Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

Image By: DIA

Designer Happy Hour with Betabrand | Thursday, January 26
Liz Rossof, director of Betabrand's Think Tank, is coming to Detroit is the New Black in hopes of finding designers to feature on Betabrand in February! This event will also be hosted by your's truly. Betabrand will give a presentation at 7 p.m. (the event starts at 6 p.m.) on their platform, and we'll be discussing our plans for 2017. This night will also be the perfect chance to network with fellow Detroit designers and learn how to grow your brand better. All Detroit designers and design thinkers are welcome to come. You can register for the event here.

Detroit is the New Black is located at 1426 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.

H2SAS Entrepreneur Panel: Self-Care, Startups and Mindfulness | Thursday, January 26
When starting businesses, people oftentimes are only worried about growing it and making it successful. So much so that they may neglect to take care of themselves. This panel at Bamboo Detroit will help you realize that health is our greatest asset and without it we can't succeed. From 6:15 to 8:30 p.m., there will be a panel discussion, Q&A, and a group meditation. For a full list of panelists and registration, click here.

Bamboo Detroit is located at 1420 Washington Blvd., in Detroit.

ART SEEN: Coffee, Tea, Chocolate | Thursday, January 26
The DIA's Founders Junior Council is presenting an exclusive sensory experience held in the Kresge Reception area in the DIA. It will be catered by Eli Tea, Germack Coffee, Mindo Chocolate and Unity Vibrations. This will go from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Tickets are required, and you can purchase them here.

The DIA is located at 5200 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.

Cheese Pop-up: Part Thrice | Saturday, January 28
Gayle's Chocolates and Zach Berg of Berg's Provisions is coming back for the third time to give you the best cheeses and chocolates. Whether you are looking for something for a Super Bowl party or planning on giving the best Valentine's Day gift, they have the goods for you. There will be a variety of cheeses, snack mixes, bulk chocolates and more! This will be happening all day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Gayle's Chocolates is located at 417 S. Washington Ave., in Royal Oak.

Indulgence Event 2017 | Saturday, January 28
The sweetest party in town is happening from 8 to 11 p.m. at the Royal Oak Farmers Market. You'll have the chance to sample over 100 sweets and cocktails! Detroit's favorite cover band, Cosmic Groove, will also be performing. To purchase tickets and view the different packages offered, click here. This is the perfect event to get you into the Valentine's Day mood.

The Royal Oak Farmers Market is located at 316 E. 11 Mile Rd., in Royal Oak.

Blake's Chili Cook-Off | Saturday, January 28
Nothing is more perfect on a cold, winter day like homemade chili, drinks, music and a good time. From 1 to 4 p.m. chili will be served, followed by the judging. Live music will go from 1 to 9 p.m. in the tasting room. Tickets are $14 and will give you two drinks tickets and ten chili tickets.

Blake's Farms are located at 17985 Armada Center Rd., in Armada.

Wear It's At: Sneaking Up on Comfort

Heels are out and sneakers are in! Comfort is key with the trend of fashion sneakers as its popularity and practicality increases. Whether you are going to work, a night out with the girls or just running errands you can wear sneakers for every occasion.

Keep it casual.

1. The Morgan Long Sleeve Relaxed Crew, $150, Alchemy Detroit

2. The Legging Ankle (18 years destroyed), $235, Rear Ends (AG Jeans

3. Adidas Superstar Sneaker (Silver), $79.99, Journey's

4. Black Nero Tote, $267, Douglas & Co. Detroit

Dress It Up.

1. Soprano Cutout Midi Dress, $49, Nordstrom

2. Midnight Bomber Jacket, $78, Caruso Caruso (Free People)

3. Bertie Metallic Platform Sneaker, $69.95, Steve Madden

4. Half-Moon Black Concrete Loop Earrings, $40, Koonyai Studios

5. Accordian Clutch, $395, Shinola

Wear it to work.

