Spring 2012 Shopping Guide

February 22, 2012 34st.com

shopping guide

spring shopping guide

february 22 shopping guide

FROMtheEDITOR

2012

Reviews 3 Briar vintage 4 free people 6 Beautiful WOrld 7 rosenbach 10 milk and honey, bonded 11 piper 12 art in the age of mechanical reproduction, Jack wills 13 astro, kaleidoscope 14 vix, house of tea

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photo essay – 8 map of stores – 15

Read this, go shopping and we'll see you tomorrow as usual.

Also, a PSA: Today is National Margarita Day, so, yeah, do what you want with that information.

34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

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In case you haven’t noticed (do you have the DP delivered to your door every morning?), it’s warm outside!

Relatively warm – but then again this winter was only relatively cold. It hasn’t been an especially long or bitter winter, but that hasn’t kept any of us from using it as an excuse to not venture out of the Penn ‘hood.

Is there a better day to venture eastward (or westward, if you’re looking for VIX Emporium or Milk and Honey), in search of a new wardrobe to match the lukewarm weather?

Street presents its annual Shopping Guide, timed perfectly to the rise in temperatures (and your spirits).

We’ve got bowties. We’ve got lacey dresses. We’ve got teddy–

bears that turn into TOTE BAGS. No more of that Urban bullshit. We’re sick of seeing all of you in the same oversized sweaters and neon jeans. And we hear American Apparel has started attaching anti–theft sensors to its clothing, so that’s another option gone.

If you’re like me, and dressing room lines are akin to the ninth circle of hell, why not take the longer walk down to South Philly and pick up some cheap records?

You can play them on your porch, in your new vintage clothes.

You look fresh.

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Cover Photo: Sarah Tse

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Visit our web site: www.34st.com "I feel like we just didn't have fun this week." ©2012 34th Street Magazine, The Daily Pennsylvanian, Inc. No part may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express, written consent of the editors (but I bet we will give you the a-okay.) All rights reserved. 34th Street Magazine is published by The Daily Pennsylvanian, Inc., 4015 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19104, every Thursday.

Starring Vin(tage) Diesel

By Zacchiaus mckee | Photos by Sarah Tse

F

rom the outside, Briar Vintage looks like a store where your grandfather or that weird thespian kid from high school might shop. But inside, this Old City men’s vintage clothing shop offers an inviting atmosphere that encourages you to look at the multitude of 1800s cufflinks and 60s–era blazers on display. Some jaunty 1930s music plays in the background, contributing to the feeling that you’re spanning 100 years of history in one confined space.

And you are. Complete with three–piece suits, top hats, letter jackets, suspenders and bow ties, Briar Vintage features male fashions that range from the early 1800s to the 1960s. Polyester is a big no–no in this store.

Each piece sold is hand–selected from estate sales and flea markets, with an emphasis on Union– and Philadelphia–made clothing, ensuring that only the highest quality of merchandise is displayed. Worried you’ll end up looking like too much of a dandy in these vintage digs? Briar offers personal on–site styling advice so you’ll know exactly what shapes and colors work for your body. You’ll go from disheveled to dapper in no time.

But the real value in Briar Vintage comes from its dedicated and enthusiastic staff. Tattooed and pierced, store manager David Lochner seems like the last person you’d expect to find in an impeccable suit working in a vintage fashion store, but he’s

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BRIAR VINTAGE 62 N. 3rd St. briarvintage.com

about the hustle and bustle of the city around you.

One final look through the scarves, shoes, bowler hats, cardigans and suits (both single– What you'll find here: Vintage menswear going back to and double–breasted) solidifies the charm and excellence that the 1800s Bottom line: Vintage purists pervade Briar’s pieces. While the items might be a tad pricey — look no further for the average college student, myself). After that, I feel slightly with blazers ranging from about underdressed in my T–shirt and $60–$100 and suits going for jeans, but it speaks to the abil- a little more, the quality of the ity of Briar Vintage to transport pieces is unparalleled. This store you to a different time. A com- is no place for the hipster lookbination of the music, that an- ing to branch out from Urban tique smell and the collection of — only true vintage lovers will vintage suitcases makes you slow find what they’re looking for down just a little bit and forget here.

34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

Berger Properties The Tenant Comes First!

clearly passionate about what he does. He discusses different types of tie bars, cufflinks and suspender buttons for nearly 10 minutes before giving me a full breakdown of what clothing and cut would go best with my coloring, complete with a reference to illustrations from a pre–1960 Gentlemen’s Quarterly. And he’s absolutely insistent that I try something on before I leave.

The music changes to some Bing Crosby as I don a grey plaid blazer, as suggested by Lochner.

