Hi, everyone!! Summer-time is a great time to cool-off and enjoy your favorite treat!! I have to say, that I certainly love to indulge in a CUPS frozen yogurt from time-to-time and enjoy a pleasant summer stroll! Well, CUPS Frozen Yogurt Your Way, the beach-themed self-serve fro-yo concept, will introduce the inaugural CUPS bikini at 6 pm, Thursday, July 14th at the store’s Clifton location (The Promenade Shops at Clifton, 852 Route 3, Clifton, NJ.).

Briella Calafiore and Jacquelina Bianchi, from the Style Network’s top-rated TV show ‘Jerseylicious’, will unveil and model the new CUPS bikinis. Created and designed by New York-based fashion designer Shelly LeSun, the limited edition CUPS bikini is a classic polka dot triangle top bikini with contrasting striped ties featuring an eclectic clash of colors and prints. The CUPS bikini is priced at $40 and is only available at CUPS Frozen Yogurt Your Way in Clifton beginning at 6 pm, July 14th! Designed with functional support in mind, the CUPS bikini will ensure a perfect fit for a broad range of figures. The bikini is made in high quality nylon/spandex blend fabric, which includes a fully lined interior for an optimal fun in the sun, movement and water content protection. All proceeds of the pink CUPS bikini will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure North Jersey. “We are proud to partner with Susan G. Komen for the Cure North Jersey and to be able to raise money for such an important cause – breast cancer awareness, “ said Rick Barbrick, President and COO of The Briad Group, and Cups co-founder. Since opening in November last year, CUPS has taken the Tri-State Area by storm becoming the local hot spot for teenagers and adults alike who make their own fro-yo concoctions choosing from 24 yogurt flavors, 43 different toppings and four sauces. CUPS serves nearly 1,900 customers a day.

*For more information: call 973-272-1990 or visit www.cupsfrozenyogurt.com. I really admire Briella Calafiore and Jacquelina Bianchi from the Style Network’s top-rated TV shows ‘Jerseylicious‘ and ‘The Glam Fairy’ for donating their time to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure North Jersey!

Jacquelina Bianchi from ‘Jerseylicious’ will show her support at CUPS!

“NUVO”, L’ESPRIT DE PARIS  otherwise known as ”the pink drink in the perfume-like bottle” is the new affordable alcoholic beverage trend that adds an extra spark to any party!  A ‘fashionista’ favorite, NUVO is a french white wine, mixed with french vodka, french sparking wine, and exotic fruit flavors with a touch of carbonation. Sip it alone or try one of the tasty mix options with fun names such as the ‘Sparkling Eva’, ‘Pink Berry’, or my #1 pick: the ‘CoCo Nuvo’: .5oz Ciroc Coconut, 2.5 oz Nuvo Sparkling Liquer, Splash of Pineapple Juice served over ice in a rocks glass, perfect!! NUVO is a known favorite amongst some of the hottest celebs including Kim Kardashian and Eva Longoria. Although it comes in a gorgeous pink glass bottle, men are NOT afraid to drink it! We’ve spotted the sexy Mario Lopez and the handsome Josh Strickland being served NUVO at some of the hottest nightclubs. NUVO has also been part of many famous music videos and seen on the tables of Kanye West and Jamie Foxx. But as for us ladies, NUVO is definitely a must-have accessory to your next girls night out or in! Please drink responsibly. Enjoy the clip of Kim Kardashian toasting with Wendy Williams  on “The Wendy Williams Show” with the delicious drink, NUVO! Cheers!!

Growing up along the ‘Gold Coast’, I have always loved the allure of sky-line fire-works!! My heart goes bang-bang — every single time I see the sky light up with vibrant, exciting and powerful burts of color!  This marks the second foray that the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks will be lighting up the sky over the Hudson River (right where I live)!!

