Ladies get Excited! Sassy City Chicks and TheMixster.com proudly present: Sassy City Chicks San Diego Fashion Bash for Spring 2011 just for you! This revamped shopping event will be hosted at The Culy Warehouse in the Gaslamp/East Village District in San Diego on Thursday, February 24th, 2011 at 5pm-10pm. Connected to both the Gaslamp and East Village district and conveniently located adjacent to PETCO Park, this special gathering will give you the best of both worlds. The Spring Fashion Bash promises a 15,000 square foot event center, providing ample space and the opportunity to shop Spring fashions at prices up to 80% off retail! As well as exclusive ‘Sassy’ raffles, gift bags, complimentary spa services, and FREE cocktails are all included!

The prestigious event will provide fashion-forward quality couture for you marvelous women who want to get your shop on! Luxury Designer lines and new bold contemporary looks from top-notch brands such as Hudson, Paige Premium Denim, Young, Fabulous & Broke, Excess Baggage, Aknot Jewelry, Brit Boy Fashions, Liz Larios Jewelry, etc. will available all with a fingertip’s reach.

Complimentary Spa services will also be provided to soothe your soul and pamper you silly. Sassy City Chicks would like you to relax, sit back, and enjoy yourself by receiving the very best treatment, offered by and not limited to: Spa Terre, Bellagio Day Spa, Sue Devitt Beauty Team, Marinello.

ALSO CHECK OUT THE OFFICIAL AFTERPARTY!!
Ladies, rally your gal pals and get ready, because ‘girls night out’ in the Gaslamp just got sassier!
Sassy City Chicks and TK Productions will host an exclusive after-party at Ivy Nightclub, following the Sassy City Chicks Fashion Bash. Sassy shoppers who mention the “Sassy City Chicks Fashion Bash” at the door will get in FREE at Ivy Nightclub, located at the Andaz Hotel only a few minutes away from the Fashion Bash!

MIX EXCLUSIVE: *FREE ADMISSION FOR MIXSTERS!!!!*

******Enter promo code “MIXSTER” at check-out for your chance to win a Sassy Tote Ticket!!!! – which includes not only FREE ADMISSION into the event but the special “SASSY” swag bag, *FREE cocktails*, complimentary spa services, and MORE. There are only *25* codes available so grab your tickets NOW!!!!

SASSY CITY CHICKS FASHION BASH TICKETS!!!

Don’t want to risk not winning? Then enter ‘SD10′ at checkout for 50% OFF a Sassy Tote Ticket or ‘GEN AD’ for free general admission (gift bag not included).

HERE’S THE LINK TO SIGN UP—>http://app.championsound.com/2958/events/sassy-city-chicks-ticket-giveaway

By: David Afterlife

Sometimes life calls for a change. A new direction. When you have a fresh pair of new threads it fills you up with a sense of confidence and leaves you feeling savvy. THE BLEND is designed to arouse and inspire the magic forces at work, set ideas in motion, and get the juices flowing in what I like to call AESTHETIC STIMULATION. The term can be easily defined as the ‘personal branding’. Changing up your gear unlocks a different side of you, tapping into this beautiful way of thinking may turn a couple of heads and attract more personality to your surroundings.

I’ve got five ingredients, fresh and ready to stimulate your senses and pave the way for a cleaner and sleeker look. Charm and appeal can often be brought out when we feel our very best, and the seasons are destined to change. Here’s how to boost your confidence, image, and well… sex appeal.

Denim has a huge impact on the way we dress, and they range in different colors, sizes, and cuts. “The Cut” of the denim is the biggest asset of responsibility we can do in favor of ourselves when picking out an outfit. Think of it as your exterior skin, sometimes giving that skin a makeover changes the way others view it. Go ahead, fix up that barn!

Levi’s have just released their slimmest cut in years, while also are taking a greener stance by making their denim with less water usage than times recent. Introducing a new line labeled “Water<Less”, the eco-friendly jeans are manufactured using an average of 28 percent less water. While saving the planet you can also save a little in your wallet; these bad boys are coming in only at $80! This special denim above entitled “Ex-Girlfriend” is currently only available through select Levi’s Stores and OAK NYC in their special department A.OK. Grab these denim delights while they’re still fresh!

