l'etoile magazine blog

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Weekend What's What 4/23-4/28

FASHIONAPOLIS, MN

With MNFashion Week in full swing, we've been running around like crazy people -- the mood is simply infectious! We're ridiculously proud to share an area code with so many talented artists, designers, and make-things-happeners. The past week has been surprising and inspiring and it's not even close to over! Amid our usual slew of awesome events this weekend, you'll find a number of Fashion Week funnings that you'll need to see to believe. So dress cleverly, dear readers, the local paparazzi are out in full force!

Bonus: For even more Fashion Week events, refer to our handy-dandy guide HERE!

xo-l'étoile

Photo by Eric Eul for l'étoile

THURSDAY APRIL 23RD

Salon Series 3

@ Minneapolis Photo Center
2400 2nd St. N
Minneapolis

7-10pm / Free

In Vita.mn's latest installment of Salon Series, local performers transfer from the stage to a venue a bit more uncommon for an informal -yet still stunning- version of their work. Tonight, the Minnesota Dance Theatre presents a free performance chock-full fancy footwork, documented by the MPLS Photo Center to be debuted an exhibit later this summer. Enjoy complimentary appetizers while you witness first-hand a show as visually professional as a formal production, but with the intimacy of a private rehearsal. RSVP at promo@vita.mn, appreciated but not necessary.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VITA.MN SITE

THURSDAY APRIL 23RD

Subterranean Twin Cities

@ Magers and Quinn
3038 Hennepin Ave S
Minneapolis

7:30pm / Free

There is an entire underworld of the Twin Cities that remains a deep, dark mystery. Beneath our roads and houses lies a different world; one of caves, tunnels and labyrinths. Author, historian and urban cave-lover Greg Brick discusses his underground forays tonight, with tales of sunken treasure, geology and exploration. Mystery revealed!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MAGERS & QUINN SITE

VOLTAGE FASHION PICK: IVAN IDLAND

Another designer holding us on the edge of our fashion-conscious seats is Ivan Idland. If you've ever witnessed the style of Idland in person, it's obvious where his creative palate draws inspiration from. With an adorably quirky style and love of unique, abstract and often asymmetrical design patterns, Idland's work is a vivid display of inventive fabrics and bold graphics. Architectural lines create overall comfy and unique apparel, not to mention, Idland dares to go where many local designers don't – men's wear. Last year, Idland took part in Voltage as stylist for the local band Zibra Zibra and returns this year as a runway designer. Like fellow Voltage 2009 designer, Maritza Ramirez, Idland recently previewed his Spring line during Cliche's Avoid the Grey runway show, where his garments patterned with geometrical shapes were met with excitement and crowd approval – a response we expect will be duplicated Friday.

If you haven't got yours already, Voltage tix are going fast, so step to it!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VOLTAGE SITE
Photo of Ivan Idland by Nicholas Marshall for Voltage

FRIDAY APRIL 24TH (WEEKENDS THROUGH MAY 3RD)

God's Ear

@ Red Eye Theater
15 W. 14th St.
Minneapolis

8pm / $8-18

If the Red Eye's latest production from writer Jenny Schwartz, God's Ear, seems nonsensical, it is -- and for good reason. Following a family coping with the tragic loss of a child to drowning, God's Ear uses unconventional language (from spoken to written word) to interpret the reeling emotions that proceed the death of a loved one. Fragments, repetition and overlapping dialogue from the three main characters – the mother, father and daughter - create a show with virtually no silence that parallels the stages of grief and internal restlessness in each family member. Don't miss this compelling and provocative performance which runs through May 3rd.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE RED EYE SITE
Photo by Liz Josheff/Star Tribune

FRIDAY APRIL 24TH

Voltage: Fashion Amplified 2009

@ First Ave
701 1st Ave. N
Minneapolis

8pm / 21+/ $25 Advance, $30 At the Door

The crown jewel of Spring FashionWeek, tonight's showcase of talented locals mixes fashion, music and style, making Voltage: Fashion Amplified worth

way, a night of local art is the perfect complement to runway extravaganzas and chic fashion mixers. The 350 artists involved in this Spring's open studio crawl invite you to browse, mingle, buy, and just plain enjoy this local art medley. Check out www.artcrawl.org for more info and a complete schedule.

Stop in to these fun Art Crawl fashion destinations:

EJA Bonne Chance & Katherine Tilton Art
Hamm Brewery, Everest Center, 713 Minnehaha Avenue, St. Paul

Angie's Hats
Northern Warehouse, 308 Prince Street, #610, St. Paul

Carly Stipe
Lowertown Commons, 300 E. 4th Street, St. Paul

Jenny Carle Designs
Northwestern Building, 275 E. 4th Street, #425, St. Paul

FRIDAY APRIL 24TH

The Dollhouse

@ The View
2730 W Lake St.
Minneapolis

9:30pm / $8

Now that Pi Bar is no more, where do all the hot ladies go to find each other? The View hosts a lesbian lounge night reminiscent of the 1940’s pinup girl era, complete with live entertainment. Every last Friday we can look forward to specials on apps and drinks, dancing and DJs. This week Lil Miss Sweet Tooth and the Daisy Dukes treat.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE DOLLHOUSE MYSPACE

FRIDAY APRIL 24TH

Walker After Hours: The Quick and the Dead

@ Walker Art Center
1750 Hennepin Ave
Minneapolis

9pm / $35 ($25 Walker Members)

Hordes of artsters, hipsters, and fashionistas will flock to the Walker tonight to preview the latest exhibition before anyone else! The exhibit, entitled The Quick and the Dead, explores new ways of thinking about time, space, and mortality through the works of 53 international artists in varying mediums. Tonight's edition of Walker After Hours features the usual tasty appetizers and cocktails, along with short film screenings, art projects for grownups, the ever-popular Party People Pictures, and live music by noise rockers To Kill a Petty Bourgeoisie. And if you’re feeling especially mischievous, bring your date down to the Sky Pesher for some starry-eyed smooching!

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

FRIDAY APRIL 24TH

Rift Anniversary Show

@ Hexagon
2600 27th Ave S
Minneapolis

9pm / 21+ / Free

Has it already been five years since the first Rift Magazine hit the stands? 25 printed issues later, Rift has been a valuable staple for local music and arts coverage, and the longest running zine of its kind in the Twin Cities. Head over to the Hexagon Bar this Friday to help Rift celebrate their anniversary (and its founder, our friend Rich Horton’s birthday!) with sets by Aviette, Mighty Fairly, Avenpitch, and Virtual CH. And as always, buying drinks on the stage side of the bar supports the cause!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE RIFT SITE

FRIDAY APRIL 24TH

Bomp! 3.0

@ Bedlam Theater
1501 S. 6th St.
Minneapolis

10pm / 18+ / $5

On the final Friday of the month, Bomp! continues to be the finest and most supreme dance party our fair city has to offer, and has proven month after month to be the place to see and be seen on the nightlife circuit. Pooling together a crew of unstoppable musical forces including Winship, Shannon Blowtorch, MoonGoons, City Pages "Best of" winner Jimmy 2 Times (congrats!) and more, Bomp is bound to make your body move, shake, and sweat the night away. And of course your faithful host Wes Winship will be holding it down on the decks as well as snapping photos of the proceedings.

