DRESS

You’ve been: waiting patiently for the arrival.

And now: Vivienne Westwood’s Los Angeles boutique on Melrose Ave. is officially open!

Why? Racks of decadence draped on hangers, cases of bold jewelry and accessories, eco-chic shoes and more.

Location: 8230 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, 90048 (map).  Web: viviennewestwood.co.uk.

TOAST

You don’t need: another reason to drink.

But, we’ll give you one anyways: National Drink Wine Day!

Why? Celebrate this “holiday” at Corkbar in Downtown Los Angeles with the launch of their farmers’ market-inspired winter menu and a flight of three wines for $10.

YDT tip: Be sure to check-in on Foursquare to help unlock the “swarm badge” and Corkbar will extend their happy hour throughout the night. Cheers!

Location: 403 W. 12^th St, Los Angeles, 90015 (map).  Date: Friday, February 18.  Web: corkbar.com.

ACCESSORIZE

You have: a shoe problem.

The solution: DecadesTwo.1′s shoe sale.

Why? Gently worn Christian Louboutin boots, YSL peep toe platforms, Jimmy Choo Wedges – do we really need to go on?

Location: 8214 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, 90046 (map).  Date/Time: Saturday, February 19 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Web: decadestwo1.com.

BREW

You drink coffee: like it’s water.

Get your caffeine fix at: Bru Artisan Coffee + Tea.

Why? Down a steaming cup of joe from the socially conscious bay area roaster, Ritual Coffee Roasters, while noshing on bites from Susina Bakery and Cafe.

YDT tip: Keep an eye out for vegan baked goods – coming soon!

Location: 1866 North Vermont Ave., Los Angeles, 90027 (map).  Web: brucoffeebar.com.

On our radar:

WIN

You want: to win two tickets to Breathe LA’s Attire to Aspire fundraiser, featuring a celebrity host, fashion show, cocktails and more!

Enter to win by: “liking” Your Daily Thread and Breathe LA on Facebook. Then be sure to mention you heard about the giveaway via “Your Daily Thread” on Breathe LA’s Facebook wall in order to be eligible.

Why? Winner or not, you can purchase your tickets to the event online with proceeds going towards promoting awareness of the need for clean air – and that’s something we can all breathe easy about.

Location: 6063 W. Sunset Blvd., Tower 2, Los Angeles, 90028 (map). Date/Time: Thursday, February 24. at 6:30 p.m.  Web: breathela.org.

SPONSORED LISTING

Image via Pinterest.

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You want: more food for less money.

Sign up: for dineLA restaurant week and treat yourself to three-course meals at some of the best eateries around town.

Why? White truffle oil and mushroom mac and cheese from Taste; winter wild mushroom cappuccino soup from LA Market by Kerry Simon; or fresh fettuccine with roasted butternut squash, baby broccoli and garlic confit at The Little Door – take your pick!

Dates: Sunday, January 23 through Friday, January 28 and Sunday, January 30 through Friday, February 4 Web: discoverlosangeles.com.

TREAT

You crave: a cool treat for these warm winter days.

You must try: Carmela’s farm-to-scoop batches of creamy goodness made with fresh produce from the Farmers’ Market and Clover Organic Dairy.

Why? Rich flavors like Salted Caramel, Dark Chocolate Cacao Nib and Spiced Strawberry Sorbet will scoop you away.

Location: 2495 E Washington Blvd., Pasadena, 91104 (map)  Web: carmelaicecream.com.

LAVISH

You’re desperate for: sun-kissed bronzed skin without harmful UV rays.

You need: a custom airbrushed tan from Lavish Tan in Venice that uses an organic, brown-sugar based solution.

Why? 10% of all proceeds will be donated to the Skin Cancer Foundation. You glow, girl.

Location: 1636 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 90291 (map)  Web: lavishtan.com.

LOOK AND COOK

You’re hungry for: a taste of history.

Take a bite: out of American Art at the LACMA museum, as ARTBITES leads a tour and discussion on the influence other cultures have had on American artistic and culinary traditions.

Why? Learn how to cook a good ol’ “modern meal” using recipes from historic cookbooks.

Location: Please register here to receive location details.  Date/Time: Tonight, Thursday, January 20 from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Cost: $100 (includes everything from museum entrance fee to wine with dinner)  Web: artbites.net.

Image via Pinterest.

