District Fray Magazine // May 2023

70 WAYS TO EXPLORE THE CITY

A LOOK INSIDE 9:30 CLUB REPLICA THE ATLANTIS

YOUR GUIDE TO AAPI MONTH

STYLIST + MULTIHYPHENATE LANA RAE

"NEXT IN FASHION" DESIGNER DEONTRÉ HANCOCK + 20 OTHER LOCALS CURATING THE D.C. VIBE

FRAY SUMMER NIGHTS

Free, outdoor concert series happening now through September at multiple locations around the DMV.

THE LAWN AT CITY RIDGE

3900 Wisconsin Ave. NW, D.C.

June through August

Fridays from 5:30-8 p.m.

MARKET SQUARE AT FOUNDERS ROW

109 Founders Ave. Falls Church, VA

May 20, July 15 + September 16 from 5-7 p.m.

SUMMER LIVE MUSIC SERIES AT THE BORO TYSONS

8350 Broad St. Tysons, VA

June through August

Thursdays from 5:30-8 p.m.

FRIDAYS AT FORT TOTTEN

400 Galloway St. NE, D.C.

June through August

Fridays from 6-8 p.m.

NOMA NIGHTS AT ALETHIA TANNER PARK

227 Harry Thomas Way NE, D.C.

March through September

Second Tuesday of the month from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

FIND YOUR LOCAL CONCERT SERIES AT bit.ly/fraysummernightsfreeconcerts

May 25–27

The Avett Brothers

3 Nights – 3 Different Shows!

Thu: Bill Frisell Trio

Fri: Seth Avett

Sat: Iris DeMent

70+ Shows On Sale Now!

June 24 + 25

Out & About Festival

Brandi Carlile

Yola | Lucius | Rufus Wainwright

Celisse | Jake Wesley Rogers | Brandy Clark

Bad Moves | Oh He Dead

Signature Theatre and Wolf Trap Present

Broadway in the Park

Lea Salonga and Megan Hilty

June 16

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

Ziggy Marley

Mavis Staples

June 17 + 18

Straight No Chaser

Ambrosia

June 21

June 9

Ms. Lauryn Hill

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

Special 25th Anniversary Performance

June 10

SOJA Protoje

Jesse Royal with special guest J Boog

July 21

DISPATCH

National Symphony Orchestra

Tedeschi Trucks Band

Vincent Neil Emerson

June 27 + 28

Tori Amos

July 5

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert

National Symphony Orchestra

July 8

August 3

Regina Spektor

Aimee Mann

Joe Hisaishi Symphonic Concert Music from the Studio Ghibli Films of Hayao Miyazaki

National Symphony Orchestra

July 14 +15

Nickel Creek

Aoife O’Donovan

July 23

...and many more!

WOLFTRAP.ORG

BOTH LOCATED IN D.C.’S UNION MARKET DISTRICT

VISIT US AT BYRDLANDRECORDS.COM + SONGBYRDDC.COM

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @BYRDLANDRECORDS + @SONGBYRDDC

Co-owners Joe Lapan and Alisha Edmonson. Photo by Kimchi Photography.

by Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty

more adventure

Make the most of every moment together as you unwind in modern, new guest rooms, explore National Harbor, or enjoy drinks with a view at Replay. It’s the summer of more at Gaylord National.

GaylordNational.com

more exploration

EDITORIAL STAFF

Robert Kinsler, Publisher + CEO robert@unitedfray.com

Monica Alford, Editor-in-Chief + Director of Media monica@unitedfray.com

Claire Smalley, Creative Director claire@unitedfray.com

Nicole Schaller, Deputy Editor nicole@unitedfray.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Designers

Julia Goldberg + Sally Rafidi

Editors

Annie Agnone + Abi Newhouse

Writers

Annie Agnone, Aviva Bechky, Tim Ebner, Colleen Kennedy, Chad Kinsman, M.K. Koszycki, Daisy Lacy, Keith Loria, Haley McKey, Nevin Martell, Myles Mellor, Abi Newhouse, Kristen Schott, Laura Silverman, Farrah Skeiky, Brandon Wetherbee, Andrew J. Williams III

Artists + Photographers

Jennifer Chase, Eric Dolgas, Nevin Martell, Tony Powell, Scott Suchman, Farrah Skeiky

ON THE COVER

Photographer

Tony Powell

Subjects

Lana Rae + Deontré Hancock

Location

Upstairs at The Morrow Hotel

Co-Stylist for Lana Rae Rania Younis

UNITED FRAY

Martin Espinoza, President martin@unitedfray.com

Brittany Rheault, COO brittany@unitedfray.com

Tom Roth, Key Account Manager tomroth@unitedfray.com

Lauren Gay, Accounts Executive lauren@unitedfray.com

Saige Elise Jackson, Account Executive saige@unitedfray.com

Mindy Lam + Kai Sia of Mindy Lam Jewelry. Photo by Andrew J. Williams III.

CURATORS OF STYLE. There’s a moment at most cover shoots when everything clicks into place and I’m left buzzing with energy from what we’ve created. Our May shoot was no exception, but the reverberations were more powerful than usual. I attribute this to a combination of the sheer volume of talent we had in the same space that day and a shared excitement for the vision of our Style Issue. Our cover subjects — D.C.-based designer Deontré Hancock, best known for appearing on season two of Netflix’s “Next in Fashion,” and stylist and multihyphenate Lana Rae — are stunning representations of the city’s dynamic fashion scene. In the seven-and-a-half years I’ve been directing the magazine’s cover shoots, I can without a doubt say this was the most creative we’ve ever been with wardrobe selection. Model and stylist Rania Younis pulled out all the stops for Rae, her co-stylist for the day, with one of the funkiest collections I’ve ever seen. A cape adorned with teddy bears draped over a sequined gown and an ’80s-inspired set covered in vixenish red lips and paired with bicep-high red gloves (major Grace Jones vibes) were among the final looks selected. Hancock crafted a handful of eclectic looks for the shoot, ranging from a white-andgreen embroidered short suit fit for a garden party to an edgy, free-flowing denim outfit covered in electric blue loose threads. Selecting which of these imaginative options best complemented one another was by far the most fun I’d had on set in a while. The dynamic setting, newly opened boutique hotel The Morrow in NoMa, was the perfect backdrop for the many vibrant moods dreamt up by our team. From countless bold poses struck by the duo on the rooftop, directly outside aptly named cocktail bar Upstairs, to the statuesque Rae sauntering along the bar counter at Nicholas Stefanelli’s new restaurant concept Le Clou (in platform boots and rocking her signature pompadour, no less) — each shot by photographer Tony Powell celebrates the collective freedom we have to curate our own personal style and our city’s vibe. We’re excited to share our gorgeous 108-page May issue with readers, highlighting 20+ local style setters and their impact on the District — plus so much more. Readers, thank you for your continued interest in and support of local storytelling.

MONICA ALFORD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Claire Smalley, Julia Goldberg, Nicole Schaller (front row). Monica Alford, Tony Powell (back row). May cover shoot at The Morrow.

RADAR

Ana-Maria Jaramillo of La Tejana. Photo by TJ Buttner.

WORDS BY ABI NEWHOUSE

This month, we’ve got some exciting classic events like play openings, comedy and concerts. But there are also events that belong strictly to May, like Cinco de Mayo fun and Mother’s Day offerings. Don’t forget about the one-offs, too: Watch people rappel a hotel, get awestruck at DanceAfrica and even celebrate Star Wars Day. Get ready for a wild time.

5.1

FIFTH ANNUAL MAKEHER SUMMIT WORKSHOPS AT NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WOMEN IN THE ARTS

Creative entrepreneurs have to work together. At these workshops, you can get the support you need at whatever stage you’re at in the process of building your business. $10+. 10 a.m. 1615 M St. NW, DC; nmwa.org // @womeninthearts

SHUT UP AND WRITE AT SOLID STATE BOOKS

If you, too, keep asking people for writing advice and come away with the same answer (that is: just do it), this event is

for you. Set aside time to get those ideas out of your head with people who understand. Free. 6 p.m. 600 H St. NE, DC; solidstatebooksdc.com // @solidstatedc

5.2

BAD MEDICINE AFTER DARK AT DC IMPROV

Dark subjects in a dark room. Bad Medicine takes their themes more seriously than they take their jokes. Come see how the two combine. $17. 7:30 p.m. 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; dcimprov.com // @dcimprov

LOVE + DANCE: AN ASIAN DANCE SHOWCASE AT ATHENAEUM

Check out dances from many regions of Asia, and some fusion performances, all spotlighting female artists. $18. 7 p.m. 201 Prince St. Alexandria, VA; nvfaa.org // @athenaeumnvfaa

DC POLO SOCIETY SUMMER SERIES

Join DC Polo Society, DC Fray and Congressional Polo Club for our sun-soaked, Sunday polo series where tradition and modern fun collide. Daycation to Congressional Polo Club for polo, yard games, signature cocktails, food trucks and themed activities. Friends, families and (leashed) dogs are welcome.

FUNBRELLA

SUNDAY, MAY 14 AT 2 P.M.

RED, WHITE + BREWS

SUNDAY, JULY 16 AT 2 P.M.

BUBBLES + BUBBLY

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 AT 2 P.M.

CONGRESSIONAL POLO CLUB

5.3

PERFECT LIARS CLUB AT BIER BARON TAVERN + COMEDY LOFT

It’s like two truths and a lie, but with more truths. And also, kind of like Mafia, where we all interrogate each other and end up more confused than ever. $15+. 7 p.m. 1523 22nd St. NW, DC; dccomedyloft.com // @dccomedyloft

5.4

NOMA FARMERS MARKET AT ALETHIA TANNER PARK

The farmers market season begins in NoMa. This is the grand opening, but the market will continue through mid-October. Free+. 4 p.m. 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, DC; nomabid.org // @noma.bid

5.4-6

MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU: UNOFFICIAL STAR WARS WEEKEND AT BARRACKS ROW MAIN STREET

Celebrate the original Star Wars, and then the prequels, and also the sequels…and all the spin-offs (!) at this festival full of as many events as there are shows. Free. Various times. 8th Street SE, DC; barracksrow.org // @barracksrow

5.5

14 STORIES OF NEW HOPE AT HILTON ARLINGTON NATIONAL LANDING

Stories as in building stories. Ninety volunteer rappelers will climb down the 14-story hotel while onlookers can witness the events, grab a drink and stop by food trucks — all to raise funds to help end homelessness in Northern Virginia. Free+. 9 a.m. 2399 Richmond Hwy. Arlington, VA; newhopehousing.org // @newhopehousing

Grand Central serves delicious classic American favorites year-round for dinner Monday through Sunday. We also offer sports betting. Please visit our website for more details.

Hamilton’s Bar and Grill has great drink specials, fantastic comfort food and top notch service. Come check out our ALL-DAY Friday happy hour with $2 PBRs and High Lifes and you’ll see why we’ve been a Capitol Hill institution since 2006.

Photo courtesy of Union Market.

THE DRIVE-IN SCREENING: “THE KARATE KID” AT UNION MARKET

Fighting is always the last answer to a problem, but watching fighting on a screen is fine. You know the drill: wax on, wax off, etc. $20+. 8:25 p.m. 1309 5th St. NE, DC; unionmarketdc.com // @unionmarketdc

MARGARITA TAP TAKEOVER AT LAS GEMELAS

It’s not Cinco de Mayo without margaritas, and lucky for us, Las Gemelas will have draft margaritas available on all four taps for happy hour participants to grab and go. Free+. 4 p.m. 1280 4th St. NE, DC; lasgemelasdc.com // @lasgemelasdc

5.6

AROUND THE WORLD EMBASSY TOUR AT PARTICIPATING EMBASSIES

We live in a mosaic of culture, and that manifests in food, drink, fashion, arts, music. You can see it all at participating embassies — a real crash course in culture. Free. 10 a.m. Various locations; eventsdc.com // @eventsdc

DC WINE WALK AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Stroll through D.C. neighborhoods as if you’re strolling through vineyards. This guided tour will provide you with eight different wines. $40. 2 p.m. Various locations; dcfray.com // @dcfray

GOTH BABE AT THE ANTHEM

If you’ve wondered what songs written on a boat sound like, this is your chance to find out. $35+. 8 p.m. 901 Wharf St. SW, DC; theanthemdc.com // @theanthemdc

OPENING RECEPTION: “MOURNING STUTTER” BY ZACHARY FABRI AT THE NICHOLSON PROJECT

Fabri’s first solo exhibition is informed by police violence against Black people in public spaces. Watch as he reclaims freedom in the public sphere through video, photography, sound, text and sculpture. Free. 4 p.m. 2310 Nicholson St. SE, DC; thenicholsonproject.org // @thenicholsonproject

STABLE BLOCK PARTY AT STABLE

The most beautiful party on the block lets you in on the action: You can tour artist studios, participate in workshops and experience a film festival. Free+. 12 p.m. 335 Randolph Pl. NE, DC; stablearts.org // @stablearts

5.7

MAKERS MARKET AT THE PLAZA AT WESTPOST

Local creators assemble at this market that also features a live DJ and all the eats the area has to offer. Free +. 11 a.m. 1201 S Joyce St. Arlington, VA; westpostva.com

TCHAIKOVSKY PIANO CONCERTO

MAY 4 | The Music Center at Strathmore

MAY 6-7 | Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall

THE PATHÉTIQUE SYMPHONY

MAY 19 & 21 | Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall

MAY 20 | The Music Center at Strathmore

SUPPORTING SPONSOR:

BUY TICKETS AT BSOMUSIC.ORG

JOSEPH MEYERHOFF SYMPHONY HALL | 410.783.8000 THE MUSIC CENTER AT STRATHMORE | 877.276.1444

Join the BSO to see Music Director Designate Jonathon Heyward take the podium.

The BSO’s Rachmaninoff 150 Festival is made possible by the major support of Judy and Scott Phares. The appearance of Behzod Abduraimov is made possible through the major support of the Bozzuto Family Distinguished Guest Pianist Fund.

5.7-28

“HERE THERE ARE BLUEBERRIES” AT SHAKESPEARE THEATRE COMPANY

When mysterious WWII-era photographs turn up at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, many reckon with what it means for the past and present. $35+. Various times. 610 F St. NW, DC; shakespearetheatre.org // @shakespeareindc

5.8

GOOD MEDICINE: A COLLECTION OF HEALING FORCES AT SMITH CENTER FOR HEALING AND THE ARTS

Learn about Indigenous forms of health and healing, all led by Native artists sharing why representation matters in our health system. Free. 12 p.m. 1632 U St. NW, DC; smithcenter.org // @smithcenterdc

5.9

NOMA NIGHTS CONCERT SERIES: CECILY DUO AT ALETHIA TANNER PARK

You can picture the movie montage now: It’s sunset, the air is warm, there’s live music, yard games, everyone’s laughing. Get in the frame. Free. 6:30 p.m. 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, DC; nomabid.org // @noma.bid

5.10

WASHINGTON SPIRIT VS. ORLANDO PRIDE AT AUDI FIELD

As of this writing, Washington Spirit’s season is looking bright. And did you know four players were called to the National Women’s Soccer Team before the World Cup this year? Catch them before they head out to defend the U.S.’s title this July. $25+. 7:30 p.m. 100 Potomac Ave. SW, DC; washingtonspirit.com // @washingtonspirit

5.11

“SHAKESPEARE WAS A WOMAN AND OTHER HERESIES” BOOK DISCUSSION AT POLITICS & PROSE

Avid Shakespeare defender? Think his (or her?) work is overrated? Either way, this book dives deep, asking the question many literary scholars won’t consider: Who really was Shakespeare? Free. 7 p.m . 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; politics-prose.com // @politicsprose

5.11-13

EMMA WILLMANN AT DC IMPROV

One of the few people from Maine, Willmann will make her comedic debut, showcasing how she keeps chaos under control. $20+. Various times. 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; dcimprov.com // @dcimprov

5.13

ARTS, BEATS + EATS FESTIVAL AT MIXT FOOD HALL

Get ready for a sensory overload: This festival offers visual, musical and culinary experiences, all celebrating the locals who make the city what it is. Free+. 12 p.m. 3809 Rhode Island Ave. Brentwood, MD; mixtfoodhall.com // @mixtfoodhall

HOT COCOA KARAOKE AT METROBAR

Hygge all year-round, even if the temperatures are soaring. Get cozy with firepits, s’mores, hot cocoa and the sweet, sweet vocals of strangers singing karaoke. Free. 7 p.m. 640 Rhode Island Ave. NE, DC; metrobardc.com // @metrobardc

5.14

FUNBRELLA: A DC POLO SOCIETY EVENT SERIES

AT CONGRESSIONAL POLO CLUB

Every few months, the time comes where one must leave the

city. And this beach party is perfect for that day trip getaway. $35+. 2 p.m. 14660 Hughes Rd. Poolesville, MD; dcfray.com // @dcfray

MOTHER’S DAY SOIRÉE AT LE FANTÔME FOOD HALL & BAR

If your mom just wants you to be happy for her gift, try this event where the whole family can feel some joy. Picture frame making, card creating, live music and food and drink specials await. Free+. 12 p.m. 4501 Woodberry St. Riverdale Park, MD; lefantomefoodhall.com // @lefantomeriverdale

MOTHER’S DAY YOGA + CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND BATH AT NATIONAL BUILDING MUSEUM

If your mom just wants some peace and quiet for her gift, this is one way to do it. All levels of yoga lovers can savasana while immersed in a hypnotizing sound bath. $30. 9 a.m. 401 F St. NW, DC; nbm.org // @nationalbuildingmuseum

NoMa Nights. Photo by Ben Droz.

5.15

NEW YORK METS VS. NATIONALS AT NATIONALS PARK

Witness a rivalry between two large East Coast cities. It’s kind of a made-up rivalry, but the game will still have plenty of tension, I’m sure. $20+. 4:05 p.m. 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC; mlb.com/nationals // @nationals

5.16

THE INNER LOOP READING SERIES AT SHAW’S TAVERN  D.C. is known for many things, and one of them should be its local writers. Get some food, get a drink and get a sense of the art of our literary community. Free. 7:30 p.m. 520 Florida Ave. NW, DC; theinnerlooplit.org // @theinnerlooplit

Y LA BAMBA AT SONGBYRD

This music will, apparently, “chisel away a story within a story within a story into the illusion of something singular.” We must see what this means. $18+. 7 p.m. 540 Penn St. NE, DC; songbyrddc.com // @songbyrddc

5.17

THE ORIGINALS: AN ALL-NATIVE COMEDY SHOW AT BUSBOYS AND POETS

Improbable Comedy brings an all-Native lineup to the forefront. It’s their debut, too, so let’s show them some love. $18+. 7:30 p.m. 235 Carroll St. NW, DC; busboysandpoets.com // @busboysandpoets

5.19

The Greater

Washington Hispanic

Chamber of Commerce promotes

CAROLINE POLACHEK AT THE ANTHEM

facilitates the success

and

and other minorityowned businesses and the communities they ser e

of Hispanic

through networking, outreach, ad ocacy, and education.

“So Hot You’re Hurting My Feelings” is a song for everyone. The rest, you’ll just have to listen and see. Either way, The Anthem makes anything sound amazing. $55+. 8 p.m. 901 Wharf St. SW, DC; theanthemdc.com // @theanthemdc

THE DRIVE-IN SCREENING: “COCO” AT UNION MARKET

Remember me, though I have to say goodbye. A perfect film for a family about a family remembering a family. $20+. 8:40 p.m. 1309 5th St. NE, DC; unionmarketdc.com // @unionmarketdc

5.20

FREE CONCERT SERIES: ELENA LA FULANA AT FOUNDERS ROW

Elena La Fulana is part of a D.C.-based Latin-folk band. Her sound is the perfect background music to a gorgeous spring night. Free. 5 p.m. 110 Founders Ave. Falls Church, VA; dcfray.com // @dcfray

STREET ART + LIBATIONS BAR CRAWL AT UNION MARKET

Meet at Crooked Run Fermentation, end at Selina Hotel. This mural-filled walk will be even more enjoyable with drinks in hand. Free+. 2 p.m. 1309 5th St. NE, DC; unionmarketdc.com // @unionmarketdc

800 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, NW SUITE 300 WASHINGTON DC, 20006

5.21

2ND ANNUAL CROSSROADS COMMUNITY FAIR AT LAUREL AVENUE

Join in for a market of hyperlocal food from many different cultures: pizza, empanadas, noodles and more. Free+. 10 a.m. 6929 Laurel Ave. Takoma Park, MD; mainstreettakoma.org // @mainstreettakoma

GUSTER AT MERRIWEATHER POST PAVILION

This was one of my ex-boyfriend’s favorite bands. Take that how you will. I can’t fault the Howard County Youth Orchestra, which is set to play with them. $25+. 7:30 p.m. Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; merriweathermusic.com // @merriweatherpp

5.24

CHICKEN AND BUBBLES WEDNESDAYS CANNING COMPANY

This event was so popular, Shilling kept it going for two months longer than they originally planned. The delicious deal is for two people. $95. Various times. shillingcanning.com // @shillingcanningcompany

5.25-27

THE AVETT BROTHERS AT WOLF TRAP

Their folk sound has stuck around for decades. It’s no wonder they’re booked for three days of performances. $51+. 8 p.m. 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; wolftrap.org // @wolf_trap

5.26

NICK OFFERMAN AT THE THEATER AT MGM NATIONAL HARBOR

He’s Ron on “Parks and Rec.” He’s Bill on what many publications call “the best episode of TV ever” on “The Last of Us.” And now, he’s Nick onstage. $85+. 8 p.m. 101 MGM National Ave. Oxon Hill, MD; mgmnationalharbor.mgmresorts.com // @mgmnationalharbor

5.27

STRUTMAN LANE AT UNION STAGE

This D.C.-based funk/pop band makes their Union Stage debut, and they’ll be performing unreleased content. Plus, there’s an after party. $20+. 8 p.m. 740 Water St. SW, DC; unionstage.com // @unionstage

5.28

LAUGHTER IN LINGERIE: SEXY EVENT TOUR AT ARLINGTON CINEMA & DRAFTHOUSE

If the event title doesn’t convince you to attend, I don’t know what will. Bonus, there will be music and comedy. $30+. 7 p.m. 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA; arlingtondrafthouse.com // @arlington_drafthouse

Located on the Rooftop at Union Market, Hi-Lawn is one of D.C.’s largest, most expansive rooftops for outdoor dining, drinking and socializing. We’ve got fun events every night of the week, from trivia and bingo nights, to live music and DJs, plus lawn games, picnics, grilled eats, creative cocktails, all with city views.

