Halloween Costumes for the Recession-Savvy Gal
A lot has changed in the past two years: a college degree no longer guarantees you a job, birthday presents from your parents now consist of one more month of health insurance and a couple packets of Starbucks Via, and extravagant Halloween costumes purchased online are just a fond memory.
So, what is the fabulous and frugal Halloween lover to do? Here are my tips for creative costumes straight from your closet.
Stepford Wife: Combine a pastel cardigan, floral dress and nude heals. Add in some pearl jewelry, airbrushed makeup, perfectly quaffed hair and the apron your mom gave you for graduation (finally an excuse to wear it!) and TA DA! You’ve been transformed in to a trophy robot wife. Extra points for freshly baked cookies and a vacant expression. 
College Freshman: Find your shortest jean skirt, a cheap Forever 21 party top and pop on your ugg boots. Add a teased bump in your hair, fully line your eyes in black liner and gob on the mascara for the authentic look of a clueless 17 year old. Major kudos for carrying both a backpack and Coach purse.
Meghan McCain: In light of the recent buzz around her Twitter account, this costume is particularly timely. All you need for this one is a black low cut tank, Andy Worhol book, and the best damn push up bra you have. Pull back your bangs with a workout head-band, add a Vote McCain campaign pin and prepare for the media firestorm!
Happy Halloween!
Fall shows I LOVE and the wines that pair best.
I’m not going to lie to you. Lately, I’ve been working really late (long stories, yeah, plural) anyway, some days, after a stressful day at work, I’ve been forgoing the gym and hitting the couch to discover some of this season’s new shows from the comfort of my DVR.
This occasional habit of mine is sometimes accompanied by a glass of wine, and over the past couple of weeks, not only have I discovered some amazing wines, I’ve also found my share of great new fall shows that make even a long day at work fade away.
So, here are my recommendations for wine and shows for you to enjoy when you just don’t feel like hitting the treadmill.
Eastwick with Tuscan Moon Sangiovese: This show just began last week, so I can’t guarantee it’s going to be a season-long winner, but so far, I’ve enjoyed the Sex and the City-esque banter, Practical Magic-ish story line and female empowerment angle. This mix of magic, sex and power pair perfectly with the bold yet smooth flavors of the sangiovese. Don’t expect anything deep here, but with Halloween on the way, what could be better than this?
Glee with Argyle Chardonnay: Officially my favorite show of the season, Glee is a perfect combination of hit pop music and popular show tunes with off, sometimes awkward comedy. The actors are talented and the show is just original enough that my boyfriend doesn’t hate it. Best paired with the deep flavors of this chardonnay (to balance out the fluff).
Drop Dead Diva with Rootstock Sauvignon Blanc: This show has been getting a lot of press lately, good and bad. But I have to say, regardless of what you think of the premise of the show, the roles are well cast and the characters are charming and funny. Love it with a good sauvignon blanc like Rootstock, which is approachable, well balanced and not too sweet, just like the show. 
Melrose Place with any good red table wine: Believe it, my friends. The new millenium version of this primetime drama is complex and surprisingly dark. While you may not love it at first, give it a chance. Compared to Gossip Girl and 90210, this is the one to watch. Just like the repeat premise of the show, the wine that pairs best with this one is that half a bottle of table red leftover from last weekend.
With several premiers still scheduled on the DVR, I’m sure there will be more great shows and pairings on the way. Can you say The Hills? The City? Lost? Amazing Race? Can’t wait!
Got a good show and wine pairing? Let me know!