Here are some prime places to catch the action with your friends and family!! HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY TO ALL OF THE DAILYFASHIONISTA READERS!! XO

Hoboken:

With sweeping views of the Manhattan sky-line, Hoboken looks to be a promising spot for clear views of the fireworks. Check out their street festival in honor of the occasion beforehand on Frank Sinatra Drive, between 1st and 7th Streets, which starts at noon.

Rooftop Locations:

*Press Lounge at Ink48

653 Eleventh Ave., at 48th St.; 212-757-2224

A perfect opportunity to check out our rooftop bar of choice’s wraparound terrace . The $225 cover includes four hours of open bar and passed hors d’oeuvre. For reservations, e-mail reservations@printrestaurant.com.

*Hudson Terrace

621 W. 46th St., nr. Eleventh Ave.; 212-315-9400

General admission to Hudson Terrace’s fireworks-viewing party is sold out, but should you decide to go fancy this year there are still a number of VIP packages available. You can choose among a handful of luxuries (and price points), which range from bottles of Champagne to tickets to an after-party at a yet-to-be-announced locale. Tickets can be purchased here at Hudson Terrace.

*The Sky Room at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Times Square

330 W. 40th St., nr. Ninth Ave.; 212-380-1195

At 400 feet above ground, there shouldn’t be much to obstruct your view at this brand-new rooftop bar. There’s no cover, and reservations for table service are available. Of the different areas here, the Northside Terrace will be the best place to take in the show, we’re told.

Water-side:

*Chelsea Brewing Company

Enjoy an open bar with premium liquor, wine, soda, along with our award winning brews. Hor d’oeuvres, dinner and dessert will be served. Brewery tours will be given at 6, 7 and 8 PM. 
After dinner, stroll to the restricted viewing area at the end of Pier 59 to watch the fantastic firework show which is certain to be a crowd pleaser! 
 
Call 212-336-6440, check out our website www.ChelseaBrewingCo.wordpress.com or e-mail us at CBCSpecialEvents@aol.com for more information

*West Side Highway
Choose from one of the many entrances below 59th Street along Eleventh Avenue and post up before the show’s approximate 9:20 p.m. start time.

 *Piers 54 and Pier 84
West St. and 13th St. / West St. and 44th St.
These two piers are the only ones that Macy’s recommends going to for a clear view of the show.

Take a Boat Ride:

*Water Taxi Cruise

South Street Seaport, Pier 17; 212-742-1969
There are still tickets left for Water Taxi’s annual Fourth of July cruise. The $100 ticket includes munchies, and there will be a cash-only bar selling beer and wine. Leaving from the South Street Seaport, the ship will head west to see the spectacle. For tickets, go here.

*The Jewel

23rd St. and FDR Dr.; 212-288-1975
Expect to get plenty tipsy on this open-bar Fourth of July cruise. Tickets are $150 (or $99 per person for groups of ten or more) and also include a buffet dinner and D.J. You can reserve a spot by clicking here.

*Clipper City

South Street Seaport, Pier 17; 212-518-4604
Touting itself as the largest passenger sailboat in the U.S., the Clipper City, which is modeled after an 1854 tall ship, is going big for the Fourth. For $350, you’ll get grilled meats off a BBQ pit and a Champagne open bar on this five-and-a-half-hour sail. Tickets can be purchased here.

Hi, Daily Fashionista readers! The July Fourth Holiday Weekend is finally upon us and it’s time to celebrate!! A new twist to a very popular favorite ‘Sangria’ which is a wine punch typical of Spain and Portugal — is the White Wine Sangria!  I have to say, that I was skeptical at first, because I typically love Sangria made with traditional Red Wine.  After having tried the White Wine variation last night, I can honestly attest to the fact that there’s something rather refreshing about using your favorite White Wine in this recipe! All ingredients listed in the recipe are estimates. Add or subtract according to your taste. One of the things that makes sangria so wonderful is its flexibility. Depending on the ingredients used, sangria can be a light thirst-quencher or a potent ‘party’ cocktail that can set heads spinning!! Adjust the amounts of liquor according to mood and the guests. Taste the sangria the day before your guests’ arrival so you can tweak the flavors a bit (add additional juice, brandy, liqueur, fruit, or sugar if you want).