With his proposal of a light blue button–down, chinos and a green bow tie, I end up looking rather debonair (if I do say so

spring shopping guide

LIFE OF BRIAR

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spring shopping guide 34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012 4

DEFINITELY NOT FREE CLOTHING Mass–produced indie imitator isn't worth its price tag By nina wolpow | pHOTOS BY SARAH TSE

T

hough its tassel–toting tees and bright peasant skirts scream indie, Free People — a chain from the Urban Outfitters fam — is not exactly not mainstream. The decor at the brand’s new flagship store at 17th and Walnut, however, is worth a visit if you find yourself in Rittenhouse. Plus, the clothing line, begun in the 70s, is native to Philly.

Opened a few weeks ago, the store is curated as if it were a gallery, with space sufficient and simple enough to exhibit its more embellished pieces.

Clothes — like the aforementioned tops and skirts, plus this season’s lace–laden sundresses and cutoff shorts — are for the most part on the first floor, with lingerie and loungewear upstairs by the dressing rooms.

The latter two are, by the way, the store’s most noteworthy elements. Each dressing room is designed by an artist at Free People’s Home Office (located at the Philly Naval Yard); folksy doodles adorn whitewashed walls shuttered by colorful curtains.

FREE PEOPLE 1725 Walnut St. freepeople.com What you'll find here: Expensive clothes for wannabe hippie chicks Bottom line: May as well go to Urban

Folk art — or art that is modeled after it — is featured on the downstairs walls as well, and it too is for sale (most of it is in the $50 to $150 range).

Other adornments have been imported from India, which, though cool and exotic–looking, are not so unusual.

I tried on two pairs of wide leg jeans and two tops and left with one piece — a long– sleeved blue and white tie– dyed tee with wide, hippie sleeves. The jeans fit nicely, but were nothing special — midway between mass–produced (like American Eagle) and designer (like MiH). The second top (the one I decided against) was a cropped suede shift–like piece, with scalloped edges and tiny cutouts at the

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borders. It was pretty enough, but the $228 price tag and my past experience with less– than–well–tailored Free People pieces killed the deal.

In sum, the new Free People store is a good idea, but it's filled with the same stuff you’d find anywhere else, and it's just as overpriced as its peers.

If this merchandise is what you’re looking for, though, the experience at the Walnut St. outpost is preferable to digging through department store racks and can be followed by a turn at Urban, which is just next door.

spring shopping guide

34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

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spring shopping guide

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL WORLD

Break out of University City for some of Philly's best vinyls — and more

BY ELENA GOORAY | PHOTO BY SARAH TSE

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hen you first step into Beautiful World Syndicate, it may seem like any old record store. Vinyl is everywhere (the tables, the walls, the stairs), and visitors are immediately greeted by collections of punk and indie music, two genres that fit the preferences

you might expect from the type of people you’d conjure up when you envision “vinyl enthusiasts.”

But we promise you, if you roll up your sleeves, look past the charming film of dust settled over everything and give yourself at least a half hour to

browse, you’ll be surprised.

And then delighted. And maybe a bit confused. And then confusedly delighted. Beautiful World Syndicate offers one of the most wide–ranging music collections that can be found anywhere in Philly, not just among retailers specializing in

34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

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WE HAVE: E) ALL OF THE ABOVE Keswick Cycle has everything you need to get going on two wheels. Stop by one of our 3 shops today.

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vinyl. Arranged faithfully by genre and loosely by alphabet, their offerings move through rock (including classics, mainstream and metal) and into jazz, hip–hop, world music, soul and reggae.

In a world of iTunes and Spotify, this store genuinely makes you feel like an active participant in the act of loving and learning about music.

Even if you don’t recognize half the artists in a given section, seeing them lined up next to some of your favorite bands prompts a curiosity to explore.

And there really is something for everyone. In the 12” New Arrivals section — separated from used arrivals, which are on display next to a record player for sampling albums — I came across a Hot Chip EP, Madonna’s original single recording of “Like a Virgin” and something by Quincy Jones collaborator James Ingraham.

Music snobs or exclusionary purists these people ain’t.

The store’s welcoming vibe is rounded out by reasonable pricing, as most records go for between $2 and $5, and there’s a vast collection of $1 vinyls. You can also pick up something cheap from their used CD, DVD and cassette offerings, which are small and filled with non sequiturs, but are still worth perusing. The lack of utility for something like a cassette (or even a CD, these days) is balanced out by the sheer awesomeness of being able to say that you now

BEAUTIFUL WORLD SYNDICATE 1619 E. Passyunk Ave. (215) 467–0401 What you'll find there: Vinyls, DVDs and cassettes, featuring both rarities and old favorites Bottom Line: Good music, low prices, a sprinkling of oddities in a cool pocket of the city — what’s not to like?

own some late 80s music in a format for which the words “Side A” have meaning and you can actually go through the liner notes.

Because Beautiful World Syndicate is all about discovery, it’s best not to go in with a particular objective. Head out with an open mind and a friend or two in tow; you’re going to want to chat about your finds, especially when you hit the hodgepodge weirdness at the back of the store that includes — I kid you not — a $5 LP of Nikolai Gogol’s short story “The Overcoat,” with a label helpfully indicating that it was recorded in the U.S.S.R. You can even make a day of it, since this block of Passyunk also has a vintage shop and a couple intriguing restaurants (and its very own Capogiro — see, it’s not that different from campus after all!). The 20 or so minutes you’ll spend each way on SEPTA are well worth it.

