The District

Grey Area: Orly "Mirror, Mirror"

2012-01-30T02:24:00.000-05:00

Muzak: Flight Facilities, "Crave You"

2012-01-28T19:01:00.000-05:00

In Uber We Trust

2012-01-27T15:08:00.001-05:00

In the wake of all the knickers currently in a twist over at the DC Taxicab Commission, Uber decided to rally the troops, as it were, and throw a special happy hour for its patrons.

Upon its arrival, the private car service encountered extreme resistance from Commissioner Ron Linton (who's latest antics to prove Uber's illegality includes a ludicrous sting operation), but DC residents have quickly become fond of this convenient and sleek mode of transport and they're having none of it. CEO Travis Kalanick flew in to the nation's capital yesterday to thank all the Ubertonians for their exuberant support. The level of success that Uber has experienced after just over a month here in DC is what its home base of San Francisco took nine months to achieve. Kalanick showed attendees the impressive stats in a presentation projected onto the glass partitions of Shadow Room's intimate space - a gesture showing just how tech-happy this smartphone app-powered company is. The speech was met with hearty and commending (if not slightly inappropriate) interjections from the crowd; there was an open bar after all. But it's safe to say that the #UberDClove was overflowing ;-)

Here are some lovely individuals who let me stick my camera in their faces and ensembles.
Side note: Those with Y chromosomes primarily made up the crowd. #notcomplaining

Uber CEO Travis Kalanick with Rachel Holt, Head of Uber DC

Kalanick's "Math guys"

Spexy beasts Lori Noto and Eric Schulze of Thirst DC.

Make a wish ;)


Alex Priest, Uber DC's right-hand man, (whom I finally met after having followed each other on zee Twitter for two years.) Any concerns or compliments? Tweet this guy.

May the force be with you, Uber!

Day 'n' Nite

2012-01-24T01:01:00.000-05:00

I'm trying to play "tourist" more often and explore the sights I live so close to. I can't wait to take more snaps when the cherry blossoms bloom!

Flash Style DC

2012-01-22T19:39:00.000-05:00

On Friday night, I experienced a first: a flash mob photo shoot on H Street. Plenty of stylish D.C. denizens descended on Smith Commons to answer the siren call of Kate Warren (GoKateShoot). The mission? To don some spiffy ensembles, merrily imbibe, and perhaps strike a pose (I may have let slip a smirk or two). No one disappointed. Clearly this city loves an excuse to get dressed, and MEAN IT!

Omar McCrimmon (far right) among Kate's stylish mob.

Doin' her thang.

All tied up: Johanna Elsemore.

Eric Schulze, Founder of Thirst DC and Master of the tie clip (see below); The beguiling Cheralee Lyle.

Hello, Phil.

Michelle Ferng (far left) warms up outside's wintry mix with marigold.

Lush Leopard: Elise Peterson clutching a Love, Cortnie creation.

Attention to detail: Eric Schulze

Eliot Payne, accoutre-meow.

Paul Klein: Suspender'd Wonder

An Elise seal of approval perhaps?

Topping off the night with some scrumptious hoagies. Thanks, Eliot (Official Mayor of Taylor Gourmet) :-D.

#wearing: rag and bone leather dress, j.crew necklace, vintage fur coat

Not-So-Safety Cone Orange

2012-01-21T15:08:00.000-05:00

Coco's Corner: OOTD

2012-01-19T22:10:00.000-05:00

After all the begging and pleading I did for her to do an outfit post, Coco finally acquiesced.

Bidkart Malespin Sketch

2012-01-19T01:11:00.000-05:00

I'm still enamored with the sketches Bidkart Malespin did for the brunch place cards! I kind of want to be in illustrated form all the time now...

Curbside Color Convention

2012-01-17T15:32:00.000-05:00

I love this photo of me, Lauren, and Waverly taken by Marshall (The President Wears Prada) outside the Spicy Candy DC brunch. TPWP have a great recap of the brunch too!

#wearing: elizabeth and james dress, dkny tights, christian louboutin pumps, american apparel scarf, rag & bone 'grosvenor' moto jacket

French 75

2012-01-17T14:22:00.000-05:00

{600 14th Street NW/Washington, D.C. 20005}

Bon Anniversaire, SpicyCandyDC

2012-01-15T23:55:00.000-05:00

On Saturday I had the great pleasure of spending the afternoon at Spicy Candy DC's brunch to fête their two year anniversary. The gathering at El Centro also presented the opportunity to see the blog's spankin' new look!

