Early Winter Fashion Issue 2011

fashion washington | w inter 2011

after the party Bright dresses, glam tux jackets and other ways to sparkle into the night

Christian Louboutin chats about his red soles, ballet shoes and more

How first ladies past and present decked out the White House for the holidays A PUBLICATION OF

Bethesda’s chicest zone traffics in hip furniture, cool jewels and cupcakes

© D. YURMAN 2011

Midnight MélangeTM Collection

Dulles Town Center 571.434.6540 · Tysons Corner Center 703.584.3101 The Village at Spotsylvania Towne Centre 540.736.1290

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PUBLISHER

Jenny Abramson

Christian Louboutin chats about making feet look sweet.

GENERAL MANAGER

Julie Gunderson EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Many of you dread

Dan Caccavaro EDITOR

Jennifer Barger DESIGN DIRECTOR

Scott McCarthy ART DIRECTORS

Adam Griffiths, Lori Kelley ASSISTANT EDITOR

Katherine Boyle COPY EDITOR

Aimee Goodwin STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Marge Ely CONTRIBUTORS

Erin Cunningham , Erin Hartigan, Cathy Phillips, Alexa Yablonski ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Anne Cynamon, Sheila Daw, Diane DuBois BOUTIQUE ACCOUNT MANAGER

Gayle Pegg ADVERTISING GRAPHIC DESIGN

Kristin Kato,

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Winter’s best party clothes (think sharp suits for him and bright dresses for her) rock both before and after the bash.

Amanda Stefano ADVERTISING PRODUCTION

Mamie Belle, Jamie Richardson, Tara Shlimowitz

ADVERTISING:

(202) 334-5224, 5226, 5228 © 2011 Washington Post Media 1150 15th St. NW Washington, D.C. 20071

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The Kennedys decking the halls at the White House circa 1961.

D.C. winters, with their eerily dark afternoons and snowdrifts that sometimes reach Washington Monument-like heights.

But when the days are shortest, I tend to feel brightest — about bundling up in Alpine sweaters, scoring gifts for loved ones and (best of all!) getting dolled up for holiday parties.

(This year, I bought a tux jacket to pair with bright pants or cocktail dresses.)

Evening options have gone broader and bolder in the past few years, a trend celebrated in our cover story (Page 11), where the Hotel Rouge served as a glamorous backdrop for goddess gowns, taffeta maxi skirts and, yep, one killer, metallic tuxedo jacket.

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I also explore why some women love to dress up and why others panic when the invite says “black-tie” or “semi-formal” (Page 9).

If you don’t need a new ballgown or cocktail dress this season, you can also just go for a pair of dancing shoes, perhaps some stilettos from this month’s interview subject, legendary French designer Christian Louboutin (Page 9). The man known for sexy heels and flashy red soles just came out with a luxe new coffee-table book.

We also dip our toes into winter’s best boot trends (Page 7), from flannel-andleather riding styles to some ruffled suede booties Marie Antoinette would’ve loved.

The best yuletide parties in town happen, of course, at the White House.

(The eggnog is famously strong, and you meet the most interesting people.)

For a glimpse into what kind of decorating and

Bethesda’s best shopping zone boasts cupcakes, chic shoes and killer clutches.

celebrating goes on at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, check out Alexa Yablonski’s piece on Page 5.

If you haven’t finished checking off your holiday list, you might want to head to some of the shops in Bethesda. Erin Hartigan profiles the boutique scene in the hipper-by-the-minute Red Line suburb, where you can pick up everything from designer scarves to a hot-hued Le Creuset pan for your favorite chef.

Enjoy the issue — and have a haute, happy holiday.

If we don’t catch you at a great New Year’s bash, we’ll see you in 2012.

Jennifer Barger, Editor

For information on where to find more copies of FW, please contact Sandra Ballentine at 202-334-5228.

WINTER 2011 | FashionWashington | 3

THE SEASON’S HOT ITEMS AND HIP HAPPENINGS

BOOK SHELF In its 90-year history, the fashion brand that Guccio Gucci founded has dressed starlets (Audrey Hepburn, Diane Kruger), made interlocking G’s into a status symbol and cemented the legend of Tom Ford. The glossy new “Gucci: The Making Of” ($85, Rizzoli) takes stock of it all, using vintage and contemporary photos, pop-up elements and critical reflections on such topics as bamboo handles, loafers and horsebit metalwork.

Getting Some G’s

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Paper Boon

Sceptics who fear touchscreens will replace paper haven’t seen the embossed invitations by THORNWILLOW PRESS (923 16TH

ST. NW; 202-638-2626), which just

launched a shop at the St. Regis Hotel. The bespoke publisher specializes in hand-engraved paper, custom invites and leatherbound books. “We’ve always been tied to Washington,” says founder Luke Ives Pontifell. “We’ve bound notable speeches and have books in permanent collections at the White House.” Our favorite item: D.C.-centric notes ($85 for 10) tailored to local neighborhoods.

