5 Handbags Not to Carry on a First Date

Women in New York City are constantly on first dates, as we’re always searching for Mr. Right through a concrete jungle of Mr.Wrongs, Mr. Right Nows and Mr. One Night Stands. You already know what shoes to avoid, what not to order and what not to drink to appear like the classy lady you are.

Most guys pay no attention to what women are wearing in the sense of up-to-the-minute trends. Remember that men will notice if you look polished and put together. Carrying a purse the size of airport checked luggage might make for a scene. So, what handbags should you avoid carrying on a first date?

(via YesStyle)

Oversized Tote. This perfect-for-the-office purse fits everything - your laptop, a mini makeup bag, umbrella, water bottle and heck, even your puppy. But, carrying around a giant Mary Poppins bag may make for a scene as you lug it through a crowded bar or knock over a glass at a fancy restaurant.

(via Valentino)

Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Purse. You know that bag that you just HAD to buy for it’s adorable design, but it barely fits your iPhone and keys? Avoid bringing that miniature purse on a date, as you’ll want to carry a bit more than a tube of lipstick and a condom. Plus, it will drive him crazy to watch you struggle as your force the zipper closed to wedge in the few items you packed for the evening.

(via Purse Page)

Bedazzled Handheld Clutch. This beautiful accessory may have looked fashionable on Carrie Bradshaw, but this glittery small hard case will drive you nuts, as you have to keep it in your hands all night. If you’ll be dancing or enjoying an outdoor date, bring a bag with a cross body chain or leather strap instead, so you’re hands will be free for more important things like holding his hand or throwing your hands up in the air on the dance floor.

(via Strand)

Canvas Tote. He may appreciate that you’re going green, but unless your date is at your neighborhood farmer’s market, a canvas tote is not date appropriate.  This type of bag is too casual for a first date environment.

(via Shopbop)

Backpack. Even if you’re backpack is a leather hipster style, this type of bag is still too frumpy for a date. A handbag that rests on your shoulder or crosses your body is more feminine and dressed up for a date night out. Drop your backpack at your apartment or lock it up at your gym before you meet with your potential Prince Charming.

Starbucks vs. Local Coffee Shops in the East Village

Yesterday, a Starbucks opened in the East Village, after months of protests from neighbors who prefer their local coffee shops to chains. The brand new Starbucks was even reportedly egged this weekend before their official opening.

As an East Village resident for the past 6 years, I’ve come to love my local coffee shops - especially Paradiso, B Cup, The Bean, 9^th Street Espress0 and Mocha for their neighborhood vibe, menu offerings and plain ‘ole good cups of coffee.

The Starbucks took over The Bean's old space, due to issues they had a few months back making the pricey rent. Neighbors were outraged to lose a local favorite for a chain. (Happy to report The Bean's new location is much nicer and larger on 2nd ave!)

While I am not a frequent Starbucks drinker, I think they’re convenient when you’re running to the subway and are in need of a caffeine fix. They’re also reliable when you don’t have cash and want to use a card, as most local coffee shops are cash only. Starbucks also offers low-calorie breakfast items, such as a Spinach and Feta Egg White Wrap, which is a great on-the-go option to stick to your diet.

Do you think the addition of this Starbucks, along with the IHOP on 14^th Street and a couple 7-Elevens changes the neighborhood to feel like the burbs rather than downtown NYC? xo

The Big Cheesy at Openhouse Gallery

Grilled cheese is a serious business in New York City. From food trucks pressing bread and cheese on the go to a recently opened shop with a grilled cheese-only menu, New Yorker’s are declaring their favorite cheesy comfort sandwiches.

Next weekend, Openhouse Gallery is hosting The Big Cheesy, a two-day grilled cheese pop up to declare the best sandwich in the city and celebrate creative takes and tastes on this childhood classic.

Participating in the celebration are Murray’s, Big Daddy’s, Casellula, Little Muenster, Lucy’s Whey, Melt Shop and Tartinery. They’ll be making seven exquisite types of grilled cheese to pair with a 16 oz. tallboy of Sixpoint Sweet Action, Righteous Ale, Crisp Pilsner or Bengali Tiger IPA. Bringing you kid sister? She can sip on Bella Lula to wash down her creamy sandwich tastings.

Guests will get one vote to leave at their favorite table. The winning chefs will get a half-page ad in Edible Manhattan, a certificate and the crown of best sandwich in the city.

To purchase tickets and reserve a time slot, go to Time Out New York Offers & Experiences. For the story on last year’s participants and photos of creamy, gooey goodness, check out my adventure at The Big Cheesy 2011.

