of burns (in a good way) Rochester is made from a recipe dating back to 1870 and contains 14% raw ginger root, crushed with elderflower, cowslip and raisins. Yep its non alcoholic, although it tastes like it could be.

I've gone through two bottles in two weeks and I am on my way to purchase more. Its a shame that it isn't available widely, if you want to try some for yourself click here for a list of stockists- it very very yummy in a very grown up way.

Rochester Ginger

Around $23 Retail

Available in selected delis and health food stores

Heartbreaker: A delicious french comedy

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 02:35:00 +0000

I love all things French- although in summer time I do think Paris can smell a lot like pee but other than that I adore it all.

I actually prefer French films over Hollywood ones, the humour, drama and romance is always amped up to the max, but some how never too crass or camp impressively.

And director Pascal Chaumeil's film Heartbreaker or L'arnacoeur certainly delivers on the romance, comedy and gorgeous French eye candy.

Heartbreaker, stars Mrs Johnny Depp, Vanessa Duris as Julliette, an independent and soon the be married wealthy heiress. Duris, as Alex, a smarmy ladies man and professional relationship wrecker sent to break up Julliette's engagement.

The film is like a delicious French meal, indulgent, beautifully presented and in some parts a little too sweet.

From Morocco to Monaco the scenery is as beautiful as the two leads. Besides all the visual stimulation there are some great comedic moments punctuated by 80's classics WHAM! and Dirty Dancing.

The supporting cast in brilliant as well and will have you smirking and giggling at some of the brilliant and cheeky moments and by the end of it you will be able to recite Alex's break up monologue word for word in French and English.
Brilliant fun and possibly useful if you need to dump someone soon.

See Heartbreaker from December 26 at:
Cremorne Orpheum
Roseville
Palace Verona
Palace Norton
Hoyts Cinema Paris

The Sydney Kings: A reintroduction to a good time (and basketball)

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 01:58:00 +0000

When I was little, my parents decided that out of all the sports I could play as an uncoordinated, short, clumsy and short sighted seven year old, basketball would be the one for me.

I was terrible, I couldn't catch the ball, I couldn't dribble, I certainly couldn't shoot a basket and I was really really scared. (Um the ball is hard and it hurts when it hits you in the face by the way)

But what I did love about basket ball was the Sydney Kings, actually let me get specific, what I loved about the Sydney Kings was Steve Carfino.

The Sydney Kings (with Steve) came to my basket ball club once and I proceeded to snot cry uncontrollably at him.

Steve Carfino around 1989- what a dream boat!

Chubby little me, with piggy tails and all couldn't believe my luck when dreamy Steve picked me up and paid some attention to me. Thus, making that day the highlight of my seven years on earth.(I also met the cast of Home and Away at Australia's wonderland too- huge year for seven year old Amy)

I had forgotten that memory until recently when the Chief and were lucky enough to be invited to a Sydney Kings game and better still got to rectify my snot cry meeting with Steve "dream boat" Carfino.

It had been many years since I'd played or even watched basketball- possibly the last basketball related thing I had got excited about was Space Jam- but heading into the Entertainment Centre or the King Dome to the sound of an excited stadium (and Rodney O's familiar baritones) my heart started thumping.

Obviously, scoring VIP tickets to the floor seats, or rather the Jack Nicholson seats, where you're actually on the court so close to the game the players sweat on you was an amazing bonus.

The only slight downside was I was sat next to Miss Universe Australia and the X Factor kids, watching mammoth athletes do their thing, so I did spend the majority of the game feeling slightly inadequate. (and wishing that I had put on some mascara )

The rest of the game however, was spent cheering and hollering for The Kings, watching the King's Lion mascot charm the crowd, hearing Rodney O hype the stadium and spying on boys who were sneakily doing a David Beckham and ogling the Kings Cheer leaders.

And I did get my second chance to impress Steve or rather not cry on him at least. And yep, he is still dreamy, the Chief chided afterwards that I was all red and flustered talking to him guaffing like a seven year old- oh well.

It was a great night and a huge sensory overload, it was so good to see the Kings back and at home in Sydney. Although the boys aren't at the pointy end of the table just yet, we are still the only NBL team that have won three consecutive NBL championships and it won't be long until we're back on top.