Sponsored, of course, by l’étoile -- because you know how we do!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT

FRIDAY APRIL 24TH

Particle People 1 Year Anniversary

@ Gallery 13
811 Lasalle Avenue
Downtown Mpls

10 p.m. to 4 a.m.

While this is not an "official" Fashion Week event, our homies over at Particle People are offering an admission discount to their all-night dance jam if you show your Voltage ticket stub or crew pass. Particle People put on BLACK in the VIP Room every Saturday, and they are pulling out all the stops for this anniversary secret location party. Expect some ear-drum bleeding bass and intense dancing, featuring Oliver Ho, Ghetto, Aaron Bliss, and Jesse Jakob. This space is a big, awesome art gallery in the heart of Downtown (definitely within walking distance of First Ave -- even in heels!) and it's going to be SWEET.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE PARTICLE PEOPLE SITE

COOL LINK: UNBELIEVABLE

A new book about the Parapsychology Laboratory at Duke University is out entitled (deep breath) Unbelievable: Investigations into Ghosts, Poltergeists, Telepathy, and other Unseen Phenomena, from The Duke Parapsychology Laboratory. Author Stacy Horn has a blog that goes along with it, each day posting otherworldly stories and information. All the ghost stories, ectoplasm sightings, exorcisms and encounters with the dead you’ve ever needed!

Click HERE for the Unbelievable blog!

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

ROX Open House

@ Rox Studio and Boutique
California Arts Building
2205 California Street NE
Studio #403
Northeast Minneapolis

Noon to 4 p.m. / Free

It’s a busy time for ROX designer Robyne Robinson. Hot off the Buy/Collect exhibition she recently co-curated with Yuri Arajs, Robinson trades in her art

patron hat for that of a jewelry designer (just a couple of the “hats” she’s known for wearing). The bold, cuff-like bracelets Robinson has created to accompany Maritza Ramirez’s collection for Voltage are a bit of a departure from the organic, earthy arrangements that Rox is known for. Made from vintage brooches and charms, these wistful new additions will be on display (and for sale) at Robinson’s Northeast studio and boutique in the California Building, the day after Voltage. Go check it out!

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

I like you Re-Opening

@ I Like You
501 1st Ave NE
Minneapolis

11am-8pm / Free

Thank god I like you is opening again. Gift shopping has been hard the past few months without this awesome store that hawks independent artists' goods. Where else can we find handmade soaps, cool journals and sparkly artist-designed barettes all in one shot? Check out the new digs, snack on treats after 4pm, and ravage their inventory -- we know you can’t help yourself, and we don’t blame you.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE I LIKE YOU SITE

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

Cliché Open House

@ Cliché
2403 Lyndale Avenue S.
Uptown Minneapolis

11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

If you're not already a regular customer at this darling Uptown design boutique, consider Fashion Week a reason to introduce yourself! Home to such local designers

as Laura Fulk, Anthem Heart, Kjurek Couture and more, plus Voltage 2009 designers Amanda Christine, Arwyn Birch, and Ivan Idland. Shop throughout the day, or show up between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. for a more sociable experience during Cliche's reception for the designers, which will feature live models and a DJ.

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

Gray Matter: A Grayline Release Party

@ Design Collective
1311 W. 26th Street
Minneapolis

3 p.m. to 7 p.m. / Free

Make it a point to stop into Design Collective today to get an up close and personal look at Greyline Clothing's latest creations.

Featuring stylish men's and women's screen-printed pieces inspired by "nature, patterns, early 1900's art nouveau, and childhood fascinations." And who can argue with that? Be sure to check out Greyline's limited edition men's wear collection designed for the band Mercurial Rage for Voltage: Fashion Amplified. Refreshments and conversation with the designers will be served up with a smile as well.

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

We Don't Do Clever

@ First Amendment Gallery
1101 Stinson Blvd
Basement Rooms A & B
Minneapolis

7-10pm / Free

You know those kids in high school that couldn't help but be uncool no matter what they did? Well, the artists in First Amendment's new gallery exhibit have the opposite problem -- they are effortlessly cool by nature. Local artists and long time fans of each other, Jake Keeler and Jennifer Davis, have banded together in an exhibit of creative matrimony with We Don't Do Clever. Combining vivid colors, eye-catching surrealism, a love of nature and a nod to anthropomorphism, Davis and Keeler's unique painting styles are at times complementary and other times celebrate the differences and respective ranges of their individual work. Also on the docket are rockers The Book of Right On, debuting their bombastic pop sound, as well as First Amendment resident DJs Wes Winship and Mike the 2600 King. Enjoy home-brewed beer as you view art and groove to the tunes. Be sure to bring your irony.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

Punk Rock Prom IV

@ Nomad World Pub
501 Cedar Ave S
Minneapolis

8pm / $6

So maybe your first prom didn’t go so well -- you got in a fight with your best friend, your date left with another person, and you realized that you hate the color fuchsia. Tonight, plenty of bands and free-flowin' tequila (because now you're "of age") will help you to erase all previous prom problems. MN Rollergirls will be on hand to get the party going; A Paper Cup Band, MC/VL, Bouncer Fighter and The Fillmores keep you hopping; and a prom king and queen contest will foster some friendly competition. Wear your gowns and tuxes (embellished with spikes of course), and channel Rock n' Roll Highschool!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE NOMAD SITE

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

Androgyny Kings and St Paul Aerie for the Arts

@ Eagles Club
287 Maria Ave
St. Paul

9pm-Midnight / $5 donation / 18+

Drag and burlesque performers pitch in tonight for a benefit for Multiple Sclerosis. Enjoy a silent auction, special musical guests, munchables, and the sultry moves of Sarah Holiday, Johnny Sugar and a grip of sassy drag kings. Hosted by the art-party throwers of St. Paul Aerie Arts and the Androgyny Kings, tonight's entertaining festivities will be nothing short of stellar.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

Russell Bourrienne Runway Show

Calhoun Building
711 W. Lake Street
Minneapolis

7pm-11pm / Free

Russell Bourrienne takes big risks in his design work, and that's what we love about him. His exceptionally well-made

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

Daughters of the Sun CD Release

@ Hexagon
2600 27th Ave S
Minneapolis

9pm / 21+ / Free

The eagerly anticipated album by local psych-freakout experts, Daughters of the Sun, is dropping this Saturday night over at your favorite neighborhood dive, the Hexagon bar. The things that this shamefully press-starved band can do with percussion, melody, and drone is wholly spellbinding - a kaleidoscope of rhythmic texture so totally addictive it should come with a warning label. Supported by Modern Radio label mates Vampire Hands, who’s Chris Beirden was just awarded Best Male Vocalist by the City Pages (duh!). At a cost of Free, this one’s a no brainier.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE DAUGHTERS OF THE SUN MYSPACE
Art by Josh Journey-Heinz