5.29

OPENING NIGHT: “INCENDIARY” AT WOOLLY MAMMOTH

In this play, a Black mother will try anything to save her son from death row. Using storytelling techniques from video games and comic books, the play grapples with trauma in new ways. Tickets on sale the week before opening. 8 p.m. 641 D St. NW, DC; woollymammoth.net // @woollymammothtc

5.30-6.4

DANCEAFRICA DC 2023 AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Get a glimpse into the cultures and dances of the African diaspora at this festival, which holds performances and classes as well as a market and oral histories. Free+. Various times. Various locations; danceplace.org // @danceplacedc

5.31

D.C. UNITED VS. CF MONTREAL AT AUDI FIELD

D.C. United faces (at the time of this writing) the worst team in the league — which means it’ll be a very good chance to witness D.C. United get a W. $27+. 7:30 p.m. 100 Potomac Ave. SW, DC; dcunited.com // @dcunited

DMV Sounds

COMPILED BY DISTRICT FRAY STAFF

Punk is alive and well in the District’s May local music lineup. If that is not your speed, there’s plenty of homegrown dreamy pop to enshrine you in the height of spring.

5.4

TIRED ALL THE TIME AT PIE SHOP

Opening a bill with Puce Moment and Cor de Lux, do not miss D.C.-based Tired all the Time. The trio describes their sound as an “attempt to graft new wave and stoner rock together.” They make beautiful music that’s self-aware enough to know all that glitters isn’t gold. If you’re looking for a gorgeous sound about the usefulness of corporate culture, look no further. Listen to Tired all the Time at tiredallthetime.bandcamp.com and follow them on Instagram @tiredallthetimeband. $12. 8 p.m. 1339 H St. NE, DC; pieshopdc.com // @pieshopdc

5.10

CLOSE (OF GO COZY) AT UNION STAGE

We’re fans of pretty much anyone willing to attempt to cover My Bloody Valentine. Silver Spring’s Go Cozy’s version of “To Here Knows When” is a fine rendition that made us bigger fans. Get to Union Stage early enough before the Mr Twin Sister show to see a set of Go Cozy’s hits — Go Cozy is great, but their output is rare. Listen to Go Cozy at gocozy. bandcamp.com and follow them on Instagram @gocozyyy. $18+. 8 p.m. 740 Water St. SW, DC; unionstage.com // @unionstage

5.13

CRYPTID SUMMER AT RHIZOME

Need a springtime Siouxsie and the Banshees fix? Vocalist Lizz Mazer and bassist Zach Wall (what a bass tone) know

Tired All

how to bring the drama. They describe themselves as gothy post punk — an accurate description. This is a great bill with another worthy-of-your-time D.C. punk band, Saffron, headlining. Listen to Cryptid Summer at cryptidsummer. bandcamp.com and follow them on Instagram @cryptid. summer.dc. $12. 7 p.m. 6950 Maple St. NW, DC; rhizomedc.org // @rhizome_dc

5.25

COLOR PALETTE AT THE POCKET

With heavy new wave and ’80s influences, Color Palette’s latest EP “Pacing Like a Lion” is a nostalgic, but still refreshing listen, and emblematic of their growing discography. Color Palette opens for Athens, Georgia-based band Easter Island and North Carolina-based band Slow Teeth. Expect a night of ambient cinematic soundscapes fit for a Sundance film score. Listen to Color Palette at colorpalette.bandcamp.com and follow them on Instagram @colorpalettedc. $15+. 8 p.m. 1508 N Capitol St. NW, DC; thepocketdc.com // @thepocket_dc

5.27

ARI VOXX & THE SAD LADS AT DC9

Cherry blossoms might have taken a bow last month, but Ari Voxx makes it a point to keep one of the District’s biggest tourist attractions top of mind with her self-described “D.C.’s Dreamy Pop Princess” persona. Dedicating a song to the aforementioned symbol of springtime in D.C., Voxx’s silky vocals often narrate themes of love and desire just out of reach. The result? Alluring melodies tinged with a melancholic tone. Listen to Ari Voxx at arivoxx.bandcamp.com and follow her on Instagram @ari.voxx. $15+. 7:30 p.m. 1940 9th St. NW, DC; dc9.club // @dc9club

The Time. Photo by Gabby Minkiewicz.

Reading List

WORDS BY ABI NEWHOUSE

Lost City Books, an Adams Morgan staple, holds books from all genres on its two-and-a-half levels. The shelves are lined with small press books, literary journals and translated works, along with all the classics, children’s books and contemporary works patrons are more familiar with — all in new and used condition. The store hosts book clubs and reading series and supports local writers as often as possible. As a go-to for many D.C. residents, District Fray got to speak with Corinne Acosta, book floor manager and children’s book buyer, and Eliza Hamburger, gift and card buyer, about what’s new and notable this month.

“Chain-Gang All-Stars”

by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

This novel about the prison industrial complex “deals with the idea of abolition explicitly,” Hamburger says. At Lost City, people often venture upstairs to find books on diversity and racial reckoning. “But there’s so many fiction books you can learn from in a different way,” Acosta says. “Even though they’re fiction, they’re based on a lot of reality. So, I feel like this is another good example of that.” Pub date: May 2.

“Greek Lessons”

by Han Kang, translated by Deborah Smith + Emily Yae Won International Booker Prizewinner Kang secured a cult following for her book “The Vegetarian,” and now with “Greek Lessons” hot off the press (published April 18 of

this year), Lost City expects the books to fly off the shelves. The novel tells the story of a Greek teacher in Seoul and his student who has lost her voice, and how they come together in a time of anguish. Available now.

“The

Illiterate”

by Ágota Kristóf,

by Nina Bogin

translated

This translated memoir goes over Kristóf’s life: her escape from Hungary in 1956, working in factories and finding her voice in writing. “I’m often enamored with writers who can do more with less,” says Ryan Phillips, shift supervisor at Lost City. “I think no one better captures that feeling than Kristóf. Her struggle with losing her native language as a writer forced her to create something so sparse yet so full of emotion that

it’s hard to imagine needing words at all.” Available now.

“The Language of Trees”

by Katie Holten

Published by Tin House, this literary anthology will give readers a new vocabulary when it comes to talking about nature. With an introduction by Ross Gay, the book includes essays by contemporary authors and those of the past (like Plato), all ruminating on the magic of trees, the folklore of the forest and cave paintings of our early relationship to the natural world. Available now.

“Out of the Sugar Factory”

by Dorothee Elmiger,

by Megan Ewing

translated

This nonfiction book details the sugar industry’s reach across the globe. “Like how it’s been such a driver of the transatlantic slave trade,

but also enriched a lot of Europeans,” Hamburger says. Published by Two Lines Press, Elmiger researches and collects stories to learn more about this complicated historical issue. Pub date: May 9.

“Yellowface”

by R. F. Kuang

Kuang is big in the sci-fi/ fantasy world, but this novel takes readers back to our world. “It’s sort of a satirical takedown of the publishing industry after [Kuang’s] experience getting her other books published,” Hamburger says. The novel deals with the erasure of Asian-American voices in publishing, and it doesn’t hold back. Pub date: May 16.

Lost City Books: 2467 18th St. NW, DC; lostcitybookstore.com // @lostcitybooks

Film Picks

WORDS BY BRANDON WETHERBEE

Every month in D.C., you have the opportunity to enjoy overlooked should-be classics, new experimental films off the National Mall, meet other scary individuals and, finally, see outdoor movies. Here are just a few of the special screenings worth 90 to 120 minutes of your time this May.

5.13

COUNT GORE DE VOL PRESENTS “FRIGHT NIGHT” (1985) AT AFI SILVER

One of the best parts about horror films is the horror film community. You can watch a nearly 40-year-old film any night of the week in the comfort of your home, but you’re not going to meet anyone IRL doing that. Hosted by local legend Count Gore De Vol, this screening of the original “Fright Night” is more a chance to meet like-minded individuals than to scream. Also, the film is fun! And so is the 2011 version. $15. 7 p.m. 8633 Colesville Rd. Silver Spring, MD; afisilver.afi.com // @afisilvertheatre

5.3

“CHILDREN OF MEN” AT ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE

This should have won Best Picture in 2007. It’s a better film than “The Departed.” But Scorsese absolutely deserved winning Best Director, so what are you going to do? Well, watch “Children of Men” and spread the gospel of Clive Owen as a leading man. It’s his best performance and one of the best films from a director on par with Scorsese: Alfonso Cuarón (“Y tu mamá también,” “Gravity,” “Roma,” “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” (WTF?)). $11. 7 p.m. 630 Rhode Island Ave. NE, DC; drafthouse.com // @drafthouse

5.6

“32 SOUNDS” AT NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART

A marriage of ASMR and non-narrative film (think of “Samsara”), “32 Sounds” is the exact type of film you want to see in a museum. Get engrossed in it on a big screen, enjoy a score by JD Samson (Le Tigre, MEN) at full volume and find yourself lost in all corners of the globe. Modern technology is a gift. We’re able to point and shoot every aspect of our lives. Viewed in the correct setting, the beauty of it all can be appreciated. This is that correct setting. Free. 12 p.m. + 3 p.m. 4th Street and Constitution Avenue in NW, DC; nga.gov // @ngadc

5.19

“COCO” AT UNION MARKET

Outdoor movie season is here. While spring weather is not as predictably idyllic as the summer, the out-of-theater screenings are beginning. We’re recommending the Union Market screening of the 2017 Pixar film because, if you want, you can watch it from your car. If it’s a little chilly, you’ll be fine. If it’s a little drizzly, you’ll be fine. You might have a distorted view, but at least you’ll be dry. And you can always pull up Disney+ on your phone and watch the movie in your car. $20. 8:40 p.m. 1309 5th St. NE, DC; unionmarketdc.com // @unionmarketdc

TO R. “Children of Men.” Photo from Universal Pictures. “Fright Night” (1985). Photo from Columbia Pictures.

Game Time

WORDS BY KEITH LORIA

Although May can be a special time for sports fans — with both the NBA and NHL playoffs in full gear — those of us in the District are on the outside looking in, as both the Wizards and Capitals had disappointing seasons and missed out on the postseason. Nevertheless, there’s still plenty of other sports excitement. The Nationals have a young, feisty team, and D.C. United is seeing rising attendance in their current season. The Washington Spirit (winners of the 2021 NWSL Championship) started their season down a few players, but for good reason: they joined the Women’s National Team. And the Mystics look forward to their season opener on May 19 (detailed below). Here are some sports highlights in the month ahead.

5.13

XFL CHAMPIONSHIP AT ALAMODOME IN SAN ANTONIO

Although you probably won’t be flying out to Texas to watch the upcoming XFL championship game, fans of the D.C. Defenders should definitely be ready to spend this night at their favorite sports bar as the team is one of the favorites to play in the big game this year. Led by quarterback Jordan Ta’amu, don’t be surprised to see the team hoist the championship trophy. And although nothing is official, there’s a chance the game will be shown at Audi Field. $35+. 7 p.m. 100 Montana St. San Antonio, TX; xfl.com/teams/washington-dc // @xfldefenders

5.19

WASHINGTON MYSTICS VS. NEW YORK LIBERTY AT ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS ARENA

Coming off a winning 22-14 record in 2022, the Washington Mystics start the new season with a game against one of their fiercest rivals — the New York Liberty. With Kristi Toliver and Shatori Walker-Kimbrough both returning from the 2019 championship team, the Mystics look to start the year on a winning note. $30+. 7 p.m. 1100 Oak Dr. SE, DC; mystics.wnba.com // @washmystics

5.20

WASHINGTON NATIONALS VS. DETROIT TIGERS AT NATIONALS PARK

For baseball fans who also happen to love “Star Wars,” get ready for your worlds to unite, as the Nats will present Star Wars Day in an afternoon game against the Detroit Tigers. Each of the first 10,000 fans in attendance will be given one of two Hawaiian shirts representing the Dark Side and Light Side of the Force. With both clubs predicted to land in the cellar of their respective divisions, the on-field matchup may take a backseat to the costumes and happenings in the stands. $24+. 4:05 p.m. 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC; mlb.com/nationals // @nationals

5.28

WASHINGTON SPIRIT VS. NJ/NY GOTHAM AT AUDI FIELD

Early in the season, the Washington Spirit had yet to lose in two matches, taking home a win and a tie. For the team to have a chance to take home the NWSL Shield, awarded to the team with the best record at season’s end, it’s going to need to play hard against rivals NJ/NY Gotham. Come out and support one of D.C.’s most electrifying teams. $15+. 5 p.m. 100 Potomac Ave. SW, DC; washingtonspirit.com // @washingtonspirit

Stone Garrett. Photo courtesy of the Washington Nationals Baseball Club.

I Will Follow

WORDS BY NICOLE SCHALLER

Staying informed on local happenings can be overwhelming, but these three creator picks will make your scrolling journey one you look forward to, offering everything from commentary on the dating scene to a perusal of the food scene to highlights in the art scene.

@BLACKGIRLSEXPLOREDC

As a freelance food writer for DCist and Insider, Cornelia Poku is no stranger to finding the best eats around the city. On both TikTok and Instagram, through her Black Girls Explore DC moniker, the Ghanaian-American DMV native shares the latest openings and new menus in the city, while peppering in her favorite dishes from local mainstays. Though covering the food in D.C. is not unique, what sets Poku apart is her candid demeanor. Her videos make you wish you could pull up a chair and join her for the meal. Note: To find Poku on Instagram, her handle is @blackgirls.exploredc.

@WAITDONTDOITPODCAST

luck: Their videos on both TikTok and Instagram are where the real magic happens. Featuring local topics and LGBTQ+ dating, Umanzor usually takes the lead on creating hilarious content that consists of roasting transplants, D.C. gay culture and themselves at bottomless brunches. Listen to “Wait! Don’t Do It!” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or any major streaming platform.

@DCWALLSFESTIVAL

Every fall for the last seven years, local and international artists coalesce to paint eye-catching murals around NoMa for 10 days. Organized by D.C. stalwart artist Kelly Towles, the festival’s Instagram account boasts dozens of new murals that spring up annually. However, for the rest of the year, the account showcases some of the best contemporary art around the world. Focusing primarily on public art, the account features sculptors, painters, performing artists and even animators. Regardless of the medium, the curated selection is consistently mesmerizing, including posts like a timelapse of a man using a flaming log on cement to draw a dragon, or a whole

Off the Clock with

Ana-Maria Jaramillo

WORDS BY ANNIE AGNONE

Ana-Maria Jaramillo is what some people in the hospitality industry call a “day walker.” In addition to running La Tejana — the wildly popular Tex-Mex spot slinging mouthwatering breakfast tacos, which she opened last year with her husband chef Gus May — Jaramillo has not one, but two day jobs. With Jaramillo at the helm as palate and creative director, La Tejana has quickly become one of Mount Pleasant’s hottest new restaurants, serving up authentic food inspired by her upbringing in McAllen, Texas. And La Tejana isn’t resting on its early success, either: They’re already expanding into a brand-new second floor and adding a brunch menu and full-service bar. When she’s not making the taco world go round, Jaramillo (who holds a doctorate in speech-language pathology from Northwestern University) sees patients and supervises clinical staff at Voz Speech Therapy, the only fully bilingual speech pathology practice in the city, which she founded in

2021. As if that’s not enough, you can also find her at George Washington University, teaching an undergraduate course called Multicultural Issues in Human Connection. Jaramillo says she’s able to do it all because she gets plenty of sleep — nine hours a night! — and lots of exercise, too. (What? How?)

“I say no to a lot of things,” Jaramillo says. “I used to be the ‘yes girl,’ and then I burned out and I had to go to therapy for a long time and still go to therapy. I’m learning how to say no to things that don’t really bring me passion.”

Reflecting on her ongoing quest for balance and sustainability, Jaramillo says the things she’s currently saying yes to — teaching, her speech therapy practice, La Tejana — all share one thing in common: a sense of community.

“It’s all about humanizing these interactions with people around me, making sure that I see them and they see me.

Photo by TJ Buttner.

That’s really the best part of life, building community. That’s the only way forward.”

When she’s not enjoying her bean-and-cheese breakfast tacos with habanero at La Tejana, she says most of her salary goes toward eating out, often supporting friends’ restaurants. We asked Jaramillo for a few of her favorite spots to eat and drink — and maybe even to find some community, too.

Before a Shift

My number one, Bagels Etc. — I’m there at least once a week, if not twice a week. I get bacon, egg and cheese on a jalapeñocheddar bagel, add avocado, with a side of hot sauce. It’s so fire. And then I get my coffee at Colada Shop. I get the cafe con leche, iced, Miami-style. I really love their coffee because we use the same local roaster, Lost Sock Roaster. Lost Sock is my favorite coffee in the city and Colada Shop executes their drinks very well.

After a Shift

After a shift, you can definitely find me at Menya Hosaki — the best bowl of ramen in the city by far — ordering the chicken karaage to start, usually hand-delivered by chef Eric [Yoo], and I get a bowl of the classic tonkotsu. The second place you can find me at is Thip Khao, a Laotian restaurant owned and operated by chef Bobby [Pradachith], eating the sticky rice. I’m definitely there once a week as well.

The Rare Night Off

For a late-night cocktail or nightcap, I have to shout out my neighbors O.K.P.B., the Mount Pleasant speakeasy. When I’m there, David [Strauss] or Dylan [Zher] will usually make me a tequila-based drink, Maid in Mexico. And my favorite martini in the entire city is The Kid at Tail Up Goat. I will often come sit at the bar and order this martini, made with an onion brine, and some small bites.

Follow Jaramillo’s many ventures at ana-maria-jaramillo.com, and on Instagram @anamariaslpd and @latejanadc.

Bagels Etc.: 2122 P St. NW, DC

Colada Shop: Multiple locations; coladashop.com // @coladashop

Lost Sock Roasters: 6833 4th St. NW, DC; lostsockroasters.com // @lostsockroasters

Menya Hosaki: 845 Upshur St. NW, DC; menyahosakidc.com // @menyahosaki

O.K.P.B: 3165 Mt. Pleasant St. NW, DC; okpbdc.com // @okpbdc

Tail Up Goat: 1827 Adams Mill Rd. NW, DC; tailupgoat.com // @tailupgoat

Thip Khao: 3462 14th St. NW, DC; thipkhao.com // @thipkhaodc

As You Are exists to hold and cultivate a safe and celebratory space for the LGBTQIA+ community. Café by day, bar and dance lounge by night, As You Are welcomes LGBTQIA+ patrons, from all walks of life, and allies in a versatile haven for queer expression and connection.

Our cover stars this month — designer Deontré Hancock and stylist Lana Rae — have the power to turn fabric into gold. Hancock, most recently featured on Netflix’s “Next in Fashion,” designs and creates upscale streetwear inspired by his childhood in Capitol Hill. Rae curates and styles looks for projects from the runway to the big screen. Their personal stories are reminiscent of each other: Both affected by profound loss, they create to keep moving, and to honor those who have passed. Both leap at opportunities and trust themselves to know what to do in uncharted territory. While their designs and styling made for the perfect picture, it was Rae and Hancock who stole the show, as they have done and will continue to do.

TWIST WHAT EXISTS

Designing for the future with Deontré Hancock

WORDS BY ABI NEWHOUSE | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

When I sit down with D.C. fashion designer Deontré Hancock, it’s in the middle of District Fray’s cover shoot. The mood is creative chaos; the sun, a pivotal accessory to the shoot, is hiding behind gray clouds. We have only minutes to talk, but Hancock is used to this type of chaos after shooting Netflix’s “Next in Fashion,” where he had to multitask — sewing new designs and once a full collection while producers and hosts interrupted his flow for interviews. Hancock is wearing a look he finished literally moments before meeting for the shoot — a green floral two-piece short suit, extra threads still hanging on.

In the four minutes we have before the sun emerges from the clouds, Hancock touches on moments in life that brought him to where he is now. Growing up in Capitol Hill surrounded by family, with some nieces and nephews his same age. Watching his parents get ready for church, his father in oversized suits and his mother dressed to the nines, never missing an elaborate church crown. Customizing his clothes throughout middle and high school, distressing jeans and adding patches. Teaching himself to sew through YouTube videos before going to the Academy of Art University in San Francisco to dive into fashion design. Family was his design inspiration, and his designs call back to his roots.

“In 2015, my mom got sick,” Hancock says. “She was

diagnosed with stage four cancer, so I stopped school to come back home.”

I’m about to reply when we’re called back to the photo shoot — the sun is out, and we’ve got to get back to work.