So get behind our team and check out a home game (you never know you might even get to rub shoulders with the Sydney who's who or at least the Sydney Lion)

The Sydney Kings
sydneykings.com

Edible cocktails at the Zeta Bar: The cure for a bad day

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 05:47:00 +0000

I know its been a bad day for Ms Mash when she starts a phone call like this:

"Babe! f*#k f*#k f*#kity f*#k!"

....pause....

"I need a drink and possibly some food."

(unfortunately for Ms Mash she came through to my reception first so the call for me actually went like this:)

Reception:

"Um Ames, your cousin Jane is on the phone."

Me:

"Oh dear. Put her through."

Ms Mash:

"Oh my f*#king god! I just swore at your f*#king receptionist and then told her I was your bleeding cousin, do you even have cousins? Shit!- I hope I don't get you fired babe. F*#K!"

So yes it was a bad day for Ms Mash and I knew just the remedy:

Booze: Check

Food: Check

Edible Booze: Check Check Check

Where: Zeta Bar

Trio of Edible Classics $15
L-R Deconstructed Mojito, Long Island Ice Tea Wine Gum, Pina Colada sorbet
(image from The Australian)

The Zeta Bar is renowned for its extensive and awarded cocktail menu. I myself have been a big fan of Zeta for a long time and my love affair continues now that I've discovered the Trio of Edible Classics.

What a great drink/ snack/adult lolly selection/bad mood remedy it is, the trio consists of:

1. Deconstructed Mojito

(image from Ms Mash's phone)

2. Long Island Ice Tea Wine Gum

Looks like a sour coke bottle tastes like a strong long Island Ice tea- Yum! This one is my favourite.

3.Pina Colada Sorbet

Ms Mash's favourite, this creamy coco-nutty sorbet is delicious.

The only little teeny tiny problem with the trio is that you forget that you are consuming alcohol and after a few rounds there could be a little confusion on why you're feeling so tipsy. (Don't judge me)

If edible cocktails aren't your thing the Zeta has an extensive and impressive menu for you to choose from, check out a sample here

What I can guarantee is this, if you're having a bad day like Ms Mash was, the edible cocktails can certainly illicit some sort of reaction to jolt you right out of your mood:- "Oooh is it ice cream or is it proper naughty- get me another round?" as an example.

Zeta Bar (at the Hilton)

Level 4, 488 George Street

Sydney, NSW 2000

Telephone: (02) 9265 6070

DIANE von FURSTENBERG Boutique opens in Sydney

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 06:50:00 +0000

To be honest, the first time that I heard about the label Diane Von Furstenberg or DVF, was while watching The City.

In fashion terms I had been living under a rock, DVF, I have since learned, is an absolute fashion icon and its creator Diane: a living legend.(and an ex princess)

Lucky for me, my DVF education can kick up a notch now that Sydney has its very first DVF flagship store in the new Sydney Westfield.

Ms Mash and I were fortunate to get a sneak peak into the new store and what can I say! I am now a complete DVF convert.

I felt instantly grown up and glamorous entering DVF's new Sydney home- the cupcakes and champagne helped too of course and so did the lovely tips from the gorgeous stylist who was on hand to lead us in the right direction.

We were told that what makes DVF so perfect for Sydney is that the garments are "Trans Seasonal" which means that can be worn and adapted to suit all of seasons.

"Put some leggings on dahhhling and it is ready for winter," the ever so chic DVF stylist says as I stuff my face with a cupcake.

Style bible from Wrap Queen DVF

We are also shown some of DVF's most famed pieces: The iconic wrap dress and scarves with bold prints, very fancy.

Keep an eye out for label DVF vintage too, these are some of DVF's classic prints from previous collections in new pieces.

Definitely take some time to visit the new DVF store, the clothes are just lovely and the girls are so nice in there too- they might even give you a cupcake!

DVF Sydney

WESTFIELD SYDNEY
188 PITT STREET

The girl you should be listening to right now: Nicki Minaj

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 02:41:00 +0000

Wow this girl has had an amazing 2010 no? Gaga better watch her back because Nicki Minaj is kind of owning it right now.

I of course don't profess to be a music blogger, I like hair and food mostly. But I do also like outstanding individuals who have their tongue firmly placed in their cheek and Nicki is certainly right up there.

What else makes me dig Nicki you ask?