This means Adams Morganites can send missives decked with martini glasses; Hill rats get to write on bald eagle cards.

Fuzzy Logic

One part snow bunny, two parts Cold War-era Russian spy, the fur-trimmed bootie has swished back into fashion. Both warmfeeling and hot-looking, styles range from faux, as in Kate Spade’s mock mink-edged beauty (SHOWN, $500, KATE SPADE, 3061

M ST. NW; 202-333-8302), to deca-

dently real, like Bettye Muller’s rabbit-trimmed lace-up wedges, ($295, Sassanova, 1641 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-471-4400).

“They’re a little luxury,” says Sassanova co-owner Sarah Cannova. “They’re like chicken soup for your feet.” But don’t go too Sundance: Pair your furry footwear with dark, opaque tights and a dress or skinny jeans, not ski pants and Fair Isle mittens.

Deutsch Dazzlers

Beautiful women — models, actresses and their ilk — often run around with grizzled rock stars (Hi, Mick!). Maybe it’s the juxtaposition of grace and grit that attracts them? It’s likely the same reason we’re drawn to the prettymeets-punky work of Munich jewelry artist Doerthe Fuchs, whose rhodium-plated, oxidized silver necklaces and scribbly, circular earrings ($890) speak of glamorous nights at Berlin clubs — but also shine for a dinner date in Old Town. Her work, including a tactile, rose quartz-studded necklace (shown, $7,770), headlines at JEWELERS’WERK GALERIE (3319 CADY’S ALLEY NW; 202-337-3319).

CHIC CHAT

What’s a perfectly imperfect space?

Deborah Needleman

One that encourages a happy life. When I look at people’s houses, I want to know if there’s any fun going on.

4 | FashionWashington | WINTER 2011

Watch your super-flexible back, Lululemon! ATHLETA, the yogawear giant’s catalog-only (until now) rival, just opened a 5,000-square-foot Georgetown temple (3229 M ST. NW; 202-4714268) to all clothes running, hiking, skiing and, yes, downwarddogging. Reclaimed barn wood walls and billboard-sized photos of female athletes snowshoeing and jogging decorate a space filled with sporty-chic pieces like yoga camis (shown, $54), quilted snow-ready miniskirts ($89) and equestrian skinny jeans.

“Our customer is an athelete who wants performance but also beautiful clothes,” says Athleta spokeswoman Callie Canfield.

The front hall! It’s so hardworking. You need spots for your mail, trash and coats.

Bella Italia

In Florence, landmarks bearing the name SANTA MARIA NOVELLA include a 1930s train station, a Renaissance basilica and the world’s oldest apothecary. Once financed by Medici royals and supplied by Dominican friars, the 600-yearold perfumery/potion purveyor just opened a shop in Chevy Chase (5454 WISCONSIN AVE.; 240-743-4949).

Here, Tuscan pots, glass shelves and a gleaming wooden library table set the scene for milk soaps, redness-erasing calendula cream ($52) and perfumes ($110-$140) in varieties such as Amber, Hay and Marescialla, a spicy scent named for a French countess who dabbled in sorcery. Home fragrance is also dolce, as in herb potpourri ($30) and rose sachets for your closet.

The book is organized around such topics as “places to chat” and “nice lighting.” Why? I wanted to explain things that are deal breakers to a nice home, like harsh lighting, or if your house is stinky.

What’s the hardest space to decorate?

MELANIE ACEVEDO

The ex-editor of beloved, shuttered shelter magazine Domino helped ignite a decor revolution of breezy contrasts: Eames chairs mixed with Chippendale chests; femme wallpaper combined with deer heads. Her book, “The Perfectly Imperfect Home,” shares her secrets. JENNIFER BARGER

In Style, Out Of Breath

Smell matters?

Deborah Needleman’s new book explains how to perk up your place.

Scent is powerful. It carries memories and emotions.

Well, how do I make my place smell nice?

Even in winter, open the door sometimes and let the air breeze through.

Do you have any decorating don’ts?

A house of dark brown wood furniture is a big mistake people make. It looks like a hotel! Mix it up with painted wood, metal or Lucite.

First lady MichelleObama prefers simple, colorful holiday decor.

LOCAL HERO

Trimmer In Chief ?

WHITE HOUSE PHOTO OFFICE

How the first ladies make holiday decorations glam inside the White House

You think it’s rough untangling icicle

lights? Holidays at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue mean decorating dozens of trees, baking some 2,500 cookies and welcoming more than 100,000 visitors.