Shoes are meant for walking, but they do a lot of talking. And I’m talking about literally their tongues. Well, and a little more. Minimal is the way to go these days, so keep it clean and conservative.

Spring is almost back in full effect so what better way to prepare your feet by getting some new kicks! Sperry Topsiders are a great way to keep it casual and cool this new year. Whether you are planning a boating trip, a walk in the park, or just a local cruise through the streets Topsiders are a great way to pull off the classic image without looking dull, and while staying comfortable. They have a huge range in different colorways and come with many choice fabrics and material! They age very well, have a non-skid sole, and they are built to handle water. Both colorways above are specials currently at Sperry, my personal favorites are the Black on Black Leather (VERY RARE!) The range of price varies from $65-$95 not bad for a pair of shoes that could last you ages.

It always seems to be very difficult to find a bag that suits your needs while maintaining a clean look at the same time. What kind of bags you carry can often say much about you before you even speak. One thing for sure — it has to protect your goods, have plenty of space, and not be overbearing.

Julius has a great luxury bag if you want that soft supple lamb leather and a nice seamless finish, it’s a bit hefty coming in at almost $1400. Luckily, Blackbird Vintage has you covered with amazing bags that range in different sizes and prices to fit your budget, while keeping your hands empty and your shoulders light at the same time.

Jewelry has a tale all of it’s own. Most think that it’s not important or has very little to no value, but I know that’s not the case with you! Having the bases covered from head to toe is a coordination thing. Having that little extra flair around your neck, fingers, ears, or wrist changes up the game. It says “Hi, my name is _____.”, “Hello,  look at me. I’m edgy, classy, sophisticated, and have a sense of style.”, but not having any may not draw any attention at all. Think of the odds and ends as conversational composition. It may bring that attractive boy or girl closer by look, a compliment, or well a full conversation. Another way to look at it is that that special someone may just want to grab onto your special thing while being a bit closer to you.

One of my personal all time favorites has to be Alex & Chloe who signature style can compliment anyone, and keeps it pretty original. The prices are great and so are the pieces. Think instant magnetism!

Online shopping is the final frontier. It’s about the closest thing we have in our day to day lives that makes every thing teleport before our own eyes like Star Trek! Whether you know what you want or desire a certain style, you’re bound to find something bold and creative through giving the world-wide-web a little search effort.

Currently, ASOS.COM is where anybody who is highly into to fashion or trying to develop an online presence into their style is definitely there. Looks and style range big here, and they have a way to fit anyone’s budget onto their pages. Check them out today you’ll be glad you browsed.

Hopefully these looks are inspiring and spark an idea of change. Maybe, it will add a bit of selectivism in your eye, an add-on upgrade to your self-conscious diet.

By: David Afterlife

Every once in awhile we need a boost. A push forward. A slap on the ass to get things done and launch our minds into the creative plane.  THE BLEND is designed to arouse and inspire the magic forces at work, set ideas in motion, and get the juices flowing in what I like to call CREATIVE HYPE.  The term can be easily defined as the ‘state of invention’. No matter what you do on the day-to-day grind, tapping into this beautiful way of thinking will bring motivation and enlightenment to all your activities.

I’ve got five ingredients, fresh and ready to stimulate your senses and pave the way for a creative day.  Some music, some visual art, and some fashion for a proper appearance. Just one suggestion… Don’t let these things cut back your productivity. They have an enchanting way of gripping your attention and make the day pass by in haste…

RINSE.FM

Pirate radio has never been fresher. RINSE.FM has been on the forefront of electronic music for 16 years and climbing, and they just received their official broadcasting license at the tail end of 2010.  Beyond that, they’ve been on my personal listen list daily since my teens. Some of the world’s top artists in House, Dubstep, Future Bass, Funky (you name it) have graced the airwaves of this once illegal broadcast. You can view all the artists and their weekly shows, with podcast installments fully downloadable on the site. If you aren’t already familiar with this monster of a radio station, it is about time you get well-acquainted.