Five reasons mainly:

1. Her amazing verse on Kanye's Monster.

She completely leaves Kanye, Bon Iver and Jay Z in her dust. Wowzers:

Skip to 3.16 and listen here (there are swear words people, so if your sensitive don't listen)

2. The girl rocks a wig like nobody else

3. She has an alter ego called Roman Zolanski (and that's just funny)

and I want to be at a dinner party with Sascha Fierce, Slim Shady, Jo Calderon and Roman Zolanski.

4. She doesn't rely on her sex appeal to get attention

She told interview magazine this year:

"I made a conscious decision to try to tone down the sexiness, I want people—especially young girls—to know that in life, nothing is going to be based on sex appeal. You’ve got to have something else to go with that.”

5. Her debut album Pink Friday is just so good

Since snapping up my copy its been on repeat and its caused me to sing/bop/tap along in public.

It looks like everyone wanted to be on it too with guest appearances from Eminem, Drake, WILL.I.AM, Kanye West and Rhianna.

Get your copy folks, we'll be definitely hearing more from Nicki in 2011.

*images from google images

Dine out and help out the homeless with SteetSmart

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 12:57:00 +0000

StreetSmart's Dine out...Help out is on again until December 24.

This is such a great cause and so easy for you to paticipate in: Just eat at a paticpating resturant and leave a donation and 100% of your donation goes to work and straight to charity. Fantastic!

Did you know that tonight there will be 100,000 homeless Aussies on the street? That is far too many in my opinion, so dig deep and leave a big donation.

To find a paticipating resturant, click here

I'll be tucking in at my favourite Newtown spot Oscillate Wildly and leaving my donation- you should totally too.

15 seconds of fame: your name in lights at the Sydney Festival 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:45:00 +0000

Who hasn't dreamt of seeing their name in lights? I know I had many a teenage dream of popstardom/soapstardom/wagdom. (plus and minus the fake tan and hair extensions)

The Sydney Festival 2011, the Kaldor Public Art Project and conceptual artist John Baldessari will be beaming 100,000 names in lights for 15 seconds each during the festival on the exterior wall of the Australian Museum.

Better still, your name could be one of them! Register here for your chance at 15 seconds of fame.

And check out the full festival line up here, get your tix folks it is going to be a cracker!

The Loved Ones Australian Premiere

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 05:33:00 +0000

The Chief and I were lucky enough to score an invite to the Australian premiere of The Loved Ones.

(The scariest/funniest/tripiest movie I have seen in a long time.)

I have a strange relationship with horror movies, technically I hate them. I'm the girl in the cinema clinging on to your arm in the really scary bits. (that's if I'm looking at the screen)

I'm actually usually hidden under my jacket or looking at the ground, rocking back and forth with my fingers in my ears humming to myself to be honest.

But I do love a good party and I really love Aussie films (the cringier and campier the better) so I was really excited when I read that the The Loved Ones promised to be like "Pretty in pink meets Wolf Creek," how could I resist!

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Play the trailer! Its spooky and scarily good!

Before the film started, director Sean Byrne introduced the cast and lead actress Robin Mcleacy even wore a "Prom" dress for the occasion. We were all warned to get to know the person next to us quickly because we'd soon be clinging on to them- I was scared before the opening credits started to roll.

I then spent the next two hours with my nails dug into the Chief's arm and my jaw agape. It was the most gruesome, blood curdling film I have seen ~~in a long long long time~~ EVER! With a thumping soundtrack a sexy young Aussie cast and some slick sick scenes, the whole audience were obviously engrossed. We jumped, moaned and screamed in unison.

Director Sean Byrne and cast Robyn Mcleavy, Richard Wilson and Victoria Thaine

I won't be able to think about school dances and unrequited teenage love the same way again. I don't think I will be able to look at tiara, use a nail gun or listen to Kasey Chambers' 'Not pretty enough." again either.

The Cargo Bar was the venue for the after party and as we entered we were greeted by zombie like "victims". Lucky for me the drink for the night was my new favourite Green Fairy Absinth which did a great job of quelling my shot nerves

If you're into edgy and smart films with a big dose of horror and black comedy, you won't want to miss this one. The Loved Ones opens nationally in select cinemas November 4.

JLo's twins debut for Gucci

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 02:06:00 +0000

If the rumours are true Beyonce and Jay Z are having baby, which means the the Pinkett-Smith's and the Joelie-Pitt's are about to have some stiff competition for most talented/beautiful/fortunate celebrity family.

