GIFT GUIDE
Check off your holiday list with jeweled bags, wood robots and more
FA S H I O N WA S H I N G T O N | FA L L 2 0 1 1
Diane von Furstenberg chats about starting a wrap-dress revolution Move over, GQ! Why gentlemen prefer blogs for sartorial advice
GIRLS WILL BE BOYS Women’s fashion goes mad for menswear with leather bombers, luxe tuxes and tweeds
A PUBLICATION OF
Washington’s Largest Estate Jewelry Collection Victorian - Art Deco - Retro
Always something new that’s Vintage! Estate Events November 6-13th
Mazza Gallerie 2nd Floor 5300 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Washington, DC 202-363-5432
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PUBLISHER
Jenny Abramson GENERAL MANAGER
Julie Gunderson EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
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Great presents for kiddos, men, women and haute nesters
I love girly clothes
Dan Caccavaro EDITOR
Jennifer Barger DESIGN DIRECTOR
Scott McCarthy ART DIRECTORS
Adam Griffiths, Lori Kelley ASSISTANT EDITOR
Katherine Boyle STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Marge Ely INTERN
Erin Cunningham CONTRIBUTORS
Abby Greenawalt, Beth Luberecki, Cathy Phillips ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Anne Cynamon, Sheila Daw, Diane DuBois BOUTIQUE ACCOUNT MANAGER
Gayle Pegg ADVERTISING GRAPHIC DESIGN
Kristin Kato, Amanda Stefano ADVERTISING PRODUCTION
Mamie Belle, Jamie Richardson, Tara Shlimowitz
COVER STORY Menswear isn’t all about “Mad Men”-era tweeds. Flashback to 1980s punkers in a Stella McCartney mock-leather coat ($1,935, Neiman Marcus), a Parker silk shirt ($196, Urban Chic), a leather jacket ($360, Betsy Fisher), a Tracy Reese leather skirt ($495, Periwinkle) and Stephen Webster’s rhodium and cubic zirconia necklace ($650, Tiny Jewel Box). For store details, see the story beginning on page 12. Styling by Cathy Phillips. Photo by Marge Ely.
ADVERTISING:
(202) 334-5224, 5226, 5228 © 2011 Washington Post Media 1150 15th St. NW Washington, D.C. 20071 For information on where to find more copies of FW, please contact Sandra Ballentine at 202-334-5228.
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Slither into snake jewelry, python-print skirts, anaconda-patterned flats and other serpentine styles.
as much as the next Audrey Hepburn/Alexa Chung idolizing woman. But ever since I saw Diane Keaton in “Annie Hall” on TV in the 1980s, I’ve craved the swagger of menswear for women: tweedy, wide-legged pants, slim oxfords with French cuffs, even Grandpa-ish sweaters. That the teenage me tried to mimic Keaton’s vibe by wearing my professor father’s way-too-big corduroy jackets to high school seems beside the point: I was hooked enough that I still use his old ties to belt my boyfriend jeans. This fall, the sort of macho-gone-pretty pieces that gave Keaton both sauntering style and sensuality returned to the runway as punky, 1980s-ish leather
coats, Bogey-meets-Bacall fedoras and tuxes that’d make YSL swoon. Maybe designers were paying tribute to modern women (Tilda Swinton, Hillary Clinton) who don’t think femininity always means a dress. Or perhaps this is a piggyback effect of the heritage movement in menswear. Either way, we feature a Savile Row-worthy slew of well-cut trousers, slouchy sweaters and bowed blouses in this issue’s cover story (page 12). But fashion is often a study in opposites, which is why this edition also gets up-close and chatty with one of America’s most feminine designers, Diane von Furstenberg (page 7). The enduring queen of the exotic print and the work-ready wrap dress proves that you can also feel powerful when dressed like a lady. This fall, men matter, too, especially with two major stores for them just
arrived in Georgetown, The Streets and Jack Spade, both of which we cover on page 4. These trad-gone-rad outposts exemplify a bigger trend: Guys, after years of sartorial snoozing, are once again into clothes, thanks to increasingly savvy retailers and a hoard of men’s style blogs. We delve into the latter on page 5, proving that the guy across the cubicle from you might be a closet Thesartorialist.com fanatic. You’ll find all this, plus our guide to the best holiday gifts (page 9) and tips on how country interiors can be hip, in this issue. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed putting it together.
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Designer Diane von Furstenberg dishes on her new perfume, the wrap dress and why she’s the hottest grandma in fashion.
Jennifer Barger, Editor
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30 |3 LATE FALL 2011 | FashionWashington
THE SEASON’S HOT ITEMS AND HIP HAPPENINGS
“Madewell likes the same qualities in clothes I do. It’s laid-back cool. I’m drawn to quirky but comfy, so this is a marriage made in heaven.” — ALEXA CHUNG, ON HER NEW COLLABORATION WITH MADEWELL, SOLD AT THE BRAND’S GEORGETOWN SHOP (1237 WISCONSIN AVE. NW.; 202-333-3599).