Coordinating the festivities falls to the first ladies. Yes, they start planning in February and have lots of help. But managing to deck the White House still seems like a Christmas miracle. After trimming trees for Laura Bush in 2008, Coleen Christian Burke was inspired to pen “Christmas With the First Ladies ($30, Insight). We chatted with her about how first spouses have made things merry and bright. ALE X A YABLONSKI

TANNENBAUM TREATMENT First ladies plan both the White House’s public holiday decorations (numerous trees, oversized gingerbread houses) and those in the private residence, as Nancy Reagan did in 1982.

MasterCard and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated.

RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY

How did you research all the Christmases past?

I could do almost everything from my computer. But it was exciting to get packages [filled with photocopies from the presidential libraries] and not know what was in them.

Sometimes it was a wash; other times I’d get something amazing, like the Kennedys’ Christmas list that included the toys the kids would get.

Do you have a favorite photo in the book?

The Kennedys in Palm Beach, with Caroline dressed as an angel and John-John as a shepherd, with Jackie smoking in the corner in a cool red lounge suit.

Is it challenging to deck the halls at the White House?

The scale is amazing. The ceilings are 22 feet high.

When I was there [in 2008], the grand foyer alone had 14 trees. And the challenge of the Blue Room tree is it’s often covered with ornaments made by people from across the country. Laura Bush had it broken into a grid, with each ornament assigned a coordinate. So if the artist came

“Jimmy Carter signed off on every decoration!” and wanted to see his work, there was someone who could say, “Arkansas, OK. You’re in quadrant five, section D.” Which first lady made the biggest impact on how future ones addressed the holiday season?

Pat Nixon made some incredible lasting impressions. She changed the way Americans were able to tour the White House. She started the candlelight tours [so working people could visit] and made sure that blind children and the handicapped could tour.

Table Talk Love (for his wife Sarah) brought Brit designer Graham Campbell to D.C.; the lack of well-priced home furnishings inspired him to create a collection of mod, eco tables, the District Line.

Were any of the presidents involved in Christmas decorating?

Jimmy Carter signed off on every Christmas decoration!

The official decorating themes seem so old-fashioned! Did anyone do a mod spin on the holiday?

I was struck by Hillary Clinton’s decorating. She oversaw everything, and her ideas were innovative. In 1996, she had white, spidery trees that looked like coral.

I’d never seen anything like them.

In 1961, first lady Jackie Kennedy had the Blue Room tree decorated in a whimsical Nutcracker theme.

PHILOSOPHY

“Apartments in D.C. are small, so tables need to fit,” says Campbell. “You can use mine for everything from stacking books to eating.”

BUY THEM

Bamboo-aluminum styles Embankment (top, $595) and Blackfriars (bottom, $1,550). Homebody, 715 8th St. SE; 202-544-8445; Homebodydc.com

JOHN F. KENNEDY PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM, BOSTON

NOW ACCEPTING This is the beginning of a beautiful friendship MAZZA GALLERIE

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TYSONS GALLERIA

NEIMANMARCUS.COM

|5 WINTER 2011 | FashionWashington 30

Statement necklaces (and bracelets and rings) at good prices star at Loulou.

Suburban Outfitter Bethesda lures hip shoppers and hungry foodies to Md. The words “Bethesda boutique”

might once have conjured images of soccer moms hunting for PTA-meeting outfits. But during the past three years, Bethesda Row has made the area near the Metro station one of the region’s go-to shopping zones. Stuff to score includes French cookware, Belgian beers, European lipsticks and women’s clothing by such names as DVF and Milly. The hottest action clusters along the Row’s promenade, Bethesda Lane. “The concept was modeled after a boulevard in Spain,” says Gretchen Hitchner, owner of Ginger boutique. “The idea was to have this gorgeous street where people could linger at a restaurant, go shopping, where women would hang out with a girlfriend.” Now the Row hosts movie nights, live folk rock and jazz music, fashion shows and — no surprise — plenty of browsers. ERIN HARTIGAN

Bethesda Row, Mar yland ELM STR EET

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BETH ESDA AVE NUE

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Ginger

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Lou Lou 7125 BETHESDA LANE; 301-652-0048

THIS TINY SHOP spills over with wellpriced, often brightly colored accessories that bring out personalities such as prep and boho. This means feathered hair extensions, coral starfish bracelets and a memorable selection of cocktail rings, including chunky turquoise ones that might be visible from space. Bags by Hobo; paisley, ikat scarves; and cat-eye shades add to the mix. For a flashy statement, try a pair of ’80s-fab dangling earrings.

