OC's Omar Never Goes Out On New Year's

December 21, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Happy 10th Birthday, SFDF!

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Call us crazy, but Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa... it seems like those frontrunners get the marquee, and New Year's Eve ends with the short stick. Why is it that December 31 rings in like an afterthought and we just wind up with the canned response: "My New Year's was sh*tty. How was yours?" But your friends at OC want to change that. Here, we present you a special "Twelve Days Of New Year's" series, where each day 'til 2015, styled-out staffers dish on what they're getting up to on NYE—ball drop or not. Stay safe, kids! 

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COUNTDOWN: T-9 Days

Who: Omar Ahmed 
What Do You Do: OCNY sales associate, model dabbler, OCTV cameo star 
Favorite Party Anthem: "Sage Comme Une Image" (Spiller remix) by Bottin feat. Jupiter 
Best NYE Memory: I never go out on New Year's, because it falls on my mom's birthday. I get to spend some quality mother-and-son time with her :) 
How Are You Celebrating This Year: I'll be spending my New Year's in Bangkok!
How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: You're talking to an extreme lightweight, here... 
At Midnight—Text, Call, Kiss Or Drink: Kiss
Best New Year's Day Hangover Remedy: A good ol' cup of green tea and honey in the morning, and I'm set. Those ragers with Mom... you know how those go! 
Number Of Resolutions Kept: 0
2015 New Year's Resolution: Create more opportunities to travel! On Omar: Martine Rose Flare Shirt in orange, Martine Rose Striped Trousers in silver/orange, Opening Ceremony Stretch Canvas Slip-On Platform Sneakers in white. Portrait by Justin Borbely; styling by Lissy Trullie; hair and makeup by Meghan Yearde; produced by Jeanine Celeste Pang; special thanks to Confetti System

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Happy 10th Birthday, SFDF!

December 21, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: BEA Is The Champion Of The Selfie Stick

≪ Previous: OC's Omar Never Goes Out On New Year's

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The Samsung Fashion and Design Fund turns 10 this upcoming year, and it's still going strong as one of the most helpful resources for burgeoning designers, not only in Samsung’s home country of South Korea but all over the globe. SFDF’s financial assistance for up-and-coming designers paved the way for OC faves like Juun.J, KYE, and Steve J & Yoni P to take the leap from South Korea into global markets, gracing us with their innovative designs. Take a peek at the video above, featuring our very own Joyce Lee and columnist Simon Collins.

"It's extremely tough to launch, grow a brand, and even sometimes harder to maintain the business without practical support," Joyce explains. "But SFDF can provide just that on a global scale for young designers... and put their brand name on the map. In fact, the South Korean designers featured at OC—including three-time SFDF-award winner Junn.J—are now recognized globally, especially in New York, Paris, and Tokyo."

We're proud to say the least. Check out the edited video above, and head to the SFDF site to see the full-length version. Now let's celebrate the long-term success of a worthy cause!

A brief history of SFDF, featuring OC's Joyce Lee, Steven Kolb, Simon Collins, and Carla Sozzani. Check out the full-length version here! 

BEA Is The Champion Of The Selfie Stick

December 21, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: No More 'Rock Of Love' Reruns For Ava

≪ Previous: Happy 10th Birthday, SFDF!

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Let’s face it: we’re spoiled. We insatiably crave the real and the raw just as instinctively as we crave a balance of the sweet and savory—not that these combos are mutually exclusive. Case in point: BEA.

The Amsterdam-based singer creates ethereal pop that takes form somewhere between being half asleep, extremely intelligent, and delightfully sweet. She has created a lucid sound and aesthetic that we can comfortably truly get lost in. Actually, you’ll come to know that BEA isn’t like all the other artists out there. She recently debuted her selfie music video for her track “We’re like the Hard Born,” and it’s not what you think but everything you’d want it to be. 

We got curious after listening to her tantalizing single “Safe Ground” for the first time and decided to ask her a few things about herself, yet not too much about her art form because that can obviously speak for itself.

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MIGUEL JIMENEZ: Your video for “We’re like the Hard Born” is quite groundbreaking. Would you say selfies are the future?
BEA: The selfie stick was a great tool for shooting myself whilst capturing the observance of myself, and simultaneously a commercial product that symbolizes social change. Visually, I found this very interesting to apply to a song that is pretty much about detachment. 

What’s your sign?
Cross both you middle fingers over your index fingers and turn your palms away from your torso. Or did you mean star sign? I'm in between Leo and Virgo, on the day it changes. 

Tell us one thing you would like people to know about BEA.
BEA is my real name. I don't hide and I don't like making up stories very much. I am not trying to reach higher ground with an alter ego or anything. How I present myself is exactly as I am, or how I think I am, at least.

Is the glass half full or half empty?
I recon the glass is half empty if you've had the other half already, which you usually have. You often forget you've actually had some. If you haven't had anything yet, the glass is half full. You savor every little bit you have there. I think that’s probably how humans work in general.

What advice would you give to the world?
Do Not Assume Anything!

Name a few of your favorite designers.
I usually think up and make the things I want to wear myself. If I were horribly rich I'd probably buy a lot of commonly worn and replicated designers to passively prove my fortune. :)

Is there a record that drives you wild?
Right now I can't stop listening to "Leaving" by Andy Stott. It's so very beautiful.