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Prep Cool
JFK in a rumpled oxford, circa 1946. Grace Kelly in loafers and capris, circa 1954. “Gossip Girl” actors in seersucker, circa last season. Images of classically clad, all-American types crowd “PREPPY: CULTIVATING IVY STYLE” ($45,
RIZZOLI), a history of the trad-yet-
cheeky clothes style. Using historic photos and text, it explores how colleges, sports and retailers like Ralph Lauren influenced the look. An “Evolved Ivy” chapter even delves into nouveau-prep phenoms like Tommy Hilfiger’s “Royal Tennenbaums”-ish ads and Thom Browne’s edgy suits. “There’s been too much skin and bling,” says co-author Doria de La Chapelle. “We return to preppy because it’s immutable and good looking.”
Manhattan On the Metro
To get to the posh accessories of HENRI BENDEL, style mavens used to have to take Acela to Manhattan. But you can now hop the Metro to a new HB at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City (1100 S. HAYES ST., ARLINGTON; 703-
418-1208). Items worth sticking under the tree or into a trademark brown-and-white striped duffle ($495) include cross-body bags (shown, $275), hinged bangles covered in pink or red snakeskin ($175-$315) and cheeky travel bags ($48) marked lingerie, shoes and laundry. No, Fido can’t come with you (like he could to Fifth Ave. HQ), but a Swarovskistudded leash ($298) or brush ($89) might soothe him later.
FRESH FACES
A Shoe Guru
Yes, you can now buy platform peep toes and Katherine Hepburn-esque brogues via giant e-boutiques. But that zaps the joy out of slipping into the new, glam BISHOP BOUTIQUE (815-B KING ST.,
ALEXANDRIA; 571-312-0042). Here,
owner Kelly Ferenc (pictured) has summoned Elizabeth Taylorera Hollywood with a turquoise pouf, shimmery chandeliers and wall-mounted antlers draped with necklaces. “I wanted to make it feel like a walk-in closet,” she says. “I was thinking uber feminine and poppy, kind of like Carrie’s closet from the ‘Sex and the City’ movie.” Footwear (most at less-than-Bradshaw prices) also trends girly, as in All Black flower-decked flats ($115) and Pura Lopez red pumps ($460).
Gentlemen’s Agreement Georgetown, long the bastion of bucks, seersucker and popped collars, is looking more like SoHo, especially if you’re a fashionable guy. Two new menswear stores just opened on Wisconsin Ave. Here’s the scoop.
JACK SPADE
1250 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-333-1905
Known for leather bags and quirky accessories, the straight-edge-with-a-twist retailer (founded by Kate Spade’s husband Andy) fills a white-walled, manyshelved space with old radios and vintage books plus classic menswear: shawl-collar shirts (shown, $245), checkered flap briefcases (shown, $425) and messenger bags in leather and wool (from $395).
4 | FashionWashington | LATE FALL 2011
Tysons’ Luxe Stop
The LOUIS VUITTON flagship on Paris’ Champs-Elysees fills 161,000 square feet with an au courant bag bar and displays of antique trunks. Tysons Galleria’s (2001 INTERNATIONAL DR., MCLEAN, 703-827-7730) new LV store, opening in late November, won’t be that grande, but it will stock a glitzy 3,000-square-foot boutique with the legendary line’s sultry heels (SHOWN, $755), crispyet-cool totes by collaborator Sofia Coppola and iconic monogrammed luggage. Also new at the expanding high-end Virginia shopping center: OMEGA (571-633-9710) with its spendy watches for scuba divers, drivers and wannabes.
Wild as Art
Every Washington trophy wall seems to have a grip-and-grin photo with one POTUS or another. But wry local company NAKED DECOR’S (NAKEDDECOR.COM) new, not-so-wild-kingdom head mounts ($45 each, set of four $149) show you’re more artiste than ambitious. Company designer Supon Phornirunlit was inspired to design busts of elephants, rhinos and other beasts while on safari in Kenya. “They create awareness, but they’re also just cute,” he says. Other items in the line that’d appeal to animal lovers: Silvery stag bookends ($75), pillows decked with close-ups of zebras ($45) and a mini polar bear sculpture ($50) that might impress guests more than that snapshot of you sidled up to Newt Gingrich.
STREETS OF GEORGETOWN
1254 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-295-9098
The days when guys just needed suits for work and polos for weekends are gone. That’s the idea behind this new, loft-like “lab” where shoppers can pick up suiting and separates by HMX brands (Hickey Freeman, Hart Schaffner Marx, Bobby Jones). Stuff that’d win over modern dandies ranges from custom HF suits (from $1,495) and patchwork tweed jackets (shown, $895) to Bobby Jones skinny striped golf shirts ($49.50).
WHAT WE BOUGHT
A Boy and His Blog Web style gurus help guys get hip to bow ties, wing tips and cool brands
He sits at the cubicle across from you. Gregarious and well-groomed, he’s the star on your office’s kickball team. But he’s also a secretive character, hunched over his keyboard, closing windows with the haste of a hunted gazelle. Is he dabbling in soft-core pornography or high-stakes gambling? A secret agent? Arms dealer? EBay overlord? No, there’s a good chance that innocent young dandy is just browsing men’s style blogs.
Gilt MANual Ultimate how-to site has easy-tofollow guides to workwear, guy cosmetics and more. Gilt.com/ giltmanual
Put This On Instructional videos cover grooming, shopping and fashion faux pas like wearing a nice suit with trainers. Putthison.com
Kempt An offshoot of snarky UrbanDaddy, this blog gives fashion scoop and tips on things like dyeing shoes. Getkempt.com
CHRIS MORRIS ILLUSTRATION
There’s one in every workplace.
