S.W.A.G
Fashionable Crowd Flocks To South Moon Under’s Lookbook Party
Posted by Lorin Drinkard / Friday, April 13th, 2012
Shoes, shoes, shoes! / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
To celebrate the release of their funky, beach-set spring lookbook, South Moon Under, along with SpicyCandyDC and special guest Nylon editor-at-large Dani Stahl, threw a swinging party last night at their Clarendon location. The up-and-coming DC area fashionable blogger duo, Carlis Sanchez and Katya Ananieva, killed it by styling individual looks for 14-pages of this season’s biggest trends. Major “Get in my wardrobe now!” reactions upon viewing.
The fabulous Dani Stahl, posing outside SMU. / Photo credit: Lorin Drinkard
Swarms of chicly dressed guests sipped on Honest Tea, munched on Georgetown Cupcakes and took advantage of the storewide 20 percent off discount (score!). From crochet scalloped shorts and pretty baubles to pastel denim and punchy handbags, the store was abuzz with a flurry of shopping.
So many choices. / Photo credit: Lorin Drinkard
The ever-so-cool Dani Stahl, who writes Nylon‘s beloved ‘Factory Girl’ column each month, chatted with customers and bloggers throughout the night, even petting one guest’s dog. According to her knowledge, Nylon is apparently the only magazine her petite pouch won’t drool on.
Dani breaks down her ring party. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Local area fashion bloggers Lacey of A Lacey Perspective, The President Wear Prada, Alison of Chain Strap Purse, LBVie Ashley, Cheralee of Lyle Style and Waverly of Pich & Roor, among others, showed their support for SpicyCandyDC by turning out, in stylish ensembles, no less.
Carlis, Dani and Katya. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Dani and the magazine-lovin' pooch. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Funky earrings brighten up an outfit. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
SpicyCandyDC, Dani Stahl and the lovely ladies of W Salon who did hair styling for the night. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
SpicyCandyDC Lookbook poster. / Photo credit: Lorin Drinkard
Lacey of A Lacey Perspective (left) poses for a photo. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
More of Dani's arm party. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Trio of fashion perfection. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
SMU shoe crush. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
– Lorin Drinkard
Posted by Geoff Nelowet / Friday, April 13th, 2012
by Chloe Gould
Stru tting through the streets of Fairfax in studded Louboutins and a striking motorcycle jacket, Ooh La Lara boutique owner Lara Bissadi-Cofer is, quite simply, style. A personal stylist to politicians, moms on the go and high-brow fashionistas alike, Bissadi-Cofer is frosting Fairfax with custom-made women’s jewelry.
The small European-inspired boutique, tucked back behind Main Street, is quaint and lavish in its design—a cozy shop filled with antique armoires and bookshelves dripping with Swarovski crystals and bold gems. With the collection of pieces following Bissadi-Cofer’s journeys around the world—Iran, Paris, Madrid, Toronto and Portugal—each find builds upon the idea of high-style and casual, or a bit more refined elegance.
Swarovski crystal cuff s and pendant earrings from “Sex and the City II” sit on the shop’s center table, and a crystal necklace fit for a ball, which was purchased from Oprah Winfrey, sits atop one accessories cabinet. Bissadi-Cofer, who is the former store manager of Tysons Galleria’s Oilily, prides herself on her up-and-coming designer picks. Although pieces from the more renowned designers, like Rodrigo Otazu, can be re-ordered, Ooh La Lara is filled with one-of-a-kind jewelry.
April 2012
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Friday, April 13th, 2012
Designers are diving in this spring with their aquatic-inspired collections. Otherworldly looks, resembling the deep, dark ocean blue are a growing trend this spring and summer. Many are titling the trend, Under-the-Sea because of its ethereal silhouettes, aquamarine shades of blue, pearl trimmings and delicate fabrics.
Chanel's spring/summer 2012 runway show in Paris. (Photo courtesy: jessicamichault.com)
Karl Lagerfeld traveled to great depths for Chanel’s spring/summer 2012 runway show in Paris. The backdrop was designed to represent the seafloor with oversized coral reefs and seashells in pure white. Delicately patterned fabrics in pastel nudes and blue tones were a prominent them throughout the show. The legendary Chanel pearls—typically seen in long necklace form—were repurposed into waist belts and hair accessories.