Please note: Always drink responsibly and I only recommend these to those who are of age to drink in your respective state.  Enjoy, everyone!!

Ingredients:

2 (750 ml. bottles) dry white wine (Pinot Gris, Chablis, Chardonnay, Riesling, or Sauvingnon Blanc, chilled

1 cup fruit brandy (your favorite)

Fruit juice of your choice (I use fruit juice instead of sugar to add some sweetness)

Granulated sugar or Simple Syrup to taste (optional if not using fruit juice)

Fresh fruit (use whatever combination of fruit and berries that are in season), sliced*

2 cups club soda, 7-Up, seltzer water, lemon-lime soda, or sparkling water (optional)

Ice cubes

Mint sprigs, for garnish

*Any other seasonal fruit that tempts you may be added (berries, melon, grapes, guavas, mangos, apples, etc). Fruit juices may also be added. Let your imagination be your guide!

Preparation:

In a clean vessel, large enough to accommodate the wine, brandy, and fruit (pickle jar, sun tea jars, etc), combine the wine, fruit brandy, and fruit juices. Pour in the sugar or simple syrup, stir or shake the pitcher thoroughly to mix. Add the cut up fruits of your choice.

Add ice. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the fruits flavors to come through.

Serve the Sangria over ice in large wine glasses. Fill serving glass half full with ice. Pour the sangria over the ice. Add a few slices of the marinated fruit along with some fresh berries. Garnish each glass with a mint sprig and serve immediately. Viola!!

Owner/Creator of Posche Boutique Kim DePaola, Will Love and Alina Leshiner strike a pose on the red carpet!

Recently, a project that I have created for fun, with my friend Jaime Page of ‘Red Carpet Brownies‘, has caused quite the ‘buzz’ on the web! Titled “Dishin It Out in NJ“ is a v-blog series and  the premise of the show is to merge ‘Jerseylebrity’ with ‘Italian cuisine’ to form what can only be described as an incredibly juicy, eyebrow-raising, and controversial product – in more ways than one! The first two episodes, which were lighter in both content and mood, featured interviews with Alina Leshiner and Michael Craft.  Alina, Fashion Director of the famous POSCHE Boutique – professional Stylist and Buyer, was finally able to showcase a side of her that viewers don’t see on “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.”  Quite possibly the program’s biggest enigma, in our debut episode– fans were able to discover Alina’s fashion background, as well as her future aspirations and gain styling tips. The second episode featured noted photographer, Michael Craft of the New Jersey Equality (NJEQ) Campaign. Featured at Kim D’s “Birthday Extravaganza,” and set to play a big role at her 3rd Annual Fashion Show in September, Michael was able to give viewers a larger perspective on the purpose of the campaign, as well as share interesting facets on his photography background, including photographing the saucy Teresa Giudice.

In one of the latest episodes, which set the bar on what to expect next in the series, ‘Kim D.’ welcomed the #DIONJ (Dishin It Out in NJ) crew into her lovely home. While drinking homemade wine made by Joe Giudice, Kim gave her raw opinion on everything from fashions to fan favorites, and answered everything that fans of the ‘Housewives’ franchise are dying to know about both her & the other Jersey girls. Enjoy the clip, everyone!!

Thanks for stopping by DailyFashionista.com to read my article!

XO Will Love, Dailyfashionista.com contributor

To learn more about the fabulous Will Love, click here!!

*Now, Will and Jaime — about those delicious ‘Red Carpet Brownes’ – I believe, that this fashionista needs to do a taste-test!! (*wink)

Dark chocolate brownie laced with raspberry flavoring, topped ganache and pink and purple glitter. (Edible Glitter!? I’m in LOVE).

With the July 4th holiday weekend approaching many ideas are flurrying through our minds — where to go, what to wear, where to eat and what to drink!! Well, I have the inside scoop regarding one of my favorite NEW– New Jersey Housewives. I really like the new Real Housewives of New Jersey star, Melissa Gorga. Why? Because I’ve met her in person at several events and she’s really sweet, intelligent and funny (not to mention drop-dead gorgeous).

