Red Carpet Diamonds

Certificate of Authenticity

Name: Online marketplace Mercantile.

Launch Date: February 2012.

Owners: Callie Jenschke and Nicki Clendening, who co-founded NYC interior design firm Scout three years ago.

Contents: Twenty-five pieces of one-of-a-kind furniture, antiques, and artwork culled from the duo’s dedicated global flea market shopping. They hone in on eclectic items with world-roved wear and tear (or those that look “loved,” in their words). See: a decorative African headdress crafted from colorful feathers (pictured); an antique geometric-patterned Turkish rug; an elephant-legged carved rosewood side table from India.

Expiration: When one of the items sells, the girls replace it immediately with another treasure.

Notarized Signature: Signed, sealed, delivered.

Available online at scoutdesignsmercantile.bigcartel.com, $300-$5,000 (prices vary based on selection).

Photo: Courtesy of Mercantile

“A bottle of Boone’s Farm followed by a Zima flavored with Skittles.” — Us, 1997

“Single-malt Scotch, please.” — Us, 2012

Responsible for this personal growth: Ricky Crawford, a former Glenlivet brand ambassador who throws the funniest and most informative single-malt Scotch tastings this side of Glasgow.

In today’s video, he gives us a miniature lesson on how to order — and actually enjoy — a glass of the good Scottish spirit. Do as he says and you’ll be surprised how many heads turn at the bar.

Crawford’s as charming as he is Scottish. (Yes, the man wears a kilt.) And now you can book his services for all your soirees (birthdays, bachelorette parties, etc.).

Just don’t take any cheap shots.

To book Crawford for a tasting, go to rickyshopscotch.com.

We’re used to local entrepreneur/milliner Satya Twena coming out on top.

So when we heard she was launching Pique, a monthly hosiery subscription service, we had to get to the bottom of it.

The story is tight(s): In the process of researching luxe hosiery (she planned to launch her own line), Twena unearthed some impressive high-quality collections and was compelled to share with the world.

For now, simply pick a plan (one, three, six, or twelve months) and size, then slip into two pairs of Twena-approved, work-appropriate stockings, leggings, socks, or tights. Members pay $38 per month for roughly $60 worth of goods. An online shop for a la cart orders is in the works (scheduled for March 1).

Currently, the site is in soft launch. However, if you’re one of the first 50 readers to subscribe, you’ll get a little surprise and $20 to spend at the online shop.

You’re welcome for the leg up.

Available online at discoverpique.com. For the special, subscribe to the service then email customercare@discoverpique.com and mention DailyCandy.

Photo: Satya Twena / Courtesy of Pique

When it comes to cracking codes, you’re right up there with Morse, Bond, and Einstein.

But it doesn’t take a genius to decipher simply stunning jewelry.

Case in point: Kathleen Whitaker’s understated Dot and Dash earrings collection.

A fan of freestyle mixing and matching, the ceramist/bonnet maker/jewelry designer casts fourteen-karat gold posts and sells them individually. (Two of our favorite West Coast boutiques, Mohawk General Store and Totokaelo, snapped up the line within months of spotting Whitaker at L.A.’s Echo Park Craft Fair.)

Sequin-style studs, staple bars, and multipost rods (think knuckle-duster rings for your ears) add up to sets that say “Indeed, I am a badass,” without shouting it from the rooftops.

And that we read loud and clear.

Available online at generalstore.com, gravelandgold.com, or totokaelo.com, $35-$230. For more information, go to khwjewelry.com.

Photo: Serena Mitnik-Miller / Courtesy of General Store

You get by with a little help from your friends. Unless you’re time strapped and ask them to schedule your lady doctor appointment. Then they magically lose your number.

Save yourself (and your relationships) with PA for a Day, a new NYC-based service that provides short-term, affordable personal assistants.

Shoot the crew an email with your needs (errands, cleaning, event organization), and they’ll match you with the best man/woman for the job. Each assistant is reference checked, interviewed, required to sign a confidentiality agreement, and will run you $20 per hour (two-hour minimum).

Our strapping PA, Ryan, picked up alcoholic cupcakes and Cambodian sandwiches, tracked down a very specific vintage lightbulb, bought eggs and fennel at the green market, and exchanged foreign currency as well as an H&M top.