Picking Up the Pieces

I watch Hancock as I’m tasked with reflecting light onto him and co-cover model Lana Rae. This is his first time modeling for a cover, though he’s styled others for photo shoots before. Throughout the shoot, he switches outfits three times, all designs equally and fully himself — and with the context of his story, his inspiration is clear.

“My mom, we were the best of friends,” Hancock says when we can sit down again. “I just cherished her so much as a woman. She was the backbone of the family.”

The diagnosis was a whirlwind; he found out she only had three months to live.

“How do you make sense of that?” he asks.

His solution was to just give her hope. One day at a time, he encouraged her to make it as far as she could, until she eventually passed.

“After that, I didn’t know what to do,” he says. “I didn’t know how to pick up the pieces.”

Lana Rae co-styled by Rania Younis + Deontré Hancock in one of his own designs.

Fittingly, he started with pieces of fabric. Designing was his way out, and a way to support his family. His mother had always told him he’d be the next Michael Kors, so he wanted to double down to make her proud.

A few DMV institutions helped him realize what was possible in design. Howard University and Morgan State University would host fashion shows, and Hancock noticed there weren’t many menswear designers included — a gap he could fill. The positive feedback from family, audience members and customers encouraged him to keep going.

“My dad was always there to help set up shows, and he’d be in the front row watching,” Hancock says. “He would go around telling people his son is a designer. That really made me put my foot down and say, ‘Let’s take this seriously. Let’s do more. Let’s push it further.’”

He left the house one night, right after his father had gotten in the shower. When Hancock returned the next morning, the shower was still running.

“When I discovered my dad, I completely lost it,” Hancock says.

His father had passed away suddenly. On top of his grief was his goal unrealized: He wanted to become a designer to make money to take care of his parents.

“How can I take care of my parents if they’re not here?”

His life of color, design, patterns was muted — he got a nine-to-five job to survive in a gray lawyer’s office downtown. He moved in with his sister to a one-bedroom apartment and trudged through the Covid-19 pandemic. It took him years, and eventually getting his own apartment, to turn the sewing machine back on.

And then, after posting his designs and processes on Instagram, he received a random DM and almost wrote it off as spam.

“Netflix reached out to me in 2022,” he says. “I was like, ‘Call this number if you’re real.’ And a guy called me. I was like, ‘Okay. Let’s give this a shot.’ I told them my life story and they were tearing up on the phone. They were like, ‘We want to tell this story.’”

The casting process was lengthy; Hancock had to keep stepping out of work to take calls from producers. He had to take videos of his work process, and Netflix flew him to New York for a 90-minute challenge that involved designing clothes and answering producer questions at the same time. With no time to prepare, he decided to make a jacket on the spot.

“I was blown away because I actually finished the jacket,” he says. “I think I was one of the only people that completed something during this challenge. And one of the lead producers said, ‘I’m taking your jacket home.’”

He was officially cast for the second season of “Next in Fashion,” hosted by Tan France, fashion expert of the Fab 5 on “Queer Eye,” and model Gigi Hadid.

“My parents saw this future for me,” Hancock says. “It was crazy they didn’t get to sit there and experience it with me. But I still have my other siblings, and I’m still doing this for them.”

Out of the Gray

Hancock was enchanted by the production of “Next in Fashion.” Behind the scenes, stage setup, hair and makeup,

wearing styled outfits picked out for him, watching runways built from nothing to something in mere hours. He was up at six every morning and back at the hotel at midnight, often staying up even later to plan for the next day’s challenge. His goal was to make it past the first episode, which started out with a bang: Donatella Versace was the guest judge.

He went big, literally. His first design was streetwear elevated: a shimmery jersey, loosely ruched pants and a giant, floor-trailing puffer cape that had judges gasping. He won the first challenge.

He continued making waves throughout the show, every piece a new challenge for himself, but each one distinctly Deontré. He became close with the rest of the cast, and eventually made it to the top three, where he designed a full collection.

“The audience was going crazy for my collection,” Hancock says. “They were so loud.”

While he wasn’t completely thrilled with the outcome — time constraints and missing fabric altered his vision — his designs still represented the show’s spirit: they were designs not seen before, but that surely would be everywhere soon.

“They didn’t put our speeches in,” Hancock says of the final episode. “But mine was not just about myself. It was about helping other people get to this point.”

Even though he didn’t take home the grand prize, he still faced a whole new world after the show aired. His Instagram inbox blew up with people asking how they can support him, or relating to his story, finding inspiration in his familycentered, home-based ethos.

“I’m trying to stay sane and take on as much as I can,” Hancock says. “I can’t go back to a nine-to-five when this is my purpose.”

In fact, when he returned from the show, he never went back to the lawyer’s office.

“I think that was a sign from my parents: ‘Go do what you are supposed to do.’ And after that, I was like, ‘I can’t look back.’”

Instead, he’s looking forward. He’s got plans to help the next generation of D.C. designers through mentorship programs. And he’s working on his own brand, Hoodlvm, as well as sifting through opportunities for styling celebrities and campaigns.

As for what’s truly next in fashion, he says it’s not really creating a whole new way of dressing, but rather adding your own twist to what already exists: Change the shape, make it bigger, manipulate the fabric.

“I want this as bad as I want to breathe,” Hancock says. “I want to be able to become one of the greatest from Washington, D.C. I love to say that because I feel like people don’t take the fashion here seriously; they picture suits on the Hill. It’s another world here, and I want to highlight that.”

It’s his world here — out of the gray and back into the color that’s always inspired him. The sun is out, and it’s time to get back to work.

Check out Hancock’s progress and see some designs at hoodlvm.com. Follow him on Instagram @hoodlvm and @deontre____ .

STYLE AND GRIT

WORDS BY NICOLE SCHALLER | PHOTO BY TONY POWELL

In the pristine, swanky lobby of The Morrow Hotel, Lana Rae strides in with a bellhop cart piled high with luggage. With her perfectly coiffed updo, high cheekbones and statuesque nature, the stylist and multihyphenate instantly commands a room.

“I have always been very shy,” Rae confesses as we sit opposite each other on couches at The Morrow’s rooftop lounge, Upstairs, between shoots for our May cover.

The Glen Burnie, Maryland native is dressed in one of her four self-curated looks for the shoot: a brilliant green skirt that falls just below the knee with side ruching, a white crop top appliqued with two satin roses, strappy lime heels and multicolor gemstone drop earrings that brush her shoulders. Despite her striking presence, she says she had to work toward coming out of her shell.

“My father paid for modeling classes when I was 16 years old and he used to drive me there. That’s how I started in the industry — as a model.”

Standing on the ledge above a curved banquette at Le Clou (Chef Nicholas Stefanelli’s modern French brasserie situated

off The Morrow’s lobby), Rae lunges toward photographer Tony Powell who snaps photos from below. With every shot, she gradually adjusts her pose until she contorts to an entirely new stance with an ease that only comes from years of practice. Rae was born to be in front of the camera, but she also has skills and interests behind the scenes.

“One day, I was working as a model at a promotional event for this brand and the guy running it was like, ‘Hey, do you have 10 friends who can work this event?’” Rae says. “That’s my first memory of turning what I do into a business. I started an agency, and I started hiring models.”

At 21, Rae began to work with some of the liquor promoters she crossed paths with while modeling at events. These run-ins turned into working relationships where the brands reached out to her for models. Then another serendipitous opportunity came.

“I got a phone call from someone about doing a fashion show,” Rae says. “She worked for the American Heart Association and somehow somebody referred me to her.

Dreaming big + seizing opportunity with Lana Rae

That turned into me producing the Go Red for Women fashion show in partnership with the American Heart Association and Macy’s.”

For nine years, Rae produced the annual runway, which garnered celebrity attendance and national recognition with fashion magazines and tabloids covering the event. During press for the first show, Baltimore’s Fox45 asked if she would talk about the event on-air. Rae had no prior experience in television, but again she saw an opportunity to accept a challenge and excelled. Fifteen years later, she frequently appears on local news in the Baltimore-D.C. region for fashion segments and event promotion.

“Everything has been just a natural evolution of opportunities that snowballed and grew into what I do now,” she says.

While Rae remains humble to a fault, there’s no question she has gotten to where she is through hustle, organization and talent. As a producer, stylist, talent manager, casting director and model, she juggles it all with a calm resolve and has built a reputation on showing up and delivering. Early on, when an event organizer stiffed her and her models on compensation, Rae paid the models out-of-pocket because she knew the value of integrity outweighed a financial loss.

“I don’t really wear my emotions on my sleeve,” Rae explains about a key to her success in the industry. “Usually, I tend to be more of an analyzer and a thinker.”

Rae has styled celebrities like Usher and 2Chainz, as well as several Housewives from the Potomac and Atlanta franchises. In January, she styled each member of Maryland’s first family for Governor Wes Moore’s inauguration. Oprah Winfrey was in attendance to honor the first Black governor of her home state, and Rae had a chance to connect and interview her.

As for her own day-to-day style, Rae describes it as minimalistic with an edgy flair. She credits her mother’s Panamanian side for her desire to dress up, noting that when she visited, she saw men don three-piece suits in 90-degree weather.

“I wear a lot of black. I don’t do a lot of patterns. I love monochromes that are eye catching, but also simplistic at the same time. And then I’m aware that my hair is already doing a lot, so I try not to go overboard with clothes.”

Rae’s hair, which has become signature to her style, is almost always swept into a coif, styled heavy toward the front of her head — mohawk-reminiscent, but without the shaved sides or spikes. Like her career, her hairstyle came organically.

“My hair used to be thick and over 12 inches long. It started to get thin and stringy. I was tired of it. I did a big chop one day and had a stylist cut it. Over the years, it’s definitely gotten bigger, and I would experiment with different styles with my stylist. If I look back in my camera roll, I can tell when the photo was taken based on how small my hair was, or how different it was. But it now is my favorite version. I didn’t go in saying I want a signature look. It was more, ‘Okay, I like the style. It’s cool. It’s different. Let’s do it.’”

Rae does not consider herself a trendy person and advises against trends in general. Instead, she advocates for wearing what you love, what makes you feel great.

Sticking to her own style has served her well and allowed her to branch out. After landing a styling job for a Bravo TV show in Atlanta, she began to divide her time between Annapolis and Atlanta and continued to get gigs in both locations. While Atlanta may provide a higher profile celebrity and fashion clientele, Rae enjoys working in both regions.

“D.C. is not known as a fashion capital, per se, but there is a lot of fashion and arts in D.C. and a lot of talented creatives,” Rae says. “I feel like you have to be in that circle to really know it exists.”

During last DC Fashion Week in February, Rae could be spotted in the front row decked out in a black blazer dripping with silver crystal droplets. Her support for our local fashion scene stems from getting her start in the region and creating lasting friendships, like with DC Fashion Week Executive Director Ean Williams.

Still, Rae is committed to seeking opportunity. Within the last two weeks of February, Rae travelled back and forth between the DMV and Atlanta four times, eight flights in total. Her son, who lives and goes to school in Atlanta, is her main incentive to maintain her career trajectory.

“What keeps me motivated is my son,” Rae says. “Not that he has never motivated me, but in 2020, I lost my daughter. She was 20 years old.”

On Rae’s Instagram, she honors her daughter’s memory on birthdays and anniversaries, but she copes with her passing by pretending it didn’t happen most days. Her daughter struggled with addiction and died of an overdose after moving to Florida, away from Rae.

“Losing a child makes you realize: I don’t want to make mistakes that I previously did. My kids are 10 years apart. My son was 10 when she passed, he’s now 13. I want to make sure my son is well taken care of, that he’s mentally okay, that he’s happy, that I’m successful, so I can provide for him.”

Carrying the weight of loss, Rae propels herself forward through her work, wanting her son to not only be proud of her legacy, but to be able support him on whatever his dreams are (he currently aspires to be a pilot).

At the time of the interview, Rae said she was purposely slowing down for a few months following the styling for the inauguration, but she mentioned working with the Wammie Music Awards and Preakness festival to supply models and talent in the interim. The deliberate pause is to prepare for her next new first: heading to LA to be the head stylist for an undisclosed TV pilot later in June.

With only two hours to spare before boarding a flight to Atlanta — where she will then travel with her son to Las Vegas to celebrate his birthday — Rae and her assistant for the day pack the suitcases from the cover shoot. In a blink, Rae is back in her street clothes and heading for the lobby door with the bellhop cart wheeled behind. Opportunity awaits, and Rae is ready to claim what is hers.

To keep up to date with Rae, visit her website itslanarae.com and follow her on Instagram @itslanarae.

EAT

Caroline Yi of Sunday Morning Bakehouse. Photo by Nevin Martell.

On the Sunny Side Up

WORDS BY NEVIN MARTELL | PHOTO BY SCOTT SUCHMAN

Scott Drewno hates sad hotel buffet eggs, has no time for shoddily prepared diner eggs. The chef is boggled by why someone would mistreat the perfect ingredient, turning it into unappealing, unpalatable slop. With love and a little technique, eggs are an epiphany: ovular blank canvases ready to be transformed in nearly countless ways, truly the ultimate breakfast food.

Drewno is determined to give the egg its due at I Egg You, the pandemic-born weekend popup inside the shuttered CHIKO on Barracks Row. The eatery is powered by Drewno — former executive chef of The Source and a James Beard Award semifinalist — and his business partner Danny Lee, another James Beard Award semifinalist who founded beloved Korean restaurant Mandu. They collaborate as The Fried Rice Collective, the restaurant group responsible for the wildly popular Chinese–Korean fast-casual chainlet CHIKO and the much-decorated modern Korean restaurant Anju.

I Egg You has a simple vision: to serve up memorable fried-egg sandwiches, but with a few cheffy touches. Originally, Drewno envisioned using homemade sourdough for his handheld breakfast ’wiches. Then Lee introduced him to the milk bread made at Shilla Bakery, a Korean bakery with four locations in Northern Virginia and two in Maryland. Drewno instantly realized the fluffy white bread — think of it as richer, slightly sturdier Wonder Bread with a whisper of sweetness — would be the ideal foundation. Bonus: They would be supporting a local business, which is why they also decided to source sausage from Logan’s Sausage and use Ivy City Smokehouse’s lox.

Unnaturally orange American cheese is not part of the equation at I Egg You, which relies on fontina instead.

“It’s the perfect melty cheese and it has a nutty richness that provides a depth of flavor,” Drewno explains.

Though eggs were originally sourced from a regional purveyor, the farm shut down, so they now come from several suppliers. Due to the bird flu that hit flocks at the beginning of last year, killing nearly 58 million birds, at the time of writing the price of eggs was more than double than when the eatery opened.

“It’s a challenge that we’ll work through and rebound from,” Drewno says. “Things like this happen to us all the time. If it’s not one thing, it’s another.”

Rather than simply griddling the eggs sunny-side up, they’re fried in brown butter, creating a crispy golden crust on the bottom.

“It’s the anti-French way,” Drewno jokes. “These are not soft-scrambled eggs.”

The core sandwich comes with a readyto-pop sunny side-up egg and fontina, with the option to add bacon or confit sausage, as well as bonus boosters such as avocado, Old Bay-laced mayo, house hot sauce and candied jalapeños based on a recipe Drewno learned from beloved local cookbook author Cathy Barrow. The menu also features a BLT; toast slathered with whipped cream cheese and apricot pepper jelly (another recipe inspired by Barrow); and a bagel-inspired toast with cream cheese, lox, daubs of whipped deviled eggs, chopped egg whites, capers and red onion slivers.

Every weekend, the eatery sells 250 to 300 sandwiches to take-out and delivery customers, many clamoring for the popup to go brick and mortar. This spring, those customers will get their wish when an expanded version of I Egg You opens in a permanent home at 517 8th Street in Southeast, next door to Matchbox. The breakfast options will grow, a new lunch menu of sandwiches and salads will be added and there will be a full bar serving seemingly every brunch-y cocktail imaginable, including micheladas, Irish coffee, bellinis and Pimm’s Cups. At night, it will become an event space.

This won’t be the last restaurant you see from The Fried Rice Collective. It’s just the beginning.

“I worked for somebody else for 16 years of my life,” says Drewno, nodding to his tenure working for Wolfgang Puck. “I feel a little bit like a caged animal. I have a bunch of concepts and ideas I want to do.”

Whatever The Fried Rice Collective hatches next, it’s sure to be egg-ceptional.

I Egg You: 423 8th St. SE, DC ieggyou.com // @ieggyou

Different Yolks

Check out our short list of more egg-cellent sandos to crack open your day.

CRACKED EGGERY

Say hello to The Mayor — packed with scrambled eggs, bacon boasting sweet heat and melted American and cheddar — or go bold with the two-patty burger with an optional-butobviously-necessary fried egg.

3420 Connecticut Ave. NW + 1921 8th St. NW, DC crackedeggery.com

@crackedeggery

SUNDAY MORNING

BAKEHOUSE

Presented on a buttery pillow of a brioche bun slathered with aioli, the indulgent breakfast ’wich features a mound of scrambled eggs, toothsome slabs of bacon and a capelet of Swiss cheese.

11869 Grand Park Ave. North Bethesda, MD

sundaymorningbakehouse.com

@sundaymorningbakehouse

YELLOW

For a Levantine-minded kickstart, get the Urfa-thing bagel with scrambled eggs, kashkaval cheese and zingy green tatbili relish, or a za’atar croissant slit open to contain a fried egg, swipe of labneh and smoked peppers.

1524 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC yellowthecafe.com

@yellowthecafe

KNEAD TO KNOW

WORDS BY NEVIN MARTELL

Whether you’re a sucker for sourdough, a doughnut diehard or a macaron maniac, these three bakers and their sweet spots have got you covered.

Capitol Jill Baking

Like so many others, Jill Nguyen went down the bread making rabbit hole during the lockdown, looking for a way to soothe herself while staying connected with her friends. It didn’t start well. The first sourdough starter she made Scarlett Doughansson — promptly died. Thankfully, the second, bearing the same name, not only survived, it thrived. So did her love of baking. By summer, she was dropping off loaves at friends’ homes. But by fall she started getting pushback.

“People would say, ‘Please stop giving us bread. We’re also stress baking,’” she remembers.

She decided to start selling excess sourdough loaves to her neighbors in Columbia Heights, donating the income to local nonprofits (she still donates a portion of what she earns to area causes). Soon, people were posting about it on the local listserv and social media.

“Suddenly, I became this bread person,” she says.

As the burgeoning baker was trying to think of a name for her new hustle, she was also in the process of buying a home with her partner on Capitol Hill, where she moved at the end of 2020. Texting friends about her new neighborhood, the phone autocorrected it to Capitol Jill. She thought it was cute and the name stuck.

After settling into her rowhouse and organizing the kitchen, Nguyen formalized her ordering process and started experimenting with other recipes to expand her repertoire. For her, the creative process is an almost Zen exercise.

“It’s really hard to get the perfect bite when you make something, because you have been simmering in the process,” she says. “My happiness comes from having other people have the perfect bite moment eating something I made. I’ll be forever chasing that perfect bite moment for myself.”

Now her ever-shifting menu includes toasted oat loaf, cranberry walnut sourdough and stout sourdough made with beer from Atlas Brew Works. There are babka buns laced with Nutella, bestselling Swedish cardamom buns and oversized brown-butter s’mores cookies. Other desserts — like tamarind caramel cream-filled doughnuts — take their cue from Vietnam, where she was born and raised.

Since opening her cottage bakery, her mailing list has swelled to 2,500 die-hard bread heads and pastry devotees, who snap up everything she offers when her weekly email goes out Sundays at noon. Before they arrive for pick-ups on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, she makes sure her kitchen is spotless so she can enjoy a glass of wine while talking to customers, saying hello to their kids and petting their dogs.

“This was always about community,” she says. “Yes, this my way of making a living. But it’s never been about money. The thing I get the most from this work is knowing my neighbors.”

Jill Nguyen of Capitol Jill Baking. Photo by Maria Helena Carey.

Three AAPI women bakers rising to the top of D.C.’s food scene

Chiboo Bakery

Chelsea Tan didn’t plan on becoming a professional baker. Born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, she moved to the States in 2013 to pursue a degree in finance at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. Upon graduating, she returned home and traveled around Asia for a couple of years, where she fell hard for the flavors that would one day shine in her pastries. Throughout it all, she was enraptured with the art of making French macarons, watching countless YouTube videos and using family and friends as her taste testers.

In March of 2020, Tan moved to the D.C. area, hunting for a job. The Covid-19 pandemic quashed that dream, but the lockdown gave her lots of time to bake in her Reston apartment kitchen.

“It was a way for me to seek comfort,” she says.

That November, she began selling on social media under the moniker Chiboo Bakery, riffing on her parents’ endearment for her based on her middle name, Chi. Though she sold several types of baked goods, she quickly became renowned for her charming macarons. Sometimes they celebrated Asian ingredients: pandan (an aromatic leaf with grassy-vanillacoconut notes), hōjicha (Japanese green tea) and salted egg yolk with pork floss. Other times, she slipped in more Western flavors: Fruity Pebbles, strawberry lemonade and salted caramel buttercream with apple butter.

Her treats weren’t always simple circles. Tan conjured macarons in darling shapes that popped on Instagram, such as tigers, gingerbread men, bumblebees, turkeys, mushrooms, bunnies and koi.

“The characters are a way to push my creative and artistic boundaries, as well as my technical capabilities,” she says. “They’re difficult to make, but they’re a lot of fun.”