Dense ruffles portray coral reefs, soft texture evoke waves of water and ensembles are finsihed with seashell accessories. (Photo courtesy: style.com)
Alexander McQueen’s collection—designed by Sarah Burton—adds some color to the mix. Her designs were sea deep in bright with bunches of bright coral on shoulders and necks, swirling strings of pearls, shell-like ripples on fabric, metallic highlights and mermaid silhouettes.
Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2012 runway show. (Photo courtesy: fashionetc.com)
Dive in, the water’s fine! Here are some off-the-runway examples of how to wear this trend.
Tropical fish studs, $48, juicycouture.com; Foly & Corinna paillette-embellished chiffon top, $136, theoutnet.com; High-waisted hotpants, $56, topshop.com; Calvin klein sandals Bea T strap color block, $139, Bloomingdales.com; Rita’s orange octopus and fish cocktail ring, $40, fantasyjewelrybox.com. (Photo courtesy: polyvore.com)
-Hilary Adleberg
Undeniable Boutique’s Undeniable Grand Opening Bash
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Thursday, April 12th, 2012
Just one of Undeniable's many, many stunners, only $60! (Photo courtesy of Undeniable Boutique)
Hello there, shoppers!
Over the past five months, Undeniable Boutique at Fairfax Corner has quickly become beloved among NoVA fashionistas. I mean, what’s not to love?
The store is loaded with on-trend, boho and classic apparel that’s full of color and embraces the best of what fashion has to offer, the world over — with prices that are surprisingly pleasing. And that’s not to mention a staff, led by stylish and sweet owner Alicia Russman, who are all passionate about fashion and emphasizing each shopper’s unique beauty.
That’s why we’re sure you’ll save the date for the store’s grand opening bash, It Had to BU, next Friday, April 20, from 3-8 p.m.
Tommy McFly and Kelly Collis of 94.7 Fresh FM’s The Tommy Show will provide music and entertainment, there will be a fashion show featuring customers flaunting the hottest spring styles, the first 100 shoppers to RSVP for the event will be sent a $10 coupon redeemable at the event (make that $20 if you bring a friend new to the store), and additional deals and giveaways will be offered, including coupons hidden throughout the store.
The schedule:
3-8 p.m.– Bites/beverages, giveaways and shopping
5:30-7:30 p.m.– Live entertainment by The Tommy Show from 94.7 Fresh FM
6:30 – 7: p.m.– Spring Fling fashion show
Will we see you there? To attend, RSVP to Shelli Vasser Gilliam at shelli@vassergilliam.com.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Enticing Elopements at Old Town’s Morrison House
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Wednesday, April 11th, 2012
Get the best of both worlds, elopement and a traditional wedding, at Old Town's Morrison House. (Photo: Morrison House)
Hello there, shoppers!
If most of your shopping — not to mention all your thoughts? — these days involve anything and everything to do with getting hitched, and you’re way over all of the hullabaloo, you may be eyeing up elopement options. But before you run for the hills and get hitched, leaving your family and your lifelong dreams of what your big day would be in the dust, take a look at the “Simply Charming Elopement Package” available at Old Town’s Morrison House through Aug. 31.
With the $6,000 package, all the thinking is done for you, and you can still have a very special, super-classy day with your dearest (up to 18 guests).
Included in the package are the following amenities for the bride, groom and up to 18 of their favorite family and friends in tow:
Ceremony
- Ceremony in the four-star hotel’s lovely Parlor
- An officiate to perform your wedding ceremony
- Beautiful bouquet and boutonniere for the bride and groom
- Choice of violinist, guitarist or cellist to play at the ceremony and reception
Reception
- Cocktail reception with butler hors d’oeuvres for 1 hour in the Parlor, Library and Courtyard
- Full premium bar and selection of house wines, cocktails and soft drinks
- Champagne toast
Dinner
- Morrison House’s Louis XVI Room set for 20 with ivory linens, chivari chairs, votives and gold chargers
- Floral centerpieces by Enchanted Florist in Alexandria
- Three-course dinner with wine pairings and coffee service
- Delicious petite wedding cake or choice of dessert
Accommodations
- 10 beautifully appointed guest rooms, including a suite for the bride and groom at the Morrison House, a Kimpton Hotel
- Complimentary wine hour in the Living Room from 5 – 6 p.m. for all hotel guests
- Valet parking or free shuttle to and from Reagan National Airport
- Champagne and strawberries for the wedding night in bride and groom’s suite
Intrigued? For more details, contact Annee Gillett at events@morrisonhouse.com or call 703-842-2796.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Wednesday, April 11th, 2012
I see London, I see France, I see sales on underpants! Lookout for some upcoming lingerie events that are offering deals that will make you smile and designs that will make your significant other blush.