Long ago, in the old country, males visited trusted tailors for tips on style. In the 20th century, fashionable fellows read lifestyle bibles such as GQ or Esquire in the privacy of their bathrooms; yet even there, a 100-page monthly couldn’t break the standard, sartorial tropes imposed upon them. Man was divided: urban or rural, white- or blue-collared.
stones and hanging it out in the rain is one possible solution,” said John Robert Russell Bedford in the 1965 classic, “The Duke of Bedford’s Book of Snobs.” But times have changed. “Guys today have lost all sense of occasion. They’re not taught to dress for different circumstances,” says Glenn O’Brien, “The Style Guy” columnist at
“Some guys are shy to admit they’re interested in clothes, but we all want to look good.” The valiant wore flourishes (studded cuff links, magenta socks, wide-brimmed fedoras), but, mostly, men dressed like their forefathers, who passed down style heritage like a good pocket watch: “[Suits] have to be new, yet they must look old. Filling the pockets of one’s new suit with
GQ magazine. O’Brien’s newest fashion-cum-philosophical treatise, “How To Be a Man: A Guide to Style and Behavior for the Modern Gentleman” ($25, Rizzoli), links man’s wardrobe downfall to laziness, bad manners and rejection of history. But man, ever the entrepre-
neur, found that the blog is mightier than the sword. The same Web culture that gave way to one-click purchases and 13-year-old viral pop stars preserved a culture of anonymity, a haven for eccentric alter egos once relegated to AOL chat rooms. A nd so t he st yl ish ma n emerged, posting on anonymous forums such as “Ask Andy About Clothes,” a 2001 precursor to menswear blogs, where style enthusiasts debate the construction of calfskin tassel loafers or flap-pocket oxfords. Shortly after, the style blogger arrived, making it hip, or at least socially acceptable, for men to make videos called “How To Wear an Ascot.” Now, independent blogs such as Acontinuouslean.com or Putthison.com offer advice, as do brand offshoots such as UrbanDaddy Kempt (Getkempt. com). “Some guys are shy to admit they’re interested in clothes, but we all want to look good. Men want that information instantly,” says Thestyleblogger.com founder Dan Trepanier. “A magazine will take a few months to publish a story, but bloggers publish within days and give men the vocabulary.” And for men, immediate encyclopedic knowledge is the key for making fashion a masculine endeavor. Chris Hogan of D.C. menswear blog OffthecuffDC. com, finds that men are comfortable talking about clothes, so long as someone gives them the right facts. “Men want context for what they buy,” he says. “That information is now available. It’s not, ‘I’m wearing these jeans because Brad Pitt bought them,’ it’s more, ‘I’m wearing these jeans because they were made in a factory in Raleigh, N.C., using traditional techniques.’” K ATHERINE BOYLE
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1. A necklace color blocks with silk thread and recycled metal ($34, Etsy.com/shop/ OneManTrash). 2. A glass droplet chandelier lends a dressing room femme charm ($399, Potterybarn.com). 3. A Mondrian memo board means you’ll never forget a museum show ($10, Amazon. com). 4. A Rorschach-blot silk dress rocks both for work and after ($390, Hu’s Wear, 2906 M St. NW; 202-342-2020). 4
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south moon under inspiring self expression through the art of fashion
LATE FALL 2011 | FashionWashington | 5
WHAT I'M WEARING
Bright paint on the walls and furniture updates a country room. It’s one of many trad-gone-rad rooms in Annie Selke’s new book, “Fresh American Spaces” ($45, Clarkson Potter).
Country Gets Cool
Rustic style goes hip with mod shapes, hot hues and antiques Chances are, your grandmother’s or mother’s decor was a little bit (or a lot) country. And you might consider yourself a little bit rock ’n’ roll. So there’s no way anything from their living rooms would ever wind up in yours, is there? Take a seat at the farmhouse table, because country is in again. “With the economy lately, people are paring back,” says Amy Rutherford, owner of Red Barn Mercantile in Old Town Alexandria (113 S. Columbus St.; 703-838-0355). “They’re looking at their roots, when times were simpler.” But don’t break out the 1980sera calico prints, oversized plaid couches and lacy curtains just yet. This is Country 2.0, which melds everything from cottage to vintage to industrial influences with Americana looks of the past. That might mean a Shaker-style chair painted bright pink, embroidery details that skew more mod than fussy or pieces with real rural roots. “People are intermixing in a high-end way really rustic, cruddy things that would have been in a barn years ago,” says Lesli DeVito, of the blog My Old Country House (Myoldcountryhousediy.blogspot.com). “People want stuff that has some history, because so much of what we have is new.” To pull off the look, you don’t need to turn your pad into the Little House on the
It’s easier to mix patterns if they're all in the same colors, as in this bedroom from “Fresh American Spaces.”
THE LOOK
Trad with a twist. "I dress conservatively, but use accessories to keep my look hip," says Rempel. This means she uses a Tory Burch bag to amp up her simple skirt and J. Crew cashmere sweater.
Prairie. In fact, a country piece can make a big impact in a contemporary room. “Even with stark, modern places, people like something warm,” says Rutherford. “Find something that speaks to you, that’s old, interesting and may have once had a purpose that’s opposite of what you intend to do now, and find a place for it.” Think old wooden fruit crates used as storage bins or feed sacks turned into table runners. “The days of ‘I’m going to go home to my purely contemporary or purely traditional home’ are moving toward ‘I’m going to a house that makes me feel good and is a reflection of who I am,’” says Laura Daily, vice president of merchandising for online retailer Ballard Designs (Ballarddesigns.com).
