S.W.A.G
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Friday, April 20th, 2012
This spring is all about the colors! Color blocking is great and all but these graphic prints take it to a whole new level. Prints—from stripe, to floral, to fusion—are a prominent trend this spring and summer. Designers are coming up with so many creatively chic patterns that are spot-on, no matter your style. Whether you’re more low-key, subtly stylish or fashionably forward, there’s sure to be a print for you.
If you’ve conquered the single pattern and you’re already getting tired of color-blocking, than why not make it a double? It’s a dangerous job, so be careful—but don’t be afraid to be bold! Pairing a striped top with a striped skirt is definitely acceptable as long as the colors are all in the same family and lines work to compliment your body and your style. When done correctly, pairing different patterns will create a nonchalant, devil-may-care look. Look how Burberry and Ferragmo’s Spring/Summer 2012 collections make pairing prints look as fun and easy as one, two, three!
- Burberry Spring/Summer 2012. One print. Too cute. Three statement pieces all speaking in perfect harmony! (Photo courtesy: thefashionspot.com)
Ferragamo Spring/Summer 2012. Won-derful! Two times the fun. Tres belle. (Photo courtesy: the fashionspot.com)
Happy spring shopping!
-Hilary Adleberg
Posted by Geoff Nelowet / Friday, April 20th, 2012
by David Gignilliat
CREATISTA/Shutterstock
Hip Flop [hip flop]
n., a fashion faux pas precipitated by a vain attempt to look cool, hip or younger than one really is. There is a fine line between being trendy and trying too hard. Wearing a style that doesn’t work for your lifestyle, persona or age suggests that you’re trying too hard.
Examples may include attempts to wear chunky-framed glasses, skinny jeans, graphic or ironic tees, or equally futile attempts to go goth, hipster, punk or some other subculture to which you currently (or may have never) belonged.
Nicole Miller Steps Into Stunning New Territory
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Friday, April 20th, 2012
Hello there, shoppers!
Nicole Miller, long loved in the wedding scene, has expanded her bridal collection to include beautiful bridal accessories, just in time for spring! The best part about this stunning new category at Nicole Miller: The accessories, which run from $274-$400, are not only gorgeous but very versatile.
Sashes can do double or triple time as a brooch or hair piece with a quick removal of ribbon.
All photos courtesy of Nicole Miller
Look for the new beauties at Nicole Miller and Nicole Miller Bridal stores as well as nicolemiller.com today!
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
PS. See you at Undeniable this evening!
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Thursday, April 19th, 2012
Chelsea Clinton in a Suzanne Couture Millinery hat (Photo: suzannehats.com)
Hello there, shoppers!
With Virginia Gold Cup, May 5, just shy of two weeks away — not to mention Preakness quickly following — and fashionistas all over the DMV finalizing their race day ensembles, it’s about time we discuss a design detail that leaves many in a dilemma: hats.
While nothings adds polish like a proper topper, perhaps no accessory gives women more anxiety. After all, wearing one isn’t exactly inconspicuous.
Want to wow e’m in a good way? Read on for a listing of top area hat shops eager to help, but first advice from two millinery mavens to the stars.
We recently scored tips on toppers from Suzanne Newman of Suzanne Couture Millinery in NYC, one of the biggest names in custom couture hats, with clients including Chelsea Clinton and Yoko Ono, her designs often gracing the pages of Vogue.
Then we chatted with D.C.-based accessories designer Nina O’Neil behind the Etsy shop CAIONINA, whose work recently made the high-fashion cut on “Gossip Girl,” her 100 Felt Wave Fascinator spotted on none other than queen B. Blair Waldorf in the show’s 100th episode. (For a behind-the-scenes look at O’Neil’s gorgeous D.C. studio, see Refinery29.)
Q&A with Suzanne Newman
Suzanne Newman, milliner to the stars (Photo: suzannehats.com)
Q: Your custom work is often celebrated in revered fashion magazines like Vogue and graces the heads of the world’s most high-profile celebrities at all sorts of soirees. Which types of events are most inspiring when it comes to crafting a unique hat for the occasion? Weddings, the Kentucky Derby, royal celebrations … ?