LA N E

7114 BETHESDA LANE; 301-664-9242

OWNER GRETCHEN HITCHNER stocks her shop with polished, work-ready womenswear — much of it with an eco bent — including flowing blouses by Joie; bold tops from Madison Marcus; bright, printed Tracy Reese dresses; shifts from Yoana Baraschi; and delicate jewelry from local designer Suzanne Somersall. The decor — a bright blend of bamboo and edgy, artsy window displays — summons visions of Brooklyn or San Fran.

HI, SUGAR

We love: his chunky cardigan, rolled jeans and rugged lace-up boots.

Old-school round glasses add to the retro, “Are-we-inBrooklyn?” vibe.

Urban Country

Photo taken by Curator of D.C. Style. See other well-dressed locals on his blog, Curatorofdc style.com.

7117 ARLINGTON ROAD; 301-654-0500

THESE DAYS, country has two-stepped into much

hipper territory, on full display at this industrial-chic showroom. Weathered dining room hutches, duvets in faded blue prints, and crisply tailored chairs in eco-friendly fabrics keep company with one-of-a-kind finds such as a refurbished map cabinet (use it to store linens). You can also invest temporarily: The shop offers real estate staging using its minimal, organic pieces.

Do the lines of tourists at the M Street flagship of Georgetown Cupcake make you want to rub icing in your eyes? Less-patient seekers of confectionery bliss can head to this Bethesda Row branch of the bakery, where, on a recent weekday afternoon, a mere five people stood in line. Seasonal flavors include pumpkin spice and eggnog. 4834 Bethesda Ave.; 301907-8900

Mussel Bar Bluemercury

Luna

Le Creuset 7116 BETHESDA LANE; 301-718-1885

FOR INSTANT COLOR in the kitchen, France’s popular enameled cookware line offers Dutch ovens, grill pans and Moroccan-style tagines in 18 hues, including Flame (the classic burnt-orange) to the new mossy green Fennel (shown). Aproned foodie sales clerks can suggest which pot suits, say, roasting a goose.

7262 WOODMONT AVE.; 301-215-7817

7232 WOODMONT AVE.; 301-656-1111

7105 BETHESDA LANE; 301-986-0070

THERE’S A SOUTHERN ACCENT — as in girly and

WITH WALLS LINED with

alchemic bottles and brightly colored perfumes, this haute beauty supply boutique specializes in skin care, perfume and cosmetic products by culty labels like ReVive, Acqua di Parma and Diptyque. Top sellers include Dennis Gross Skincare’s self-tanning Alpha Beta Glow Pads ($32) and Laura Mercier’s easy-to-apply caviar stick eye color ($24).

bright — at this branch of the Atlanta-based chainlet.

That means everything from Velvet’s faux-fur bomber to dark, flared DL1961 jeans.

Accessories also come across as flirtatious — think Art Deco-style statement jewelry by Nicole Richie’s House of Harlow and long, drapey scarves.

OTHER HAUTE STOPS

Cork & Fork: A family of French winemakers owns and operates this vino shop, which sells a variety of styles and a wide selection of Champagne. 7110 Bethesda Lane; 301-841-7204

BIVALVES, NOT BICEPS,

Amethyst: A petite jewelry store sells contemporary, indie designs, including gems by co-owner Amy Hugo and travelinspired pieces by Lauren Harper. 4808 Bethesda Ave.; 301-907-6871

inspired the name of Brabo and Brasserie Beck chef Robert Wiedmaier’s latest venture: a pubby, casual Belgian spot where beerbottle chandeliers and roughhewn tables set the scene for garlicky moules in sauces such as curry or tikka masala. And it’s not totally shellfish — you can also tuck into addictive Belgian tartes topped with spicy pork sausage or caramelized onions, or sip — what else? — Belgian brews.

Sassanova: Kick into this posh boutique for buttery Loeffler Randall wedge boots, chunky Marais heels and ribboned Kate Spade kitten pumps. 7134 Bethesda Lane; 301-654-7403

SAVE THE DATES

The Glitter Patrol Marlene Hu Aldaba, the energetic, edgy owner of Hu’s Wear (2906 M St. NW; 202-342-2020) knows what most women want for Christmas or Hanukkuh. “It’s jewelry, because it makes such a sentimental gift,” she says. “And even if you don’t like it, the price of gold is so high, you’ll have a piece that’s worth something.” That sensible-yetsweet idea inspired her boutique’s series of holiday jewelry shows, with designers in attendance.

ERIN CUNNINGHAM

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JESSICA BIALES DEC. 8-11

Digital artist-turnedjewelry creator Jessica Biales works matte gold into geometric shapes both trad (signet ring, top, $2,000) and contempo (wave band, bottom, $1,500). Some styles are embedded with gems; all work well “when stacked in endless combinations,” says Hu Aldaba.

NIKKI BAKER

DEC. 15-18

For her Gioielli line, Los Angeles designer Nikki Baker mixes delicate gems with sinewy metal for statement styles such as emeraldcut earrings in stones such as citrine and blue topaz (left, $195 a pair) and a howlite necklace (right, $225) fit for latterday Cleopatras.