Where else in the city can you get go–go beats, garage rock and Gogol all in one stop?

A book museum's tiny, quaint gift shop will have you coming Rosenbach for more.

BY BEN LERNER | PHOTOS BY SARAH TSE

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he townhouses at 2008 and 2010 Delancey Pl. are nestled in a quiet, upscale and largely residential Rittenhouse Square neighborhood.

Baby strollers are parked on stoops of the surrounding residences. Fancy cars sit silently on the clean side streets and young, wealthy parents walk their golden retrievers.

But amongst the domestic affluence lie these two townhouses, which together compose the Rosenbach Museum & Library.

Dr. A. S. W. Rosenbach and Philip Rosenbach were two brothers who collected various rare books, manuscripts and decorative arts in the early 20th century.

Their acquisitions helped build Harvard’s Widener Library. The museum on Delancey houses some of the Rosenbachs’ most priceless possessions, such as original documents from the age of exploration and the American

ROSENBACH MUSEUM AND LIBRARY GIFT SHOP 2008 Delancey Pl. (215) 732–1600 What you'll find here: Literature and knickknacks Bottom line: A small but ver y wor thwhile collection that will delight book enthusiasts

Revolution and manuscripts and rare editions of works by such authors as James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Lewis Carroll.

The gift shop, according to the cashier, caters both to patrons on their way out of the museum and to bookworms and tourists looking for children’s books or other writerly souvenirs. The shop is a single, small room with a lone worker (and, when I was there, a lone customer: me).

Shoppers can browse organized, small sections relating

to exhibits in the museum, like original facsimiles of Joyce’s Ulysses, the works of and biographies of the modernist poet Marianne Moore, and posters, prints and books by the children’s author and illustrator Maurice Sendak, who is heavily featured in the museum.

Also included are sections for “books about books,” Judaica, the Rosenbachs themselves, and posters (from Where the Wild Things Are to “Map of the Exodus from Egypt”). The Moby Dick section includes various editions of the book as well as illustrated versions and Why Read Moby Dick? Plus, there are literary chocolate bars and $2 children’s “Pig Splat Balls.”

Additionally, pricey lithographs are for sale, like rare Sendak books and illustrations for $500–$700. Clearly, the shop aims to attract customers with varying budgets.

Adorning a wall is a massive canvas with an original 2003 Maurice Sendak illustration of a “Wild Thing” drawn for the Rosenbach Museum & Library (not for sale).

Overall, the shop’s selection is limited by its size, but this charming shop may be worth it for those interested in rare literature or the au-

thors featured at the museum. This may mean offering more from your pockets, but the shop's friendly staff and logical organization make for easy shopping. For those wary of making the trek to 20th for a tiny shop, you can make a day of it and check out the museum too ($5 student admission).

spring shopping guide

ENTER THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP

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34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

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spring shopping guide

VIX Emporium|Photo by Megan Ruben

spring shopping guide

Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction|Photo by Sarah Tse

Piper|Photo by Sarah Tse Astro|Photo by Frida Garza

Briar Vintage|Photo by Sarah Tse

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34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

Milk & Honey|Photo by Sarah Tse

Jack Wills|Photo by Sarah Tse

House of Tea|Photo by Adrian Franco

Bonded|Photo by Sarah Tse

Free People|Photo by Sarah Tse

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spring shopping guide

HONEY BUNCHES OF AWESOME Put on your locavore hat and hop on over to 45th and Balt By lauren reed–guy | Photos by Sarah Tse

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ne part deli counter, one part food market, Milk & Honey is a slice of foodie heaven for West Philadelphia’s organic, locavore set.

Located a hop, skip and a jump away at 45th and Baltimore, the little corner store boasts hardwood floors and a whole lot of natural light,

thanks to floor–to–ceiling windows looking out on the West Philly streets. There are a few tables along the windows for Milk & Honey’s dine–in clientele to eat lunch and people–watch.

Behind the counter, Milk & Honey serves up sandwiches, pastries, smoothies, coffee and ice cream (house–made milkshakes will return in the spring). In addition to (notably delicious) prepared foods, the counter also offers a selection of cheeses (some local and some European) and meats

Exactly what you wouldn't expect to find inside of a dry cleaners By leah steinberg | photos by sarah tse

MILK & HONEY 4435 Baltimore Ave. milkandhoneymarket.com

What you'll find there: Hard–to–find and high–quality (and often local) foodstuffs Bottom Line: Way fresher than FroGro, but with less variety or choice

from the farms of Lancaster County.

Though some things, like hummus, are made in–house, Milk & Honey brings in a lot of its offerings from other Philadelphian eateries: they sell Bassett’s ice cream, bread from Metropolitan Bakery, cheese made by Claudio’s in the Italian Market and so on.

