The last three pics on this post are of Nick, the Australian – he helped in the starting of the cafe at Rugby in G-town…
Dominic February 12, 2007
10:07 am
People look their best when they feel natural. This guy looks how he must feel.
Carrie February 13, 2007
12:25 am
Unless you have a stunted torso, Ann Taylor is a fact of life, much like Blair, Tootie and the inevitable return of tight ankle jeans every 10 years (at least the stonewash bowties/zippers didn’t come back with them this time). Much like female Brooks Brothers, Ann Taylor is a decent place for baby shower basics. Like a predictable batch of roses for valentines, AT always flaunts Red for holidays, naval theme for fall, yellow for spring and flower patterns/bows for every day of the week…thrilling and exotic, no, but dependable, indeed. Kind of like dating a Republican… (i jest.)
Rachel – The blog is outstanding. Your style and tone are really fantastic. Love the study thus far.
holiday February 13, 2007
10:40 am
When I first moved to DC, I bought a beautiful pink lady coat from Banana Republic. I thought it would be such a great standout piece among all of the black suits on Capitol Hill. So you can imagine my surprise when I saw like twelve other girls on the metro wearing the same exact coat. I’m not faulting Ann Taylor, but the mass consumption of it and it’s trendier counterpart, Ann Taylor Loft, produces an army of women dressed in the same pink coat. All trendy and “unique” but in the exact same way.
I can definitely appreciate the fashion sense of a woman who can pick a ubiquitous item and make it her own, but it seems that the women shopping at Ann Taylor Loft are trying to mix with the masses.
Savvy February 13, 2007
12:09 pm
Congrats on a new blog and THANKS! DC needs a friendly fashion blog like yours. I have to agree with Carrie, Ann Taylor is a DC staple for the basics – as boring as it may sound. But some women are able to pull it off so well with the help of fun accessories – you can’t help but be surprised when they tell you it’s an AT piece. Sometimes the basics are needed to look put together… Kitty, pot is on the phone – she wants her AT pieces you are wearing back!
Cat February 13, 2007
4:29 pm
Cydwoq. Like “sidewalk.” That’s the brand of shoe.
rachel February 13, 2007
7:58 pm
YES!!
( :
Tom H February 14, 2007
11:13 am
Yes I love the outfit actually all of her outfits………Your doing a great job great website………..
lisa February 14, 2007
2:45 pm
Rachel, you have angered the Chico’s mannequins.
And of course, Ann Taylor may not be unique on its own, but plenty of women combine it with accessories and other items to create interesting looks. Anyone can put on Marni and feel fashionable, but it takes some creativity to play up your Ann Taylor.
And you’re off to a great start with the blog. It’s a blast to read.
Love how you are doing the Sartorialist thing here in DC. Keep it up, you are a welcome addition to the DC blogosphere!
Barbara Neel February 15, 2007
8:32 am
I love this man!
He brightens my day. I want to give him a hug.
Tom H February 15, 2007
10:36 am
Love the dark coat….actually love the whole look….she is a cutie
Tom H February 15, 2007
12:14 pm
Oh Rachel boo I look forward to Tunde’s outfits
but I understand things happen…..Have fun at the luncheon and can’t wait to see what you have for us tomorrow…………your doing a great job……….
Ann February 16, 2007
12:11 am
I looooove these shoes. I feel like they’d be great for work, going out, going shopping. I do love an all around great shoe!
Hey, I love your blog.
Great idea trying to inject some fashion into the DC world.
And, Ilove this outfit (accessories are SPOT on) but there is no way in hell I could wear jeans that tight (or jeans AT ALL) to the office, let alone let a superior see a little sliver of my stomach like that.
That would get me sent home in a heartbeat.
Tom H February 16, 2007
12:44 pm
Megyn Kelly is absoultly beautiful whatever she is wearing. I have watched her for the longest time on Fox and she is gorgeous. She looks wonderful in this outfit. I wish her well in New York and hope to watch her in the future. Again Rachel great job…….
Tom H February 16, 2007
12:50 pm
Wow she looks great as usual……love the look…..she will turn a lot of heads this weekend for sure………..
Sarah Hortillosa February 17, 2007
4:50 pm
Love the shoes!!!
I think that's enough February 18, 2007
6:13 pm
I think we’ve had enough of Tunde Turcsik! Is there anybody else you’ve shot? Love the blog but this is getting a bit much.
lisa February 19, 2007
6:22 am
Correct me if I’m wrong, but wasn’t this a segment where you follow someone around for a week and then move on?
Looks like 7 days was perfect – people want to see more on the 7th day!
Keep it up Rachel!
Tom H February 19, 2007
9:41 am
Rachel you can follow her around forever….
she has great taste and is gorgeous….keep up the great work………..
Tom H February 19, 2007
9:44 am
Love the shoes yes but love the casual look…….also love the pose…………
Rachel, you and Brenna were adorable in those dresses with big white collars. And you know it! Love,Mom
Dominic February 20, 2007
10:16 am
pimp
savvy February 20, 2007
11:11 am
I love this outfit! (Love all of her outfits, actually) she has great style. Your idea of following someone for a week is great. Is this going to be a standard feature? I hope so!
savvy February 20, 2007
11:13 am
is this a ladies’ coat?
Tom H February 20, 2007
2:28 pm
I like both coats but number 2 a little better
because I love the scarf she has with it. A great combo…..she’s also a cutie……….
Anonymous February 20, 2007
3:43 pm
I hang out at Wonderland a lot and yes, the chick bartenders are a**holes.
Anonymous February 20, 2007
3:46 pm
That girl needs wood hangers. Someone tell her please that plastic hangers and the few wire ones I see there are totally not acceptable. And clothes in dry cleaning bags? Ugh.
Anonymous February 20, 2007
3:53 pm
Well, I think this post just proved that D.C. not only lacks in fashion creativity but has very very ugly people too. Very ugly.
