Before we get into the lowdown on the free-booze-infused, no-rsvp-needed, Dior-themed shindig on Thursday, here’s some brief but essential context for all you youngsters: The ultra-feminine silhouettes that embodied Dior's "New Look" collection (think voluminous skirts and nipped-in waists), pushed the proverbial envelope and helped wartime womenswear firmly move away from solemn, boxy cuts and modest shapes. Needless to say, in 1947, Christian Dior completely rocked the world.

Now, 65 years later, S.F. shop The Factory and its neighbor, Code Salon, are collaborating on “Dior: A Life in Pictures,” a party to bring Bay Area peeps a taste of the historic collection through a living installation of the OG images.

What does that mean exactly? While we're not entirely sure, we know you can expect Dior’s iconic New Look photos on display and left largely intact, in addition to a bevy of real models mimicking the iconic poses of the ladies in said photos.

Ready to stroll down one of fashion’s most seminal forks on memory lane? Us, too. Plus, free treats, live music, and cocktails will be provided. All you need to do is show up in your Dior-inspired best.

When: Thursday, May 24, 7 p.m.
Where: Code Salon and The Factory,
 370 4th Street (at Clara Street); 415-624-8340.

Photo: Via Code Salon

Sure, you could circle department store counters spritzing the latest celeb-endorsed scents (yawn), but we think learning the perfume-making practice sounds a lot more enticing, no? And that’s exactly what's going down at Ver Unica's latest shindig with the natural-scent pros at Sebastian Signs.

Head to the Hayes Valley vintage shop to get a whiff of the perfumer's newest Purusa Naturals Line and sip on glasses of bubbly while noshing on treats. And in case you’re stumped with any eau de parfum conundrums, perfume maker Sherri Sebastian will be on hand to dish out loads of intel.

But wait, it gets better. This event is a twofer. Yep, while soaking in the aforementioned festivities you can ogle new designs from jewelry line Metal Smith, too. Peep the full deets below.

When: Saturday, May 12, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Ver Unica, 526 Hayes Street (between Laguna and Octavia streets); 415-621-6259.

Photo: Via Facebook/Sebastian Signs

Remember about a month ago when we gave you a sneak peek into PUBLIC Bikes’ sweet new setup on Valencia Street? Well, the wait is over. The red ribbon is ready to be cut, and the doors are swinging open — in style. And naturally, PUBLIC is hosting a happening shindig to celebrate its hub (um, pun intended) nestled inside Harrington Galleries. And if it’s anything like previous PUBLIC Bikes parties, we know there’s ample fun in store.

Mosey on in this Saturday, when the bike company will debut a slew of brand-spankin’-new cycle shades. They even have a limited edition Golden Gate Bridge-colored one on deck — better get on it, those are going to go like hotcakes. And that’s not all — of course drinks, live music, food, and deals will be going down, too. We couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny Saturday afternoon. So, see you there?



RSVP: Here!
When: Saturday, May 12, 2 to 6 p.m.
Where: PUBLIC Bikes Pop-Up At Harrington Galleries, 599 Valencia Street (at 17th Street); 415-861-7300.

Photo: Courtesy of Public Bikes

It's time to dust off that gown hanging in the back of your closet, vying for a chance to see a sliver of light (or splurge on a new one, if you feel so inclined). We've found the perfect occasion to sport that glitzy number. At the upcoming SFMOMA Modern Ball, which is arguably the most buzzed-about soiree in the city, you can finally get decked out while taking part in the bash-slash-fundraiser’s top-notch art, cocktails, grub (Tacolicious, anyone?), and lounges. Plus, you'll get to groove to tunes from Poolside and Chromeo.

Our sartorial advice? Steer clear of any cerulean frocks, so to keep from blending in with the party’s Picasso Blue Period theme. Our epicurean advice? Before hitting up the ball’s post-modern party, we suggest wining and dining at the affiliated supper club, which promises to be filled with gourmet delights and endless glasses of Patrón. Wowza! Then, head over to the main event, where you can dance, drink, and eat to your heart’s content until the clock strikes midnight. Um, we think our fairy-tale princess fantasies (un-PC as they might be) might just be coming true. Want to be the belle of the ball? Peep the deets below and grab your tickets pronto.

When: Wednesday, April 25, 9:00 p.m to 12 a.m.
Where:SFMOMA, 151 3rd Street (between Mission and Howard streets); 415-357-4000.
Price: $127; Buy tickets here!

Photo: Courtesy of SFMOMA

It seems that those hailing from outside of California like to associate the entire Golden State with the Hollywood scene, leaving us SF'ers with the daunting task of explaining that red carpets are only rolled out on the SoCal side — until now, that is.

In celebration of H&M’s exclusive and eco-friendly Glamour Collection, San Francisco’s Powell Street locale will be inviting the brand’s Facebook fans for a special launch party and a crimson carpet will, oddly enough, be present.