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

Attitude City

@ Clubhouse Jager
923 Washington Ave N
Minneapolis

10pm / 21+ / Free

Those Attitude City boys seriously sweatify clubs and bars on the regular with their unmatched collection of dusty old dance gems, and their ability to read any crowd and mix music styles on the fly keeps partiers in a suspenseful fury of dance fever. Their monthly Saturday night throwdown at Jager promises wild times galore.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE ATTITUDE CITY SITE

VOLTAGE MUSIC PICK: LUCY MICHELLE & THE VELVET LAPELLES

It’s been quite a year for local darling Lucy Michelle and her sassy sextet the Velvet Lapelles: heaps of glowing press, national tours, and now a coveted spot on the Voltage line up -- and for good reason. Who can resist the infectious joy of deconstructed standard sounds using Ukulele, accordion, stand-up bass and other unique instrumentation? Offering a snappy take on warm, vintage sounds that will nicely round out the rockin' Voltage bill, these kids will put you in a time machine to the days of old with music that recalls early folk, Americana and a touch of polka (yes polka!) set to modern times.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VOLTAGE SITE
Photo by Nicholas Marshall for Voltage

SUNDAY APRIL 26TH

Ruby3 Fashion Ride

@ Meet in Parking lot of ROBOTlove
2648 Lyndale Avenue S.
Uptown Mpls

1pm-4pm / Free

With more and more Minneapolitans opting for bikes over cars, there’s never been a better time to look stylish while cycling. The annual MNfashion Week bike ride

organized by Ruby3 designer (and Voltage producer) Anna Lee provides the perfect excuse to finally pluck your beach cruiser out of storage and don your cutest bike-friendly outfit. Don’t have a cute bike-friendly outfit? Stop by Design Collective to check out the Voltage collection from design duo 2709. The ingenious line was created for the bicyclist who desires both fashion and function.

SUNDAY APRIL 26TH

White Knight

@ Nick & Eddie
1612 Harmon Place
Minneapolis

8 p.m. to Close

Not an official event of Fashion Week, but has iconic Minneapolis artist Scott Seekins ever done things the conventional way? We think not. Head to Loring Park favorite Nick and Eddie to witness the official "changing of suits" when Seekins makes his seasonal transition from black suit to white suit. A recognizable character that you've no doubt met roaming the streets of the Twin Cities, or at any given art opening, Seekins switches up his signature style only twice a year; an all-white suit in the warm months, an all-black one for the chilly months. This evening celebrates Seekins in all his quirky glory, with drinks, tunes, and of course, "the artist" himself. Wear all white and receive a FREE drink; dress up like Seekins you may just win a dinner for two at Nick and Eddie PLUS a limited edition Seekins art print!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT

SUNDAY APRIL 26TH

The Unconvention Movie Premiere

@ St. Anthony Main
115 SE Main Street
Minneapolis

Screening at 5 p.m.

Local filmmaker and producer Chris Strouth debuts his documentary film, The Unconvention, tonight at St. Anthony Main as part of the MSP International Film Fest. Using a collection of footage gathered from numerous journalists and citizens, The Unconvention breaks down the intense four-day fiasco that was the 2008 Republican National Convention -- as told from the ground level. See harrowing escapes (and arrests) from protest frontlines; interviews with politicians, conventioneers, and radicals; and civil liberty being both challenged and revered. A conglomeration of media makes up this inspiring (and sometimes disturbing) doc, with footage shot in everything from HD video to cell phone cameras. The Unconvention captures a historic moment of political unrest, pre-election, that you've got to see to believe.

Click HERE for the Facebook event!

TUESDAY APRIL 28TH

JagerCon: Sci-Fi Tuesdays

@ Clubhouse Jager
923 Washington Avenue N.
Minneapolis

Every Tuesday
10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows such as Buffy, Firefly, V, Star Trek, Blade Runner, Forbidden Planet and more -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!

Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.

Kate and Beth are life-long sci-fi fans who also dabble in art and fashion. They appreciate Joss Whedon, Karl Lagerfeld, and Matthew Barney on the same level. They can also party like Sci-Fi Conventioneers. Kate and Beth strive to unite the segmented nerd culture of the Twin Cities the only way they know how: with alcohol and awesome Sci-Fi entertainment.

Upcoming Events:

Tuesday, April 28th: Dark City
Tuesday, May 5th: Doctor Who & The Daleks (1966)
Tuesday, May 12th: Evil Dead II
Tuesday, May 19th: Aliens Double Header
Tuesday, May 26th: Zardoz

For more info visit www.jagercon.blogspot.com

THIS WEEK'S FLICK IS "DARK CITY"

GUEST BLOGGER: A TINY MACHINE

a delicious spring thing

This commercial for Flora by Gucci is perhaps the most gorgeous fragrance ad I've ever seen. The video was directed by the crazy brilliant Chris Cunningham, and features a new recording of Donna Summers' "I Feel Love" and over 20,000 fake flowers. And is that Natalie Portman doing the voiceover work at the end?

GUEST BLOGGER: LE PETIT CONNAISSEUR

Jahna Peloquin shows off some awesome pix she art directed from this week's issue of Vita.mn - on stands TODAY!

Check my story on Voltage coming full circle in this week's issue of Vita.mn. Lucy Michelle & the Velvet Lapelles on the cover of Vita.mn, dressed in Max Lohrbach with Ferociter accessories.

CLICK THE IMAGE TO READ THE FULL POST & MORE PICS
Photo by Carlos Gonzalez for Vita.mn/Styling by Eclecticoiffeur

What's What Editor: Kate Iverson
Contributing Writers: Lacey Prpic Hedtke, Robyn Lewis, Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson, Beth Hammarlund, Jahna Peloquin

CONTENT © L'ETOILE MAGAZINE 2009

Monday, April 20, 2009

MNFashion Week Spectacular!

MONDAY APRIL 20TH

Twin City Scene Mixer w/ Arwyn Birch

@ Urban Bean Coffee
3255 Bryant Avenue South
Uptown Minneapolis

5-7pm / All Ages / Free

Kick off your week with a little caffeine and couture at the Twin City Scene Mixer at Urban Bean

Coffee in Uptown. With music by l’étoile’s own Juleana Enright a.k.a. DJ Julie Grind, wine and beer thanks to local bloggers www.TwinCityScene.com, plus yummy treats and caffeinated bevies, this is the perfect opportunity to brush up on your hobnobbing skills for the week ahead. Voltage designer Arwyn Birch will be on hand to rub elbows with the crowd, and will showcase some pieces from her latest collection!

MONDAY APRIL 20TH

Textile Center Workshop

@ Textile Center
3000 University Avenue
Northeast Minneapolis

7-9pm / All Ages / $30 Course Fee

Zeus Jones bigwig Christian Erickson instructs this invaluable workshop that addresses marketing and promotion on the

web. Learn how to make most of the free online opportunities available to further your brand or just help you get your foot in the door. The Textile Center Workshops are often the unsung highlights of MN Fashion Week, so take advantage of a great opportunity to expand your virtual horizons and bend the ear of an expert.