Pottery Barn’s Exeter Pendant ($129, Pottery barn.com) morphs Mason jars into a funky light.
BOWING, IN
"A belt really completes a look," says Rempel, who owns this versatile patent number she got at Periwinkle (1557 Potomac Greens Dr.; 703-519-5242) in two colors.
WRY TAKE: Forget “God Bless This Country Home.” Crafters are making edgier samplers, like this one ($33, Etsy.com/ shop/bombastitch)
WE LOVE Her Dana Davis cap-toe pumps. "Shoes like this make me feel confident," Rempel says. "These give me personality. Plus, they're comfy."
BETH LUBERECKI
Add barnyard bravado to a table with an antiqueinspired horse sculpture ($149, Ballarddesigns.com).
Add femme hues via Pine Cone Hill's Crewel Aqua Duvet (detail, $308-$504, Red Barn Mercantile, 113 S. Columbus St., Alexandria; 703-838 0355).
A Heel Up
"I start my outfit with the shoes," laughs Kassie Rempel, owner of online and brick-andmortar shoe source Simplysoles. com (see below for locations). Here, she shares secrets to her classic chic. JENNIFER BARGER
A fresh spin on the classic Windsor chair comes in mod black ($449, Wisteria.com).
MANY SPLENDOR
An armful of bracelets from Rempel's fellow Georgetown Park retailer, Fornash, jazz up a neutral outfit.
Block Party: Country can also mean using rustic-yet-beautiful pieces from other cultures, like these photo frames ($30-$38, Trohv, 232 Carroll Ave. NW; 202-829-2941) made from reclaimed Indian printing blocks. Other multi-culti items that mix into casual interiors range from Chinese chests (great with industrial metal) to Turkish carpets (good everywhere). 6 | FashionWashington | LATE FALL 2011
SIMPLY SOLES shoes are at Georgetown Park (3222 M St. NW; 202-232-0072) or at Simplysoles.com. Rempel is launching a new website, Kassiescloset.com, in November that will let customers buy curated outfits.
A True Frock Star Icon Diane von Furstenberg empowers stylistas with wrap dresses, prints and perfume American women probably all owe
designer Diane von Furstenberg a thankyou note. After all, she liberated them from boxy suits in the 1970s with her iconic wrap dresses, made it possible to wear prints without looking like an overstuffed sofa, and now helps vault young designers (Billy Reid, Jason Wu, Rodarte) into the public eye as the president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). But at a very hot 64, she’s not slowing her invariably high-heeled pace. Last year, she launched a tabletop and bedding collection bearing her trademark exotic-meets-elegant prints, and this fall she debuted a new fragrance, Diane (her first since Tatiana debuted in 1975). We chatted with her just after her Spring 2012 runway show in New York. JENNIFER BARGER
Von Furstenberg was born in Belgium, but lives and works in New York. Her Euro-American clothing is sold in numerous D.C. outlets (Bloomingdale’s, Urban Chic)and at Dvf.com.
So what does Diane the perfume smell like? Delicious! I have nothing more personal to offer. It’s got frangipani, which is very clean and optimistic, and violet, which is different and very discreet. It’s very yin and yang. You’re known for prints. How do you do them but not make them frumpy? I teach my designers to make prints with movement. It’s like an animal. Deer, fish and leopards have movement when they walk, and I think that’s key. For Spring 2012, I did prints inspired by modern Africa. What’s it been like heading up the CFDA? It’s been wonderful, because I like the idea of giving back, teaching things and giving away knowledge.
SCENT SENSIBILITY
“Perfume has been a weapon for women since antiquity,” says legendary designer Diane von Furstenberg. She just launched her second-ever scent, Diane ($85-$110, Bloomingdale’s, 5300 Western Ave., Chevy Chase.; 240-744-3700). It’s a blend of frangipani and violet that’s both lush and modern, much like von Furstenberg herself.
What keeps you going after decades in the business? I am still so passionate about what I do. I’m empowering women by making them look beautiful. That keeps me relevant and gives my life a purpose. It’s a nice feeling! You launched a home collection last year. Has that been hard to design? It comes natural to me, because it’s all about prints, colors and living comfortably in this nonformal chic. I think the pieces look bohemian, like things you’ve bought all over the world.
You dress women of a variety of ages — did you ever expect that would be the case? It’s funny, when I was in my early 20s and I designed the wrap dress, my mother, who was in her 40s, wore it. And now I’m a grandmother, and I see them in the showroom, and I think, ‘What a dress, I would buy that!’ It’s kind of a dress for the beginning of your life, but it works later, too. 3 2
How do you dress well as you get older? There are some things I can no longer wear, but I think the most important thing in life is to be confident, to be who you are and the best that you can be. I just try for practical and effortlessly chic. 1
Bright hues and bold patterns star in DVF’s fall bags including a blue hobo ($545, Dvf.com), a printed one ($425, Netaporter. com) and a lemony clutch ($345, Shopbop.com).
1. COLOR BLOCKADE: Metallics meet Mondrian-esque shades in the Darla top ($245; Dvf.com) and Potter pants ($375; Dvf.com). Bag and shoes runway only.