Want to get involved? Bay Area dwellers are just a "like" button away from hitting the event, sipping on endless drinks, indulging in decadent desserts, and — the best part — scoring 25% off all purchases during the shindig. Just mention the magic words "sustainable style" at the checkout counter and the discount is all yours.

The soiree is one of only four happening across the nation, so we suggest clicking the thumbs up icon on H&M's Facebook page at lightning speed, and making your red carpet debut, posthaste.

When: Thursday, April 12, noon to 6 p.m.
Where: H&M, 150 Powell Street (at O'Farrell Street); 415-986-4215.

Photo: Via H&M.

Want to kick off your weekend in an atypical — and completely amazing — way? Then head on over to Hayes Valley shop Dish, where master Berkeley perfumer and all-around in-touch lady Yosh will be hosting a trunk show for her amazing scents and offering complimentary color readings with each purchase.

Seriously, even if you're not the hippie-dippy get-your-aura-color-read type, we can attest that what Yosh does is pretty spectacular. Think your inner aura is mauve? Electric blue? Bombshell red? There's only one way to find out...and really, it's all in great fun.

Peep the deets below and get ready to sniff and get sniffed out by Yosh herself. Plus, if you haven't checked out Dish yet, prepare to fall in love and empty your wallet. Yeah, we're kinda fans, over here.

When: Friday, March 30, 5:30 p.m.
Where: Dish Boutique, 541 Hayes Street (between Octavia and Laguna streets); 415-252-5997.
RSVP: 415-252-5997

Photo: Via Facebook/Yosh

Think getting all dolled up and breaking out your fancy wares to get down on the dance floor is a thing you had to leave behind in college? Think again!

Thanks to the huge success of last December’s Winter Formal Dance, us San Franciscans will get to party it up again at next Saturday’s Spring Fling Dance. And before you start having flash backs of your prom, take note that this event will be hosted by the party experts behind The Bold Italic and Dusty Hax, who’ll be bringing DJ Dick Vivian to spin the hits, along with live musical performances and — hello! — endless cocktails, and mouth-watering sandwiches from city favorite Ike’s Place.

And while the event sounds like all fun and games, the dress code is super serious, with rules like absolutely no denim allowed, and requisite ties and collars for all dudes. This shindig is expected to sell out — and fast — so grab your tickets at top speed and get ready to dress to impress.

When: Saturday, March 24, 8 p.m.
Where: The Verdi Club, 2424 Mariposa Street (between Hampshire Street and Potrero Avenue); 415-861-9199.
Price: $30; Buy tickets here.

Photo: Via Facebook/The Verdi Club

By now you know that here at R29 SF, we have some major love in our hearts for North Beach boutique ACRE/SF. And we're also crazy curious about the new locally based iPhone shopping app, Poshmark, which allows you to clean out your closet from the comfort of your...well, palm.

And now, it looks like the two of these shopping destinations (one physical, one digital) are joining forces and throwing the first-ever live "Posh Party" this Wednesday, February 29.

The theme: party frocks. How it works: Stylish ladies looking to offload some of their rarely worn garb are asked to show up to ACRE/SF in a party-themed dress that they want to toss. They'll then be coached on how to snap a pic of the item, put it up for grabs on the app, and watch as the bidding wars begin (well, ideally, anyway).

Easy-peasy! Wait, you don't have a frock you wanna give up? That's cool. Hoarders are invited, too! Just show up in your Sunday best and prepare to load up on goodies from both ACRE/SF and the for-sale dresses hanging on the stylish women around you.

When: Wednesday, February 29, 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: ACRE/SF, 301 Union Street (at Montgomery Street); 415-875-9590.

Photo: Poshmark

Calling all lovebirds! If you’re looking to get a leg up on the February 14 frenzy, here's a sweet pre-holiday shindig to add to the schedule.

Join the tintype pros at Photobooth this Thursday for a love-filled fete benefitting the Creative Arts Charter School.

You'll nab a pretty phenomenal keepsake — a tintype of you and a special someone perched upon a crescent moon — for $75. And, in addition to the one-day-only couples' tintypes, you'll enjoy the melodies of band Needles and sip stiff, custom cocktails by mixologists Claire Byrd and Haamoni Sochu. We don’t think it gets lovelier than this. So, grab your honey (or BFF) and head to Photobooth — we'll see you there!

When: Thursday, February 9, 7 to 10 p.m.
Where: Photobooth,1193 Valencia Street (between 22nd and 23rd streets); 415-824-1248.
Price: $20 donation at door; $75 for tintypes.

Photo: Via Photobooth

Thought all the holiday parties were over after this past weekend? Not so! Neat and street menswear boutique The Brooklyn Circus is throwing down this Thursday, for all you folks who are still milling about town. And, it's all for a good cause!

Show up at Barrelhouse from 9 p.m. through the wee hours in the morning and load up on good tunes by DJs King Most and D Sharp, free booze, and, for the most stylish of guests, gift bags! While the event is free, everyone must wear a Falling Whistle to enter, in support of the accessorized-based organization that supports children in the war-town Congo region. Find out how you can get involved with the party below.