Brenna February 20, 2007
4:45 pm
don’t forget the smocked dresses (which were FAB–can you believe she spent that much time making those?!?) and the matching hawaiian outfits from gap–you had turquoise and i had hot pink. i believe bubble skirts were involved.
Charlene February 20, 2007
5:54 pm
Wooden hangers only? LOL. Oh please, get a life!
raymond February 21, 2007
12:58 am
it’s a man’s jacket
the 18k gold hand made dragon charm is one of a kind
i’m not pimping (TODAY!!)
JUST CELEBRATING MY BIRTHDAY
RAYMOND
Emily February 21, 2007
10:34 am
This was a fabulous set of posts. She is very stylish! I’d love to see some more week-long posts of both men and women, especially what some of the respectable fashionistas on the Hill are up to!
Ann February 21, 2007
12:12 pm
Glad to hear you got your card back but sorry to hear it was so lame when you went back! I was soooo psyched for the music they were playing on Saturday night! Any place that plays ‘I Can’t Wait’ and ‘Cold-hearted Snake’ in the same night is pretty much my idea of heaven! Even if that makes me a poser
Ann February 21, 2007
12:19 pm
Rach, your mom is right. Y’all were at the apex of playground chic back then! Plus…it’s leggings now…betcha it will be stirrup pants before 2007 is over!
Tom H February 22, 2007
10:19 am
Rach that bag says it all….no other comment is needed…..it’s great………
Emilia February 22, 2007
1:20 pm
Moweena in her yellow coat! Shes my daily fashion inspiration.
Tom H February 23, 2007
10:15 am
Love the coat…actually love the whole look scarf,glasses……….she has it together………
J. Ingram February 23, 2007
11:45 am
A perfect “CAT DADDY”. Purely classic. I know that your birthday was a blast.
J. Ingram
Reader February 23, 2007
12:05 pm
Can someone send out a memo? The oversized movie-star sunglasses are done. Toss them into the same box with your uggs and throw the whole thing out. Ugly ugly ugly.
holiday February 23, 2007
1:20 pm
I think it’s a great look. The jacket is fantastic. I need to get a good trench for Spring. I’ve got a couple, but not khaki.
I think it was just the cut of the gown…or perhaps she’s pregnant…but I did notice that her boobs looked huge in that dress.
Carly February 26, 2007
1:18 pm
I actually kind of liked Meryl Streep’s – it was the accesorizing where it all went haywire. Jessica Biel’s wasn’t event-appropriate, but it was an all right dress. Kirsten’s was too busy, but it wasn’t awful…whereas Anne Hathaway, who usually has admirable style…ugh. That bow! The BOW!
Tom H February 26, 2007
1:34 pm
Jessica Biel looked gorgeous in her dress………I don’t think anything is out of style at the Oscars even tho some look hideous………..
Sarah February 27, 2007
10:51 am
I’m sorry I know people love the Penelope Cruz dress but I hated it!!! The skirt looks like a blanket my roommate bought from Wal-Mart! Reese is hands down the best dressed.
Tom H February 28, 2007
9:42 am
wow Katherine Kennedy is stunning……what an outfit. Mom and daughter definately hot….great outfits………
Allie Cowan February 28, 2007
3:17 pm
rach! i have been looking at your blog of course and noticed this picture. i almost died because i know him! anyway, i love the blog, keep up the good work and i’ll keep reading:) hope all is well
southerner February 28, 2007
8:59 pm
Last photo is actually Loving’s biz partner Ayo (Ayodamola Okunseinde), I think.
rachel March 1, 2007
12:35 am
Southerner, you are totally right, and I just fixed it. In fact, I made the mistake of asking if he was Adrian (the card has both of their names). And he said he was Ayo, “the good-looking one!”
–Rachel
Tom H March 1, 2007
9:32 am
Love the little shoe boots in the second pic… very sexy….
I can’t imagine those shoes being comfortable in the last pic but they are interesting tho….
Anon March 1, 2007
11:52 am
That looks like Ali Wentworth – George Stephanopolous’s wife, third picture down in the blue necklace.
rachel March 1, 2007
12:03 pm
Anon–yes, that is Ali Wentworth! She was checking out a gorgeous dress at the Muleh booth. However, she spent most of her time helping her sister Sissy Yates sell her line of jewelry.
Tom H March 1, 2007
12:05 pm
Great pics Rachel you did a great job…….the place looked packed………some great outfits and good looking people as well……keep it up………..
Jason March 1, 2007
1:07 pm
Too bad it was less a sample sale and more a Winter clearing house.
R. Gorlin March 1, 2007
1:26 pm
Interesting . . . my “swag” bag contained only a “sample sale” t-shirt, two SOME brochures, and a plastic pen! And I brought a great gift too . . .
boo on the commenters at DCist. Next someone will have to start a blog trying to prove to the world that the population of DC consists of more than just negative close-minded judgmental types in need of a snark outlet.
Emily March 1, 2007
6:02 pm
Hey! I LOVE your blog!!! I look fashion section of daily candy a lot, but it doesn’t give nearly as much information, or details as you do! It’s so cool to know that DC is actually going somewhere with fashion. I look forward to future entries!!
colleen March 1, 2007
7:35 pm
please tell me the phillip lim dresses taht i’ve been coveting at muleh were still exorbitantly expensive. please.
rachel March 1, 2007
7:52 pm
Colleen–
Yes. They were. Sigh!
steve March 2, 2007
10:38 am
if it weren’t for the bag, i’d say he’s dressed like a 10 year old. why do adults think dressing like retarded kids is okay? he looks like a shitty dj on his way to a dungeons and dragons session.
Those Varvatos shirts are totally fab. I’m a gal and got two of them in olive for myself — at a mere $22.50 per shirt by the time I bought them late in the sale!!
gena March 4, 2007
8:29 pm
looking good pa!