A: The horse races always provide the most creative inspirations since my clients usually give me the freedom to be a little more extreme than usual. As a rule, however, I still prefer a well-balanced, elegant hat that complements the lady’s ensemble and personality, rather than an extreme creation meant to solely to attract attention.
Q: In the spring, we think horse races here in Northern Virginia and the D.C.-Metro area, not only as big fans of the Kentucky Derby but local races here at home, including Virginia Gold Cup at The Plains and Preakness in Baltimore. When you think proper toppers for horse races, what are some of the hats’ must-have characteristics?
A: For horse races I prefer larger hats that are more whimsical to smaller ones. Of course the hat should complement the wearer’s ensemble both in the choice of colors and tones but also in the style and look of the dress.
One of Newman's Summer 2012 stunners, price upon request. (Photo: suzannehats.com)
Q: You’re known for your extreme, avant garde creations. Is anything totally off limits in terms of hats for horse races?
A. It is true that I like to be at the forefront of the fashion trends, but a lot of my clients do not necessarily want to look like runway models. I do a lot of classic, elegant pieces that can be worn on several occasions and that will not go out of fashion. For horse races it might be a little different since one might want to make more of a statement … although too large a hat that can obscure vision or inconvenience someone next or behind you is inappropriate. That said, nothing is off limits, except bad taste.
Q: What sorts of materials do you enjoy working with most?
A: Since most horse races, whether in Europe or the U.S., take place in the summer, the materials of choice are straws of all kind, sisals, pari-buntal, panama straw and pegaline.
Q: What has been the most challenging project you’ve ever worked on for a client?
A: A few years ago, one of my clients from a preeminent Texas family was getting married on a mountain slope in Vail, CO. The ceremony was to take place with the bride and groom on a snowmobile … I was asked to make a wedding veil to fit on the snowmobile’s helmet. Came out great … Also, when Yoko Ono appeared on stage at the opening of the 2006 Winter Olympic Games in Turin, I made a white mink cap for her.
Q: Typically how long does it take for you to complete a project?
A: Depending on the complexity of the pieces and the deadline provided by the client as well as the number of fittings, we can usually produce in three to four weeks.
Q: At what price do your custom-made creations start?
A: Around $800.
Q: Your mantra as a milliner?
I don’t know about mantra, but excellence in workmanship, attention to detail, understanding of the client needs and wants are the concepts that drive everything I do in my work.
O'Neil's Royal Blue Felt Wave Fascinator, $74. (Photo: etsy.com)
Q&A with Nina O’Neil
Q: What are your biggest sellers on Etsy?
A: Fascinators for sure, Perfect Pleat Headbands and the Something Blue Bobbies.
Q: In terms of fascinators, what are your favorite colors right now?
A: I love the lilac and bright yellow; they are universally flattering colors on pretty much every hair and skin combination, and so happy for spring.
Q: For those new to fascinators, what are a few pointers for attaching them to the hair?
A: It took me a while to perfect the clips I use on my fascinators. Two alligator clips are attached under the fascinator that clip securely in to any do and won’t pull at your tresses.
Q: Which hairstyles do you believe best complement fascinators?
A: I think all hairstyles from very short long and straight to big and curly. I think they look a best when worn asymmetrically with a little attitude.
O'Neil envisions pairing these pretties with her royal blue felt wave fascinator for Gold Cup. Alchemie Mini Dress, $194, Anthropologie; Suno for Loeffler Randall Espadrille, $179; Kendra Scott Danielle Earrings, $60, Cusp; Willemstad Necklace, $58, Anthropologie. (Photo: polyvore.com)
Q: When you think fascinators, what sorts of clothes do you envision accompanying them?
A: I envision people wearing everyday outfits with fascinators … 1950s-style day dresses, long skirts and crop tops — whatever your signature style is. I think hair accessories are the finishing touch to every ensemble. Beyond a sense of confidence, I can’t think of any outfits in particular that wouldn’t be enhanced by the bright pop of a fascinator on your hair.
Q: Which of your accessories do you recommend most highly for Gold Cup goers?
A: Chunky necklaces, stacked bracelets and COLOR!
Q: Describe your go-to Gold Cup ensemble?
