Uptown Twirl - UK Fashion Blog: The Latest Trends in Fashion

Uptown Twirl - UK Fashion Blog: The Latest Trends in Fashion

Dear Dallas,
If you don't know, you do now so there is no excuse! Get your fashion fix here:
http://www.uptowntwirl.com

Now you know and knowing is half the battle! - G.I. Joe

XOXO,
Alexandra

Dallas Mavericks

Dear Dallas,
Do you know how special you are to have the Mavericks here? 
You better....
XOXO,
Alexandra

Concert Venues, Dallas

Dear Dallas,
After attending several shows in the last two months, I have noticed that your smaller, club-like venues put on better all around shows.  From the intimacy and sound to the easier to deal with crowds and selection of bands, the smaller venues have shown to be a better, far superior experience to your larger venues.  With the rebirth of Deep Ellem, the old standards that never closed and the newer venues on the scene, I thought it would only be appropriate to list the Top 5 Small Live Music Venues for the Dallas area:
1. Granada Theater
2. The Loft
3. Trees
4. Palladium Ballroom
5. House of Blues
Each of these venues offer an intimate setting, not only with your fellow concert goers but with the band as well.  The tickets are cheaper, parking is easier and bands are better. 
Next time you are searching for something to do, check out the events calendars at these venues and support an artist.  We just might meet over a beer and a ballad!
Stay shallow Dallas.
XOXO,
Alexandra

Dungen Tonight, The Loft

Dear Dallas,
If want to be totally cool in my world then head out to The Loft tonight to catch one of the coolest bands I have heard, Dungen.  Weird name, I know but don't be scared!  Dungen (The Grove) is a Swedish psychedelic rock band based in Stockholm. 
Get all the information at my music column here.
Take a chance and geek out with me Dallas!
XOXO,
Alexandra

Examiner Dallas

Dear Dallas,
Follow me and my journey through live music, CD/Album reviews and our city's experience of rock n' roll and also, my general fabulousness! 
My music column is with the Examiner.com/Dallas and you can find me here:
http://www.examiner.com/rock-music-in-dallas/alexandra-koumoundouros

I promise, it won't hurt, it's free to subscribe and I will introduce you to music that you have heard of, never heard of before and will probably like, hate and can't wait to buy!
All in all, A LOT of fun!
XOXO,
Alexandra

Oktoberfest, Addison

Dear Dallas,
Doesn't a nice cold beer sound good?  How about a nice cold beer with 60,000 of your closest friends?  Addison is having it's annual Oktoberfest from September 16 -19, 2010 in Addison Circle Park.
Here are the admission fees:
GATE ADMISSION:

Thursday Sept 16th 6pm - 11pm FREE
Friday Sept 17th 6pm - Midnight $10.00
Saturday Sept 18th Noon - 5pm $5.00
Saturday Sept 18th 5pm - Midnight $10.00
Sunday Sept 19 Noon - 5pm $5.00
*Ages 4 and older
DFW area Albertsons are selling $5.00 anytime tickets!!!  Here are some quick facts about the event:
-There is FREE parking at NW corner of Dallas Parkway and Arapaho Road.
-Disabled parking is located at the DART Station located off of Arapaho Road & Quorum Drive.  Parking will be located at the far EAST end of the lot.
-ATM's will be available on-site!
-No cooler's allowed.
-Bicycle's, skate's & scooter's are NOT allowed.
-No pet's allowed.
-For more information you call tollfree 1-800-ADDISON or email Chris McMurtry at mailto:cmcmurtry@addisontx.gov.Chris
-Click here for Road Closures
-Click here for DART information (DON'T DRINK & DRIVE!)
One last important fact, all food, drinks, carnival rides, midway games, and wine tasting are purchased with FESTIVAL COUPONS.  There will be several locations throughout the park to purchase Oktoberfest event coupons.
Stay cool Dallas and I will see you on Saturday night!
XOXO,
Alexandra