Tom H March 6, 2007
11:00 am
Hi Rachel I missed you yesterday
and was wondering what happened to the site.
Glad your back today………
anonymous March 6, 2007
7:03 pm
Yikes! Your web site is decent, in theory, but you really need to stop ripping off pretty much every single thing the satorialist does.
rachel March 6, 2007
8:18 pm
…really?! I feel like this blog’s content is very Washingtonian. The Sartorialist has New Yorkers (but more recently the Milan & Paris shows) to snap, who look very different from Washingtonians, and he hardly ever takes pictures out at events or bars. As for using the words “On the Street”–you could just as easily say that Sart copies Bill Cunningham, the New York Times photographer/writer who captures trends on NYC streets.
ann March 6, 2007
11:32 pm
HAHAH people who comment like that are so cool. i mean, seriously…i DON’T hear enough bitching, complaining and all out nastiness in my life…and i’m sure a lot of people feel that way. thats why i’m so happy these selfless souls take the time to share their bitching and griping! because yes, we TRUELY care about whatever it is they DON’T like.
*end sarcasm*
love you, love the blog and the post on the dcist.
Tom H March 7, 2007
3:21 pm
Very cute look……love the boots……….
Queen of Swords March 7, 2007
4:13 pm
Um, she’s wearing NUDE stockings. Since when did that come back? And no, those boots are neither “cute” nor “fashiony”. God DC people suck ass.
Tom H March 7, 2007
5:07 pm
wow the gals in DC are good lookin..especially the 2 in pic 2…….
Anonymorous March 7, 2007
7:26 pm
Sorry to hear that the bartender was such a snatch. But I have to tell this story, because it is one of the nicest surprises I ever got. I once left my entire wallet there after getting horribly, embarassingly plastered. Not only did the bartender (Matt?) call me the next morning to tell me that they had it, but when I went back, my wallet was secure in the register with not a single dollar missing.
Your blog is great. I’ll be back often.
no. March 7, 2007
7:47 pm
NO NO NO.
this is so wrong.
zach March 7, 2007
10:55 pm
i’ll keep reading, because i like what you’re doing. just use some different headlines. i read your entry “that hair” and all i could think of was the sartorialist with every other entry.
people were a bit harsh, but I thought it was a nice change from the usual posts. keep it up!
ann March 8, 2007
1:30 pm
prrrr…
Barbarian March 8, 2007
1:45 pm
looove this look, the fit is so flattering and girly, i just think it needs a big splash of color somewhere, the bag or some jewlery.
but i’m pretty sure if i saw this on the street, i would hijack her outfit…and her coffee
Tom H March 8, 2007
2:15 pm
Rach it was very good…….keep up the great work I enjoy what you do………
miss kittin March 9, 2007
12:29 am
so sorry, but i think this look is totally frumpy and unflattering and hideous! poor thing — she’s a cute girl, but she needs to lose the anorak, nude pantyhose, and ankle boots!
miss kittin March 9, 2007
12:30 am
this girl’s look is soooo cute and spring-y! i especially love her handbag and flats.
miss kittin March 9, 2007
12:32 am
adorable! i normally hate jeans tucked into boots, but she pulls this off quite well. i like how the colors in the belt match her boots.
Those black pumps with the lace-ruffle trim were absolutely MADE for me. Please tell me they’re less expensive than my other I-would-risk-my-rent-check-not-clearing obsesssion: the Louboutian moon bow peep-toes (http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/22521).
Love your site, by the way!
rachel March 9, 2007
6:36 pm
Johanna–
I think with the exchange between the euro and the dollar, the Gigi Favela shoes are deeefinitely less expensive. And beyond that, the Gigi Favelas are way cuter, I think. Plus–they’re unique…having something very few other people have or know about it worth every penny.
Since I’ve already been planning which patterned tights and high-waisted pencil skirts I’d wear my pair of Gigi’s, I better head over to Unsung and get them before they’re gone!
Mohawk Guy March 10, 2007
5:41 am
actually it only takes about 15 minutes!
ann March 11, 2007
10:13 pm
i think it’s SUCH a good idea that she makes shoes in so many different heel hieghts. as we’ve discussed so many times before, it’s all about the angle when it comes to finding a comfy shoe. these shoes are porn, rach
Tom H March 12, 2007
8:49 am
love Mia’s bright outfit……..she is very pretty…….
Katie G. March 12, 2007
10:21 am
I really wanted to attend this event and I am so glad to hear it was fun. I will be sure to go to the next one! Thanks for the report, Rachel. The blog is excellent.
Tom H March 12, 2007
11:05 am
love the gal with blond hair,white shirt and short jacket, great combo……also the gal with the brown hair,lite blue jacket,short skirt,dark nylons,great shoes and great legs.
Very diverse group of people and styles…..
lisa March 12, 2007
3:46 pm
you took the same pictures as pandahead. be original.
lisa March 12, 2007
3:50 pm
i wish people would stop wearing small children’s footwear.
rachel March 12, 2007
7:15 pm
Lisa–
I’m not allowed to go to the same events pandahead *might* go to? I didn’t know that pandahead had taken pictures (believe it or not, I don’t check her site every day nor do I intentionally copy her). She posted hers first. Wow.
Relax girlfriend!
I love black and brown together. It’s so french. I do agree that her tunic is a bit short to just be wearing with tights, but she looks cute.
lisa March 13, 2007
4:31 pm
her boots are a little off for the outfit. also, the over the shoulder shirts are “soooo three years ago”, not to mention being way too short. and she done forgot her pantaloons. have a nice day!
lisa March 13, 2007
4:40 pm
It’s not so much that it sucks that you took some of the same pictures (that just means that those people obviously looked REALLY good that night) It’s just that the whole “project beltway experience” is just a shoot-off of a more original idea.