But as much fun as it was to enjoy the delicious food, the devilishly good cocktails, and the delightful company, I hope no one will mind me saying that one of my favorite parts was the amazing sketches that served as the attendees' place cards. Bidkart Malespin's rendering of all of us were marvelous and mine will receive prime real estate in a frame on my desk ;-)

Katherine & Ashley

Jenny & Cheralee

Waverly

Lacey

Waverly & Lauren

Carlis & Katya wearing a La Petite Marmoset Vintage skirt & blazer/skirt (respectively)

Spicy Candy DC: Onward & Upward (or downward, or sometimes touching hair, or a hat, or sunglasses...wink wink)

In The Powder Room...

2012-01-14T23:30:00.000-05:00

...of the Irish Whiskey Public House.

Busboys & Poets

2012-01-11T17:54:00.002-05:00

Twas a lovely way to begin a Sunday: brunch with a beautimous blogging bunch. Afterward, everyone headed to the "Drop By and DIY" event at Studio 85, but I headed home to be with Mom & Dad for their 35th wedding anniversary. Very grateful to those two crazy kids for giving me the best family :)

Bloggerinas brunching at Busboys & Poets:

Ashley, Cheralee, Emily, Kate, Katherine, Victoria, & Waverly

BB&P: 2021 14th St NW/Washington, DC 20009

Plate of the Day

2012-01-10T09:49:00.000-05:00

901

2012-01-09T11:30:00.000-05:00

Some delicious, American/Asian fusion, tapas-style munching at 901.

#wearing: Saint James marinière, gemma redux necklace

(901 9th Street, NW/Washington, DC 20001)

Finishing Touches: Laura Mercier & Dior

2012-01-08T19:36:00.000-05:00

For Christmas the big sis gave me a gift card for Sephora, which I promptly used to snag two products I've been eager to get my hands on for a while.

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder - This finely milled powder knocks out any shine (especially in the dreaded T-zone), without dulling the skin.

Diorskin Poudre Shimmer Powder in Rose Diamond - Tanya Burr is a fan of the 'Amber Diamond' shade of this highlighting powder. I opted for the rosier option as I've got a cream highlighter by Urban Decay that does the same gold-hued job as 'Amber Diamond.' 'Rose Diamond's' effect is very subtle; you'd really have to whack it on before you went overboard. Some of the shades used separately would be lovely on the eyelids too!

Holidaze - Part Deux

2012-01-07T18:15:00.000-05:00

New Year's Eve

Georgetown Watercolor

2012-01-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

I was skedaddling home from a quick trip to the fabric store in Georgetown Park (before it closes for good) when I passed by the Georgetown Waterfront, sparkling like a Cullen in the unseasonably warm January sunlight. #snapsnap.

Alice In Wonderland: Botanic Garden Holiday Display

2012-01-05T10:07:00.000-05:00

Below is Cheralee's and my New Years Day excursion to the Botanic Garden (located at the foot of the Capitol), which for the holiday season had on display some lovely poinsettias as well as various Washington landmarks in miniature, made out of plant materials (naturally). The holiday display is an annual tradition to which, until that day, I'd never been. And I'm only a 15 minute walk away. Oh the shame! Thank goodness for a blonde South African who's new enough to D.C. to be up for such field trips.

Looking at Cheralee in these photos (and pondering a post title) conjured the image of one of my favorite Disney characters. Perhaps it arises from her D.C. newbie status and her desire to explore the city she'll be calling home for a while. In any case, I trust she'll like what she finds :-)

Daisy:What kind of a garden do you come from?
Alice: Oh, I don't come from any garden.
Daisy:Do you suppose she's a wildflower?

:-)

Knit-y Gritty: Beginner's Knitting Class At Hill Center

2012-01-04T23:04:00.000-05:00

via counterfeit crochet project

As far as New Year's resolutions go, I'm pretty sure that trying new hobbies is one that regularly makes the top 5. Luckily there's a Parsons graduate and former Tommy Hilfiger designer offering her knitting know-how in a series of classes on Capitol Hill. Here's the knit-y gritty:

When: Tuesdays | January 10th-February 14th | 6:30-8:30 p.m. (6 classes in all)
Where: Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital | 921 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20003
By: Shelly Steitz (Instructor)
Cost: $25.00 drop in (at the door) | $125.00 for series (for registration)

Check out more deets here! --> hillcenterdc.org/programs

Happy knitting!

