Posts Tagged ‘Northern Virginia’
Branding NoVA, is it possible?
Posted by Lynn Norusis / Wednesday, February 8th, 2012
Last week we heard from fellow Northern Virginian, Jeremy, who wrote that Northern Virginians have a distinct image. “We’re career-oriented. We want to build a career here, not necessarily meet someone or make it rich here,” he says.
In response, I received an e-mail last week from Jihye (Jee-hay) who is 21-years old, from South Korea and recently moved to the States to pursue a bachelor’s degree. She sent me the following message:
“Northern Virginia definitely has a brand. I recently moved here from another country. I can speak English, but it’s not as easy as speaking my native language. I am very unfamiliar with the culture here. My question is am I included in NoVA’s brand because I’m living in NoVA, or am I merely an outsider?”
The Metro-D.C. area is home to thousands of international residents and first-generation Americans. As a teacher at Northern Virginia Community College and George Mason University, many of my students come from China, Japan, Vietnam, Eastern Europe, South America and various parts of Africa. They speak languages such as Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, Korean, French, and Farsi and have taught me about their cultures, customs, traditions, and religions, which they have managed to incorporate into their daily lives. No matter our “brand” Northern Virginia is truly a melting pot. We can drive to Annandale for Korean barbeque, sample Ethiopian cuisine in virtually any neighborhood, visit The Eden Center in Falls Church for Vietnamese dishes, or cab it to your favorite kabob house in the area.
Northern Virginia can feel like an international community at times, and like Jihye, you may feel like a newcomer. I’m not from NoVA; neither are the majority of people I know who live here. But over time, you will eventually call NoVA home.
If you are new to Northern Virginia, do you feel like an outsider, or are you assimilating into the area with relative ease? Also, send me your plans for Valentine’s Day or V-day dates that bombed. Let’s share! E-mail me at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com.
-Katie
Pssst. We’ve Got Your Spring Fashion Sneak Peaks!
Posted by Lorin Drinkard / Wednesday, February 8th, 2012
Hello, runway. / Photo credit: Lorin Drinkard
Like they say, fourth time’s the charm.
This week, Crystal City hosts the returning fashion frenzy of an event – Crystal Couture. Through Friday night, more than 40 designers from NoVA, D.C. and Maryland are strutting their latest and greatest spring lines on the runway for our viewing pleasure.
Five evenings of discounted duds, runway shows, hot jams and more. And the best part? It’s all open to the public and you don’t need your wallet to get in. Although after seeing some of the major trunk sales, you will be pulling it out faster than you can say,
“Ooh, love it!” (0:54)
Last night, Philippa Hughes of the Pinkline Project graciously hostessed the runway. While waiting in between model walks, guests browsed the couture racks of gowns, tops and more. Looking to start an arm party? Oodles of bangles and bracelets on display should get you your bauble fill. Other event highlights: complimentary henna tattoos and Paul Mitchell makeovers.
Now, onto the c-l-o-t-h-e-s. Check out snapshots of the Beltway (and beyond!) designers’ hottest looks for after winter. Also known as coming-out-of-hibernation time.
Ibhana Creations
From black and white graphic prints to exposed zippers, this international line (with a local boutique in Bethesda) added simple yet lovely touches to classic styles. Our favorite piece = a drapey, muted green jacket.
A sharp black dress from Ibhana Creations. Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Another Ibhana Creations design on the runway. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
The selected spring collection. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
South Moon Under
With fashion-forward stylings and an eclectic spin on things, South Moon Under showcased some clothes that make us wish all this dreary/almost snowy weather was dunzo. Think tribal + tropic + pops of coral. To find a NoVA store near you, click here.
Tribal pants, anyone? / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Another warm(er) weather look from South Moon. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Jeans get a major boost with a flirty top. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Nude hues + tie-waist shorts. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Best piece: a vacay-inspired rompsuit (part romper, part jumpsuit). / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
The C.A.T. Walk Boutique
Offering a range of sizes (from 0 to 26) in new and consignment pieces, plus fantastic accessories and shoes, The C.A.T. Walk Boutique represents the D.C. fashion scene. Stripes, purple tones, sequins and black touches make appearances in their runway walk. Bonus: check out the sleeveless grey hooded cape in photo #2. You’re welcome.