I love her work. I just wish she was in better and more stores. I hope your blog will get the word out!
hah March 14, 2007
3:19 am
I’ll alert everyone who keeps a blog discussing their opinions, personal experiences and views on politics that they suck because they aren’t original.
Anyway, I definitely want to be there next time they have this event.
Great blog, Rachel!
Bigger Bitch Than You March 14, 2007
8:40 am
Yeah and you erase any blogs that critize the fashion YOU choose. Typical DC blogger narcissim that can’t take the heat. Get a life.
Jackie March 14, 2007
10:04 am
Lisa,
I don’t know if you have heard of this beautiful, expansive technology called the internet where the free flowing of similar and unique ideas are permitted?
Now, I’m no hipster by any means … and as much as I love pandaheads pictures of really cool kids that sit at Tryst writing poetry, listening to the Shins and have awesome jobs at the local Starbucks… (which I might add is REALLY original) I think Rachel has a bit of a different take on DC fashion. Now, I’m sure you went to a really important liberal arts college and have an important degree in art history, but I think you might be a little off base.
Other than that … I think you make a great point … oh wait, no, no I don’t.
GT March 14, 2007
10:09 am
These girls are a hot mess. They look dirty, sloppy, and unaware. Sorry Rachel, but you missed this time. Their clothing is completely unflattering. Their sad attempts to be individuals result in ugly that is only magnified by the power of three.
holiday March 14, 2007
10:19 am
I like the girl in the middle’s hair. What is up with all of the haters? It’s not really my style, but typical hipster wear.
lisa March 14, 2007
11:42 am
i like the bag of the one on OUR left
lisa March 14, 2007
11:42 am
and the boots
GT March 14, 2007
1:05 pm
Not Hating…just honesty. This blog is supposed to dispel the notion that DC is unstylish but this picture is a mess. This is NOT typical hipster wear…it could easily be found at earthy coffee shops around the country or in pottery studios at art institutes but it is certainly not worthy of praise…not because the look is bad in theory but because the execution is pathetic and unflattering.
lisa March 14, 2007
3:19 pm
That comment makes me ill. I hate the word “hipster” and all that bullshit and angst some people attach to it, but who you perceive as a fucking hipster is probably not who they are. If you get the chance to look at INTERNATIONAL fashion, you will see that many of these people that you call hipsters are, in fact, interested in european style and trends. It doesn’t mean that they work at Starbucks (how dare you!) or act a certain way. If you saw me walking down the street, you might want to tell me to brew you up a nice cafe late with extra foam, but i have a corporate job (gasp!) and friends from every walk of life. So before you go pointing your shit-stained fingers, please recognize that just because someone looks a certain way doesn’t mean the ARE a certain way. Jesus. I’m so tired of this! And yes, I am completely aware of the first amendment and our freedom of speech on the world wide web, but if you are going to do something that blatently knocks off something else, at least make it good. In closing, and slightly off subject (but, essentially, it really isn’t) if being a hipster means looking stylish and listening to music which isn’t mainstream and overproduced, writing great literary works, producing great works of art and DOING something to actually shift the world’s point of view a tiny bit, then i am proud of who i am. But don’t call me a fucking hipster. I got a little defensive, but if I don’t defend myself, who will.
Last comment ever. Bye-bye, Project Beltway.
Adam March 14, 2007
4:02 pm
whoa. I don’t mean to get into it, at all, but wanted to point out that there are style blogs all over–from Japan to Helsinki, literally–and many have been around longer than either pandahead or project beltway. So it’s not like this was either’s “original” idea.
GT March 14, 2007
7:00 pm
Amazing! Tucker Carlson’s pappy, Tara Conner’s cousin; Ms. Dundalk, and Diane Keaton in our fait city. Very stylish.
ann March 14, 2007
8:33 pm
H&M’s pants make me want to rip off the lower half of my body and start from scratch!ughgggh. i love this purple dress at the bottom here!
Tom H March 15, 2007
8:46 am
very simply and springy look..also looks very comfy……..
I think their dresses are cute, but the boots are probably a miss.
GT March 15, 2007
1:26 pm
Ok- thank you. This is noteworthy…Not certain that Gucci actually makes that bag but she looks cute. Outfit is great, proportions are risky but work, and the entire look is flattering. My only complaint is if the bag is a fake I would encourage her to use her obvious sense of style to find a purse that is hip- not because it has a signature logo but because it is cute.
Tom H March 15, 2007
2:54 pm
wow love the whole look……she is gorgeous
and has a great shape. this outfit shows off her great legs……..
Those boots remind me of a pair I had in 1984. Ugh. Ugg?
Lydia March 15, 2007
3:59 pm
I’m flattered that the outfit peiced together so well. Despite common belief, Gucci does make that bag. It is called the Abbey Medium.
Getting a “legg up” in D.C. means wearing things out of the ordinary, bags maybe not so common in generic shape but standard print.
Be fabulous!
GT March 15, 2007
4:15 pm
Great! I was not insinuating that the bag was definitely fake but was unfamiliar that style. Anyhow…great look, pretty girl, and perfect execution. Keep it up…we need it!
GT March 15, 2007
4:23 pm
Wow! HEEEEELLLLLOOOO people! The “miss” here is NOT the boots. It is the cut and proportions of the dress. The dress and the boots are actually cute and fun. The dress hits her in all the wrong places and probably adds 15 lbs to her. These shapeless dresses that are all the rage right now are actually very elitist. You can’t have boobs, curves, a waist, no waist, etc. They only look good on tall, flat, thin women. Belting is the right idea but this execution is poor. The belt hangling loosely accentuates her thickest area and shrinks her chest.
Other girl- boring and a bit juvenile. The offbeat shoe color only works when it is actually “offbeat.” By incorporating a shade of her cardigan she has actually clashed rather than made a statement.