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Get Your Fix

Eating right in the New Year is easier than you think—especially with Veggie Grill’s newest location in Santa Monica. Westsiders can now get their fill of the same delicious vegetarian grub L.A. city folk have gotten used to. Why? With dishes like Papa’s Portebello and Chop Chop Chef, getting the recommended five servings of veggies a day is easier than steamed kale.

Location: 2025 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, 90403 (map) Web: veggiegrill.com.

Get Juiced

Offering freshly squeezed, organic, raw and unpasteurized juices, Pressed Juicery in Brentwood is one flavor-filled find! Detox with any one of its cleanse programs or opt for seasonal picks like Greens 2 or Apple Lemon Ginger a la carte. Go in or order online to have juices delivered daily to your home! Why? You’d be hard-pressed to find another juice bar like this.

Location: 13050 San Vicente Blvd, #120, Los Angeles, 90049 (map)  Web: pressedjuicery.com.

Detox

Purge yourself of toxic and chemical-laden beauty and food products by picking up some matcha green tea, ChocoVivo chocolate (you must try the vanilla and ginger flavor) and more at The Detox Market on Abbot Kinney. Why? This pop-up shop has extended its lease for another four months of clean, green, eco-goods.

Location: 1524 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, 90291 (map)  Web: facebook.com.

This year, resolve to stay away from the gym! Instead we encourage you to stay fit and active with Angela Parker’s Body Inspired Fitness program. Hit the beach for a Saturday morning sweat sesh or sign up for the Body Inspired Camp. Why? Through January 31, enter the Body Inspired 2011 Makeover contest and you could win big with a week of personal training with Angela and all the fixins of a fit 2011! *See below for details.

Location/Date/Time: Please see online schedule for details  Web: bodyinspiredfitness.com.

Stimulate Your Mind and Appetite

Curious about stinky cheese and fragrant cider? Then you’ll love The Curious Palate. This artisanal market, kitchen and café offers finds from local Farmers’ Markets, specialty items like olive oil and hard to come by chocolates, and seasonal dishes – which you can get a peek at here. Why? Inquisitive minds want to try.

Location: 12034 Venice Blvd, Los Angeles, 90066 (map)  Web: thecuriouspalate.com.

Looking for even more ways to stay fit in the New Year? Get moving with some of our other favorite L.A. workouts, as well as these recommended by Exercise L.A.!

*Entry details: Sign up at bodyinspiredfitness.com and then send an email to: Makeover2011@bodyinspiredfitness.com with your name, address and date of birth (you must be 18 years of age or older to win), stating why 2011 is YOUR year, as well as what inspires you. Please be sure to include a current full body photo of yourself. The winner will be notified via email by Angela herself.

Images via Pinterest, The Detox Market, Flickr user twicepix, Etsy user sixthandmain, and The Curious Palate.

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For the Wannabe Olympic Figure Skater

Move over Kristi Yamaguchi, eat your heart out Oksana Baiul, ‘cause this girl is skating through.  Hit the ice (hopefully not literally) and show off your skills at any one of the skate rinks around town.  Why? Where else are your nylon leggings and sequined tops not only appropriate, but part of the actual uniform?

Location: Visit one of these outdoor ice skating rinks in Los Angeles.

For the College Kid in You

Relive the good old days with warm beer, crowded bars and quirky songs by Neil Diamond (Sweet Caroline anyone?) during The 2^nd Annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl. Select your preferred route of the evening and dress in Holiday gear (think: Santa Claus get-ups, elf overalls, etc.) for a night of merriment, drinks and food specials. Why? Through a partnership with the Westside Food Bank, this event will help to raise money and food for those in need during the Holidays.

Location: Routes vary. Date/Time: Saturday, December 18 at 5 p.m. Cost: You must bring a minimum of three cans of non-perishable food items to one of the official starting locations. For more details and to sign up please click here. Web: santamonicapubcrawl.com.

For the Valley Girl

The Valley isn’t all heat waves and malls – as if. Head down Ventura Blvd. and you’ll find yoga studios galore, eco-boutiques and splendid eateries like Sweet Butter Kitchen, Café & Market. This three-in-one spot comes complete with an herb garden, hand-selected specialty items from the marketplace and fresh coffee via Intelligentsia. Why? Perfect for a light breakfast after your Pilates class or great for lunch after some miniature golf at the Sherman Oaks Castle Park.

Location: 13824 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks 91423 (map). Web: sweetbutterkitchen.com.