“I am still so passionate about what I do. I’m empowering women by making them look beautiful. That keeps me relevant and gives my life a purpose. It’s a nice feeling!” RUNWAY BESTSELLER
2. RED STAR: Von Furstenberg’s evening wear often references her Studio 54 days in the 1970s, as in the dazzling crimson column Marisa dress ($1,600; Dvf.com). 3. FRANKLY SCARLET: Rusty hues for day include the Marie skirt ($298; Dvf.com), the Floriana silk top ($298; Dvf.com) and fringed boots ($650; Neimanmarcus.com).
She Promised Them a Rose Garden Nancy Reagan adored peonies. Laura Bush wanted Texas wildflowers in daughter Jenna’s wedding bouquets. Michelle Obama leans toward modern posies — orchids, blooming branches. Reading longtime White House floral designer Nancy Clarke’s “My First Lady Nancy Reagan First Ladies” ($22, and former White House floral designer Nancy Clarke Sellers Publishing) discussing arrangements in won’t reveal too many the spring of 1986. dishy, behind-thescenes moments at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. But readers will get sentimental recollections of first families from the Carters through the Obamas, all through the lens of the bouquet arranger-in-chief.
Photos provide a peek into State Dinners and historic events you probably didn’t witness. The 1979 Camp David Peace Accords were brokered around yellow tulips; a 2005 dinner for the prime minister of India had elephant centerpieces formed of green mums. But what’s most interesting here is the mammoth effort Clarke reveals it takes to put on parties at the executive mansion, i.e. months of prepping for Christmas decorations, floral designers sleeping on an air mattresses the night before Obama’s inauguration. She makes creating pretty flowers seem like a job that’s both tough and terrifically rewarding. JENNIFER BARGER
LATE FALL 2011 | FashionWashington | 7
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Judith Leiber’s gem and crystal clutch lets her channel her inner flapper ($5,000, Neiman Marcus, Mazza Gallerie, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-966-9700).
She can channel a film noir heroine while keeping toasty in a wool hat with stylish leaf details ($44, Proper Topper, 1350 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202 842-3055). Semi-rough cut ameythst and green tourmaline mesh on Margoni mod cocktail ring ($2,650, I. Gorman, 1133 20th St. NW; 202-775-8544).
Wrap Stars
Even in this era of e-gift cards and experiential presents, it’s nice to open a box stuffed with something stylish, sleek and new. Here are our suggestions for the best season’s givings. Whether you wrap them up for others or yourself will be our little secret.
Equally glam with jeans or a black cocktail frock: Tory Burch’s satin pumps with blingy heels ($425, Tory Burch, Tysons Galleria, 1734 International Dr., McLean; 703-288-0786).
JENNIFER BARGER
Give your favorite traveler a jersey robe that fits easily in an overnight bag ($92, Bloomer’s, 924 King St., Alexandria; 571-312-0852).
What’s better than this travelready cosmetics case? Stuffing it with tickets to Paris and putting it under the tree or menorah ($72, Proper Topper).
Atelier Zobel’s luxe, modernist cuff combines gold, diamonds and oxidized silver ($4,651, I. Gorman).
FOR HER
Let her deck out her lips and eyes with a Dior Deluxe Palette ($77, Nei-
man Marcus, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202966-9700).
Fill a silk, Asian-style jewelry roll with pearls or a steel necklace for a cool combo gift ($65. M29 LIfestyle, 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW; 202-295-2829).
Leather and canvas combine on a backpack he can lug to work — or on that New Year’s jaunt to Jakarta ($400, M29 Lifestyle).
FOR HIM
Wannabe F. Scott Fitzgeralds or chilly Redskins fans will relish a leather-covered flask ($80, The Hour, 1015 King St., Alexandria; 703-224-4687). Just dandy: Silver and enamel cufflinks dress up tux shirts or workday ones ($130, Thomas Pink, 1127 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202-223-5390).
Add fun to your serious brother’s desk with a retro game set stocked with cards, dominoes and pick-up sticks ($22, Proper Topper).
Watches, back in style even in the era of iPhones, add zip. Cultishly popular ones by Taki work for guys and girls ($80, Homebody, 715 8th St. SE; 202-544-8445).
LATE FALL 2011 | FashionWashington | 9
FOR KIDS
Sure to roll into any kiddo’s list of memorable gifts: A zippy orange scooter ($95, M29 Lifestyle).
Inspire a budding Giselle with a satin and tulle ballet dress ($120, M29 Lifestyle).
That healthy yam-and-kale sandwich will taste better when they eat it from Little Pack Rats’ PVC dino lunch bag ($38, Proper Topper).
Have them restart the Revolutionary War by knocking over fabric soldiers with this whimsical bowling set ($78, Anthropologie.com).
Suede boots impersonate bees (or, not shown, ladybugs and sharks) ($79 each, Zelaya Shoes, 4940 St. Elmo Ave.,Bethesda; 301-656-8550).
Lower tech than any “Iron Man� paraphrenalia, this wooden robot pleases children or techy adults ($38, Proper Topper).