Holidaze - Part One

2012-01-03T00:48:00.000-05:00

Christmas Day

New Year's Eve Eve: Girls' Night Out

2012-01-01T10:00:00.000-05:00

Can't think of a better way to Cap off the year than with some FABB-ulous bloggerinas ;-)

#wearing: velvet coat, la petite marmoset top, bcbg skirt, alexander mcqueen skull bangle, ear candie earrings, rebecca minkoff bag

Above: Cheralee, Kate, Carlis, Katya, Katherine, Ashley, Caroline

Happy New Year, dahlings!

NYE Remix: Orly "Star Spangled" & Butter London "Union Jack Black"

2011-12-31T12:00:00.000-05:00

With Orly's "Star Spangled" on my nails for weeks, boredom set in so I promptly layered a coat of it over Butter London's "Union Jack Black" to give the Christmas sparkle some New Years Eve flash!

Union Jack Sparrow

2011-12-31T11:00:00.001-05:00

Gingerbread Friends

2011-12-31T11:00:00.000-05:00

Ingredients for a great time: Christmas movies (Elf, duh), cheese & crackers, and gingerbread dough. Just add best friends, and bon appétit!

Below, Simply Recipes' gingerbread dough recipe.

Ingredients:

6 cups all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
4 teaspoons ground ginger
4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves or allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 sticks (12 Tbsp) butter, softened
1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar

2 large eggs
1 cup dark molasses
1 Tbsp water

Directions

1 Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl, set aside.
2 Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed the butter and brown sugar until fluffy and well blended. Beat in the eggs, molasses and water until well combined.
3 Beat half of the flour mixture into the molasses mixture until well blended and smooth. Stir in the remaining flour. Knead (or use your mixer's dough hook) until well blended. If dough is too soft, add a little more flour.
4 Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least two hours, preferably overnight. You can make it up to 3 days ahead of time. Let sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before rolling out.

The LPM 3 Way Style Challenge

2011-12-30T18:00:00.000-05:00

Via Katherine Martinez

This month, I participated in La Petite Marmoset's 3 Way Style Challenge. I, along with Ashley (La Belle Vie Vintage) and Abbey (District Dress Up), were tasked with styling three pieces from Katherine's vintage clothing line. I love how differently we all transformed the pieces into looks that reflected our personal style. There are some great outtakes on the Facebook page! And here's last month's LPM style challenge. Can't wait to see what looks the next crop of gals whip up :)

Coffee Break

2011-12-30T13:00:00.000-05:00

Georgetown Blues

2011-12-29T17:32:00.000-05:00

via Michael Tornato

I was at the Urban Outfitters in Georgetown yesterday with the lovely Cheralee when a very nice guy asked if he could photograph my duds for his blog. Pleasure to meet you Michael! Hope you (and your camera) enjoyed visiting DC. We're a pretty fashion friendly bunch :-)

#wearing: rag & bone 'grosvenor' moto jacket, burberry scarf, american apparel tee, william rast jeggings, lv bag, jc 'everest' boots

Rainbow Wonder

2011-12-28T23:00:00.000-05:00

Who else saw this gorgeous rainbow yesterday?! It has to be the best one I've ever seen in real life. I ran outside to snap some photos of it (and the lovely sunset) before it disappeared.

Sparq Soapstone Rocks

2011-12-28T11:30:00.000-05:00

"Keep cool, my babies." - Conan "Coco" O'Brien

So Dad received these Sparq Soapstone Rocks in his stocking this Christmas. Intrigued, I promptly stole them to take 'em for a test drive. Traditionally meant for keeping whiskey cold, the stone cubes can also cool wine/champagne (after a few hours in the freezer) or heat up coffee (after a zap in the microwave). They're reusable, eco-friendly, and safe on glassware. This glass-o-bubbly stayed chilled for a good hour or so!

Plate of the Day

2011-12-27T15:18:00.001-05:00

Christmas Cozy: OnePiece Onesies

2011-12-26T22:00:00.000-05:00

By far, one of my favorite Christmas goodies: a OnePiece! As seen on Made In Chelsea and in my dreams. Norway, consider these a national treasure.

Beauty Buys: Benefit & YSL

2011-12-24T20:00:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share some new beauty infatuations! I first got to try Benefit's The POREfessional Primer when it came in the December Birch Box and I was instantly fascinated. Unlike other primers I've used, it disappears as soon as it's applied, leaving a super smooth base for foundation. Can't get enough!

And the YSL Volupté Sheer Candy lipstick, how yummy is the packaging?! This one's "Luscious Cherry" and like the name suggests, the effect is a sheer veil of color, almost like a tinted lip balm. Alex from HRH Collection (I kind of love her) wore a darker shade of it in a video this past month and I had to try it. No regrets!