Lydia March 15, 2007
4:30 pm
No insult taken! Stop by for a drink or two. Where some risky trends, and aspiring fashion designers gather. Aside from the generic leggings-trend, and patented toed pump… there are always out of towners willing to share the newest wave of fashion from their hometown. DC’s conservative style is slowly fading out.
GT March 15, 2007
4:31 pm
Tunic could be a bit longer but in theory a fantastic look….maybe try leggings instead of tights. Boots are “dead on” for the outfit and the wide neck tunic is not “soooo three years ago.” It is actually quite now.
The look is only perfected by the tightly pulled back hair. I would love to see an oversized slouchy shoulder bag (leather) with this…maybe camel or taupe or even a bold color.
miss kittin March 15, 2007
5:25 pm
^^ GT March, your analysis in these past few posts has been dead-on!
Anonymous March 15, 2007
7:51 pm
They look cute. Don’t really see the need to call them “pathetic,” seeing as they’re poor art students who are probably too cool to give a shit what angry snobs like GT think anyway…
holiday March 16, 2007
8:26 am
I’ve been to that store too. I wonder how she stays in business. She is so rude and bizarre. The other store sounds cute. I’m still very bummed that they closed A La Leila. It was such a cute boutique. I’ll have to head down to Old Town to check out Diva.
Tom H March 16, 2007
8:49 am
Rachel another great pic…love the white shirt and tight jeans……very cool look..
also cute gal…….
Tom H March 16, 2007
3:21 pm
love the shoes..I would love to see a nice pair of legs in them…….
I have some things there. They’re great and have some great finds! American in Paris is very odd – I haven’t been back since you practically felt me up.
missy March 16, 2007
8:43 pm
Whoops!!! I meant since “she” practically felt me up. Surfing blogs w. stolis clearly don’t mix..
dc girl March 17, 2007
4:27 pm
cute shoes. your website is wonderful–keep up the good work!
GT March 18, 2007
6:03 pm
The only thing “right” about this is the coat. Jeans, shirt, and glasses really don’t do anything and are actually dated..and not in a good vintage way.
This is proof positive that investing either time or money in pieces like coats, bags, and shoes is worthwhile- the outfit is kind of lame but the coat saves the day.
GT March 18, 2007
6:13 pm
I don’t even know what to say…more power to him for being “him” but another time that you’ve featured someone just for being weird or offbeat. I really don’t see fashion here…not because there are any missing labels but because it’s not really visually appealing and the proportions and haircut don’t actually add to his look, rather they detract. He is a cute guy but the mohawk makes his ears look big, the scarf is just kind of silly. Cool if he feels comfortable with this look but I just don’t understand what your point is…
I agree with GT. That coat begs for black skinny jeans (though I’m not sure how that style would look on *her*), some cute t-strap flats and maybe a pouf-sleeved Ella Moss-type tee in a bright color like poppy or royal blue. Those glasses need to be vamoosed, too. Nicole Richie she’s not.
Love that the buttons are covered with the same material as the coat!
I just got here, and I’ve already decided… you rock.
And I’m going to the Corcoran later this week just because of that suit.
Bigger Bitch Than You March 19, 2007
8:12 am
Yes she is pretty. Yes that smile would stop traffic. Yes the bag is stylish, but jean and a black shirt really doesn’t OVERTURN the fashion world. And the cheap boots. no. She’s pulling it off, but your photographers need to get out more.
Tom H March 19, 2007
11:06 am
she is gorgeous…..and what a body..there is nothing more to say..
GT March 19, 2007
11:40 am
Everything works! Not risky but effective and a pretty girl. I don’t care how much the boots, bag, etc. cost- they are worn correctly and she looks hot.
Im in the last pic blue shirt, I loved your article and the pics. Maybe next time i can get a close up. Thanks
-Mike M
Erin March 20, 2007
8:26 am
Oooh! Now he looks good!
Candycorn March 20, 2007
4:33 pm
Rachel, I really really want to like you and I really really want to like your site. But every entry just drives home the point to me that you don’t really have a handle on what makes good fashion. Your biggest weak spot seems to be your utter lack of a design sense and that is key to good fashion.
Yes, the bag is great and the scarf is great and the hoodie is great. But together? Ugh. There’s absolutely no cohesion between the various pieces, and thus there is no total look. All of the pieces have bright patterns, but there’s no palette and no discernible theme to this look. The yellow in the scarf is disjointed against the brighter red in the hoodie. The pink and blue in the bag clash against the more muted colors in the scarf and hoodie. The white scarf as a canvas for the floral pattern is jarring against the beige canvas for the hoodie pattern. Every element just seems to work against every other element.
I would chalk this up to just a lapse, but I haven’t seem a single selection by you that did not miss the point when it comes to good design. It’s not enough to know the names on the labels, you have to be able to harmoniously match the different elements. After all, anyone can figure out the players in the fashion world by reading a couple magazines.
susan March 20, 2007
7:10 pm
then why don’t you go back to ready fashion magazines and get off this blog! she’s having fun and takes pictures of interesting people. get over yourself
Sarah March 20, 2007
7:11 pm
While this outfit isn’t my style, I have to say I like it! It’s sooo easy to throw on neutrals and run out the door, even on the weekends. I like that she isn’t afraid of color or if they work together in a design sense. Not everyone worries about looking like they popped out of a fashion spread. I love your “city style sense” anthropology.
holiday March 20, 2007
7:42 pm
No one died and made you Andre Leon Talley. I’m just not really sure I understand the comments critiquing and nitpicking with the outfits. Sure it’s not something I would personally wear, but the point of this website is showcasing people in DC that have a definitive sense of what style means to them.
Taylor March 20, 2007
11:53 pm
I echo holiday. candycorn, if Rachel’s concept was to style these people herself that’d be one thing. She’s not able to “create” “good design” by stopping people on the street. Some of her coolest shots are of people who’re wearing crazy stuff or are just doing something different. It’s more about the people than anything. This can’t, by the nature of it, be about people who look fashiony all of the time. Besides if it were, she wouldn’t have a ton to post!