When: Thursday, December 22, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: Barrelhouse, 80 Tehama Street (between Malden Aly and 2nd Street).
RSVP: rsvp@thebkcircus.com

Photo: Via BKC

Fashionable fellas, this one's for you! This Saturday, cool-kid label Riviera Club, which boasts West Coast roots and a current East Coast residency, is coming to Welcome Stranger in the form of a one-day holiday pop-up shop.

Head to the Hayes Valley men's shop — hands down, one of our faves in the city! — and scope out Riviera Club's new winter collection, meet designer Greg Ullery, sip on wine, nibble on treats, and score an exclusive Riviera Club tote when you spend $100. Plus, while you're in the area, we suggest you take a look at our genius (if we do say so ourselves) one-hood, many-stops gift guide for Hayes Valley, where we suggest a handful of stores and refueling spots (for hot cocoa, booze, and bites) all within a few paces of each other. Let the last-minute shopping begin!

When: Saturday, December 17, 1-5 p.m.
Where: Welcome Stranger, 460 Gough Street (at Hayes Street); 415-864-2079.

Photo: Via Riviera Club

Have the perfect party dress with nowhere to wear it? Consider your fashion conundrum solved. This Thursday is full of must-attend events definitely worth getting all dolled-up for. Whether you’re into beauty, fashion, blogging, or just plain looking to party (cough, free booze, cough), our roundup will have you out-and-about and having a blast in no time. Peep the full list below, pick your fave 'hood, and you're off!

Conifer Holiday Party
Is there anything better than a fashion-driven holiday party where you get to give and receive? We think not. At Cow Hollow boutique Conifer’s holiday bash, get ready to score 20% off select items with every piece of clothing you donate to Raphael House. Even sweeter than the savings? The selection of holiday treats to nibble on from Black Jet Baking Co. Yum!
When: Thursday, December 8, 5 – 8 p.m.
Where: Conifer, 2848 Webster Street (at Union Street); 415-922-1892.

North Beach Holiday Boutique Crawl
We have to admit: North Beach has been generating quite a bit of buzz, of late, with a handful of awesome new boutiques opening their doors in the area. And what better way to celebrate this new flock of shops than with a boutique shop crawl? Get in on the fun by stopping by some of the many participating stores like Al’s Attire, Annabella’s, and Park and Pond — that last cute-to-boot boutique is even hosting snacks, wine, and a DJ. North Beach, here we come!
When: Thursday, December 8, 6 – 9 p.m.
Where: On Stockton, Powell, Union, and Grant streets.

DailyBuzz & Madewell Holiday Soiree
The folks at DailyBuzz Style and Madewell have wrapped together your love for fashion, blogging, and networking, all into one event! While indulging in drinks and sweets, you’ll get to learn all about the DailyBuzz's blogger community while surrounded by all the amaze pieces at Madewell. Raffles (with gift certificate prizes!) will be included.
When: Thursday, December 8, 7 – 9 p.m.
Where: Madewell, 845 Market Street (1st floor of the Westfield Mall); 415-644-0748.

Clary Sage Organics Holiday Party
In addition to celebrating the holidays with festive cocktails, Clary Sage Organics will be welcoming the latest Renee Sheppard jewelry line and its brand-spankin’-new rewards program. Learn what the new “ECO V.I.P” program is all about, while also enjoying live music and nibbles. Um, we’re so there.
When: Thursday, December 8, at 6 p.m.
Where: Clary Sage Organics, 2241 Fillmore Street (at Clay Street); 415-673-7300.

The Factory For April Howard Collab Event
Along with upstairs neighbor Code Salon, The Factory's sewing shop-slash-design studio will be co-hosting a bash full of cocktails, snacks, and music to celebrate its collaboration with designer April Howard. An event like this will have any fashion-lover feeling like a factory girl.
When: Thursday, December 8, 6 – 9 p.m.
Where: The Factory, 370 4th Street, Suite 1 (between Harrison and Clara streets); 877-531-5225.

The Bold Italic’s Clementine Block Party
The Bold Italic has recently fallen in love with the Inner Richmond and, namely, a little strip on Clement Street, so much so that they decided to give it a new name: The Clementime. To celebrate, the street’s raddest shops (Seedstore, Parklife, etc.) will be serving up free ice cream, beer, Mexican hot chocolate and — best yet! — discounts. Find out what shops will be in on the fun here!
When: Thursday, December 8, from 6 – 8 p.m.
Where: 3rd and 7th avenues in the Inner Richmond.

Hangover For A Cause
If you’re into art, cocktails, wearing all black, and ya' know, helping out a charity, this event is tailored just for you. Hosted by the Polaris Project and Miss City of San Francisco, this soiree will help raise the awareness of sex trafficking and slavery in San Francisco, with all proceeds benefiting the cause.
When: Thursday, December 8, 10 p.m.
Where: 111 Minna Gallery, 111 Minna Street (at 22nd Street); 415-974-1719.
Price: $10 donation to the Polaris Project at the door.

Photo: Via Seedstore