Homemade Chicken Liver Pate

2011-12-24T03:00:00.002-05:00

For years I'd heard Mom could make her own chicken-liver pate but I'd never witnessed it until yesterday. So I grabbed my phone and took some snaps in progress. Below is the recipe she used from Martha Stewart Everyday Food. Warning: Mom doubled the recipe; hence why the photos show alotta wine and alotta buttah.

Ingredients

15 tablespoons (1 7/8 sticks) unsalted butter
3/4 pound chicken livers, rinsed and drained
1/2 pound white mushrooms, sliced
1/3 cup chopped scallions, white and pale-green parts only (about 3 scallions)
1 tablespoon minced garlic, (2 to 3 cloves)
1 teaspoon paprika
Coarse salt
1/3 cup white wine
1 teaspoon fresh thyme

Directions

Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add livers, mushrooms, scallions, garlic, and paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until livers are cooked through, about 5 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon salt. Add wine and thyme. Reduce heat to low; cover. Cook until mushrooms are very soft, about 10 minutes. Let mixture cool completely.
Process mixture and remaining 12 tablespoons butter in a food processor until smooth. Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Transfer pate to an airtight container or a ramekin; cover with plastic wrap directly on surface. Refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours or overnight.

Moleskine Red

2011-12-21T18:53:00.001-05:00

The approaching new year reminded me that I would need a new planner and it's been a long time since I've had a planner that began with the month of January instead of August (ah, the joys of academic calendars). Because of this, I figured that the purchase of my first post-grad organizer of time would be a momentous occasion, which meant (ridiculously) copious hours spent contemplating what to choose. It's what I do, I'm a stationary freak. Paper Source makes me giddy.

Moleskine was my decided maker of choice, having been inspired by Alex from HRH Collection. I went with the large, hard cover "Planner + Notes" model, with the week on one side and a lined page on the other.

As for color choice, it was either standard (read boring) black or this fun red. Admittedly I was perhaps swayed on some subconscious level by Mom's planners from my childhood days of yore, which were always red. And something about this color says, "Don't worry, I got this." Right? Eh.

Baby's First Passport

2011-12-21T11:00:00.000-05:00

Helping mom organize the house can bring about some splendid discoveries, such as some of the fam's passports from over the years. As passport photos are categorically some of the most horrific pieces of portraiture in existence, the only one I could bare to look at was my first.

The mega-chub! The uni-brow! Can't you just see the poor soul off-camera, flailing around with squeaky toys in hand, trying to get me to look in the right direction for this photo?

Coco's Corner: Summer Flashback

2011-12-21T00:37:00.000-05:00

photo taker: alivia. dog holder: sneha.

When she's not barking the house down, she's kinda cute.

Stocking Stuffed

2011-12-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

I got these charming measuring spoons and some other splendid stocking stuffers from The Spoon Sisters. They were featured on the The Lamb List. I always see some of the coolest stuff on there!

Sunday Style: Winter Trimmings

2011-12-18T20:00:00.000-05:00

Barbour studded jacket
Dolce Vita vintage black boots
Goyard Doctors bag
Topshop purple skull ring
Linea cable beret

Yuletide Yearnings: Mulberry "Evelina" Satchel

2011-12-18T00:10:00.000-05:00

via mulberry.com

License Plate of the Day

2011-12-17T11:00:00.000-05:00

Multipurpose Christmas Crackers

2011-12-16T16:35:00.000-05:00

It has become a tradition in my household to make these little golden nuggets of goodness during the holidays. As they're not quite bruschetta nor are they garlic bread, we never know what to call them. I've dubbed them multipurpose Christmas crackers due to their endless topper possibilities - cheese, paté, tapenade, you name it. These thin slices of baguette get lightly brushed with melted butter on each side, then toasted in the oven at 325 degrees for 20 minutes. Done and yum!

Bloggers Night Out in The District

2011-12-15T23:50:00.000-05:00

Last night, Bloggers Night Out came to D.C. for its first outing since the event's debut during New York Fashion Week last September. The area's bloggers descended upon Chevy Chase for the evening, which was hosted by Bloomingdale's (I could live in there like Eloise in the Plaza hotel). All in all, I'd say we gave BNO a very warm welcome. I expect to see it return very soon!