Tom H March 21, 2007
8:26 am
Rachel your doing a great job just keep it up
we all look forward to your pics everyday……….
Tom H March 21, 2007
10:45 am
very casual and cute… love the
boots….
Busted! March 21, 2007
12:16 pm
The last five comments were made by the same person.
Candycorn March 21, 2007
12:34 pm
Oh, please, Rachel’s blog is about people that she thinks are stylish, but she routinely picks people that aren’t. That’s not nitpicking what people are wearing (and even what I stated about this particular person was to illustrate my criticisms of Rachel’s chocies). That’s holding Rachel to what this project is supposed to be about. And that’s not a bad or unreasonable thing.
Rachel’s grasp of design is just plain nonexistent. I would love for it to be different, because I think that there is alot of good things to say about style in DC. Rachel could really do alot of good here. But that’s not going to happen if she sees every criticism as an attack, and if her sorority sisters are going to jump into the defense without even thinking about what is being offered. Rather than attack me for having the gall to disagree with Rachel (and for calling her design sense into question), why not address the actual points I brought up? Go back and check; you’ll see that I made some very specific points about the outfit that any of you can address.
Unless, of course, the point of this blog is to just show off Rachel’s ability to take pictures of people wearing clothes. I’m pretty sure anyone can do that.
Candycorn March 21, 2007
12:54 pm
Rachel, this is much better than your last entry (though I’m not sure what the homeless person in the background has to do with fashion or style—eventually, you’re going to get a homeless person or two in your pics, considering the number of homeless that live in the city, and especially in that particular doorway). I think what makes this outfit is not only the palette but also the clean lines. I’m not keen on popped collars with sportscoats but I think it’s okay here. My only real concern is that the color of the pants are not closer to the color of the coat. If the coat were a little less warm or if the pants were a little less cold, the outfit would be better. But that’s minor—it doesn’t mess up the overall look.
The hat, of course, makes the whole outfit. Would the popped collar seem as jaunty or the lines seem as classic if not for the depth the hat tells? I don’t think so!
Much better.
kat March 21, 2007
1:15 pm
I’ve been curious about going into American In Paris, but now that I’ve seen your blog I definently will not.
I will check out Diva
I moved to Alexandria after living in Logan Circle and being used to shopping in the U Street area; the shopping experience in Old Town has some odd moments. I don’t know what it is but the sales people tend to be more obnoxious towards you in Old Town if you are not dressed like some rich preppy.
DC March 21, 2007
2:23 pm
Not crazy about the coat/jacket, but I do like the jeans with the boots.
before there were cool skate songs and you could purchase a skater uniform at pac sun or where ever the fuck, the same scene was in dc and everywhere else….. where was the press then. nice try but in five years when the pop fad of sk8ing isn’t rad anymore where will you be? i’ll be somewhere like the shitty side of shaw… the same place i was before it was cool to be there……… but whatevs
this is the worst article ever and you suck at taking photos!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Fashion Expert March 21, 2007
11:03 pm
I’m pretty sure this is one of the worst blogs and/or websites ever created.
Anon March 22, 2007
8:53 am
When are the bug-eyed sunglasses are going to go away!? They look ridiculous. Someone please send the memo.
I love the blouse on the right though.
GT March 22, 2007
8:59 am
There is absolutely nothing right about this. The suit pieces clash- not that mixing and matching is bad but this does not work. The popped collar is obscene and makes the look “costumey” as opposed to cool and the shoes are a hot mess. This is bad Usher impression. I choose the homeless person. I like the bold hat color!
GT March 22, 2007
9:05 am
I have to say…If Rachel and her friends don’t want this blog to be criticized or critiqued based on its fashion theme and charter then perhaps she should rename it “Project Fun Photos.”
Rachel’s peeps should be flattered that people are actually reading this blog regardless of the tone of their contributions.
I don’t agree with some of the opinions Rachel has, but I think it’s clear she has a developed sense of what she likes, doesn’t like, and most important, *why* she feels that way. If any of us who hold fashion dear are able to defend our sense of style while still keeping an open mind – i.e. not particularly liking something but admitting it looks good on someone else and/or fits that person’s own unique bent – then who’s to say who does or doesn’t “have a handle on what makes good fashion?”
I’m not Andre Leon Talley, either, but I think I know enough to firmly believe there is no sole accepted definition of “good” and “not good” when it comes to fashion. In Andre’s world, that metallic Oscar de la Renta python bolero he forced upon Jennifer Hudson at the Oscar’s was “good.” Most disagreed with him, he still stands firm in his decision, and all of this just legitimates my point even more — we each have our own preferences when it comes to style, and as long as we can articulate them and defend them persuasively, we’re all doing our jobs well.
Rachel — keep it up. I check your site everyday and look forward to your great photos and commentary.
I hope you don’t mind, but I featured the “Bad Ass Mama” tee on my blog today — I ordered it yesterday and plan to wear it to the bad-ass gun expo in Dulles on April 1st. Yee-haw!
alex March 23, 2007
9:16 am
I don’t think a lot of the commenters here and on other posts realize that this isn’t meant to be a “fashion” blog! It’s meant largely as an anthropological effort. Rachel often points out abstract concepts (the mix of color on this person, the texture of this, whatever) instead of praising an overall look head-to-toe. Scott from The Satorialist has to defend this to his readers sometimes too. Very few people are gonna look like flawless fashion plates all the time. I mean, you guys live here in DC too! You know this. Have a broader definition of style.
Caroline March 23, 2007
10:10 am
Haha, I think I have that purse! Target has great stuff; I’ve gotten some of my favorite shoes and accessories there. Unfortunately, the clothes have a tendency to run big, so it’s almost impossible to find stuff for a small petite girl.