1. Astria Off-The-Shoulder Sweater, $178, BCBGMAXAZRIA

2. Baboon Cohen Pant, $165, Aritzia

3. Becky Embellished Sneaker, $149.95, Rebecca Minkoff

4. Coin Edge Cuff Bracelet, $350, Shinola

5. Studio 8 Crossbody Bag, $375, Julie Lindsay

Busy Bee: Detroit Garment Group Expands Its Fashion Incubator Offerings To Better Support Detroit’s Fashion Community

We have exciting news! Detroit Garment Group is now servicing a larger segment of Detroit’s fashion community by offering additional services in its year-old fashion incubator based in TechTown in Detroit. The DGG Fashion Incubator was created to assist Detroit’s burgeoning class of fashion professionals with learning how to be successful entrepreneurs while building their fashion collections and is one of many educational programs presented by the five year-old non-profit organization whose mission is to cultivate education and economic development opportunities for Michigan's fashion community.

Along with offering office and production space, industrial sewing machines, high-end design technology, a mailing address, and 24-hour access, the incubator, which previously serviced mainly the sewing production needs of fashion designers, has now expanded to include ancillary services that cater not only to fashion designers, but other industry professionals such as photographers, bloggers and fashion reps. New services include a photography and design studio with capabilities for conducting full product and fashion photo shoots, as well as onsite photography editing.

"We're retooling the DGG Fashion Incubator to be more inclusive for fashion professionals," said Lindsey Alexander, Executive Director of Detroit Garment Group. "By adding backdrops for photographers, utilizing the desk space differently and only keeping the sewing machines used most, we are able to welcome many different fashion professionals into our space, and create an opportunity for better networking and potential collaborations within the community."

DGG is now accepting new incubator residents, along with hourly, half day and full day studio rentals to utilize either the industrial sewing machines or photography equipment. To learn more about the incubator and other programs such DGG’s annual FashionSpeak conference or Industrial Sewing Certificate Program, contact Lindsey Alexander at lindsey@detroitgarmentgroup.org.

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

Exclusive Consolidation Sale Preview Event | Thursday, January 19
Hurry in to Neiman Marcus Somerset Collection for a special preview event to shop the entire Consolidation assortment throughout the store. Not only will guests have the first chance to view and shop this special sale merchandise, but ladies and gentlemen will be able to sip & enjoy consolidation cocktails and local craft beers at bars throughout the store. Neiman Marcus will make a donation to yours truly in honor of your support for the event, so don't forget to grab a DGG Shopping Card from the DGG Board of Directors or volunteers when you arrive. Please RSVP to Public Relations at 248-816-3409 or rsvptroy@neimanmarcus.com

Neiman Marcus is located at 2705 W. Big Beaver Rd., in Troy.


Winterblast 2017! | Friday, January 20
After visiting the Auto Show, come out to Campus Martius Park from 4 to 11 p.m. for a night filled with food trucks, Bedrock ice bar and maze, Meridian winter outdoor slide, DJs, MetroPCS zip line, ice skating, marshmallow roasting, family fun and much, much more. This is definitely a night you don't want to miss.

Campus Martius Park is located at 800 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.


Happy Hour Extra: The Not-the-Most Depressing Day of the Year | Friday, January 20
Junction440 in TechTown has popcorn and beer every Friday, but this year they're stepping it up. In January, they'll be commemorating "Blue Monday," the most depressing day of the year. You're in the post-holiday blues, you just received your credit card statement in the mail and spring is still months away. From 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., enjoy pop-a-shot, a ping pong play-off, corn hole, a super feel-good movie and extra-cheery drinks on tap. 

Junction440 is located at 440 Burroughs St., in Detroit.


Zarkpa's Three Year Anniversary Celebration | Saturday, January 21
From 4 to 11 p.m., Zarkpa's will be hosting their three year anniversary in Detroit as an upscale LifeStyle retail storefront. In the past three years they have expanded from just carrying purses and accessories to adding custom West African apparel and fine handmade leather goods. To RSVP, click here.