One shoulder, stripey goodness. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Note to self: buy this. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
The C.A.T. Walk's lavender/deep purple look. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Satin + shimmer. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Ugglee Collection
Samuel Mintah, the brains behind Ugglee, presented an assortment of looks on the runway. From monogrammed tops and cut-out shoulders to animal print and menswear pieces, Ugglee Collection brings originality and spice for spring inspiration. Hear Mintah share about his designs at this link.
Pastels take center stage. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Maxi-mum style appeal. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
The Ugglee Collection mixes hearts + stripes. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
A look for men by Ugglee. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Ke’Chic Boutique
Punchy lipstick, trenches and bridal-wear looks hit the runway to show off this College Park boutique’s collection. We’re loving their sleeveless pieces and mile-high heels. For more stylish Ke’Chic options, visit their website here.
That's a wrap. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
A swingy houndstooth coat from Ke'Chic. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Calling all brides. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
For Crystal Couture’s upcoming runway schedule of events, check out their site here.
–Lorin Drinkard
Field Notes: Salone’s African Cuisine in Springfield Shuttered
Posted by Stefanie Gans / Wednesday, February 8th, 2012
After reading former NVM critic Warren Rojas‘ review of Salone‘s in Sterling, I eyed the African restaurant’s peanut soup for a potential Cheap Eats spot <<the March issue lands in stores February 23>>. I started that day in D.C., drove to Chantilly for some desk time, then ate along the way in Middleburg, Aldie, Leesburg and then, finally, to Sterling as the last stop of the trip.
At first I passed the shopping center housing the restaurant, which happens often as I learn the vast coverage area of the magazine. And then I saw Salone’s: dark. I just stared and forgot that I was blocking traffic as I squinted to see open hours because – I swore – I checked and they should have been open at the time.
I parked the car, walked up, and found a white note hanging from inside the closed restaurant.
Salone’s has not responded for comment. Salone’s owes $26, 992.88.
Details after the jump >>>
Read the rest of this entry »
Date Ideas for the Seriously Serious Couple
Posted by Colleen Callery / Wednesday, February 8th, 2012
Valentine’s Day is creeping up, only a mere week away!
Don’t have plans yet? Don’t panic, yet. We have a few ideas you can check out to make the most of the holiday.
Get Classy: with a little Mozart
Alexandria Symphony Orchestra: Stoltzman and Mozart
Feb. 11 @ 8 p.m. and Feb. 12 @ 3 p.m. One of the most renowned figures in classical music, clarinetist Richard Stoltzman, will appear in Alexandria for two performances of the Mozart Clarinet Concerto. / Schlesinger Center at Northern Virginia Community College Alexandria Campus; $5 children, $10 student, $30 senior, $35 adult.
Get Close: with an intimate Sunday brunch
Valentine’s Sunday Brunch at DuCard Vineyard
Feb. 12 @ 11:30 a.m. Enjoy a lovely Valentine’s Sunday Brunch catered by L’Etoile Restaurant of Charlottesville and featuring the beautiful harp music of Vicky Lee. The beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains serve as your scenic backdrop for this elegant date with your loved one. Limited seating, and advance reservations are required. / 40 Gibson Hollow Lane, Etlan (Madison County) VA; 540-923-4206; $40.
Get Culinary: with a cooking class
Cooking Class and Winemaker Dinner: Cooking for your Valentine
Feb. 10 @ 6:30 p.m. This class focuses on how to cook a great meal for your Valentine with Chef Mike Lund at Delaplane Cellars. Class sizes are small, so act fast! / Delaplane Cellars, 2187 Winchester Rd, Delaplane; 540-592-7210.
Get Wild: at the zoo!
Woo at the Zoo
Feb. 11 @ 4:30, 6:30, and 8:30 p.m. Looking for the “wildest” way to celebrate Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank? The Smithsonian’s National Zoo’s fourth annual Woo at the Zoo teaches you about animal mating, dating and reproductive habits in an honest and humorous forum. Be prepared to laugh riotously and maybe blush! Attendees will enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and the opportunity to decorate sweets for your Sweetheart. A cash bar will feature specialty drinks served in the exclusive Woo at the Zoo commemorative glass. / Visitor Center auditorium, Smithsonian National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington DC; 202-633-4470; $11 FONZ Members, $22 nonmembers; This event is restricted to adults age 21 and older (ID is required for admission).