Tom H March 23, 2007
10:59 am
this guy has it together for sure…….totally cool……
Tom H March 23, 2007
11:48 am
Wow Katherine Kennedy and the other gal who is posing are gorgeous……great outfits also…..
GT March 23, 2007
3:45 pm
This guy looks great…embraced his own style and executed well. Better!
Tom H March 26, 2007
1:09 pm
The gal in the 3rd pic with the red dress is a doll. What a figure. That dress was made for her……..Also the 3 ladies in the last pic have very different styles. Good pic of them.
Barbara March 26, 2007
2:00 pm
Overrated!
holiday March 27, 2007
9:32 am
That dress is so cute. Is that guy behind her holding her monogrammed bag though?
Tom H March 27, 2007
10:01 am
she looks so elegent in that black dress……
Rude, Rude, Rude March 27, 2007
10:58 am
Thanks for deleting all of our comments. I guess you can’t handle the truth about your site and the people you photograph. Good luck failing.
Rude, Rude, Rude March 27, 2007
11:00 am
She looks like she’s wearing a curtain from her grandpa’s van.
a4nick8tor March 27, 2007
12:57 pm
The two guys behind her are a pair of the worst DC has to offer.
I love the color (who’s ever seen brown eyelet, anyway?), the fabric, but most especially the cut-outs along the plunge of the neckline. I wish I knew what shoes she wore with it. Assuming this dress *is* brown (someone said black, but on my screen it looks chocolatey), I’d have gone with a nude peeptoe. Eyelet always looks funny with dressy sandals, because like you said, it is by nature an “innocent” fabric. In this case, vamp shoes plus eyelet looks confusing, not stylishly antithetical.
The only way this could have looked better is if this pretty blonde had a pretty tan.
Rachel Gorlin March 27, 2007
1:27 pm
The photo was taken on 18th Street in Adams Morgan, but Secondi is at the corner of Connecticut and R NW, just above Dupont Circle.
rachel March 27, 2007
1:41 pm
Rachel–
Bahh, whoops…changed. I should’ve had coffee this am!
I’ve been following your blog for a while, as well as your posts on DCist.com. You can put me down as a fan. You’ve been beat up on unfairly on DCist.com. That’s a shame because what you’re doing is actually quite interesting. Your column on DCist.com is one of the funniest, wittiest and most clever things they have going. I encourage you to stick with it.
As a photographer, I think you’re pushing the concept of street photography in an interesting direction. Your straight forward snapshot aesthetic, combined with your cusory comments on the people and clothing items featured in your photographs, plays with the rich history of street photography and accompanying explanatory text (either published or as gallery wall text.)
I actually think your documentary-type D.C. fashion project rises to the level being an online art project in and of itself. I’ve added you to the D.C. area art blog section on my blog roll. Keep rocking with this project. I’m hardly a fashion expert, but I know original art when I see it. Project Beltway is a unqiue work of online art.
Sincerely,
The Right Reverend James W. Bailey
A. Kamryn Kennedy March 27, 2007
6:34 pm
One of the best qualities about this city is its unapologetic cosmopolitan nature; it is nice when events and the reporting (or representation) of them, celebrate that. Kudos.
Also, fashion events that promote local and grassroots designers are wonderful. I am so tired of over-industrialized, commercial fashion. My boyfriend recently bought me a “designer” handbag with the standard 5000 logos all over it. The poor guy did what he thought would please me (because it was expensive), but I could not hide my contempt. Looking at that adorable “Kris” clutch on this page made me think of exactly what I would have preferred—then I looked at the website and saw even better. I sent him the link and I think he starting to understand that I am not 15 anymore.
Kristin Ledden March 27, 2007
8:22 pm
I think Lauren Bailey is adorable and so is her Kris clutch!!!
Jules March 28, 2007
10:31 am
Rachel, please ignore the haters. Your blog is completely charming. Love the photos.
She obviously was attacked by several homeless men whose coats all stuck to her. Or she was “launched” in some horrid cheap couch fabric store explosion.
Ew.
Tom H March 28, 2007
3:01 pm
very pretty girl but I have to agree with Bigger Bitch ( I can’t believe I am saying that) but the coat must go…….
? March 28, 2007
5:57 pm
It looks like Urban Outfitters threw up on these girls.
miss kittin March 28, 2007
9:32 pm
sorry. i agree with bigger bitch and tom h! that coat is freaking hideous.
g is for giraffe March 28, 2007
9:44 pm
Check out the shoes!!!
holiday March 29, 2007
9:12 am
I think he is so cute. I love the hoodie with the blazer. Such a great look.
CJ March 29, 2007
9:24 am
My girlfriend does the hoodie and blazer thing all the time. On the right person it’s a killer combo!
GT March 29, 2007
11:49 am
Look is fab! Girl is gorgeous…this is one of the features worth mentioning. BBTY, Tom H, and miss kittin are the reason DC fashion sucks. They praise someone for daring to wear a blazer and a hoodie (soooo risky) and crticize this chick who is owning her look. Boo!
GT March 29, 2007
11:52 am
Ummm ladies? Gwen Stefani has the INS looking for your asses. You either dance or deport.
GT March 29, 2007
11:58 am
Dear James,
You really need to get out more or less depending on what you are doing when you go out…either way your outrageous admiration and passion for this blog signals the need for some serious self-evaluation. Perhaps you are the author’s dad or bf cleverly posing as a fan?
I’m all for owning a look, but this coat is not something I would ever characterize as cute. Not at all. For me, it’s less the colors than the style. In all-black or all-brown, I’d still think the fit and the too-long sleeves make her look a bit dumpy. And with a gigantic silver tote? Sorry, not a fan.
But then again, I’ve never been on board for the knee-length sweater look.
I’m from New Orleans. We only do the passionate and outrageous where I come from, whether we go out or not.