The Big Cheesy at Openhouse Gallery. Sat & Sun Feb 25 & 26 | 1-7pm 

Pinterest is a Must-Have Social Network in NYC

Pinterest has been a social image sharing site loved by fashion and food bloggers to ladies with a shopping addiction since Time published Pinterest in its "50 Best Websites of 2011".  

Journalists and news publications have recently jumped on this image sharing bandwagon, along with many of your Facebook friends!

To follow along on my foodie obsessions, city girl style inspirations and apartment designing ideas, visit Sarah Shaker on Pinterest. You can follow all of my boards or just the ones that interest you. Pinterest has made image and link sharing easy and attractive.

If you're new to Pinterest, check out my recommendations:

Interested in local New York City neighborhood news? Follow along with the recently launched EveryBlock NYC Pinterest!

In love with food? Check out Sarah Spigelman (of Fritos and Foie Gras), Mckenzie Mahoney (of The MMMGuide), and Emma Moran (of Emma's Eats).

Are you a fashionista? Follow Glitter Guide, Caitlin Moran (of Style Within Reach), Courtney Cordeiro, Tricia Lewis (of Fashion Herald) and Amy Chandra (of Midtown Girl).

Addicted to news and pop culture? You'll need to follow James Stewart-Meudt (of NearSay), Today Show and NBC News.

If you don't already have Pinterest, request an invite now to organize and share the things you love!

Who are your must-follows on Pinterest? xo

5 Reasons to Beware of Girls Without Girlfriends

Most women rely on their close girlfriends as a shoulder to cry on, a sounding board for life’s dramas and for gossip sessions on the dirty details of new crushes. Women who don’t have female friends, don’t have them for a reason. When you meet a girl without lady besties, it’s a red flag that she may get in your way of finding love. If you’re a single lady out in the dating scene, beware of girls without girlfriends.

(My Boys image)

She’s a Serial Flirt. She will have no qualms about flirting with the guy you’ve been crushing on for weeks at a party. Right in front of you.

She "Claims" Men. You both may have met him a only a few hours ago at the bar, but she already made it clear to you (and anyone else who will listen) that she has set her sights on him, so back off.

She Never Plays Matchmaker. This woman puts herself first. She won’t ever set you up with her cute single friend, even though she claims she isn’t in love with him and she has a boyfriend. She doesn’t share well.

She’s BFF with the Guys. She’s always hanging out with dudes. This is the girl who’s been friends with your new crush or boyfriend for years, yet she never makes an attempt to befriend you. Even though you’ve tried and tried to get to know her.

She Blindsides Men. Don’t waste the time complaining about her or her recent behavior to your guy. He will never, ever, see your point. “What, Kirsten? I don’t see why you hate her so much, she’s so nice.”

Do you think girls without girlfriends make dating harder for other single girls? xo

Bobwhite Lunch and Supper Counter in the East Village

Fried chicken is not a meal for dieters. But, when done right, it’s a meal worth cheating for!

Bobwhite Counter recently opened in the East Village (all the way east) on Avenue C, serving up the kind of fried chicken Southerners in the big city dream about. 

Sit on a stool by the counter in this quaint space or make sure to arrive early to snag one of the few tables with your crew to indulge in a fried chicken meal, complete with rich seasonal sides, desserts and beers on tap.

The Fried Chicken Dinner for Four is not only an outstanding deal (at only $45), but it will satisfy even your hungriest guest. This meal includes 12 pieces of fried chicken, 3 sides of your choice, 4 biscuits and a mixed green salad.

The salad is adorned with shaved candy cane beets and a mustardy vinaigrette.

The biscuits are light and fluffy. When drizzled with a bit of honey, they are the perfect salty and sweet comfort food.

Tomato pudding is a great seasonal side for winter. The supple stewed tomatoes and onions are given a mix of parmesan cheese, for a warm side dish.

The cheesy grits are creamy, but without an overwhelming flavor. Those who don't typically like grits may enjoy this for its mild taste.

Macaroni and cheese and fried chicken go hand in hand. This mac n' cheese is a basic version of the creamy staple. 

The main event, fried chicken, has a crispy batter, without being too thick. The chicken is moist and flavorful. Although you'll be full after this dinner, you won't feel that post-greasy meal stomach ache, as each item is fresh and lighter than you'd expect.

Bobwhite Counter is worth the trip to Avenue C for a fresh comfort food dinner or lunch at an affordable price! 

Bobwhite Counter. 94 Avenue C.

(Photos from I Are The Food Snob)