Get Handcuffed: at the National Museum and Crime and Punishment
Crimes of Passion
Feb. 11-14 @ 4 p.m. to close. Back by popular demand, couples are invited this Valentine’s Day weekend to visit the museum and experience “Crimes of Passion.” Couples will be bound together as they tour the three levels with over 600 exhibits, special crimes of passion boards, and will hear true stories such as the “Valentine’s Vampire.” / 575 7th St NW, Washington DC; 202-621-5567; $45 per couple, must be 18.
Get Inspired: with an Art Gallery Talk
David Gariff speaks about Love in Art all throughout the month of February (including Valentine’s Day) in the West Building of the National Gallery of Art. Talks start at 1 p.m. and last about an hour.
Still looking for more ideas? Check out our events calendar for the entire month of February. If you are looking for a night out in the city, head over to datenightsdc.washington.org for help creating the perfect date.
Just for fun, here are a few exceptionally cute gift ideas:
Good Together Stacking Vessels by Pigeon Toe
Photo courtesy of pigeontoeceramics.com
“Say I Love You” Pillowcases by BoldLoft
Photo courtesy of BoldLoft
Blackboard Heart Card Kit by Bailey Doesn’t Bark
Photo courtesy of Bailey Doesn't Bark
-Colleen Callery
Posted by Lindsey Leake / Wednesday, February 8th, 2012
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Obama holds slight lead over Romney in Virginia, according to new poll
Alexandria waterfront residents take legal action against city rezoning plan
Virginia Sheriffs Association opposes legislation that would restrict the use of restraints on pregnant inmates
Senate Finance Committee endorses bill forcing online retailers to collect Virginia sales tax
Light snow headed to NoVA today
Two Loudoun County students honored at White House Science Fair
(Compiled by Lindsey Leake)
Meatless Love: Vegetarian Dining on Valentine’s Day
Posted by Joey Hernandez / Wednesday, February 8th, 2012
Surprise! This is vegan.
Valentine’s Day means flowers, chocolate and a delicious dinner. In the years prior, I have celebrated the day of love by enjoying a juicy, grass-fed steak, cooked rare. But, this year is different; we are expecting our second child and eating a well-done steak (under-cooked meat is a no-no for pregnant women) is not on my bucket list.
Sure, I can eat chicken but I have consumed so much chicken in the past few months that I swear I can see feathers growing on my head. So, instead I chose to join vegetarians on a search for a romantic spot for meatless eaters.
Here is a list for the no-steak crowd:
In Paris: The Ashby Inn offers a $79 vegetarian and vegan four course fixed price menu which includes: smoked Brussels sprouts, parsnip purée, soy emulsion and honey crust.
In Falls Church: Sea Pearl Restaurant offers a la carte items, such as toasted pearl couscous, raisins, toasted almonds, chickpeas, preserved lemon and harrissa for $19.
In Clifton: Trummer’s on Main offers a $72 vegetarian three-course fixed-price menu which includes: Swiss chard and cannellini beans served with Parmesan broth, pine nuts and trumpet royale mushrooms.
[tips for the food desk]
Photo: Shutterstock
Posted by Lindsey Leake / Tuesday, February 7th, 2012
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Dept. of Emergency Management schedules statewide tornado drill for March 20
Gingrich drops ballot lawsuit
Fairfax County to seek private-sector assistance in Route 1 redevelopment project
Fredericksburg man charged with embezzlement of county property
Loudoun County parents summoned to court over kids’ consistent tardiness
Repeal of Virginia handgun sales limits expected to impact the entire East Coast
(Compiled by Lindsey Leake)
Posted by Lindsey Leake / Tuesday, February 7th, 2012
Monday, February 6, 2012
Vandals spray paint racist, anti-Semitic, vulgar graffiti throughout Warrenton
Funeral held for murdered Alexandria activist
Wind power may be coming to Virginia
Fairfax brigadier general dies in Afghanistan
Fairfax County Police bust illegal gambling operation
(Compiled by Lindsey Leake)
Our Favorite Things: Perfect Patterns
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Tuesday, February 7th, 2012
By Chloe Gould
It’s all about the perfect pattern. Patterned prints are on their way in this season, lending a little bit of spunk to the most traditional of pieces. And whether it’s a classic upholstered Victorian couch or a simpler, more subdued area rug, the pattern packs the punch.
