O how I adore summer, I mean spring, I mean the end of fall.. forgive me I get confused.  Weather, like unisex bathrooms, is so ambiguous in San Diego, that you can never tell from one hour to the next whether you should rock the vegan-leather jacket, throw the tunic sweater in the side bag, or say F it and go all “long-cotton-tank” with colored tube bra as the only barrier from nudity. I am a big fan of the tube bra, but that’s just me being semi perverted. Regardless of the perversion, we all feel that SD is ready to warm up and stay up; Mother Earth has filled up our coastline with its yearly prescription of warm weather Viagra and we are ready to ride, ride, ride!

Besides the warm sensations of approaching summer, my mind is a buzz with the fuzzy apprehension of spring’s new fashion lines. One of my fav, fav, favorite boutiques Mimi and Red, has launched their store on the big bad web. Mimiandred.com now features new pieces that you can find in the North Park store, plus extras. Having their own website allows us busy shopaholics to relish in our addiction just a little more. So thank you Mimi and Red, you’ve just made many people re-think their online shopping budget for the month. Already having made a significant dent in my bank account on Mimi and Red’s new site I shall share some of my favorite fixes, I mean purchases.

Often times I will go into a store with the sole intention of buying an item that is necessary for some function and will come out with only accessories. Such a dilemma almost claimed me in my first visit to Mimiandred.com. Nashelle Nameplate Necklace was the piece that stole my heart and half of my budget (it was a small budget for that day). The piece compliments the chest very well, at least my chest, which is 99% of the reason I bought it. If you’re not looking to load up on gorgeous chains, and need something that can work for work and play then you must check out the Jack Susan Dress. This navy-colored gem paired with a fitted blazer could easily take you into the office at the top of your game; add a push up bra, nix the blazer dawn some shiny accessories and viola you’re ready for the club/ beer bar! No matter where you are you’ll be styling. If you’re as stoked about continuous sunshine then you must pick up Mimi and Red’s Haven Amy Romper in coral multi print. This light-airy piece is perfect that in between weather, and also for showing off your killer stems (if ya got’em show’em). The print is mad fun and busy, which for many of us is the quintessential combination.

Regardless of what you are looking for, you’ll find something unique at Mimi & Red, and now you can find it in the comfort of your home or office cubicle. Shop safely friends.

Other Items you may enjoy….

For more great items check out Mimi and Red in North Park (3032 University avenue San Diego, CA, 92104) or online at mimiandred.com.

Congratulations to Jennie Hinkle, creator of Unstandard Deviations for being voted by YOU as Commune’s Featured Local of the month! I met up with Jennie to congratulate her on winning and also to get the dirt on what she has going on.

1. How did you come up with the name Unstandard Deviations and what inspires your pieces?

My jewelry is unique and usually the first thing people say about it is, wow I’ve never seen anything like that. So I actually had a really hard time coming up with a name that I felt worked for my jewelry. I made lists, looked at synonyms, asked friends for opinions, etc. I knew I wanted it to be something that was unique, bold, and different. I wanted it be something that made people think. It needed to portray the nonconformity, and the “against the grain” quality that my jewelry carries along with it. I finally came up with “Unstandard Deviations” and the tag line “jewelry that defies the norm”. It stems from the statistical term “standard deviation” and how it relates to bell curves. Once I came up with the name, I knew there was no turning back.

2. Without giving away your secrets, what are your pieces made out of?

Most of my pieces are made from a material called polystyrene, a thermoplastic. This material allows me to make pretty much any image into a piece of jewelry (providing I have the legal right to use the image). I also use glass microscope slides on some pieces to encase collage images. All the chains I use are sterling silver and can be shiny or darkened according to personal preference. I want everyone to have something they feel represents them, so I am all about doing custom work as well as making that perfect piece for each and every person! I am also a silversmith, and at some point will be offering some of those creations on my Etsy store as well.

3. Where can people check out your stuff?

There are several places to check out my stuff. My website is: www.unstandarddeviations.com. On the site, you can find links to my Etsy web store, my Facebook page, my MySpace page, as well as info on any upcoming shows where I am showing my jewelry. Two San Diego locations display and sell my work: “My Authentic Self” (416 University Avenue in Hillcrest) and “Lady Luxe Saloon” (1017 10th Avenue in the downtown area). I am now also in a store in New Mexico called “Ancient Road”. It is pretty exciting to now be in two states!

