New York based designer Brian Wood is making a special trip to L.A. to debut a collection (not to mention celebrate the occasion) and we’ve got all the details.

The “L.A. Alumni” collection is a line of clothing candidly graced with the faces of significant people to have reigned from our wonderful city. His first Alumni collection was Brooklyn based and included clothing designs hosting the faces of people like Lil’ Kim, Larry David, Michael Jordan, and Notorious B.I.G. If there’s even a 1% power osmosis going on by adorning yourself with the mugs of such big timers, we’re in.

This time around Brian is calling on Los Angeles and utilizing West Coast connections to make the decisions. Dan Regan, owner of the Black Banditz tattoo shop on Melrose was integral in choosing who would make the “L.A. Alumni” cut, some more mainstream people as well as some underground choices. You know you’ve been waiting for a non-creepy way to keep Leonardo DiCaprio’s photo on your body since 1997. Don’t deny it.

The line will be available in casual wear: T-shirts, V-necks, crew-neck sweatshirts, tank tops, and zip front hoodies. The color scheme will be reflective of L.A. sports teams’ colors; recognizable with unexpected layout adjustments and high quality pieces. Not to mention those faces.

In addition to the normal line there are nine “Vintage Mash-ups” pieces. These are designs made from 80’s and 90’s vintage sports shirts reworked with pop culture graphics, hand painting, bleaching, and detailing pinned by hand.

The line will be shown and exclusively sold at the clothing boutique Colors, and since a party is in order it has deemed logical to hold the event at the store location. That’s happening this upcoming Saturday.

We’re hosting alongside Black Banditz who will be providing a pop-up tattoo spot at the party which is the perfect time for regulars to swing on in or for tattoo virgins to be granted the support of friends and the buoyancy afforded by an open bar. Open bar! Los Angeles artist Thurz will be hosting the event and guest DJ Justin Credible will be on site keeping the energy high.

Sound good L.A.? Brian Wood, Black Banditz, and Minx Society invite you to join us Saturday May 19^th from 6-10 at Colors, 606 West Pico Blvd. Can’t wait!

Photo By: Nasty Gal

Festivals come and go, but one thing that we are certain is going to stay is this wonderful, warm weather. This festival season we saw headpieces galore at Coachella which only made us extra eager and hopeful for some warm Indio sun.

Headpieces were the seasoned staple that could take any outfit from minimalistic to cutting edge.With summer nearing, shorts and dresses are expected, but when the layers are less it’s easy to make up for lost fabric with some fab headpieces. We’ve gathered up some of our favorites out there for you to snag up and finish off some of your favorite looks.

Whether your inner hippie is calling for a floral piece or you prefer to stand out with a rocker chain piece or beaded headband, the perfect piece could elevate your summer wardrobe to the next level. Which headpiece will you be counting on this summer?

Images via Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour, Litter SF, Urban Outfitters, Shopbop, Nasty Gal, Planet Blue and Free People.

The Temper Trap’s highly-anticipated new studio album will be released on May 21^st. A self-titled affair, it will be the band’s follow-up to their phenomenally successful 2009 debut, Conditions.

Expectations are high for this album, considering how well their single Sweet Disposition did a few years back. It was featured heavily in the comedy/drama film 500 Days of Summer, experienced heavy rotation on modern rock radio, and garnered them a stellar Outdoor Stage set at Coachella that same year.

The first single from the new album is called Need Your Love, an epic song with an even more epic Karate Kid-themed music video:

They also released the song Rabbit Hole a few months back, as the first sample of the new album:

This week, a third song from the new record was made available over at NME. Right now, you can’t stream Trembling Hands within the United States, but that should presumably change soon.

Here at Minx Society we’re excited about this new album, as Conditions was particularly impressive – the Temper Trap have a really eclectic sound, led by bouncy, gritty rhythms and some pretty excellent harmonies, and judging by the first single, The Temper Trap may turn out to be one of the stronger albums released this year.

As the band’s website details: “The new album was recorded at the famed Sound Factory in Los Angeles, with producer Tony Hoffer, who’s worked with the likes of Beck, M83 & Phoenix. It’s our first album as a five-piece, after we recently welcomed Joseph Greer (keyboard/guitar) to the fold as a permanent member.”

They’ll be promoting the record with a concert at the Hollywood Palladium on Friday, June 15^th – get your tickets now.