Zarkpa's is located at 9033 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.


DIA International Coffee and Tea Festival | Saturday, January 21 and Sunday, January 22
This weekend at the DIA explore the traditions of serving and drinking coffee and tea from four different cultures: Arabic, Chinese, Indian and Japanese. These cultures all have heavily influenced the way the beverages are consumed in Western society. This festival will include tastings and demonstrations in the Great Hall, performances in Rivera Court, and art-making and other family-oriented activities in the first-floor Student Lunchroom. Activities are from noon to 4 p.m. both days. All events are free with museum admission for Wayne, Oakland and Macomb county residents. For more information and tickets, click here.

The Detroit Institute of Arts is located at 5200 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.


Metro Times Vodka Vodka | Saturday, January 21
Vodka Vodka returns for its eighth year as Detroit's sexiest vodka-tasting event at the Royal Oak Music Theatre from 7:30 to 11 p.m. Come out and sample your old favorites and discover new ones! The party will also include a hair and fashion element presented by 7 Stone Models. GA tickets are $40, which include 10 drink tickets and a commemorative glass. VIP tickets are $55, which include 12 drink tickets, commemorative glass, appetizers, and access to Tito's VIP terrace with exclusive cocktails, hand passed hors d'oeuvres and a VIP gift bag. For tickets, click here.

The Royal Oak Music Theatre is located at 318 W. 4th St., in Royal Oak.

Style It Local: CMU Fashion Student Talks Fashion & Career Pathways

Name: Macey Ronquillo

Major & School: Fashion Merchandising at Central Michigan University (sophomore)

Website: www.chiclyinkedd.wordpress.com

Instagram: @MaceyRonquillo

About Me: I am a sophomore at Central Michigan University, and I grew up in Oakland county Michigan. I love fashion and I am so thankful my parents are giving me the opportunity to follow a career in what I feel passionate about! When it comes to the fashion industry, I see big things coming to Michigan. I want to experience working in fashion in cities like New York or Los Angeles, but I eventually want to come back to Michigan to pursue a career because I am so proud of where I come from!

Style It Local:

Sweater – Urban Outfitters

Leggings – Lululemon

Jacket – Kit and Ace

Shoes – Sorel 

Sunglasses – Ray-Ban

Style Inspiration: My biggest style inspiration comes from the girls in my classes and sorority, as well as the girls I see on social media. I am glued to my phone (especially Instagram), and I like keeping up with my favorite celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian and Jessie James Decker. They are both so causual but stylish all of the time. I believe I am a hippy at heart, so I like vintage styles that have a 2017 twist. 

Favorite Item in Your Closet: My favorite item in my closet is surely any sort of chunky knit sweater especially this time of year. All four seasons though, definitely a black or white bralette they make layering so fun and you don’t have to wear a real bra (yay!!).

Go-To Garment: My washed out black jeans that have a tear at each of the knees. I wear them to class with short booties and when I go out on the weekend I pair them with a chunky or strappy heel. 

Wear It's At: NAIAS Charity Preview

With the North American International Auto Show starting next week, all eyes are on the charity preview Friday, January 13. It's important to look your best while following the black-tie dress code, so we're giving you some ideas on what to wear. Check them out below.