RINSE.FM WEBSITE

LOOKVA

LOOKVA.TV is a hub of brilliance.  Centered around music, fashion, photography, and all types of videos from the mildly strange to utterly absurd, this viewing tube is always a good stop to get the synapses firing.  They’ve curated a humongous library of visual stimuli that will make you turn page to page wanting more.  Big ups to Lookva… Remarkably fun stuff on here.

LOOKVA.TV WEBSITE

EDITS BY EDIT POSTERS

The genius’ behind EDITSBYEDIT.CO.UK have put a visual spin on some of our favorite genres of music. With music being so up to interpretation, it’s delightful to come across aesthetics that simply define styles of sound and make excellent pieces for any lonely wall space.  I’m just a tad bit hooked on these.  All Edits posters share a common ground: they’re modern, minimalistic, and oozing with crispness. The ones above from left to right represent Disco, Acid House, and Electro, with tons more available to fit your appeal. Visit their site and you’ll most likely end up with cash missing from your wallet and some fresh decorations in your living space.

EDITS BY EDIT WEBSITE

APLIIQ

Top-notch custom patch garments and personalized threads coming direct from APLIIQ. Between the amazing feel of the fabric and the uniqueness to its wearer, each T-Shirt, Hoodie, and Dress, is made specifically for you. You can grab their clothes in whatever color you want, with whatever design work that fits your steez. Another nice thing is that their brand shys away from overbearing logos all over the chest, arms, or legs.  It’s just you and your personalized apparel. Good shit.
APLIIQ WEBSITE

THE NEWTON WATCH

NIXON is infamous for stellar collections of affordable time pieces for the street-aware man. I’ve been highly digging their Newton watches, bringing you the future of telling time. Screw the numbers, all I see is dots. If you aren’t quick on precision time reading, this may not be the one for you, but damn do they look good. They come in all types of colors, with a nostalgic toy-like quality, yet are highly durable. Check em’ out.

NEWTON WATCH

Hopefully these ingredients put a smile on your face and lighten up the work load. The day-to-day grind can be monotonous, and colorful music, art, and fashion is my favorite way to keep the light bulbs flashing and the ideas rolling in. Creative Hype is where it’s at. Stay up my friends.

BY: HEADSHAKE

Giving the perfect gift shows people you care, but most importantly shows them how amazing you are at gift-giving! Oh, was that a tear of joy your friend/family member/significant other shed at that gift they just opened in the future? Yeah, that was all you.

Now let’s holiday shop ’til we drop all our money at some giftastic shops this weekend! Get something original, something local (no shipping!), and something that doesn’t require shopping carts and long checkout lines. Something très parfait. That would be perfect.



1. FROCK YOU VINTAGE | 4121 Park Blvd

2. SOLO | 309 Cedros Ave | Solana Beach

3. 5 & A DIME | 701 8th Ave

Get all the info and a photo tour of the shops after the jump!

1. FROCK YOU VINTAGE | 4121 Park Blvd

The Frock the Halls Edition of The Huge Frocking Sale starts this Friday, December 17th with a 3 hour special Holiday Shopping Party serving beer and wine. While plying you with alcohol, they will also provide you with an abundance of awesome wares to choose from. When they say “Huge” they really do mean huge. A large outdoor area is opened up outside the store, and will be filled with not only Frock You’s carefully hand-selected vintage collection (at surprisingly huge discounts), but also an array of local guest vendors showcasing even more vintage and handmade thingamabobs, such as reconstructed vintage apparel, jewelry, antlers and vegan candles (no eggs).

Sale kicks off  Friday from 5pm to 8pm, and goes through Saturday and Sunday from 11pm-5pm (rain or shine). Frock Yeah!

2. SOLO | 309 Cedros Ave | Solana Beach

Solo in Solana Beach is soooo worth the drive. It’s quite possibly – yes, I’ll just go ahead and say it – my favorite store. It has that je ne sais quoi that makes me lose track of time every time I enter the big door. Solo is actually a collective of eight women showcasing all that is upscale and fabulous, and I double dare you to NOT find a gift for someone here. Everywhere you look, there’s something to covet. Look! An amazing contraption made from pieced-together scientific instruments! Look! Original paintings with levers on the side that make things move! Look! Gigantic books with pictures that I must have! Look! The coolest wrapping paper and letterpress gift cards ever! Aghhhh and I clearly need that chandelier made of spoons! You get the idea. My only complaint about Solo has been that I wish they were open later. *Poof* – Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa wish granted! Solo will be open until 8 o’clock starting Friday, December 17th and running through the 23rd.