For more details or to schedule an appointment with a lingerie stylist, call your nearest Nordstrom store. (Photo courtesy: nordstrom.com)
Nordstrom is hosting the Frill Seekers event on Friday, April 20 and Saturday, April 21. Get a peek at the newest lingerie styles for spring and feel free to enlist the help of a lingerie stylist for advice on what looks are best for your specific size, shape and style. Spend up to $50 and receive a free gift with purchase while supplies last. Nordstrom will have you covered—sort of—in styles from brands such as Betsey Johnson, Natori, Chantelle, Wacoal, Kensie and Freya.
Nordstrom and participating brands will donate $2 for every bra purchased at the event to Susan G. Komen for the Cure® to help support research and lifesaving community programs.
For more information, contact Bloomers’ owner Kim Putens at 202-297-9090 or kim@shopbloomers.com. (Photo courtesy: shopbloomers.com)
Bloomers is an underwear, loungewear and sleepwear boutique that believes beautiful lingerie should be functional and financially friendly for women to enjoy every day, not just on special occasions. In celebration of the re-launch of the Bloomers website, the new Shirlington store and the introduction of the store’s mascot, Betsey Bloomers, the store will be hosting events from April 15 to April 28.
“Betsy is a great addition to Bloomers,” said Kim Putens, Bloomers owner. “And, finally our website really portrays the look and spirit of our stores and the Bloomers brand.” (Photo courtesy: shopbloomers.com)
Participate in the special events with Betsey Bloomers and you will be eligible to win great prizes and discounts! Below are the contests and events leading up to the in-store event on Saturday April 28.
Where is Betsy Bloomers? – Between April 15 and April 25, follow Betsy’s blog to learn where Betsy will be popping up in the Old Town Alexandria or Shirlington areas. Guess all the venues she is at and submit your answers by April 27 to win a Grand Prize Gift from each of the venues Betsy visits. Submit answers to betsy@shopbloomers.com in order to be eligible to win the Grand prize.
Panty Radar – Share with us your funniest underwear story. All of us have an embarrassing moment like when we wore those red panties under a pink dress thinking no one would notice. Post your stories on Bloomers’ Facebook page by April 27 and the story that gets the most likes will win a FREE 3-month Panty of the Month club subscription, a $60 value. The winner will be notified on April 28. The rules: keep it clean but make it funny.
Pick a Discount or Gift – Come into either Bloomers location on April 28, pick out a pair of undies from the grab bag, and learn your on the spot discount or gift. Each pair of panties in the grab bag will have a secret discount or gift listed on the tag. Discounts or gifts will be honored on April 28 only.
Happy shopping!
-Hilary Adleberg
Sure Things: Kiehl’s Creme de Corps
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Tuesday, April 10th, 2012
An unbelievably awesome body moisturizer, starting at $11. Score it for free at the new Kiehl's store in Tysons.* (Photo: Kiehl's)
Hello there, shoppers!
When it comes to body moisturizers, do you feel like you’ve run the gamut in terms of options, from bargain buys at drug stores to pricey products at department stores and dermatologist offices, only to be left thinking, “There must be something better”? Well, don’t be discouraged. Soon your super-frustrating quest for soft, supple skin sans greasiness and stinky smells may be dunzo.
Yours truly, on a search for the perfect body moisturizer for decades, was given a sample of Kiehl’s Creme de Corps recently, only to realize that the illusive ‘something better’ has been at Kiehl’s all along. If I had only been paying attention; 61 out of 64 customers would recommend this moisturizer to a friend on kiehls.com, and reviewers have given Creme de Corps 4.5 out of 5 hearts.