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calendar of advertiser and editorial fashion selections
november 2011 Through December 9 — 2011 DreamHome: Jewel Tones of Design. Eight interior designers use jewelry as inspiration for room dÊcor. Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Free admission. Washington Design Center, 300 D St. SW; dcdesigncenter.com. November 12 — Nordstrom Cosmetics Trend Show. Get updates from industry experts on the latest beauty trends, from makeup to skincare to fragrance. Tickets are $15 and are redeemable towards cosmetics purchase. 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. 8075 Tysons Corner Center; 703-761-1221; nordstrom.com. November 14 — Fashion’s Fight Against MS returns to Washington, D.C., for another glamorous evening of fashion and philanthropy to benefit the National Capital Chapter of the National MS Society. 415 New Jersey Ave., NW; msandyou.org. November 15 — Free People pop-up shop comes to South Moon Under. All stores. southmoonunder.com.
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November 17 — Fashion Fights Poverty benefit event featuring live dance music by high-energy rock band Cold Fronts. 100% of proceeds benefit FFP programs. The Dunes; 1402 Meridian Pl. NW; sinpr.com/ffp. November 18 — Nordstrom Cosmetics. Meet Smashbox’s National Artist Timber Gooding. Space is limited, reserve an appointment. 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. 21090 Dulles Town Circle; 571-434-4000; nordstrom.com. November 25 — Santa arrives at Mazza Gallerie. Visit Santa for wishes and portraits every weekend from 12-5 p.m. and enjoy a festive holiday atmosphere. 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW; mazzagallerie.com. November — Babette is introducing Transition 2011 Collection to complement the Fall Collection and get ready for holidays. Five hand pleated white shirts are perfect for any occasion. 3307 Cady’s Alley NW; babettesf.com.
december 2011 December — Babette Basics 2012 Collection is coming to stores and will be available a year round. Newly invented pleats carry amazing texture and fit perfectly with our colorful accessories. 3307 Cady’s Alley NW; babettesf.com.
FOR HOME
Let them stash their new MacBook Air in Thomas Paul’s downright Luddite linen canvas typewriter pouch ($57, West of Soho, 2613 P St. NW; 202-4501304).
Mad men and women can stir drinks up in a vintage George Briard martini set ($175, The Hour).
A 1920s Indian blanket inspired this Navajo-cool pitcher ($64, Pendleton.com).
A bottle of Chandon’s Étoile bubbly and a tin of U.S.Pointy Snout caviar makes an extra indulgent hostess gift ($150; Chandon.com).
Swirling, Art Nouveau-esque graphics decorate a wool throw stylish enough to go on any couch ($420, M29 Lifestyle).
Print a special photo (maybe an ancestor or Brad Pitt) and present it in this weathered-chic frame ($48, Proper Topper).
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SheWears The Pants in 1966, Yves Saint Laurent shocked a generation of Jackie O
clones when he put a woman in a shapely spin on the standard men’s tuxedo. Le Smoking, as it was aptly named, paved the way for the women’s pantsuit, which blends masculine lines and fabrics with feminine sex appeal. This fall, designers mined the boy’s club swagger of wide-legged pants, grandpa sweaters and power blazers. “Menswear exudes power and confidence,” says celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe, who claims to be living in tuxedo jackets and fitted pants for fall. “It’s a way to be sexy in a subtle way, without revealing too much.”
Text by Katherine Boyle | Styled by Cathy Phillips | Photos by Marge Ely
Left: Pavlina wears a camel Akris Punto cardigan ($995) and teal trousers by Piazza Sempione ($395, both Neiman Marcus, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-966-9700). Pair them with school girl-cool Moschino Cheap and Chic booties ($199) and a brass cuff ($80, both Sassanova, 1641 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202-471-4400), a Salvador necklace by Dannijo ($98, Dannijo.com) and a cap by Lola Hats Brooklyn ($265, Neiman Marcus).
Left: Channel Dietrich and YSL in Stella McCartney's dapper black studded vest ($955), silk cream tuxedo jacket ($1,765) and black pocket square ($45, all Neiman Marcus). Costume pearl earrings ($158, Sassanova).
Above: A macho-meets-edgy shape rules a geometric jacket ($750; Yigal Azrouel New York, Hu’s Wear, 2906 M St. NW; 202-342-2020), shown with a pink Diane von Furstenberg top ($245, Urban Chic, 1626 Wisconsin Ave. NW; 202338-5398) and tux pants ($295, Periwinkle, 1557 Potomac Greens Dr., Alexandria; 703-519-5242). Accessorize with oxfords ($188, Simply Soles, 3222 M St. NW; 202-232-0072), amethyst-silver bangles ($1,515-$1,835) and a vintage purple sapphire ring ($20,000, all Tiny Jewel Box, 1147 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202- 393-2747).
Above: Go campus cool in Theory's silk top ($225, Neiman Marcus), plaid wool pants ($228, Anthropologie) and a Beyond Vintage gray cardigan ($196, Urban Chic). Pair them with dangling earrings ($198, Sassanova), Balenciaga burgundy wedge heels ($895, Hu’s Shoes) and Max Mara's cashmere and fur coat (Max Mara, $4,850).
Right: Cookie Johnson boyfriend jeans ($188, Periwinkle) prep up with a Theory blouse ($215), a green tie ($340, both Neiman Marcus) and a Harry Potter-esque blazer ($498, Anthropologie, 3222 M St. NW; 202-337-1363). Pair with a wide-band watch ($2,950, Tiny Jewel Box), green booties by Alberto Fermani ($375, Hu’s Shoes, 3005 M St. NW; 202-342-0202), an oversized red stone ring ($35, Sassanova) and a crocodile-print satchel ($1,050, Max Mara, Tysons Galleria, McLean; 703-556-6962).
