ReadysetDC Fashion:District

ReadysetDC // fashion:district from ReadysetDC on Vimeo.

A Thaw for One and All.

You would have been crazy to not have been outdoors this past weekend. DC was alive (and crowded!) Made me want to go for a ride on my dream bike.

Aside from the fact that this ludicrous woman is wearing heels on a bicycle, I love this image of the Velorbis Classic Victoria.

Worn Magazine

Last week, I finished up the last feature in the "fashion:district" series. The interview was with Nicole Aguirre, editor of DC's newest (and only, might I add) purest fashion and art magazine, Worn. Worn is set to debut in early April, check out Worn's website and blog for more information. Trust me, you'll want to take note.

Check out my interview with the lovely Nicole at ReadysetDC.

Showtime:"fashion:district"

The majority of my time as of late has been dedicated to one thing and one thing only; the announcement of "Fashion:District" the show, over at my other blog ReadysetDC.

The show will include all local designers, boutique owners and artists, including; Redeem, Treasury, Commonwealth, a special look at Worn Magazine, Durkl and the debut of men's accessories line Derringer Friday.

I hope to see you all out at View 14 on April 7th. Check back for more information!

Five Bites A Night

I absolutely adore Washington food writer Amanda McClements, of the blog Metrocurean.
Her popular "Five Bites" quizzes DC chefs about their favorites meals aside from their own cooking. "Five Bites" has grown into a reader favorite, and now Amanda posts her loyal fans' "Five Bites."

I was inspired by the concept, but like a mad scientist, wanted to take it further.
I wanted to see if it was possible to do "Five Bites"...in one night.

The concept--while ambitious and well planned--was a bit of a mixed bag.

First, allow me to provide for you my list of five:

1. Grilled Pork with noodles from Vietnam Georgetown

2. Fried Catfish and French Fries from Blue Ridge in Glover Park

3. Sauteed Wild Mushrooms from Cork

4. Hunkar Begendi (Turkish braised lamb shank and eggplant puree) from Zaytinya

5. Frozen Custard from The Dairy Godmother in Del Ray

First, you must have a car to achieve your goals of reaching each restaurant. Second, while timing is key, certain items simply cannot retain their greatness after sitting in a car for thirty minutes. Despite these issues (oh, and Cork doesn't do carryout--quite a disappointment) the evening was still fun. Next time though, I think it best not to overwhelm the mind.

New York, New York: Fall Fashion Week 2010

3.1 Phillip Lim

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz New York Fall Fashion week in appropriate fashion has passed in the blink of an eye. Whilst we here in Washington, DC attempted (not so successfully) to dig ourselves out of our respective snow dens, New York was a-frenzy over fall fashion; snow or no snow. Fall fashions aways bring out a more subtle show, which was even more subdued with the news of fashion Goliath, Alexander McQueen's death. The show was bitter sweet, as it was the last showing at the iconic Bryant Park tents. This fall, New York Fashion Week will move to Lincoln Center. The change of venue will be a major shift, as the tents have become a beacon, synonymous with American fashion.

Classic Clean at The Row

All in all, the collections shown were poignantly spare and clean, aiming for modesty, rather than a spectacle.

Some of the most notable themes for the ladies were over-sized knitwear from designers like Yigal Azrouel, very heavy layering, clean American sportswear, turtlenecks, velvet thanks to Altuzarra, Charlotte Ronson and Alexander Wang (among many others) dropped hemlines, crop tops and masterful 70's disco thanks to Phillip Lim. Styles of the late 80's/early 90's were prevalent, including the velvet and velour. Thigh-high socks and legwarmers jumped straight off the runways of Alexander Wang, Rag & Bone and Michael Kors and onto every "must have" list for fall. If you are a fan of pants, then this fall is right up your alley. Designers have begun to shy away from the skinny leg, which has long reigned as the staple women pant. This fall many opted for a roomier, beautiful trouser.

Top: Crop Top Turtleneck at Alexander Wang
Center: 70's disco at 3.1 Phillip Lim

Bottom: Velvet and Leg Warmers at Alexander Wang

Speaking of pants, graffiti pants from Proenza Schouler (above) added a bit of shock and awe.

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If this spring was tailor made for the dapper gentlemen, then this fall is perfect for the rugged outdoors-man. Doc Marten influenced boots flooded the runways. There appeared to be a few exceptions, most notably Calvin Klein; leave it Francisco Costa's stark minimalism to present the trench coat clad gentleman of the future.

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The trickle down effect from New York is undeniable. One can only guess as to which emerging trends will make it into DC. However, seeing as many of the fall 2010 looks are more "user friendly" than normal, perhaps we shall see Washingtonians be a bit bolder this fall?