In 2021, Tan decided to stop hunting for a white-collar job and became a full-time baker, selling her pastries online and at pop-ups, as well as catering bespoke orders. During warmer months, Tan runs a stall at the Bethesda Central Farm Market, where she likes to highlight seasonal fruit in her creations, such as persimmon jelly parfait and strawberry shortcake.

This spring, she is taking her efforts to the next level, opening a small brick-and-mortar shop in Herndon, where she will also host baking classes. Expect the pastry case to be brimming with macarons, tartlets, cookies, parfaits, entremets (dainty, mousse-rich cakes) and kuih (bite-size, just-a-touch-sweet Malaysian desserts).

Sunday Morning Bakehouse

Caroline Yi always loved to bake but thought of it more as a passion than a profession. But after attending the University of Maryland and dipping her toes in the white-collar waters, the Rockville native decided she might find more happiness in a kitchen than an office. As she considered the job jump, she would go to A Baked Joint to grab a biscuit sandwich and soak up the vibes.

“I loved the environment, the hustle bustle, the smell of coffee and baked goods,” she says. “It just looked like the kind of place where I wanted to spend my time.”

Wanting to be closer to the action, she got a job working the counter in 2016. In some ways, the front of the house seemed a mile away from the kitchen, but she still peeked in when she could.

“I was really intimidated by the bakers because they’re usually lost in their own thing and not really engaging with other stuff,” she says. “I would just watch them hand laminating croissants and making sourdough by hand.”

After a while, she worked up the nerve to bake croissants at home for the head baker to get his feedback. He had comments but was impressed. When a baker left a few weeks later, she was offered a position in the kitchen. Over the coming months, she applied herself diligently, worked hard and absorbed every lesson. She came up against one unexpected challenge: the innate warmth of her hands, which would melt the butter in the dough she was making. To overcome the issue, she soaked her hands in ice water until she couldn’t feel them anymore. Only then could she begin her work.

Once she felt confident in her commercial-level baking abilities, she went solo in the spring of 2017, setting up a stall at a Gaithersburg farmers market where she sold chocolate croissants, kouign-amann, cruffins rolled in cinnamon sugar and dog treats. The first week, she went home with half of what she baked. But after only a month, she started selling out. A long line became the norm. A year later, she upgraded to the farmers market at Pike & Rose and started looking for a home for a bakery. As luck would have it, a space opened at the Rockville development.

Sunday Morning Bakehouse debuted in October 2020. Though the pandemic shut it down only five months later, Yi’s determination and legions of devoted customers helped ensure the business didn’t fold. These days, it’s busier than ever.

Unless they’re sold out, you’ll always find brioche doughnuts in the case, including some glistening with cinnamon sugar and others plumped up with jelly, which now command a die-hard following.

“People would come after me with pitchforks if I ever got rid of it,” she jokes.

Other favorites include slender, sea-salted chocolate chunk cookies with crispy edges and chewy centers, almond croissants that flake into buttery confetti when you take a bite and artful loaves.

Though matcha makes regular appearances in Yi’s creations, and she has worked red bean and black sesame into limited edition pastries, Asian flavors don’t define her work.

“I’m a little protective of making sure we’re not misconstrued as an Asian bakery, because when you walk into an Asian bakery, there are certain pastries and breads people have come to expect,” Yi says. “I’m Korean, but I fell in love with French pastry and rustic California sourdough, so that’s what I’m trying to put out.”

The Sunday Morning Bakehouse story is still unfolding. Yi would like to open a couple more locations in the next two years. She is looking at spots in Northern Virginia around McLean and Tysons.

Capitol Jill Baking: capitoljillbaking.com // @capitoljillbaking

Chiboo Bakery: chiboobakery.com // @chiboobakery

Sunday Morning Bakehouse: 11869 Grand Park Ave. North Bethesda, MD; sundaymorningbakehouse.com // @sundaymorningbakehouse

DRINK

Moon Rabbit cocktail. Photo by Jennifer Chase.

Day Trip to Crooked Run Fermentation

Although they just opened a taproom at Union Market, the brewery’s Sterling location is worth the ride.

WORDS + PHOTO BY NICOLE SCHALLER

If you are looking for a new day trip destination, travel 40 minutes west of D.C. proper to Sterling, Virginia and imbibe, indulge and unwind with an ever-rotating list of entertainment at Crooked Run Fermentation.

The Beer

Sticky rice. Ube. Beet. What do they have in common? For Crooked Run Fermentation Brewmaster and Co-owner Jake Endres, they are the main flavor profiles for some of his most popular brewing creations. Endres’ ingenuity has put Crooked Run Fermentation on the map for quality beers with funky flavors.

“We’ve been brewing for a decade, on a fairly small scale in the greater terms of the beer world, which gives us the freedom and flexibility to experiment a lot,” Endres says. “If you name an ingredient, there’s a good chance we’ve brewed with it.”

Endres’ superpower is the ability to hone in on a flavor profile and have the beer taste like the ingredient without being gimmicky. Co-owner Leland Rogan — who partnered with Endres shortly after meeting and bonding over homebrewing — estimates they’ve made over 500 different types of beers.

“He’s gone after some weird stuff, and yet they all turn out great,” Rogan says. “Jake’s the guy who knows his flavors. I explain it as he’s more of the chef. He comes up with the recipes, and I am the baker that follows the recipe, pays attention to details and nails it.”

If something less adventurous is more your speed, their onsite taproom rotates 12 to 16 weekly options including traditional-style beers, from lagers to IPAs. In-house seltzers and natural wine are also available.

The Space

Endres and Rogan’s first brewery in Leesburg, Virginia opened in 2013 and became a neighborhood hotspot. While the 600 square-foot space served a cozy atmosphere, they needed to find a new location to continue growing the brewery component.

“We quickly realized we had something good going,” Rogan says. “After two years of funding, we opened the Sterling location in 2017.”

The Sterling spot now serves as the company’s headquarters and is a massive warehouse retrofit with a 10-barrel brewhouse for their production needs. Before moving, they could only brew three kegs in eight hours. Now they can produce 80 kegs of beer in 14 hours. They also have a barrel room for fermenting their natural wine.

But the brewery and winery is only a fraction of the space’s use. In a choose-your-own-adventure style, people can enter the warehouse either through the right-side doors, where they’ll find Crooked Run’s taproom and Señor Ramon Taqueria, or through the left-side doors, where they’ll see cocktail bar Nectar and brunch spot Daybreaker, plus a stage

ready for local bands. The two rooms are connected by a hallway allowing guests to meander and order from multiple spots in a food hall set-up. There is also an outdoor biergarten tricked out with fire pits and a back room for private events.

“The idea is to come in for brunch and mimosas, then you stay for beer and tacos,” Rogan says. “And then you stay for music and cocktails. We don’t want people to leave.”

Despite the sheer size of the space, Rogan — who has a construction background — made it a point to build the interior so it stills feels intimate and community-centered.

“Several people I know met at the Leesburg location and now have gotten married and have kids,” Rogan says. “It is a very poignant place for people, and we wanted to bring that same spirit here. We have an insulated ceiling to help with sound and to control temperature. We are always thinking of our customer experience.”

Rogan’s efforts and meticulous touches pay off. The overall vibe of the space evokes a neighborhood bar: locals and newcomers alike walking into a warm environment, greeted by welcoming staff, dark wood finishes and nostalgic indie rock music. Artwork created by one of the bartenders accompanies the names of beers on tap listed above the bar.

The Entertainment

Endres and Rogan are aware that Sterling is not normally a scenic stop, but they view it as a strength and what sets them apart from the saturated field of DMV-area breweries and wineries.

“You have to drive to be here,” Rogan says. “Our competition is with farm breweries that have views. They have the views, and the beer is second. You go there to be at the destination and then whatever they have on tap, they have. People come here for what we offer and then they are happy they are here.”

While their beer can stand alone as the reason for a trip, Endres and Rogan work with their event manager Nikole Busillo and brewery manager Abby Devlin to create a robust events calendar, including open mic nights, karaoke, live music, comedy shows, rap battles, yoga, EDM nights, anime meetups, trivia, bingo and cocktail making classes. Almost every day there is at least one event happening and they are always open to new ideas.

“Whatever gains traction, we just plan to do it again,” says Rogan, who notes that their drag brunches are so popular they get sold out weeks in advance.

Crooked Run Fermentation’s Sterling location makes it their mission to have an event for just about everyone. And to drink beer. Lots and lots of beer.

To learn more about Crooked Run Fermentation, including their new location at Union Market with Pizza Serata, and to view their events calendar, visit crookedrunfermentation.com. Follow them on Instagram @crookedrunfermentation.

Crooked Run Fermentation: 22455 Davis Dr. Sterling, VA

Moon Rabbit Brings Baijiu, Plus a Night Market, to The Wharf

WORDS BY TIM EBNER | PHOTO BY JENNIFER CHASE

When you walk into Moon Rabbit and pull up a chair at Thi Nguyen’s bar, you’re likely to hear a story about one of the many cocktails inspired by her homeland of Vietnam.

Take, for instance, the Ticket to Tây Nguyên. This is a bright pink cocktail that gets its color from pomegranate juice. The drink is an ode to Vietnam’s lush tropical forest — the Central Highlands region known for producing pomegranates. The first sip transports you there with bright, bold flavors.

Part of the secret to this cocktail is its primary spirit baijiu, distilled in China. Combined with curry leaf cordial, pom syrup, lime and bitters, you get a refreshing drink, especially when D.C.’s heat and humidity hit hard this summer.

“I wanted something you can sip, savor and enjoy, to experiment and reflect who I am,” Nguyen says. “This is also a drink that involved a bit of trial and error because baijiu is complex.”

She is working as a bartender alongside Chef Kevin Tien to make an experimental summer menu, pushing the boundaries of traditional Vietnamese fare. Together, they share their AAPI heritage at Moon Rabbit through food and drink, and beyond, in community outreach, engagement and events.

This includes a special celebration for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. From May 19-20, Tien will host a night market at The Wharf: the Everything, Everyone, All the Food at Once Fest. The sold-out event features acclaimed

talents of D.C.’s AAPI food community, including Erik BrunerYang (Maketto), Tim Ma (Lucky Danger), Victoria Lai (Ice Cream Jubilee), Julie Grant (Kaliwa), Patrice Cunningham (Tae-Gu Kimchi) Scott Chung (Bun’d Up and Sparrow Room) and Jerome Grant (Mahal BBQ), as well as live art performances and musicians.

“As a first-generation American, born in Louisiana, but who has also lived in Texas, Washington and California, I have this blended upbringing,” Tien says. “Being Vietnamese is [also] about blending many people and cultures together. Vietnam is such a big blend of so many folks. From French to Indian. It has Thai, Chinese and Cambodian influences, too.”

Nguyen credits her immigrant experience as a major influence in the drinks she makes behind the bar. She says she’s constantly thinking about the people and places who inspire her today.

“When you eat or drink [at Moon Rabbit], we’re not trying to be traditional Vietnamese,” Nguyen says. “I think what you get are a lot of the flavors. Everything is presented collaboratively. I really want our cocktail program to embody the same thing. I think people have a lot of perceptions when they go to their favorite Asian restaurant or Vietnamese restaurant. So we’re trying to do something a bit different and have some fun with it.”

Her bar menu is just one of the many pathways to talk about AAPI heritage, including the story of baijiu — a delightful spirit frequently produced by family-owned, small-batch producers.

What is Baijiu?

As a spirit, baijiu is so complex because it can be made from various ingredients, including fermented grains like sorghum, rice, wheat or barley. It has a sweet note and a fiery finish, running between 40-60% alcohol by volume.

It is also one of the most-consumed alcohols in the world, but somewhat difficult to find in Washington, D.C., unless you know where to look.

You can find it on the cocktail menu at Chang Chang in Dupont Circle or Reren Lamen & Bar in Chinatown. Nguyen also says baijiu is rapidly on the rise worldwide because it offers a range of expressions, from fruity and floral to umami flavors.

In the District, you can buy baijiu through direct-to-consumer alcohol services, local retailers like Schneider’s of Capitol Hill and wholesalers like Young Won Trading Inc., based in Maryland.

The bottle Nguyen uses is called Ming River, and it is an original Sichuan baijiu that uses traditional distilling methods passed down for over 20 generations. The process is extremely time intensive.

This baijiu is harvested from red sorghum grain and fermented in earthen pits with naturally harvested yeast cultures native to Luzhou, China.

After two months, the mash is unearthed and distilled in small batches using a traditional Chinese pot still. From there, the spirit is aged for two years before it’s batched and bottled.

On the first sip, there are floral notes, like a gin, then distinct peppery spice on the finish. But don’t confuse this clear drink with other spirits. Baijiu has incredible range, making it a versatile player in Nguyen’s cocktail repertoire. She recommends first tasting the spirit on its own to allow some of the intricate flavors to wash over and linger on your palate.

“This is a spirit that allows you to be really creative, and it’s why I like to use it on the menu at Moon Rabbit,” Nguyen says. “In the Ticket to Tây Nguyên, you

get something tropical, in the tiki style, for an easy and approachable drink.”

Community Engagement

Tien and Nguyen are not only collaborating on drinks at Moon Rabbit, they are also finding ways to talk about and advocate for the AAPI community, including events focused around food and drinks in D.C.

Tien has partnered with Chef Tim Ma for an initiative called Chefs Stopping AAPI Hate, which brings chefs from D.C. and around the country to host dinners, fundraising more than $500,000 for nonprofits that work to support the AAPI community.

It is work that comes as anti-Asian hate crimes are increasingly on the rise in the U.S., and when AAPI LGBTQ+ youth face an outsized risk of suicide. (Last year, a survey from The Trevor Project found 40% of AAPI LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered suicide.)

“Some of the events we’re doing in the future will focus on Asian mental health,” Tien says. “Because we know the suicide rate is really high within the Asian community. And we can normalize talking about our feelings, asking for help and speaking up against things like AAPI violence. A lot of Asian communities are insular, and we want to focus on community building.”

Nguyen is an active collaborator in this space. As part of the LGBTQ+ community in D.C., she participates in community building to support the AAPI community. This includes organizing a community conversation uniting several AAPI creatives on May 16 at Dacha Beer Garden in Shaw — an event free and open to the public.

“The idea is that we can bring people together to learn, collaborate and help break stigmas,” Nguyen says. “We are creating a space where we can highlight the incredible diversity of our community and explore all the creativity behind what we do.”

Don’t miss Tien’s Everything, Everyone, All the Food at Once Fest at The Wharf on May 19–20. Go to bit.ly/everything-everyone to learn more.

Moon Rabbit: 801 Wharf St. SW, DC moonrabbitdc.com // @moonrabbitdc

D.C. Bars to Support During AAPI Heritage Month

CHANG CHANG

At Chang Chang, the bar program was built around cocktails highlighting baijiu. One of the unique ways to try this spirit is in a drink called the Mr. Q Daiquiri. It calls for Ming River Baijiu mixed with Don Q Rum, Maraschino liqueur and grapefruit.

1200 19th St. NW, DC changchangdc.com // @changchangdc

DARU

Daru is a self-described “Indian-ish” restaurant and bar that takes inspiration from many categories of spirits. This includes a chai-based cocktail mixed with Old Port Deluxe Rum and the Board of Bengal — which calls for a single malt Indian whiskey, Benedictine, sweet vermouth, allspice, banana and black walnut.

1451 Maryland Ave. NE, DC darudc.com // @daru.dc

ROOSTER & OWL

Beverage Director Chris Sang pairs cocktails perfectly to this Michelinstarred menu. Those who fancy an espresso martini can try something new with his Red Eye From Tokyo. It’s a drink that calls for coffee-washed gin, Baileys, toasted sesame and cardamom.

2436 14th St. NW, DC roosterowl.com // @roosterandowl

SERVICE BAR

Recently named one of North America’s 50 Best Bars, this U Street bar is led by Christine Kim, featuring cocktails made in-house from hyperseasonal ingredients. Find classic cocktails from around the world here, including daiquiris, pisco punch and spicy palomas.

926 U St. NW, DC servicebardc.com // @servicebardc

MUSIC

Gene Melkisethian of Joint Custody. Photo by Farrah Skeiky.

WORDS BY COLLEEN KENNEDY

In September 2021, when the 9:30 Club officially reopened post-pandemic, the Foo Fighters (unsurprisingly) played a surprise sold-out show. But that wasn’t the biggest jaw dropper of the magical evening.

Alexandria’s own favorite son Dave Grohl made a huge announcement: The defunct venue next door (most recently the Satellite Room) was going to be reimagined as The Atlantis, a new version of the legendary OG 9:30 Club.

“Who remembers the old 9:30 Club?” Grohl asked. “That was our church. That’s where we got to see every f--king band. That’s where we all played first [in D.C.]. That’s where R.E.M. played first. That’s where the Chili Peppers played first. That’s where Nirvana played first. Magic happened in that room.”

And, just like magic, we all received word that the new old 9:30 Club was going to open on May 30 with 44 nights of amazing acts and tickets priced at $44 each in celebration of 9:30 Club’s 44th anniversary. The club made the announcement on the apropos date of April 4 (4/4, get it?).

Of course, the Foos would be invited to headline the opening night at The Atlantis (they also famously christened The Anthem in 2017 and have played numerous surprise concerts at the 9:30 Club over the years). But the full roster stands out as nothing less than stellar.

The lineup of phenomenal artists represents the venue’s deep past, present and future. That’s why we see old-school punk pioneers like Living Colour and X, but also new breakthrough successes, such as District Fray’s November cover star and D.C.-based fave Bartees Strange, who kicked off his first headlining tour at 9:30 Club last fall. Just as many of us head to the 9:30 Hall of Records before a show to trace the venue’s concert history, we can outline four decades of music, mayhem and memories all sketched out in The Atlantis’ performance schedule.

The Atlantis — named after the short-lived spot that preceded the original 9:30 Club on F Street — is the newest and smallest venue in the extended I.M.P. musicverse, with capacity for 450 music lovers.

And yes, size does matter.

Despite their incredibly different vibes, acts and concert histories, Lincoln Theatre and 9:30 Club both host up to 1,200 music goers, The Anthem can hold up to 6,000 concert fans and the massive Merriweather Post Pavilion can seat up to 18,000. The inaugural roster at The Atlantis is bringing some of the biggest acts back into a small venue.

For example, indie icon Ben Gibbard plays The Atlantis at the beginning of September for a crowd equivalent to three maxed-out Metro cars. At that range, you can hear every sullen sigh between verses, catch a thrown guitar pick, be as close to melancholy glory as possible. A few nights later, Gibbard’s two bands — Death Cab for Cutie and The Postal Service — will play at Merriweather for a crowd of up to 18,000, the equivalent of Georgetown University’s entire student body.

Replicating the small scale of the original 9:30 Club on F Street, concerts at The Atlantis become intimate, intense, immersive. There’s nothing between you and the music. For 44

nights, fans will be as close as they’ll perhaps ever be to Gary Clark Jr. or the Pixies or Jenny Lewis or Joan Jett.

But what comes after this grand opening is a focus on the future of music. Audrey Fix Schaefer, communications director for I.M.P., shares that the smaller space is essential for emerging artists, since their first step to establish themselves is playing in a well-known and vetted venue.

“We will be selecting artists that we think are going to have the chance to be a big thing down the line,” Fix Schaefer explains. Playing at The Atlantis, she continues, will “help them grow, develop their career in the greater Washingtonarea and create an industry history, a relationship with us for future shows in larger I.M.P. venues down the line.”

By the time this article is published, you’ll already know if you’re the Charlie Bucket who scored any shows during the venue’s anti-scalper golden-ticket lottery. There were over half a million entries for fewer than 20,000 tickets. In an upcoming article, we take a deeper dive into The Atlantis: What’s up next for the much-anticipated and high-stakes venue?

The ticket lottery for the first 44 shows closed on April 7, but The Atlantis will announce new artists and shows soon. Follow at theatlantis.com and on Instagram @theatlantis_dc.

The Atlantis: 2047 9th St. NW, DC

Happening this month:

THURSDAY, MAY 11

Paint + Sip

SATURDAY, MAY 20

Elena La Fulana Concert

Club’s original location inside the Atlantic Building. Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress.

Shirt Spotting with Joint Custody

WORDS + PHOTOS BY FARRAH SKEIKY

The popularity of vintage band tees is higher than ever — and so is the market for bootlegs. Whether you’re a fan of an ’80s and ’90s artist or just looking to stay on trend, there’s a good chance you’ve been sold a reprint that was marketed — and priced — as an original. With some help from Gene Melkisethian, co-owner of U Street record and vintage store Joint Custody, we’ve compiled the most important information you need to find the real thing.

Joint Custody has more than T-shirts. You can find sports jerseys, hats + even jackets, like this promotional Outkast one.

VINTAGE TEE SHOPPING 101

1. “Look right at the top of the neckline inside the shirt and see if there’s a tag,” says Melkisethian. Most shirts from the ’80s and ’90s have sewn-in tags, not tear-aways. If there’s a heat-pressed “tag” instead, it’s probably a reprint.

2. Single-stitched hems were common on shirts made before the early ‘90s. After that point, most shirts were double stitched. But there are exceptions.

3. The ink on ’80s shirts is screenprinted — you can feel it. Cracked ink is common on those. If the ink is as smooth as the fabric, it’s likely a bootleg (exception: white shirts).

4. Eighties shirts are thin; ’90s shirts are a bit thicker. Reprints from the early 2000s onwards are soft — too soft.

5. Sizing can be fickle. An ’80s large fits more like a ’90s medium. Melkisethian urges buyers to learn their measurements: “Find a shirt that fits from any era. Measure it across, under the armpits, and measure from the tag to the bottom.”