WaPo FW, Res No: 1126314505 1/4 PAGE VERT 5.5" x 9.75"

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Boot Force

Cowboys, pirates and a certain cartoon cat

3 3 0 7 C A D Y ' S A L L E Y, N W, G E O R G E T O W N , W A S H I N G T O N D C

(202) 339-9885

voiced by Antonio Banderas all know the power of a rocking boot. Winter’s warmest, most wickedly stylish options can both elevate outfits and keep your feet from freezing. “I’ve seen people wear Frye boots with cocktail dresses,� says Jen Marfino of Arlington’s ShoeFly. “If you have the right boot, whether it’s a bootie or a tall one, you can go anywhere.� JENNIFER BARGER

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GET A LEG UP ON WINTER

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1. A faux-fur lining makes Kara Brown’s knee-

skimmers a great choice for sub-30-degree days ($275; Zelaya Shoes, 4940 St. Elmo Ave., Bethesda; 301-656-8550). 2. Dusky fabric and dark leather lend Delman’s riding boots a hunt-country edge ($595; Shoe Hive, 127 S. Fairfax St., Alexandria; 703-548-7105).

3. Kickers’ short, retro booties pair well with leggings or cuffed pants ($168; ShoeFly, 2727 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-243-6490).

4. Winter’s edgiest neutral hue gets luxe in Chie Mihara’s suede number ($395, Zelaya).

5. Tsubo’s high-heeled booties are comfier than they look, thanks to an elevated front ($229; Carbon, 2643 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202-232-6645). 6. Simply snap off the spats of Lilly Bee’s riding boots to get a smart shortie ($295, Simplysoles.com).

7. Buckles and a higher-than-expected heel elevate Holding Horses’ equine style ($268, Anthropologie.com). 8. Fabric rosettes mesh with suede on Beverly Feldman’s romantic boots ($425; Periwinkle, 1557 Potomac Greens Drive, Alexandria; 703-519-5242).

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WINTER 2011 | FashionWashington | 7

comfort + Joy

“We get so stressed every holiday and leave our shopping to the last minute. Last Spring, we decided to find the most fabulous holiday gifts to personally give to our friends and loved ones. In doing so, we thought you would also enjoy our favorite gift ideas: to give or to get.”

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Major Chair (available in January) 29”w x 33”d x 32”h in cool white vinelle ($1560) $1145, Marshall Pull-Up Table (available in January) 12.75” diameter x 17”h $370, Concord 8’x10’ Rug (available in January) in white $1595. 1. Indulgent and soothing mini bar soaps in assorted scents $25 per box of 5 2. Welcoming scents from our soothing candles $55 each 3. Decadent chocolates from our favorite chocolatier, multi-tiered boxes of dark and milk chocolate confections 2-Tier Box: $45 4-Tier Box: $85 4. Luxurious throws, 100% baby alpaca, better than cashmere $385 each.

1526 14th Street NW / BTW P & Q Streets Washington, DC / 202.332.3433 Mon thru Fri: 10am to 8pm, Sat: 10am to 6pm, Sun: 11am to 6pm Convenient Daily Parking from 10am to 6pm www.mgbwhome.com

Christian Louboutin Summerissima heel ($1,245, Neiman Marcus, Mazza Gallerie, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202966-9700)

L’Agence’s holiday dresses (sold at Barneys.com) would make you stand out at a party — in a good way.

A Finery Frenzy

Christian Louboutin Loubi Zeppa wedge ($1,095, Neiman Marcus)

Why does dressing up terrify some women?

Stylish photos of sexy shoes, pop-ups and a biography of the French shoe designer fill his new book.

King of the Heel

of shoes, the type of height we see now once existed only in fantasies. But a bigger perspective is one of geography. I have stores on five continents, and the social behavior is related to where you live. In Los Angeles, the shoes are higher because people are not walking, like in, say, New York.

Christian Louboutin looks back on 20 years of sultry shoes

During two decades in fashion, Parisian footwear designer Christian Louboutin’s sky-high stilettos have earned him the love and closet space of countless women.

He trademarked his red sole in 1994 (which is currently under dispute in federal court), but his designs appeal as much for their graceful, balletic shapes as that flash of scarlet.

His new coffee-table book, “Christian Louboutin” ($150, Rizzoli), chronicles his life and the stories behind his prettiest styles. K ATHERINE BOYLE Why did you decide to do this book?

Well, it was because of the editor. He’s a French writer, and he wanted me to speak about my shoes. We had a dialogue about more than fashion. It became this book.

Are you excited that your shoes will be in a museum exhibit [at London’s Design Museum, opening in March 2012]?