The Amsterdam-based singer, BEA. Photo by Piet Langeveld

No More 'Rock Of Love' Reruns For Ava

December 22, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Our Favorite New York... Bathrooms?

≪ Previous: BEA Is The Champion Of The Selfie Stick

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Call us crazy, but Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa... it seems like those frontrunners get the marquee, and New Year's Eve ends with the short stick. Why is it that December 31 rings in like an afterthought and we just wind up with the canned response: "My New Year's was sh*tty—how was yours?" But your friends at OC want to change that. Here, we present you a special "Twelve Days Of New Year's" series, where each day 'til 2015, styled-out staffers dish on what they're getting up to on NYE—ball drop or not. Stay safe, kids!  

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COUNTDOWN: T-08 Days

Who: Ava Nirui
What Do You Do At OC: I work in the Opening Ceremony Worldwide office.
Favorite Party Anthem: Anything by Soulja Boy—pre-2010, of course 
Best NYE Memory: Calling the police on teens swimming in the public pool across the road from my house in Sydney when I was 10 and watching them get arrested in their bathers from my window.
How Are You Celebrating This Year: Probably watching back-to-back episodes of Seinfeld in bed whilst eating pizza. How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: The amount when you're not conscious anymore
At midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink: FaceTime my friends back home 
Best New Year's Day Hangover Remedy: In Australia, it's tradition to go to the beach on New Year's Day and sweat out the alcohol through your pores.
Number of New Year's Resolutions Kept: 0
2015 New Year's Resolution: Stop wasting time watching Rock of Love rerunsOn Ava: Christopher Kane Coral Spiral Off the Shoulder Dress in black, Acne Studios Tillie Ankle Strap Sandals in black. Portrait by Justin Borbely; styling by Lissy Trullie; hair and makeup by Meghan Yarde; produced by Jeanine Celeste Pang; special thanks to Confetti System

Our Favorite New York... Bathrooms?

December 22, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Electro-R&B Gets The Lolawolf Touch

≪ Previous: No More 'Rock Of Love' Reruns For Ava

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Great minds have called the bathroom “the last bastion of American freedom.” In downtown New York, however, it’s difficult to feel that way. We’ve all been there, doing the pee-pee dance in a 10 person-strong line at the bar or washing our hands four times to try to scrub off the grime from the bodega toilet. We as a society deserve better. Because of this, we have compiled a very scientific, very official list of NY's best places to do your business. Everyone else, step it up.


Bathroom We Love To Hate: Welcome To The Johnson's. It’s gritty. It’s grimy. It’s… actually pretty cool. Welcome To The Johnson's colorful graffiti is bad in the best possible way. Photos by Ben TaylorBest for 2 AM: Leave Rochelle Out Of It. To avoid a growing line in front of the bathroom, Rochelle’s has an, ahem, interesting sign in their bathroom. We admire the candor. Best Graffiti: Decibel. This rock-'n'-roll sake bar is covered head-to-toe in sick graffiti, and its bathroom is no exception. Most Educational: DBGB Kitchen and Bar. This East Village eatery’s bathroom is wallpapered in diagrams of kitchenware. Maybe enough time looking at it can help you make food as good as theirs. Best Flowers: Peasant. The orchids gracing Peasant's bathrooms are a far cry from the dusty plastic counterparts you're more likely to encounter. Best Handsoap: Ace Hotel. Full disclosure: we’re a bit biased in this category. You might just possibly be able to pick up this soap at our OC at Ace location. We wouldn’t sell it if it wasn’t great, though. 

Electro-R&B Gets The Lolawolf Touch

December 22, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: OC's Josh Is Gonna Watch That Ball Drop Because Why The Hell Not

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A couple hours before their Rough Trade show, the three members of Lolawolf were perched in a hallway-sized green room. The band consists of Zoe Kravitz (daughter of Lenny Kravitz and Lisa Bonet), Jimmy Giannopoulos, and James Levy (both of the dolefully upbeat band Reputante). Their electro-R&B band is a little over a year old with one full album released a month ago called Calm Down and a big tour with Miley Cyrus and Lily Allen just under their belt.

They express comfort that they’re back in front of a smaller crowd that they can “get energy from,” as Zoe puts it. And they prefer to play close together, looking one another in the eye. Jimmy confirms this, as he offers me a plate of snacks. I twist the pita to dive back into the hummus, announcing that I wouldn’t double dip. “Oh you can double dip,” says Jimmy with strong assurance. “Of course you can,” Zoe says, “You’re with the right people.”

Good group vibes like these pervade Lolawolf. They’re relaxed, accommodating, sharing with each other. Jimmy recalls the last time they went on stage, Zoe checked an outfit with him, as he was taking his flannel off. Simultaneously they realized that was the missing element for her. “We dress each other,” Zoe says smiling kindly.

Half-considered outfit changes speak to the spontaneity that dominates Lolawolf. Zoe says they write songs quickly; they’ll take a concept, an idea, a character, or story and it’s done in 24 hours. This can come across as slightly lackadaisical. In many interviews, the band resists questions that blandly pry into intention. They want to be creating, and they’re interested in creating, not in the explaining of it.