1. La Femme Velvet Off-the-Shoulder Gown, $368, Nordstrom.

2. Crystal Choker, $68, StyleShack.

3. Cool Hand Luke Clutch, $225, Julie Lindsay Handbags.

4. Kendall and Kylie 'Eston' Cutout Heel Sandals, $140, StyleShack.

1. BCBGMAXAZRIA Lace Inset Gown, $448, Nordstrom.

2. Gold Double Hoop Earrings, $35, ELLA Designs.

3. Luna Pouch in Distressed Leather, $110, StyleShack.

4. Giuseppe Zanotti 'Coline' Strappy Crystal Sandals, $950, Intermix.

1. Vince Camuto Pleat Sleeve Jumpsuit, $189, Nordstrom.

2. Long Gold Earrings, $35, ELLA Designs.

3. LINEAR Handmade Statement Ring, $62, Goldeluxe Jewelry.

4. Saint Laurent Suede Bow d'Orsay Pump, $795, Neiman Marcus.

5. Ombre Glitter Evening Clutch Bag, $57, Last Call Neiman Marcus.

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

Photo Courtesy of Better Life Bags

FGI-Detroit Open Meeting | Thursday, January 12
The January meeting of the Fashion Group International-Detroit will be happening at The Townsend Hotel from 7 to 8:30 p.m. They're looking for new members to join this amazing fashion community! Men and women are invited to come out and take part. If you plan on going please bring a bio, resume or other fashion-related credentials. For more information on FGI, please click here.

The Townsend Hotel is located at 100 Townsend St., in Birmingham.

2017 NAIAS Charity Preview | Friday, January 13
It's auto show time! If you want to be one of the first to preview this year's North American International Auto Show, come out to one of the most exclusive and high-profile events in the nation. Proceeds will directly benefit a wide range of children's charities in Southeast Michigan. Since 1976, the charity preview has raised more than $106 million for charities! This event will go from 6 to 9 p.m. For tickets and more information, click here.

The North American International Auto Show is located at 1 Washington Blvd., in Detroit.


Open Workshop/ Retail Day! | Saturday, January 14
Stop in Better Life Bags from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a retail open workshop. Get the VIP treatment while you design your own handbag, right in the BLB studio.

Better Life Bags is located at 9411 Joseph Campau, in Hamtramck.


Vision Board Workshop 2017 | Saturday, January 14
Vision boards are a great way to visualize your dreams and a way to manifest what you would like to happen in your life. This workshop at the Office Coffee Shop is a great way to meet other visionaries like yourself, while working toward your goals and dreams. From 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. you'll work on your vision board, and then from 1 to 1:30 p.m. there will be a roundtable discussion and wrap-up of the event. It's $35 for one person and you can bring a friend for $25. The price includes light refreshments, supplies and inspirational items. To purchase tickets, click here.

The Office Coffee Shop is located at 402 S. Lafayette Ave., in Royal Oak.


Winter Film Series: The Hudson's Building | Sunday, January 15
This 1997 film chronicles the history of the famous Hudson's Department Store in Downtown Detroit and the debate over the possible demolition of the building after it closed its doors in 1983. It includes historic photos, home movies, and interviews with employees and customers, city planners, developers and members of city council. This is a free showing at the Detroit Historical Museum. You don't want to miss it!

The Detroit Historical Museum is located at 5401 Woodward Ave., in Detroit.

Style It Local: Melissa Malesky, Owner of Posh Boutique

Name: Melissa Melesky
Website: www.poshnovi.com 
Instagram: @poshnovi

About Me: I am a wife and mom of two, a 6-year old boy named Aiden and a 3 year old girl named Brooklynn. I am originally from Dearborn. I graduated from the University of Michigan - Dearborn with a bachelors degree in Communications - Electronic Media. I worked in the past as a marketing assistant for a couple of different types of companies. I always dreamed of owning my own business. Actually growing up, I really wanted to own a shop on the beach somewhere. Being in the corporate world just made me unhappy. I am such a hard worker and super motivated to accomplish the things I want in life no matter how many hours of work it takes, so I really wanted to be working for myself. This allowed me to create something of my own but also to have to ability to be a full time mom. It takes so much time and dedication to really build a business but I wouldn't change any of this for the world. I honestly feel like I get to have it all. 

Navy Cold Shoulder top- Posh Boutique
Flying Monkey Jeans- Posh Boutique
Fat Bootie- Posh Boutique

Style Inspiration: Growing up, I always loved Jennifer Anniston. I love that cool and casual look when you look on trend but it was effortless. Even before kids, I just loved a great fitting pair of jeans and a fun, chic top with a little accessory accent like a scarf or a statement necklace. As a mom, I tend to be inspired by other stylish moms. I like checking out how they put together everyday pieces to look so put together and trendy. I am on Pinterest everyday, for ideas about everything in life whether it be home decor, DIY projects, projects for the kids or style trends. It inspires me on what I wanna carry at Posh and how I wanna style it.