TUESDAY APRIL 21ST

Suffocate

@ The Lab Theater
700 First Street North
The North Loop

Reception 6:30-7:30 / Runway Show at 8 / All Ages / $15

Twin Cities fashion designer Laura Fulk's first solo show is an event not to be missed. Known for her architectural

constructions that act as both social commentary and conceptual art, this three-time Voltage alum and award winning designer brings together multiple mediums in one seamless show (no pun intended). Tattoo artist Jay Langer and painter Melissi Breitenfeldt have provided imagery to be digitally printed on Fulk's eco-friendly garments, further blurring the line between art and fashion. Produced by the thoughtful minds and curators behind local website www.mplsart.com, Suffocate is sure to be a high-concept, fantastical affair. Visit the Lab Theater site for tickets!

TUESDAY APRIL 21ST

Extend Goodwill

@ Goodwill / Easter Seals Corporate Office
553 Fairview Avenue North
Saint Paul

6:30 - 8:30 / To volunteer, call Rebecca at 651-379-5937

Put on your do-gooding cap and expand your sewing skills at Extend Goodwill. By re-purposing used clothing into cute tote bags and aprons, Extend Goodwill is able to raise revenue for their self-sufficiency programs in an engaging and eco-friendly way. If you've never really found your knack with a needle and thread, this is a great environment to flex your creative muscles and build up that sewing callous. Or you could just, you know, bring a thimble.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 22ND

“The Walk”- Red Shoe Clothing, Co.

@ Cliché
2403 Lyndale Ave. S.
Minneapolis

2-10pm / Free

There's nothing like a band of fashionistas and style gurus promenading the streets and bridges of MPLS to get you in the mood for fashion week. This afternoon, with

Spring in her step, Kerry Riley – owner of the local brand Red Shoe Clothing, Co. - leads “The Walk,” a fashion event promoting Red Shoe and galvanizing the spirits of the fashion conscious. After 7 p.m., follow the gang down to Cliché for a post-walk reception to rest your doggies and party. And if we know Cliché receptions, you can expect tuneage, cocktails and mixture of all the right folks. Stay fixed to www.redshoeclothing.com for locales and times of the march.

Bonus: Hit “The Walk” then head over to the Eitel Building for the l’etoile/Secrets of the City party from 7-9pm (deetz below) – you’ll still have time to catch the tail end of the Cliché reception if you’re organized, and we know you are!

WEDNESDAY APRIL 22ND

Sky Park Fashion Mixer

@ Eitel Building City Apartments
1367 Willow St.
Minneapolis

7-9pm / Free

The fashion-forward chicas of l'étoile magazine and Secrets of the City have

been your stylish sages and the authority on quirky and cool weekly events since their web launches. So for tonight's mixer, expect nothing less than a shindig of the same fabulous caliber! Head to the gorgeous Eitel Building City Apartment’s Sky Park and Clubhouse to mingle with style-minded locals and ladies from l’étoile, Secrets of the City, and The Fashion Group International. Snack on complimentary treats from Joe's Garage and sip drinks provided by Sacre Bleu wine and Crispin on Ice. While you’re there, enter to win a pair of tix to the most talked-about event of MNfashion Week, Voltage: Fashion Amplified.

THURSDAY APRIL 23RD

Via's Vintage Sale

@ Via's Vintage
2408 Hennepin Ave. S.
Minneapolis

11am-7pm / Free

Stressing about what to wear to Voltage? Calm your inner stylist nerves and head down to Via's Vintage where you're sure

find that one-of-kind piece that perfectly pulls together your ensemble. Via's will be celebrating the remodeling of their new space with 10% off all store items. With an updated inventory - including the reproduction of a 50's Vivien of Holloway halter dress, revamped and recycled accessories from Vintage City Classics, and the Spring line from Reevolution. Get there early to receive a limited edition, screen-printed canvas tote with your purchase, so you can carry your goodies out in style. After the picking frenzy, enjoy a reception from 5-7pm with designers Sarah Holm of Reevolution and Holly Luke and Jen Des Lauriers from Vintage City Classics.

THURSDAY APRIL 23RD

Yelp and MNfashion Clothing Swap

@ Textile Center
3000 University Ave. S.E.
Minneapolis

7-9pm / Donations Welcome

Here at l'étoile, we suggest your Spring cleaning start in the most important room

of your house – your closet, of course! What better way to make room for a new Spring wardrobe than at this mass clothing swap, sponsored by Yelp.com and MNFashion, where one fashionista's forgotten frock is another's coveted treasure. The best part: a new-to-you garment won't break the bank! Talk about recession-proof. Bring along at least three clothing items (yes, accessories and shoes count) clean, gently used and rip-free, and start sharing your style with the world -- or at least MPLS.

FRIDAY APRIL 24TH (THROUGH SATURDAY)

St. Paul Art Crawl

@ Various Locations
Lowertown St. Paul

6-10pm Friday, Noon to 8pm on Saturday and Noon to 5pm on Sunday / Free

MNfashion Week and the St. Paul Art Crawl all in one week? Yes, it could seem overwhelming. But done in the right

way, a night of local art is the perfect complement to runway extravaganzas and chic fashion mixers. The 350 artists involved in this Spring's open studio crawl invite you to browse, mingle, buy, and just plain enjoy this local art medley. Check out www.artcrawl.org for more info and a complete schedule.

Stop in to these fun Art Crawl fashion destinations:

EJA Bonne Chance & Katherine Tilton Art
Hamm Brewery, Everest Center, 713 Minnehaha Avenue, St. Paul

Angie's Hats
Northern Warehouse, 308 Prince Street, #610, St. Paul

Carly Stipe
Lowertown Commons, 300 E. 4th Street, St. Paul

Jenny Carle Designs
Northwestern Building, 275 E. 4th Street, #425, St. Paul

FRIDAY APRIL 24TH

Voltage: Fashion Amplified 2009

@ First Ave
701 1st Ave. N
Minneapolis

8 PM/ 21+/ $25 Advance, $30 At the Door

The crown jewel of Spring FashionWeek, tonight's showcase of talented locals mixes fashion, music and style, making Voltage: Fashion Amplified worth

every hyped-over minute. Featuring the bands Maria Isa, Lucy Michelle & The Velvet Lapelles, Gospel Gossip, First Communion Afterparty, Mercurial Rage wearing outfits styled by Grayline, Jenny Carle Designs, Emily Melchert, Jodelle Gerdes, and Standard Issue Clothing with Branch Office Design; and the fabulous Spring lines of runway designers 2709, Allison Quinnell, Amanda Christine, Arwyn Birch, Calpurnia Peach, Carmichael Claith, Emily Weich, Ivan Idland, Maritza Ramirez, and Max Lohrbach. Voltage entry price not only gets you in to the hottest fashion party in town, but snags your copy of the 2009 Look Book, a MP3 Download Card of the Voltage 2009 Complilation CD, and access to the after party in the mainroom. Grab your tickets quick because this event may very well sell out, if past years are any indicator!