A: Something with a flattering shape for you. Whatever looks best on your body type, start there. Then I would say bright colors, modern design and a complementing colorful shoe.
Q: What’s the biggest mistake overall someone can make when accessorizing (no matter the occasion)?
A. One too many, and taking a theme too seriously. A little variety never hurt anyone.
Q: A celebrity whose accessorizing you give an A+?
A: Michelle williams, bright colors, and the perfect mixture of super delicate lady-like style and masculine details.
Q: In terms of style, which decade would you most like to be lost in and why?
A: A perfect split between the late 1920s and 1960s. Both inspire me with design colors and the hats, so many wonderful hats!
SWAG’s Preferred Gold Cup Hat Vendors (in addition to Suzanne Couture Millinery and CIAONINA):
Tops of Old Town, 2400 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 703-836-4511; topsofoldtown.com
Tops of Old Town offers a unique selection of hats that are sure to make a statement. Prices range upwards of $75, depending on designer.
Elinor Coleman Vintage Mirage, 117 S. Columbus St., Alexandria; 703-535-8200; vintagemirage.com
Visit Eliner Coleman Vintage Mirage for vintage hats in mint condition from the 1940s to present-day designs.
Salamander Touch, 100 W. Washington St., Middleburg; 540-687-4138; salamandertouch.com
Featuring unique designs from renowned milliner Anthony Gaskins, Salamander Touch has at least 50 hats in stock ranging from $285 to $600.
Betsey, 102 W. Washington St., Middleburg; 540-687-5748; betseyshop.com
This small boutique is committed to providing apparel and accessories that “celebrate individuality and creative expression in a big way.”
Kiskadee, 2205 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 703-549-0813; kiskadeeshop.com
Kiskadee stocks an elegant inventory of wide-brimmed hats as well as women’s dresses appropriate for the races.
Gossypia, 325 Cameron St., Alexandria; 703-836-6969; gossypia.com
An eclectic mix of merchandise, Gossypia’s hat selection caters to the customer looking for a more simplistic, yet functional style.
Pretty People, 108 N. Patrick St., Alexandria; 703-739-2522; prettypeoplevintage.com
Pretty People Vintage sells contemporary hats around $30 and treasured vintage hats that reach up to $100.
Horse Country Saddlery, 60 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton; 540-347-3141; horsecountrylife.com
All merchandise at Horse Country Saddlery is imported from England and wide-brimmed hats for women occupy the $300 to $400 price range.
Piccadilly Ltd., 80 Main St., Warrenton; 540-347-5300
Piccadilly boutique stocks an extensive assortment of wide-brimmed hats with casual hats starting as low as $20 and dress hats ranging between $48 and $105.
Happy shopping! See you at the races!
–Natalie Kaar & Hilary Adleberg
Sure Things: DiamondClean Rechargeable Sonic Toothbrush
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Wednesday, April 18th, 2012
Sonicare is a brand that I swear by. I’ve tried other electric toothbrushes and none even come close to matching the kind of clean that I get with my Sonicare toothbrush. I just tap the button and multitask during the two-minute brushing time—it may seem like a lot, but sometimes when I want a really deep clean I do a round two! No, I haven’t gone to dental school but the results are visible and have been dentist approved. My dentist was the one who recommended this extraordinary tool about 10 years ago and at my most recent appointment,—maybe four months back—during the cleaning, a different hygienist told me, “You have good hygiene.” Unable to reply with a mouth full of latex-gloved hands prodding a variety of metal tools at teeth and gums, I thought to myself, ‘I love my Sonicare.’
Includes two brush heads, USB charging kit, and charging glass. (Photo courtesy: philips.com)
I’m recommending the DiamondClean sonic toothbrush because the issues that I have with my outdated model all revolve around traveling and transporting the toothbrush. DiamondClean is ideal for traveling. Some of the features that I envy are the USB charging travel case, the charging glass—a bathroom size glass that you can simply place your toothbrush in to charge and/or use as a rinsing glass—and the brush head that can easily snap on and off. Of course other features of the enhanced model have been updated to improve cleaning as well.