3. 5 & A DIME | 701 8th Ave

I mean, they have a Christmas Story window display. How can you not go in?  I’ll admit that even I’m barely cool enough to shop here. Luckily, they let me in anyway and were really nice about it. There’s a lot of humor in the concept of the store, as well as what you’ll find on the shelves – but it’s all seriously cool. 5&A Dime is stocked with new t-shirt designs, real wood-framed glasses, vinyl toys, must-have mustache jewelry (really anything mustache-related your heart could desire) as well as a brand new line of confectionary treats called Sweet Bricks that make great gifts and benefit a good cause.

by: Terrifique

Our favorite shopping event is back in town again for a special Holiday pop-up show!! Yippeeee skippppyyyyy!!!

Our  friends at Art Kills Artists will also be setting up a kitschy fun tacky sweater-themed photobooth so be sure to stop by and say hi after a few shots at the Smirnoff taste-testing station!

Be sure to RSVP for the THREAD show holiday pop-up and get to the event early: Not only will your RSVP get you in for a mere $5 but the first 250 in the door will receive a goody bag to start your shopping spree out on the right foot! Who doesn’t love goody bags?!?!

RSVP

More Information

See you there Threadsters ;)

BY: TD

In a city sprinkled with commercialism, finding that perfect independent coffee shop can be a little daunting. You want atmosphere, free Wi-Fi, excellent service, and of course – a delicious cup of Joe. While we aren’t exactly Seattle or San Francisco, we do have a few gems. Luckily for you, quite a few new establishments have popped up in our fair city, providing coffee lovers and Wi-Fi seekers options that do not involve that familiar circular, green logo.

Coffee Junkie: Ryan Bros Coffee

1894 Main St
San Diego, CA 92113
(619) 546-6314
5 min away from Downtown San Diego
Cafe and Roastery
Free Wi-Fi
Hours: Mon-Fri (5:30am-5:30pm) Sat (7:30am-4pm) Sun (9am-2pm)
[Downtown/Barrio Area]

Literally 5 minutes away from the Gaslamp, Ryan Bros Coffee in Barrio Logan is the spot for the ultimate coffee lover. With an extensive menu filled with blends, espressos, cocoas, and specialty drinks, Ryan Bros Coffee has a drink to fit whatever mood you are in. A popular drink for those on the go and in need of a chocolate fix is the Cafe Mocha with Mexican Cocoa (also available in European and White Night). Let me tell you, the aroma of the Cafe Mocha was absolutely delightful and I am happy it was the drink recommended to me.

Perhaps the most impressive thing about Ryan Bros Coffee is that it is not a mere coffee shop, but it is a true roastery. Think like a brewery, but for coffee. Situated towards the back of the building is where Ryan Bros roasts their own beans. Your coffee will always be fresh, and once they have your taste buds hooked, you can purchase those same beans for your own personal use. Best of all? All of their coffee is fair trade.

The building housing this coffee heaven is positively urban and spacious with its brick walls and beamed ceilings. Far from being a dingy warehouse in the Barrio, Ryan Bros Coffee is perfect for grabbing an early morning drink or stopping by for lunch. They do have free Wi-Fi for the laptop inclined, however it is not the spot for hours of study. It’s definitely more of a place to socialize with friends, family, and co-workers.

Tip: If you aren’t a coffee goer but your friends are, try one of their iced tea cocktails. I hear they are to die for!

Home Away from Home: Lestat’s on Park

4496 Park Blvd
San Diego, CA 92116
(619) 501-6638
7-10 min from downtown San Diego
Free Wi-Fi
Studious atmosphere
Hours: Soon to be 24hrs – keep checking back

Formerly known as that coffee bar in University Heights with the huge mural of a cleavage bearing chick, Cream Coffee Bar was bought out by Lestat’s and re-christened as Lestat’s on Park. The previous bleak cafeteria look of Cream has since been replaced with new wallpaper, comfy chairs, and dark wood furniture. The entire atmosphere has changed to that of a private study made for a cultured and savvy person in a smoking jacket.

