We're not forsaking our favorite bars and lounges altogether, but retail parties have been appearing on our calendars with more frequency, luring us away with their promises of free booze and discounted merchandise. The North End's Shake the Tree (95 Salem Street, Boston, 617.742.0484) has been hosting monthly events for almost a year, bringing in jewelry designers and others to showcase their wares - and providing cocktails, of course. Jean Therapy (524 Comm Ave, Boston, 617.266.6555) extends its store hours to 8 p.m. on Thursdays for "Denim and Drinks"; stop by for wine and beer, plus a 10-percent discount. Stuff@night recently threw a kick-ass party at men's clothier Mr. Sid (1211 Centre Street, Newton, 617.969.4540), and Beacon Hill lingerie shop French Dressing (49 River Street, Boston, 617.723.4968) has held a few events too. Of course, when all else fails, we love a good opening bash; Twilight (12 Fleet Street, Boston, 617.523.8008), Frank Stella (220 Clarendon Street, Boston, 617.267.7505), and the Velvet Fly (424 Hanover Street, Boston, 617.557.4FLY) are a few we've attended recently.