[Note: All images property of Style.com]

New York Fashion Week: A Fresh Fall

Yigal Azrouel (Images: Style and Elle)

A good chunk of New York Fall 2010 Fashion Week has come and gone. Thus far, it appears fall 2010 will be a juxtaposition between menswear and femininity. There is heavy deconstruction and a clean theme running throughout.

Striping, menswear (we've seen a graduation from boyfriend looks to a more tailored and mature look) heavy outerwear, mohair, tweed, wool, florals, military pants, a dropped hemline, suiting, a plethora of pants. Some current favorites seem to have snuck their way into this coming fall such as plaids, military and of course, florals. It's hard to judge fall 2010 yet as we have yet to see collections from some of the heavyweights; Alexander Wang, Calvin Klein, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Ohne Titel, Michael Kors, Narciso Rodriguez, Joseph Altuzarra and Prabal Gurung (my spring 2010 darling).

Since this is DC after all, I will go a little political in my voting...
Yays: Yigal Azrouel

Preen
Jenni Kayne
Rag and Bone

Nays: Jason Wu (although it pains me)

Preen (Images: Style)

Jenni Kayne (Images: Style)

Rag & Bone (Images: Style)

A Very Vintage Appeal

Why don't people travel in style anymore?

I am neither speaking of etiquette or modes of transportation. I'm talking about luggage.

Recently waiting for my luggage at baggage claim, it hit me. I was aghast when I realized I was drowning in a sea of black luggage. And, that I was just as guilty as the next person.

Black, after black, after black (and the occasional awkward floral print.)

Shame on me. Shame.

Luggage says more about a person than we care to acknowledge. Luggage encapsulates what is most dear to all of us. And I for one do not wish to receive the label: efficient yet boring.

So, I raise a call to bring back the art of luggage. You say: why care? I say: why not care?

One of my favorite websites for all things vintage, Etsy, has some wonderful options, such as this gem.

Top Image: Flickr

ReadysetListen!

Congratulations to the gentlemen of Tennis System on the release of thier first full length album!

Cerulean Crescendo

Excuse me while I wax poetic about Ashley Olsen--not an uncommon occurance.

Ashley looks divine in Erdem at the Golden Globes after party.

I love the bold color matched with the crescendo of texture here.

Equestrian District?

I have been on a, shall we say, extended hiatus. However, I am returning just in time for fashion week.

Whilst the main attraction in the states is still a few weeks away, one cannot forget about Rio, and the men's shows in Paris.

The resurgance of the dapper gentleman has transcended from the runway to the everyday in the past year, credit what you will (some say Mad Men, I say common sense.)

I was simply tickled to see Louis Vuitton's Paul Helbers send his men out in an elegant staple, now a modern friend; the riding boot.

I now challenge the gentlemen of Washington to be so bold.

Look Smart to Be Smart

Despite the fact that I do not need glasses, I have been mulling over the idea of purchasing frames for the sheer fun of it.

Photo: Jak and Jill

Warrior Woman Fighting Reality.

The idea of an urban warrior woman is not new in the least, however it is certainly fitting in such times. Donning items to guard yourself against the elements that you can prepare for and those you cannot seems like a small piece of comfort- hence the prevelance of boots, studs, buckles and leather this winter.

Love the Belle by Sigerson Morrison boot.

Don't Miss! "For the Love of DC"

It's finally here! The ReadysetDC launch party. We've been preparing for weeks, and the day is nearly here. Can hardly contain my excitement; see you there!

Represent This City

All too often, DC themed t-shirts spell disaster; I think we've all seen one too many tie-dye "I love DC" shirts..

Therefore, I was pleasantly surprised to find One vs. Many's great "DC Hands" tee on Rachel Cothran's Project Beltway. The "DC Hands" are sketched out by DC artist, Greg Halayko. You can purchase your own tee to represent DC today. I know I would really enjoy this little gem wrapped up in my stocking this Christmas.

Invoking the Tweed

The stage was set, bikes poised and ready, the newsboy caps were plentiful and tweed was shown some new found love, from perhaps unexpected sources.
DC's first Tweed Ride, organized by Dandies and Quaintrelles, was an enormous success, drawing out around 300 riders for a leisurely ride around town- in tweed of course.

The image was quite surreal, especially for Washington; a city known for serious faces, not elaborate events. Washington residents were caught off guard, as bikers filled the aggressive city streets.

The event brought out one of the most eclectic groups of people I have witnessed at one event in this fair city; a mix of bike enthusiast, history fanatics, nostalgic and stylish city dwellers and your local event goers. This group all convened at the U Street epi-center for youth and the culture hungry, Marvin. The Tweed Ride brought all of these people, perhaps not the most conservative of sorts, together for an ode to the past and forecast for the future.

Tweed is no longer an old and tired standard. Now this simple fabric represents a resurgence of the classics; an intentional rebuking of today's style. Anything emphasizing classic style is A-okay in my book.