Much of Cream’s menu remains the same with the addition of the ol’ Lestat’s spin, but it isn’t so much the coffee I enjoy most about this place. Aside from the atmosphere, the best feature of Lestat’s on Park is that it is laptop friendly. Not only is the middle portion of the shop sectioned off for those in search of quiet work time, the place is abundant in outlets. Power strips line the walls so that you are never at a loss for power.

Lestat’s on Park is open late, so those insomniac hours of study may be spent here. It is said that this location will also become a 24hr shop, just like the original Lestat’s in Normal Heights. For now Lestat’s on Park closes at midnight – so be sure to check back for complete hours.

Sweet Tooth Binge: Cafe Venti

4681 Convoy St
San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 279-8500
11-15 min from downtown San Diego
Meal portion of the menu served after 6pm. Waffles, yogurt, and shaved ice served all day.
Beer on tap and soju also available
Hours: Close at 11pm weekdays, call for complete hours

Cafe Venti, despite it’s Italian name, is not what you would expect it to be. Instead of Italian coffees, you are more likely to find the Asian variety of milk teas. Instead of parents seeking paninis for lunch, you’ll find people requesting the drool-worthy Waffle Yo. And instead of soothing acoustic tunes, you’ll both see and hear sugary sweet K-Pop music videos on the flat screen TVs set throughout the shop. Complete with doorbells on the tables to gain the attention of the waiters and waitresses, Cafe Venti is a K-Town experience away from K-Town.

If fixing your sweet tooth cravings is what you are after, Cafe Venti will be sweet to all five of your senses. As previously mentioned, the Waffle Yo is extremely popular – and it’s hard to deny it as the aroma wafts through out the shop as soon as it is ordered. A fresh waffle is prepared just for you, topped with a large helping of frozen yogurt, and surrounded by generous amounts of kiwi, strawberries, and pineapples. Finish off with one of their specialty lattes – Lava Latte (white chocolate, milk chocolate, and dark chocolate blend), Oreo Latte, or Green Tea Latte – and you’ll be hurting for the dentist! Cafe Venti is not exactly laptop friendly, but the plus side is that the wi-fi is protected and not hogged by nerds playing Starcraft or watching movies online (like many of the other coffee and tea shops within this area).

Tip: Request to sit at the Christmas lit patio (yes, year round) and you will be treated to a fresh Snuggie! Yes! They give you Snuggies to wear out on the patio!!!!

Also Try: Filter

1295 University Ave
San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 299-0145
Open 24 Hours

If you’ve been to Filter in North Park, you’re in for a treat at the new location right in the heart of Hillcrest. We have not visited this location yet, but there has been nothing but positive buzz about this new spot. Open 24hrs, Filter in Hillcrest is said to be a lot more spacious. You can practically see right through the coffee shop as it appears virtually “wall-less,” a plus for many of the day-goers who love natural light.

Influx

750 West Fir
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 255-0735
Hours: 6am-9pm Everyday
influxcafe.com
&
1948 Broadway
San Diego, CA
(619) 255-9470

Influx Cafe isn’t quite like your stereotypical “coffee house“: Owner Jason Twilla wanted the design of Influx’s second location to be reflective of term “Influx” itself: An all-encompassing “sphere; “spacey” with a sense of meaning; welcoming an overflow of positive energy and an abundance of light. Influx is located in Little Italy’s new, likely-to-become the social epicenter of the neighborhood, building, the Q - whose gorgeous and innovative design has Jonathan Segal to thank. Segal brought to life his own envisions of a building reflecting a perceptiveness and sensitivity to space, and a thoughtful sense of “openness”. Thus, Influx’s new locale couldn’t be more perfectly suited to Twilla’s own vision.

The space reflects a sense of order: Clean lines, great natural light, modern decor – no mismatched pillows nor knapsacks here. No matter where you sit at Influx,  you can see everything: Far and away from your usual dark, nook-y, and eclectic coffee joint. Yet despite their lack of “trying to be indie” efforts, Influx is relaxing and cozy in its own right: A cool breeze runs through the spot, whether you’re inside and out. Comfy cushioned booth or bench seating line nearly all walls. The outdoor seating is thoughtfully arranged and uncongested…
Read More

Missing your favorite? Feel like your venue should be added to the list?! Talk to us! Email us here.