They make music because they want to and they wanted something from it (danceability). “The way my brain goes, if the beat is good enough that’s the first thing I pay attention to," Zoe says. "Lyrics are last.” 

“Lyrics are last, but they’re the most important,” Jimmy adds.

“Lyrics are last, but if the beat is really fucking good, they can say the dumbest shit and I don’t care,” Zoe continues. “If it makes me want to dance, I justify whatever they’re saying in my head. There is rarely going to be a time when you go: The lyrics are good, but the song’s not.”

Lolawolf’s lyrics—floated by good hooks—are lovely, sensitive things. They are usually consciously removed, often about a denial of feelings, but not denying that denial. Like “I want to know what love it; I hope it’s not you” or “I don’t fuck around with the truth anymore.” I talk to Zoe about this Catch 22 of admitting you’re lying. “A lot of these songs are like diaries for me; I was trying to be as honest as I possibly could be. I’m really trying to bullshit a lot less, now that I’m older.”

The bluntness of the lyrics doesn’t quite hit at first; the sound cushions it with danceability. The beats are tense; the melody is smooth. This can also be explained, metaphorically, by the recording locations in both the Bahamas and Las Vegas. It’s tropical and relaxed meets dark and weird. Lolawolf’s songs are usually described with a buffet of references to sounds of the '90s, frequently cited by the band (Salt ’n Pepper, No Doubt, TLC, Fiona Apple, Aaliyah). These references are often checked with a note to a techy sound. It’

OC's Josh Is Gonna Watch That Ball Drop Because Why The Hell Not

December 23, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: OC's Jesse Hudnutt Sticks To Champagne

≪ Previous: Electro-R&B Gets The Lolawolf Touch

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Call us crazy but Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa... it seems like those holidays get all the hype, and New Year's Eve becomes an afterthought. Why is it that December 31 always takes a backseat to its precursors, and then we just wind up with the canned response: "My New Year's was sh*tty—how was yours?" Here at OC, we're pretty good at attending a social event or two. So, we present you a special "Twelve Days Of New Year's" series—where one staffer a day dishes on what they're getting up to—ball drop or not—and what they might be wearing, too.

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COUNTDOWN: T-7 Days

Who: Josh Paulin
What Do You Do At OC: Odds and ends
Favorite Party Anthem: My own voice
Best NYE Memory: Running around party to party while fighting and laughing with my best friend on Earth (shoutout to my girl on Mars) last year. By far the best NYE kiss; I turned on Daft Punk's "One More Time" at 12 AM and just started making out. Everyone hated me, and some girl changed the music 40 seconds in.
How Are You Celebrating This Year: Not sure yet—I usually watch the ball drop, which sounds like a weird way to start any night.
How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: This is the one time of the year to set a new goal. Don't mix. Don't drive. Don't fly. Don't take the train. Walk home and hold hands. But drink, a lot.
At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink: Usually all the networks are fucked because everyone be callin' and everyone be text'n. Don't kiss anyone you don't wanna ever hang out with ever again—they will get the wrong idea and keep texting you four years later. I'm going to go with drink on this one—maybe four-eight shots in a row.
Best New Year's Day Hangover Remedy: Don't wake up in jail—or that could also be the best way to stay sober for the New Year. I feel like being on the couch is best with homemade food and Netflix. Some Tom Cruise movies about to be lit up on Netflix.
Number Of New Year's Resolutions Kept: In 2012, I made one and I kept it, and hopefully I think it's still going, to soon too tell, it's like shaking the magic 8 ball IRL.
2015 New Year's Resolution: Resolution in 1080p a.k.a. I need to get my eyes checked and might need glasses in the new year :-)On Josh: XXBC OC-Exclusive Crewneck Sweatshirt in pink/tan. Photos by Justin Borbely; styling by Lissy Trullie; hair and makeup by Meghan Yearde; special thanks to Confetti System

OC's Jesse Hudnutt Sticks To Champagne

December 24, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: OC's Janelle 'Ain't Nuthing Ta Fuck With'

≪ Previous: OC's Josh Is Gonna Watch That Ball Drop Because Why The Hell Not

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Call us crazy but Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa... it seems like those holidays get all the hype, and New Year's Eve becomes an afterthought. Why is it that December 31 always takes a backseat to its precursors, and then we just wind up with the canned response: "My New Year's was sh*tty—how was yours?" Here at OC, we're pretty good at attending a social event or two. So, we present you a special "Twelve Days Of New Year's" series—where one staffer a day dishes on what they're getting up to—ball drop or not—and what they might be wearing, too.

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COUNTDOWN: T-06 Days

Who: Jesse Hudnutt
What Do You Do At OC: Men's buyer and special projects
Favorite Party Anthem: "Everybody Dance" by Chic
Best NYE Memory: Beachside Young Turks music festival in Tulum last year
How Are You Celebrating This Year: House party in LA
How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: As long as I stick with Champagne only, I'm fine.
At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink: Kiss!!!
Best New Year's Day Hangover Remedy: Eggs, lots of San Pellegrino, and a swim in the ocean if possible.
Number of New Year's Resolutions Kept: Most
2015 New Year's Resolution: More yogaOn Jesse: SASQUATCHfabrix Layered Cutsewn Turtleneck in red, Opening Ceremony Stretch Canvas Slip-On Platform Sneakers in white. Photos by Justin Borbely; styling by Lissy Trullie; hair and makeup by Meghan Yarde; special thanks to Confetti System

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OC's Janelle 'Ain't Nuthing Ta Fuck With'

December 25, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Taco Bell As A Hangover Remedy? Chloe D Thinks So!