They’ll help with anything that’s not illegal and doesn’t involve children, so get creative.

Your imaginary friends will enjoy the day off.

Available online at paforaday.com.

Photo: Jupiterimages / Getty Images

Unleash the beast.

CARRY
Anicase
What: The cheery, colorful 3-D iPhone cases ($20 each; get 15 percent off with code dailycandy15) are modeled after furry friends (pandas, tigers, leopards, owls) in danger of becoming extinct.
Why: It’s a call to action you’ll want to take — 10 percent of net profits is donated to protecting endangered species.
Where: Online at anicase.com.

FOLLOW
DailyCandy on Pinterest
What: Our just-launched pin boards cover everything from food and fashion to weddings and kids’ parties (beautifully, of course).
Why: Recipes, the latest street style, decorating ideas, and more.
Where: Online at pinterest.com/dailycandy.

ORDER
Good & Lovely
What: A personalized, thoughtful monthly subscription service ($14 and up) delivers the necessary supplies for when your inconsiderate, irritating cousin Flo comes to town.
Why: Cramp-relief heat packs, bath salts, chocolates, and Moroccan Mud Spa Bar samples.
Where: Online at goodandlovely.com.

BUY
Craft & Culture
What: Seattle-based shop showcasing a revolving cast of emerging artists with a sleek, postgrunge look that might make you break out your Nevermind CD.
Why: Elizabeth Patterson’s golden Arkansas quartz necklace ($120), Meghann Sommer’s Letaiyo necklace ($95) with recycled silver fox fur, and much more.
Where: Online at craftandculture.com.

SEND
Besotted Brand
What: Tristan B. recently launched a bespoke custom-design studio, full of clean-lined stamps, envelopes, labels, tags, and waxed linen twine bound in mini hatboxes.
Why: Say hi with the DIY stationery kit ($25), complete with “hello” calligraphy stamp and Euro-style true kraft envelopes.
Where: Online at shop.besottedbrand.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Anicase

Aye ay ay.

EAT
Empellón Cocina
What: Alex Stupak hits a high note with his taco-free Mexican follow-up. Expect traditional flavors (slow-cooked carne asada) turned on their head (served cold atop a black bean reduction with crema parfaits and cilantro).
Why: Peekytoe crab nestled on crab flan with pickled carrots, smoked cashew salsa, guaje seeds, and parsnips.
When: Daily, 6-11:30 p.m.
Where: 105 First Ave., at E. 6th St. (212-367-0999).

FOLLOW
DailyCandy on Pinterest
What: Our just-launched pin boards cover everything from food and fashion to weddings and kids’ parties (beautifully, of course).
Why: Recipes, the latest street style, decorating ideas, and more.
When: You need a little inspiration.
Where: Online at pinterest.com/dailycandy.

JOIN
Saxon + Parole Cocktail Membership
What: Lay claim to a sixteen-ounce bottle of each month’s 1890s-inspired creation ($75 per month, three-month minimum) housed in a bar-adjacent glass cabinet. Drop in, sip from your stash, and take leftovers home.
Why: Participants get an in to the family line for speedy reservations and a place on the party list.
When: Mon.-Thurs., 6-11 p.m.; Fri., 6 p.m.-midnight; Sat., 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. & 6 p.m.-midnight.; Sun., 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. & 6-11 p.m.
Where: 316 Bowery, at Bleecker St. (212-254-0350).

SHOP
Echo Park Craft Fair
What: The L.A. event sets up tables with the likes of Kathleen Whitaker earrings, Beatrice Valenzuela shoes, Dream Collective jewels, Rachel Craven linens, Heather Levine ceramic hangings, and more.
Why: Get a fix before the crew heads to Austin.
When: Today-Sun., noon-7 p.m.
Where: Beautiful Dreamers, 326 Wythe Ave., at S. 1st St., Williamsburg.

JAM
Slow Club
What: UK indie-pop folksters sing heartfelt, lively ditties from their sophomore LP, Paradise.
Why: The raucous stage version of “Where I’m Waking.”
When: Tonight. Doors, 8 p.m.; show, 9 p.m.
Where: The Bell House, 149 7th St., b/t Second & Third Aves., Gowanus (718-643-6510). Tickets online ($12) at ticketweb.com or at the door ($14).

STRETCH
Pilates ProWorks
What: The San Fran cult favorite launches its first NYC studio with 55-minute Pilates and barre-system classes ($35 each).
Why: Valentine’s chocolates are less attractive as love handles.
When: Schedule online at pilatesproworks.com.
Where: 47 W. 14th St., b/t Fifth & Sixth Aves. (212-929-6106).

Photo: Jordan Blumberg / DailyCandy

We’d be lying if we said unlimited coconut water and granola bars weren’t huge incentives for going backstage during New York Fashion Week.

But it’s also pretty freaking cool to be surrounded by beauty’s greatest talents as they do their thing.

In today’s videos, we venture into the chaos and ask the experts to give us the inside track on the looks at some of our favorite shows. We get a floral nail-art tutorial at Rachel Antonoff (above) and explanations/inspirations for the asymmetrical chignons at Suno, avant-garde braids at Creatures of the Wind, and loose ponytails at Tracy Reese. 

As always, some are more wearable than others.

But at least they won’t take up any room in your purse.

Want to keep watching? Check out our backstage beauty videos for the spring/summer 2012 shows at Timo Weiland, Erin Fetherston, and Rebecca Minkoff. And by all means, read up on current Fashion Week shows on our Tumblr.

Get the power of the purse.

What: RomyGold
Why: Take 65-75 percent off embellished leather bags and clutches, including satchels ($200, reg. $575) and fringed totes ($240, reg. $685).
When: Today, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 261 W. 36th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 2nd flr.

What: Nanette Lepore
Why: Whimsical tops for $50, skirts at $65, dresses for $80, outerwear at $109-$130, and shoes starting at $20.
When: Today, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 261 W. 36th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 2nd flr.

What: Scoop NYC
Why: Up to 90 percent off goods from DVF, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Shipley & Halmos, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and more.
When: Today-Sat. & Mon., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 430 W. 14th St., at Washington St.

What: Morgenthal Frederics
Why: Score big on retro sunglasses ($150, reg. $595) and classic frames ($100, reg. $325).
When: Today-Feb. 26. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m.
Where: 399 W. Broadway, at Spring St.

What: Edition01
Why: Dreamy dresses, leather pants, and furs by Proenza Schouler, Rag & Bone, Vera Wang, Yigal Azrouel, Donna Karan, Cushnie et Ochs, and Doo.Ri at up to 70 percent off.
When: Thurs., 5-8 p.m.
Where: 1133 Broadway, at W. 26th St., ste. 1025.

What: Honey in the Rough
Why: Up to 70 percent off new- and past-season clothes and accessories by Surface to Air, Tsumori Chisato, Rodebjer, Mociun, Samantha Pleet, Whit, Shabd, Thread Social, and more.
When: Thurs.-Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., noon-7 p.m.
Where: 161 Rivington St., b/t Suffolk & Clinton Sts.

What: Jumelle
Why: Up to 80 percent off Alexander Wang, Isabel Marant, Rachel Comey, Cacharel, Dieppa Restrepo, A Détacher, Correll Correll, and Mayle. Don’t skip the extra-special $25 and $50 bins.
When: Thurs.-Mon., 11:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
Where: 148 Bedford Ave., b/t N. 8th & 9th Sts., Williamsburg.

What: Khirma Eliazov
Why: Exotic clutches ($595, reg. $1,295), canvas and python totes ($395, reg. $725), casual hobos ($450, reg. $895), and more at up to 70 percent off.
When: Sat. & Sun., noon-6 p.m.
Where: 102 Charles St., b/t Bleecker & Hudson Sts.

What: Court Jeans
Why: High-waisted skinny and relaxed-fit jeans for $55 and shorts for $20. All other fall styles are less than $85.
When: Feb. 23-26. Thurs.-Sun., noon-8 p.m.
Where: 178 Mulberry St., b/t Broome & Kenmare Sts.

What: Showroom Seven
Why: Up to 60 percent off wholesale on Erickson Beamon, Issa London, Charlotte Ronson, Catherine Deane, Odd Molly, and TwentyCluny, plus free cocktails each night from 5 to close.
When: Feb. 27-Mar. 16. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 263 Eleventh Ave., b/t 27th & 28th Sts., 3rd flr.

Photo: Courtesy of RomyGold

We love seeing ponytails on the catwalk (it gives our go-to look sartorial credibility). In this case, Tresemmé stylist Jeanie Syfu kicks the simple style up a few notches by leaving front sections out and pinning them over the rubber band. Watch this video to learn how she does it. 

Want more? Check out our backstage videos at Rachel Antonoff, Suno, and Creatures of the Wind. 

You know when you pull your hair back to wash your face and somehow it looks so good you wish you were going out? Okay, so maybe that’s happened only once. But it’s the same accidental elegance Kérastase’s Odile Gilbert channeled for Suno last Friday night. In this video, she discusses the hairstyle and her inspiration.

Want to keep watching? Check out our backstage videos at Rachel Antonoff, Tracy Reese, and Creatures of the Wind.

If you can whip up a covetable do using butterfly clips, matted braids, and glitter, then you must be a miracle worker. Or you’re Kérastase stylist Odile Gilbert, who did exactly that at Creatures of the Wind last Thursday. In this video, Gilbert (the master behind the hair for Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette) explains her look.

Want more? Check out our backstage videos at Rachel Antonoff, Tracy Reese, and Suno.

The latest unofficial census data reveal novelist-slash-baristas, Park Slope Food Coopers, and lip balm-brewing yoga teachers make up 95 percent of Brooklyn’s population.

But you know better: The borough is for lovers, like Dara Furlow.

Her new company, With Love, from Brooklyn, is a one-stop online shop for care packages filled with artisanal foodstuffs and local sweets. Furlow roots out the best producers, has a tasting panel approve the goods, groups them by theme (salty sweet, bacon, spiced, and breakfast), and ships them to your (or a friend/editor’s) doorstep.

Technically, you could order Whimsy & Spice cookies, Morris Kitchen syrups, Anarchy in a Jar marmalade, Saucy by Nature condiments, and Nunu caramels separately. But we did the math; With Love, from Brooklyn is a serious bargain. Plus, your sampler comes tied with a nice ribbon.

Packages and selections will rotate as Furlow finds new producers.

Which shouldn’t be tough (population considered).

Available online at withlovefrombrooklyn.com, $43-$85.

Photo: Courtesy of With Love, from Brooklyn

Dear Cupid,

My only complaint about my beau is that he hogs the grub when we go splitsville. How can I make sure I get my fair share of mac ’n’ cheese?

Yours,
Starving in SF

’Sup Starving,

The answer is simple: Become a heartbreaker with Heart Parts eating utensils.

The florescent, palm-size tools are meant to be cracked in half, then used to stab, scoop, or even cut your nosh of choice. Product designer Fatima Fazal created them to bring the love back to sharing a meal.

Heart Parts come in boxes of ten, so they’re great for parties. Because they’re dishwasher safe, made with 66 percent less plastic than similar wares, and are completely biodegradable, you can enjoy your supper without guilt.

Even if you’re fed up with him, at least you’ll be properly fed.

Xo,
The Guy with the Arrow

Available online at iheart-this.com, $10.

Photo: Courtesy of Heart Parts

We’d wager any former Lenny Kravitz-owned club space could be filled only with shag carpet, suspicious residue, and cobwebs spun from dead secrets.

But then we’d be out all the funds we hope to drop at the pristine Dagny + Barstow boutique, now open on the Bowery after its stint as a Meatpacking pop-up.

On tap from former publicist Emily Titelman and designer Meredith Blank: Kaelen electric green maxi dresses, printed trousers from Brit brand Swash, ghostly blazers by French house Devastee, and perforated leather tees and leggings by Parisian standout Stouls.

There’s also a small vintage selection (curated by Reason), structured Sophie Hulme purses, Orly Genger jewelry, headgear from local milliner/rock star Satya Twena, and rough-cut Vanessa Dee emerald bracelets (a steal at $400).

Cheeky extras like croc-embossed condom boxes, cartoon bow ties, cacti, and a mirror-backed bar vibe with the neighborhood.

We bet you’ll dig it.

Dagny + Barstow, 264 Bowery, between Houston and Prince Streets (212-675-2346 or dagnyandbarstow.com).

Photo: Jordan Blumberg / DailyCandy