I never thought my shoes would become art, but it’s flattering to imagine you are participating in fashion history. I was throwing everything out, and so many people said, “One day, you may want to see these photos, the designs.” Now, I’m happy to have kept some things.

What’s it like to have invented one of fashion’s icons, the red sole?

If you follow your heart, things like this just happen.

I never thought, “I need to do something major,” it just happened. It was surprising from day one, in 1994, when it became my signature. Since then, people don’t know my name, but they say, “You’re the man with the red sole!”

What is the proudest moment of your career?

I did the shoes for the last couture show of Yves Saint Laurent. He resigned from designing after.

Which icons would you like to see in your shoes?

Marlene Dietrich from the front and Marilyn Monroe from the back. My shoes have two elements. Dietrich’s elegance, the way she crossed her legs, was perfect.

And Marilyn Monroe had this whole way of walking and moving which was exceptional.

Christian Louboutin Trash Zebra stiletto ($1,345, Neiman Marcus)

Have shoes changed in the past few decades?

If you look at the history

And what do you think your high heels do for women?

I have always been close to dancers, particularly dancers en pointe. A higher heel, like the women en pointe, puts them closer to the sky. There is nothing more beautiful.

“I could definitely see Madame Obama wearing my shoes.

I would be happy and proud and would have a big cheer!”

The Eclectic Company

“People here don’t always feel free to stand out based on appearance.”

“Everyday wear is so casual now that dressing up can feel uncomfortable,” says D.C. stylist Kaarin Moore of Closet Caucus (Closetcaucus.com). “But plan a little, make shopping for clothes an event and dressing for a party doesn’t have to be stressful.”

Indeed, if you act like a latter-day Cinderella (not a frumpy wallflower), you’re likely to feel confident enough to lobby the deputy secretary of labor or strike up a chat with that dashing stranger.

“Every woman should run the risk of being unforgettable,” says Hal Rubenstein, fashion director at InStyle. “They can do that with color or detail, the basic elements of getting noticed.” Rubenstein’s new book, “100 Unforgettable Dresses” ($35, Harper Design), acts as a sort of primer for looking captivating (and captivating the paparazzi), with photos of women in frocks that rocked: Elizabeth Hurley in that Versace safety-pin dress, Jackie Kennedy in a pink gown.

Maybe I’ll get Mallor y a copy of Rubenstein’s book for Christmas. Those military guys could use a little dazzling, I think. JENNIFER BARGER

BACKSTORY

COUNTER TALK

U Street NW — already a favorite stomping ground of vintageloving nesters (see GoodWood at #1428 and Millennium at #1528) — just landed another old-is-cool souk. Foundry, a bright, lowerlevel store, shelters furniture and accessories that seem nabbed (and then rehabbed) from a chic granny’s attic. JENNIFER BARGER

BEST BUYS

Mid 20th-century alarm clocks (shown); vintage metal gym weights ($5-$8) to repurpose as desk accessories or bookends; weathered wooden theater seats ($325) from some long-shuttered cinema.

At defense industry black ties, my friend Mallory* (name changed to her protect her high security clearance) reaches for what she calls her “prissy prom dress.” It’s black, long, not revealing and notable mainly for being unnoticeable. “At these parties, it’s not about me,” she says. “I’m working, and the focus shouldn’t be on my cleavage.”

In a city where congressional districts are redrawn at Capitol Hill balls and cocktail soirees feel like boozy job fairs, it’s easy to see why many women, even during the holidays, gravitate toward no-flash finery.

“I think people here don’t always feel free to stand out based on appearance,” says Kristen Guiter, who prefers eye-popping vintage gowns at the parties she goes to as vice president of communications and marketing at the Corcoran Gallery of Art. “Women fear they’ll be labeled as all style and no substance. But I reject that!”

Owner Yvette Freeman fills a space of sea grass-carpeted floors with unusualyet-useable pieces. “I’m a picker,” she says. “I go to auctions, estate sales, everywhere. It’s about finding objects that tell a story.” We’d love to hear the tales behind a clubby, 1970s Chesterfield leather sofa ($1,240), old steamer trunks ($95) and an aged “Delicatessen” sign ($995). Freeman also reupholsters vintage chairs in linen, velvet (shown) and fuzzy cowhide.

EXTRA, EXTRA

Foundr y OPEN THU

1522 U ST. NW; 571-277-524 RS.-SUN ., 11 A.M .–7 P.M .

5;

If you buy a gift here, Freeman will wrap it gratis in butcher paper, tie it with twine and trim it with a vintage metal key.

WINTER 2011 | FashionWashington | 9

Begin your own tradition.

Something truly precious holds its beauty forever.