Shop The Shoot
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Man, Oh Man: 1. Walter Steiger Opportun lace
pumps bring femme styling to a mannish tuxedo ($795, Barneys.com). 2. A Donna Degan cardigan recalls Grandpa's, but with more ladylike lines. ($270, Betsy Fisher, 1224 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202-785-1975). 3. Vintage men's silk ties go girly in Lilian Asterfield's neck scarf ($105, Lilianasterfield.com). 4. Enamel-on-silver cuff links get their power from flowers ($365, Tiny Jewel Box). 5. Bettye Muller hounds tooth pumps add 1980s glam to macho trousers or a shirtdress($295, Sassanova). 6. A flirty shape gives a plaid skirt sexy librarian appeal ($148, Anthropologie stores). 7. Shoshanna's funnel-neck coat boasts military lines and a femme shape ($450; Urban Chic). 8. Robert Clergerie's navy patent lace-ups rock with skirts or jeans ($495, Hu’s Shoes).
CREDITS Model: CIMA Hair & Make-up: Jill Turnbull, CIMA
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Ted Rossi's metal and python pendant brings Joan Jett toughness to conservative blouses ($188, Betsy Fisher, 1224 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202785-1975).
Tiny sequins form a subtly sexy pattern on a mini dress ($495, All Saints Spitalfields, 3235 M St. NW, 202-595-9828).
Cinch a solid-colored dress with a faux snake obi ($45, Proper Topper, 1350 Connecticue Ave. NW; 202-842-3055).
Come Slither
Snake prints add warmth and wildness to fall fashions Cleopatra made the snake a powerful fashion symbol
back in B.C. Egypt, sporting a sacred cobra on her diadem — and in legend, using one to off herself. And in the 1970s, “Texas cowboys wore rattlesnake boots, and it signaled triumph over adversity,” says Janice Ellinwood, chair of Marymount University’s Department of Fashion Design and Merchandising. This fall, the reptile both dreaded and sometimes deified has slithered back into style, both on actual snakeskin accessories (pumps, purses, jewelry) as well as knitwear, dresses and skirts in scaled-yet-lush prints recalling the hides of everything from anacondas to water moccasins.
A classic shape (hello, Birkin!) gets updated in python-print leather ($895, Kate Spade, 3061 M St. NW; 202-333-8302).
“It’s a non-print print,” says Betsy Fisher, owner of the Dupont Circle boutique that bears her name (1224 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202-785-1975). She’s currently carrying a range of serpentine pieces, from Magaschoni’s moss green and white cashmere scarf ($238) to Ted Rossi’s regal, rocker-ish python skin rings, cuffs and necklaces. “Snakeskin is a neutral that’s really rich and warm, but fresher than the cat prints we’ve been seeing,” she says. “It can even be a nice way of showing an affinity with nature.” The Biblical trouble Eve had with a serpent and an apple, as well as some peoples’ ophidiophobia (fear of snakes) means the mottled pattern carries a bit of danger and edge. “It’s got a sense of toughness, since snakes are such survivors,” says D.C. personal stylist/shop owner Katherine Limon of My Signature Style (Mysignaturelook.com) and the Woodley Park eco-boutique
Carbon (2643 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202-232-6645). Her store currently stocks Diamantina’s dramatic snake-print totes. Still, too many reptilian pieces in one outfit says Britney Spears in Vegas, not successful style hunter. Stick to one scaly piece at a time, whether that’s a tailored skirt or sequined mini dress. “I like a cream sweater dress with a pair of snakeskin booties,” says Limon. “You’re making a strong statement, but you can wear it to work.” “Snake pieces mix best with neutral colors,” says Jennifer Gosselin, general manager for online megastore Piperlime (Piperlime.com), which is crawling with the trend. “An accessory is a pop of fun, and if you’re doing a dress or top, the key is sticking to solid-colored accessories.” And remember, if you walk too far over to the wild side, change is just a matter of shedding some skin. JENNIFER BARGER
Reptile gets reputablelooking on Elie Tahari's chain-strap box bag. The black and white combo goes with nearly everything. ($498. Neiman Marcus, 5300 Wisconsin AAve. NW; 202-966-9700). Argentine leather gets imprinted with serpentine patterns on Diamintina's bucket bag, which can be special ordered in other colors ($378, Carbon, 2643 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202-232-6645).
Wear Ted Rossi's python cuffs on both wrists for some drama ($80-$100, Betsy Fisher). Bettye Muller's loafers in maple, python-print leather rock with pants or short skirts ($295, Simplysoles.com).
SERPENTINE SLEEK When a tame shape (the pencil) meets a wild print (python), the result is a fashion-forward but office-worthy piece like Elie Tahari's knee-length wool skirt ($295, Elie Tahari, Tysons Galleria, McLean, 2001 International Dr.; 571-765-3396). Pair it with a simple black turtleneck or a bright-colored jacket.