≪ Previous: OC's Jesse Hudnutt Sticks To Champagne

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Call us crazy but Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa... it seems like those holidays get all the hype, and New Year's Eve becomes an afterthought. Why is it that December 31 always takes a backseat to its precursors, and then we just wind up with the canned response: "My New Year's was sh*tty—how was yours?" Here at OC, we're pretty good at attending a social event or two. So, we present you a special "Twelve Days Of New Year's" series—where one staffer a day dishes on what they're getting up to—ball drop or not—and what they might be wearing, too.

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COUNTDOWN: T-5 Days

Who: Janelle Anne
What Do You Do At OC: Copywriter
Favorite Party Anthem: "Wu-Tang Clan Ain't Nuthing ta Fuck Wit" by Wu-Tang Clan
Best NYE Memory: When we thought the world would end on Y2K 
How Are You Celebrating This Year: No plans yet, but I've got a dress.
How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: However much goes over the 2.5 beer buzz
At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink: Kiss, drink, call, drink, text, drink—in that order.
Best New Year's Day Hangover Remedy: B movie marathons.
Number Of New Year's Resolutions Kept: No comment ;)
2015 New Year's Resolution: More beach days.On Janelle: Kiko Mizuhara for Opening Ceremony Sequined Long-Sleeve Cropped Top in blue, Kiko Mizuhara for Opening Ceremony Glitter Pleated Skirt in sax. Photos by Justin Borbely; styling by Lissy Trullie; hair and makeup by Meghan Yarde; special thanks to Confetti System

Taco Bell As A Hangover Remedy? Chloe D Thinks So!

December 27, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Cosmic Numbers: December 24

≪ Previous: OC's Janelle 'Ain't Nuthing Ta Fuck With'

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Call us crazy, but Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa... it seems like those frontrunners get the marquee, and New Year's Eve ends with the short stick. Why is it that December 31 rings in like an afterthought and we just wind up with the canned response: "My New Year's was sh*tty—how was yours?" But your friends at OC want to change that. Here, we present you a special "Twelve Days Of New Year's" series, where each day 'til 2015, styled-out staffers dish on what they're getting up to on NYE—ball drop or not. Stay safe, kids!  

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COUNTDOWN: T-3 Days

Who: Chloe Dewberry
What Do You Do At OC: Writer for OC Blog/OCNY Men’s Store OG
Favorite Party Anthem: "Emotions” by Mariah Carey
Best NYE Memory: I never remember :(
How Are You Celebrating This Year: Planning on not getting stuck underground in the subway when the clock strikes 12 like I do every year 
How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: Too many drinks is a thing? 
At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink: Kiss and drink all you want—put that phone away though. 
Best New Year's Day Hangover Remedy: Taco Bell breakfast as an appetizer while you wait for your table next door at IHOP
Number Of New Year's Resolutions Kept: 0
2015 New Year's Resolution: Watch. More. Netflix. It's the only one I will ever be able to keep ;)On Chloe: Kenzo in Broken Floor Sleeveless Jumpsuit in fire. Portrait by Justin Borbely; styling by Lissy Trullie; hair and makeup by Meghan Yarde; produced by Jeanine Celeste Pang; special thanks to Confetti System

Cosmic Numbers: December 24

December 23, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Look Out Ladies Of Tinder, OC's Michael Is On The Prowl

≪ Previous: Taco Bell As A Hangover Remedy? Chloe D Thinks So!

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As anyone waiting for that boy/girl to text knows, updates can be just as important as dates. In Cosmic Numbers, Morgan Rehbock, the guru behind our monthly Astrology IRL column, divines the stars to bring you in-the-moment advice on important dates.

Saturn enters Sagittarius

Aries
(March 21 - April 20)

You can feel a sense of heaviness being lifted as Saturn shifts signs and enters the exuberant sign of Sagittarius, making a positive aspect in the direction of your Aries sun. Move your focus toward the mental realm, and maybe even consider going back to school or taking classes in the future. You have three years to explore this new planetary placement, so allow the vibes to sink in before you make big decisions.

Taurus
(April 21 - May 20)
For the past three years, your relationships have been fraught, but in the process of breaking up and making up you have gained wisdom about yourself and how you relate to others. You’re no longer quite as stubborn as you once were. Saturn is setting you free today, and your task now is to make a commitment to keeping the kind of relationships that make you happy.

Gemini
(May 21 - June 20)
For three years your routine was disrupted by Saturn’s focus on your 6th house of work. Your schedule was totally booked and you were not able to devote the proper attention to love and relationships. Now that your personal life settles in to a steadier routine, think about what you want and need from a partner. Romance might not come as easily as you want it to, but you have the chance to make seriously lasting connections while Saturn is in Sagittarius.

