Tired of taking 30 minutes to apply to one job? Sick of spending 30 minutes each to apply for 50 jobs with ridiculous qualification expectations with the hope that some how your 6 months of interning will somehow equal their 7+ year requirements? At your wits end with spending 30 minutes [...]]]>

Tired of taking 30 minutes to apply to one job? Sick of spending 30 minutes each to apply for 50 jobs with ridiculous qualification expectations with the hope that some how your 6 months of interning will somehow equal their 7+ year requirements? At your wits end with spending 30 minutes each to apply for those 50 jobs and maybe hearing back from one?

It’s time to ditch that 8×10 U.S. Letter Resume. Joe Budzienski is about to change your world.

That’s because Budzienski, currently based out of Woburn, has managed to develop a revolutionary way to connect companies and young job seekers with ease and transparency all the while celebrating the uniqueness of each individual. How is he doing it? Through Twitter.

Gozaik, a name play off of “mosaic,” is a desktop application that provides individual job seekers an easy way to find jobs, an accessible database of young job seekers for headhunters, and a method to unify how companies post job listings. With nearly 5 million unemployed recent grads, Budzienski—a firm believer in hiring young talent—wanted to create a centralized place where candidates and companies are more transparent about every step of the hiring process. Ever wanted to know if a company has even looked at your resume? Gozaik will tell you AND let you know if they have passed along your resume to colleagues. Ever wanted to know if a candidate is really worth looking at? Gozaik provides a search option that allows companies to geo-target the top candidates in a city or field and what other companies are vying for their candidacy.

How does Twitter come into play? Companies and candidates use their Twitter accounts to tweet out job postings and resumes. The only difference is, instead of tweeting out to just your 300 followers, you have access to 1 to 10 million people on Gozaik that can see your resume and listing (depending on your privacy settings, of course).  Not too shabby, right?

But Budzienski didn’t always see social media as respectable resource for business.

As a 10-year veteran of the IT consulting industry, he believed social networks were no competition for tradition modes of communication to conduct successful business. “I’m the old school sales guy… pick up the phone… meet face to face.”

That was until he hired Chelsea, his first social media wiz, “She changed my world. I started to see the infinite possibilities with social media”

While LinkedIn has become known the professional based social network, Budzienski, who has used it from the start, worries that it has become a forum where “everyone’s selling and no bodies buying.” People are networking but not with the right people to land them a job. That’s where Gozaik wants to make the difference—to drive home results especially for recent grads who’s resumes aren’t able to convey their true worth.

Job seekers are able to design their layout and feature cover videos to really add a human connection that transcends just a profile picture. Down the road, Gozaik also plans to hire brand managers to assist students in shaping their online presence to ensure nothing stands in the way of their career success after graduation— especially these days when the entire college experience is lived out through social media every day. They are even developing a system that will lock personal Facebook pages from potential employers and redirect them to the candidate’s Gozaik page. We could all use that, right?

Perfecting a craft is a life’s work…especially when it has to be delicious.

The time has come that New Englanders are embracing (and craving for) the local underdog whose life’s work is providing the public with a game-changing palette necessity… craft beer.

Trade, the innovative restaurant co-owned by Rialto’s Jody Adams, has [...]]]>

Perfecting a craft is a life’s work…especially when it has to be delicious.

The time has come that New Englanders are embracing (and craving for) the local underdog whose life’s work is providing the public with a game-changing palette necessity… craft beer.

Trade, the innovative restaurant co-owned by Rialto’s Jody Adams, has taken the opportunity to celebrate Boston’s latest revolution in what Bostonians are drinking and who’s creating it by founding Trade Craft— a beverage appreciation forum of sorts to bring enthusiasts and creators together at the same table for good conversation and great tastes.

The restaurant, located on Atlantic Avenue in Boston, invites one local brewer or distiller per month to share their knowledge and experiences with craft lovers. While they educate guests on their processes and inspirations, Trade Executive Chef Andrew Hebert whips up inventive (and scrumptious!) hors d’oeuvres to, even further, enhance the tasting experience.

Fried oyster and buckwheat waffles with spicy maple cream, anyone?

Double win for taste buds!

This month, Trade called upon Pretty Things Beer and Ale Project’s very own Martha and Dann Paquette to divulge in their passion for crafting craft brews. But don’t let that sweet name fool you. The couple knows their beer— already gaining a notable name for themselves among the local bar and restaurant scene with a re-imagined saison, Jack D’or.