In the grocery department, the selection is somewhat limited, but if you’re in the market for specialty and organic food, Milk & Honey is a welcome alternative to Fresh Grocer — if you can afford it.

Their high prices and relatively limited selection will probably prevent Milk & Honey from becoming your go–to source of food, but where else are you going to find your favorite locally–harvested honey and apple butter?

Local food is Milk & Honmadeartisans by independent artisans made bymade independent artisans by independent ey’s battle cry, so when it comes to produce, expect seasonal — don’t hold your breath for Chilean blueberries or CaliforMENTION THIS nia avocadoes. What they do AD FOR 10% OFF offer is a decent selection of organic fruits and veggies from ONE ITEM! small Pennsylvania farms. For those with dietary restrictions, *One offer per customer Milk & Honey is a good store to add to your grocery repertoire, as they stock things like soymilk and gluten–free flour art. homeand & cake bath jewelry.jewelry. art. home & bath goods. art. homejewelry. & bath goods. mixes.goods. apparel. accessories. novelties. apparel.apparel. accessories. novelties. accessories. novelties.

Next time you’re in the gifts for too. you & you. too. gifts for you for & you. too. gifts youbabies & you. babies moodbabies to wander down to Baltimore, stop off for a sandwich 5009 Baltimore West Philly 5009 Baltimore Avenue, West Philly 5009 Baltimore Avenue, West Philly Avenue, or a croissant and boost your 215.471.7700 vixemporium.com 215.471.7700 vixemporium.com 215.471.7700 vixemporium.com foodie cred by supporting local and sustainable food.

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Unique Gifts & Cards Unique GiftsGifts & Cards Unique & Cards 34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

GOLD BONDED

Local Local Crafts & Artful WaresCrafts Local Crafts & Artful Wares & Artful Wares

B

onded Boutique is cleverly situated in the dry cleaners near 37th and Spruce. It’s kind of like the candy strategically placed next to grocery store checkouts because it gets you when you’re bored and a little desperate. It’s brilliant.

Clothes might look nice and gleaming when they’re picked up from the dry cleaner, but when you drop them off, they’re rumpled and stained, and Bonded capitalizes on this moment of optimal retail vulnerability — anything that isn’t yours looks desirable. And the price? Money never seems to be worth so little as when you are paying $30 to dry clean a dress. Bonded Boutique has its customers cornered.

Bonded is pretty small. It has a table with tanks and gifts and a rack of nicer clothes, like dresses and coats. One black dress was form–fitted with a mesh neckline that ended in dainty cap sleeves, resulting in a more demure take on the ubiquitous bandage dress. A brown tweed coat didn’t look very warm, but it also didn’t look like everything you’ve been seeing on everyone for the past few months.

The boutique itself is a good place to grab a dress for a date party or some other glitzy event, especially if you’re short on time and determined not to match with everyone who had the same Urban Outfitters idea that you did. All the while, an armoire of jewelry and a spacious and fancy dressing room with a pretty chair and flowing drapes make you forget you’re sandwiched between Tbowl and that uniform place.

The best thing they had, though, was nylon teddy bears ($15) that unzip to reveal a useful tote. They’re a

BONDED BOUTIQUE 3724 Spruce St. (215) 382–1890 What you'll find there: Standard boutique–wear and a few cute surprises Bottom line: Nothing wrong — and even quite a bit that’s right — with a boutique that's in a dry cleaning place

perfect impulse buy to maybe regret later. They’re so cutesy that they’re ridiculous, but they’re also sort of utilitarian, so it’s easy to talk yourself into making the purchase.

If you reason that it’s a last minute birthday present for just about anyone, you’ve crafted a sound rationale.

Is this the best boutique ever? No. But a lot of the things are really cute, and it’s an effective diversion from a mundane errand. It also gets you thinking about the possibilities of two–timing storefronts. Clothes and frozen yogurt? Donuts and magazines? OK, well clearly neither of those ideas are great, but it’s a process.

Oh, and at Bonded, a gumball machine dispenses buttons for 25 cents. Kind of a rip–off, but it’s also pretty cute. Like the rest of the store.

spring shopping guide

THE PENN PIPER

A new campus boutique has three legs up on its competition: Location, Location, Location

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one can’t help but notice the made–in–the–third–world tags. In the end it’s up to you as you eye that reasonably– priced, vivid yellow crocheted sweater whether to take the plunge or not. And honestly, since it's right on campus, you have the gift of time to mull it over; just don’t wait too long or it could be gone.

A safe alternative to dime– a–dozen chain stores, Piper is a pleasant and hassle–free shopping experience that caters to just about all of the Penn ladies.