Cancer
(June 21 - July 22)
For three years, Saturn has been blocking your creative energy. Finally the Van Gogh phase is over, and if you have all your sensory organs intact, I’m sure you’ve also made a lot of progress on unblocking and opening up your creative chakras. Now your task is to find a routine that suits your lifestyle. Focus on diet, health, and work habits while Saturn is in your Virgo house.

Leo
(July 23 - August 22)
Are you living the lifestyle you really want? Saturn is entering your house of passion today, asking you to work harder so that you can enjoy the pleasures in life that you deserve. You might feel somehow restricted at first, but what Saturn wants is for you to actualize your dreams. Accept the challenges and you will succeed.

Virgo
(August 23 - September 22)
Are you happy with your current living situation? What do you need to make that happen? While Saturn begins its journey through Sagittarius, these are the pertinent questions. Manifest your dream home.

Libra
(September 23 - October 22)
Saturn in Sagittarius can be a gag order of sorts if you let it become one. Your task while Saturn begins its new journey is to clear your mind and meditate on your thoughts so that none of the information coming in catches you flummoxed. You need a quick rebuttal to every quip coming your way.

Scorpio
(October 23 - November 22)

I'm sure you've felt the shifting energy over the past few weeks. Saturn is leaving your sign, and you won't have to deal with its drama for another 28 years! Invite new energy in to your life. The next chapter begins now. 

Sagittarius
(November 23 - December 21)
So, I know you

Look Out Ladies Of Tinder, OC's Michael Is On The Prowl

December 26, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: OC's Sean Has Plans With Skrillex This NYE

≪ Previous: Cosmic Numbers: December 24

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Call us crazy, but Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa... it seems like those frontrunners get the marquee, and New Year's Eve ends with the short stick. Why is it that December 31 rings in like an afterthought and we just wind up with the canned response: "My New Year's was sh*tty—how was yours?" But your friends at OC want to change that. Here, we present you a special "Twelve Days Of New Year's" series, where each day 'til 2015, styled-out staffers dish on what they're getting up to on NYE—ball drop or not. Stay safe, kids!  

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COUNTDOWN: T-4 Days

Who: Michael Elijah Rodriguez
What Do You Do At OC: You can find me in backstock with the boys or catch me shooting for the Gram. I'm always lurking.
Favorite Party Anthem: "Suavamente" by Elvis Crespo
Best NYE Memory: I wish I could remember.
How Are You Celebrating This Year: Trying to find all of the sad girls on Tinder.
How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: Who's ever counting?
At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink: Combination of all of the above
Best New Year's Day Hangover Remedy: Acai bowl with peanut butter
Number of New Year's Resolutions Kept: I don't abide by the whole "New Year, New Me " kind of deal.
2015 New Year's Resolution: Get heshOn Elijah: Stephan Schneider Glacier Overalls in black, Kenzo Woven Contrast Collar Long-Sleeve Shirt in white, Luar Zepol Bunjee Boots in black/grey. Portrait by Justin Borbely; styling by Lissy Trullie; hair and makeup by Meghan Yarde; produced by Jeanine Celeste Pang; special thanks to Confetti System

OC's Sean Has Plans With Skrillex This NYE

December 28, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: OC's Riley's Best NYE Memory? She'll Never Tell

≪ Previous: Look Out Ladies Of Tinder, OC's Michael Is On The Prowl

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Call us crazy but Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa... it seems like those holidays get all the hype, and New Year's Eve becomes an afterthought. Why is it that December 31 always takes a backseat to its precursors, and then we just wind up with the canned response: "My New Year's was sh*tty—how was yours?" Here at OC, we're pretty good at attending a social event or two. So, we present you a special "Twelve Days Of New Year's" series—where one staffer a day dishes on what they're getting up to—ball drop or not—and what they might be wearing, too.

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COUNTDOWN: T-2 Days

Who: Sean Risley
What Do You Do At OC: Manager at OC at Ace 
Favorite Party Anthem: "Ayo" by Lolawolf 
Best NYE Memory: Being stuck between the third and fourth floor elevator with Bill Murray at the Chateau Marmont
How Are You Celebrating This Year: I'm in a bind: both Skrillex and Pharrell want to hang out, but I will probably end up hanging out with Terrill instead.
How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: I prefer to be sober on NYE.
At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink: None of those. My ideal NYE midnight moment would be base jumping off a building. 
Best New Year's Day Hangover Remedy: Thankfully on NYE I don't get hangovers, but my mental hangover remedy is seeing all the women —and men— doing the walk of shame in sequined dresses the following morning.
Number Of New Year's Resolutions Kept: Every single one
2015 New Year's Resolution: STOP USING TINDER and go on a date with Zoë KravitzOn Sean: Kenzo Squares Neon Plaid Sweatshirt in black, Kenzo Squares Denim Plaid Jeans in black, Opening Ceremony Stretch Canvas Slip-On Platform Sneakers in white. Photos by Justin Borbely; styling by Lissy Trullie; hair and makeup by Meghan Yarde; special thanks to Confetti System

OC's Riley's Best NYE Memory? She'll Never Tell

December 29, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Alice Tate In Warsaw

≪ Previous: OC's Sean Has Plans With Skrillex This NYE

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Call us crazy but Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa... it seems like those holidays get all the hype, and New Year's Eve becomes an afterthought. Why is it that December 31 always takes a backseat to its precursors, and then we just wind up with the canned response: "My New Year's was sh*tty—how was yours?" Here at OC, we're pretty good at attending a social event or two. So, we present you a special "Twelve Days Of New Year's" series—where one staffer a day dishes on what they're getting up to—ball drop or not—and what they might be wearing, too.

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COUNTDOWN: T-1 Day

Who: Riley Gallagher
What Do You Do At OC: Ace Magician 
Favorite Party Anthem: "All My Friends" by LCD Soundsystem
Best NYE Memory: I'll never tell
How Are You Celebrating This Year: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: Never too many
At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink: Kiss. Everyone.
Best New Year's Day Hangover Remedy: Breakfast with everyone from the night before; enjoy the struggle together.
Number Of New Year's Resolutions Kept: None :(
2015 New Year's Resolution: Get a black eyeOn Riley: Litkovskaya Ribbon Cut Out Dress in wine, Kenzo Dale Truck Shoes in black. Photos by Justin Borbely; styling by Lissy Trullie; hair and makeup by Meghan Yarde; special thanks to Confetti System

Alice Tate In Warsaw

January 1, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Christmas Versus New Year's: We Duke It Out With A 9-Year-Old

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In Straight Trippin', OC friends and family share tidbits from their latest travels. This time, OC London contributor Alice Tate shares snaps of festive decorations, dumplings, and a lotta cheap mulled wine in Warsaw, Poland.

Name: Alice Tate
Occupation: London OC contributor
Travel destination: Warsaw, Poland
Carry-on necessities: M&D headphones, extra Tabio socks, and a salmon and cream cheese bagel—6 AM flights call for breakfast snacks.
Reading materials: The tricky crossword in The Times occupied half the 2.5-hour flight. 
Most over-played track on your iPhone this trip: "Made To Stray" by Mount Kimbie
Favorite outfit to travel in: Layers! Poland is freaking cold. Wouldn’t have survived without my T by Alexander Wang vest + tee + longsleeve combo.
Highlight of your trip: Falling into a merry slumber on my boyfriend’s lap in the pub after one too many drowsy-inducing mulled wines. Polish mulled wine is potent!
Best Part: Getting enjoyably lost and confused in the pretty backstreets of Old City, staying warm and boozy with ++++ cups of cheap mulled wine, and finding our way back by following the shiny star at the top of the big Christmas tree.
Souvenirs you brought back: Cheap Zubrowka vodka!Photos by Alice Tate

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Christmas Versus New Year's: We Duke It Out With A 9-Year-Old

December 23, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: 'Let’s Wish Each Other A Very Merry Christmas'

≪ Previous: Alice Tate In Warsaw

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If you're ever feeling cold to the bone and wet sludge has begun to seep into your boots and you're whispering obscenities under your breath as you try to calm your flimsy umbrella as it flaps in the wind like a gasping bird, head to Snowdays—with a kid.

Pegged as "NYC's premier snow cream spot," Snowdays' website description sounds more elusive than it needs to be—just know that it's the new Pinkberry, that it tastes like fluffy ice cream, and that their magic spoons are color-changing, and also, quite possibly life-changing.  

Of course, it helps when you're in the company of your favorite nine-year-old—Dashiell from the block. "Are these mini pancakes?" he asked us on a very cold December afternoon, ogling the container of Nilla Wafers by the register. He's got his favorite carb in mind, and who can blame him? 'Tis the season for gluttony. As he shoveled The Blue Yeti ("oreos and cream and blueberry mash") into his mouth, he talked to us about his holiday plans.

Read alla 'bout it, including how to land on Santa's"nice" list, below. 

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1. Prioritize For Santa
"If you have a lot on your list, it’s smart to prioritize for Santa. I always put the thing I want most at the top of my list, so it’s very clear this is The Big Thing I really want. It’s also good to talk about the toy you really want when you’re playing, so Santa can hear your hints, like, “I can’t wait ‘til my G.I. Joe gets to play with that Velociraptor I asked for Christmas.”"
 
2. To Get On The ”Nice” List, You Actually Have To Be Nice
"You have to actually be nice. Like at school, we were making penguins at our class party and Michael G. was being nice, because when someone asked for the tape he gave them a piece. You can’t fake it."
 
3. Eat Pancakes
"The most important thing to do on X-Mas Day is eat pancakes and play with new Nerf guns."

4. Thank-You Notes Are Like Homework, But For Happy Things 
"Thank-you notes are like homework, but for happy things. They are nice, but I think it’s better to play with the gift, use it, or wear it a lot. When they see you wearing the vest at the bus stop, or playing with the dinosaur or going crazy on the snowboard, they will know you are thankful for it." 

5. Thoughts On Pantone's New Color Of The Year, Marsala?
"That’s the new color? I thought it would be green or pink because everyone is wearing pink. I’m even wearing pink right now. I think that color is ugly… it’s like pink, filled with sorrow. Bananas!

6. Christmas Trumps New Year’s
"Christmas is way more important, because you spend the whole month waiting for presents and it’s all about thinking ahead. Plus, there’s no school and you get to spend time with your family."