24th Annual GrapeFest, Grapevine

Dear Dallas,
This weekend Dallas, Grapevine is hosting 24th Annual GrapeFest, a wine festival celebrated in historic downtown Grapevine.  The festival begins on Thursday the 16th September and ends on Sunday the 19th September. 
Here are the Festival Hours:
•Thursday, September 16 - 10:00am - 10:30pm, FREE ADMISSION
•Friday, September 17 - 10:00am - 5:00pm, FREE ADMISSION
•Friday, September 17 - 5:00pm - 11:30pm
•Saturday, September 18 - 10:00am - 11:30pm
•Sunday, September 19 - 11:00am - 6:00pm
NO DOGS OR PETS ALLOWED!
Here are the admission fees:
Admission is free on Thursday all day and Friday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
•Daily Admission - Adults: $8
•Daily Admission - Seniors (62+): $5
•Daily Admission - Children (6-12): $5
•Daily Admission - Children under 6: FREE
•Weekend Pass Pin: $18
•Weekend Souvenir Pass Pin: $23
There are free shuttles running continuously from:
1.North Parking Lot

401 Boyd Drive
North of Northwest Highway
Shuttle drops off and picks up at the North gate near the carnival.
2.Grapevine Convention Center
1209 South Main Street
Shuttle drops off at the South gate near the Cotton Belt Depot at the railroad tracks and Main Street.
 
There will be music, there will be food AND there will be wine!  If you need additional information, check out GrapeFest's website.
 
Cheers!
Alexandra

High School Anthems

Dear Dallas,
Being back in my hometown has me reviewing my past daily.  Lately, my high school years have been in my thoughts constantly.  I have been thinking about music, fashion and all around memories of those classic four years.  I believe that we all have a soundtrack to our own life and my high school period was defining for me.
My new topic for my music column is High School Anthems. 
I want to know Dallas, what was yours?  Comment here or on my article about one of my favorite high school anthems!  Oh and if you haven't subscribed to my column please do so! Its' absolutely FREE and I promise it will be interesting and educational!  But educational in the cool fun way!
XOXO,
Alexandra

9/11

Dear Dallas,
How will you pay homage to the tragedy of 9/11? 
From the Dallas Morning News website here is a list of memorials in the DFW area:
"Other memorials are scheduled throughout the day Saturday, at fire departments, town squares and churches. In a show of unity, religious leaders also will gather at the oldest mosque in North Texas.

Here are details on some of them:
In Lancaster, a regional tribute to those killed on 9/11 will take place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the Historic Lancaster Town Square, 100 N. Dallas Avenue (at Main Street).
It will include performances by a pipe and drum corps, a posting of the colors, and a police and fire procession. In addition to Lancaster, participating cities include Cedar Hill, DeSoto , Duncanville, Ferris, Ovilla, Red Oak, Waxahachie, and Wilmer.
In Mesquite, the fire department will host a memorial service at 8:30 a.m. at Fire Station 1, 410 S. Galloway Ave.
Before the service, firefighters will place 403 yard flags in front of the fire station, representing the public safety personnel who died as a result of the attacks.
"We will never forget their sacrifices and will always remember the great courage they demonstrated," said Mesquite Fire Chief Mark Kerby.
In southern Dallas, Christian clergy will visit the Masjid Al Islam, a mosque at 2604 S. Harwood, is a show of solidarity to call for tolerance and respect for American Muslims and Islam.
The 11 a.m. event is co-sponsored by the Dallas Peace Center and the Muslim Community Center for Human Services, the first Muslim social service organization in Texas.
"Our Muslim brothers and sisters are an important part of who we are as a nation," said the Rev. Diane Baker, a member of the Peace Center's board of directors. "Being inclusive and compassionate is at the heart of the American tradition, and it is central to the Christian message. Islam deserves the same respect freely given to other religions in America. It is that simple.”
Added Aftab Siddqui, vice chair of the Muslim Community Center: "The message of Jesus Christ, ‘Love thy neighbor,’ resonates among Muslims; let us start on that common ground and work hard to live up to the values that we claim define us.”
In Richardson , aviation professionals will gather at The University of Texas at Dallas to discuss their decisions during and after the terrorist attacks. Participants are to include air traffic controllers who grounded aircraft on that day, military pilots who had orders to stop further loss of life by any means necessary, and others.
The free symposium, "Navigating Chaos: Aviation’s Response to 9/11," will be from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the UT Dallas Conference Center at the corner of Drive A and Rutford Avenue.
It will be moderated by Lynn Spencer, author of Touching History: The Untold Story of the Drama That Unfolded in the Skies Over America on 9/11, a book published in 2008.
In Garland, Teddy's Backyard, a music venue at 210 W. Centerville, is inviting local firemen to a cookout to thank them and other public safety personnel for their service. Burgers and hot dogs will be served. Guests should bring their own beverages, chairs, coolers, and snacks. The celebration will be from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. It's for people 21 or older."
I personally want to give thanks to the brave men and women on the planes, in the buildings, the NYPD, NYFD, our soilders, every volunteer and anyone gave themselves for this country.  And continues to do so!
I support our troops and I support our President Obama!
Much love,
Alexandra

KXT 91.7 FM

Dear Dallas,
Um, 91.7FM is sooo great; it's your public music radio station and it is just fantastic!  Please tune in, support and find out about local music, new music, world music, popular music, everything.  Check them out on the web here.
Stay shallow and more importantly, stay cool!
Big Kiss,
Alexandra

Toadies album 'Feeler'

Dear Dallas,
One of our favorite bands from across town in Fort Worth, that's right I said it, Fort Worth.  I'll say it again too you know, Fort Worth.  Now I know we are all mad at them for getting the Super Bowl coverage and stuff and if you ask me it is odd that we are having the Super Bowl at Dallas Cowboys Stadium but coverage in Fort Worth but that does not mean we can't enjoy some of their perks.  One of those perks is all of our guilty pleasure the Toadies!  The Toadies just released a "new" studio album and I just reviewed it on the examiner.com for Dallas.  Check it out here!

Ok Dallas, stay shallow and um, I guess I will too!
Big Kiss!
Alexandra

First Family of Big D

Dear Dallas,
I was to introduce you to the first family of Big D!

I understand that our beauty is overwhelming, believe me I do.  But getting jealous will not help your insecurities.  For beautiful people, such as Dirky and I, procreation is mandatory.  Jesus wouldn't want it any other way.
You are welcome Dallas!  You are welcome!
Shallow as ever,
The Nowitzki's
Dirk, Alexandra, Dirk Jr. & Blanche

http://www.examiner.com/rock-music-in-dallas/arcade-fire-the-suburbs-review

Dear Arcade Fire,

Dear Dallas,
Check out my review for the Arcade Fire's new album 'The Suburbs' at:
Arcade Fire 'The Suburbs' Review - Dallas Rock Music Examiner 
Kisses,
Alexandra

Smooth Solutions, Multiple DFW Locations

Dear Dallas,
If you keep up with my blogs (Dear Dallas & Alexandra's World), then you know that me and the heat are not friends.  One of the very few ways to stay as cool as possible, that doesn't require TXU Energy, is by dressing in light, fashionable clothes.  Most of the said clothes require that I shave everyday.  So not in my constitution Dallas!  I am waxer, always have been.  It was easy too because in my little neighborhood in LA I had a salon one block away and could wax all of my necessary areas for $50; easy right.  Not so much in Dallas.  I haven't found any small salons like that.  My sister suggested doing laser treatment with Smooth Solutions.  She said that everyone was really friendly and the process was really fast and easy to maintain.  So I did it, I booked an appointment at Smooth Solutions and let me tell you ladies and men for the matter (introduce yourself to manscaping), it was super easy and fast!  You could definitely pull this off during a lunch break and still grab something to eat!  It is a bit more expensive than waxing but really worth it.  And if modesty is your issue, I understand.  I found it really odd to have a woman down there and even odder that there was no chance of an orgasm but I will tell you what my sister told me, "Think of it this way, they have seen 15 hoo-ha's before they've seen yours..... that day!" 
So check out Smooth Solutions Dallas, they have multiple locations making it convenient for you lanscape your special areas!
Stay Shallow Dallas and so will I!
XOXO,
Alexandra

Just in Case!

Dear Dallas,
From the Mayo Clinic:
"Heat exhaustion is one of the heat-related syndromes, which range in severity from mild heat cramps to heat exhaustion to potentially life-threatening heatstroke.

Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion often begin suddenly, sometimes after excessive exercise, heavy perspiration, and inadequate fluid or salt intake. Signs and symptoms resemble those of shock and may include:
■Feeling faint or dizzy

■Nausea

■Heavy sweating

■Rapid, weak heartbeat

■Low blood pressure

■Cool, moist, pale skin

■Low-grade fever

■Heat cramps

■Headache

■Fatigue

■Dark-colored urine
If you suspect heat exhaustion:

■Get the person out of the sun and into a shady or air-conditioned location.

■Lay the person down and elevate the legs and feet slightly.

■Loosen or remove the person's clothing.

■Have the person drink cool water or other nonalcoholic beverage without caffeine.

■Cool the person by spraying or sponging him or her with cool water and fanning.

■Monitor the person carefully. Heat exhaustion can quickly become heatstroke.

If fever greater than 102 F (38.9 C), fainting, confusion or seizures occur, call 911 or emergency medical help."
I was told we were not going to be in triple digits anymore this week, but you weather people always lie!  I am crying on the inside Dallas; how do you do it? You all should be given medals!
Anyways, I am still here just maintaining existence near the a/c!
XOXO,
Alexandra

Dear Clark, Uptown

Dear Dallas,
Recently I was hair raped; it was a very painful and emotional experience and I don't want to give too many details.  Needless to say, a person's hair is very important, other than your skin, your hair is the most important area of your head.  And when an unprofessional person takes advantage of that, pulling your hair up and hats/scarves become very important.
My sister, who is amazing, came to my rescue and offered to pay for my haircut and take me to her guy.  Her guy is Joshua Rossignol at the Dear Clark, hair salon in Uptown.  Josh is amazing, amazing, amazing.  I did not give him a lot to work with, as stated earlier, my hair was chopped and chopped and chopped.  He was able to pull a rabbit out of his hat and give me a doable hairstyle. 
Josh is someone I would recommend and more importantly, I booked another appointment with Josh as I was leaving the salon. 
Here is Dear Clark,'s information:
http://www.dearclarkhairstudio.com/
Stay shallow Dallas, and get your best hair at Dear Clark, and by Josh!
XOXO,
Alexandra

The Black Keys 'Brothers' Album Review

Dear Dallas,
I recently reviewed the new album from The Black Keys for the examiner.com Dallas.  The album is called Brothers and I highly recommend not only for you to check out my column but to buy the album!
Here is the link:
http://tinyurl.com/367nbdr
XOXO,
Alexandra

Shops at Old Denton, Carrollton

Dear Dallas,
I am shocked Dallas, you have a China Town! Well, to be clear, you have a China Town, Korean Town and Japan Town all rolled into one. It's the Shops at Old Denton, a strip mall area that has been around since I was a kid and is nothing like it was in the 80's & 90's! It's amazing, and really kind of funny due to what the businesses are now and were then.
From my second rate journalism, I found out that this began about three years ago. The center piece of the Shops at Old Denton is the Super H Mart, an Asian Tom Thumb and what was a Mervyn's. It is really great; any food you could imagine being bought half way around the world is in Carrollton, Texas. Lychee fruit, dried fish, kim chi, the list goes on. The best area of the Super H is the food court. There are only about eight "restaurants" in the food court but well rounded choices. As a vegetarian I cannot really review the food due to my limitations but please know that the fish choices are excellent and fresh! I did a walk through of the market and bought some plums the size of a baseball and aloe juice.
I highly recommend a visit; from sushi restaurants to karaoke spots, acupuncture to a yogurt spot, you can find almost anything you desire!
Alexandra

Dear Dallas, Your Welcome!

The Londoner, Addison

Dear Dallas,
There are certain things you need on a hot summer night; air conditioning, a nice breeze, air conditioning.  One of the most important is a nice, ice cold beer.  For the month of August, The Londoner's beer of the month is Blanche de Bruxelles.  This is exactly what a summer beer should be; nice, full bodied, served with a lemon slice and cheaper!
Bravo Londoner, bravo!
Oh and for this part time smoker, I have truly missed having a smoke with a beer and not being banished to the hot, outside world. 
Dallas, if you are in the mood for a nice beer, a relaxed atmosphere and great service, check out The Londoner in Addison.
http://www.londoneraddison.com/
Big Kiss,
Alexandra

Dear Dallas, A Letter from Fashion

Dear Dallas,


I recently moved back to this thriving city after twelve years of living in Los Angeles and in the process of reacquainting myself with my birth place I noticed something quite scary; you have no fashion Dallas! I was shocked to watch both men and women walking in and out of popular hot spots throughout this city without a care in the world, or a care about what they looked like. I understand the heat is huge hurtle; believe me, I do. I tell my family everyday that moving back during the summer has been my biggest mistake! I truly forgot what it was like here. But it does not stop me from putting my best foot forward in making myself presentable.

So before we get off on the wrong foot, and I dive into the holier than thou pool, let me give you some background so that maybe you understand where I am coming from. When I left Dallas I was twenty-one years old. Deep Ellum was the hot spot in Dallas and Uptown consisted of a Hard Rock Café and an Espirit Outlet Store with a few of the Dallas standards like the Mansion at Turtle Creek and the Reunion Tower mixed in. American Airlines Arena and the W Hotel had yet to be built, our NBA super star Dirk Nowitzki was the ninth overall draft pick to the Milwaukee Bucks and people still bought CD’s.

Coming back, it was an overwhelming pleasure driving into Knox/Henderson area and Oak Cliff and getting stuck in bumper to bumper traffic and watching people walk the streets from one place to another. I felt the electricity this city can generate and I was so excited to be back. But once I actually walked into the bars, everything I so firmly felt was completely shattered and I was simply disappointed. I felt like I hadn’t left at all and I was back in a college bar. I was choking on khaki and polo shirts, jersey dresses and flip-flops. And this was a Saturday night! Seriously, it was not even business casual.

I thought to myself, maybe it is the places I am going to or the crowd on that particular night. But after a recent Saturday evening out in Uptown for a friend’s birthday party, as I found myself elbow to elbow with men in their 20’s to their late 30’s with baseball caps and khaki shorts, and I deduced that it wasn’t just a fluke. This is just the fashion of Dallas. As I waited for someone to walk by with a fraternity plastered on a t-shirt or a baseball cap; or both, I realized something astonishing. I realized that it had been almost an hour and a half and I had yet to notice another woman, outside of my party, to walk in with heels on. At this point I completely ceased participation with the rest of my party and occupied myself with the reality show of my surroundings. I started wondering why the dress code was what it was and if anyone had taken a stand. I wondered why the women didn’t work harder on their boyfriends/husbands and vice versa. I have always felt that you are your own personal billboard and just as we are to “Keep Austin Weird”, I have always felt we are to “Keep Dallas Shallow”.

I decided to take my thoughts to the streets and ask my group how they felt. I dumped out all that I had been thinking and without the objective of validation. I truly wanted to know why. Amidst the collective thought that everyone was “over that tired look”, tangents of stereotype’s and caste systems where thrown about. Then a friend replied back simply with the most logical answer ever; she said, “Sometimes it’s just easier to walk into a bar where everyone dresses the same.”

Dallas, you are the ninth largest city in the United States, second in Texas. You are a metropolitan town with more restaurants per capita than in New York City. This is a friendly town wrapped up around a bustling skyline, that’s ever growing. This town also houses some of the largest corporate headquarters in the nation. You know how to dress for a job interview; you know how to dress for your job, what makes meeting a new friend or a new “friend” any different? There are some old adages that still work, and the one that comes to mind now is that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. If you want to impress a potential boss, a potential client; you dress for success. The same goes for meeting a potential date.

I hope we can still be friends Dallas. Stay shallow and so will I.