#wearing: j.crew button-down, ysl skirt, miu miu pumps, lv bag

Pixiwoo Holiday Party Makeup Tutorial

2011-12-11T23:30:00.000-05:00

Here's Samantha, one half of sister makeup duo Pixiwoo, doing a look I used for the LPM Holiday Lookbook Party.

Main channel: Pixiwoo
Second chanel: PixiwooMadness

La Petite Marmoset Lookbook Party

2011-12-11T21:07:00.001-05:00

Continuing the "Girls' Night Out" theme of the splendid new holiday lookbook, tons of talented bloggerinas gathered at Violet Boutique in Adams Morgan to fete La Petite Marmoset's latest project. The lookbook is another creative collaboration between LPM and Spicy Candy DC, with the photography and styling aid of The President Wears Prada and A Lacey Perspective. Everyone involved made for a killer team; the models look resplendent in their LPM vintage threads and every photograph is a treat to look at. Congrats once again!

I've popped some snaps of the after party at Little Miss Whiskey's (one of the lookbook backdrops) near the end ;-)

Lacey

Lauren

Waverly & Abbey

Vivy

Alison

Jennifer

Victoria (L)

Carlis (R)

Genevia (L)

Katherine (L)

Tameka (L)

Katya (R)

*P.S. my dress was from the Rodarte collection for Target.

Glenda Bailey Book Signing

2011-12-11T17:57:00.001-05:00

This past Wednesday evening I was ecstatic to meet the gracious Glenda Bailey at her book signing in Georgetown. Held at Coach, the event celebrated the new book Harper's Bazaar: Greatest Hits, a stunning visual chronicle of Bailey's 10 years as editor-in-chief of the magazine. My intent was to have a copy signed for Mumsy as her Christmas present, but seeing as Harper's Bazaar is, without question, my favorite mag I couldn't pass up getting one for myself as well. Now, all that's left to do is to try and keep my mouth shut around Mom until Christmas!

Zinzi Christmas Party

2011-12-09T11:00:00.000-05:00

Some photos from the Zinzi Christmas party, affectionately called the bartender's ball.

Annually held at the Grand Hyatt, the ball is co-sponsored by tons-o-local businesses. It's the favorite holiday party of DC's bar and restaurant industry and it raises thousands for local charities.

Xmas Sparkle: Orly "Star Spangled"

2011-12-08T16:54:00.001-05:00

"There's no place like home, there's no place like home." :D

Robin Thicke @ 9:30 Club

2011-12-06T19:36:00.001-05:00

Caramel Boutique CapFABB Meet-up

2011-12-06T00:25:00.001-05:00

Just a few shots from the December CapFABB meet-up on U Street. I'm a newbie but already I so look forward to these lil fêtes. Caramel boutique was our wonderful host for the evening, with DC Goodwill providing some great vintage goodies for us to peruse.

Vivy & Genevia

Liz & Lacey

Sai's sicknasty Louboutins

Krystin

Waverly & Katherine

I was stuck for what to wear, so all-black it was! The fact that I've had that skirt since the age of nine is completely imperceptible, right? (Merp). Twas great to see some lovelies like Abbey and Alison, as well as meet ladies Krystin, Katie, Gwynne, and Rosa! But of course I worked up a shopping appetite (and by "shopping" I mean stuffing my face with the boutique's chocolate and gabbing away). Enter Local 16 across the street for some snacks with fellow bloggerinas (and by "snacks" I mean prosecco, a burger and fries :D).

Festive: OPI "Glitzerland"

2011-12-03T02:54:00.001-05:00

Just a little somethin' to get into the holiday spirit :)

Hail Britannia

2011-11-29T21:16:00.001-05:00

A birthday prezzie from a bestie to continue the theme of my phone cover. And to further my anglophilia/Made In Chelsea obsession. Thank you dahling!

Peacock

2011-11-29T20:50:00.001-05:00

Amusement with les filles at Peacock Cafe, preceding SFS Thanksgiving alumni party @ Smith Point. Typical shenanigans ensued.

Gobble, Gobble

2011-11-29T19:37:00.001-05:00

Ahhh, Puiforcat silverware, duvet cover-sized napkins, and grotesque overeating; its officially the holidays!!!

Archie Grand for J.Crew

2011-11-23T23:39:00.001-05:00

available in-store or at jcrew.com

Dreaming of: Charlotte Olympia Platform Pumps

2011-11-22T22:14:00.001-05:00

Siiiiiiiiigh.

charlotteolympia.com

net-a-porter.com

Muzak: Cher Lloyd, Coldplay, & Rihanna

2011-11-21T17:17:00.001-05:00

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;C&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;Can't get these songs outta my ears!!!