For the Last Minute Shopper

Potluck dinners and office parties gotten in the way of your holiday shopping, have they? Don’t settle for a plain ol’ gift card – instead, head to Montana Ave. on Saturday where stores will host all day specials on items you know your BFF, mom and aunt will love. Why? After grabbing some great pieces at delightful prices, stop into Kreation Kafe for an order of organic blueberry pancakes and a cup of organic Blooming White Tea.

Location: Montana Ave., Santa Monica 90403 (map)  Date/Time: Saturday, December 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Web: montanaave.com.

Step out of the holiday madness and into the sweet serenity that is Bloumebaby in Manhattan Beach. This recently opened earth-friendly retail store has everything a busy mom and her babe could need: from slings and carriers to toys and bedding. Why? Take 15% off your in-store purchase when you mention Your Daily Thread.

Location: 1300 Highland, Store #103, Manhattan Beach 90266 (map)  Web: bloumebaby.com.

Images via Sweet Butter – Kitchen, Cafe & Market, Bloumebaby.com and Flickr users paper_plane, shandeh and carbonated.

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Unique LA

The highly anticipated independent design and gift show has finally come to town. Two days of trinkets, charms and treats, as well as an eco-lounge (hosted by Yours Truly) featuring DIY workshops and activities. Why? No need to wait to find out who made Santa’s “nice” list – buy your friends and yourself a little something-something from any of the 300 vendors taking part.

Location: California Market Center’s Penthouse, 110 E 9th St., Los Angeles 90079 (map) Date/Time: Saturday, December 11 and Sunday, December 12 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days  Cost: $10 at the door or in advance (kids 12 and under are free).  Web: uniquela.com.

Artisanal LA

After picking up gifts at Unique LA, venture across the street to this this Holiday Pop-Up Shop. If you missed Artisanal LA the first time around, then this is the perfect opportunity to stuff your face – and your stockings – with eats from some of the most scrumptious local delicatessens. Why? Show your Unique LA wristband and get $1 off your ticket, or indulge your sweet tooth first, followed by 2-for-1 admission when you show your foodie bracelet at the craft fair.

Location: 851 Santee Street, Downtown Los Angeles 90015  (directions)  Date/Time: Saturday, December 11 and Sunday, December 12 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (both days).  Cost: $6 (cash at the door)  Web: artisanalla.com.

A Current Affair

We can already hear the sound of fall’s hottest wedges galloping down the hallways of the Cooper Design Building as hordes of L.A. ladies (and gents) shuffle and scuffle for some of the most chic vintage wear around. This pop-up vintage market place will feature a selection of vintage merchants, selling items on every fashionista’s wish list. Why? After winning the pot at last night’s dreidel game, that vintage Chanel is yours.

Location: Cooper Design Space Penthouse, 11^th Floor, 860 S. Los Angeles St., Los Angeles 90014 (map)  Date/Time: Friday, December 10 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday, December 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Cost: $10  Web: itsacurrentaffair.com.

Silver Lake Holiday Nights Out

Deck the halls with boughs of holly or any other goodies you find at any one of the participating stores during Silver Lake’s holiday shopping event. Shop the sales, cast your vote for your favorite window display, listen to carolers sing and more, both this and next Friday. Why? Avoid the insanity of the mall; support local businesses.

Location: Participating businesses can be found on Sunset, Hyperion, Rowena, Glendale and Silver Lake (map). Date/Time: Fridays, December 10 & 17 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.  Web: silverlakechamber.com.

Images via Etsy users sixthandmain, Artisanal LA, and A Current Affair.

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The Green Life Store in Santa Monica.

Mini-makeovers provided by W3ll People and nail polish by Priti NYC.

Sweets provided by Luscious Organic Desserts.

We loved the organic and vegan cupcakes!

Sweet times with the ladies of Luscious Organic Desserts and YDT.

The Green Life Store is perfect for your everyday (and holiday) shopping needs!

Images courtesy of Vanessa Crocini.

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“15.6 miles you say? I can walk that in my sleep.” Put your sneakers where your feet are and take part in the second annual Great Los Angeles Walk. Strut your stuff down Wilshire Blvd. along with hundreds of others as they take to the streets of L.A. Why? Get your exercise in now – Thanksgiving is only a week away!