6. Small tears can be fixed, but dry rot is forever. A dry-rotted shirt will have a slight sheen, “caramel-y smell,” and dust. Pit stains are unavoidable in vintage tees. “At least they were wearing deodorant when they were wearing the shirt,” Melkisethian says.

7. For vintage rap and hip-hop shirts, sometimes vintage fan shirts are cooler than the official merch. These shirts are more commonly bootlegged. “You have to touch a couple real ones to get a feel for them,” Melkisethian says.

8. Always wash your shirts on the gentle cycle, cold, and hang dry. “It’s better for the planet and your shirts will last longer.”

9. “You should be buying shirts that you want. Even if you’re a dealer, you should be dealing in what you like.”

Learn more about Joint Custody at jointcustodydc.com and follow the record shop @jointcustodydc.

1530 U St. NW, DC

Joint Custody Co-Owner Gene Melkisethian holds an original Merauder band tee with employee + friend Jose Hernandez.

These original metal band shirts are full of green flags — cracked, raised ink, faded colors + the right stitching.

CULTURE

Rania Younis. Photo by Sherif Elboouhy.

CURATORS of STYLE

In a city as diverse and dynamic as the District, the style landscape is everchanging. To keep pace, we’re spotlighting the myriad voices redefining what it means to be stylish in the nation’s capital — from designers and stylists to entrepreneurs and athletes whose unique stories and perspectives shape bold visions.

Mindy Lam + Kai Sia of Mindy Lam Jewelry. Photo by Andrew J. Williams III.

Mindy Lam + Kai Sia

The mother-daughter team behind Mindy Lam Jewelry on what makes their bond unbreakable

WORDS BY MONICA ALFORD

PHOTOS BY ANDREW J. WILLIAMS III

Mindy Lam is a builder. The Chinese-American jewelry artist never sketches her designs in advance. She starts with a feeling — whether it’s avant-garde or romantic or rock ‘n’ roll — and creates a completely original work of art that only one person will ever own and wear.

The D.C.-based designer runs Mindy Lam Jewelry with daughter Kai Sia, who has always been by her mom’s side as her biggest cheerleader and now as a business-savvy entrepreneur. From wearing Lam’s skirts as full-length dresses at age 4 while helping sell her jewelry to donating her kidney to her mom and helping save her life through a transplant 10 years ago this month, Sia’s lifelong commitment to her mom and their business is remarkable.

The pair made a distinct name for themselves without aggressive marketing or taking a more commercial path. The quality of Lam’s creations is what keeps her in high demand, without pressure to deprioritize her artistry. You know a Mindy Lam lapel pin or brooch when you see one, and her loyal following is growing nationally. While Lam offers affordable price points in her Homme Collection, it’s the one-of-a-kind pieces featured in her Ethereal Collection, and even museum exhibits, that have become the linchpin of her success.

Lam and Sia are local style icons in their own right, refusing to adhere to prescribed notions around fashion — whether playing with androgynous looks, embracing asymmetry or bringing glam to every look with a Mindy Lam piece. But what truly makes this mother-daughter duo punk rock is their unbreakable bond. We spoke about what it takes to run a healthy family business, why D.C. is their safe haven and the importance of originality.

District Fray: How would you each describe your individual style?

Kai Sia: If my hair is not done correctly, I cannot step out of the house. I have these curls that bring my confidence up. If my hair is not tight, I wear a hat and I’m not Kai that day. Another part of my identity is my accessories. On the days I wear a suit, I have to have a Mindy Lam lapel pin. I feel naked when I’m wearing a suit without her jewelry. I find it to be armor, a confidence boost. People will naturally be drawn to come up and comment. It’s a great way to check people’s vibes because if they appreciate what I’m wearing, then I know I’m linking with the right people.

Mindy Lam: I grew up on a farm daydreaming a lot. My designing and creating world is really magical and whimsical. Sometimes I feel like being romantic, but other days I want to be funky. I’m very shy, but when it comes to design, I’m not shy at all. I just tell myself, “This is my uniform. This is not me. This is just that character I play for that event.” My style is whatever is in my brain. And I like vintage.

What are your sources of inspiration for shopping vintage or looking for statement pieces?

Sia: [Lam’s] influence is her environment. She likes to go back to ’80s and ’90s Hong Kong — pop stars, rock stars — when clothes were still couture and people cared about texture. That’s the reason she taught me to shop vintage. We shop vintage mostly in New York and Houston.

Lam: I like to build things. Even the corner of a building can give me inspiration. I love D.C. — the flowers, trees, cherry blossoms. I take advantage of the city’s nature and history.

Do you have a favorite vintage piece?

Sia: My favorite designer is Yohji Yamamoto. He made a bunch of blazers for women that were very, very different — more androgynous and less dull, everyday, boring suits. If Mom comes across a Yohji that fits me, it’s very likely that she will see if we can collect it. D.C. is so cut-and-dry sometimes that if you throw a really fun piece in, it brightens my day.

Why

has D.C. remained home base for the business?

Lam: I love the environment in D.C. I love the space. I love that I can be in a suburb and also in a city. They don’t call D.C. a fashion city, but if we’re great it doesn’t matter if it’s D.C. or Hong Kong or London. We can be who we are, and people will discover us. I never wanted to call myself a New York designer. I am really proud to say I’m a D.C. designer.

Sia: [Lam] did the New York thing when she was young, and now she doesn’t consider herself a fashion or jewelry designer. She considers herself an artist. There’s no reason to live in a busy city that will cloud your mind. She needs the tranquility that D.C. can provide. There’s not a lot of cities that can provide that. When she was a kid on a farm, she pretended she was a princess to get through rough times. She would feed chickens and see little rats, little snakes, little pigs. She never

saw a snake as bad or a caterpillar as gross. She saw them as her little friends, and now you see them in her jewelry. They’re all beautified because they’re part of nature.

How have you maintained a close working relationship with healthy boundaries?

Sia: I have to compliment my mother. She’s always had an open mind and told me to be myself. She never saw something wrong with me being gay. She loves me how a mother loves, which is unconditionally. Is she a tough mom? Yes. But I’m stronger for it. One thing I praise my mom for, especially being Asian-American, is her willingness to grow and change and try things out. I went to therapy to focus on becoming a better communicator and asked Mom to participate. We learned how to communicate and set boundaries. There are times I need her to be my mother and there are times I need her to be my boss. If you’re going into a family business, go to therapy first because it will change your whole family dynamic.

What does the future hold for you as a mother-daughter team? Will you continue to run the business together?

Sia: Everyone who has a conventional job, they’re working for someone else’s goal. When I go to work, my goal is to make my family name and legacy bigger and prouder. I’m working for my family’s reputation. When I see people who have collected her pieces, I can recognize them from 20 years ago. If you go to Texas or Seattle and you see her work on someone, you know it’s Mindy Lam because there’s only one of her. It’s so distinctive, and that’s why I’m proud to work with her.

Lam: Would you like a raise?

Sia: I would love a raise [laughs].

Lam: To see her at 16, when she first started helping me, until now — she’s been really interested in building the company. I see a bright future for her. Family businesses usually turn sour if someone feels forced. But every day she calls and says, “This is what I’m going to do.” I feel really proud.

Sia: If I’m a dapper, stylish person, when I visit D.C., I need to get a custom-made Mindy Lam lapel pin for myself. I want that to be a tradition. You know how you go to Texas and eat barbecue? You go to D.C. and get a custom Mindy Lam piece.

I love that you just compared eating Texas barbecue to buying one of your mom’s custom pieces [group laughs].

Sia: I love food. Our hobby is eating.

Learn more about Mindy Lam Jewelry at mindylamcouture.com. Follow Lam and Sia on Instagram @mindylamjewelry and @pyro.kai.

Ron David

Creative director and fashion designer dresses

D.C. bold and bright

WORDS BY LAURA SILVERMAN

PHOTO BY FARRAH SKEIKY

The first time I stumbled upon Ron David, I’m with District Fray Editor-in-Chief (and my own personal fashion icon) Monica Alford. Meandering around the streets of Union Market District, I spot bold pops of color through a new storefront and pull Alford inside. Ron David, the effusive owner and designer behind the eponymous Ron David Studio, happens to be there and welcomes us with such graciousness, I can’t believe he’s the creator of all these stunning designs.

Some months later, I return to Ron David’s shop on a sunny Monday morning to chat with him about style (his own and D.C.’s) and the future of fashion. Not only is multi-hyphenate Ron David a fashion designer, he’s also a successful D.C. realtor with Compass Real Estate.

“These are just my offerings to the world,” he tells me matter-of-factly.

That may be true, but I would argue Ron David’s spirit, which shines through his infectious smile, is his true offering.

Read on to learn more about his designs, his inspiration and what we can expect from fashion in D.C.

District Fray: Where are you from? What’s your connection to D.C.?

Ron David: I’m from Cleveland, Ohio and moved to the D.C. area in May 2009 to attend Howard University. I wanted to live in a major city and attend an HBCU, and Howard University was one of the top two. My experience there really shaped and grounded my fashion and style.

How would you describe your style? What’s your favorite piece you’ve ever designed?

Since I was young, I have always loved and have been interested in fashion. My personal style would be described as easy to wear, with impact. I love pieces that are comfortable yet pack a punch. One of my favorite pieces of my men’s collection would be my Deep Purple Nylon Puffer Kimono. I love to wear it, and it works beautifully on both men and women.

What or who inspired you to open your own studio?

My favorite store ever is The Webster in Miami. When I walked in the first time, I was in love with the artful and creative experience that lent to a new interpretation of luxury shopping. It was almost like experiencing fashion in one’s living room. It was dynamic and it changed my entire idea of what I would envision for a retail space.

If you could have anyone walk the runway wearing your designs, who would you choose?

Kendall Jenner, Tyra Banks and Naomi Campbell.

How would you describe D.C.’s style?

D.C. style is more dynamic than what people may think. People from D.C. are well traveled and really enjoy expressing themselves through fashion and style. At my studio, people all the time express how they were waiting for a store and shopping experience like mine here in D.C. , and they are so thrilled that we are [here]. They love the collections.

Any local style icons?

There are so, so many really cool people in D.C. One of my favorite D.C. style icons is Desirée Venn Frederic — an icon. She’s come off the scene recently, but everyone should look her up. She is it. Hands down, some of the coolest, effortlessly dressed men in D.C. are Norman Bowler, Tamon George and Gary Williams.

Which local designers do you wear when you’re not wearing your own?

I love The Museum’s clothing. I have many, many pieces from them. I am also obsessed with Chris Pyrate — amazing items.

Does D.C. gravitate toward individual designers or mass-produced fashion?

My experience is that people gravitate towards unique items. Most larger brands are here in Washington. Since I’ve opened my Union Market store, we hear all the time how people have been searching for a store that was unique, dynamic and fashion forward, with accessible price points. This is what I believe was the answer to D.C.’s shopping woes. People definitely lean towards exclusivity, which highlights local and individual designers that suit one’s taste.

What is the future of fashion in D.C.? More sustainable? More experimental?

I believe as the city transforms and as the world becomes more accessible, people will find what speaks to them. I am excited to be an outlet for fashion enthusiasts here in Washington and a space that breeds creativity, freedom and expression through elegance and fashion and decor.

Keep up with Ron David’s many pursuits on Instagram @mr.rondavid.

Ron David Studio: 1262 5th St. NE, DC rondavidstudio.com // @rondavidstudio

Vina Sananikone

Photographer and graphic designer talks function and form

WORDS BY M.K. KOSZYCKI PHOTO BY VINA SANANIKONE

In addition to serving as the creative content specialist for TAA PR and handling art and social media for the perennially hip Maketto, Vina Sananikone boasts a dynamic style all her own that builds on her time in restaurants and her experience as a photographer. She talks District Fray through her sentimental accessories, ever-evolving wardrobe and love of pockets.

District Fray: Describe your personal style in three words.

Vina Sananikone: Must have pockets.

Do you have a signature piece you wear often that feels integral to your look? If so, what is this piece and the story behind why it’s important to you?

The necklace I wear the most often is just a simple gold chain, and it has a little coin with a “V” stamp on it. And [the chain] has my parents’ original wedding rings. They got married in Hawaii. They have other wedding rings now, but these are braided gold. They weren’t wearing them because they’re

older, they don’t fit anymore and they didn’t want them to break. So, I just wear them on a little chain around my neck. I have one silver ring my parents got me from the Grand Canyon at a little shop. It’s one of those things that if I don’t wear it, it’s very weird. Other than that, I tend to wear a lot of dresses if I’m not wearing overalls or a onesie. I wear a lot of white dresses just for the hell of it. I’m actually pretty good at not spilling things on myself. But at the end of the day, if I do spill something, it’s just clothing.

What’s something unexpected that has had a positive impact on your style?

This is expected, but it truly is the restaurant industry. You know how you go through breakfast trends and eat oatmeal every day for a year? It’s the same thing with clothing. All I wore was jeans and a sweater and maybe a scarf for a long time. I don’t even think I owned trousers. And then I just wore dresses all the time; my go-to was a dress, a cardigan and boots. Now it is kind of a mix in between functional versus form — my style is dictated by whatever is happening that day.

How does your style find its way into your work? How do you use your medium to express yourself?

TAA PR is so style-forward and so cool. And the brands and restaurants we represent are also amazing fashionable people, and the coolest people in D.C. So, I remember being very nervous about it and telling Aba [Kwawu, TAA PR president], “You’ve seen what I wear, right? I don’t have Chanel!” But she told me everything I wear is fine, so it’s kind of fun to wear my personal style because it does reflect whatever I’m doing in terms of work and events.

Follow Sananikone on Instagram @vinasana for the latest and check out her work at vinasana.com.

Ariel Atkins

How the Mystics guard's personality shines through fashion

WORDS BY CHAD KINSMAN

Is there a better name for a basketball player than Ariel?

Sound it out if you need, but know that Ariel Atkins is a consummate baller. The Washington Mystics drafted the 5-foot-8-inch guard out of Texas with the seventh pick in 2018. Since then, she’s racked up wins on multiple continents, including Europe, Asia and Australia, on her way to an Olympic gold medal, two WNBA All-Star selections and a 2019 WNBA championship. As if that wasn’t enough, her own clothing line, designed right here in the heart of D.C., is just taking off. We caught up with Atkins to talk her idea of style and how that translates to her own brand.

District Fray: How do you define “style”?

Ariel Atkins: Style is 100% personal. The biggest thing is to allow yourself to feel what you’re wearing and not be afraid to let your personality speak through your clothing.

What does your style say about you?

My style can really range from sporty chic to business-y, from minimal to more fun. I’m definitely a neutral-palette type of person, but I’m learning that my “neutral” can be colors as well. I wore a powder-blue cropped blazer at the Final Four weekend.

What’s the story behind your brand?

I always wanted to look up into the stands and see my own gear. And honestly, there hasn’t always been access to WNBA jerseys. They’re expensive as well. If you don’t want to buy the $100 jersey, but you want to support one of your favorite players, support women’s basketball. I have different price tags for different shirts, depending on what quality you buy. They're all good quality, but some of it is great quality.

What’s your design process like?

It’s really just me, drawing away on my iPad, figuring out how to incorporate things that are important to my basketball storyline and how to get them across to the world.

How has D.C. influenced your style?

I’ve never really been in a place with a winter before I stayed in D.C. That was the first time I was keen on playing with different layers and textures. Can I put this blazer under a trench? Can I put this larger jacket over a tighter denim? And literally just walking around D.C. and seeing how people might wear the same clothes differently.

You literally wear a uniform to work. How do you make it yours?

I wear tights because my legs get cold and an undershirt to keep my posture in check. They also work towards my style because I do the “covered up” look. The biggest thing is choosing what shoes I wear. Sometimes I want to be simple, low-key, match-my-uniform. Other times, I’m like, “I’m feeling fluorescent today,” so highlighter-green shoes or pink KDs. And there’s no specific reason — just how I’m feeling.

What’s next for you and your brand?

I have some really cool stuff in the works, like working with other designers and adding more flair. And this season, with me growing into the person that I want to be, you’ll see a more confident style coming from me.

Check out Atkins’ new collection at arielatkins.net and follow her on Instagram @iamarielatkins.

Photo by Stephen Gosling.

Katsuya Fukushima

Daikaya Group owner adds personal flair, in and out of the kitchen

WORDS BY CHAD KINSMAN

PHOTOS BY VINA SANANIKONE

Katsuya Fukushima is not short on ideas. A pioneer of molecular gastronomy, he once tried to make gum out of steak. He dreams of running an eggs-only restaurant. His conversation dashes between food, fashion, history, ingredients and pop culture with playful ease. He has a sly and subversive streak, for sure, but Fukushima is also profoundly interested in the intrinsic possibilities of things. Nature, tradition and iconoclasm sit at the same table. He’s debonair to boot.

After sharpening his skills working with José Andrés at spots like Oyamel and Jaleo, Fukushima has become District ramen royalty. He and his partners operate Daikaya, D.C.’s first restaurant to sling Sapporo-style ramen; Bantam King for fried chicken; Hawaiian-inspired Hatoba; and Tonari, a wafu-Italian spot. Now, the venturesome chef is preparing for a wafu-Mexican popup at Haikan, his outpost in Shaw’s Atlantic Plumbing building.

We caught up with Fukushima to talk about how his style, in all its capacities, affects his many ventures.

District Fray: How do you describe your style?

Katsuya Fukushima: The first thing is comfort. I want to be comfortable. I also like everything classic. I also love things that make a splash, a statement. I made a Levi’s jean jacket with rose patches everywhere. I love baseball hats, and I have a good collection of Stetsons. And my newest thing is pearls: pearl earrings, pearl necklaces. And Adidas. On my dream list is a kitchen-shoe collaboration with Adidas.

How about your style in food?

That’s changed over the years. Now it’s very simple. I like simplicity and the natural way of things. Put food on the plate and let things flow wherever they go. A piece of steak should stay the shape it is; I’m not going to try to make it look like something it’s not. I already did that.

How has your personal style shown up in Daikaya Group restaurants?

Bantam King is the one I had the most influence in styling. The location used to be a Burger King, so we kept the “BK” and the fast-food tables. We kept the trays but put them on the wall as artwork. It’s just a fun, comfortable place.

What are the hallmarks of Sapporo-style ramen?

Sapporo is probably the closest to original Chinese ramen, because ramen came from China. There’s a wok element,

so you get a char on the onion and the bean sprouts and the ground pork. That aroma works its way into the broth. There’s also the tare, which is the flavoring agent. It could be miso, shio, shoyu. In Sapporo, miso ramen is king. Some places will sauté the miso in the wok, so even that gets the smoky flavor. It’s incredible. It’s also a meal. Tokyo ramen is more like a snack after a night out. You eat Sapporo-style and you’re done.

What does “wafu” mean?

“Wafu” means “Japanese style.” The Japanese love taking things and doing their version of it. But respect is also a big thing. They want to do things correctly, so to speak. They really study. If you go to Japan, they have these incredible Italian places. The pizza I had in Tokyo and Kyoto was better than any pizza I’ve had in the States.

A lot of your food sits at cultural intersections. What has that shown you?

When I worked with José [Andrés] to open Oyamel, we went to Mexico for three weeks. He sent me to Spain twice a year when we were opening different Jaleos. It wasn’t just, “Flip through a cookbook.” It was, “Get there and taste things and see things and experience things.” So, the longer I cook, the more overlap I see. There needs to be a book — I’d take it on, but I can’t — with maps and lines of ships and the Silk Road, showing where spices and things are coming from and where they went. Look at tacos al pastor. It’s like shawarma from Lebanon.

What can you share about the wafu-Mexican popup coming to Haikan?

It’s coming together. I have a notebook of quick sketches and a bunch of notes. Tacos. Tortillas with Japanese flavorings. Shishito peppers. It’ll be fun. I don’t want to force things too much. I want to let things happen.

Keep up to date with Fukushima’s newest ventures on Instagram @katsuya_fukushima.

Bantam King: 501 G St. NW, DC; bantamking.com // @bantamkingdc

Daikaya: 705 6th St. NW, DC; daikaya.com // @daikaya_ramen

Haikan: 805 V St. NW, DC; haikandc.com // @haikandc

Hatoba: 300 Tingey St. SE, DC; hatobadc.com // @hatobadc

Tonari: 707 6th St. NW, DC; tonaridc.com // @tonaridc

Casey Rowe

Custom menswear designer on how he built a name in the fashion industry

BY ANDREW J. WILLIAMS III

At 23 years old, Casey Rowe is already a respected voice in high-fashion spaces. As a partner at Christopher Schafer Clothier, he dresses celebrities, trailblazers, military generals and titans of industry. Though, Rowe’s journey is anything but traditional. After a major injury derailed his athletic career in high school, upending his college plans, he eschewed higher education for an unpaid internship with an up-and-coming custom suit tailor in Baltimore. Now, he’s charged with guiding the brand’s second location in D.C.’s eclectic and iconic Adams Morgan neighborhood. We caught up with Rowe to discuss his career in tailoring, including Christopher Schafer’s nonprofit side, and finding a career that fits.

District Fray: What inspired you to pursue a career in suit tailoring?

Casey Rowe: I really love art: painting, drawing, interior design and putting things together. I was in a fashion and textile program in high school that was two years long — one of the only ones left in the country. It was very extensive; I did a fashion show towards the end of my career there. A girl walked up to me after the show and said, “Do you have any plans to pursue this? You should call this guy — his name is Christopher Schafer. He works down in Baltimore. I think you’d be really good at this.”

What was your first impression of Christopher Schafer’s shop?