License Plate of the Day

2011-11-21T17:16:00.001-05:00

Purp & the Pup: Essie "Sexy Divide"

2011-11-20T02:20:00.001-05:00

Blogger Love

2011-11-16T19:18:00.001-05:00

Linda/Mel/Lumay

Waverly/UjjiB

Post-capfabb drinks with Waverly, Cheralee, Katherine, & Abbey!

So nice to hang out with all the lovely laydees at the CapFABB meet-up held at Equinox in Bethesda. I was a bad little blogger and barely took any photos. I even had to steal the one of my outfit (thanks to Kia at Glamourina). Perhaps I was too busy schvitzing in that warm room we were in. (TMI?) And I could kick myself for not seeing one of the massage therapists on hand. I heard they were stellar. Here are some "Instagrammed" snaps - inspired by Cheralee's photos of the event and Katherine's infatuation with the app, lol. Merci girlies!

Prah da la la la

2011-11-16T12:00:00.000-05:00

Shoesies worn last Friday night. Cue Katy Perry...

District of Pi

2011-11-15T22:04:00.001-05:00

Give me a night with good friends and good food and I'm as happy as a clam. To continue my recent streak of firsts, I tried District of Pi this past weekend and ordered a deep-dish, make-your-own pizza. Delish doesn't begin to describe!! This is my kind of math ;-)

LongView Gallery

2011-11-15T20:29:00.001-05:00

Last week I went to LongView Gallery for the first time to meet a friend at an opening reception. The space is phenom; it has character but it doesn't detract from the art. I'll be sure to go back!

Pictured: pieces by Michelle Peterson-Albandoz

Four-Eyed Beauty: Makeup for Wearers of Glasses

2011-11-13T16:55:00.001-05:00

I wear my glasses every day (I need these bad boys to see even three feet in front of me, y'all); therefore, I was delighted by this little diddy from The Beauty Department about makeup application for bespectacled individuals. Simple and easy.

Sunday Style

2011-11-13T16:26:00.001-05:00

Behold: what I wore last night.

Ann Taylor leopard top
All Saints leather jacket (similar)
Tory Burch "Jack" boots
Rebecca Minkoff MAC
American Apparel circle scarf

I Want: Rebecca Minkoff Large Racy Clutch

2011-11-10T14:39:00.002-05:00

via cheyenne meets chanel

I've never been a huge fan of long shoulder straps but something changed once I did my study abroad in Paris. On Parisiennes they were instantly appealing. Admittedly, I find Parisian girls' style appealing in general but anywho... Not to mention longer straps were practical: a public transport-heavy life in the city made cross-body option supah handy. Now I'm hooked.

Delightful: Del Toro Slippers

2011-11-09T23:15:00.001-05:00

via Highsnobette

How faboosh are these Del Toro ladies slippers? I want them all!

Afternoon Stroll

2011-11-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

Revamped: The New Ann Taylor Concept Store

2011-11-08T23:35:00.002-05:00

Last night, I capped off my birthday with a couple of my friends at the new Ann Taylor concept store in downtown D.C. This store continues the company's recent and very well-done image overhaul. CapFABB members got a lovely little preview of the new space decked out with floor-to-ceiling mirrors, lush chandeliers, and super-sized portraits of the gorgeous Liya Kebede - very wham, glam, thank you Ma'am.

Ann Taylor, 600 13th Street, N.W.

We gladly partook in cupcakes, some bubbly, and a special 20% discount, which I used on a fun leopard blouse. And the adorable employees modeled some great Ann Taylor looks for our gaggle of cameras. On November 10th, the store will be celebrating its opening from 12 PM - 4 PM with Marie Claire as the host!

Made In Chelsea: Series 2

2011-11-06T17:48:00.003-05:00

via E4, myportiswaspsays.com

I cannot express the joy I've had at the hands of the return of Made in Chelsea. I was previously captivated by the high-class cast members of this Hills-esque reality show at the beginning of the summer and it's been great to have it back. It reminds me of gabbing about it with my British friend that I lived with this summer, and whom I miss dearly. How can a show be so delightfully good and bad at the same time? Series two brings some new cast members with hefty trust funds, flash sports cars, country homes, and gorgeous clothes to gawk at. Take me to Chelsea please!!!!!!!

This season has also heavily featured this great M83 song, "Midnight City."

Skull King

2011-11-05T11:00:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite Topshop finds on a recent NYC trip. Love this lil' guy ;-)

iGlamour

2011-11-04T20:16:00.000-04:00

(L-R) My copy, Mom's copy.