Here’s the scoop: For all of you RHONJ admirers, Melissa Gorga will be appearing and hosting the beachside festivities at Long Branch hot-spot Avenue – LeClubNuit. On Sunday, July 3rd from 7:00pm-2:00am an exclusive Rooftop Pool Party like no-other will take place!! I can’t wait to take a much deserved break and get to see the stunning Melissa once again! What will she be wearing? Something from REVE Boutique perhaps and accessories from The Sassy Shop Girl (some of her favorite shops).  See you there, everyone!! What to drink? I’m sure the bartenders at Avenue’s Le Club will serve up something delicious like a glass of Veuve Cliquot with the generous hand they pour with!! See you there, everyone. Also, enjoy the video footage I recently took of Melissa Gorga in a Marisa Kenson dress at a recent Reve-Boutique soiree! Oooh-la-la, Owwww!!

Nicky Hilton attends the Grand Opening Party of Beekman Beer Garden Beach Club in New York City.

With the nice weather finally in full swing in the city (Manhattan, that is) thoughts of attending hot-spots with my friends are certainly on my mind. We all work hard during the week and deserve to unwind! One such place that celebrities are doing just that is at the new ‘in’ place to be — Beekman Beer Garden Beach Club! As a matter of fact, Nicky Hilton was just there enjoying a hot summer night at this South Street Seaport gem, where Kelly Bensimon and Shenae Grimes also checked out the new riverfront bar. I hear the burgers there are out of this world!! See you there soon, everyone!! (Note to self: find out where Nicky purchased that sassy snakeskin dress).

For more about Beekman Beer Garden Beach Club, click here.

The stunning Giada De Laurentiis

Hi my flourishing chefs! They say that some like it hot — especially in the kitchen and that the key to any man’s heart is through his stomach. I tend to agree. I decided to cook for a friend this weekend and test out my latest purchase, “Everyday Italian” by Giada De Laurentiis. This book is appropriately named after her hit tv show on the Food Network. Yes, instead of a new pair of sexy shoes I opted for a “cook-book.” Any true fashionista knows that she needs to be multi-talented. *wink* As some of you know, Giadia is the granddaughter of legendary Academy Award winning film producer Dino De Laurentiis.

Giada’s show on the Food Network, “Everyday Italian” is a certified hit. I admire Giada! Not only is she a true beauty, but her cookbook was extremely user-friendly. There have been times in the past where I would look at a cook-book and then put it down only to proceed to “order-in.” Not this time, fashionistas! The mouth-watering pictures were enough to get me to the grocery-store — happily pushing my cart along the isles (I’ll admit I was wearing heels, as usual.) I decided to make Giada’s recipe for homemade marinara sauce and purchased all of the necessary ingredients. I made my dinner menu as follows; fresh baked bread from Balthazar Bakery shipped in from NYC, some delicious Vitamia Ravioli which I cooked al dente, homemade sauce made by your fashionista, zucchini sauteed in garlic and olive oil, and a tasty salad of chopped red onion, vine-ripe tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella and balsamic. Viola!

I truly LOVED the fact that I used healthy vegetables in the recipe for this fantastic sauce. The carrot added a fresh sweetness to the sauce. It really was so light and yummy if I do say so, myself. Here is the video for the actual tomato sauce I made tonite! My grandmother from Northern Italy would certainly be proud… I miss her. Mangia, everyone!

Hi, everyone!! What are you doing this festive Cinco De Mayo? I will be out celebrating at Teqa in NYC with friends and also enjoying one of my favorite cocktails by GIVEN. I’ve actually had the opportunity to meet and chat with the creator of this tasty Tequila –Michael Mills (pictured, below with me). But, what exactly is Cinco de Mayo and why do we celebrate?! Well, if you really want to know — I posted a handy little video for the Daily Fashionista readers!! See you around town and remember, for those who are of age – to drink responsibly!!