The second I walked in, I fell in love. I remember the shop like it was yesterday: the loft space, the plants, the well-dressed mannequins, the bolts of fabric. My eyes got so big. I did my interview and was told, “Why don’t you show up on this date, at this time, at this place and we’ll go from there.” The place I was told to show up at was Sharp Dressed Man, our nonprofit. We dress guys for interviews for free. It’s a really beautiful environment. You’re meeting guys who are down on their luck. That taught me what well-tailored, well-designed clothing can do for somebody. That [transitioned] into my interning at Christopher Shafer Clothier. I worked for free, and I wore my Jos. A. Bank suit, which was my brother’s and two sizes too big. I showed up early every day I was told to be there. I shut my mouth, took notes and assembled a notebook that I still carry with me to this day.

What other lessons about the industry did you learn in those early days?

I was working with people who were powerhouses in their industry. I had to learn from a young age how to talk to these people, how to interact with them and how to blow someone away — customer service at the highest level. I took that role very seriously. I needed to make it my college experience. It was a grind the first year. There were a lot of people above me killing it. I got to learn from them what to do, and I got to learn a lot of what not to do. [Eventually] it was just Chris and me. At 19 years old, about to turn 20, I was thrown into running a $3,500 custom suit shop.

Did you embrace the weight of that responsibility? The part I really grabbed onto and made my [own] was the design process: the two and a half hours I get to spend with somebody and walk them through everything that goes into what we do. I learned from somebody who learned how to make clothes on Savile Row in London at the Mecca of menswear. I’m not a well-traveled person. I really had to figure out what my niche was. It was the [art] of breaking down a garment, [and] explaining to somebody how a garment is built: what goes into it, why it is priced accordingly. If you walk into a department store, you’re not going to get that. It’s a very transactional experience. I like to think [a tailored suit] is an heirloom.

How important is individual style to the tailoring process?

Everybody’s personal style is different. I would never put something on somebody that is not intuitive. I’ve worked with plenty of people in the past who have very unique styles that suits don’t fit into. I don’t think the only form of high dress for men is a suit. But do I think every man should have a welltailored suit in his wardrobe? Absolutely.

Check out Rowe’s many suit styles on Instagram @casey.rowe.

Christopher Schafer Clothier: 1794 Columbia Rd. #6, NW, DC christopherschafer.com // @christopherschafer

WORDS + PHOTO

Ean Williams

WORDS BY HALEY MCKEY

Ean Williams got his start in fashion during his time in the military.

“While stationed in Italy, I grew to love the fashion there, and I started modeling on the local market and produced a fashion show right on base,” he recalls.

Eventually, Williams made his way to the DMV, where he broke into the modeling scene — also teaching students and putting on their graduation shows — before going on to start his own line, Corjor International, named for his kids, Cory and Jordan.

In 2004, Williams founded DC Fashion Week. Nearly two decades in, DC Fashion Week features emerging local designers and a showcase of international couture collections

— and Williams has earned a name for himself as a bona fide D.C. fashion icon.

District Fray sat down with Williams to learn about how he got started, where D.C. fashion is going and what trends he’s seeing for summer.

District Fray: How would you describe your personal style?

Ean Williams: I like to do high-low. I may have a suit from a local custom designer, a shirt from Zara. I don’t skimp on shoes and belts though — they have to last. That’s what I tell clients: Invest in your shoes and purses.

What inspires your fashion line?

I’m a ’60s baby, so I’m very attracted to that era. For women’s wear, I always think about a wedding day. For most women, their wedding dress is their only custom look. I wanted to reimagine that experience for any special occasion, whether you’re going back for your high school reunion, you have a special date or you’re just doing it for yourself. The first thing I do to create cohesiveness for a new collection is draw up a common color palette. Lately, I’ve been really in love with pink and rose gold for both men and women. Or I’ll pick a texture, like lace or shimmer. But the most important thing is that I want it to look like luxury. I consider myself a red carpet designer. That said, I introduced a streetwear collection last year and it was met with pretty good success. It’s different, because streetwear is really hot one year and the next, it’s completely abandoned.

Is D.C. getting more stylish?

It depends on what you’re involved in. D.C.’s focus is tourism and politics, which require a different kind of wardrobe. But all the big names, particularly the Fortune 500 of fashion — the Chanel, the Dior, the Valentino — you’ll see all of them here, and they’re selling. Maybe tourists are buying them, but Washingtonians are buying them too or they wouldn’t be here. I would say we’ve been stylish for quite a while in D.C., but now we have more publications covering it, more stores, more events, more social media sharing. It’s more visible.

What local trends do you predict for men’s fashion this summer?

You’ll see a lot of vibrant color, and the palette won’t just be for one gender. That’ll be the big difference. You’ll see men wearing pastels and clothing not traditionally reserved for men. And different cuts — business suits will have a little more flair.

Is the city supportive of the fashion sector?

We’re super excited about the 202Creates initiative. D.C. is becoming a city where designers, makeup artists and other creatives can provide for themselves. It’s great that we have a city that can support the creative economy, and an administration that recognizes it. The nation’s capital has the potential to be in the Olympics of city fashion weeks.

To learn more about DC Fashion Week, visit dcfashionweek.org. Tickets for DC Fashion Week, held twice a year in February and September, go on sale on June 1. Follow Williams on Instagram at @mr_dcfashionweek.

DC Fashion Week founder and executive director on putting District style on the map

Monté Morris

Wizards point guard on wearing what you feel

WORDS BY CHAD KINSMAN

Whether running offense as the Wizards’ point guard or putting together a look for the pre-game arrival, Monté Morris has it handled. Drafted in the second round by the Denver Nuggets in 2017, Morris joined the Wizards in July 2022. The move reunited him with childhood friend Kyle Kuzma. The two played together in Flint, Michigan before taking different paths to the NBA. A consistent shooter and deft passer, Morris earned the nickname Big Game Tae in college at Iowa State for his clutch performances. Now he’s bringing the same cool, calm execution to his style game, including releasing his own clothing brand. We caught up with Morris to talk about what guides his personal style and the meaning behind his new clothing line.

District Fray: How do you think about style?

Monté Morris: How a person dresses tells you a lot about them, like how they conduct themselves and how they want to help people get a good outlook on themselves.

How do you describe your own style?

I’m known for a diverse style. I’ll wear turtlenecks and suits, and then make joggers look nice. Bigger jeans, smaller jeans, big tees, smaller tees. I’m not really set in stone, like, “This is my look and how I wear it.”

Any particulars colors you gravitate towards?

I really like black and silver.

People talk about developing a personal uniform, but you wear an actual uniform at work. How do you personalize that?

I wear my arm sleeve and tights, which bring my own flair. I’ve been wearing that swag since college. I’m comfortable in them.

Shoes?

We’re in the era where we don’t have to match from head to toe, so I can go off-uniform with some bright shoes or darker shoes in a bunch of different colors. I wear whatever I’m feeling.

Why do you think style is important to so many players?

There are more and more eyes on how guys are dressing when they arrive at games. Outlets pick it up, social media, so you gotta wear some swag.

What’s your pre-game prep like?

I just try to be unique. I put stuff together in my head before

a nap. I know what’s in my closet, so I’m just mixing and matching. Then I wake up and see how I’m feeling, what it’s like outside. I’m not trying to brag, but everything I put right on right now is kinda cool.

I believe you. So, I’m going to ask, how can I improve my style?

Honestly, you have to just feel it. You have to know your lane, know your swag. Don’t try to wear something because it’s trendy. Wear it because you feel it.

Tell me about your clothing line, Locked In.

We’ve been trying to make it happen for a long time, since I’ve been in the league. Locked In doesn’t have to be basketball related. You can be locked in anywhere. It’s more about blocking out distractions and focusing on the task at hand. That’s big for me. When I put out merch, there’s meaning behind it.

Check out Morris’ clothing line at montemorris.com and follow him on Instagram @biggametae.

Photo courtesy of the Washington Wizards.

Rania Younis

Stylist and model on the art of looking fabulous

WORDS BY HALEY MCKEY

Rania Younis is a multidimensional fashion maven. She styled Lana Rae for this month’s cover story and offers her collection of hand-picked luxury pieces by designers from around the world. We spoke to the Maryland-based stylist about how she got started, her process and summer trends for D.C.

District Fray: Tell me about yourself. How did you get interested in fashion?

Rania Younis: I do everything — modeling, styling and cooking. I started my career as a model, then began working as a stylist. I’m also a model coach for an agency, helping new models learn to walk the runway and pose for shoots. Modeling gave me a lot of experience and exposure to fashion. I’ve worked for many different designers at New York Fashion Week, and I’ve done both styling and modeling for DC Fashion Week. When you’re modeling, you get to try everything. It’s amazing to see so much fashion. That was what made me want to be a stylist and start my own brand.

Tell me about Shop the Runway, your curated collection of designer pieces.

I started Shop the Runway two years ago. I work with a lot of international designers — Italian, Egyptian, Chinese and I choose pieces from around the world. I have an amazing collection coming for summer from several designers — dresses, swimwear, jewelry. In July, my business was featured in an ad in Times Square — a dream come true. My dream is for Shop the Runway to be known internationally.

How do you work with someone when you’re styling them?

I create a vision. Many people reach out to me saying, “Rania, I need something special.” Whether it’s for the cover of a magazine, TV or a fashion shoot, they come to me for something unique. I have a jacket covered in real teddy bears in my collection, bright red pants that end in a pair of stiletto boots. Clients send me their ideas, I show them my collection and we do it together, choosing pieces to create the perfect look. I say, “Let’s go with something boom.” I help them choose everything — the clothes, the shoes, the accessories, swimwear. They can get the full look from the collection. Whenever I see a woman now, I want to style her. I’m like, “Ooh, I can do something here.”

How would you describe your personal style?

I love something crazy and different. Bright colors, big boots, oversized pants. Clothes that make a statement. Big accessories, too. But most of the time, I’m casual — I wear a lot of black.

What trends do you see for summer in D.C.?

Lots of brights, like fuschia, red and green. And classic black and white, of course.

What’s the most important thing you need to be a good stylist?

Trust is very important. If you’re good at your work, everyone can trust you to make them look good.

See what Younis is up to by following her on Instagram @raniaayouniss. Check out Shop the Runway at @shop.therunway.

Nicholas Stefanelli

Le Clou chef talks ever-evolving style

WORDS BY CHAD KINSMAN

Whether it’s a suit jacket or a side of beef, Nicholas Stefanelli knows a good cut when he sees one. A native Marylander and graduate of L’Academie de Cuisine, the stylish chef heads some of the District’s most refined restaurants, praised for their elevated cuisine, curated wine lists and sumptuous interiors.

Masseria, a Michelin-starred homage to rustic Italian cooking, opened in 2015 near Union Market. Its younger sibling Officina houses a trattoria, café and market over three floors at The Wharf. In 2022, Stefanelli opened Philotimo downtown, honoring his Greek roots. Now, he’s opening three new spots in NoMa’s swank Morrow Hotel: Le Clou, a chic modern brasserie; Vesper, an intimate lounge clad in blacks and blues; and Upstairs, a breezy rooftop bar with views of the Capitol. We caught up with Stefanelli to talk style in and out of the kitchen.

District Fray: You set out to study fashion in Italy, yes?

Nick Stefanelli: When I got out of high school and was trying to figure out what I was going to do with my life, fashion was something I was drawn to. I worked for a master tailor for two and a half years. I thought I was going to go into men’s fashion. I started exploring options of studying overseas. That’s when I discovered food and fell in love in hospitality. I came back, enrolled in culinary school and then started cooking. I haven’t looked back.

Do you see similarities between fashion and food?

There are definitely touch points we try to bring into our restaurants, like in napkin details or the fabrics we use. Some companies do tabletop pieces. I’m a big fan of Versace’s plate ware. It’s all over Masseria.

What goes into creating a restaurant?

It’s always fun because we’re dealt this box, [the physical space,] and then we have to figure out how to make everything fit inside. I use a lot of tracing paper to draw and redraw plans. Then we start going through with mood boards and the fabrics and the paints and the wood and the tile, bringing in the management side of it. Also working with the chef de cuisine on the menu. We have a really strong team. I give the overarching structure in the beginning, but they have a lot of runway to play and be creative. After a restaurant opens, you’re still tweaking, changing details. All of my restaurants have gone through cycles of maturing and evolving.

Any common elements between your restaurants?

All our kitchens are open, but all their aesthetics are really different. They all have their own souls and identities.

I love Vesper’s luxurious, moody look. Where did that come from?

The inspiration is the Miu Miu store in Porto Cervo [on Sardinia]. I saw it five years ago. It was all baby blues and mirrors, a stunning visual from the outside. We have a baby grand piano coming in for live music and a serious cocktail program. It’s going to be a lot of things.

What’s style like in your kitchens?

We tend to keep it a little more classic, white chef’s jackets and aprons. I went to Catholic school, so I grew up in a uniform.

Any accessories you wouldn’t be without?

I take a spoon I’ve had since I worked at the Ritz Carlton everywhere. It’s around 16 years old. I’m afraid it’s going to get a hole in it.

What’s the story behind the Sicilian saying on the menu at Masseria?

I was reading this small book on the history of pizza and pasta. It was all in Italian. But this proverb was in that book: “Dress to satisfy others, but eat to satisfy yourself.” I thought that was so true. You’re not seeing yourself in your clothes. You’re putting them on for other people. But when you’re eating, you’re eating for yourself.

Learn more about Stefanelli’s concepts within The Morrow Hotel — Le Clou, Upstairs and Vesper — at themorrowhotel.com. Follow him on Instagram @nickstefanelli.

Masseria: 1340 4th St. NE, DC; masseria-dc.com // @masseriadc

The Morrow Hotel: 222 M St. NE, DC; @themorrowhotel

Officina: 1120 Maine Ave. SW, DC + 1615 L St. NW, DC; officinadc.com // @officinadc

Philotimo: 1100 15th St. NW, DC; philotimodc.com // @philotimodc (currently under renovations)

PHOTO BY VINA SANANIKONE

Corey Kispert

Wizards sharpshooter talks style on and off the court

WORDS BY CHAD KINSMAN

On the court, Corey Kispert cuts a nice figure. A college star at Gonzaga, the versatile 6-foot-6-inch forward has been growing into a stalwart for the Wizards, who selected him 15th overall in the 2021 draft. His defense, movement and elite shooting skills, inside and outside the arc, demand notice. He ended his second season in the District averaging about 11 points, 3 rebounds and an assist a game. In early April, he dropped a career-high 29 points against the Knicks. He’s turning heads off the court, too, with a classically crisp look. We caught up with Kispert to talk style on and off the court.

District Fray: How do you describe your style?

Corey Kispert: The phrase that would describe my style best is “double take.” I don’t want to wear anything eye-popping, eye-catching. But if you saw me walking around, showing my style, you would look and have to look again. Understated but with a nice fit, nice details.

Players regularly share their gametime arrival looks on social media. Why do you think style has become so important in the NBA?

The credit first goes to the league for relaxing the dress code and letting guys wear what they want to express their style. Before, the only time you would see a player would be in uniform. Now, players have a chance to give fans a glimpse into what they’re like as a person. We’re not just athletes. We’re people with genuine interests outside of our sport. That’s why you see players really put their best foot forward in the walk-ins.

Speaking of, what about shoes?

The dress code on the floor hasn’t loosened up. It’s pretty strict about logos and sizes and bands and sleeves. So, shoes are definitely a centerpiece, whether you’re wearing your signature shoes or someone’s that you’ve looked up to for a long time.

Do you look to other players for inspiration?

Kevin Love has great style. Jayson Tatum does a really good job, too. And my teammate Kristaps Porziņģis has some of the best suits I’ve ever seen.

How has D.C. influenced your style?

D.C.’s unlike any other city in the country. It’s a very powerful, influential place, but it doesn’t always feel like it. I grew up in a suburb of Seattle, went to college in Spokane, so I’m used to a small-town vibe. D.C. kind of has that. But the government has a big impact here on style. You see lots of formal, polished attire. I wear workout gear a lot, so D.C. has been a great place to dress up a little. I really enjoy it.

Thinking of that evolution, what’s next?

I’ve been surveying the field when it comes to my style, but I’m thinking about honing in on certain brands that I really like. I love the stuff at Twenty Montréal. Athleisure is big for me, finding good sweats I can wear in the summer. I want to hone my style and stick to it this next year.

Check out some of Kispert’s looks on his Instagram @ckis24.

Photo courtesy of the Washington Wizards.

Maya Oren

Consummate multihyphenate wants her style to tell a story

WORDS BY M.K. KOSZYCKI

Multihyphenate at all times, and brand experience manager at The LINE DC from nine-to-five, Maya Oren does it all. Oren creates as a photographer, videographer, author of the newsletter “On Holiday” and much more. Oren sat down with us to talk about building a closet with intention, how the District has influenced her style and how her wardrobe has become a passport page of sorts.

District Fray: Describe your personal style in three words.

Maya Oren: The question I ask myself a lot is, “Is this weird?” Or “Is this cool?” So “weird or cool” — I think that really encapsulates it. I really like everything I wear to always have a story. So, if you asked me, “What’s the backstory on that shirt?” I generally have a really cool answer for you. I really like buying from small makers and sustainable brands. But I also like things that will spark conversation, and that make me feel really unique, special and elevated.

Do you have a signature piece you wear often that feels integral to your look? What is the story behind why it’s important to you?

Basically everything. There are these pieces that I’ve acquired over time that have really, really cool stories. One of my favorite pieces is actually in my LinkedIn photo. It’s this particularly cool coat I bought in Medellín, Colombia. It was done by this local artist Eloisa. She basically made a print and then it’s a really beautiful cream color, and comes to about mid-calf. I barely wear it because I’m so nervous to ruin it. It’s so special to me and I absolutely love it. I also bought something on that same trip in Cartagena — this really beautiful white button-down shirt that’s linen and has beaded appliques on the breast where the pockets would be. There’s two of each size total, so eight in the world, and I have one.

How do you see your style evolving in the next five to ten years?

My goal is to eventually consult creative direction and work with places around the world and gain more experiences from different cultures, people and cities. My hope is to continue to acquire really unique pieces that were made with love, and to continue to build out my wardrobe. I can kind of see myself having almost a simplistic palette that’s, at the core, really nice, quality pieces that last forever — which has always been my philosophy.

Do you think D.C. has a specific look or style? How would you describe it? What’s the best thing about it? D.C. is a really interesting place. I always say about the creative class here that you have to really work hard to find it and you have to be curious. Throughout the time I’ve been here, I’ve really noticed that the style is super unique. I think there’s a lot of influence from streetwear, and I really love to pull from that.

To see what Oren is up to, visit mojalvo.com or follow her on Instagram @mojalvo.

The LINE Hotel: 1770 Euclid St. NW, DC thelinehotel.com // @thelinehotel

Photo courtesy of subject.

Pretty Bitter

Psych pop group on style evolutions

WORDS BY M.K. KOSZYCKI

D.C.’s synth pop stalwarts Pretty Bitter — a five-piece band made up of multi-instrumentalist Zack Be, vocalist Em Bleker, drummer Jason Hayes, guitarist Chris Smith and bassist Miri Tyler — shared a look into the creative ethos behind their style both onstage and off. From coming out to taking feminizing hormones to adopting a monochromatic wardrobe and more, members Be, Bleker and Tyler give their stylish takes below.

District Fray: Describe your personal style in three words.

Zack Be: I wanna say “overeducated ottercore,” but “black-out closet” is probably more accurate.

Em Bleker: Soft gender neutral.

Miri Tyler: Thrifted sporty punk.

What’s something unexpected that has had a positive impact on your style?

Be: Mustaches. A mustache on a therapist who mostly provides sex therapy is a powerful aesthetic.

Bleker: Coming out. I was never really comfortable in any of the clothes I was choosing to wear before. Now it feels like the way I style myself and the way others see me is a lot closer to who I am.

Tyler: Growing titties (or the changes that come with taking feminizing hormones).

How does your style find its way into your professional work? How do you use your medium to express yourself?

Be: The all-black aesthetic is simple, neutral and easy to style, such that I can transition directly from my therapy office to the stage to a date and still look like I belong there.

Bleker: It’s such a fun medium to play with as an indicator of how I’m feeling on any given day, and I think that can’t help but bleed into performance. I like to mess around with different face paint — for lack of a better word — on days when I need to distract from the anxiety of knowing a crowd of people is seeing my body. Painting a big pink heart on the side of my face is a great conversation starter, but more importantly for me, it makes the first thing people notice physically centered in art or color rather than “body.” For me, that allows for a more genuine performance and more genuine conversations afterward.

Tyler: It’s more like I’ve curated my professional life to make my style fit. I’m stubborn like that; you’ll never catch me wearing what someone else wants me to wear. Everything I do is music related, whether I’m playing or working a show, or teaching a kiddo how to play Seven Nation Army. I used to teach at a place that tried to enforce a uniform, so I quit and found a new place to teach.

How do you see your style evolving in the next five to 10 years?

Be: My intention is to continue to simplify and minimize my wardrobe into a capsule (think Steve Jobs 2007, but blacked out, athletic and tapered). I prefer not to have options.

Bleker: I feel like the Riverdale meme saying this, but I love weird clothes. I only hope in the coming years that my clothes get more weird.

Tyler: I’m just gonna keep collecting band merch until I die.

For the latest from Pretty Bitter, follow the band on Instagram @prettybitter.mp3.

Photo by Meredith Wohl.

LIFE

Artist Anthony Le at his recent Transformer gallery exhibit, “Golden Looking Hour.”