Photo by: Bohemian Chic

“In with the old and out with the new.” A smart twist on an old concept, Novella Royale is hip to this idea and designs all of their clothing and luxury handbags from old pieces, staying true to their philosophy of creating fashion without creating waste from new materials. All of their vintage pieces are created from one-of-a-kind fabric, so each piece is unique in its own way (you won’t have to worry about seeing five other people at the same party sporting an outfit that is identical to yours).

Especially popular among the Coachella circuit of celebs, Novella Royale’s best-selling items from their current collection include the flash-from-the-past Bell Bottom Pant ($132), the Lola Halter Dress as seen on Vanessa Hudgens ($115), the country-inspired Greasy Heart Shorts ($135), and the comfy Julia Blouse ($145), perfect for an afternoon of stylish slumming around the boardwalk. For a finishing touch of flair, the “Mister” handbag ($584) is the ultimate in studded luxury, as well as a personal favorite of Jennifer Love Hewitt, Kristin Cavallari, & Taylor Momsen.

For more items from Novella Royale’s Vintage Collection and Recycled Collection, check out their official site. Novella Royale is also available at Planet Blue. To keep up with other Novella Royale news, follow them on Twitter and read their official blog.

Photo By: Cheyenne Meets Chanel

Long days in the sun this summer are bound to work up your appetite, but one of the perks of being in Los Angeles is that one doesn’t have to stray too far from the beach in order to satisfy their hunger. In fact, there are dozens of amazing eateries along the sunny coastline designed to suit any mood, whether it be an intimate dinner for two or a Sunday brunch with the family.  Here are Los Angeles’ Best Beachside Restaurants for the perfect seaside dining experience:

1. The Strand House

Nestled in the cozy beach town of Manhattan Beach with views that look straight out onto the Pacific Ocean, The Strand House is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy an array of  “modern heirlooms” created by Owner Michael Zizlis and Master Chef Neal Fraser. From bacon wrapped duck terrine with tart cherries, pistachios and black truffle to the Dungeness crab salad, all the dishes are hand-selected from local farms.  End the night with a signature “Strand House Margarita” at the adjacent Strand Bar while local DJs spin the latest hits.

2. Terranea

Indulge in an evening of relaxation at Terranea, a luxurious oceanfront resort in Palos Verdes with front-row views of Catalina Island. Whether you want a small bite or a decadent meal, the resort offers a variety of dining options. For an inventive twist on California cuisine, Mar’sel features Hawaiian Hamachi and homemade potato gnocchi, among other fine dishes. Sip on a Tropical Bikini Martini by the fireplace at the Lobby Bar & Lounge while you enjoy live piano and jazz music. Catalina Kitchen hosts a seafood buffet every Friday, as well as their popular Sunday brunch. And for a post-workout snack, choose from a wide selection of smoothies and salads at the Spa Café.

3. The Sunset

Cruise up the coast to The Sunset Restaurant, a Southern California landmark that has been satisfying customers for over a hundred years. Located on the beachfront in Malibu, this spot offers both a bistro and a lounge. After a bowl of the Sunset Clam Chowder and an order of beer-battered fish and chips, choose from the extensive wine list before taking a seat at the downstairs bar, watching the waves crash on the shore as you sit comfortably on one of the nautical-inspired pillow seats.

4. Shutters

Whether you want to grab a quick cup of coffee or indulge in an afternoon of wine tasting followed by dessert, Shutters On The Beach has it all. This hip hotel hosts several of the best dining spots in Santa Monica. Have lunch with the ladies at One Pico, which features a variety of tasty dishes, including the Pumpkin Cappellacci pasta and fresh Ahi Tuna. For a more casual dining experience head on over to Coast, where you can fill up on fish tacos, crab cakes or a good ole’ fashioned Coast Cheeseburger on a pretzel bun. Then get comfortable on one of the couches at the Living Room and throw back a Starfish Mojito as you immerse yourself in the ultimate beach cottage experience.

5. Geoffrey’s

Located on the site of the former Holiday House, Geoffrey’s first opened its doors in 1983 and since then it has served as a restaurant to the stars for several decades.  Their Lobster Cobb Salad, Tahitian Corn Chowder and Shiitake Mushroom Omelette are out of this world. Be sure to add the Classic Geoffrey’s Crème Brulee on your list of desserts to devour.