4. What is your favorite thing about Commune?

I love Commune for bringing non-judgmental awareness to the community. I also love how Commune supports local artists, designers, bands, and dj’s- I was so super excited to be a part of January’s Commune Wednesday at the Whistlestop. The people that support the events are all open minded, ready to learn and/or educate others, eager to be inspired, there to support the cause and the participants, and ultimately, to feel a part of the community. What could be better than that?

5. Why do you think it’s important to stand up against tobacco corporations?

The proof is there- there just is no doubt as to the damage, often lethal, of using tobacco. Addiction was planned. Tobacco companies know exactly what they are doing when they target kids, teenagers, women, – and they are now creating demand for tobacco products in Third World areas. Knowing what they know about their product, their actions are unconscionable. Addiction to a drug, and nicotine is certainly a drug, is not good for the world.

Tobacco corporations are takers. Their product takes our air, our health, our money and our focus. Land used to grow tobacco could be used for a much greater purpose. Tobacco takes away our own personal ability to manage our emotions and perceptions; the ability to learn how to relax naturally is a skill lost by smokers who rush to light up when stress arrives.

There is an all too common attitude among smokers that they are only harming themselves by smoking- but it is clear that is just not the case- just being around smoke causes harm. Tobacco companies kill not just their customers- those customers who believe smoking is a “choice”- but all of us around those customers- 1 in 5 deaths is related to tobacco.

Being aware and informed will give us the best shot at standing up against these corporations. As someone that has fought nicotine addiction (sometimes winning, sometimes losing), it is clear to me that the only benefit to my struggles is to the wallet of the tobacco corporations.

For more on Jennie and Unstandard Deviations click  here

Congrats again to Unstandard Deviations and thanks to everyone who voted.

If you would like to be part of Commune Wednesdays and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact Jenny at jointhecommune@gmail.com

With the holiday spirit ringing in the air, beer-belly Santa’s running rampant through malls and store entrances, rainy freeways, and ridiculous traffic with even more ridiculous drivers; now is the perfect time to stay close home and enjoy some of your favorite local artists.

Despite the despicable economy most everyone still feels the pinch to give back, if you are one of those kind-hearted souls check out our friends Mimi and Red at one of our fav spots El Dorado. Mimi and a sleuth of other local companies will be hosting the Holiday Toy Drive from 9p-12a at the East Village hang out. There’s no cover, just bring in an unwrapped toy of your choice (Super Soakers are a timeless pick) or $10 that will go towards buying new toys. When you buy for someone else, despite how empty your bank account is your heart will be full, especially with that corny metaphor.

All that giving really leaves my soul yearning for some inspiration… of the visual sense. Stop by 3795 30^th for Wish You Were Beer with art by Brian Clinebell and Taylor Johnson, plus you never what local superstars might meander in. This should definitely be a stop on your Saturday night. With monsoon weather, do something different and check this shenanigan out.

Now I’m a big fan of the 4 day weekend, which starts on Thursday, but since we are all recovered from yesterday and so far you’re weekend is packed, Sunday needs to be perfect ending to this fall wonderland. “Coffee, tea, wine, beer, food, and fun” is on the agenda for this December 13^th. Kensington Café is showcasing the Holiday Trunk Show. Trunks open at 4pm, live music from 6-8pm. All the must have swag by your favorite local artists will be in shining presentation. Don’t miss this early night shindig.

Well folks all I can say about the weekend is that it should be wet ‘n wild, and because dating is hard enough in this city, you’ll find me with mistletoe and Pabst hobbing knobbing through my town, hitting up all these fly events. Stay dry friends;)

This Saturday. October 3^rd from 1:00 PM- 5: 00PM, North Park will host its first-ever Taste of North Park.  More than 30 restaurants and 20 galleries and boutiques will participate in this tantalizing event. The event is the ideal blend of delicious cuisines prepared by top chefs around the neighborhood mixed with the perfect variety of microbrews and flavorful wines.  Tickets to the event are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. Proceeds will benefit the North Park Mainstreet.  Don’t miss this opportunity to sample the best in local North Park dining.

Participants Include:

Restaurants & Bars

Apertivo Italian Tapas & Wine Bar

Bar Pink

Bluefoot Bar & Lounge

Caffé Calabria

*Caffé Carpe Diem

California’s Mexican Food

*Cardamom Café & Bakery

Claire de Lune Coffee Lounge

Eddie’s Philadelphia Steaks

El Comal Antojitos Mexicanos

Heaven Sent Desserts

Junz Teryiaki & BBQ

Mosaic Wine Bar

North Park Panini Place (NP3)

North Park Sushi

Paesano’s Fine Italian Food

Philly Grill

Ranchos Mexican & Vegetarian Cuisine

Ritual Tavern

Sea Rocket Bistro

Splash Wine Bar

The Office Bar, Inc.