Photo courtesy of subject.

Celebrating Plus-Size Fashion with Plush DMV

Finding clothes that are flattering, interesting and celebratory of larger bodies has always been a struggle for plus-size people. Over the past nine months, Plush DMV has hosted three clothing swaps (one per season) where D.C. locals have the opportunity to audit their closets, share their wares and go home with new treasures. Those browsing can find clothing up to size 5X and beyond. We asked swappers their thoughts on plus-size clothing trends, misconceptions and what inspires their own personal style.

WORDS + PHOTOS BY FARRAH SKEIKY

Briget Heidmous, Creative Entrepreneur

“When I was in high school, there wasn’t activewear I could get that was made for my body, or that was accentuating my shape and not trying to form me into something else. So that’s where [my] Astral Theory clothing line comes from. It’s about creating body and color confidence in spaces where thinness is the priority. The whole concept is to be more active and confident.”

@brigetheidmous

Mayra Mejia, Founder of Plush DMV

“If you look in stores, the plus-size options (if they have any) are very plain, very boxy, not on trend. A lot of the time people resort to online shopping, and that’s kind of reliable, but not really. Swaps like this allow people to try things on, look at different styles and brands or find things they couldn’t normally afford or access — and it’s free. That’s why I have [this].”

@MayraYMejia + @PlushDMV

Michelle Jones, Maker

“I sew, so I pay attention to pattern designers and their expansion of their size range. More than just a boxy top, more than just an A-line skirt — really fun and bold patterns are coming out in larger sizes and I’m really excited about that. And it’s inclusive for me because now I get to make them.”

@elitaveramakes

Kelsey Sloter, Nonprofit Professional

“I don’t want my shorts to be Bermuda-short length. I want booty shorts! Just because I’m fat doesn’t mean I don’t want similar styles to what my friends are wearing. I don’t want to cover up because I have more skin.”

Celeste Reyes, “That Girl On A Healing Journey”

“[People think] that we like to wear baggy clothes, that we don’t want to show our curves, that we are insecure about our bodies, that we don’t want to show skin and that we love flowers — that’s a huge one. And I feel invisible. I feel it’s so overwhelming and isolating. I want to walk in and be half naked and find clothes that are comfortable and show skin and show my curves. Also, we’re not all short. We can be tall, too.”

@Celeste_Reco

Local Tourist

Your guide to the City of Falls Church, Northern Virginia's charming "Little City"

WORDS BY DAISY LACY | ILLUSTRATION BY TORIE PARTRIDGE

Just five miles west of D.C. lies the City of Falls Church. Easily accessible by public transit, car and bike, this highly walkable area is full of sweet independent businesses and laidback vibes. Because of its proximity to D.C. and the overall desirability of the area, The Little City (trademarked over a decade ago) is currently experiencing an explosion of new development. In spite of all this change, it retains its smalltown charm. If it wasn’t already on your radar, consider this your heads up.

Eat

Friendly staff and interstellar décor are but two of the many reasons to visit Spacebar. The sister bar and restaurant to Galaxy Hut in Arlington, Spacebar has a great vibe, an extensive menu of grilled cheese sandwiches (including vegan options), tater tots and more than 20 craft beers on tap. Northside Social, run out of a converted single-family

home, is great for brunch, lunch, happy hour, dinner — you name it. New to the dining scene, Ellie Bird (from the Rooster & Owl team) offers a unique twist on comfort food, from kimchi bouillabaisse to fancy tater tots. For a sweet treat, head over to Bakeshop. The ice cream cookiewiches are so good, and they have both dairy and vegan options.

Drink

Rare Bird Coffee Roasters is a great spot to grab a cup of coffee (expertly roasted in-house) and take in the talented local artists on display in the cafe gallery space. For those looking to hone their coffee skills and deepen their appreciation, Rare Bird offers “cupping sessions” (Google it) Wednesdays and every other Saturday. For something a bit stronger, local brewery Audacious Aleworks Brewery has a Falls Church taproom featuring 20 brews on tap, sours and frozen slushies.

Go Out

Cherry Hill Park hosts a number of community events, from outdoor movie screenings to music festivals, and it’s adjacent to the weekly Falls Church farmer’s market. Falls Church will also host the 29th Tinner Hill Heritage Music Festival on Saturday June 10, which features live music, art, local food vendors and more. There’s also a Summer Concerts in the Park series, featuring Wammie award-winning bands every Thursday evening from June 22 to August 3.

Shop

CD Cellar has been a mainstay in the D.C.-area music scene since 1992, offering a massive selection of new and used records, CDs and DVDs to satisfy the casual shopper or the seasoned collector. Follow them on Instagram for weekly, sometimes daily, stock updates. Located in a cute little house on Broad Street, Botanologica is a fantastic flower, plant and gift shop. They carry curated accessories from independent makers and offer seasonal bouquets in addition to the many plants and related goods.

Chill

Though a very small city of just two square miles, Falls Church contains 14 parks, providing a variety of options for chilling out. From hiking and biking trails to playgrounds to grilling and picnic areas, there’s no shortage of opportunities to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. For a more active chill session, West End Park is home to the city’s only skate and BMX area, and the W&OD trail, which passes through the center of the city, is perfect for biking or strolling.

Audacious Aleworks Brewery: 110 E Fairfax St.; audaciousaleworks.com // @audaciousaleworks

Bakeshop: 100 E Fairfax St.; bakeshopva.com // @bakeshopva

Botanologica: 817 W Broad St.; botanologica.com // @botanologica

CD Cellar: 105 Park Ave.; cdcellarva.com // @cdcellarva

Ellie Bird: 125 Founder’s Ave.; elliebirdva.com // @elliebirdva

Falls Church Parks: fallschurchva.gov/parks // @fallschurchgov

Farmer’s Market: fallschurchva.gov/547/farmers-market // @fallschurchgov

Northside Social: 205 Park Ave.; northsidesocialva.com // @northsidefallschurch

Rare Bird Coffee Roasters: 230 W Broad St.; rarebirdcoffee.com // @rarebirdcoffee

Spacebar: 709 W Broad St.; spcbr.com // @spacebarva

Summer Concerts in the Park: fallschurchva.gov/632/concerts-in-the-park // @fallschurchgov

Tinner Hill Heritage Music Festival: tinnerhill.org // @tinnerhillheritagefdn1997

Dacha Beer Garden has been a neighborhood xture in Washington DC since 2013, a Bavarian concept adapted for an American palette, combining the charm of a classic German beer garden with a modern American bar. Dacha o ers a comfortable atmosphere for families, friends, and pets alike with amazing cocktails, delicious Bavarian-inspired food, and an unrivaled world-class beer program.

AAPI Month in D.C.

Your guide to celebrating the many cultures of this diaspora in May + year-round

WORDS BY AVIVA BECHKY

From local events and important initiatives to the very social fabric of the city, D.C. has been deeply and indelibly shaped by the AAPI community — and there’s much to explore and support all year long. We spoke with social sculptor Philippa Pham Hughes, anti-bias educator and author Liz Kleinrock, artist Anthony Le, National Association of Asian American Professionals President Jenny Nguyen and DC South Asian Arts Council Inc. Director Manoj Singh to get their thoughts on how to celebrate the AAPI community and support its representation in the District, in May and every month.

District Fray: What does AAPI Month mean to you?

Philippa Pham Hughes: For most of my life, I ignored my Asian heritage because I wanted to fit in, to be more American. I assimilated and denied my Vietnamese side. AAPI Month has helped me gain pride in being Asian American and learn that to be American is to delight in all the parts of myself. America contains multitudes and I contain multitudes.

Anthony Le: AAPI Heritage Month highlights what it means to be Asian American: holding onto your cultural lineage while navigating the winds

of living in America. My recent exhibition “Golden Looking Hour” at Transformer featured paintings that subverted the assumptions we make about each other based on race and gender. Once freed from those presumptions, we can truly enjoy and bask in the weirdness of the portraits of Asian Americans and other allies.

Liz Kleinrock: This is a joyful celebration of our shared history and community for the AAPI diaspora. It’s also Jewish American Heritage Month, so as an Asian Jew, it feels like this month was meant for me.

Jenny Nguyen: It is an opportunity for AAPI individuals and communities to celebrate their cultural heritage and to share their stories and experiences with others, while promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural diversity of their communities.

Manoj Singh: AAPI Month is a celebration and reminder of our contributions we have made for diversity and achievements of the United States. It is the time of the year we educate our fellow citizens and the next generation about our cultural heritage and contributions that make up the fabric of the United States.

Local AAPI Leaders to Know

DIANE D’COSTA

Educator, organizer and artist working in ceramics and creating community activations, like a recent garden installation that invited visitors to share the ways they heal

dianedcosta.com @dianemakesthings

ADELE KENWORTHY

Socially engaged artist + organizer specializing in multimedia displays themeowingbird.com @themeowingbird

SOJIN KIM

Curator for the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage and part of the 1882 Foundation research team, working on a historic preservation report about Chinese and Korean Americans in D.C.

bit.ly/smithsonian-sojin-kim

DANNY LEE

Co-creator of The Fried Rice

Collective, the chef behind Mandu and a culinary ambassador for EmbraceRace embracerace.org

@dannyleedc

KATRINA DIZON MARIATEGUE

Chief operating officer of the Southeast Asia Resource Action Center searac.org @searac

MAYHAH ROMA SURI

Theater and production director at the South Asian Performing Arts Network and Institute sapanarts.org

@sapanarts

Liz Kleinrock. Photo by Maya Fiellin.

How are you activating and/or supporting locally during AAPI Month?

Hughes: I host salons at my home on different topics throughout the year and plan to host a conversation in May around what it means to be Asian American. I am excited to attend the White House Forum on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, and will also attend as many events as I can that are part of the National Museum of Asian Art’s centennial.

Kleinrock: During AAPI Month, I speak to different companies, organizations and schools about Asian American history and identity. I try to remind folks that rather than focusing on our oppression, this is a celebration of our communal joy, power and beauty.

Singh: This year, we are hosting the DC South Asian Literary Festival, which is coming together to celebrate our stories, poetry and culture.

What can locals do year-round to support the AAPI community?

Hughes: Support small businesses owned by Asian Americans — especially the efforts of Viet Place Collective, which is upholding the deep Vietnamese legacy in the DMV. Right now, they’re focused on preserving Vietnamese culture at Eden Center, which is under consideration for redevelopment by the City of Falls Church.

Le: We can enter AAPI Heritage Month with an openness to listen and learn, and that’s how we can continue to uplift the Asian American community beyond this month.

Nguyen: Learn about the issues facing the community, speak out against hate, support AAPIowned businesses, donate to AAPI organizations providing critical resources, and attend events, rallies and other gatherings to show your support and solidarity with AAPI communities.

Singh: Educate people about Asian culture, help with lobbying for our cause at all legislative levels, support Asian American candidates in elections, talk about our social issues in classes and panel discussions, and celebrate our successes. Always be inclusive and an inspiration.

Learn more about our interviewees below.

Philippa Pham Hughes: philippahughes.com // @philippahughes_

Liz Kleinrock: teachandtransform.org // @teachandtransform

Anthony Le: anthonyle.co // @anthonyleart

Jenny Nguyen: dc.naaap.org // @naaapdc

Manoj Singh: dcsaaci.org // @dcsaaci

How to Celebrate AAPI Month in D.C.

Go to districtfray.com/articles/AAPI-month-2023 for a full list of AAPI Month events to choose from.

5.1-5.14

CENTENNIAL ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH FESTIVAL

Over two weeks, celebrate 100 years of the National Museum of Asian Art’s dedication to highlighting AAPI artists. Programs include music, dance, film, food, markets, exhibitions and dialogue — all sure to delight, educate and inspire. Free+. Various times. National Museum of Asian Art: 1050 Independence Ave. NW, DC; asia.si.edu // @natasianart

5.5

NMAA × SAMASAMA

ART MARKET

Enjoy an outdoor market on the plaza where you can meet and shop with creators and learn about the processes that contribute to the beautiful multicultural landscape of Asian American diaspora communities. Free+. 3 p.m. Freer Plaza: 1150 Jefferson Dr. SW, DC; asia.si.edu // @natasianart

5.5-5.14

DC SOUTH ASIAN LITERARY FESTIVAL

The DC South Asian Arts Council Inc. will host the third year of its literary festival, and it’s the first to have some events in person. Hear from a plethora of South Asian writers from near and far and enjoy panels on topics like Indian women writers and artists. Free. Various times and locations. dcsaaci.org // @dcsaaci

5.13

ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH CONCERT AND RECEPTION

Join for an afternoon of celebration and education

about the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America’s history and are instrumental in its future success. Free. 1 p.m. Harmony Hall Regional Center: 10701 Livingston Rd. Fort Washington, MD; pgparks.com // @pgparksandrec

CENTENNIAL NIGHT MARKET

Since 2021, No Kings Collective has organized THE REDEYE, a night market celebrating the foods and cultures of the Asian diaspora. Now, they team up with The National Museum of Asian Art for a one-day open market to celebrate the museum’s centennial, featuring food vendors, artists, makers and more. Free. 12 p.m. Arts & Industries Building + Freer Plaza: 900 Jefferson Ave. SW, DC; nmaa.swoogo.com/market // @natasianart

5.19 + 5.20

EVERYTHING, EVERYONE, ALL THE FOOD AT ONCE FEST This festival will feature acclaimed culinary talent and recognize AAPI traditions across two days. Enjoy great food and live, local performances, especially at the Saturday Night Markets. $20+.

Various times. District Pier: 101 District Sq. SW, DC; bit.ly/everything-everyone

5.20

2023 FIESTA ASIA STREET FAIR Fiesta Asia Street Fair features over 1,000 performers, artisans, entrepreneurs and food vendors for eight consecutive hours.

Don’t miss out. Free. 11 a.m. 400 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; fiestaasia.org // @fiestaasia

MAY 20–21, 2023

Reston Town Center | SAT 10 AM –6 PM | SUN 10 AM –5 PM

Now in its 32 nd year, the Tephra ICA Arts Festival, formerly titled the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival, offers one-on-one experiences with artists, vibrant public performances in dialogue with the exhibition on view at the Tephra ICA gallery, and engaging activities for art enthusiasts of all ages. Over 200 contemporary artists and artisans will travel from across the country to present original handmade artwork to share with Festival audiences.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

Come for the Festival and stay for the concert!

• Artist Booths: 10 AM –6 PM

• Family Art Park: 10 AM –4 PM

• Hoesy Corona Performances: 1 PM & 4 PM

Presented by Reston Community Center

• Festival Cocktail Hour and Award Ceremony: 6:30pm (Become a member to attend)

• Reston Concerts on the Town: Dance Candy!—8 PM

Presented by Reston Town Center Association

tephraica.org/festival

Lauchlan Davis, Neighbor Pool , 2022

Erica Christian. Photo by Farrah Skeiky.

The Most Potent Medicine

Three D.C. creatives on how to support, engage + collaborate during Mental Health Awareness Month

WORDS BY AVIVA BECHKY

The District is brimming with opportunities to support mental health awareness, from self-care pop-ups celebrating the diversity of D.C.’s service industry to sensory experiences promoting self-expression through food and art. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM), we caught up with three local community builders in this space: Erica Christian, founder of Empowering the Diner and creator of Satiated; Carter Umhau, a licensed psychotherapist, artist and writer who works to create healing spaces that can be integrated into people’s everyday lives; and artist Janelle Whisenant, whose work focuses on themes of mental health. Read on for their insight into how to integrate mental health awareness into your everyday lives and social experiences.

District Fray: What does MHAM mean to you?

Carter Umhau: My hope is that bringing awareness to mental health issues also means bringing awareness to the myriad ways diverse struggles require diverse solutions of care — in the systemic and the deeply specific and creatively personal.

Janelle Whisenant: MHAM, in its simplest yet likely most important detail, reminds us to reach out to friends and family — maybe those you haven’t heard from in a while — or just to check in and let someone know you love them or are thinking of them. We never know when something so simple as a hello, a smile or an act of kindness can alter someone’s day — or life.

How did you combine your creative pursuits with mental health?

Erica Christian: I’ve always been a huge advocate for being able to access wonder and exploration in process toward engaging with food and beverage. There’s a lot of response to Black trauma around chronic illness and disability, but there’s not a lot of spaces where we’re saying, “Hey, this is what joy means to us. This is what pleasure means to us. This is what it means for us to explore.” And I think that exploration is key to mental health in general.

Umhau: As an artist and poet first, I have always seen creativity as the most potent medicine for wellbeing, and the most powerful tool for healing and emotional processing. Since becoming a therapist, I have worked to integrate creative expression into more traditional client work because I believe it’s more effective in building resiliency and deep connection to the self that’s necessary for healing.

Whisenant: I ended up at the University of Maryland in the MFA program, creating installations involving ripped up stuffed animals and repurposed toys, mixed with line work and painting — essentially, creating an unspoken language about my past, my subconscious feelings and design. I believe in the power of letting

others create without pressure and without judgment to release and free their minds of burdens, even temporarily.

How are you activating during MHAM?

Christian: I do a lot of speaking out about my identity and what that means for me, but I also do a lot of speaking out and activating around people having access to what pleases them, and access to safely exploring that. I’m very blessed to be surrounded by a community that’s always considering mental health. It’s less about it being an initiative and more about it being a way of life for us. We’re holding each other accountable to the way we say we want to live. If we say we want to slow down, how are we actually integrating that into our work?

Umhau: I am expanding my one-onone coaching offerings, and beginning a regular, therapeutic art journaling group for people to begin exploring the regular practice of art making as self-exploration, self-care and emotional processing.

Whisenant: One of the beautiful opportunities about simultaneously working in the bar and restaurant industry while being an artist is the natural possibility of social connections that occur at any given time. I’ve been inspired to activate a charity drink of my creation on our menu at Grand Duchess for the month of May, with a percentage of the sales to be donated to a charity for mental health awareness and support of my choosing. I’d also like to include my art and local artists in the event, but I am still in brainstorming mode.

Explore more of Christian’s ventures at empoweringthediner.com and by following her on Instagram @empoweringthediner, @areyousatiated and @ericasade08.

Learn more about Umhau at carterumhau.com and follow her on Instagram @carterfleet. Check out Whisenant’s work at janellewhisenant.com and follow her on Instagram @janellewhisenant.

Follow these six community builders and mental health advocates who collaborate with other locals in hospitality, the arts and other creative endeavors to provide safe spaces and engaging events in the District.

MARIA BASTASCH

Multidisciplinary designer, holistic health practitioner and creator of Disco Mary Collective discomary.com

@discomarycollective

LAUREN BESSETTE

Owner and lead designer of Lo Bessette Co.

lobessette.co

@lobeanie

RACHEL KLEBANOV

D.C.-based therapist and conceptual artist

rachelklebanov.com

MAYA MAKIN + ASHLEY

AMADO

Founders of Stirred Up DC and creators of Hot Girls Go To Therapy

@stirredupdc

ZSAMERIA

Creator of SwapDC, an initiative to bring awareness to consumerism

swapdc.com

@swapdc

PLAY

Kai Tramble. Photo courtesy of Design Army.

Beginner’s Guide

WORDS BY ANNIE AGNONE

When you work in a bike shop, you know the first warm day of spring means things are about to get intense.

“You can almost set the calendar to it,” says Loren Copsey, co-owner of The Daily Rider bike shop in Northeast D.C. “The first weekend it hits above 70 degrees, you know that next week is going to be crazy.”

Between seasoned year-round cyclists outfitting their bikes with the latest accessories or shopping for a new whip, casual riders coming in for a tune-up and budding bikers in the market for their first bicycle, springtime finds cyclists of all stripes preparing for miles of warm-weather fun ahead.

According to Copsey, a die-hard cyclist who sold his seldom-

used car a few years ago when he noticed moss growing on one side, it’s a good idea to bring your bike in for a check-up, particularly if it spent the winter hibernating outside. One of the first things his team will do, Copsey says, is give the bike a good cleaning: removing excess road grime and debris that can cause corrosion over time, and giving all the parts a once-over.

For Renée Moore, outreach director at the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA), spring means it’s time to swap out the flowers decorating her bike.

“My bike is decorated in flowers all year,” says Moore, who learned to bike as an adult on a date in Georgetown. “Right now, there’s sunflowers. I haven’t put new ones on there yet, Renée

Moore. Photo by Nick Phongnimit.

This spring, give your bike a glow-up.

but they’re probably going to be huge. Like peonies or something. It depends on what I see at Michaels. I get a big string of flower garland and I decorate my baskets and then I string stringlights around it.”

Though she bikes all year, biking in the spring offers its particular joys, not least of which is the chance to express her personal style.

“My favorite thing is to bike in sandals, heels, sundresses. I switch out my bags for straw baskets,” Moore says. “Everybody has their own bike style. For some people, it’s the bag they put on it, whether they have a basket, the lights they use. I think infusing yourself into it — that’s what makes it fun.”

With help from Copsey and Moore, we put together a shortlist of accessories to trick out your ride — so you can celebrate National Bike Month in style.

Basil Memories Bottle Basket

These open, wire-frame baskets mount to your rack and are versatile, lightweight, relatively inexpensive and easier than a pannier to put oddshaped/rigid things into. Copsey, who thinks he has about six in his house, says they’re perfect for a grocery run.

Cleverhood rainwear

Hate riding in the rain? Tight, so does everyone. Moore recommends Cleverhood, which makes rain capes and jackets with cyclists in mind, with styles that drape over your handlebars and seat and hoods designed to fit over a helmet. And though you may never come to actually enjoy biking in a downpour, having something waterproof to protect you in a pinch is a real game-changer.