Voltage: Fashion Amplified is co-sponsored by l'etoile magazine!

FRIDAY APRIL 24TH

Particle People 1 Year Anniversary

@ Secret Location
Visit www.particlepeoplempls.com day of for location

10 p.m. to 4 a.m.

While this is not an "official" Fashion Week event, our homies over at Particle People are offering an admission discount to their all-night dance jam if you show your Voltage ticket stub or crew pass. Particle People put on BLACK in the VIP Room every Saturday, and they are pulling out all the stops for this anniversary secret location party. Expect some ear-drum bleeding bass and intense dancing, featuring Oliver Ho, Ghetto, Aaron Bliss, and Jesse Jakob. We know where the "secret location" is (it's within easy walking distance of 1st Ave) and it's going to be SWEET.

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

ROX Open House

@ Rox Studio and Boutique
California Arts Building
2205 California Street NE
Studio #403
Northeast Minneapolis

Noon to 4 p.m. / Free

It’s a busy time for ROX designer Robyne Robinson. Hot off the Buy/Collect exhibition she recently co-curated with Yuri Arajs, Robinson trades in her art

patron hat for that of a jewelry designer (just a couple of the “hats” she’s known for wearing). The bold, cuff-like bracelets Robinson has created to accompany Maritza Ramirez’s collection for Voltage are a bit of a departure from the organic, earthy arrangements that Rox is known for. Made from vintage brooches and charms, these wistful new additions will be on display (and for sale) at Robinson’s Northeast studio and boutique in the California Building, the day after Voltage. Go check it out!

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

Hale Bob Trunk Show

@ Il Vostro Boutique
5045 France Avenue
Edina

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. / Free

Pop out to 50th & France for a lunch with your ladies, and a peep into Il Vostro Boutique's trunk show for Los Angeles Designer, Hale Bob. Hale Bob's clothing has been spotted on such stars as Eva Longoria, Halle Berry, Paris Hilton, Cameron Diaz, Britney Spears, Sharon Stone and Heidi Klum. Sip refreshing refreshments, search the store, and even pick up a FREE Hale Bob Velour Jogset (worth over $100) with any Hale Bob purchase.

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

Cliché Open House

@ Cliché
2403 Lyndale Avenue S.
Uptown Minneapolis

11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

If you're not already a regular customer at this darling Uptown design boutique, consider Fashion Week a reason to introduce yourself! Home to such local designers

refuse to let sippy cups and baby bjorns cramp their style, the pair creates their line with a bit of whimsy; bold patterns and bright color combinations accented with suedes, velvets and jacquard ribbon are delightfully rampant throughout the collection. While you're at it, check out Hot Mama's stylin' selection of designer maternity clothes and accessories. Tonight's reception will include 15% off everything in the store, plus wine and desserts!

SATURDAY APRIL 25TH

Russell Bourrienne Runway Show

Calhoun Building
711 W. Lake Street
Minneapolis

7pm-11pm / Free

Russell Bourrienne takes big risks in his design work, and that's what we love about him. His exceptionally well-made

garments walk the line of classic and ridiculous, with an unapologetic use of bold patterns and materials such as plaid, fur and colored leather -- with a little pirate sleeve thrown in for good measure. Tonight Russell will debut his spring/summer collection, which we know will be as interesting and original as his last. Pre-show at 7 p.m. with runway presentation at 8 p.m., followed by a wine reception. For guaranteed seating contact russell@russellbourrienne.com

SUNDAY APRIL 26TH

Foat Design Trunk Show

@ Foat Design Studio
1828 Marshall Street NE
Minneapolis

11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. / Free

Yoga babes (and twin sistas) Kaja and Zoe Foat have been a fixture in the TC design scene for quite sometime. Creating stylish yoga clothing (that we think looks good even outside the studio) plus a daring couture line and custom wedding dresses, the Foat girls definitely have their hands full. Get a peek at their Spring line before it hits the boutiques, learn about how Foat stays eco-friendly, and pick up something sassy to wear to Yoga or one of their slinky numbers for an evening out on the town.

SUNDAY APRIL 26TH

Cliché VIP Local Designer Salon

@ Cliché
2403 Lyndale Avenue S.
Minneapolis

10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. / Call store to RSVP 612-870-0420

We were among the lucky few who got a seat (and a tasty mimosa) at last year’s VIP Designer Salon at Cliché. The annual event includes a mini fashion show of Cliché fashions (including Voltage lines from Amanda Christine, Ivan Idland, Maritza Ramirez, Carmichael Claith, Arwyn Birch and Emily Weich), plus refreshments and 10% off everything in the store. Think only the city’s most stylish can gain entry? Here’s a tip: You can be a part of the elite by calling Cliché to RSVP. Consider yourself well-connected.

SUNDAY APRIL 26TH

Ruby3 Fashion Ride

@ Meet in Parking lot of ROBOTlove
2648 Lyndale Avenue S.
Uptown Mpls

1pm-4pm / Free

With more and more Minneapolitans opting for bikes over cars, there’s never been a better time to look stylish while cycling. The annual MNfashion Week bike ride

organized by Ruby3 designer (and Voltage producer) Anna Lee provides the perfect excuse to finally pluck your beach cruiser out of storage and don your cutest bike-friendly outfit. Don’t have a cute bike-friendly outfit? Stop by Design Collective to check out the Voltage collection from design duo 2709. The ingenious line was created for the bicyclist who desires both fashion and function.

SUNDAY APRIL 26TH

Mimosa Reception for Voltage Designers

@ Design Collective
1311 W. 26th Street
Minneapolis

1pm-5pm / Free

You’ve seen the collections on the Voltage runway, but unless you had a VIP seat (or got a little tipsy), you probably missed out on a lot of the details that the designers slaved over for months. Now’s your chance to view the collections by Calpurnia Peach, Max Lohrbach, Allison Quinnell and 2709 up close while getting personal with the designers over mimosas and hors d’oeuvres at Design Collective. And you never know – you might just end up going home with your own collectors’ item.

SUNDAY APRIL 26TH

White Knight

@ Nick & Eddie
1612 Harmon Place
Minneapolis

8 p.m. to Close

Not an official event of Fashion Week, but has iconic Minneapolis artist Scott Seekins ever

done things the conventional way? We think not. Head to Loring Park favorite Nick and Eddie to witness the official "changing of suits" when Seekins makes his seasonal transition from black suit to white suit. A recognizable character that you've no doubt met roaming the streets of the Twin Cities, or at any given art opening, Seekins switches up his signature style only twice a year; an all-white suit in the warm months, an all-black one for the chilly months. This evening celebrates Seekins in all his quirky glory, with drinks, tunes, and of course, "the artist" himself. Wear all white and receive a FREE drink; dress up like Seekins you may just win a dinner for two at Nick and Eddie PLUS a limited edition Seekins art print!

Editor: Kate Iverson
Contributing Writers for fashion guide: Juleana Enright, Jahna Peloquin, Kate Iverson, Beth Hammarlund

CONTENT © L'ETOILE MAGAZINE 2009

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Weekend What's What 4/16-4/21

SPRING IN OUR STEP

We've almost forgotten what the color "green" looks like, but thanks to Mother Nature that will soon be remedied. Along with the breezy, non-offensive weather comes a major upsurge in amazing events and we couldn't be more excited! Next week is MNFashion Week (check back for our special events guide coming out this Sunday) but this weekend is certainly an apt precursor with tons of stylin' events to get you warmed up. Check out prolific designer Kimberly Jurek's solo show at the W Hotel or test drive your fancy fashions at the new Pink Hobo Gallery in Northeast. With so much going on, we're not sure where to start, or what to wear, for that matter!

xo-l'étoile

Photo by Eric Eul for l'étoile agency

THURSDAY APRIL 16TH

MSP International Film Fest Opening Night: 500 Days of Summer

@ Kerasotes Block E
600 Hennepin Ave
Minneapolis

7pm / $10 General Admission, $8 Students & Seniors

The 27th Annual Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival kicks off tonight with a film from a director whose work you’ve most likely seen, whether aware of it or not. Marc Webb, director of 500 Days of Summer, is best known for his shorts and music videos, shooting countless pop charts artists from Regina Spektor to The Pussycat Dolls. His full-length, “500 Days of Summer,” stars the ever-popular She & Him member, Zooey Deschanel, and child actor (3rd Rock From the Sun, anyone?) turned indie celeb, Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Told in non-linear shots, the story follows the summer office romance between a hopeless romantic and an alluring contrarian whose theories on love ultimately lead to the demise of their relationship. The film’s “bring-down-the-house” musical finale sets the tone for a series of romantic comedies screened at this year’s 14 day-long fest. After the film, stop in to Bellanotte for an Opening Night Gala celebration featuring a free dinner buffet, cocktails and a dance performance from local troupe, Kajal Belly Dance Company. Tickets are $20 for gala or $30 for film and gala party. Visit the MSPIFF website for a full list of films and schedules, special event details, and to purchase festival passes and packages.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MSPIFF SITE

THURSDAY APRIL 16TH

More Cowbell 5 Year Anniversary

@ The Turf Club
1601 University Ave W
St Paul

9pm / 21+ / $6

Our friends at MoreCowbell.net have been thoroughly and reliably covering the local and national music scene and cheerleading their favorite bands for 5 years now, and that’s a long time in blog-years! To celebrate, they’ve assembled some of the finest bands in town to rock the Turf, reflecting the site's wide reaching tastes - a perfect combination of familiar faves and lesser known bands, of which we are happy to be introduced. Joining headliners Romantica are country-rock ‘Mats soundalikes The Evening Rig and newcomers The Absent Arch.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MORE COWBELL SITE

THURSDAY APRIL 16TH

Slap!

@ The Kitty Cat Klub
14th & 4th
Dinkytown

10pm / 21+ / Free

Everyone's fave red devils, the sisters Tendercakes, and their beat slangin' best bud Millions Billions return to the Kitty Cat for yet another installment of SLAP! Never ones to give reason for randomly smacking people, T-Cakes and Millz Billz pull out all the jams for this Thursday night dance throw-down -- which may just leave your cheeks stinging and your ears ringing. The much buzzed-about DJ Gigamesh joins the gang this evening to ensure enough sonic abuse is doled out to the masses.

Sponsored by l'étoile magazine

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT

VOLTAGE DESIGNER PICK: CALPURNIA PEACH

A favorite of last year's Voltage show, the designers of Calpurnia Peach have returned with a design concept dedicated to wide-eyed, impish adventure and fairy tale imagery that even their name (based upon the escapades of an imaginary mischievous little girl) will attest to. And we've gotta hand it to the inventive ladies of Calpurnia Peach (aka Ashley Wokasch and Luci Kandler), their timing on juxtaposing pop culture and design couldn't have been more astute. The scary, yet wonderous world of children's book, Where the Wild Things Are -- gaining popularity as it's motion picture release date draws near -- is the muse for the line chocked-full of the “untamed” prints and daring silhouettes. As young and fresh as the designers themselves, Calpurnia Peach's garments are a testament to the art of screen printing, with bold colors and idiosyncratic, yet whimsical flair. We anxiously await the prints of scales, fur and googly eyes Calpurnia Peach boasts for this year's runway extravaganza.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VOLTAGE SITE
Photo by Nic Marshall for Voltage 2009

FRIDAY APRIL 17TH

Celebrate AE!

@ Altered Esthetics
1224 Quincy St NE
Minneapolis

5pm / Free / Donations Encouraged

Be it a restaurant, bar, or — even harder — a non-profit art space, sticking around for five years is nothing to sneeze at. Tonight’s anniversary/fundraiser promises a wood-themed art exhibition, silent auction and wood-themed games (our favorite?) Not to mention a raffle and live music. Do your part, no matter your budget, by snapping up a fistful of raffle tickets or even purchasing a piece of art. Supporting the arts makes us feel all warm and fuzzy!

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM
Art by Don VanAuken

FRIDAY APRIL 17TH

Gallery Grooves Meets Go Live II

@ 526 Salon Spa Gallery
526 Selby Avenue
St. Paul

6pm-10pm / Free

Our pals at Secrets of the City know how to do it up, and fortunately, so do our pals at 526 Salon Spa Gallery. These two forces combined will surely create one of the coolest art events of the weekend when SOTC's monthly Gallery Grooves art party makes nice with 526's new "Go Live" Series. See performance art, music by Aaron Keith Stewart, fashion and of course ART by Nick Minenko and Martha Iserman. Sample treats from the new St. Paul deli, Cheeky Monkey, and sip wines courtesy of the always delightful Solo Vino Wine Shop.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR MORE INFO

FRIDAY APRIL 17TH

Exclusively Spring by Kjurek Couture

@ The W Hotel
821 Marquette Ave South
Minneapolis

8pm / $10-$15

Shake the end of winter blahs with a little fashion-fun at "Exclusively Spring" at the W Hotel, an early event of MNFashion Week. This fashion extravaganza promises to delight with its bevy of stylish designs a la the talented Kimberly Jurek, who will be showcasing her brand new Spring line. Her garments are consistently wearable, fresh and fun, and will be paired with accessories by Adrienne. With music by l’étoile faves Attitude City, this event is bound to be the perfect kickoff for Fashion Week. Tickets will most likely sell out, so get to Cliché, Drama, Gallery 360 or Karma (in person or by phone) ASAP to score yours!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE KJUREK COUTURE SITE

FRIDAY APRIL 17TH

Deep North

@ Burnet Gallery at Chambers Hotel
901 Hennepin Ave
Minneapolis

6pm-9pm/free

How do our machines affect us? Local artist Chris Larson creates sculptures and images asking what our tools do for human nature, and what the side effects are. Using a shotgun to blast his pieces repeatedly, the final product is what's left behind. Add in an iced-over shotgun shack to create the atmosphere and you've got a chilly exhibit which lives up to its name. Through June 13th.