6. The Lobster

At the corner of Ocean Avenue and the Santa Monica Pier you’ll find The Lobster, a restaurant that was originally established in 1923. Stop by for their Happiest Hour and take advantage of the indulgent truffle Parmesan fries, lobster and shrimp corn dogs, along with their Cantaloupe Martini and popular Southern Tea. Their unique menu features festive after-dinner drinks like the Jamaican Sunset and the Boardwalk Blast, as well as their infamous pineapple upside down cake.

7. Moonshadows

For a night out with friends, head over to Moonshadows in Malibu,  a place where sexy meets the sea and locals and visitors alike can unwind in style. As you make your way into the main dining room, stop by the Blue Lounge Bar on the patio for a pre-dinner drink, then enjoy the live DJ sets as you spend the rest of your evening feasting on the Ripe Red D’Anjou Pear Salad and Chilled Mexican White Shrimp Cocktail, soaked in spicy Wasabi Bloody Mary Cocktail sauce.

8. Catch at Casa del Mar

Hotel Casa Del Mar is home to the infamous Catch Restaurant, which offers charming views of the Pacific Ocean and a range of dishes that are all freshly prepared with local seafood and Farmer’s Market vegetables. They also offer a gluten-free menu for the more finicky eater. After your main meal, sashay over to the Lobby Lounge which features a diverse wine bar for the self-acclaimed vino. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, stop by the cocktail trolley and allow one of the on-hand expert mixologists to create a custom cocktail tailored to suit your palette.

9. Chez Jay

Known as the place where “stars go to slum”, this local celebrity dive spot is just half a block south of the Santa Monica Pier and is the perfect place to go for some prime people-watching.  Get your steak made any way you like, from Filet Mignon to New York Cut Steak, and don’t forget to try the sticky toffee pudding for dessert. Chez Jay also serves a mean breakfast on the weekends, and if you get up early enough, you just might catch sight of Ben Affleck or some of the other famous regulars seated at Table 10 in the back.

10. The Penthouse

For those that have always wanted to dine in the sky, look no further. The Penthouse, located eighteen stories above the shore in the exclusive Huntley Hotel, offers sweeping ocean views all the way to Malibu. A modern fusion of American, Asian and Pacific cuisine, the menu at this Santa Monica hotspot includes the Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich, Steamed Mediterranean Mussels and New Zealand Snapper. For dessert, the Grilled Peach Napoleon will send your taste buds into a state of flavorful bliss.

Congratulations MTV! Your ex-reality stars are fashionably making headlines that we just can’t get enough of. It wasn’t too long ago, we here at “Minx Society” covered the phenomenal Lauren Conrad’s look, but it’s pretty obvious she’s not the only one looking fabulous. Her Hill’s co-star and friend, Whitney Port started the week and ended the month of April looking rather amazing as she attended Australia’s “Mercedes-Benz” fashion week this past Monday (4/30), as the designer was diligently ready to unveil her Spring/Summer 2012/13 “Whitney Eve” and “WE by Whitney Eve” collections. Talk about being picture perfect, Ms. Port showed us a thing or two about rocking an outfit with style and grace, and of course we took notes, now it’s your turn.

Now you want to start off by thinking texture and shimmer-esque. Has a nice ring to it, right? Whitney pairs a textured mini skirt with a simple tank or blouse topped off with a shimmering blazer.  But hey! If you want to cut out a step, you could even try a dress that has a similar effect as the skirt and blouse. Accessories include a gold necklace with a variety of multi-colored bangles, and if you’re feeling good, go head and put a ring on it, no need to limit yourself here. Grab a dazzling bag and again like Lauren, those amazing strappy heels.  Thinking Color? Pucker those lips of yours and do them some justice by applying your favorite shade of red. You my friend are absolutely stunning. Now go ahead and work your port-inspired ensemble, no one shall dare stop you.

Get Whitney’s look via our Style Gallery: Ponte Boyfriend Blazer ($70), Gold Boyfriend Jacket ($545), Silk Tank ($185) Pins & Needles Lurex & Lace Dress ($79), Fringed Mini Skirt ($64), Layered Mini Skirt ($375), Lopez Metallic Suede Sandals ($156), Laure Strappy Heels ($525), Valentino Cage Sandals ($752), Beaded Tube Necklace ($28), Crystal Classics Dimple Mesh Clutch ($172), & Mixed Up Bangle Bracelet ($28).