Location: Meet at Pershing Square, walk down Wilshire and end in Santa Monica. Date/Time: Saturday, November 20. The event kicks off at 9:30 a.m. and the walk begins promptly at 10 a.m.  Cost: Free.  Web: http://www.greatlawalk.com/.

Preserving the Season

Give Mom and Dad the gift they’ve always wanted: a signature spice blend to call their own! Learn how to make said spice along with homemade herb vinegar, gourmet seasonings, jelly trios and  handmade biscotti during a four-hour food preservation class at Angeli Caffe. Why? Bottle up great memories, good times and wonderful tastes!

Location: Angeli Caffe, 7274 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles 90046 (map)  Date/Time: Saturday, November 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost: $125 per person. Please RSVP to Delilah Snell at 714.836.8727 or delilahsnell@yahoo.com.  Web:http://www.angelicaffe.com/classes/.

Food Matters

Our portions may be large, but our food supplies are, well…dwindling. Take part in this weekend’s fifth installment of FoodStuff LA, The Future of Urban Agriculture & Local Food, where you will have the chance to speak with a panel of experts regarding some of the challenges and obstacles Los Angeles faces in creating a food secure future. Why? Your (food) security is important to us.

Location: 1855 Industrial St. Suite 106, Los Angeles 90021 (map)  Date/Time: Friday, November 19 at 7 p.m.  Cost: Free  Web: http://pedalpatchcommunity.org/.

On Our Radar

Sometimes you have to give a little to get a little

When it comes to Cart for a Cause, you will get a lot. Track down the truck and for only $10 you will be provided a freshly prepared meal by a top celebrity chef, a healthy snack and/or dessert (we’re hoping for the latter) and a beverage, all served on eco-ware. Why? 100% of the proceeds go to the St. Vincent Meals on Wheels program to feed a homebound senior.

Web: http://www.facebook.com/CartForACause/.

Images courtesy of EU Kicks, Etsy users BlessedTimes2 and Love Sugar, LA Tartine Gourmande, and Flickr user <-Matt->.

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One Hot Tamale

The gloves have come off and the aprons are on as four restaurants compete to win the title of best tamale maker in town at the Los Angeles Tamale Throwdown. Leave your bike with the valet (provided by Flying Pigeon LA) and join in on the flavor-full and fun-filled activities like a tamale eating contest and coffee sampling.  Why? Don’t mess with the best.

Location: 4522 Browne Ave., Los Angeles 90032 (map)  Date/Time: Friday, November 12 from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday, November 13  from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.  Cost: Please bring one can of food to be donated to families in need in the area  Web: Find the Los Angeles Tamale Throwdown on facebook .

You Have Arrived at Your Destination

Head to Spice Station in Santa Monica or Silver Lake, where you will find over 200 chiles, blends and herbs that will transport you from bland and boring dishes to flavorful, “I’ve never been here before” meals. Why? Add some spice to your life: if you can’t make it into the shop, order your spices online!

Location: Silver Lake, 3819 W. Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles 90026 (map) 323.660.2565 and Santa Monica 2305 Main St., Santa Monica 90405 (map) Web: spicestationsilverlake.com.

Shop With a Chef

A morning tour of the Los Angeles Fish Market followed by a trip to 99 Ranch Market ends in a flurry of Southeast Asian inspired flavor as Chef Mohan of RockSugar Pan Asian Kitchen demonstrates how to prepare the ingredients picked up at said stops. Why? Slightly pricey, but worth every bite of Sesame Shrimp Toast, Wok Fried Vegetables and Crispy Organic Tofu.

Location: WestField Century City, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles 90067 (map) Date/Time: Saturday, November 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost: $150 per person. RSVP is required; please call 310.552.9988.  Web: rocksugarpanasiankitchen.com.

Poetry in Motion

Poetry meets the streets of Downtown Los Angeles on a guided cultural, historical and architectural exploration of Little Tokyo. This urban adventure is led by Angeleno Mike Sonksen (aka ‘Mike the Poet’) of Urban Hikes: Forgotten LA who will spit out sonnets as you take the tour on Sunday, November 14. Why? After the hike refuel with some local cuisine and organic eats.

Location: Details upon sign up  Date/Time: Sunday, November 14 at 11 a.m.  Cost: $15 Please purchase your ticket or RSVP by Friday, November 12  Web: aplusd.org/urban-hikes.

Images courtesy of The Garlic Girl, Design*Sponge, Taco Town, Etsy users violetclair and dekanimal, and Flickr user Gatochy.

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