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

FRIDAY APRIL 17TH

Exquisite Installation

@ Vesper College
201 6th street SE
Minneapolis

6pm-9pm / Free

You know what an exquisite corpse is -- someone draws a head, folds the paper over so the next artist can’t see, and everyone takes turns adding their piece without knowing their full impact until the end, when all is revealed. Over the past few weeks, this exact thing has been happening at Vesper College -- in installation form. Tonight everyone, including the eleven participating artists (including l'etoile's own Lacey Prpić Hedtke), will see the piece in its entirety. Ambitious!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VESPER COLLEGE SITE

FRIDAY APRIL 17TH

Eduardo Kac: Natural History of the Enigma

@ Weisman Art Museum
333 E. River Road
Minneapolis

6-7:30pm / Free

A genetically-modified petunia might conjure up thoughts of a 50's B-horror flick, but not to worry, the centerpiece of WAM's newest exhibit doesn't have killer teeth and isn't coming after your children – at least we hope not. The “Eduardo Kac: Natural History of the Enigma” exhibition is the product of a 3- year-long collaboration between ground-breaking artist Eduardo Kac and U of M scientist Neil Olszewski, whose work fusing proteins from both a plant and Kac himself created new life in the form of a transgenic plant. Kac explains it by saying, “The result of this molecular manipulation is a bloom that creates the living image of human blood rushing through the veins of a flower.” Is anyone else seeing the “Little Shop of Horrors” connection? Meet the artist at tonight's opening reception and check out the innovative - and yes, a tad scary- piece you have to see to believe.

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

FRIDAY APRIL 17TH

Black Blondie CD Release Party

@ Triple Rock
629 Cedar Ave. S.
Minneapolis

9pm / 21+/ $8

Local hip-hop quad, Black Blondie, packs a bigger punch than most punk divas, a soulful sound their bluesy predecessors would be proud of, and a lyrical confessional style that could fit behind a pulpit. The versatile band - who URB Magazine says “sounds like: Esthero and Amy Winehouse living inside Betty Boop's head” - have shared a stage with Jill Scott, The Roots and Winehouse herself. Tonight, the sassy locals take the stage at the Triple Rock in promotion of their album, Do You remember Who You Wanted to Be?. With guests Chastity Brown, M.anifest and DJ Turtleneck.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BLACK BLONDIE MYSPACE
Photo by B Fresh

FRIDAY APRIL 17TH

Gay Witch Abortion & MC/VL

@ The Hex
2600 27th Ave S
Minneapolis

10pm / 21+ / Free

We’ll be honest, sometimes it’s easy to judge a book by its cover. Between their nauseating MySpace background and their freakish band name one might expect Gay Witch Abortion to be Minneapolis’ answer to AIDS Wolf. Instead, GWA offers up a seamless blend of heavy stoner rock, a bit of punk blues and a dash of surf rock. MC/VL, on the other hand will deliver their usual rousing, manic set of rap tunes set against playful beats and looped found sounds. Seems an unlikely pairing, but might just be what you might need after a day of shiny, stylish event hopping. With Unicorn Basement and Baby Guts.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE GAY WITCH ABORTION MYSPACE
Photo of GWA by Sarah Jordet

FRIDAY APRIL 17TH

Honeymoon

@ First Ave VIP Room
701 1st Ave N
Minneapolis

10pm / 18+ / $3-6

Head to the VIP Room tonight and impress DJ Willy Joy, Shannon Blowtorch, and the Moongoons with your stellar dance moves at this month's Honeymoon. The theme? Super Heroes. So get creative with that spandex! Show these DJs that you haven’t forgotten how to shake it while hibernating over the winter. Dance, dance, dance your pants off!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HONEYMOON SITE

COOL LINK: L'ETOILE ARCHIVES

It’s not easy being irresistible. We know you can’t get enough of us, which is why we’ve made the past two print issues of l’étoile available online! If you’ve paged through a million times, and can’t rationalize taking your copy with you everywhere, you can still show your friends the magazine you love. Delve into our archives!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR OUR HOME PAGE TO ACCESS THE ISSUES

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH (THROUGH SUNDAY)

Buy/Collect Panel Discussions

@ Bookmen Stacks
345 Sixth Avenue North
Minneapolis
(enter through side courtyard)

2pm / Free

If you didn't make it to the packed-house opening of Buy/Collect at the Bookmen Stacks last weekend, this afternoon is your chance to see the exhibit in a different light. Today at 2pm, listen in on a panel discussion focused on "The Relevance of Arts Patronage" with panelists Emma Berg of mplsart.com; Amy Rice, visual artist; Frank Gaard, visual artist; Chris Atkins of the Minneapolis Institute of Art; and Sheila Smith of the MN Citizens for the Arts. Sunday at 2pm return for "The Growth and the Decline of the Contemporary Art Market in Minnesota" -- a must-hear discussion for working artists.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BUY/COLLECT SITE

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH

RGB Color Theory

@ Familia Skate Shop
2833 Hennepin Ave
Uptown Mpls

8-10pm / Free

l'étoile has known Nate Reiman longer than ya'll have known l'étoile -- and we happen to think Nate Reiman is tops! Not only is his photography stellar, but certain l'étoile-ites credit him as the inspiring force behind their pursuit of art photography. Head to Familia Skate Shop's new Uptown location this evening for the opening reception of RGB Color Theory, a collection of skate shots and portraits of some of the Twin Cities most kick-ass thrashers, a la Reiman. We can guarantee a spirited crowd and good art -- can you guarantee your attendance? We think you can.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FAMILIA BLOG

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH

Rumours Spring Fashion Show & Dance Party

@ Rumours & Innuendo
213 4th St. E
St. Paul

7pm / $7 / 21+

This isn’t going to take much convincing on our part, so we’ll throw out the vital information: 80’s styles, lingerie and couture, designs by Oskar Ly, Coco & Breezy (yes, THAT Coco & Breezy -- they are designing now!), Mitsou Ly and Brittany Hughes. Hosted by drag queen superstar Camille Collins at St. Paul’s newest gay bar. Don’t be shy about your own style either -- glitter and heels are encouraged!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT
Photo of Coco & Breezy by Kelly Lyall

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH

ARP! Release Party

@ Art of This Gallery
3506 Nicollet Ave
Minneapolis

7pm-11pm / $5 suggested donation

Yes! The time we all wait for, when the new ARP! hits the racks. Each one’s better than the next. This issue’s theme is Cut and Paste, so look forward to articles on cultural appropriation, forgery and the future of the book. Pick up your copy at the release party, featuring tunes by Jon Nelson of Some Assembly Required and Slapping Purses, plus a film screening. Munch on Chow Girls food and sip Zipps beer, and admire the current exhibit, Rumble on the Southside.