The name is derived from the diamond shaped, medium stiffness bristles that effectively yet gently scrape away plaque. There are five modes for a better cleaning experience: Clean, White, Polish, Gum Care and Sensitive. (Photo courtesy: philips.com)
Retailing at $219.99, the price is a bit of an investment. But there are places to find DiamondClean at a discount. Amazon sells the toothbrush for $172.58. At J&R it’s selling for $184.88. Walmart sells the brush for $176.97.
-Hilary Adleberg
Sylene of Washington’s Cyla Weiner Talks Swimsuit Trends
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Wednesday, April 18th, 2012
Hello there, shoppers!
Now less than a month away from pools opening in this neck of the woods, it’s high time to score a new swimsuit. And while finding a flattering fit is first priority and can be a daunting enough task alone — especially under very unforgiving lights (I’ve found South Moon Under’s dressing rooms a bit friendlier than most) — there are also trends to consider. So what’s sure to make a splash this season?
Sylene of Washington’s Cyla Weiner, a veteran in the industry, talks SWIM TRENDS 2012.
COLOR
Weiner predicts lots of navy and forest or algae green to show up pool- and beach-side, as well as plenty of coral, orange, peach and fuchsia. She says, “Driving the color trend in 2012 is the nautical theme.”
PATTERNS & DESIGN
One-shoulder looks work overtime with an option to incorporate them into outwear looks. Polka dots continue to dot the scene, along with geometric prints and florals. And mix and match is the new mantra. Weiner suggests really having fun with it. “You can match either a print top with a solid bottom or vice versa.”
ADDITIONAL ELEMENTS
Weiner points to buckles in the swimsuit fabric or metal finishes as strong elements being featured in the summer suits this year. A few of her recommended brands along those lines: “Eres, Maryan Mehlhorn and Karla Colletto offer great suits with this attention to detail.”
A few of our top picks at Sylene emphasizing these trends:
Untamed Solids Tankini by Michael Kors Swim, $336 (Photo courtesy: sylenedc.com)
Melissa Odabash Jamaica Bikini, $170 (Photo courtesy: sylenedc.com)
Roidal Comfort Elidi Monokini, $277 (Photo courtesy: sylenedc.com)
Block Island Barcelona Strapless One-Piece by Miraclesuit, $152 (Photo courtesy: sylenedc.com)
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
A Launch Party You Won’t Want to Miss
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Tuesday, April 17th, 2012
Don't miss the launch party of the new store concept April 28.
Hello there, shoppers!
As everyone snaps some iconic photos of Space Shuttle Discovery today, make time to pencil in a launch party on April 28. One that has nothing to do with NASA but a lot to do with your space.
The Christmas Attic in Old Town is celebrating its new store-within-a-store, taking over the first floor: Urban Attic: Gifts. Decor. 364. Think everyday treasures and mementos from across the globe from exotic to chic. Meanwhile, the upstairs space remains a winter wonderland filled with all holiday merchandise all the time.
Saturday, April 28, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., join the store (125 S. Union St., Alexandria) for all kinds of family fun, from pony rides to balloon art, parasol painting, giveaways and more.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Not Sure If That’s Fashionable? Stacy London Can Help
Posted by Lorin Drinkard / Tuesday, April 17th, 2012
When wardrobe dilemmas strike, America turns to the ultimate stylist of stylists, the always chic Stacy London, host of TLC’s “What Not To Wear” and the newly launched nationwide Style for Hire.
Look who's on the cover! / Photo credit: Lorin Drinkard
On Saturday, we caught up with London at Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda, Md., as part of her across-the-country style tour. Here’s what she had to say about trends, wearing the Texas Tuxedo and her personal style.
Lorin: Okay, we’ve got to know. We’ve had this discussion in our office for awhile now: what are your thoughts about jean-on-jean looks?
Stacy: [Lauren Santo Domino] does a Chambray shirt in like a high-cut, high-waisted jean and looks like a basquillion dollars. But I don’t recommend it for the general public. It looks weird. It is a thing right now – Chambray is so big. You’re seeing a lot of lighter Chambray shirts. People are wearing them with denim. Usually there’s either a differentiation in the bleach or the wash or the grain of the denim so that it looks contrasting … but the Texas Tuxedo – the jacket and the jeans – that’s a little tricky.