Why?
The magical stuff turns dry, alligator-like skin into soft, baby bottom-like skin in no time — sans stickiness (it may feel sticky at first, but that diminishes once it dries), greasiness and strong scents. In other words, think skin you can’t wait to show off to the world, thanks to a lotion that doesn’t rub off on clothes or overpower your perfume, just in time for warmer weather.
The only con as far as I can see with Kiehl’s Creme de Corps is the price; prices start at $11 for a 2.5 fl. oz. bottle, with a one-liter pump bottle coming in at $72 and various sizes in between. But a little goes a long way, so a big bottle should last and last.
Some reviewers, including at least one pregnant woman, complain that they can’t deal with the lotion’s smell. Honestly, I’d argue that the stuff is practically unscented.
Dying to try it? With every purchase at kiehls.com, receive three complimentary samples — plus free shipping through April 15. But even better, score a free full-size sample (up to a $20 value) with any purchase of $100 or more at the new Tysons Corner Kiehl’s store, the first in Virginia, through May 16. Just print out the offer and bring it to the store.
Of course, a great time to visit would be the grand opening on April 24.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Posted by Geoff Nelowet / Monday, April 9th, 2012
Seth Freeman
by Lexie Ramage
In 2003, Alexandrian Meg Carter started out desi ning jewelry for herself. Now Lilly Pulitzer, Barbara Bush and Kathie Lee Gifford, among others, own some of Carter’s pieces. Carter has come a long way in a short time from selling her pieces to a li ttle shop in Kennebunkport, Maine, to resorts in the Caribbean and practically everywhere in between. Carter has even been featured in museums such as the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian’s Gem and Mineral Collections.
Carter specializes in shells, organic shapes, bright colors, long chains, pearls, semi-precious stones, cloisonné aquatic animals, charm bracelets and geodes. “I don’t really speak to trends as much as just work with the material,” says Carter. Her jewelry is what she calls “effortless elegance.” Women can just throw them on, and the pieces make the outfit more interesting. Most of Carter’s pieces are very versatile and can be dressed up or down. “I have a rule that I won’t do anything that I wouldn’t wear myself,” says Carter.
Carter has two collections—“Meg Carter Designs, inspired by the sea” and “Town by Meg Carter Designs”—and is coming out with a third line around ski resorts. Her designs are featured locally in various NoVA stores and at megcarterdesigns.com.
Shopping Simplified: 3-D Systems Introduces the At-Home 3-D Printer
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Monday, April 9th, 2012
“If you can think it and you can dream it, you can print it today,” declares Abe Reichental, President and CEO of 3-D Systems. Have a crack in your phone case? Need the right shade of shoes to perfectly complete your ensemble? Want to make a toy replica of yourself? Well all these inventions and more are possible in the comfort and convenience of your own home with the Cube. See how it works.
Shoe developed using pesonal printer. (Photo courtesy:msnbc.msn.com)
3-D Systems recently launched its first at-home printer called the Cube, a machine that gives birth to your idea—or someone else’s idea. At cubify.com you can upload your own designs to sell, or browse other people’s designs to buy. Reichental says that the Cube is useful “for ages eight to 80.” The printer, said to be released later this year, will cost $1,299 and come with Wi-Fi, 25 free files, and the plastic, Lego-like material required to create a few initial projects.
Now you can be the designer and producer!
-Hilary Adleberg
Locally Made Spring Accessories on a Serious Sale
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Monday, April 9th, 2012
Hello there, shoppers!
Here’s hoping everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend. As spring is loaded with holidays and other reasons to celebrate, it’s never too early to be thinking about the next one. Should you already be brainstorming Mother’s Day gift ideas, you’re in for a real treat next week.
Saturday, April 21 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.), and Sunday, April 22 (noon – 5 p.m.) local jewelry designer Queen Bee Designs will be hosting a huge trunk show and sale at its home base, The Hive (1410 Cool Spring Drive), offering wholesale prices on all kinds of gorgeous jewelry — with prices up to 50 percent off retail. To make things even sweeter, Queen Bee will be doling out complimentary bubbly along with the bargains.
One to add to the calendar for sure with beautiful baubles like these:
(Photos courtesy of Queen Bee Designs)
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar