Sisters & Cupcakes: The Perfect Combo, Chatting with star sisters of TLC's DC Cupcake! Plus win a DOZEN cupcakes!

FABulous sisters, Sophie and Katherine run one of the most successful cupcake bakeries in Washington, DC known as "Georgetown Cupcake." Trading their corporate jobs for a sweeter gig - their passion for baking the best cupcakes around. The line is constantly out the door and around the corner as cupcake lovers stand in line for the perfect cupcake. And yes, we mean perfect! The cupcake menu is drool worthy with flavors like PB Fudge, Lemon Blossom, Mint Cookies & Cream and oh my goodness, we could go on for days. They are by far, the most delicious cupcakes we have ever had and believe us when we say - we have had a lot of cupcakes! But, it isn't just about the cupcakes - these ladies are just as sweet! Read our one on one chat with the best bakers in town! Oh, and don't worry - they ship!

1.) Georgetown is such an amazing place! One of my favorites - the people, the places and of course, the cupcakes! What inspired Georgetown Cupcake?

Our grandmother was a huge influence on us growing up and taught us everything we know about baking. We loved baking with her, and we always dreamed of opening a bakery together some day. Finally, three years ago, we said “Let’s do it” because if we don’t do it now, we never will. So we both quit our jobs and took the plunge and opened Georgetown Cupcake on Valentine’s Day 2008.

2.) Being sisters, do you find it hard to work together?

We actually find it easier because we can be completely honest with each other and get into very heated “sister” fights and neither of us takes it personally. You can’t fight with other co-workers like you can with your sister. We don’t need to worry about hurting each other’s feelings — we tell it like it is! Then, even if we get into an intense argument with each other, ten minutes later, we’ll be grabbing lunch together.

3.) Do you have a favorite cupcake? If so, why?

Katherine: My favorite flavor is a toss up between Peanut Butter Fudge and Salted Caramel. I’m a sucker for salty-sweet!

Sophie: My favorite flavor is Chocolate Hazelnut...it reminds me of Nutella...which I was obsessed with when I was younger!!

4.) What do we have to look forward to going into Season 2 of DC Cupcakes?

Lots of fun stuff! Our cupcake sculptures get bigger and way more difficult. During the season, we do everything from making a wedding dress out of cupcakes, to making glow-in-the-dark cupcakes, to baking in the Pentagon, to almost getting arrested!! Also, there is a big surprise in the season finale!!

5.) Besides cupcakes - do you have any other favorite recipes or things you love to bake?

We love to bake fresh bread. We both love the smell of freshly baked bread!!

6.) Have you ever thought about writing a book?

We are working on our first book right now – which will be coming out by next November! We are super excited to be able to share all of our childhood memories and our cupcake recipes with our fans!

Katherine – Ten Things About Me

When I fly, I always choose the middle seat. I’m terrified of flying and when I sit in between two people, I feel safe!

I collect Essie nail polishes in every single shade of pink.

My favorite movie is “Bride Wars”. I’ve seen it 12 times!

I’m terrified of going to the dentist. I actually jumped out of the chair once and left in the middle of a procedure!

My favorite flowers are pink peonies.

My favorite band is The Killers. I could listen to their albums all day long and not get sick of them!

I’m named after our grandmother, who taught us how to bake.

I love cleaning! I’m a total neat freak...except for my closet which is a total disaster!

My favorite food is Greek. I’m addicted to Greek olives!

My favorite cereal is Peanut Butter Puffins.

 

Sophie – Ten Things About Me

I’m left-handed.

I love French Vanilla coffee. I can’t function without it!

I never wear my glasses because I can never find them.

My favorite shampoo is Oribe. I love love love the smell!

I hate trying on clothes when shopping. I always make Katherine try them on for me, then buy a size smaller!

My favorite TV show was Arrested Development.

I’m named after our great-grandmother.

I live across the street from Katherine.

I love almond milk.

I’m paranoid of swimming in open water. I only swim in pools.

 

 

Are you ready to win a dozen of the most delish cupcakes you will ever lay your teeth into? Read on to enter to win a dozen FABulous cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcake!

 

Make sure you tune in to the season 2 premiere of DC Cupcakes this Friday, Feb. 25th

on TLC at 10pm. Set your TiVo now!

NYFW: Milly by Michelle Smith

By Tiffany Olson

If the fall 2011 Milly show does not inspire you to take some fashion risks, then I'm not sure what will.  Bright, bold lip color? Don't mind if I do.  Velvet gloves with a fabulous hat?  Bring it on.  Leopard with teal, or hot pink with crush orange?  It works.  (Note: This entire collection makes me want to throw away all the blah sweaters and jeans in my closet and start over.)  

Some of the trends in the show were velvet jackets, bright silk blouses, long hemlines, sassy tights, see though lace pieces, hats galore, colorful gloves and bold prints mixed with solids. 

In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Milly designer Michelle Smith said this about her inspiration for this collection. “I think trends from the 70s are perfect for right now. Also, I design around the fabrics I choose. This season, I’ve been using luxuriously textured materials, like mohair, suede and tweeds. To balance the heavier looks, I’m including fluid silky dresses, some bias cuts and evening pieces.”

One thing we noticed about these looks is that even though by some standards, some of the outfits would be considered a little over the top for every day wear, they are all indeed very wearable.  No impractical shoes or overly sexy dresses.  Just fun, wearable, FABULOUS pieces!  If you mixed and matched some of these looks to fit your style, we’d say you’ve got a great start on an amazing fall wardrobe!

We LOVE One Kings Lane

{Click HERE to join NOW!}

Just like our other favorite sale sites - Gilt, Ideeli, HauteLook and well, the list goes on - we just LOVE One Kings Lane. One Kings Lane is our favorite destination for private sales on home decor, accessories and gifts. With prices up to 70% off every day -- you just can't beat it! 

Check out some of top picks -- grab them now before they are SOLD OUT!

Jane Marvel Puddle Jumper Bag, $59

Retail Price $129

Austrian Crystal Pink Sparkle Round Box, $89

Retail Price $245 

John Robshaw Duvet, $199

Retail Price $425

Beauty Item of the Week: H20

By Emily Ehlers

We just got news that the high here in Florida will be 77 degrees today, which totally got me in the mood for some gotta-have-it spring items! I wanted to share one of my absolute favorite products with you all. H20 is a skincare brand that is based off of all natural sea minerals, and offers a great variety from bath/body, to skin and hair care, as well as fun little gifts. H20 body lotions and scrubs come in fun, colorful scents like 'tango mango' and 'blushing orange', but for you ladies(and gents) in need of a skin firming solution-they've got that as well! One of my personal staples this winter was H20 sunless tanner (face) and sunless tanner (body). You simply apply it after a shower just like lotion, and wait for it to settle. Nobody can ever tell the difference, and it looks flawless! So, if you're in the mood for Spring, take a moment to indulge in this awesome line.

NYFW FAVE: Carlos Miele Fall 2011

By Tiffany Olson

We can sum up Carlos Miele's Fall 2011 collection in 2 words: luxurious and glamorous.  (And when we say glamorous, we don't mean that song "G-L-A-M-O-R-OUS", we mean luxe, elaborate, possibly dripping in diamonds, glamorous.)  

The show featured draping fabrics, pops of color, and lush fabrics in rich textures.  Braiding, ruching, intricate beading... it was all in this collection.  These are the kind of dresses that make a woman float, no matter how graceful she actually is.  Feminine yet vibrant looks tend to be the mainstay for most Carlos Miele collections - a combination we have to agree is brilliant.  Clean, simple hair and makeup gave the clothes the center stage.   

Our favorite looks were actually the jumpsuits.  We can see Olivia Palermo running around NYC in the one of these jumpsuits with the head scarf to match.  

Get the Look on the Runway: Proenza Schouler

Paul Hanlon for Frederic Fekkai Creates a Pure, Coming-Undone Pony for 

Proenza Schouler’s Fall-Winter 2011 Fashion Week Runway Show

Inspiration:  Paul Hanlon sought to bring out the purity of the Proenza Schouler collection by keeping hair natural, glossy, and pulled back to accentuate an open neck. He envisioned the hair of a Navajo Indian girl meets an All American girl.  The result was hair all one length with soft, razored ends and a style that felt easy, wearable and chic, with a touch of grunge and coming undone. 

How to get the look:  By adding 22 inch extensions around the crown of the head and paying special attention to any areas with shorter layers, you can achieve a long languid silhouette ready to pull back into this chic pony.  Once finished, hair should rest just above the waist.  Start by parting the hair slightly off center and apply the Fekkai Coiff Strong Hold Volume Mousse to the front of the hair, forming a frame.  Next, apply the COIFF Perfecteur Anti-Frizz Silkening Crème and Fekkai Advanced Salon Technician Color Care Anti-Fade Top Coat to the hair, ironing the front pieces to seal in sleekness and shine.  Gather hair midway down the back and pull into a low ponytail and tie the end into a slight knot.  To finish the look, spray the Fekkai Coiff Oceanique Tousled Wave Spray and Fekkai Coiff Sheer Hold Hairspray; this will create a dry, rough texture for the back of the hair that makes the style feel relaxed, unique, and individualized.  

All Products by Fekkai:  Fekkai Coiff Strong Hold Volume Mousse ($24/5oz); COIFF Perfecteur Anti-Frizz Silkening Crème ($25/3.4oz); Fekkai Advanced Salon Technician Color Care Anti-Fade Top Coat ($23/1.7oz); Fekkai Coiff Oceanique Tousled Wave Spray ($24/5oz); Fekkai Coiff Sheer Hold Hairspray($24/5.8oz); ALL PRODUCTS ARE AVAILABLE AT FEKKAI.COM, FEKKAI SALONS, NORDSTROM, NEIMAN MARCUS, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE. 

About Frédéric Fekkai & Co.

Frédéric Fekkai & Co. is the leader in luxury hair care, offering a complete range of innovative products and exclusive, full-service salons. The Company is dedicated to creating a unique portrait of style for each individual. Fekkai products are distributed through the finest beauty retailers around the world and, of course, in the world famous Frédéric Fekkai Salons.  For more information visit: www.fekkai.com or visit us on Facebook:  www.Facebook/Fekkai 

Kim's Picks for Spring!

By Kim 

Hello readers! This is my first post for cupcakeMAG and I am honored to be involved with this amazing team! Not sure where everyone else is located, but no matter where you are, I think we are all itching for some spring, right? So what better to discuss here then my current list of  “Must Haves” for spring! 

Spring this year is all about the right accessory, bright colors and gold.  I love me some bling, but when I want to switch it up from bling I go bold, and there is nothing better than these bold and beautiful rings by YSL to liven up any spring attire!

It’s a challenge to decide between the turquoise, coral, and pink, I just love them all!  

{buy it!}

Speaking of turquoise, this color is going to be big this year. This necklace from Stella and Dot is a must have accessory. This was also seen on Jillian Harris from the Bachelor/Bachelorette!  

 

{buy it!}

Another alternative is this Max and Chloe Blu Bijoux Turquoise Teardrop Necklace 

{buy it!}

 

Every new season, means a new fabulous bag right? I love these Celine Cabas Totes. Simply and chic at the same time! And they come in so many styles and colors to go with absolutely everything.

{buy them!}

And this Mulberry Tillie Light Peach Haircalf….I am in love!

 

Last but not least we have shoes! A classic espadrille wedge. I have been seeing them popping up everywhere again this year, which makes me happy because they are one of my favorite parts of the warm weather arriving.  I have loved these classic wedge heels by Stuart Weitzman called the Alex for a while now. These would truly go with just about everything!