Lorin: I think so, too.
Stacy: It’s not impossible but it’s hard.
Stylists at work selecting outfits for guests. / Photo credit: Lorin Drinkard
Bekah: So how do you stay ahead of the fashion trends?
Stacy: I don’t actually believe in doing that at all … I don’t care about the trends. I mean, I love them every season because I have ADD and I love to see what’s new. And what I love about fashion is that it’s an industry that insists upon creativity. You always have to change. There’s always something new to see. Whether or not it works for the individual is a very different thing. So fashion as an industry holds a lot of interest for me because I like things that change …
When it comes to people in particular, I always think you need to go with what works for me, not what’s in. It’s never about staying ahead of a trend … If you feel you’re dressing in a way that makes you feel confident and happy, then it doesn’t matter if you’re wearing trends or not, you’ll look good.
That’s about style … Fashion is an industry, style is solely about the individual.
Guests waited in line for autograph signings and photo ops with London. / Photo credit: Lorin Drinkard
Jolleen: That actually leads right into my question. How would you describe your personal style?
Stacy: Okay, so first of all, I’m a Gemini. Let me preface by saying that which is the sign of the schizophrenic. I have multiple personalities, for sure. Style personalities.
Lorin: Right.
Jolleen: Whatever you want to do.
Stacy: [Laughter] Depends upon which day you catch me. But my camera persona has stayed the same a little bit. The last few years it’s always been classic with a twist. I always do lots of sheath dresses and pencil skirts and things like that because I’m aware of wanting do things that feel sort of classic with a twist – whether it’s the color or the print or the pairing. I want it to look tailored because I’m curvy so if I do anything that’s too floofy, it just doesn’t read very well.
But my personal style is actually a little bit tougher than the way I dress on camera. As I age I’ve gotten much more into things that are better quality, kind of more investment pieces so I buy fewer clothes but I spend more on them. Things like … a lot more leather. I like things that are neutral but mixing textures and neutrals where as I used to be so into color … Now I’m a little bit more severe in my personal style.
Our outfits passed style inspection. Whew!
To get your very own style evaluation, check on London’s newly launched Style for Hire or visit the Style Tour this Saturday & Sunday from at Westfield Montgomery Mall. RSVP for a free style session/makeover here.
– Lorin Drinkard, Bekah Lowe & Jolleen Tran
Posted by Geoff Nelowet / Monday, April 16th, 2012
New product claims to camouflage, combat dark circles
by Natalie Kaar
Courtesy of Revision Skincare
Is covering up those dark, baggy circles under the eyes not enough for you? Looking for an overachieving product that also packs an anti-aging, corrective punch? Get ready to meet your makeup match.
Hitting the market this month, available online at revisionskincare.com, amazon.com and elsewhere, Revision Skincare’s Teamine Concealer ($60 for .33 fl . oz.) promises to hide undereye imperfections while turning back time in terms of reducing dark circles, fi ne lines, wrinkles and pu ffiness. That’s with the help of clinically proven peptides, extracts, natural minerals and antioxidants that are to bring noticeable results—hello, revitalization!—in as little as one to two months.
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Monday, April 16th, 2012
You may recognize former Fairfax County Public Schools teacher, Ashley Elmore from Robert E. Lee High School, Robinson Secondary School or season 14 of the reality television show, ‘The Bachelor’—yes, you read it right. Though it’s not a common career move for most high school teachers, Ashley Elmore is not like most high school teachers. Elmore’s expertise is business and marketing and she understands that in this ever-changing world, no dream is too big, but it is important to stay tuned to the reality of the situation. This fashion savvy professor isn’t afraid of a little notoriety but says it’s important to remember your values in every endeavor.
Elmore shares her experiences on the show, her current work toward achieving her PhD and her future plans of marriage. With her bubbly, energetic personality Elmore may not have won ‘The Bachelor’ but she did find her happy ever after.
Elmore participated in season 14 of 'The Bachelor' and the spin-off show, 'The Bachelor Pad.' (Photo courtesy: ashleyelmore.com)
Q: What influenced your decision to apply to be on ‘The Bachelor’?