7. And BTW, New Year’s Is Kind Of A Downer
"New Year’s is just about the earth getting older and as soon as it comes, you have to go back to school."

8. Eat Cake To Stay Up To That Ball Drop
"If I want to stay awake past midnight, I eat cake and drink Dr Pepper, and if I’m still falling asleep, I’ll slap myself on the face to wake up." 

9. Summer Clothes In January

'Let’s Wish Each Other A Very Merry Christmas'

December 24, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Mazurbate's Top 10 Turn-Up Tunes Of 2014

≪ Previous: Christmas Versus New Year's: We Duke It Out With A 9-Year-Old

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Here at OC, we are struck by how often we end up in everyday conundrums. The ones that land you in the thick of semi (or full-blown) awkwardness, or maybe, the doghouse. 

So, we turned to Simon Collins, the dean of the School of Fashion at Parsons, who after six years in his plum perch, is stepping down at the end of this year to launch "Simon 2.0," as he calls it. Translation: More time to divulge lessons on how to the spend the holidays... 

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Q: ​So, you didn't get the year-end bonus you wanted (or any bonus—god damn). ​Sit on your hands or strangle your boss? ​

Tough year, right? You worked so hard on that project during the summer that you barely made it to the Hamptons share house. And when your colleague left for that plum job with the fat salary, you had to pick up the slack, because times are hard and there wasn’t the budget to replace them. It’s just not fair!

Well you’ll teach them by thieving all you can from the stationery closet. And maybe treat yourself to a fabulous lunch at Balthazar on expenses; the Champagne there is enough to make a dent in what your bonus should’ve been.

Of course the fact that you have the option of going to Balthazar does set you rather apart from many Americans. Many New Yorkers even. Just walk a few blocks south to the Bowery. Those buildings that aren’t posh stores still provide food and beds to people with nothing at all. For them a Christmas bonus is a warm meal and a hot shower, maybe a bed for the night. Or if you’re in Midtown, why not pop over to the main post office and read a letter or two from Operation Santa Clause. They’re from kids with nothing at all under their trees.

So in lieu of the bonus you didn’t get, you could give your own personal time as a Christmas bonus to one of the many food pantries or holiday charities that look after fellow New Yorkers who desperately need your help.

I guarantee you will feel more rewarded than any amount of year-end bonus could ever make you feel. And that OC coat will eventually go on sale. ​

Q: ​How do you say "Merry Christmas" and mean it?

The question is, do you actually mean it? Do you really want the person to have a merry Christmas (or Hanukkah, Eid, Diwali, Passover etc)?

If the answer is yes then think hard about what you’re saying. Look the person in the eye, smile, and clearly enunciate the words "Merry Christmas." Sounds easy, doesn't it? If they have a heart, they will smile and accept the good wishes. If they’re of an uptight religious persuasion then they should accept your words in the holiday spirit and perhaps offer back their own version. Either way it’s all good, and happiness is exchanged. 

However, to return to the question in hand. If you are wishing merry Christmas to someone about whom you are at best ambivalent then you might consider my previous advice on grin fucking, but before you rush off to practice fake smiles and sneers, may I make a suggestion? (Editor’s note: Yes, that’s your job).

Can we just assume that everyone actually wants everyone else to have a merry Christmas? Even Republicans have moms, remember? So let’s wish each other a very merry Christmas and genuinely mean it. Who knows, it might even catch o

Mazurbate's Top 10 Turn-Up Tunes Of 2014

December 28, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink?

≪ Previous: 'Let’s Wish Each Other A Very Merry Christmas'

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This past year, music fans discovered that Tuesday is the new night to limply shake their hips and shoulders while attempting to perfect the "shmoney dance." It was a strangely glorious year for music, with acts like Tinashe dominating the radio waves and Solange getting down to Rae Sremmurd's breakout hit "No Flex Zone" with her son at the wedding of the year.

OC's resident DJ Mazurbate, aka Matthew Mazur, is not immune to the catchy sounds of this year's bigggest musical breakouts and knows just what the crowds want to hear—his favorite unsuspecting tracks. "This new [2014] sound of rappers is weird, scary, spooky, and almost comical," says the music guru. "I mean, how many memes have we seen of baking soda? A new type of humor and characteristics in vocals have been introduced and tremendously successful."

When he's not on the tables fulfilling partygoers' tipsy wishes to play "Partition" one more time, the man puts together a mean end-of-the-year playlist. For the season of giving, Mazurbate has provided his top picks for the tunes he couldn't turn off in 2014. 

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1. O.T. Genasis—"CoCo"
 
I love that it feels like there are no more than 15 words to this song. 


2. Rich Gang feat. Young Thug and Rich Homie Quan—"Lifestyle"
 
This is like a contemporary wedding song in a way... or maybe just mine. I love that it makes me feel like it's the romantic slow dance of 2014.


3. Sage the Gemini—"Red Nose (Dubbel Dutch 'Go-Go Bunx' Retool)"

In my opinion, Dubbel Dutch's remix of this is better than the original. Its feel is good and sexy—and you can dance hard to it.


4. Que—"OG Bobby Johnson"

My FAVORITE spooky evil level video game song by far.