Favorite Winter Trend: I love oversized sweaters, leggings, and boots. It's so easy yet so stylish. Fall and winter are my favorite fashion seasons. At Posh, we call it the trendiest time of year!

Favorite Winter Accessories: Scarves and socks. I can style up a basic long sleeve top with a fun, warm scarf and complete my look. I also love boot socks. It catches attention but you can have fun with it. 

Advice for Aspiring Business Owners: Jump in and get your hands in the mud. You will never really live your dream unless you set aside all of your doubts and just go for it. Life is all about risks. Your biggest regrets could be the risks you never took. You can't expect to have it all if your not willing to jump in and do the work. It's not easy but if you really love what you are doing, it will never feel like work. Make sure you are ready to put in hard work, dedication, and the motivation to keep going even when times get tough. 

Wear It's At: The Brunching in Metro Detroit Edition

Going to brunch is a seemingly common activity on the weekends but trying to find a place to go can be quite difficult. We're providing you with some of the best places in and around Metro Detroit, along with an outfit to wear, that you can visit each weekend.

1. The Hudson Cafe, 1241 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48226

Photo courtesy of: hudson-cafe.com

One of the newer restaurants on the Detroit scene, The Hudson Cafe offers a classic variety of brunch dishes with a unique spin on them. You don't want to miss the five variations of eggs benedict or the different pancake, french toast and waffle options. Monday through Friday they're open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday they're open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

2. The Huron Room, 2547 Bagley Ave., Detroit, MI 48216

Photo courtesy of Eater Detroit

The Huron Room is a unique brunch eatery with yummy surf and turf options. The Huron Omelet has smoked trout, cheese, capers, pickled onion and greens, and The Great Lakes Benedict is a take on the brunch classic with fish cakes. The main menu is also open during lunch. Brunch is available Friday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

3. Laika Dog at UFO Factory, 2110 Trumbull Ave., Detroit, MI 48216

Courtesy of Laika Dog Facebook

Perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, Laika Dog offers their signature omelets or tofu scrambles, or you can build your own. They also have waffle dogs and deep fried french toast. You don't want to miss their bottomless mimosas and bloody marys, either! Brunch is available Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

4. La Dulce, 115 S. Main St., Royal Oak, MI 48067

Photo courtesy of ladulce.com

If you're looking for a non-traditional brunch, check out La Dulce for a Spanish-inspired feast. Check out their tapas, pork and waffles, and the fried egg over french fries. Brunch is on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

5. Super Happy Sushi, 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48201

Photo courtesy of Detroit Eater

This is another go-to place if you're itching for a non-traditional brunch. With delicious bagel sandwiches, waffles and breakfast sushi, you'll get all different -- but good -- flavors worthy of coming back again and again. Brunch is Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

6. Honest John's Bar and No Grill, 488 Selden St., Detroit, MI 48201

Photo courtesy of Opportunity Detroit

With breakfast running until 5 p.m. and even starting at 7 a.m., Honest John's is the perfect place for those friends you have that are late (or early) risers. Some of their signature items include the best chicken wings in Detroit, chicken and waffles and smothered hash browns. Some of their breakfast items are even available until they close at 2 a.m.

