No More Tank Tops!

First things first: I refuse to get involved in the drama of a situation which I am not directly a part of or cannot single-handedly solve within a reasonable period of time.

That said: bars, clubs and lounges, play nice or your “customer” may start to feel uncomfortable. Just saying.

OK, to the point now. I am happy to announce that tank top season is over. For all of you who love them: knock it off. That time has passed and the rest of the world can live without being subjected to open armpits, budging necklines and people who should just never wear a tank top in the first place. This is Salt Lake City, not the Jersey Shore.

That said, this means fall (and soon winter) is around the corner. So grab your layers because patios will be chilled, the glasses cooled and, of course, the air will be slightly below comfortable. Of course, I understand that this is Utah and guessing the weather is like throwing darts at a board, but still, one can hope.

Still, I see a few spots becoming “hot spots” even in the cold weather.

Namely, JAM. This well-known and well-loved place may not have the heated rock seat bench anymore, but needless to say they understand how to market in a cold climate (one has to love the many heaters).

Also, Pure. On a Friday night, who doesn’t want to park close to an arena filled with warm bodies drinking and having a good time? I think no more explanation is needed.

There’s also Babylon. Same-same-but-different to the reasoning above.

So, where else is there to go? As I’ve mentioned, Studio 27. It is having a slow start, but it’s been steadily rising in popularity nonetheless. Additionally there is The Trapp which has been alive and well for years, serving great drinks in big jars — it reminds me of a cabin filled with booze and games (what could be better than that on a cold evening?).

Moving on, there is Club Try-Angles with a pool table and my personal favorite thing: text messages that you can send to the TV for everyone to see (childish, yet completely satisfying).

Edge and Fusion are where to go on a night where you find yourself wanting the environment of an old, classic New York City gay bar with lasers and smoke — and to me, that’s a lot better than snow and cold.

Ultimately, I feel as winter comes closer and the layers get thicker, the place to be will be anywhere that has the closest parking and best atmosphere. Bar hopping doesn’t become an issue as most people park and stay because wiping snow off the car just isn’t that appealing more than twice a night.

Actually, I would bet that the first club to have covered parking would be the most popular during the cold months strictly because no one (gay, lesbian, bisexual or straight) likes cleaning off a snow-covered automobile.

So bid farewell to the skimpy clothing. Let’s see the style the Salt Lake City gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community can bring to the table. This winter I challenge you all to be more sophisticated than trendy. More classy than sassy. Refine yourselves in the fact you can outwardly project the great character within, rather than defining yourself through the façade of “individual expression.” You are all beautiful, so show it with your style, not your skin this winter.

See you this weekend.