Twenty˜ 4Ž steel Ref. 4910/10A, white gold ring.

bewitchinghour Dazzle at holiday parties (and into the night) in jewel-tone dresses, sparkling separates and splashy, oversized gems Text

Jennifer Barger

Styling

Cathy Phillips

Photos

Marge Ely

WINTER 2011 | FashionWashington | 11

if

there’s one theme to this winter’s fête wear, it’s that, for once, women can be both glam and comfortable.

Beading on sweatshirts. Gem-hued dresses in flowing, goddessy shapes.

Tuxedo pants and jackets borrowed from the boys but cut for the girls.

“As glitz and sequins have hit everyday clothes, it’s really changed cocktail wear,” says Arlington personal shopper Wendy Pilch (Spendalla.com). “Statement jewelry can even be your ‘outfit’ for a party.”

And think outside the ballroom for unexpected, edgy combinations: a taffeta maxi skirt with a fitted T-shirt; skinny, dark jeans fancied up with, “show-stopping shoes, like the red sequined pumps J. Crew has right now,” says Pilch. Just don’t be surprised if you look and feel so seasonal you stay out way past the end of the party, maybe at the bar at the just-remodeled Hotel Rouge, where we shot this story.

Above: Ana Maria goes cocktail cool in a Rachel Zoe sparkling blazer ($295, Bloomingdale’s), a Cynthia Steffe shell ($295, Bloomingdale’s), Mother’s metallic jeans ($225, Hu’s Wear) and Iradj Moini topaz, citrine and pearl dangle earrings (Tabandeh, $580).

“As Previous page: Ana Maria stuns in a Badgley Mischka gown ($990, Neiman Marcus, Mazza Gallerie, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-9669700) and a dramatic, chunky geode necklace ($1,400, Charm, 2910 M St. NW; 202-298-0420).

it’s really changed cocktail wear.”

Above: Ana Maria wears an Alexander McQueen dress ($1,885, Hu’s Wear, 2906 M St. NW; 202-342-2020), Kate Spade pumps ($325, Kate Spade, 3061 M St. NW; 202-3338302), a fur shrug ($2,900, Tabandeh, Mazza Gallerie, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-2440777). Philip sports a Hart Schaffner Marx tuxedo ($950, The Streets, 1254 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-295-9098) and Ferragamo slip ons ($530, Neiman Marcus).

on the cover

Above: Ana Maria dons a 3.1 Phillip Lim silk shift ($525, Muleh, 1831 14th St. NW; 202-667-3440), an amber, emerald and ruby ring and a purple necklace ($950 and $235, Tabandeh).

Above: Ana Maria kicks back with Philip after the festivities in a Tadashi Shoji sequined dress ($328, Bloomingdale’s, 5300 Western Ave.; Chevy Chase; 240-744-3700), a green lamb coat ($2,175, Relish, 3312 Cady’s Alley NW; 202-3335343), Shoe Hive earrings ($245, Shoe Hive, 127 S. Fairfax St., Alexandria; 703-548-7105), Elizabeth & James heels ($325, Sassanova, 1641 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-4714400) and a silver oval ring ($680, Tabandeh).

12 | FashionWashington | WINTER 2011

glitz&sequins have hit everyday clothes,

Credits Models: T.H.E. Artists Agency Hair and makeup: Patti Nelson Digital tech: Jim Osen Photo assistant: Dave Buchanan Special thanks: Sarah Horner, Kimpton Hotels

Right: The hostess gown goes 21st-century via a Theory T-shirt ($170, Neiman Marcus), an Anne Cramer taffeta maxi skirt ($280, Periwinkle, 1557 Potomac Greens Drive, Alexandria; 703-519-5242), an emerald-flourite necklace and fringed bracelets ($2,650 and $680 each, Tabandeh).

WINTER 2011 | FashionWashington | 13

THE BEST OF WHO, WHAT AND WEAR

Wearing: A dress by local designer Artistic AYA Dana Greaves and a vintage, heart-shaped, red sequin clutch.

Maxine Champion Lawyer

Wearing: A vintage ensemble she bought decades ago on her annual shopping trip to Paris.

Steffen Jacobsen Brenda Jacobsen Lawyer CPA

He wears: A suit from Bonobos and Duckie Brown loafers.

Corcoran Gallery of Art’s NOW at Night OCTOBER 21, 2011; CORCORAN GALLERY OF ART

She wears: A hat from Proper Topper, a Calypso satin dress and Louboutin kitten heels.

Jeanose Lexima Local designer

We love:

Rodrigo Beze

Beatrice Gralton

Wearing: A dark gray Prada shirt with custom Hugo Boss blazer, Armani jeans and Puma shoes.

Wearing: A Vivienne Westwood dress paired with gold platform sandals.

Architect

The dress she designed for herself, sewn from fabric bought on a trip to West Africa.