D.C. + Refinery29: A Match Made{well} in Heaven

2011-11-04T16:03:00.000-04:00

Refinery29 officially feted its D.C. arrival with a launch party in Georgetown at Madewell, J.Crew's younger, more casual sister. A fab store filled with gorgeous clothes and even more gorgeous and chic CapFABB bloggers! I also took the opportunity to turn the occasion into a fun night out with old girlfriends from high school.

Post-Madewell we sought sustenance at Peacock Cafe. It was so good to catch up!

All Of The Lights: Jay-Z & Kanye West "Watch the Throne" Tour

2011-11-02T22:55:00.000-04:00

In between bouncing around like a fool I managed to snap photos of Jay-Z and Kanye's show. Their bromance is one for the history books. And I'd like to formally note my excitement at discovering that bromance has its own Wikipedia page.

Trick or Treat: Butter London "Union Jack Black"

2011-10-31T19:06:00.002-04:00

Nothing like a chic skull and some black and orange to get you in a Halloweeny mood :-D

Wrist-ky Business

2011-10-28T23:36:00.001-04:00

How cheesy is that post title?! Ugh, I just couldn't help myself...

U've Been Seenst: Ashley Madekwe

2011-10-28T23:12:00.000-04:00

Another Wednesday night meant another episode of ABC's Revenge which meant yet another opportunity to ogle stupidly gorgeous Ashley Madekwe. The Hair! The Eyes! The Never-Ending Legs! The ACCENT!

And she blogs. I'm smitten with all of her OOTD's. And her Chanel 2.55 in PURPLE (!!!) is one of my dream bags. This is defo one fit Brit.

School Spirit

2011-10-28T00:39:00.001-04:00

Homecoming. A day of old friends, loved (and feared) former teachers, and the inevitable awkward moment, or twelve.

;-)

Shortcuts

2011-10-27T15:08:00.002-04:00

There's a particular side street I park on when in Georgetown and I always cut through this lovely courtyard to get to Wisconsin Avenue. I love the church's Gothic windows and blue doors. So glad I finally remembered to snap some pics!

Koziness: Eugenia Kim "Lula" Turban Headband

2011-10-25T19:29:00.001-04:00

via shopbop.com

This is just one of several Eugenia Kim toppers in my "hearts" on shopbop. It's so fluffy, I'm gonna die!!! [Despicable Me, anyone?]

All Hallow's Eve in Style

2011-10-24T16:21:00.002-04:00

via Another / highsnobette

I Want: Zara Sweaters & Tees

2011-10-23T20:47:00.002-04:00

zara.com

Sunday Style: Think Pink

2011-10-23T20:05:00.000-04:00

Wildfox Couture "Je T'aime Sweatshirt
Cheap Monday grey skinny jeans
Sam Edelman "Lorissa" Pump
Alexander McQueen Whipstitch Clutch
Toy Watch Ceramic Pink Watch
Essie Nail Polish in "Lady Like"

Nail'd: Butter London "Chimney Sweep"

2011-10-23T00:32:00.002-04:00

I love the shape of the Butter London bottle; I typically put polish bottles between my fingers while I paint away, and this oblong situation works a treat.

The Details

2011-10-22T02:47:00.001-04:00

My dad before a Black-tie dinner this week.

Yum: Vince Hooded Drape Coat

2011-10-21T23:12:00.000-04:00

via bloomingdales.com

Today, I made the egregious error of popping into Barneys Co-op in Georgetown - aka LUST CENTRAL - and I spotted this lush Vince camel coat. Boy, would I love to cozy up in this little number.

License Plate of the Day

2011-10-19T21:32:00.000-04:00

School of YSL

2011-10-19T21:21:00.001-04:00

Big sis and I went to a great lecture on the life and fashion of Yves Saint Laurent at the Alliance Française last weekend. Now I must see about us taking some French classes there. And how gorgeous is the AF house? Can I move in next week please?!?

Holy Halloween

2011-10-19T18:56:00.001-04:00

So this scared the bejezus out of me the other night; I happened to glance up at a suspicious sound and voila, ghoul central. But glad to see the neighbors getting into the Halloween spirit.

OPI Fun: Shangri-La La Lilac

2011-10-18T23:30:00.000-04:00

A definite oldie but goodie ;-)

Cartier Dreams: Karmaloop Leopard Wrap Ring

2011-10-18T02:07:00.003-04:00

Karmaloop's Leopard wrap ring isn't a bad dupe for the 18-carat gold "Panthère." Just as easy on the eyes and muuuuuuch easier on the wallet.