Photo By: Aimee Song

For the young woman on the go, getting dressed on a daily basis can become tedious, especially when you’ve worn almost every possible combination of items in your closet. But just when you thought you were running out of ideas, in steps Australian-based Keepsake The Label to save the day. Designed with today’s busy young woman in mind, Keepsake aspires to create couture-inspired outfits with a focus on wear-ability, bringing luxe designs into your everyday life that are bound to make a statement wherever you go.

Keepsake’s Modern Drama collection is here just in time for spring, complete with energetic bursts of color, creative cutouts, flirtatious mini-dresses and elegant floor-length numbers for more upscale venues. Some of the highlights from the collection include the flamenco-inspired Blame Game Dress ($177), the high-low Moonlight Dancer Dress ($156), and the craftily cut Follow Me Dress ($104).

Hollywood favorites that have been spotted wearing some of Keepsake’s most popular pieces include Nicole Richie, who looks positively whimsical in the lemon-colored Lost Without You Dress ($136), with cut-outs and frills in all the right places. Disney damsel Demi Lovato shows us her flirtatious side with the Paradise Stars Playsuit ($146), while Kendall Jenner recently strutted down the red carpet in her Secret World Cape Dress ($167).

Keepsake is available at Planet Blue, Nasty Gal and Fashion Bunker, some other classic favorites of ours are:  Paradiese Stars Dress ($168), Wide Eyes Dress ($154), & Moonlight Dancer Dress ($168). You can also like Keepsake on Facebook, read their daily blog, and check out their most recent lookbook video here:

Whoever said dressing in “White” wasn’t easy? For MTV’s reality-TV personality, designer and author Lauren Conrad, that just doesn’t seem to be the case.  Promoting her latest book “The Fame Game” this past Tuesday, April 24^th in the city we know and love, Los Angeles, the young starlet glistened from head to toe in her all-white attire at the Grove’s Barnes & Noble. Not to mention, her hot pink ponytail was just enough color to have all eyes on her.

With a studded sheer blouse, loosely pleated mini skirt and strappy heels Conrad shows us it’s gonna’ be “all-white”, teaching us how to look effortlessly chic in a color many tend to shy away from.  Wearable? Absolutely! When it comes to accessories, no need to go overboard, after all the main attraction here is the garments, and YOU of course. Keep it simple by pairing your outfit with a bracelet or two, a metallic, white or gold clutch or bag, topped off with that beautiful smile of yours (you know, the one slowing being revealed, right about now) and your sure to have everyone saying your name or at least wondering what it is.

To work Lauren’ s hair do’, you don’t need to dye your tresses; you can do something temporary and easy: DIY chalking (click here to learn how). Achieve Lauren’s easy-to-do look via our Style Gallery: Sparkle & Fade Constellation Shirt ($59) Fresh Air Blouse ($38), Textured Lantern Skirt ($70), Side Pleated Leather Skirt ($405), Lurex Patchwork Skirt ($275), Limbo Suede Strappy Platforms ($130), Jen’s Pirate Booty Gypsy Gold Bangles ($38), Deena & Ozzy Metal Edge Satchel ($69),  Rebecca Minkoff Quilted Bag ($250), & Wildness Platforms ($90).

Modern American cuisine is a fusion of the food and cooking options that were available post colonization and America’s birth, with a fresh focus on vegetables and meats, lots of grilling and roasting. Perfect for spring! Think trendy and upscale spots that do those American classics with a twist that’s oh-so-right. Some restaurants revamp tradition better than others; here are some Los Angeles choices with creative menus and appealing atmospheres.

1. Bar & Kitchen

This restaurant is located in the lobby at the O Hotel in downtown L.A. Take a seat around the fire for a cozy meal in this low-key restaurant. Grab a creative cocktail from the mixologist like the “Living Daylights” or “Lime-aid”, or some sangria to pair with your Ahi Tuna Panini and truffle tater tots. The menu is always changing, but a current favorite of ours is the creamed kale, skirt steak & the shrimp & grits.

2. The Kitchen

The Kitchen, Silver Lake’s tiny and hip modern American spot is open until midnight every day except Sunday (when they close at 10 PM.) There is both indoor and outdoor seating, and for drinks there are beer and wine options. Basically everything on the menu is amazing, but our favorites include the juicy turkey burger with guacamole and basil mayo, garlic mac n cheese, goat cheese latkes, or pear pancakes.

3. Magnolia

It isn’t easy to get the trifecta of characteristics that make a great restaurant and bar–quality, affordability, and style–but if there’s a place in Hollywood that has all three, it’s Magnolia Hollywood. The menu is to die for, offering traditional American fare with a SoCal touch: for instance, avocado is a fixture and shows up in appetizers like the tuna tartare ($14), salads like the beet & avocado with roasted pistachios, or sandwiches like the BLAT ($9). The menu is always changing, but entrees include the cedar plank grilled salmon, or the organic herb-roasted chicken, which is raised free-range. The grilled marinated skirt steak comes highly recommended, and for dessert you must try the mint chocolate chip ice cream sandwiches.

4. First & Hope

First & Hope is the kind of ultra swank hotspot that’s begging you to come and play on a night out. A glitzy “supper club” where the hostess wears a pearl colored gown, live jazz filters through the joint, and a purplish flush from the chrome and LED lights illuminates the tables. Menu offerings are modern American with a Southern twist & they’re nothing short of tantalizing. Try cocktails like the “Blackberry Cobbler” and “Champagne Julep” and entrees like the “BBQ Fried Oysters” and the “Crabmeat Justine Pot Pie,” are easy to share. While the creative entrees, like “Nenaw’s Picnic Basket” which comes with deep-fried buttermilk hen, potato salad and collard greens, and the “Moonshine Meatloaf” will leave you all but torn on what to order.

5. Fundamental LA

Westwood is home to this surprisingly hip mid city spot that’s ideal for a nice lunch. It has a minimalist décor, wide tables, and open kitchen. Start with crispy kale chips, fresh oysters, or grilled romaine. For your entree check out the standard chicken torta or one of the other sandwiches that vary from week to week. For a sweet treat try the vanilla cream soda or the butterscotch churros.

6. LA Market

“Rock n’ Roll Chef” Kerry Simon’s LA Market captures modern American cooking with California flair. Located on the lobby level of the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE, menu highlights include Crisp Fried Calamari with spicy Asian ponzu; Bricked Organic Chicken with organic farro, braised beet greens and citrus jus and Meatball Pizza with oven roasted tomatoes and ricotta. The dessert menu recalls the classics with the Twice Baked Banana Bread with spiked caramel, malted brown sugar crunch and bourbon ice cream and the Junk Food Platter, which features childhood favorites like cotton candy and hostess cupcakes.

7.  Public Kitchen & Bar

Public Kitchen & Bar features a menu of eclectic American fare from Executive Chef Tim Goodell. Inside you’ll find class and elegance throughout, with dark woods, massive silver chandeliers, oversized leather booths, a liquor display wall, and an expansive bar that stretches into the lobby of The Roosevelt. We recommend the Prime Skirt Steak, Roasted Brussel Sprouts, & Lobster Gnochi.

8. Gjelina

With a hip, rustic urban decor and a dining room full of the west-side’s most beautiful people, Gjelina feels like it has been curated by the coolest gallery owner in the city.  The eclectic menu measures up to it’s reputation; Gjelina simply does everything just perfectly. Make a reservation ASAP and try the Fontina, Goat Cheese & Truffle Oil Pizza, Braised Pork Meatballs, Braised Artichokes with Burrata, & Grilled East Coast Squid.

You know what they say “April showers brings May flowers..” & it looks like LA were headed for full bloom! While we minxes enjoy listening to the rain pitter patter from the inside…it’s sometimes a nightmare figuring out what to wear without looking like mom dressed us back in 1st grade! Here are our top rainy day accessories to keep you staying dry!

Check out Minx Society’s picks via our Style Gallery: Free People Printed Lace Raincoat ($88),  Nasty Gal Madysin Jacket ($54),  Rainy Day Boot ($39), Hunter Gloss Original boots ($125), Jonathan Adler Umbrella ($29), Splendid Thermal Leggings ($60), Blue Moon Slouch Sweater Jacket ($158), J Brand Coated Super Skinny Jeans ($158), Belted Ankle Strap Rain Boot ($72), Member’s Only Hooded Jacket ($98), Phillip Lim Cropped Rain Coat ($450), Givenchy Riding Rain Boot ($250), Bubble Umbrella ($18), Phillip Lim Patent Satchel ($599), Leopard Print Umbrella ($6!), & Clear Plastic Mac Coat ($72).