5. Lana Del Rey—"Ultraviolence"

Forever on repeat in my head and my computer; the lyrics and the instrumental are beyond. I want to meet her personally and let Lana know that this is, for me, one of the top 10 perfect songs ever made.


6. Rae Sremmurd—"No Type"

"Bad Bitches is the only thing that I like!" Enough said. 


7. Bobby Shmurda—"Hot N***a"

I love tha

At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink?

December 30, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Quince And The Pauper At Birds & Bubbles

≪ Previous: Mazurbate's Top 10 Turn-Up Tunes Of 2014

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Call us crazy, but Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanzaa.... it seems like those frontrunners get the marquee, and New Year's Eve ends with the short stick. Why is it that December 31 rings in like an afterthought and we just wind up with the canned response: "My New Year's was sh*tty, how was yours?" But your friends at OC want to change that. Here, we present you a special "Twelve Days Of New Year's" series, where each day 'til 2015, styled-out staffers dish on what they're getting up to on NYE—ball drop or not. Stay safe, kids!  

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HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Who: Lisa Jones
What Do You Do At OC: Women's buyer 
Favorite Party Anthem: Anything by Prince 
Best NYE Memory:  Last New Year's, in Trinidad with family and friends on the beach 
How Are You Celebrating This Year: Low key with friends 
How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: Never too many! 
At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink: Kisses 
Best New Year's Day Hangover Remedy: A run! I'm going to feel fresh for the new year.
Number Of New Year's Resolutions Kept: Zero 
2015 New Year's Resolution: To cook more 

 

Who: Clara Cornet 
What Do You Do At OC: Women's buyer
Favorite Party Anthem: "Images" by Les Demons de Minuit 
How Are You Celebrating This Year: In Mexico with Philip Nguyen 
How Many Drinks Is Too Many On NYE: When you lose count...
At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink: Still deciding! 
Number Of New Year's Resolutions Kept: Zero 
2015 New Year's Resolution: I'm going to start keeping last year's resolutions. On Lisa (left): Isa Arfen Wrap 'Around Around' Jacket in haribo, Isa Arfen Slim Cullotes in haribo. On Clara (right): 

Quince And The Pauper At Birds & Bubbles

January 1, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: The Top 14 Stories Of 2014

≪ Previous: At Midnight: Text, Call, Kiss, Or Drink?

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This summer, OC got you Tipsy and Tan. Now, we're just getting you tipsy. Meet Fridays at Five, our cocktail series where mixologists at New York City’s white-hot new restaurants create OC-exclusive drinks for our readers. Drinking on the job? Don't mind if we do...

This week, champagne is pretty much obligatory. So leave it to Birds & Bubbles to come up with the perfect cocktail to ring in the new year. With a 26-bottle champers list and a killer menu of Southern comfort food (fried chicken, pimento cheese, shrimp and grits), owner Sarah Simmons has created the perfect place to celebrate... casually. To start 2015 off with a bang, beverage director Ariel Arce fixed up something easy and impressive for our readers. Toss juniper and rosemary in gin, make a little quince syrup, and grab a bottle of champagne. Do it right, i.e. with plenty of fried chicken, and hangovers will be a thing of the past. 

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Name: Ariel Arce

If this drink had a soundtrack, what would it be? “Tell It Like It Is” by Aaron Neville 

Drink of choice: Gin and tonic. For tonic I like Fever-Tree, for gin I go classic with Plymouth. Definitely a pinch of lime.

Hangover cure: I only drink when I know I can stay in bed all day. Then I get a slice of pizza or a cheeseburger. I’m a big fan of delivery.

Best date advice: Go somewhere and eat something that isn’t flattering, so you know they’ll be comfortable with the person you really are.

Recommendation: Fried chicken. Or pizza.

Worst pick-up: There was a place I once worked where people would come in and spend a lot of money on champagne. Once there was a gentleman who was really trying to throw his weight around, and he went up to two young women and asked how much they might be for the evening. Of course, the girls were incredibly offended. We did our best to diffuse it, and as his apology he sent over a bottle of Dom Pérignon Rose ’03.

What not to do to your bartender: Don’t forget—you’re not the only person at the bar. Be patient and your patience will be rewarded.

Best New Year’s Eve ever: I grew up on Sister Act II. One year, we were at a party and having a great time, and the countdown happens. By happenstance, at 12 on the dot, “Oh Happy Day” from Sister Act II started playing. Every person in the room started dancing and singing at the top of their lungs. It was a great, joyous moment, like, let’s have a great new year. I remember dancing so hard.

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Exclusive Recipe: Quince and the Pauper OC
Alcohol Scale*: 5
“It’s watch-out boozy. There’s some bubbles, some gin, and some fun.”

1 oz gin infused with rosemary and juniper
1 oz quince syrup
H. Blin Champagne

To infuse the gin, grab a bottle of gin and add juniper berries and rosemary. Grab a bottle of quince jelly, not membrillo, and thin it out with some water to create a syrup. Strain. Then garnish a wine glass with a sprig of rosemary and fill with crushed ice. Pour gin and quince syrup over ice; top with champagne.


*OC's Alcohol Scale ranges from 1 ("like sippin' from a juice box") to 10 ("tak