{buy it!}

And for some very affordable cute new spring sandals the Women's Xhilaration Tallis Espadrille Wedge Sandals - Animal Print from Target! These came in a ton of different colors, but I am in love with the leopard print. They are only $20!

 

{buy it!}

And these Women's Dolce Vita for Target®  Rope Wedge Sandals are to-die-for! 

{buy it!}

 

In the midst of the winter these snow storms I am spring shopping online to slowly bring some sunshine into my life. I love stocking up on the new spring essentials, the hard part is waiting to wear them!  

Happy Spring Shopping!!!

Tibi Tales: Dresses equal Perfection

By Tiffany Olson

{the final look}

Oh Tibi, you know how to make us swoon.  And get out our wallets. 

We have to say, in this year's fall collection, we loved the daywear pieces, but we ADORED the dressier options!!!  The red jumper??  We die.  The finale look?  We need.  Amazingly pretty, swoon worthy, and classic Tibi.  We can't get enough!

Backstage before the show, Tibi designer Amy Smilovic commented on the gap in retail prices:  "There's a gaping hole in the middle now.  No one wants to buy a $298 floral silk dress when you can get one just like it at Zara," Amy remarks. "You have to offer them something more."   She definitely offered something more with the intricate prints, appliques, and detailing on all the dresses.  The daywear looks were styled with hot pink beanies and arm warmers, and included a lot of calf length dresses and skirts. 

Once again, Tibi delivers wearable, lovable pieces that we know will be a big hit!! 

{the designer, Amy, backstage before the show}

Celebrities at this show: 

Tinsley Mortimer, SNL's Abby Elliot, Vanessa Hudgens, and the face of Tibi Spring 2011, 

Olivia Palermo.  

TELL US: Which look is your favorite?

NYFW: Always Obsessed with Callula Lillibelle

By Tiffany Olson

We might as well hand over our credit cards to Callula Lillibelle.  Their fall collection is so fabulous we are having a hard time coping with the fact that we have to wait until fall to wear it. (Psst… the line retails between only $90-$400 ladies.)

This line was made to “mix and match” and should be able to take you from work to drinks with the girls.   We all want to look amazing every day, but without the frenzied closet tornado routine while deciding what to wear.  Callula Lillibelle pieces aim to accommodate this wish, as the line seamlessly mixes and matches together for “fail-proof outfits.” 

We’re about to die to get our hands on the camel double front belted blazer.  Throw it on with skinnies, or dress shorts, and you’re done. 

Not familiar with Callula Lillibelle?  Here’s a recap:  “Callula Lillibelle is a 'desk to dinner' wardrobe collection for the modern woman with a focus on contemporary, feminine silhouettes at an agreeable price.  Debuted in the winter of 2010, Callula Lillibelle aims to simplify the dressing process while providing a chic complete wardrobe for the modern lifestyle.  Partnered by business-impresario Melanie Fraser Hart and couturier William Calvert the collection reflects the diverse range of women’s needs, including style, comfort and price.”

Here's our quick convo with designer William Calvert!!

CupcakeMAG: Tell us about your inspiration for this collection!

William Calvert: This is really about 21 facets of our girl. A girl we love, ya know, she's dynamic she can wear all of this.  She's polished, she's cool, she starting uptown, going downtown.  We started all over the place; we started with world domination, punk rock baroque, american & modernism...we went all over the place and ended up here, and we're pretty darn happy.

CupcakeMAG: Which look is your favorite?

William Calvert: Oh don't do that! They're my babies!  They're all good.  They all have a story.  Depends on what hour of the day!

We have to agree. This entire collection is indeed all good! 
(We can't wait to see some of these pieces in our closet!)

A Little Inspiration from Marie........