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH

Paper Toy & Pop Out Show

@ Pink Hobo
507 E. Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis

7pm-Midnight/ Free

Self-proclaimed geek art gallery, Pink Hobo, hosts an exhibit for design junkies, origami aficionados and paper art enthusiasts alike, proving once and for all that pop-outs aren't just for the kiddies. Tonight's group exhibit features a talented array of local and visiting paper design masters including Megan Brain, an artist for Cartoon Network; Milwaukee faves The Little Friends of Printmaking; and local talent, Mike Davis of Burlesque Design -- just to name a mere few. Don't miss this colorful, nostalgia-ridden show, but stock up on band-aids -- paper-cuts are an expression of this arts' affection!

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH

Booby Trap

@ Bolt Underground
515 Washington Ave. S.
Minneapolis

9pm / 21+ / $5

The Twin Cities lesbo nightlife is fascinatingly varied, with everything from chic to leather. The Booby Trap (heh heh) is just one of a new string of girly nights popping up around the city, bringing the XX-chromosome crowd and their pals out in force. Sure, Booby Trap is definitely a home base for the girl-meets-girl crowd, but this joint also welcomes good-timers of all persuasions.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BOOBY TRAP FACEBOOK EVENT

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH

Menergy

@ Club Jager
923 Washington Ave N
Minneapolis

9pm / 21+ / Free

A bubbly thrust of human dance lust! A powerforce of classic and fresh dance ooze! Keep your body grooving, and your sex appeal at an all time high at this months legendary boy’s night known as Menergy! No, it's not the name of a porn, but the hairy, thrusting brainchild of DJ Grandmother Grant and video artist Time Squid. Tonight's edition features special guest Arlekeen rocking the clubhouse, as well as video artist Lindsey Borg. Hott!

Click HERE for the Jager Myspace!

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH

Idle Hands/Communist Daughter/Nightinghales

@ 331 Club
331 13th Ave NE
Minneapolis

9pm / 21+ / Free

Need something to brighten up the already fabulous weekend forecast? Check out The Idle Hands, whose latest album Loaded, (with a title track that is all over 89.3 The Current) is a sunny dose of wry, catchy pop just begging to be blasted out of your car this summer. The band's punchy sound comes with just the right amount of jangle, which you can see for yourself when the group plays Saturday at the 331 accompanied by Communist Daughter and the Nightinghales.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE IDLE HANDS MYSPACE

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH

MPLS LTD Party

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave. W.
Minneapolis

9 PM/ +21/ $6

Local label, MPLS LTD, celebrates it's 10th anniversary in St. Paul tonight. With a killer local line-up of electro, rock, shoegaze, indie and psychedelic bands, the party's sound dips the stick into nearly every genre. Live performances from MPLS LTD label dwellers, First Communion Afterparty, Strange Lights, Mercurial Rage, To Kill a Petty Bourgeoisie, Basement Apartment and Grey Skies. Between the sets, DJs Tim Ritter and Matt Werner hold down the dance floor for an intensely satisfying night of musical hodgepodge. And as if the bands weren't enough, paid admission also snags you a copy of the limited edition MPLS LTD 7” vinyl compilation. Party on LTD!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MPLS LTD MYSPACE
Mercurial Rage photo by Digital Crush

VOLTAGE MUSIC PICK: MARIA ISA

Voltage headliner Maria Isa is an explosive entertainer and fierce lyricist delivering a percussive, raw, and uptempo experience with a powerful combination of hip hop, Reggaeton, and R&B. Unleashing hot beats and sultry vocals at skull-crunching decibels, this Latina scene queen is quickly becoming a voice to be reckoned with. Best of all, Maria Isa and band will be sporting custom threads by Jodelle Gerdes. If that name seems somehow familiar, it's because Jodelle's cousin is Voltage/Project Runway alum Katherine Gerdes!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VOLTAGE SITE
Photo by Nic Marshall for Voltage 2009

TUESDAY APRIL 21ST

JagerCon: Sci-Fi Tuesdays

@ Clubhouse Jager
923 Washington Avenue N.
Minneapolis

Every Tuesday
10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows such as Buffy, Firefly, V, Star Trek, Blade Runner, Forbidden Planet and more -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!

Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.

Kate and Beth are life-long sci-fi fans who also dabble in art and fashion. They appreciate Joss Whedon, Karl Lagerfeld, and Matthew Barney on the same level. They can also party like Sci-Fi Conventioneers. Kate and Beth strive to unite the segmented nerd culture of the Twin Cities the only way they know how: with alcohol and awesome Sci-Fi entertainment.

Upcoming Events:

Tuesday, April 21st: War of the Worlds (original)
Tuesday, April 28th: Dark City
Tuesday, May 5th: Doctor Who & The Daleks (1966)
Tuesday, May 12th: Evil Dead II
Tuesday, May 19th: Aliens Double Header
Tuesday, May 26th: Zardoz

For more info, visit www.jagercon.blogspot.com

L'ETOILE NEWSWIRE

Tickets are going FAST for both Laura Fulk's Suffocate Fashion Show AND Voltage: Fashion Amplified! Get yours ASAP if you don't want to miss two of the most anticipated events of MNFashion Week!

Keep your eyes peeled for our full Fashion Week Guide, coming out THIS SUNDAY!

To buy tickets to SUFFOCATE click HERE

To buy tickets to VOLTAGE click HERE

Vid from Voltage 2008 by David De Young

Kingman Studios Robbed!

Say it isn't so! Famed party-thrower and l'étoile BFF, Brant Kingman, informed us that his Northeast art studio was broken into last weekend. Says Kingman, "If you see somebody hawking Persian carpets and DeWalt tools, and keeping tabs on sales with a WinBook laptop, please give me a call at 612-306-4597"

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE KINGMAN STUDIOS SITE

GUEST BLOGGER: A TINY MACHINE

Beth Hammarlund talks girl crushes!

another girl crush for the list...sort of

Michelle Obama. Carine Roitfeld. Daphne Guinness. Jane Espenson. The sisters Mulleavy. The Girl Crush is nothing new to me. Whether it's talent, style, or just that certain...I don't know what, I always have some new obsession on my radar. Lately I've really been into Dasha Zhukova's look. I know that she's the point of some controversy, and I'm not sure what she has to offer other than slamming good looks and a kick ass wardrobe, but right now, that's enough for me. I want her clothes. Especially her Rodarte.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE TINY MACHINE SITE

GUEST BLOGGER: LE PETIT CONNAISSEUR

Jahna Peloquin previews the HBO remake of Grey Gardens!

I'm so very excited to see the new film version of Grey Gardens this weekend when it premieres on HBO. The film stars Drew Barrymore and Jessica Lange as the mother-daughter, accidental style icons both named Edith Bouvier Beale (the aunt and cousin of Jackie Kennedy). The 1975 documentary has long been a huge influence to fashion designers and stylists, and the film fills in the backstory on the duo before their legendary fall from riches to glamorous ruins.

Click HERE to read the rest of the article.