By: Eileen

Voyeur
755 5th Ave.
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 756-7678
www.voyeursd.com
Yes, it’s that time again. Projekt 619 is back and better than ever!!!!!!

Our favorite boutique blowout sale is going down this Sunday, October 3rd, at Voyeur and as always, it’s going to absolutely tingle each and every one of your shopholic senses. I know you lust over those unique, sparkly baubles, lacy lovelies, and absolutely flaunt-worthy one-of-a-kind designs as much as I do. So go ahead and indulge without worrying about it costing you too many pretty pennies.

There’s NO COVER and THREE OLIVES will be sponsoring the event, so I’m positive you’ll have a good morning buzz to go along with those delightful deals you’ll be coming across all after noon long!

Here’s the rundown of the exhibitors:

• Mimi & Red
• Shopmoderne.com
• Agave Nectar Clothing
• Dolcetti Boutique
• Headcrazed Designs
• Morgan Jean Jewelry
• Cool Hip & Cheap Vintage Clothing
• Luco Salon
• Bacini Lingerie
• Merely Couture Clothing
• Five & A Dime Boutique
• Haven Boutique

I have no doubt that Projekt 619 will treat us to a lovely array of delicious deals, as it has never failed to provide me personally with an absolutely fabulous collection of finds, that I certainly cannot wait to add to this Sunday. Be sure to RSVP here so Three Olives knows how much vodka they will need to bring us thirsty fashionistas….

RSVP FOR Projekt 619 here!!!!!

By: TD

As a seasoned Threadster I feel obliged to tell you: This edition of THREAD show, was the best EVER.

The featured designers and exhibitors were so thoughtfully curated, the space felt far more open and vibrant, and even the selection of Men’s fashions was IMMENSELY better than it had been in years past. Even the newest addition to THREAD show, NOSH, turned out to be an enormous, and delicious success!

More photos and recaps after the jump!!

Although you would think that after all these years you think I would have learned my lesson: knowing full well that those sneaky Vodka-spiked, fruity-flavored mimosas concoctions have never failed to bring me swiftly to an obnoxious, giggly state. So needless to say, once again I went against all reason, and indulged: Allowing that no-good bubbly be my bad-decisions vessel throughout my shopping rounds.

Lured by sparkles and glimmers, I could actually feel my eyes quivering when I pointed my sights in the direction of For Love and Lemons and ShopModerne.com‘s side by side spaces. Hand-designed shimmery lovelies, stylish basics at taunting price points, flouncy colorful pretties, and complicated multi-finger rings. Umph. It’s not important to our purposes here to discuss the aftermath of that kryptonitical confrontation. I’d be on the cusp of post-Thread-credit-card-depression, if I didn’t look so fucking cute today.

Other visually tantalizing bits came from Liz Larios and Double Happiness, while my heart found its rightful home in a tucked away corner, occupied by the hand-screened creations by Sezio. You could actually feel the shift in space as jaws dropped as eyes set their lustful sights on Owlchemy Society‘s salacious selection of teeny bikini creations. The absolutely ahhhmazing line-up Owlchemy sent down the THREAD runway was so unbelievably chic and stunning; and was even a bit hipster — which we’re, unabashedly, all about.

The addition of an enormous artistic showcase by Art Kills Artists, that wrapped around the entirety of the somewhat secret hallway space, was absolutely astounding this year. Along with a live wheatpasting demonstration by AKA’s leader JFeather, that involved popping, dripping neontastic colors and pointillized Mr. T illustrations, standout pieces from Monty Montgomery’s bold colored & even some iridescent eye-catching bits to Kelli Murray’s lovely display of pristine paintings, it was an aesthetic touch that made for a memorable experience, aside from the inevitable spending spree…

Fashionistas and budget-minded epicureans alike saw eye-to-eye downstairs at NOSH: A THREAD first, NOSH was another successful element that worked well to round out the indie shopping experience with a lure for all savvy locavores. Although only four local eateries had the sensibility to set up culinary shop at NOSH, the selections from the tight-knit bunch were exceptional. Among my favorites were the generous and delicious heaping piles of fresh Ahi Poke from Voyeur, sweet & citrusy ceviche atop crispy tostadas at Sea Rocket Bistro, crumbly falafel goodness at Mama’s Bakery, and perfectly bite-sized Spicy Tuna rolls by Harney Sushi. It seemed no one shy-ed away from the $5 or less street fare challenge. Given San Diego’s inexperience in the street food trend, what I had expected to be sure disaster, the Negative in my Nancy fell victim to its arch-nemesis “Never say Never” that day… San Diego has once again surprised me; and delightfully at that!