However, another family that could give them a good run for the title is Jennifer Lopez and her husband, Marc Anthony and their little twins Emme and Max.

Gucci seem to think so too and have snapped JLo and her twins for their new children's campaign.

Cute kids no? Apparently litte Emme does her own styling, when I was 2 I didn't know the front from the back or if my shirt was my pants. I also didn't own anything from Gucci until I was 22, so these little cuties are way ahead of me already.

*pics from Dailymail.co.uk

Going in for the chop: Rocking the pixie crop

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 09:01:00 +0000

I didn't grow my hair long until I was 17. I rocked the classic "china doll" for all of my childhood and teenage years. (Except for when I was 12, I wilded out and tried the "bowl"- it was very Martika)

Since 17, I've maintained that if my hair doesn't touch my boobs it's too short. I call this phase my Samson stage. I've carried the phobia of loosing my locks ~~(power)~~ around for years and its turned me into a nervous wreck/spoilt brat when it comes to hair salons. Lucky for me now (and lucky for unsuspecting stylists) my friends now do my hair. This way I can be as ridiculous as I want with my hair demands and they can put me in my place when I am too much of a diva.

Michelle and Anne both look beautiful with shorter dos

But this year I've noticed that short hair, especially the pixie crop, popping up all over the place. Some of my most favourite ladies have gone for the chop and I am loving it. The cut is just so flattering and feminine, something that my inner Samson finds completely conflicting. And just look at Miss Kelly Rowland, she ditches the extensions and her wow factor skyrockets! Just look at her, what a fox.

Emma and Kelly go from "pretty" to AMAZING!

And now, my beautiful friend Katja, who also happens to be my hairdresser/Finish best mate/all round super hottie has chopped her hair and WOWZERS!! Just look at her!! (YEP she really looks like this people, and no she isn't a Scandinavian pop star)

Katja before Katja after

My jaw smashed on to the floor when I walked in and saw Katja with this new crop. When she cut it, her hair was half way down her back and golden blonde. And now cropped right at her a ear and platinum. Totally Roxette and completely stunning!

I am now considering going for the big chop and Katja has given me these great tips about loosing the do:

Katja's big chop tips:

1. Look at lots of photos and decide what style you like

2.Print lots of photos and take them to your stylist- they will be able to talk to you about what suits your face and hair type

3.If your hair is long and you are uncertain (like me) about cutting your hair- wear it short for week. Fake it with pins and hair ties to see if you like it.

4. So your hair won't frizz too much, get your hair treated with a deep conditioning treatment before cutting it.

5. If your hair is thick/curly/wavy, get it chemically straightened. This way your do won't "poof" out like a mushroom and will be easier to style in the morning.

6. Once it's cut short, don't wash it every day. Second day hair usually has more texture. Texture is great for the Pixie

7. If you hate doing your hair and don't really like to style it, Pixie dos aren't great as they require lots of maitinence. Cut it gradually and into a bob first.

8. If you don't have one, buy a straightener before you go for the chop. It will become your biggest styling friend and take all of two minutes to use in the morning.

If you live in Sydney, you can get Katja to sort your hair here (yep boys and girls)

Chocolate crimes

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 00:48:00 +0000

When I was 6 I stole a Freddo Frog from Franklins. I was shopping with my Mum and remember asking her if she would buy it for me.

I don't remember why she said no, but she did and I remember the distinct feeling of absolute devastation. I also remember my heart thumping right out of my chest as I left the shop with the Freddo stuffed up my shirt.

By the time I got home, the stowaway Freddo had melted and was squishy and smooshy in its packet. I couldn't bring myself to eat it- mostly out of fear of getting into trouble. I threw my stolen, melted Freddo in the bin and I never went back to that Franklins with my Mum either. I was convinced if I did they would know that I was a Freddo thief.

I never stole anything again, my Mum used to say thieves go blind and lose their hands and I never wanted that.

I was never punished for stealing that Freddo and although I am confessing now, I have gotten a way with it.

In Iran right now, a 21 year old man has been sentenced to a year in prison for stealing chocolate and cocoa from a Tehran patisserie.