PIPER 140 S. 34th St. facebook.com/piperboutique What you'll find there: On–trend but unremarkable women's wear Bottom line: Just close enough to be worth going to

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34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

By alexa nicolas | Photos by Sarah Tse ou are a customer of Ales- base, but it also detracts from sandra Coffenberg, the the boutique’s personality. owner of Penn's latest bou- The clothing is "Penn affordtique. You've got style and, able," with tops in the $40 since you’re at Penn, you’re range, skirts at about $60 and probably busy. Piper’s ob- denim just topping $100. If scenely convenient location that doesn’t suit your style, right off of Walnut on 34th a 40%–off sale rack neatly means there’s no excuse not graces a side wall. to at least peruse the bouThe real disappointment tique’s collection. Bombing comes in quality. An undethat Econ exam might be ex- niably synthetic spectrum, actly what you need for a lit- from polyester to rayon and tle post–Van Pelt marathon blends in between, inundate shopping escape. the racks of otherwise decent As you enter Piper, a friend- fashions. And honestly, for ly salesperson and a standard the prices and boutique labels, boutique set–up will greet you. The store is arranged in a typically minimalist manner. A nature–themed jewelry display with necklaces laid atop branches lies in the center of the small space. Racks of brightly–colored clothes line the walls. Unlike many of the other campus clothing stores, where dozens of duplicates await like–minded customers, Piper carries only a few of each item. So while the convenient location may mean everyone knows where you got that cute top from, you may be one of the only lucky girls to have snagged it.

Though small, Piper carries a variety of colors, styles and cuts of dresses, skirts, sweaters, jeans and shirts, which makes for a versatility that allows for a broader customer

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spring shopping guide 34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012 12

THE BRITISH ARE COMING

Or rather, they’re already here, and they’ve brought with them a bloody brilliant collection of preppy basics

By ZEKE SEXAUER | Photos by sarah tse

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ack Wills, purveyor of all things preppy and British (and a favorite of Princess Kate and her regal hubby) opened up shop in Philadelphia back in September. The Rittenhouse Row boutique is the retailer’s 11th location in the U.S., but its first to be located in a city as decidedly non–preppy as Philly (its other stores tend to be located in the meccas of American prepdom known as New England and D.C.).

Walking into the historical limestone mansion that houses the store is like walking into a WASP’s wet dream — Jack

Wills is selling a lifestyle, and it’s selling it hard. Vintage books, antique clocks and the occasional taxidermied pheasant rest atop racks of corduroy pants and shawl–collared cardigans. In the back, a Victorian couch upholstered with Union Jacks sits in front of a foosball table while Vampire Weekend plays in the background. Portraits of British royalty and vintage posters from Oxford–Cambridge rugby matches line the walls of the gigantic staircase that takes you to the women’s section, where a headless mannequin in pink lingerie lies on a mattress in such a way that makes you feel mildly paraphilic.

Jack Wills brands itself as a “University Outfitter,” and its clothes are made to appeal to the college– aged crowd. If Ralph Lauren had a hip younger brother who picked up a British accent while at Eton, his name would be Jack Wills. And like Ralph

37 N. Third Street · Philadelphia, PA 19106 · 267-671-0737 · · vagabondboutique.com ·

JACK WILLS 1617 Walnut St. jackwills.com What you'll find there: Preppy wardrobe basics with slimmer cuts than its American counterparts Bottom line: Expensive but classic, well–made items that should last years

Lauren, Jack Wills excels at making simple, high–quality preppy basics, but with a cut that’s more SoHo than Upper East Side.

Jack Wills is a godsend for skinny white boys who are picky about the fit of their clothes (surely I’m not the only one?). Their Bayswell Chinos ($89.50) and Calver Slim–Leg Cords ($98.50) fit perfectly, and come in a number of bright yet versatile colors. I tried on a pair of jeans that were a bit too tight — not quite moose–knuckle tight, but they still made me feel like I should cut my bangs asymmetrically and get a job at Hot Topic in order for them to truly fit. The blazers seemed very nicely–tailored, and there's a good selection of button– downs, polos and sweaters in classic colors and patterns.

The women’s line continues the trend of simple, classic prep items. The mixture of menswear–inspired pieces like trousers, button–downs and boyfit blazers, and more feminine items like the high– waisted Ashcott Skirt ($79.50) and the Farelton Dress ($148) (with little sailboats on it!) form the staples of any New England chic wardrobe.

While the clothes aren’t cheap, they're made well. As long as you stay away from the overly–branded T–shirts and stick to the classic, well–made pieces, Jack Wills is the perfect place to stock up on essential items that will remain an essential part of any prep wardrobe for years to come.

APTLY–NAMED STORE The title says it all

By patrick del valle | photos by sarah tse

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he best way to describe Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction is if your standard hipster–hangout had a love child with a general store from The Oregon Trail. Part apothecary, part distillery, part printing press and part boutique, Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction is eclectic to say the least. The long, open space exudes an artisan sensibility and, despite its broad offerings, the sense of being highly–curated.

In between racks of well– chosen earth–tone coats and glass cases filled with handmade jewelry (one standout is a necklace with desert crystal wrapped in a bullet casing, for a cool $340), you’ll find beautiful house–made wall prints and cashmere beanies. And then there are the perfumes.