What makes the Paquette’s exceptionally interesting and a true testament to the city’s erupting local craft beer appreciation culture—apart from their fantastic beer—is what happens before their beer even hits the bar tap.

The four-member Pretty Things team works out of a small office in Somerville with not quite enough room brew beer. That’s why several times a week, Martha and Dann pack up the car and road trip down to Westport, where they use the brewery of an old friend settled on a sprawling 150-acre farm. When the weather accommodates, the duo camps over night right there on the property— which is quite convenient for two people who love their work. “It’s perfect because if I can’t sleep in the middle of the night, I just get up and start brewing,” Dann explains.

When you sit down to enjoy a Pretty Things beer, you can guarantee it came straight from Dann and Martha’s hands working the brewery. And at Trade Craft, it’s equivalent to having a friend who loves to bake, bake you a homemade pie and is eager to see how you like it right then and there— except swap your friend for two expert brewers and the pie for amazing beer inspired by timeless European brewing traditions paired with top notch cuisine.

The two-hour taste testing session began with an instant hit— a goblet of Jack D’or, and Trade’s burrata on crostini with blood orange jam and olive served by Restaurant Manager Jon Mendez. No one said no to seconds…and thirds… and we’ll it really could have kept going if there wasn’t more dishes to try!

Round two brought an Easter beer—how timely!— called Baby Tree. The Belgian abbey quadruple style stands as a perfect transitional beverage from heavy winter tastes to light spring flavors. Trade stepped in to paired it with savory braised pork and an eclectic mix of Asian vegetables, chili and ginger.

Last but certainly not least, the self-proclaimed “fun-est” beer they make, Fluffy White Rabbits, was a fitting cap off for the evening with its slightly sweet and citrus-y character. The dish accompanying it was a surprisingly yummy fried oyster and buckwheat waffles topped with spicy maple cream.

Learn more about Pretty Things and where you can find it here.

Want to attend the next Trade Craft or taste these dishes yourself with a Pretty Things beer at the restaurant? Visit Trade’s website here.

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day, Boston!

“I’m happy being anonymous.”

Those were the words told to us by a man whose designs have been worn for decades by pop culture’s greats, such as, Audrey Hepburn, Julie Andrews, Joan Kennedy, Nancy Reagan, Joan Collins, Ann Romney… just to name a few.

The late Alfred Fiandaca became a preferred fashion designer [...]]]>

“I’m happy being anonymous.”

Those were the words told to us by a man whose designs have been worn for decades by pop culture’s greats, such as, Audrey Hepburn, Julie Andrews, Joan Kennedy, Nancy Reagan, Joan Collins, Ann Romney… just to name a few.

The late Alfred Fiandaca became a preferred fashion designer to some of the most affluent women in politics and entertainment in the last half century and whose stylings have become as timeless and beloved as the women who wear them. Before he passed on February 9th in his Palm Beach home at age 72, the East Boston native sat down with us to share his thoughts on his lifetime of achievements. Though, don’t expect any basking in the glory of being a favorite of powerful and beautiful women. Fiandaca was in love with the fashion…not fame.

“I’ve only worked maybe 14 days in my life. Because everyday is a joy. I don’t work. I just do what I do and have a good time doing it,” said Fiandaca.

As the son of an Italian tailor and cabaret costume seamstress, a passion for garments was ingrained in his DNA. When he was just boy, he was already sewing fabrics and cutting patterns. Fiandaca studied design at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design  and Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. By 1960, Fiandaca founded his women’s fashion line.

Although his couture houses were in Palm Beach and New York at the time of his death, Fiandaca always maintained a Boston connection. For over 40 years, he kept a studio on Newbury Street. In 2009, it moved to Albany Street but at least one politician’s wife managed to always find it.

As a Massachusetts’ governor’s wife, Ann Romney discovered Fiandaca during her time in the state capital and quickly joined the likes of other political spouses, such as, Lady Bird Johnson and Nancy Reagan who fell in love with the designer’s classic aesthetic that transcended current fads.  She frequently shopped the racks of his boutique but Fiandaca insisted on allowing his staff to custom tailor her outfits as her husband’s political campaign continued to grow.

For decades, he lived and worked under the radar from mainstream attention—something he enjoyed. However, during the 2012 presidential election, Ann Romney’s frequent public appearances put her fashion choices under the national fashion microscope.  As the press pushed for the source of the garments, Fiandaca’s name finally hit the household media nearly overnight.

After hearing news of his passing last month, Ann took to Twitter to publically honor him, “Heartbroken over the loss of my dear friend Alfred Fiandaca. My thoughts and prayers go out to his loving family and dedicated staff.”

Check out our interview with Alfred Fiandaca as he discusses his inspiration, childhood, and relationship with Ann Romney.

Looks like a city but it’s a flame!

What happens when you mix former WFNX employees and City Hall Plaza with some Fun.?

The answer: The first ever Boston Calling Music Festival.

Eighteen bands, including The Shins, Ra Ra Riot, Of Monsters And Men and Bad Rabbits (who performed at our launch party in [...]]]>

What happens when you mix former WFNX employees and City Hall Plaza with some Fun.?

The answer: The first ever Boston Calling Music Festival.

Eighteen bands, including The Shins, Ra Ra Riot, Of Monsters And Men and Bad Rabbits (who performed at our launch party in October!) will be showcased on multiple stages on City Hall Plaza in the two day event kicking of May 25^th,  bringing the top names in alternative and indie rock to nearly 20,000 fans in Boston.

Here’s the official line up:

SATURDAY

Fun.

The Shins

Marina and the Diamonds

Matt and Kim

Portugal. The Man

Cults

MS MR

St. Lucia

Bad Rabbits

SUNDAY

The Nation

Of Monsters and Men

Young The Giant

Andrew Bird

Dirty Projectors

Ra Ra Riot

The Walkmen

Youth Lagoon

Caspian

Partnered with The Bowery Presents, The Liberty Hotel, Boston Children’s Hospital, Lift and Beer Summit Boston, the festival was created and funded by Crash Line Productions, the brainchild of former WFNX colleagues Brian Appel and Mike Snow.

Tickets go on sale this Friday at 10 a.m. and are are $75 for one day and $130 for two days. All kids under 10 are free.

Don’t forget to check out our interview with Boston Calling headliner and Grammy-winning Fun. !

Jessica Chastain

Gorgeous. Gorgeous. Gorgeous. Jess, over here, nailed it. Dressed in an Armani Privé gown, Christian Louboutin shoes and jewelry by Harry Winston, this Jessica Rabbit look-a-like is everything Hollywood glamour is about– grace and poise with flair. Now, if this was just a dress contest, it would probably [...]]]> BUY

Jessica Chastain

Gorgeous. Gorgeous. Gorgeous. Jess, over here, nailed it. Dressed in an Armani Privé gown, Christian Louboutin shoes and jewelry by Harry Winston, this Jessica Rabbit look-a-like is everything Hollywood glamour is about– grace and poise with flair. Now, if this was just a dress contest, it would probably land her on the borrow list but– my oh my– is that style execution or what, my friends?!

Naomi Watts

Someone call Richard Branson and get me on his first flight to outer space because this look is out-of-this-world fabulous. This is the real life Jetson’s—if the Jetson’s were the most beautiful and fiercely haute couture family in space. This Armani Privé dress is everything right with fashion— elegant, edgy, innovative and, most importantly, shiny. I’m not waiting light years for this–Put it in my closet now.

BORROW

Amanda Seyfried

I wanted so badly to put Amanda’s custom Alexander McQueen dress on my to-buy list but there is something missing to make this look really dazzle. The silhouette absolutely fits her like a glove and that detail dashingly unique but it’s not a hit out of the park. Perhaps a dramatic lip or accentuating bracelet would help the cause? I’d take this look for a spin one night.

Kerry Washington

Adorable. I want to sip a fruity beverage in a tropical cute seaside town when I look at this Mui Mui dress and Prada clutch. There is nothing negative to really say about this look. It’s fun, fresh and different. But that’s why it’s just on the Borrow list. It’s good but it doesn’t ignite my red carpet fashion fire.

BURN

Anne Hathaway

Ever since Princess Diaries, I can’t put my finger on my opinion of the Les Mis star and her style sense. I do have to say she deserves about 4 more Oscars after her rendition of “I Dreamed A Dream.” Tear city! However, this is not the Academy. This is BUY, BORROW, BURN. She should’ve left this Prada dress in the 90’s with Gweneth Paltrow’s pink princess fairy Oscars dress.  And that necklace with that neckline??? Ugh. No words.

Halle Berry

Versace had this Bond Babe’s back… or so she thought. At first glance, I wanted to envision this as a throwback to vintage Hollywood art deco. But the more I looked at it, all this dress screams is 80’s disco. I changed to a channel that was playing the commercials just so I wouldn’t have to keep looking at this dress.

***BONUS

Kristen Stewart

Naeem Khan’s latest runway collection shown in at New York Fashion Week blew me away. This dress even intrigues me. However, I am so overwhelming sad to find Kristen Stewart’s underwhelming red carpet presentation in this potentially fantastic frock. Whether it’s the styling or her attitude bringing it down, this dress will easily and understandably be over looked. A lesson in not letting the clothes wear you! BURN it!

What do you think of this year’s Oscars looks?

On January 25th we gave styleboston readers to chance to win an ultimate makeover for their skin at Forever Young Laser & Skin Center of Wellesley, MA.  Contestants had to submit in 500 words or less why they, or someone they knew, would [...]]]> Congratulations to Liza Izzo, Winner of the Stay Forever Young Contest!

It’s time to talk Boston innovation. Get ready to find the next big thing right here on the styleboston blog.

You’ve heard his song “Yeah, Yeah, Yeah,” quite possibly, two hundred times in the past few months as Apple hounded holiday shoppers to buy iPod mini’s, bouncing in every which direction across television screens.

But Willy Moon is not just your average one-commercial hit artist.

The 23-year old New Zealand native is one [...]]]>

You’ve heard his song “Yeah, Yeah, Yeah,” quite possibly, two hundred times in the past few months as Apple hounded holiday shoppers to buy iPod mini’s, bouncing in every which direction across television screens.

But Willy Moon is not just your average one-commercial hit artist.

The 23-year old New Zealand native is one of the most anticipated artists for 2013 landing on countless to-be-watched lists including Vogue’s 2013 Hot List. His cool, demure look infiltrates his fashion and demeanor as if he has just stepped out of a 1960’s Parisian Nouvelle Vauge film— have you seen that pout???

But he is no retro crooner.

Moon’s sound is at the cutting edge of sound making. It’s not new for artists to mix genres to produce new music experiences but there is no blending on these tracks. Moon manages to arrange a handful of genres into battle formation and yell “fire in the hole!” He plucks elements from hip-hop, rock n’ roll, contemporary, electronic dance and more and smashes them together to create shockingly enjoyable and intriguing music.

Moon attributes his lack of musical boundaries to his challenging childhood growing up without parents after his mother passed away from cancer and his father took off to find work in Saudi Arabia, leaving the 12-year old and his 16-year old sister to fend for themselves. Soon after, the gifted student resented authority and eventually sought an escape through music in London.

He hit the scene with an online release of “I want to be your man” in 2011 with overwhelming reception, particularly for a virtually unknown name. Now, his full-length album “Here’s Willy Moon” has entered the arena— well, as full-length as he can be. The 12-track album is only 29 minutes long with just one song lasting more than 3 minutes. But that’s not because Moon’s creativity hinders. Short songs are a conscientious decision to have each track standout as a bang of energy without allotting time for boredom.

Sampling from Kanye West’s Jesus Walk, “Railroad Track” captivates listeners into 1930’s chain gang stomp.

“She Loves Me” borrows from early Beatles pop and injects heavy electric guitar to get a dancy vibe.

Ignorance is bliss?

Opposites attract and, this year, hair-ology of the fashion world has pinned together polarized looks that have resulted in a passionate tango featuring low and sleek and messy and free. Said looks have intertwined through a few generations of hair styling but now, they’re hitting center stage (and runways) as a major role [...]]]>

Opposites attract and, this year, hair-ology of the fashion world has pinned together polarized looks that have resulted in a passionate tango featuring low and sleek and messy and free. Said looks have intertwined through a few generations of hair styling but now, they’re hitting center stage (and runways) as a major role in fashion drama. Shall we dance?

On one side, we have a sleek and sophisticated crafted look fit for the catwalk or sidewalk woman who means business. Seen in runway shows such as Erdem, Givenchy and Gucci, the stealthy style has been seen executed primarily with slick back hair parted down the center and occasionally a dramatic side part. Most finish off with a pin and straight pony gathered at the neckline while some are tied neatly into a bun propped in the same location. Feeling lucky (and have an endless supply of gel and hairspray)? Some designers have ditched elastics all together and form the hair to a straight flow of hair down the back. Sounds powerful. 

The other player in the game tango of the tresses? The rock star free spirit who is making the hairbrush industry file for bankruptcy. Featured in runway shows such as Marni, Stella McCartney and The Row, bed head and beach bum fly-aways are welcomed, and stubborn strands are set loose. Whether worn in a flowing down like in this Dries Van Noten look or tossed up into a messy bun, perfection is not invited. 

What’s side of the love affair are you on?