Sharia law in Iran enforce amputation as punishment for repeated thefts. As well as 12 months in prison, the young Iranian man's hand will also be chopped off. I guess my Mum's saying is true in Iran. I count myself pretty lucky that I live in Australia.

The High Tea Party

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 08:19:00 +0000

Ladies who lunch fascinate me. Is their existence a full time commitment to shopping, facials, mani/pedis and gossip? And what and who do they gossip about?

Miss P and I got to find out first hand when we attended The High Tea party for an afternoon of finger food and facials.

We arrived at The Westin hotel to see it transformed into an estrogen love in. Miss P remarked when we registered, "I have never seen so many women in one spot, what a sensory overload."

A sensory overload indeed, it was a "hello dahhhling, love your shoes, love your hair, is that your real tan?" mega fest.

The High Tea party's website describe the event as "a gorgeous excuse to catch up with the girls." What it was, was an maze of hair, make up, fashion, alcohol, shoes, facinators and high tea. (and what woman doesn't like sugar and cute little cakes and sandwiches)

It was great to see Mums, Nanas and Daughters all there together on the day getting their hair and nails did and actually all pretty much talking about boys. "As you get older love, the conversations just get dirtier," one lovely Nana said to us.

The highlight of the day for me wasn't the unlimited girly things to do, although I'm a sucker for a french manicure, it was hearing from Tracy Bevan, best friend of Jane McGrath and co-founder of the McGrath Foundation.

Tracy had us all spell bound with tales of her beautiful friendship with Jane. She told us about the promises that Jane made her keep during her battle with breast cancer too and the entire room was simultaneously sad but also inspired by friendship and determination.

Jane was only 31 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer and Tracy urged us all to diligent when it came to looking after our health. She also told us about the amazing work that the McGrath Foundation do and the commitment to providing breast care nurses to more women who are undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

A day of girly indulgence with an underlining message about the importance of health and friendship was a great way to spend time with ladies who lunch.

Guylian Belgian chocolate cafe and "200 Pounds Beauty"

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 07:43:00 +0000

I am obesessed with ageing. Even when I was 19 I was using anti wrinkle creams( Yes I know its ridiculous)

When Ms Mash was producing something for a cosmetics company that focussed on botox and other scary sounding injectables I was extrememly excited. She stills pokes fun at my "ooooh botox" comments.

Today we headed to the Korean Film Festival to see the film "200 Pounds Beauty," Ms Mash quips: "If I have to hear about you wanting to get lipo after this Ames, we might have to reconsider our friendship."

The literal translation of the film's title from Korean to English is being beautiful is agonising. The movie is such a cute little romantic comedy about a part time phone sex operator and part time singer who under gos a complete body re haul in hopes to launch her career and to get the boy she loves to notice her.

Strangely though, we learn that plastic surgery is apparently really popular with young women in Korea. I find its acceptance confronting. Cheery pop songs blare as the lead character Hannah is bound tight on a surgery table after she's been poked, proded and chopped at- it was a little disconcerting in some parts.

At least "200 Pounds Of Beauty" was a light hearted and well meaning comedy, it was like the Korean Shallow Hal, with pop songs.

Determined to become our own versions of 200 pound beauties we headed straight to the Guylian Belgian Chocolate cafe for some post movie comfort eating.

Who goes to a chocolate cafe to order just lunch anyway? To be honest, the Quiche Lorraine that I ordered and the smoked turkey bouquet moines(fancy name for an average baguette) that Ms Mash got, was so so. Nothing great but nothing bad, just kind of average. Which is a little disappointing considering they were both around $14 each.

After discussing the pros and cons of boob jobs, botox, bum lifts and finally liposuction our plates of Tiramisu and "G Forrest" arrived. (Both $15.25) With that, our lunch was redeemed with what Guylian does best, desserts and chocolate.

Ms Mash and I decide that we like Korean films, if we come back to the Guylian Belgian Chocolate Cafe that we should only order chocolate and I promise Ms Mash that I won't get anything injected into my face or sucked out of my body until I'm atleast 40.

Korean Film Festival

Deny Opera Quays

Until Oct 5

Sydney Guylian Belgian Chocolate Cafe

Shop 10, Opera Quays
3 Macquarie Street
Sydney NSW 2000

My mum told me this one too. Tried and true advice

noreply@blogger.com (Amy CCandC) — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 01:13:00 +0000

From the cutest blog: stuff no one told me