Toronado San Diego

True North Tavern

U-31 Bar & Lounge

Uptown Fish Market and Grill

Urban Solace Restaurant

West Coast Tavern

Zensei Sushi

Yog-Art

Galleries, Boutiques, and Salons

A7D Graphic Design & Printing

Cirello Gallery

Disconnected Salon

Flip A Salon

Gorgeous Salon & Gallery

*Kate Ross Boutique

Material

Mesh Boutique

Mimi & Red Boutique

obr architecture

Overload Skate Shop

Pigment

Planet Rooth Studios Gallery

Point of Departure Architecture

Ray Street Custom Framing / Sharp Studio Gallery

San Diego Art Department

Soul Ryde, Inc.

Section 2820 Hair Studio

Taylor Studio/ D’Agostino Fine Art

The Costume Shop

Vintage Religion

To Purchase Tickets go to http://tastenorthpark.com

Love Street Vintage is a unique vintage clothing store run by local North Parker, Sarah Sanaee.  It is stocked with a variety of vintage goodies ranging from 60’s mod era Cindy Brady inspired gear, to 70’s disco party dresses, to comfy old vintage tees.  Although it is mainly filled with stuff for the ladies, there are occasionally some really cool 70s style rocker items for the fellas as well.  I met up with Sarah to get the inside scoop on why she loves vintage and what it was like to be a part of Commune Wednesdays.

“I try to only buy vintage items…not only is it one way to ensure my look will be unique, but it also takes a stand against today’s big fashion industries who use sweatshops to mass produce the clothing you see everywhere.  I know Commune’s main goal is to take a stand against these big corporations so there couldn’t have been a better place for me to showcase my new clothing store.

Commune is definitely the best thing you’ll find going on on a Wednesday night.  It’s always chock-full of good looking, creative, stylish people…the exact types of people I could see rocking the unique vintage pieces I find.   I am most definitely an old soul. I’ve always felt an intense connection to the 60s & 70s- the music, the fashion & the carefree spirit have always intrigued me.  In a way, I’m trying to incorporate that retro vibe into our current scene.  The name Love Street pays homage to The Doors… who I’m pretty sure I partied with in my past life!  If Jim Morrison were alive & rockin’ today, I’m sure you could find him downing some whiskey at Commune this Wednesday, August 26^th.    So come out, have a drink…and sport those Love Street threads!”

Check out Love Street online at www.lovestreetvintage.etsy.com!

If you haven’t had the chance to check out MESH, one of Commune’s favorite local boutiques, today is the day to do it. MESH is celebrating its 3-year anniversary today (8/20/09) and has an unbelievable sale going on. We all know times are tough so why not get stylish AND save money. Sale is from 12pm-8pm and 15%-40% off just about everything! So, if you like hot deals, great clothes, and supporting local, head over to MESH today. 2980 North Park Way @ corner of 30th and North Park Way or check out MESH online at WWW.SHOPMESHSD.COM.

In this current economy, most people are passing on boutique stores because they tend to be the priciest. Luckily for San Diegans, this is not the case for Mimi & Red.

Owners, Rhondda and Michelle, tapped into the neighborhood culture of North Park a little over two years ago. The boutique specializes in women’s clothing and accessories and plans on carrying children’s clothing in the future as well. Mimi & Red is unique as it mixes affordable clothing, jewelry and handbags, with designer jeans, fancy tops and beautiful dresses. This allows those on a tight budget to enjoy the boutique just as much as those seeking more expensive designer clothing.

Going into the boutique is an experience in itself. The interior of the store is filled with fresh flowers and plants as well as exotic décor against dark wood fixtures. The store screams San Diego as beautiful art designed by the city’s local artists cover the patterned walls. Unlike most boutiques, the layout of their clothes and accessories give you a spacious feeling rather than a cluttered and stuffy feeling. Mimi & Red is also known for their spectacular customer service skills as you will never find yourself waiting to be helped nor pushed to buy merchandise.

Frequent customer Shir Balas describes the Mimi & Red experience as “simply dangerous” because she never leaves without buying something. Unfortunately, Mimi & Red does not yet have a working website but you can check them out on MySpace here. If you would like to check out the boutique personally it will be well worth the trip. You can find it at 3032 University Ave in North Park. Happy shopping!