Left: Doug Rosa; Right: Karmaloop

Sunday Style: Brunch Bunch

2011-10-16T18:25:00.002-04:00

T by Alexander Wang legging
Alexander Wang wrap top
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Perle Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick
Tory Burch Boots
Toy Watch

On Repeat: James Morrison feat. Jessie J- "Up"

2011-10-14T16:53:00.000-04:00

Favorite Beauty/Grooming Youtubers

2011-10-12T19:51:00.002-04:00

I'm always instantly happier when a new vid from any of these guys pops up in my subscription box!
P.S. I know, they're all from the UK. Haven't found American ones that I like yet...
P.P.S Obviously j1mmyb0bba's channel is meant for guys, but he's got that charming Brit thing going.

Lita Love: Jeffrey Campbell 'Everest' Boot

2011-10-12T18:36:00.001-04:00

The 'Everest': the 'Lita's' sportier, hiking boot-esqe cousin. Sometimes I hesitate over whether or not something will fit in with the rest of my clothing, even if I really like the item. But I've [painfully] realized enough times that if you don't think you have the right outfit(s) with which to wear the item in question, you're never going to wear it, ever. To ward off this problem, I've taken to perusing Lookbook.nu and/or Google image stalking potential purchases to see how others have incorporated 'x' item into their wardrobe. I found Kenza's photo (below) through said image stalking and was like DUH, I'm getting these boots. Obviously I don't think I look like a Swedish model, but I did feel that the basic premise of the outfit was one to be easily duplicated with what I already own ;-)

I Want: Mulberry 'Taylor' Satchel

2011-10-06T02:18:00.002-04:00

via mulberry.com

I've been eying this 'Taylor' satchel for a while now and was utterly delighted (and jealous) to see Blake Lively carrying it on this week's ep of Gossip Girl. Blake carried the oversized version, which I would usually be all over.

But after watching a "What's in My Bag" tag video by beauty youtuber Tanya (Pixi2woo), who has the regular size, I'm thinking maybe bigger isn't better.

License Plate of the Day

2011-10-05T23:11:00.000-04:00

If only you knew how long I actually spent thinking about this plate...Get one WHAT?!?!!

Sunday Style: Mean Green

2011-10-02T17:50:00.000-04:00

Black tee
$30 - topshop.com

Uniqlo Military Jacket
£40 - uniqlo.com

Black Heavy Weight Leggings
$36 - topshop.com

Jeffrey Campbell Taupe Suede 'Lita' Booties
$160 - nordstrom.com

Rebecca Minkoff 'Mini M.A.C.' Clutch in Raspberry
$195 - nordstrom.com

Smith's Rosebud Lip Balm
$7 - americanapparel.net

Illamasqua 'Theatre of the Nameless' Nail Varnish Collection

2011-10-02T16:18:00.002-04:00

via illamasqua's blog

Per Illamasqua:
Descend into the riotous scene of erotic adventure that is THE THEATRE OF THE NAMELESS, nocturnal den of the dissident leaders of underworld subcultures. Exotic dancers rub shoulders with expressionist actors and performers; nudists and Boot Girls openly compete for the Conférencier’s eye; and all participate in the Club’s endless, pleasure-seeking rituals, immersing themselves in a heady world of sensual delight …

Well, that got my attention. Illamasqua has just released four new nail polishes as a part of its Fall 2011 collection, Theatre of the Nameless. From L-R, the colors are Taint, Kink, Vice, and Faux Pas. I picked up Vice at Sephora. Each shade emulates the advertising practices of Boot Girls (Berlin prostitutes of the 1920s). A girl's boot color would correspond to her particular "specialty." Yowzers. The finish is meant to look like rubber, and even the bottle cap is rubberized to continue the S&M theme.

puppyeyed.blogspot.com

The finish actually reminds me of Chanel's "matte" polish Black Velvet, which to me always looked like either leather or licorice, but never a true matte. ----->

Despite this identity crisis, Chanel's Black Velvet pulls off the rubbery/waxy look with much more panache than Illamasqua's Vice. So much so that I prefer Vice with a top coat of Essie's Good to Go. Strangie.com swatched the

collection both with and without a topcoat, and I have to say I'm going to stick with the former from now on!

All Hail ADR

2011-09-27T02:07:00.002-04:00

Anna Della Russo, via stockholmstreetstyle

May I one day find the hutzpah to try a day-sequin moment.