Amelie Sofa (Blazing Poppies), Anthropologie, $3,298
This gorgeous sofa, inspired by vintage French wallpaper swatches, certainly commands attention with its bold print. But its structural elegance and hardwood detail gives it just the right touch of classic to stay away from tacky. It’s a centerpiece to the pattern craze in its unique balance of timeless and trendy.
Turquoise Nomad Accent Lamp Shade, World Market, $13
Pink & Orange Flocked Accent Lamp Shade, World Market, $15
These two patterned lamp shades act as the perfect accent to simpler bases, with the light adding styled ambiance to any room.
Isis Chenille Tapestry Rug, Pottery Barn, $119-$499
It’s not bold, bright or show-stealing, but this beige tapestry rug couples well with bolder colors and balances any traditional set-up. The tapestry pattern strays from the bland, but still stays simple for the more understated approach.
Pinwale Alphabet, Anthropologie, $14 (per letter)
These corduroy letters are perfect for any room from the bedroom to the bathroom to right above the mantle. Spell out your initials, a fun label or any of the accent favorites: home, love or family!
Kantha Quilted Throw, West Elm, $90
Hand-stitched by female artisans in Calcutta, these individually unique throws each offer a different pattern and color combo to the mix. Drape one over a solid, or patterned, couch or upholstered chair for a little printed texture.
Slipper Chair (Rainbow Ikat), Urban Outfitters, $379
This vintage-inspired armless chair works rich colors into a traditional pattern for a surprisingly classic, but hip, family room fashion.
Adding Some Funk to Your Abode
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Tuesday, February 7th, 2012
By Chloe Gould
Photo Courtesy of Decorium
Lines of vine-covered brick buildings and riverside boutiques are broken up by one King Street stop of whimsy and eccentric. Chandeliers hang low, dripping with crystals and beaded garland, and sprigs of the classiest of crazy stand out on every armoire and table top display.
Decorium, Old Town’s dose of wonderfully whimsical home décor and interior design, has set out to bring modern, creative and edgy design to Northern Virginia. And store owner and interior design extraordinaire, David Chenault, has broken down his signature tips and tricks to the lavish fantasy of home décor for the everyday designer.
“A room should talk before you enter it,” Chenault says. “It should be speaking to you.”
With a design portfolio that houses everything from Bass Pro Shops to the Georgetown Ritz-Carlton to Alexandria’s first LEED-certified green home, Chenault has one mission—make your home your own.
“Go with your gut,” Chenault says. “If you really like something, start there and then work outside of that. Mix it in and it will work; everything will come together to make its own personality.”
Touting a style built around the infusion of classic and modern, the design guru is a firm believer that even the most traditional of homeowners can create a chic and style-conscious space. And it’s all about reusing and reinventing the pieces that mean the most.
“You’ve inherited a table from your grandmother ; let that be the traditional piece and then marry it with something a little more modern, a little more current,” Chenault says. “Take that traditional side—a Cogswell chair or a prim and proper Chippendale sofa—and throw in a silver leaf table or tree stump, something that’s a little bit funky that takes down the seriousness that the room is trying to be.”
And don’t shy away from the daring. Chenault’s Decorium is frosted with the most gaudy and flashy accessories and tie-ins, but they’re what give the store its signature flair. The crazy lends itself to comfort—it’s warmer, broken-in and fits the owner’s personality.
“Pull a hot pink fabric and some funky floral pillows. Go crazy,” Chenault says. “I think it’s more sophisticated that way. A guy who’s wearing a suit takes off the tie and it just makes the look a little more comfortable.”
Photo Courtesy of Decorium
But high-styled comfort can be hard to achieve. So what’s the quick trick to a current, classic and cool space? Accessorize. Chenault says purples have been hot this fall and winter, and true reds are showing up in summer collections.
Modern-shaped vases and glass are reflectants in a room, adding to the overall feel, while nothing beats a nailhead ottoman and a good piece of artwork, Chenault says.
And above every design trick and room-changing accessory, stay true to your personality.
“I think it’s great to not be taken so seriously and just be fun and funky with your own space,” Chenault says. “Most people are taught to be traditional, but when you’re home, just let your home be you—or who you want to be.”