Oh, the perfumes. The fragrances in Art in the Age are a far cry from the often artificial and sickly sweet scents you might find at Sephora. Even the most untrained nose can tell that the fragrances here are markedly more complex, smelling like something that was made in small batches, rather than in a factory — perhaps the best of these is Hunter by MCMC ($45 for 9mL), which smells like summer.

The clientele and workers at Art in the Age are what you might expect at such an establishment. Customer service was quite standard, though the two women working behind the counter seemed a little more interested in exchanging the results of their star chart readings than with helping the next person in line.

Something that Art in the Age certainly emphasizes is its line of organic spirits.

With names such as “Root” and “Snap,” these artisanal

ART IN THE AGE OF MECHANICAL REPRODUCTION 116 N. 3rd St. artintheage.com What you'll find there: Well–made clothing, booze and fragrances Bottom line: Artisinal items that are worth the splurge

alcohols focus on the use of carefully–selected ingredients and small–batch brewing. Though the walls of Art in the Age are decorated with bottles of the alcohol, you’ll have to make the trek to your local Wine and Spirits to pick up a bottle ($36.00 for 750mL).

In general, Art in the Age is something of an experiential store, with plenty of items that are better off observed than actually purchased — e.g. a hand– stitched quilt ($1150), or a “deluxe coffee thermos” ($200). In fact, going to Art in the Age is a treat in and of itself. Picking through well– constructed shirts and taking in the smells of tobacco, old wood and vanilla makes Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction feel like a relic of a time when true craftsmanship was valued.

spring shopping guide

PRETTY COLORS

An Old City standout with Old City prices

By Laura francis | PHOTOS BY SARAH TSE

K

aleidoscope Boutique holds true to its title. It’s a trendy little store, hosting a variety of chic designer clothing with a psychedelic twist.

A sapphire dress, simple in the front and flashy in the back, greets passers–by from the door and shows off the flair of the place. It’s classy, but with a funky edge.

The whole ambiance of the place plays off of this vibe, making Kaleidoscope a fun walk–through, if nothing else. A mannequin strapped in a leather jacket sits atop a motorcycle behind the counter, and plush chairs and couches are scattered about the space's open floor.

A chain–link curtain drapes from the ceiling, and mirrors reflect wall–to–wall. Despite

the potential for discordance, however, Kaleidoscope manages not to feel too cluttered.

It’s cleanly–designed and doesn’t act pretentious.

In fact, the mix proves to be one of the store’s highlights. Whatever a shopper’s taste, Kaleidoscope likely has something to fit. Shirts studded with skulls hang on racks not far from understated dresses. The boutique offers cutout swimsuits from designers like Chio — think Sports Illustrated — along with flowy pieces from designers like Miki Mialy — think springtime and nature.

There’s Brian Lichtenberg across from vintage Chanel.

It’s like having the essences of Lady Gaga and Zooey Deschanel somehow coherently

Kaleidoscope Boutique 151 N. 3rd St.

kaleidoscopeboutique.com What you'll find there: Trendy and cool designer clothing with psychedelic accents Bottom line: A notable boutique even among its numerous Old City competitors

embodied in the same place.

Kaleidoscope's selection of accessories adds spark to the already eclectic collection.

Retro hats with wispy feathers seem almost like decorations. Miniature busts don necklaces with scissors and

mustaches, and other jewelry made with guns and crosses gleam inside their cases. It’s the combination of classy clothing and a slightly offbeat atmosphere that allows the boutique to hold its own with other shops in this strip of Old City.

What makes the store stand out, however, also produces its drawback. All that ambiance doesn’t come cheap, so make no mistake — they have designer clothes at designer prices. Much of the boutique’s merchandise rises over several hundred, easily busting most student budgets. If you’re looking for a splurge, then Kaleidoscope delivers. If not, a trip here could turn to a quick browse through high price tags.

THE REAL DEAL

A vintage store that’s worth the trip

By Frida Garza | Photos by frida garza

A

stro Vintage on 5th and Passyunk does not use the term “vintage” lightly.

When you step into this boutique, you’ll find yourself transported into a time full of snazzy bowties, prim handbags and crazy fuzzy sweaters.

The store’s wide selection, combined with their homey atmosphere and great customer service, makes this locale a must for any seasoned (or novice) thrifter. Located

just a few blocks away from the heart of South Street, Astro Vintage will help you get in touch with your inner hipster grandma.

The place is quaint but edgy, consisting of two rooms painted bright blue.

There’s a dressing room in a corner sectioned off by sheets and clothespins. Despite the store’s modest dimensions, Astro is jam–packed with quality vintage gear. Each

ASTRO VINTAGE 702 S. 5th St. What you'll find there: Unique vintage women's wear and home accessories Bottom line: This place is the shit

lacey dresses of every shade of pastel. Some of the clothing selection may not be practical for a modern–day college

w

student — but their timeless style will inspire you to dress up for no reason at all.