There has been talks of possibly another THREAD show here in San Diego to go down just before the holidays; and I for one, am ALL for it!!!

THREAD show: Holiday 2010. Yes, please.

By: TD
Photos By Taylor Doms for TheMixster.com

WHAT | GS Cicleria, Vintage/Custom/Handmade Bicycles & Accessories
WHERE | Space 4 Art
SEE AT | Hosted cycling events, pop-up shops at art exhibitions, wheeling around town, more to come.

Tucked away in the Space 4 Art building in Barrio Logan is a bike studio. Do bikes really need a studio? They do when they’re works of art. I don’t know what kind of bike you’re riding, but in comparison, it probably doesn’t compare. It’s doubtful that it’s a meticulously refurbished vintage Italian steel bike, custom-built from the frame up and resting on a branded wooden stand, perfectly parallel to well-organized wall of tools and vintage ephemera in an art studio. Because if it is, you are obviously Gabriel Salcedo from GS Cicleria.

Maybe you saw his stuff over at Frock You Vintage last weekend, or recently at mercantile (pop-up shop) put on by Set & Drift a few weeks ago at The Bakery. Maybe you went to the Space Invader Alley Cat Afterparty hosted by GS Cicleria on Saturday. Maybe you’ve even seen Gabriel handling your art purchases at Subtext Gallery. He’s all over the place these days.

The soft-spoken Conceiver, Wizard, and Captain (thank you, Thesaurus) of GS Cicleria showed me around his own Créatif Space recently. The space where bikes are custom-built and restored. Not just any bikes, though. The focus is European. Classic. Vintage. Steel. The bikes speak for themselves, but a Terrifique description can’t hurt, either.

Read more and see pics from my tour of the space after the jump!

The word “meticulous” keeps coming to mind. It’s the best word for Gabriel Salcedo and his studio. Everything is in order, everything carefully chosen. “I guess it’s like rideable art,” he says of his bikes. Indeed.

He pointed out all the little details in his collection of restoration works-in-progress hanging on the wall. “The Italian culture is all about passion,” he says, alluding to said passion carrying over into the craftsmanship of a couple of particularly sweet-looking Italian bikes. The frames, the ornamentation, the painted details, the decals, the stories behind the frame builders. You don’t normally look at bicycles with romanticism, but you would if you were in Gabriel’s studio.

Handmade, custom, and special attention to detail are core principles in the GS Cicleria working philosophy. Contrary to his shy demeanor, Gabriel is a pretty ambitious guy, and he not only refurbishes bicycles (meticulously) but also designs vintage-inspired accessories (also very meticulously). There’s a table with fabric, a ruler, and a leather belt where he designs accessories meant to compliment the bikes. Vintage fabric, vintage belts – his designs are minimalist, thoughtful and classic; in keeping with everything else at GS Cicleria. He gets the bags produced in limited quantities to sell. “It’s a passion, I’m not just trying to make 10,000 bags in China to see how much money we can make.” Gabriel thinks smaller is better, and it seems to be working for him.

He’s also a collector of vintage furniture and ephemera (imagine that!) and so as to not end up on an episode of Hoarders, has recently started selling his goods with his newest venture, The Vintage Scout. He’s hoping to open up shop someday — merging all of his built, designed, and found pieces. “What do you think?” he asks me about his shop idea. What do I think? I think I’d shop there.

Anybody who cares this much about what they do, and does it with integrity (and skill) has got my business.

These bicycles-as-art are pretty to look at, but they’re also functional. “I ride all my bikes. I don’t feel like they should be hanging on the wall. Bikes are meant to be ridden.” Couldn’t have said it better myself.