By Lauren Gonzalez

As I was painting my nails in “Punchy Pink” by Essie and listening to The Strokes, it hit me. I was having a Marie Antoinette moment. Well, at least a moment I think she’d have if she were a modern day gal like myself. I envision a similar bring fluorescent pink shade on her nails - embodying a youthful girl and a outgoing rebel all in one brushstroke. This concept took life when Kirsten Dunst played Marie in the Sofia Coppola film. The entire movie was eye candy with opulence seeping through the screen and causing my jaw to drop. The plot was scandalous and really - making it even more scandalous. 

Can you tell this movie inspires me beyond belief? First of all, if you haven’t seen it - I urge you to borrow/rent/buy it NOW! Secondly, take a peek at some of things I think Marie might fawn over if she was living her fabulous life today...

The movie has many gorgeous scenes with Kirsten in the most elegant wardrobe. When she wears blue, however, she just looks like she can do no wrong. This pale blue complement her fair skin and light hair. 

While looking at some of the most recent New York Fashion Week runway looks, I thought to myself, “Marie would definitely wear that out today!” To go with her light features, I picked some fun frocks that play with volume and texture and would more more than suitable for royalty to party in, too. 

1. Burberry  2. Christian Dior  3. Burberry 

I was pleasantly surprised when I came across this gorgeous collaboration of Louis Vuitton and none other than Sofia Coppola herself! She’s one of those people you want to be friends with, she’s effortlessly cool and real. Not to mention she has great style and a true eye for beauty, both on screen and on the street. My Marie pick for the collection is the “Slim Lambskin Gold” clutch. 

I could definitely see Marie toting that clutch around and wearing this ban.dō headband. The detail and craftsmanship in these headbands as well as the sheer beauty makes them a must have for anyone! This headband is appropriately named, “Glam Halo” and if you admire Marie Antoinette's love for head pieces but are looking for something more wearable...here it is.

The name of the game is opulence. Opulence and over-the-top glamour and sparkling details that will send your head reeling. This fancy footwear does not disappoint in this category. The Bourne “Kirsten” satin pumps have a simple front that allows for the the jeweled heel and voluminous back to be the focal point. They are absolutely stunning. The red Poetic License pumps have a  classic Marie feel to them. The warm rich colors and jewel flower above the bow would have melted the Queen’s heart...and then she’d just ask for another pair to be made. Nonetheless, these shoes could stand on their own as fabulous pieces. 

Marie Antoinette had an edgy side to her. In the movie she knew how to throw an incredible party and also found herself in the midst of a romantic scandal. Kirsten looks stunning as Marie in this black dress with an eye mask and feather in her hair. 

I couldn’t find a more perfect modern version than this Chanel look. The colors are perfect, and the dress and coat combination are an up-to-date version of the voluminous and edgy outfit from the movie. The headpiece completes the looks, and Marie would’ve had it no other way!

Throwing colorful parties and entertaining was something I craved after I saw the movie.  These items make me want to host the most extravagant party, all while fanning myself and hiding my beaming smile!

1. Cristal D’Arques Longchamp champagne flutes  2. Jonathan Adler lacquer tray  3. Declaration Boutique Paper and Bamboo Fans

“Let them eat cake.” This picture says it all. The woman had style and attitude. She left an impression on history and hopefully these last items I picked out will leave quite the impression on you...I think they’re fabulous!

This Carolina Herrera detailed white dress is breathtaking. It’s what I call the “movie star meets Marie” look. 

No doubt, a queen wears pricey and more traditional gems than these, but these glimmering finds have a luxe romantic charm, don’t you think?

1. Declaration Boutique “Evergreen Diamant Carré” earrings  2. Kate Spade “Year of Color February” ring  3. Kate Spade “Crystal Kaleidoscope” necklace  4. Juicy Couture “Princess” cubic zirconia studs  5. Judith Jack “Relfections” Abalone Round Line bracelet 


And last but not least, dessert! 

Macaroons from New Orleans sweet shop, Sucre.