If you’re not used to this kind of vintage shopping experience, it may take some courage to approach the clothing racks — but the reward will be great. Astro Vintage can be the solution to your everybody–wears–the– same–shirts–I–do problem.

Take the plunge and see what they have in store for you.

5 BARS UNDER 1 ROOF 44 TAPS - CRAFT BEERS AVAILABLE HOME OF THE 20 OZ IMPERIAL PINT SIXERS/FLYERS GAMES BEER AND FOOD SPECIALS NEW POOL TABLE English Premier League and European Champions League Soccer on over 21 TV’s throughout all the bars.

HAPPY HOUR 5-7PM 421 S. 2nd Street • 215-928-9307 • www.darkhorsepub.com

34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

rack is bursting with clothes of every color or geometric print. The store also features jewelry, old–fashioned analog cameras and luggage pieces that inspire wanderlust. The whole place has a distinctly welcoming vibe and storeowner Karin Tyburczy, a petite blonde woman with librarian eyeglasses and a bubbly personality, will guide you through the store to find whatever you’re looking for.

But the most refreshing thing about Astro is that the clothes sold are actually vintage. The boutique houses an eclectic collection of clothes from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s — and they’re always receiving new additions. Peruse the racks and you’ll encounter chiffon dresses, pencil skirts, and leather jackets that harken back to a simpler time.

Explore a little more and you’ll find animal–print secretary blouses, rugged cowboy boots and varsity stripe sweaters. There are hats for every occasion and long–sleeved

13

spring shopping guide

TEAS FOR ALL SEASONS

An impressive selection of teas for anyone who likes the occassional cuppa to the most discriminating connoisseur

By IAN "SPOOKY" BUSSARD and elizabeth horkley | Photo by Adrian franco

T

he creation of an architect–turned–circus clown–turned–pastry chef– turned tea connoisseur, The House of Tea greets one with a surprisingly subdued interior — aside from the Barnum and Bailey Clown College class photo that hangs ominously over a doorframe.

Despite the shop’s zany origins (the store is now owned by the aforementioned renaissance man’s daughter), it offers a truly remarkable variety of teas from every corner of the world, with a friendly staff happy to share their vast knowledge of the store’s offerings.

The intimidating number of teas, stored in beautiful brass jars of black and gold, are stacked atop one another in apothecary–style mahogany compartments covering

HOUSE OF TEA 720 S. 4th St. houseoftea.com What you'll find there: A well–stocked variety of luxury teas, from greens to blacks Bottom Line: Exceptionally helpful service and exceptionally aromatic teas

an entire wall. There’s even a ladder that scales the wall, able to swing from one side to the next.

The tea selection comes from Germany by way of China, Japan, Taiwan and Sri Lanka. Some of the jars still even bear the picturesque logo of France’s world–class Mariage Freres house of tea, who they used to partner with directly. Looking past their impressive pedigrees, glamorous packaging and

names like “Sword of the Emperor,” these teas really have been lovingly curated for every taste.

With over 200 choices to pick from at any time, you’ll find dozens of greens, rows upon rows of blacks and even a sprinkling of the rarer (and more steeply–priced) pu– erh and white teas. Though some may be disappointed

by The House of Tea’s scant selection of tisanes, the other

choices more than compensate for this lack — try (and by try, we mean smell) the Gold Yunnan, the Gyokuro Jade Dew and the Lavender Earl Grey. And if you have no idea what any of this means, don’t despair — the staff will lead you toward the tea of your dreams by way of your olfactory senses. Take

VIXTEEN CANDLES

This West Philly institution lets local crafters hawk their wares

By Megan ruben | Photo by megan ruben

W

34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

e know, Mommy and Daddy have warned you about the perils of West Philly. Well, VIX Emporium and its number of visitors beg to differ. Sporting West Philly pride in everything from badass sweatshirts to the works of local artisans, this gift/craft/body care store fails to confine itself to a single category.

Around since the 1940s, the venue maintains the same beautiful wooden displays that once held the quirky hat selections of Philadelphian fashionistas of yore. VIX still has quite the hat collection, but the store’s true bragging rights lie in its sheer variety of trinkets.

From Prince–inspired earrings to embroidered flasks, Vix is a small store with a not–so–small collection.

Paintings, crocheted decor, 14 T–shirts and photographs

ored wallets. At the register, a glass case entertains both a fruit–inspired necklace collection and a lace–based jewelry set, while pins featuring Tim What you'll find there: Burton, Marilyn Monroe and Handmade trinkets, knickknacks, a variety of skulls litter the sweatshirts, purses and more counter.