WORTH A SPLURGE
Uncommon Scents Nostalgia keeps us warm during the holidays. But it's these new scents that'll keep us smelling nice all winter. Here are our picks, whether your nose leans classical or romantic. K ATHERINE BOYLE
PRADA CANDY This is a sugarcoated, warm and super-sweet surge of caramel with benzoin and vanilla notes. It does indeed smell like a confection, albeit a caloriefree one. rcus.com $80, Neimanma
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CHANEL NO. 19 POUDRE
SHALIMAR PARFUM INITIAL An update on the 1925 classic, this scent's mix of vanilla, amber and citrus softens (but could never replace) the musky, iconic original. nue.com $84, Saksfifthave
$85, Saksfifthave nue.com
The sister fragrance to the 1971 No. 19, the iris-heavy whiff, with soft, powdery notes of white musk, is named for Coco Chanel's August 19th birthday.
THE BEST OF WHO, WHAT AND WEAR
Ibirori Night Out for Indego Africa SEPTEMBER 21, 2011; WOOLLY MAMMOTH THEATRE
Indego Africa’s fall fund-raising gala attracted an eclectic mix of fashions from American and much further afield, ranging from Nicole Miller print dresses to handcrafted jewelry. Attendees came to support the non-profit, which enables women artisans in Rwanda to make fair-trade handicrafts, many of which are sold at boutiques around town. “We’ve partnered with Nicole Miller and Anthropologie, and it’s only the beginning,” said CFO Conor French, wearing an Indego Africa tie by Dannijo. With fair trade cocktails and music by The Method, the night proved a fashion-forward approach to a good cause.
Kathryn Gray
Marketing director
Wearing: Black Theory blazer, Louboutin wedges and a Collective Concepts print dress. Style Philosophy: “The most important thing is to smile!”
Conor French
Ambica Prakash Graphic designer
Sotheby’s Realty
Tom Daley
Elizabeth Brown
Wearing: A handmade white, embellished kurta from her native India. “We have such a strong sense of color,” she said. “I love mixing Indian clothing with Western.”
Wearing: An Etro suit and Testoni leather shoes.
Wearing: Diane von Furstenberg dress, Susana Monaco blazer and large semi-precious stone necklace from Eastern Market.
CFO, Indego Africa
We love:
His just-off-theplane- from- Rwanda style and his Dannijo for Indego Africa tie.
Style Philosophy: Conservative with an emphasis on quality.
National Journal
Ballet Soiree: The Great Gatsby Prohibition Party SEPTEMBER 30, 2011; U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Guests costumed as latter-day flappers and faux bootleggers enjoyed (legal) gin cocktails and performances by Washington Ballet dancers at this benefit for the dance company and salute to its revived performance of “The Great Gatsby,” at Kennedy Center Nov. 2-6. “In many ways ‘Gatsby’ is about amazing jazz music, exuberant optimism and gin-soaked excess,” said the ballet’s artistic director Septime Webre. “What else could one ask for as ingredients for a swell party?” A dance floor overseen by DJ Pitch One drew some inspired moves, including a fair amount of — no surprise — Charlestoning.
Sona Kharatian
Washington Ballet dancer
Wearing: A drapey, 1920sstyle satin ballgown. “I had it custom-made from an old Vogue pattern,” she said.
Chris Cannova Sarah Cannova
Orthpaedic surgeon Co-owner, Sassanova
Chris wears: This year’s must-have pocket square with a Purple Label Ralph Lauren suit. Sarah wears: A Moschino cocktail dress, vintage fur stole and Oscar de la Renta pumps.
Septime Webre
Kitty Skallerup
Washington Ballet Women’s Committee Member
We love:
Her combination of antique (an Art Deco diamond brooch) and au courant (a headband from H&M).
Washington Ballet Artistic Director
Wearing: A Jil Sander suit, Rag & Bone tie and a boater. “It’s a perennial,” said Webre. “I like the architecture of it.”
FW Third Anniversary Party OCT. 13, 2011; MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS SHOWROOM
Your home is as subject to fashion trends —and as in need of classic looks — as your wardrobe. That’s the message put forth at FW’s third anniversary bash during a celeb panel of interior design gurus including Mitchell Gold and Cortney and Robert Novogratz of HGTV’s “Home by Novogratz.” “Matchy-matchy is over,” said D.C. Apartmenttherapy.com blogger Leah Moss, though Gold countered that, “a few matching pieces gives a room a clean look.” Panelist/D.C. interior designer Sally Steponkus warned DIY decorators to “buy the biggest rug you can.” After the panel, guests including Tipper Gore and chef Carla Hall of “The Chew” sipped Voli Vodka cocktails and mingled to DJ Cassidy Karakorn’s sounds.
Kathryn Key
Director of Chanel, Tysons Galleria
Wearing: A pearl-embellished navy and white military blazer, gray and blue tweed dress and black platform stilettos, all by Chanel.
PHOTOS BY ABBY GREENAWALT
Aba Kwawu
Founder, the Aba Agency
We love:
Her classic, cap-sleeve Tahari dress and metallic Tory Burch heels.
Cortney Novogratz Robert Novogratz
Aureta Thomollari
Designer, HGTV star Designer, HGTV star
Blogger, Aureta.typepad.com
Her Style Philosophy: “My fashion reflects my sense in decor. I like mixing vintage and modern.”
We love: Her Dries Van Noten jacket, Celine shirtdress and sequin leggings. She accessorizes with vintage jewelry and Louboutin platforms.
Favorite piece: Robert, in J.Crew, can’t live without his vintage Prada motorcycle jacket.
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