Curator

Electric violins blazed along with the music mixes (and multi-media presentations) of DJ Spooky at The Corcoran Gallery of Art’s annual gala benefitting emerging artists. Partygoers also enjoyed the enormous, oversized abstract works of artist Chris Martin and “30 Americans,” a show of pieces by contemporary African-American painters, sculptors and video artists. Also on display: hip cocktail frocks, lots of funky evening shoes and guys in well-cut sport coats — often without ties.

KBoots KDenim KLeather Men & Women

Luchese Liberty Black Jack & more Hudson Citizens of Humanity Laguna Beach Miss Me Rock Revival Hoss Couture Affliction & more Scully & Wilda

Denim

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Boots

Rachel Cothran

Project Beltway blogger

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Leather

Wedding Planner at washingtonpost.com/ weddingplanner

Bull Run Boots 10884 Sudley Manor Drive Manassas, VA 20109 703-330-8118 • BullRunBoots.com

What’s in Store

Only p find s lace to p r e m o m a ny ium in one brands s tore !

calendar of advertiser and editorial fashion selections

December 2011

December — Babette’s winter sale starts on Thursday, Dec. 15. Basics 2012 Collection is coming to stores and will be available year round. 3307 Cady’s Alley NW; 202-339-9885; babettesf.com.

December 1-20 — Enjoy drinks and refreshments as you browse Adeler Jewelers’ newly expanded, twostory show room. Showcases are overflowing with oneof-a-kind designs featuring exotic gemstones, luminous pearls, ancient coins and brilliant diamonds. The Holiday Countdown to Savings Promotion is currently in effect – visit AdelerJewelers.com/calendar for more details.

772-E Walker Rd.; 703-759-4076.

December 2-23 — Family Fridays at South Moon Under’s National Harbor location. 10% off purchases after 5 p.m. 100 American Way; 301-567-0511; southmoonunder.com.

December 3-24 — DJ Saturday Nights at South Moon Under’s Clarendon location. 2700 Clarendon Blvd.; 703-807-4083; southmoonunder.com.

December 8-9 — Verdura trunk show. This iconic fine jewelry line is inspired by the museum collection of

14 | FashionWashington | WINTER 2011

Verdura pieces designed by Fulco di Verdura and Coco Chanel. Neiman Marcus; 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-966-6114; mazzagallerie.com.

December 8-9 — Ippolita trunk show. View the stunning collections of fine jewelry from the Italian designer whose background as a sculptor adds a subtle artistic essence to every bangle, earring and necklace. The unique hue of gold alloy, rosé, silver, and beautiful stones from around the world complete every outfit, both day and evening. Neiman Marcus; 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-966-6114; mazzagallerie.com.

December 9-20 — Merriment in Georgetown.

Celebrate the holiday season with 12 days of special store sales and events, seasonal festivities, live entertainment, holiday activities and more. Throughout Georgetown. merrimentingeorgetown.com.

December 12 – 13 — AKRIS Spring 2012 Trunk Show.

View the Akris Spring 2012 Collection and enjoy informal modeling on Dec. 12 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saks Fifth Avenue Chevy Chase. For more information or to book your appointment, please call 240-497-5292. 5555 Wisconsin Ave.; saksfifthavenue.com.

PHOTOS BY ABBY GREENAWALT

Exclusive Trunk Show

December 16-17th

Meet the Designer

December 9-10th

Mazza Gallerie 2nd Floor 5300 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Washington, DC 202-363-5432 Also available at our Willard Hotel location by appointment 1400 F Street NW, Washington, DC 202-737-4757 WWW.CHASSCHWARTZJEWELERS.COM

there is a Yes,Virginia,Santa Claus!

He exists as certainly as love & generosity & devotion exist, and now more than ever, there are a million reasons to believe in the Magic of the season.

This holiday, bring your stamped letter to Macy’s, addressed to Santa At The North Pole, and drop it into our special Santa letterbox. We’ll count them up and for each letter received, we’ll donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation®, up to $1,000,000. Then, we’ll bring them to the Post Office for mailing to Santa and together, we can collect a million reasons to believe. To learn more, visit macys.com/believe Don’t miss this season’s traditional animated classic based on the timeless true story that inspired a whole new spirit of believing! Yes, Virginia will air on CBS-TV, Friday, December 9. Check your local listings.

Macy’s declares Friday, December 9, National Believe Day.

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FASHION WASHINGTON MAGAZINE (Dec issue) - Single

Job #: 34322_M1110063B

TRIM: 0 BLEED: 0 Art Dir: Marie (x: 7897)

SAFETY/LIVE AREA: 11.25” x 20” Live Matter Area only Ad Writer: taylor (x:xxxx) Coord: Bessie (x:5494)

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