Bottom Line: A hand–made Though the eclectic array haven not too far from campus of merchandise could occupy climb the walls while Japa- anyone for hours, one of the nese–style ceramics and min- more unique aspects of this iature hand–painted sculp- already unconventional store tures decorate a long wooden lies just to the right of the display running the length of front door. A number of what the room. Whether you’re can only be referred to as minlooking for a quirky gift or iature exhibitions inhabit this some trendy houseware, VIX brightly–lit corner of VIX, a offers a quick route to Bo- space surprisingly conducive hemian glory. A bath and to an artistic display. For the body section offers soaps and rest of February, the works of perfumes with beautifully– Corina Dross will grace this detailed labels. A shelf over, corner of crafty glory, with drool–worthy hand decorated the winding black contours purses bask in vintage splen- of her cartoon–like figures dor, not to be outshined by a appearing on everything from nearby display of boldly–col- postcards to calendars. Not only are her works reason-

VIX EMPORIUM 5009 Baltimore Ave. vixemporium.com

ably–priced, ranging from around $3 to $25 for the larger illustrations, but they adopt an air of informality that seems to encourage their candid humor. Her current series, titled "Portable Fortitude," is based upon the backdrop of a deck of cards. These hand– decorated, doodle–esque playing cards are converted into magnets, each with an illustrated talismanic phrase to encourage good luck and protection. A new artist is featured and honored with a wine and cheese reception at the store every month.

So when you don’t have anything to buy, VIX can still offer you plenty to look at. If for nothing else, check out this corner of Baltimore to admire the quirkiness of style that silently reigns over the West Philly you thought you knew.

your time and ask as many questions as you want.

Some of the prices may prompt a raise of the eyebrows, but a hearty whiff of most blends will subdue any nerves and justify any surprising price tags. You get exactly what you pay for at The House of Tea, in the most complimentary sense.

Vix Boutique 5009 Baltimore Ave. (not on map) Page 14

Rosenbach Museum & Library 2008 Delancey St. Page 7

Piper Boutique 140 S. 34th St. Page 11

Beautiful World Syndicate 1619 E. Passyunk Ave. (not on map) Page 6

Free People 1725 Walnut St. Page 4

Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction 116 N. 3rd St. Page 12

Jack Wills Kaleidoscope 1617 Walnut St. 151 N. 3rd St. Page 12 Page 13

House of Tea 720 S. 4th St. Page 14

Briar Vintage 62 N. 3rd St. Page 3

34TH STREET Magazine February 22, 2012

Bonded Boutique 3724 Spruce St. Page 10

Milk and Honey 4441 Baltimore Ave. Page 10

spring shopping guide

MAP

15

Dine.

Dine.

Dine.

Shop.

Think inside theThink Square. inside the Square. Dine.

Shop.

Meet.

Meet.

Meet.

Food.

Fun. And more.

Dine.

Food. Fashion.

Fashion.

Fun. And more.

Shop.

Meet.

On the campus.

Food.

Fun. And more.

OnFashion. the Penn Penn campus.

Food. Fashion. Fun. And more.

On the Penn campus.

On the Penn campus.

Dine.

1923 Ice Rink Adof Biecker Salon American Apparel Ann Taylor Loft Artisserie Choc Cafe Avril 50 Au Bon Pain Auntie Anne’s Baby Blues BBQ Beijing Restaurant Ben & Jerry’s Blue Mercury Bobby’s Burger Palace Bonded Cleaners Campus Copy Ctr Capogiro Gelato Cavanaugh’s Chipotle Citizens Bank Citta Pizzeria

Meet.

Meet.

Dine. www.universitysquare.biz International House Penne Restaurant

City Tap House Computer Connection Cosi CVS Pharmacy Distrito Dolbey’s Medical Bookstore Drinker’s West Dunkin’ Donuts Eastern Mt Sports Eye Encounters Fresh Grocer Furniture Lifestyle Gap Gia Pronto Greek Lady Han Wool Hilton Inn At Penn House of Our Own Hummus

www.universitysquare.biz Jimmy John’s Philly Runner

Slought Foundation Smokey Joe’s Starbucks Coffee Sweetgreen T-Bowl TD Bank Thai Singha House Trophy Bikes UPS Store Urban Outfitters US Post Office Vog International Verizon Wawa White Dog Cafe Won Oriental World Cafe Live

Joseph Anthony Picnic Food. www.universitysquare.biz Fashion.

Fun. And Kiwi Yogurt Pipermore.

Boutique Pizza Hut/Taco Bell The Last Word www.universitysquare.biz Mad 4 Mex Pizza Rustica On the Penn campus.

The Marvelous Pod Mediterranean Café Metropolitan Bakery Modern Eye Nan Modern Food Natural Shoe Store New Deck Tavern New Delhi The Pastry Shop Pattaya Grill Penn Book Center Penn Bookstore Penn Bookstore Cafe Penn Campus Barber

Meet.

Potbelly Sandwich Qdoba Mexican Grill Quiznos Sub Radio Shack Rave Cinema Restaurant School Rose’s Florist The Rotunda Saladworks Saturn Hair Club SangKee Saxby’s Sheraton

Food. Fashion. Fun. And more.

Food.www.universitysquare.biz Fashion. Fun. And more.

On the campus.

For aPenn complete list of retail establishments in University Square, visit www.ucnet.com/universitysquare On the Penn campus.