By: Terrifique

As you may already know, the fantastical shopping and fashion event know as THREAD is this Sunday, September 26th. With several exhibitors, fashion shows and demonstrations, and even a new foodie element, it can all be overwhelming! You want to spend your extra dough on something, but what? So for you I provide a helpful guide of what to look out for at THREAD!

Designers:
You’ve already seen some of our top choices in our last THREAD post, but here are a couple more that need a little light shed upon them.

Nifty Curly
THREAD encourages eco-responsibility and Nifty Curly is a perfect example of this. Their handmade accessories are made from recycled materials and scraps from clothing and furniture manufactures. Their designs are absolutely perfect for the whimsical at heart: eye-popping colors w/a dash of vintage feel.

More insider tips, trend watch bits and more of our favs after the jump!

ARKA Clothing
I often see men dragged into THREAD by their girlfriends, unsure of what they are doing at a pop-up mall event. Men: THREAD is not just for the ladies! One notable clothing line that caters to men is ARKA Clothing. Their screen printed tees go beyond the normal cheesy slogans and those horrible tattoo design shirts we all unfortunately still see floating around. Breathe color into your life and try out one of their cleverly named and designed shirts.

Trends:
Staples in your wardrobe are necessary, but what makes shopping and dressing-up fun are trends - and these three sassy trends are ones that you will want to be on the look out for.

Jeggings
I know, they have the dumbest name ever, however they are the much talked about trend of the season. In attempt to make skinny jeans even skinnier, designers have finally clicked it in their head that they could just make leggings that look like jeans – hence,  jeggings. If you’re like me and hate the idea of pants – get yourself a pair of jeggings. They can be worn dressed-up or down and come in a variety of styles. Be unique and search for a pair that stand out from the rest, but remember! Jeggings are still not pants! I’d be very careful when choosing what tops and skivvies to wear with your tight new pair – just a warning!

Top Handled and Structured Purses
Maybe it’s the idea of letting go of your bohemian island dreams and returning to the real world, but there is no doubt about it — the slouch is out and structure is in. I’m not saying you should ditch your boho ways, but there are some adorable top handled and structured purses that can be easily transitioned into your wardrobe without looking too preppy. Top handled purses also come in smaller sizes, so you can even take them to the club with you.

Animal Inspired Clothing
From exotic skins to fur – Fall runways were boasting of the animal kingdom. You don’t have to skin an animal for the sake of a trend, so look for all things faux if you can (I know some of you can’t part with leather just yet). Search for faux fur trimmed accessories or go full out in coat or vest. If reptile is more your thing, look for accessories that resemble great gators and pythons. Leopard print seems to have also made it’s way back, but I say kick it up a funky notch and go with tiger or zebra stripes.

Final Tips:
I love looking for unique items to purchase at THREAD, but one of the great things is that many items have been priced marked to a point where you can’t say no. If trends aren’t your thing or you just can’t find that statement piece for you – stock up on basics. They’re great for layering and never go out of style. Be on the look out for my personal fave, Alternative Apparel. There are always bins of their super soft shirts and tanks going for cheap and the quality is fantastic. I might go so far as to say they are better than a certain brand with a similar name…

EXCLUSIVE MIX TIP: We had the amazing opportunity to stop by the Double Happiness Jewelry headquarters yesterday, to pick up gorgeous baubles for our LIVE photo shoot during our PRE-THREAD PARTY at one of our favorite Downtown spots, the ever-whimsical Vin De Syrah – and we o, just happened to stumble upon bags upon BAGS of gorgeous jewels and cuffs ALL PRICED BELOW $10 that will be making their thrifty debut at THREAD this Sunday!!!
O M G. There will be SO MUCH ahhhhhhhhhmazing AND affordable sparkly loveliness via Double Happiness Jewelry that will be only available *EXCLUSIVELY* to those fab THREADsters!!! (<– love that I just thought of this now!!!)

GET TO THREAD EARLY – Trust me, I know I won’t be the only one risin’ & shinin’ early and upon the doors opening, absolutely assaulting the inventories of these poor, unsuspecting exhibitors.

SO excited (quivers).

RSVP here to get in for only $5

By: Eileen