7. Parks & Rec, 1942 Grand River Ave., Detroit, MI 48226

Photo courtesy of parksandrecdiner.com

Parks & Rec serves up unique takes on dishes, while paying homage to your childhood and Detroit. Items like Saturday Morning Cartoons (pancakes made with cereal milk and toasted marshmallow syrup) and The Coney Waffle are things you definitely don't want to pass up. They also serve up boozy drinks, and their menu does change seasonally. Brunch is served Monday through Wednesday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

1. Sancia Mini Milla Jet Set Bag, $237, GuysNGals.

2. Nation LTD 'Olivia' Cold Shoulder Top, $108, GuysNGals.

3. PAIGE 'Margot' High Rise Ankle Skinny Jeans, $219, Nordstrom.

4. David & Young Reversible Plaid Scarf, $25, StyleShack.

5. Jeffrey Campbell Asterial Star Boot, $200, Sundance Shoes. 

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

Photo: Michigan by the Bottle

Hip In Detroit's 5th Anniversary Bash | Friday, January 6
Come out to El Club from 8 to 11 p.m. to celebrate the 5th anniversary of Hip In Detroit. Joined by great Detroit acts and companies, this will definitely be a party to remember. There will also be gifts given out! Tickets are $8 and can be purchased here.

El Club is located at 4114 W. Vernor Hwy., in Detroit.


New Year, New You! Wellness Expo | Saturday, January 7
Celebrate the new year at the Royal Oak Farmers Market with the wellness expo from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will be hundreds of products and services for a healthier mind, body, home, family, pets and more. There will be experts offering presentations, live music, healthy concessions, kids activities and free massages. This will run the same time as the farmers market. Admission, programs and parking are all free.

The Royal Oak Farmers Market is located at 316 E. 11 Mile Rd., in Royal Oak.


Mixology Fundamentals | Saturday, January 7
The Sugar House will be offering a two hour mixology class, which is a condensed version of what the bartenders have to take before they work there. You will discuss liquors, liqueurs, ingredients and tools to make mixed drinks. You'll then get the chance to make three drinks, which will cover a wide variety of techniques like shaking, stirring and straining. You must be 21 years old to take this class, and you can purchase tickets here.

The Sugar House is located at 2130 Michigan Ave., in Detroit.


Essence of Life and Johnny LZR in the Side Gallery | Sunday, January 8
At the Janice Charach Gallery, experience the essence of life -- all about Tu B'Shevat, the 15th Shevat on the Jewish calendar. There will also be a side gallery by artist Johnny LZR, a self-taught abstract artist living and working in Metro Detroit. For more information on artists featured, click here.

The Janice Charach Gallery is located at 6600 W. Maple Rd., in West Bloomfield Township.


Hamtramck SOUP Celebration and Potluck | Sunday, January 8
From 4:30 to 7 p.m. come out to PLAV Post #10 to celebrate community winners and to hear about how things have changed. It will be a great opportunity to talk with neighbors about future community events, how to make new projects happen and how SOUP can improve. SOUP is a potluck, so bring a dish to share!

PLAV Post #10 is located at 11824 Jos Campau, in Hamtramck.


Sip & Stitch Sunday | Sunday, January 8
Love knitting, crocheting, quilting, making other things with yarn and fabric, AND wine? Come out to Michigan by the Bottle Tasting Room for just those two things. Work on your projects with fellow crafters while swapping tips and tricks in a cozy environment! Bring your yarn, hooks and needles, and you can just drop in.

Michigan by the Bottle Tasting Room is located at 29932 Woodward Ave., in Royal Oak.

Oh, Shop It: The Neiman Marcus Consolidation Sale is Back

Photo Credit: DGG

It's happening again! We, in partnership with Neiman Marcus Somerset Collection, invite you to join us for the Exclusive Consolidation Sale Preview Event! Hurry in to Neiman Marcus for a special preview event to shop the entire Consolidation assortment throughout the store and save up to 70% off original prices. 

Not only will guests enjoy an exclusive preview of great shopping, but consolidation cocktails and Michigan craft beers will be on hand to fuel your shopping experience on Thursday, January 19 from 5 to 9 p.m.

Don't forget to grab you DGG Shopping Card when you arrive at the Big Beaver valet entrance, as a portion of those sales will go to help DGG continue its mission. RSVP to Public Relations at 248.816.3409 or rsvptroy@neimanmarcus.com.

*All Sales final. Selected merchandise only. No adjustments for prior purchases. Merchandise at Last Call, online and stores not included.