GIVEN with a smooth lime-infused taste is the ultimate in Tequila! HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO!!

Creator of GIVEN Tequila – Michael Mills with Dana Prigge’ of Daily Fashionista.

About GIVEN Tequila:

“A New Way To Enjoy Tequila.”

In tribute to its French roots, grace of fashion and instincts of humanity, GIVEN was born.

GIVEN (pronounced Jee-Vahn) is the ideal balance between a spirit and liqueur. It is a unique blend of premium agave tequila (imported from Jalisco, Mexico) and all natural lime juice, handcrafted through an infusion process in the Cognac region of France. By incorporating the rich heritage of wine and cognac producing techniques we created a new way to enjoy tequila. GIVEN is best served neat chilled in a martini glass or on the rocks for a refreshingly smooth taste.

Further information: www.givenliqueur.com

Many first dates seem like the social HOV lane to no-where. With so many online dating sites available these days, one would think the odds of meeting a great guy would increase.  I have to say, from honest experience that isn’t the case!! First and foremost, guys you need to re-learn the art of  ‘the call’ — I’m personally SO over men that think ‘texting’ is the only way to communicate in 2011 (you might as well use smoke signals)! Even if a first date actually comes to fruition many times it’s the first and last date. There’s a lot riding on a first impression here, gentlemen. I don’t want to come across as a hard-nosed fashionista, because many of you know me as the ‘polite one’, but lately I feel as if some of the metro-area men need a few friendly pointers. To the rescue comes a site ready to answer his questions and impress the ladies, www.socialsharknyc.com. ‘Turning Wimps into Pimps’ is their trendy motto!!

Founder Justin Gottlieb (who I admit is quite handsome) created an innovative site that’s really hip, interactive and rather interesting!! I love the concept of helping men ‘up their game.’ I feel like the women have Patti Stanger to give us ladies dating advice all the time, now there’s a source that men can utilize to do the same! The site is multi functional offering cool date ideas, hot venues, the best colognes, social tips & tricks, and so much more! I really enjoyed the “She Said” portion as well (of course, I did - *wink).  I may have to chat with Justin about writing for the ‘She Said’ column because I feel that I have plenty to offer that portion of the site (blunt opinions and advice)!! All of these ‘must know’ dating essentials are free with the option of one-on-one consulting for a personalized social/dating life makeover. Talk about full-service!!

Some of what you will find on the SocialSharkNYC site is quite interesting and entertaining:

*Receive a newsletter with exclusive content

*BREAKING DOWN GIRLS’ ONLINE PROFILES

*TEXTS TO MAKE HER WANT YOU

*THE ONE MOVE IN BED YOU NEED TO KNOW

*THE SOCIAL SHARK NYC DATING ALGORITHM

*Get invited to Social Shark NYC parties

*Comment on all blogs

The SocialSharkNYC.com launch party was held at the trendy RdV in the Meatpacking district of Manhattan. The Shark-tinis courtesy of Kettle One Vodka were creatively presented complete with gummy sharks and were really delicious!!  The good-looking crowd consisted of the who’s-who in Manhattan social life who showed their support for creative force Justin Gottlieb and this innovative social venture.  Juliana Goldman of Berk Communications, Liz Cassara of 13th Street Entertainment, fashion designer of Pretentious Pocket – Justin Ross Lee,  Darren Bernstein of the Empire Hotel, and Matt Kirschner PR expert were just some of the popular faces that attended this event. The stylish crowd also celebrated with a scrumptious shark cake! Photographer Sunny Norton was in attendance snapping away during all the chic festivities!

Men, head on over to www.socialsharknyc.com and see for yourself what all the buzz is about!! Social Shark is the hippest place to get the latest, greatest dating advice and information on the web!!  See you around town, everyone!!

The tasty celebratory cake!

Kettle One Vodka Shark Tini’s complete with gummy shark!! So cool (and delicious).