Hiplok D1000 bike lock

Copsey loves this new angle grinderproof U-lock from Hiplok. “It has a material in it that defeats grinding wheels, which is how a lot of U-locks are defeated nowadays, and that changes the game for the person who needs to lock up in a less-than-secure area,” Copsey says. It’s perfect for anyone who doesn’t want their bike to get stolen, so you’ll probably want one.

Light & Motion lights

“I don’t think you can ever have enough lights on your bike,” says Moore. “You should always be seen. Even in the summer, when the days are longer, you never know if you’re going to be out a little later or at dusk.” Light & Motion makes lights that are extremely bright, rechargeable, waterproof, easy to attach and detach and offer a daytime flash setting. Remember: It’s not about you seeing something; it’s about cars, other cyclists and pedestrians seeing you.

Nite Ize phone holders

Nite Ize makes two styles of handlebarmounted phone holders that pin your phone snugly in place with a silicone strap. Copsey notes these are great for all types of riders: “delivery drivers who love having that GPS right in front of them, moms programming music for the kids in the back of the cargo bike, people doing their weekend trip to an unknown splash park and want to have GPS turn-by-turn.”

Nutcase helmets

Larger-than-life lemons. Swirling peacock feathers. Topographic lines. Nutcase helmets are fun, colorful — and if you have a big head or lots of hair, they might just be your best bet. “I think it adds a little bit of personality to your bike style,” Moore says. “I’ve had like four of them over the years.”

Po Campo bags

Stylish, functional unisex bags from a woman-owned company? Say less. Po Campo makes products for people who want to substitute a bike for a car. Think panniers that convert to a grocery bag then back again, or feed bags that strap to your frame to hold snacks or a water bottle.

Friday, May 19 is Bike to Work Day in the DMV. Learn more and register at biketoworkmetrodc.org.

The Daily Rider: 600 H St. NE, DC thedailyriderdc.com // @thedailyriderdc

Washington Area Bicyclist

Association: 2599 Ontario Rd. NW, DC waba.org // @wabadc

Ride + shine.

Whether your bike is emerging from hibernation or you’re pedaling yearround, practice these simple, DIY maintenance techniques (commonly known as “the ABCs” for air, breaks and chain, cassette and crank) to keep your ride looking good and cycling safe. Visit waba.org for an ABC Quick Check webinar.

PUT AIR IN YOUR TIRES.

Use a gauge and bring your tires to the recommended pressure (hint: it’s written on the side of your tire) every two to three weeks. Not only do properly inflated tires prevent flats and protect your wheels, they reduce rolling resistance, so your bike will feel less sluggish, which means it’s going to be a lot be more fun to ride.

TEST YOUR BREAKS.

Car doors, errant soccer balls and darting children come out of nowhere. Your bike should be able to bring you to a complete stop very quickly. Brake parts wear out and get dirty, so it’s important to check them and either get them fixed or fix them yourself if they’re not functioning at full capacity.

CHECK YOUR CHAIN, CASSETTE AND CRANK.

Make sure your drive train is tight, not worn and clear of excess debris and dirt, and your chain is lubricated.

Learn to care for your bike at a co-op.

These education-focused community bike nonprofits offer maintenance classes, open-shop hours and more.

The Bike House thebikehouse.org // @thebikehouse

Gearin’ Up Bicycles gearinupbicycles.org //@gearinupdc

Phoenix Bikes phoenixbikes.org // @phoenix_bikes

Vélocity Bicycle Cooperative velocitycoop.org // @velocitycoop

RUNNING IN STYLE

WORDS BY HALEY MCKEY

The Cherry Blossom 10-miler has come and gone, humidity is setting in and you can feel the heat radiating off the asphalt by 8 a.m. It’s almost summer, and D.C.’s runners are hitting the trails.

The DMV is known for its scenic running routes and beginner-friendly terrain, and its reputation as a run-culture hotspot is growing steadily. The D.C. area is home to Pacers Running, the well-known company that started out as a neighborhood running store in Old Town Alexandria in 1991. Thirty years later, it has expanded and continues to serve the region’s runners, and even sponsors races and holds fun runs anyone can join.

Meanwhile, global running brand Saucony filmed their latest Ride 16 shoe campaign in the District. Produced by D.C.based creative agency Design Army, the campaign features local runner and DC Run Crew co-founder Kai Tramble. But if you’re eyeballing your tired sneakers and worn-out band T-shirt and dreading that first sweaty run down the bike path, not to worry: District Fray asked Kai, her husband Frank Tramble and Pacers’ retail buyer Victoria Sanchez for their recommendations on the latest gear to keep you looking and feeling fresh.

One exciting new offering is Pacers’ very own apparel line, the aptly-named 2:02 collection, which features shirts, leggings, hats and more in gender-neutral athletic sizing that reflects D.C.’s diverse running community.

“I would say D.C. is a mixed bag, but in the best way possible,” Sanchez says. “When you go on our fun runs, you’ll see everyone from their 20s to their 50s. D.C. is a vibrant culture. You’re going to see groups of people who wouldn’t naturally socialize together, but running culture brought them together.”

For Kai and Frank, running gear is essential to performance.

“It allows you to focus on what matters and run at your best pace,” Frank says. “I like my gear to feel like it’s a part of my natural body. I want it to flow with my movements and keep me focused.”

“When you look good, you feel and perform even better,” Kai agrees.

Without a doubt, shoes are the most essential part of a runner’s kit. Both Kai and Sanchez are big fans of Saucony’s latest shoe offering, the Saucony Ride 16.

“It’s a versatile trainer that’s great for HIIT and run workouts like ours at DC Run Crew,” says Kai (who is the face of Saucony’s spring campaign).

Local running experts clue us in on the best apparel for this season’s exercise.

“It’s great if you’re a neutral runner, and it has mono mesh that fits around your heel a little better,” Sanchez says.

Her other recommendation: the Nike Pegasus 40, Nike’s most popular offering.

For Frank, “Every run has to be different for me. I get bored easily,” he says. “I love the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 — it’s my go-to for our group long runs, speed work and race day. It has the versatility I need.”

What about summer style trends in D.C.? According to Sanchez, the early 2000s are having a moment, especially for women’s apparel.

“Athletic dresses, running skirts — depending on who you talk to, some will say they never left.”

She notes that Outdoor Voices, which has a shop in Georgetown, is well known for its sporty dress line. Increasingly, people are looking for gear they can throw on for an after-work run with friends, then dry off and wear to the bar. After all, beer is well known as a great post-workout recovery drink.

“D.C. is huge into athleisure for both men and women,” Sanchez says. “We want stuff that allows people to do both and perform at a high level.”

“[People are wearing] brighter colors to stand out, which also stems from the need for safety as you run in low light,” says Frank.

Kai notes she’s seeing a lot of transparent running jackets: “They’re my fave right now.”

Sanchez recommends Smartwool’s Ultralite merino tops and Rabbit’s EZ tank and short sleeve offerings to get your fix of bright, functional gear. Style aside, she notes there’s also some great new post-run rehab tech out there to help runners hit the trails all summer. Chief among them are Oofos recovery shoes and sandals.

“They’re great for post-running walks and for plantar fasciitis,” she says. “We’re getting lots of folks coming in with orthopedic recommendations for its arch support.”

And to rejuvenate tired muscles, Theragun has just released its new mini 2.0 massager that’s 20 percent smaller and 30 percent lighter than its previous model, making it easy to throw in your gym bag or keep in the car to use after a long run.

Running style is only getting more fun and sophisticated in the DMV. Whether you’re grinding out the miles on the road, hitting the treadmill at the gym or sprinting down at Banneker track, there’s plenty of options for shoes, apparel and tech to help you look and run your best this summer. And if you’re looking for a new route, Sanchez recommends taking the Mount Vernon trail from Old Town to the airport and back — you can reward yourself with a little something from Pacers’ flagship afterwards.

EVENT series

Shop running gear at runpacers.com and saucony.com. Learn more about DC Run Crew at dcruncrew.com and follow @dcruncrew.

SAVOR SUMMER WITH FRAY

Basketball

Bocce

Cornhole

Flag football

Hockey

Kickball

Nationals Park Proudly Supports Local Businesses

WORDS BY KEITH LORIA

As fans head into Nationals Park this season, many are noticing the new vendors and local businesses that have set up shop in the stadium, offering some great food and beverages.

A family-owned business, the Washington Nationals prides itself on supporting local small businesses to improve the fan experience at the ballpark.

Mike Carney, executive vice president of business operations for the Washington Nationals, says baseball teams have a civic duty to support their community, and the teams that do it the best support local and small businesses.

“Food and beverage is a particularly important part for us, and with the millions of fans who walk through our turnstiles each season, it’s great exposure for these local brands,” he says. “We want to provide the platform to support them.”

More than 20 local businesses are represented at Nationals Park — from concession stands and local breweries to behindthe-scenes purveyors that provide ingredients for other stands and dining areas.

“Because of the volume of business and how we bring people from all these different areas — especially people coming from Virginia who may not have tried products made in the District or Maryland — we have this unique opportunity,” says Jonathan Stahl, vice president of experience and hospitality for the Washington Nationals. “We’ve always had local restaurants. The D.C. food scene has grown incredibly over our 16-year history. So, we’ve been able to incorporate small local businesses and integrate them into the fabric of the ballpark.”

Currently, the restaurants at Nats Park consist of Haute Dogs and Fries, Swizzler, Capo Deli, Ben’s Chili Bowl, La Casita Pupuseria, Rockland’s Barbeque, Hard Times Cafe, Char Bar, Arepa Zone, Jammin’ Island BBQ, Capital City mambo sauce, Roaming Rooster and South Mountain Creamery. Local

breweries featured are Port City, DC Brau, Atlas, Right Proper, Old Ox, Other Half, Denizens, FairWinds, Solace, City State, Aslin and Flying Dog.

“We’re generally the largest customer of any local brewery we work with,” Stahl says. “There’s so much great craft beer in the area and it’s what our customers want, and we’re able to give them what they want.”

The ballpark also offers local cocktails, including custom creations from Pratt Standard Cocktail Co., Blossom Espresso Martini and Ocean City, Maryland-based Hoop Tea.

“Fans also like to support local business,” Stahl says. “They like to know that what they are eating and drinking was created not too far from them. As a country, we have a lot of big-name brands, and sometimes those are incredible, but there are a lot of local companies making great product and we want to support them as well.”

At the end of each season, the team evaluates what concessions might be missing in the ballpark and looks for companies that fit that niche.

“Simplicity is a great recipe for success and we try not to make overly complicated commercial structures,” Carney says. “We have relatively easy plug-and-play infrastructure here at the ballpark and make it as business-friendly as we can. We’ve evolved over our 16 years; products have become more localcentric over time, and as things have come into this area, we look to how best we can support them.”

Download the MLB Ballpark app to learn more about what concessions are available at Nationals Park and to see where they’re located.

Nationals Park: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC mlb.com/nationals // @nationals

Members Only with Morgan Elwell

WORDS BY KEITH LORIA

We are so grateful for the people who help make District Fray possible, so we’re highlighting them in our Members Only series. Become a member at districtfray.com/membership.

This month, we meet Morgan Elwell, media relations manager for Wolf Trap. Elwell shares how she became involved in the entertainment business, some of her favorite concerts and what she loves about living in the area.

District Fray: How would you characterize your career?

Morgan Elwell: I handle all incoming and outgoing press related to Wolf Trap — setting up artist interviews or pitching preview pieces for the upcoming season. I work with all the different outlets in the region, both locally and nationally. No day is ever the same, and it changes based on what the needs are for the foundation or for each individual show.

How did you get into this field?

Previously, I was a television producer in Richmond, and from there I moved over to doing publicity and marketing for a book publishing company in New York, and then I moved back to Virginia.

What do you enjoy about working at Wolf Trap?

I love Wolf Trap because of its location — it’s 100 acres hidden away in Northern Virginia. But it’s also such a great place to work if you love the arts. We have a little bit of everything, from ballet to musical theatre to pop, rock, hip hop. Just about anything comes through our doors and it’s great because I can be working in the office and then just walk down the road and see a fantastic show.

Who are some of your favorite acts you’ve seen perform at Wolf Trap?

I love Broadway in the Park. I try to work that show every year because I love being able to listen to the major artists who come through. I also really love the ABBA tribute show we do just about every year. People come and dress up, and then you get to hear all the major ABBA hits.

What do you enjoy about living in the DMV area?

I love that there’s public transportation, so I can hop on the Metro and go visit my aunt who lives in Georgetown or my friend who lives in Columbia Heights. And we have all of these free museums nowhere else in this country has.

What are some of your favorite places to visit?

I really enjoy going to Old Town, Alexandria. And my aunt lives near the Kennedy Center, and walking around her neighborhood is really pretty as well.

What do you do for fun outside of work? Any hobbies or interests?

Having worked in publishing, I’m a voracious reader, so I will read just about anything that comes across my lap. I also love to go to comedy shows and live theatre events.

What are your career goals?

To stay in the performing arts industry because I like to do work I enjoy, and I really enjoy working there.

Your neighborhood? McLean, Virginia. Favorite museum? National Postal Museum. Go-to cuisine: Anyplace with homemade bread. Goal for 2023: See more shows than I saw in 2022.

Learn more about Wolf Trap at wolftrap.org. Follow Elwell on Instagram @notnamedmegan.

Photo by Leney Breeden of A Girl Named Leney // @agirlnamedleney.

Players’ Club with Catie Merino

WORDS BY KEITH LORIA

We love our DC Fray players, so we’re highlighting them in our Players’ Club series. Join Fray leagues at dcfray.com/leagues. For the better part of 10 years, Catie Merino has spent her Thursday nights getting her kicks on the kickball field — first in an Adams Morgan league and more recently in the LGBTQ+ league at Stead Park. Not only are leagues a way for Merino to meet new people, she also enjoys the goofy parts of the game and the fact that everyone is on the same level playing field.

Originally from Los Angeles, Merino has lived in the District for the past 15 years, working in project management at NPR for the last eight. Last summer, Merino got her own electric bike, and has been riding around the city exploring the different neighborhoods of the District. We caught up with Merino to talk career highs, book clubs and how D.C. feels like a small town.

District Fray: What brought you to the D.C. area?

Catie Merino: I came for college originally — George Washington University — and I stayed because I loved it. I’m having a great run here and it’s home to me now.

How would you describe your career?

I started out as an executive assistant and the project management aspect sort of built on itself. During the pandemic, we had to figure out how to get news coverage from people reporting from home for safety reasons, so I was part of the team who pivoted to operations and helped get people the equipment they needed and mapped out how to do our work. We reimagined what NPR could be and who we could attract, and I took on a leadership role in that.

What other hobbies or activities are you involved in?

I’m in a couple of book clubs, which I love. I live in a co-op and serve on the board in leadership. And I love spending time with people I care about.

What’s your favorite thing about living in the D.C. area?

D.C. is very much a small town masquerading as a big city, and that’s what I really like about it. It feels really close to everything and there’s so much to do that’s free. There’s a lot of things that are interesting and beautiful, and you can sometimes take for granted how lovely it is to be bopping around. You meet a lot of smart people who showed up here because they care a lot about something and are super into it. It’s fun to have that level of enthusiasm when chatting.

Your neighborhood: Adams Morgan. Favorite museum: The National Gallery of Art. Go-to cuisine: Mexican (Alero Restaurant on Connecticut). 2023 goal: Finding quality time with friends outside of parties or restaurants. Favorite D.C. sports team: D.C. United.

Follow Merino on Instagram @catiemerino.

Photo courtesy of subject.

Photo Hunt

CAN YOU SPOT THE SIX DIFFERENCES? When it comes to fashion, our cover stars Deontré Hancock and Lana Rae don’t hold back. Spot the differences in these funky looks and check out pages 28-34 to see more fits, learn more about Hancock and Rae, and find some inspiration for your own style. Check districtfray.com for the answer key.

Cover subjects Lana Rae + Deontré Hancock. Original photo by Tony Powell.

Crossword

CREATED BY MYLES MELLOR

Look sharp! The theme of this month’s crossword is style. Expect a collection of words tailored to evoke the innovative, diverse lewks of our nation’s capital and the people who call it home.

NOTE: Check districtfray.com for the answer key.

ACROSS

1 Trendy boots, two words

8 Trouble, dated

10 Hair fringe

11 Hit the runway

13 Sine non

15 Striking, in fashion

16 Project Runway mentor, Gunn

18 Curtis Mayfield classic, “Move on ”

DOWN

1 First public appearance

2 Very simple in form and color

3 Racy

4 Internet style celebrity, Chamberlain

5 Blue

6 Interesting and exciting: a word to describe D.C. streetwear

7 Huggable

9 Budding socialite

12 Above ground railway

14 Emotional highs

17 Savings account, abbr.

20 Flashy jewelry

22 Memo starting word

23 Posh duds for posh events

25 Virgo antecedent, in the zodiac

26 Korean music genre that’s created a clothing style, two words

Getting Dressed (Up) with DCFashion Fool

WORDS BY KRISTEN SCHOTT

Barnette Holston could write the book on men’s style in the District. The manager of accounting operations at National Cooperative Bank grew up in Silver Spring, lives in 16th Street Heights and is known among the well-heeled set as DCFashion Fool, the content creation brand he created nearly a decade ago to share his aesthetic with the world — and gents who are looking to create their own. What is his aesthetic? Whatever he puts on for the day is what you’ll find him in later that night.

“If I’m going to wear it, I’m going to wear it everywhere,” says Holston, who recently revamped his closet to accommodate his wardrobe — a mix of bold and sleek pieces that are sometimes more out there, but always on point.

After all, he says, fashion is about “making it work for you.” Here’s how he does it in D.C.

District Fray: How has men’s fashion in the District changed since you started DCFashion Fool?

Barnette Holston: We used to see more of a uniform — black or charcoal suits and white shirts. There was no real individuality. Even men who worked at law firms would be flashy with their ties, but never their suits. Things shifted to leisure: khakis and polos. Today, there’s a trend toward casualwear because people are working from home. But there’s also a huge creative environment here. So, if guys are wearing suits, it expresses personality — with a pattern or a more casual cut. They’re wearing suits because they want to, not because they have to. And they’re embracing more fun, funky clothing, which has become more acceptable.

Where can men find unique pieces?

Relish in Georgetown added menswear [in fall 2022], and they’ve curated a pretty good collection. It’s edgy, and I know that if I buy a sweater there, I’m not going to see the same one 30,000 other places. The inventory is small, so if you don’t get it, you don’t get it.

You admit to an expensive shoe habit. Favorite footwear boutique?

Sky Valet Shoes in CityCenterDC has a great selection of higher-end dress shoes. The owner is awesome. When you look at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, they’re a little sneaker-heavy. I don’t wear sneakers that much, but they’re a big draw in D.C. There’s also some brands that aren’t in D.C. that I like, such as Taft.

What about accessories?

For funky ties, I like Paul Stuart at CityCenterDC because I’m big into color and patterns. There was a guy who used to have a shop at [Reagan] National Airport with the best cufflinks. Weirdly enough, there’s a kiosk at Pentagon City with cool hats. Nordstrom seems to have a good hat selection, too.

Any other unexpected spots?

I’ve become obsessed with Banana Republic ever since they made the shift to more upscale. The prices haven’t gone up, and they still have that mall mentality — the stuff is always on sale.

Photos by Andria Stafford.

Do you have a summer look yet?

One of the things you’ll be seeing is a mint green Thom Browne suit. I bought all the pieces — the pants, the skirt, the sweater, the jacket. I can mix and match.

How can a D.C. man define his style?

Find somebody whose style you admire and look at that. See how they put stuff together. Or, here in D.C., we have Hyde Closet boxes, where they put together looks for you. It doesn’t work for me because I don’t want somebody picking out my looks. But for some people, it’s a good idea. And then go through magazines, Instagram. What I will say about Instagram is you’re going to come across stuff you’re not going to see in D.C., and then my question is: Would you wear it in D.C.? For me, a lot of times, I’m like, yeah.

Sum up men’s fashion today in D.C.

There’s a lot of well-dressed men in this city. You see them in well-tailored suits all over town. Some can rock a mean casual style, while others are artsy creatives who tend to

push boundaries. The landscape in Washington is changing, so there’s plenty of room to have an entire town of very distinguished, fashionable men.

Oldest piece of clothing in your closet. My dad’s gray cashmere/wool overcoat he got on Saville Row in London. I believe it’s from the ’50s. Favorite fashionable restaurant. L’Ardente. Excellent food, great spot to be seen and you can get terrific Instagram-worthy shots. Item on your wish list. Thom Browne Mr. Thom Bag — it’s a stunning piece that not everyone has. Plus, my laptop and work would look fantastic in it. Best place in D.C. for gifts. In a pinch, go to Tiffany & Co. You can find things at every price point starting at around $30. Plus, everyone loves a little blue box! Go-to staycation spot. The Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg. I’ve only been once and felt like a king. I need to go back soon.

Learn more about Holston at dcfashionfool.com or follow him at @dcfashionfool.

A Great Today Begins at The Morrow

Located just steps from the bustling NoMa district, The Morrow Hotel was designed by a collection of award-winning architectural design firms. Our chic, brasserie-style restaurant, Le Clou, offers an exceptional dining experience from Michelin-starred chef Nicholas Stefanelli while our celebrated bar, Upstairs at The Morrow, pulses with energy and unparalleled city views. Whether you’re a D.C. local or just planning a visit, there’s always something happening at The Morrow Hotel.