If you missed this inaugural event, don't fret; the second Tweed Ride will take place in April 2010.

Check out this video, an appropriate silent film of the event by Vincent.

Also, check out ReadySetDC's great photos of the event. (shameless friend plug)

A Made Match

Last weekend, I had the extreme pleasure of meeting the lovely lady behind The President Wears Prada. I enjoyed learning of the recent collaboration between, TPWP, the District Cutand my favorite local boutique, Treasury. 

Every Wednesday the trio will showcase their favorite looks from the store. Above is a sample.

Look out for more from this great team. 

Burberry: Art of the Trench

I am smitten with the Burberry: Art of the Trench project. Utilizing photographer extraordinare, Scott Schuman (aka the Sartorialist) to shoot the first 100 images for the campaign highlighting the beauty of the trench coat.

The site, a part of Burberry's rebranding efforts, combines the beauty of the classic trench with a fresh use of street style. The site is quite a success in my opinion, an interactive journey documenting the trench in real life.

Attention Ladies & Gents

You are cordially invited to the First Semi-Annual Washington Tweed Ride.

The event-a brainchild of Eric Brewer-is being presented by Dandies and Quaintrelles.

Pull out your best tweed this Sunday, November 15th. Riders will meet at 722 H Street, NE, eventually convening at Marvin for a post-ride celebration.

Here is bit of inspiration from across the pond, at a London variation of the Tweed Ride.

Wallpaper* Discovers DC

Oh, I've been waiting for this for quite some time and I am so excited the day is finally here!!!

The Wallpaper* coveted city guide will finally include Washington, DC. This guide is the be all end all.

You can pick it up at Politics & Prose in a few weeks.

A short education on An Education

An Education is a must see for film lovers and novices alike.

However, An Education offers up more than just stellar performances and cinematography.

An Education is impecably stylized; full of a retro-British style that fits in quite nicely for DC sensibilities. The costume design is spot on; a combination of British reserve and bold steps.

An Education, stars the breakout Carey Mulligan and the immensely talented Peter Sarsgaard.

You can catch An Education at E Street Cinema.

Best Picture..Ever??

The best picture ever?

Yes. Yes, it is.

I have a total girl crush on Natalie Portman.

The shoulder cuffs are absolutely fantastic!

Le French

This has absolutely nothing to do with anything- but is this not the coolest dresser you have ever seen? Check the Le French Dresser by ibid on Wary Meyers.

WWCBP: What Would Carrie Bradshaw Post?

Let's face it; if Sex & the City were currently on air, Carrie Bradshaw would not be a columnist for a daily paper...Carrie Bradshaw would be a blogger.

Not too long ago Sex & the City aired Sunday evenings on HBO, however today new media has totally changed the game(and the fashion world.) I would actually expect Carrie Bradshaw to have her very own fashion blog.

So, here is my question of the week:

What would Carrie Bradshaw post about?

All Hallow's Eve

Happy Halloween. Oh, I love this day; an excuse for even the most reserved to live out their costume fantasties. So what are YOU going to be this evening?

[images here and here...oh yeah, and here]

A Beer Lover's Heaven: Birch&Barley/Churchkey

Last week I got an early look at the much anticipated Birch&Barley/Churchkey in Logan Circle. In fact, you could almost hear the neighborhood cheer as the new spot opened its doors.

Check out my full review and Justin's great photo tour at ReadySetDC.

Spotlight: Commonwealth & For The Greater Good

Commonwealth, the gentleman's streetwear/fashion/sportswear boutique on Florida Avenue has sprouted an entire culture right here in DC focusing on changing the shopping experience. The shop seeks to provide progressive designs, blending young up-and-coming and contemporary designers. Along with its big brother, For The Greater Good, Commonwealth has exposed the community to art and ideas through exhibitions and in-store events; working with the likes of NERD, Kenna, the Clipse and artists such as Cody Hudson and Eric Coleman. The shops carry brands such as A.P.C., Ray Ban, Red Wing, Stussy Deluxe, Converse, Cassette, Maiden Noir and many more.

This summer, For the Greater Good played host to Greater Good Mondays at the Donovan House rooftop; which proved to be a go-to location on steamy Monday nights in the city.

All in all, the two shops are transforming the male shopping experience into a more progressive, socially responsible and inventive process.

Just released Comme des Garcons x Converse Chuck Taylor (above)

Check out For the Greater Good and Commonwealth at 1781 Florida Avenue NW or call 202.265.1830

Celebrate: For the Love of It

Saturday, November 7th you are invited the celebrate Redeem's 3rd anniversary, where else but at Redeem (1734 14th Street)

To celebrate Redeem's 3rd anniversary De*Nada designs, Kelly Towles and DJ Cassidy will celebrate pop shop style. Don't miss.

Above: De*Nada warm and cozy designs, perfect for fall.