A: My sister was involved with TV. She was on the Apprentice. Her experiences influenced me. I saw how much fun it was and what a great learning experience it was. I also believe that you only live once and that you should take advantage of every opportunity! I learned so much more about business and marketing from doing the show. I also met my future husband because of the show!
The couple plans to marry this Sept. in Aruba. (Photo courtesy: phillychitchat.com)
Q: How did the show introduce you to your fiancé?
A: Home one night, flipping through the television channels, Brian ended up turning to ‘The Bachelor’ and saw me. He said that I seemed funny, nice, and smart. We began exchanging messages back and forth. I was skeptical at first, but it turned out that he was a really great guy and a successful orthodontist in NJ! After months of emails and phone calls we decided to meet at a restaurant in Philadelphia. The second that Brian walked into the place I was in love! I texted my mom on our first date and said, “I met my husband.” If it wasn’t for me being on the show, I may have never met Brian. After one year of doing a long distance relationship, I packed up and moved to New Jersey. We are now engaged and will marry in four months! [She shares their story with a smile.]
Q: How would you describe your experience on the show? How was it living in a house with 24 other girls?
A: I loved every minute of being a part of ‘The Bachelor’. It was an amazing experience. I am still very close with the girls that I met on the show. We all bonded and became very good friends. We also have annual reunions to get together and catch up. We just did a “bachelor family” trip to Las Vegas.
The show is not scripted, but being in a house for weeks with no phone, no internet, no family, no work, and no friends does make you a little crazy! Emotions run high and there is always a lot of drama when 25 girls live together!
A beach trip with felow Bachelor contestants. (Photo courtesy: buddytv.com)
Q: Would you apply to be a part of another reality show after your experience on ‘The Bachelor’?
A: YES! 100%! I have no regrets! However, I would highly advise anyone on a reality show to remember their values. I was always classy on the show. I never drank alcohol and hooked up with any guys on the show. I acted like a lady and this is really important. Some girls “show off” on TV and it ruins their reputation or careers for life.
Q: Was there a stylist for ‘The Bachelor’ or were girls allowed to express themselves completely with their signature style?
A: The Bachelor staff helped girls pick their outfits, but there wasn’t a stylist. Each girl was encouraged to express her own style! We also often got free clothes to wear on the show! True Religion sponsored ‘The Bachelor Pad’ and gave us free jeans, shorts, and swimwear!
Q: What inspires your passion for the fashion industry?
A: I love looking nice and being dressed up! I am a girlie-girl and I love looking good!
Q: How long have you been a resident of Northern Virginia?
A: I lived in Northern, VA for 8 years! I just moved to NJ this year to be near my fiancé. We will marry this September in Aruba!
Q: You are currently working to get your PhD. What motivated you to reach for such a lofty goal?
A: Once I started teaching High School, I knew that education was my passion. I realized that I would love to teach college. Therefore, in 2007 I enrolled in a doctoral program at Old Dominion University to get my PhD in Education. I have been in the program for five years and I will be done soon! I can’t wait to have the title of Dr.!
Q: What is your current profession?
A: I am currently employed as a college professor at Georgian Court University in Lakewood, NJ. I teach undergrad business students and also MBA students.
Q: How do you incorporate your fun style into your professional wardrobe?
A: As a professor I have to dress very conservative. However, I still like to look stylish! Therefore, I will often accessorize. I will wear a cute necklace with my suits. Or, I will sometimes dress up a boring work outfit with cute shoes!
Q: Who are some of your celebrity fashion icons?
A: I love Cameron Diaz and believe that she always looks classy and fashionable.
Q: What are your favorite stores to shop?
A: I love LuluLemon Athletics. They sell adorable workout clothes that can also be worn in the daytime to run errands. Though the store is a little pricey, the outfits can be worn all of the time! I also just purchased beach dresses from Victoria Secrets. I love their summer line!
I am really good at finding good bargains! I don’t like to spend thousands of dollars on designer clothes—I can’t afford to on my teacher salary! However, I just found an awesome designer consignment shop and bought a slightly used pair of designer shoes! I paid half the price and can still strut around w/ my red bottomed shoes [Elmore says with a grin].