As far as self-evaluation goes: I gave up hope for that after Katrina. Too much post-Katrina self-evaluation leads to suicide. I’m not interested in going there until I resolve all my outstanding F.E.M.A. claims. I don’t plan on leaving this planet until I have every dime in the bank from the federal government that it owes me for destroying my home.
I stand by my comments. Ms. Gorlin’s site is more interesting than 80 per cent of the art blogs that I’m aware of. I would say so on DCist.com, but don’t have the energy to argue with the anonymous haters who no doubt probably think Sanjaya is the greatest singer since Jesus ordained Elvis as God’s choir director for North America.
I’m not Ms. Gorlin’s father (I have no children that I’m aware of), nor am I her best friend – I no longer have any best friends because all my best friends from New Orleans were forced to relocate to Houston or Atlanta after the levees broke. [Traditionally, people from Houston and Atlanta have been mortal enemies of the people of New Orleans, so I was sorta bound by historic tradition to reevaluate my best friends based upon their evolving storm-damaged geography. Hopefully, now that my former best friends are living outside of New Orleans, they are taking advantage of a cultural environment that encourages in some serious self-evaluation. Of course, all of their F.E.M.A. claims have been settled, so that certainly facilitates the desire to engage in private introspection.]
Anyway, I like what Ms. Gorlin is doing with this blog and think that it is quite artful. Maybe I should have simply said that. But we don’t simply say simple things so simply down in New Orleans, but that’s another story.
Sincerely,
The Right Reverend James W. Bailey
Kate March 29, 2007
1:48 pm
He is quite attractive in the first place, but his outfit makes him even more handsome. I love a man who can pull off that slim silouette.
Hmm… I personally think these girls look fly, especially the one in the yellow, turquoise and red. And I’d love to know where she got those shoes from.
What’s overrated: the jacket, the store or the derm? You’re wrong on all three I think!
rachel March 29, 2007
4:12 pm
Just a note–
My last name is actually Cothran, not Gorlin (Rachel Gorlin is a commenter…same first name though…spelled the correct way I might add)! Thanks for your support James, *tips hat.*
Jessica March 29, 2007
7:19 pm
Boy oh boy! He’s a real catch. I wonder if he’s in a band…
miss kittin March 29, 2007
9:41 pm
Believe me, GT, a blazer + hoodie is NOT my idea of risky fashion — and I can get behind what this chick is trying to do, but the execution is all wrong. She’s a cute girl with a great shape, and one of few people who’s been photographed on this blog who can rock the skinny jeans with flats, but I’m sorry, that wrap sweater/bathrobe/Joseph’s technicolor dreamcoat thing is fugly as sin. You can blame us all you want for making “DC fashion suck” for having this opinion, but for what it’s worth: (1) you have never met me in person and have no idea how I dress — and I’ll bet you that it’s cuter than most of the people photographed on this blog dress and (2) how in the world could certain people be responsibile for the fact that certain other people in DC can’t freaking look in the mirror in the morning and dress themselves like decent human beings?
shl2108 March 30, 2007
9:45 am
that jacket is marc by marc jacobs. i bought it for my fiance. it’s a good jacket for a hoodie and jeans.
Linda Hibbard March 30, 2007
10:37 am
Lauren Bailey is fantastic and so are her handbags. I have one of her James Satchels and I don’t know how I ever got along with out it. Women, as well as men, often comment on the satchel, they all are so impressed with the look and the softest leather imaginable. For spring I think I’m going to have to have one of her Miles Hobos!!
Ok, THAT’s IT, this is a parody blog. There is NO WAY that I can actually think this is real. Unless Doctor Who has transported be to the East End circa 1983 without me knowing it.
Losers. All of you.
Schnooders March 30, 2007
12:36 pm
I have to say, I agree with the B*tch. That is a really ugly shoe. Really ugly. Your eye for fashion is quite scary.
Schnooders March 30, 2007
12:47 pm
I have to agree with the others. As someone who rocked the BCBG wrap with Via Spiga stilettos yesterday, I think there is a sense of fashion in D.C. It’s just hidden among the powersuits and hipsters.
This coat would be better WITHOUT the overlap. It would work a little better as more of a “lab coat” with no belt. The pattern is too busy (not necessarily a bad thing) to have any extra fabric overlapping and tying with a belt.
Just because Gwen Stefan is a good singer (debatable) doesn’t mean she can design clothes.
holiday March 30, 2007
1:02 pm
Ugly-Cool indeed. I would have to pass. This is like when Mischa Barton told me Keds were cool again. I didn’t buy that either.
Tom H March 30, 2007
4:24 pm
Miss Kitten you are right on…..you go girl……..
GT March 31, 2007
12:33 am
Via Spiga and BCBG!!!!! Oh my! Where did you ever find those couture lines…Yawn.
Thanks for making my point.
Miss Kittin- people like you can be blamed for the lack of fashion because you are the people who feel empowered to comment on fashion yet all of your comments….zzzzzz. Sorry, dozed off for a sec. Oh yeah: boring, your comments are boring, leading me to believe that you support “boring” and spread “boring.”
Tom H: You go girl? Are you a member of the Spice Girls or just an avid fan of The View?
GT March 31, 2007
12:44 am
HAHAHAHAHAHAHH….oh people, people, people. I’m sure he is a lovely person and a fine gentleman but subject of fashion critique he is not.
Sensible, not offensive, but not to be hailed.
GT March 31, 2007
12:58 am
Actually cute…would need to be selectively incorporated. Black Susana Monaco tube dress, chunky lucite necklace…red or blue. Solid! Good pick Rachel.
BBTY- I’m sure the Gap or Wet Seal has something you could wear with these…
GT- right as usual!
GT March 31, 2007
1:09 am
Kris Kross will make you jump, jump! That’s all I have in me for this one- lost cause.
GT March 31, 2007
1:13 am
Really Rachel, you are going to delete the comments of those who don’t agree with you? Is this Project Beltway or Mein Kampf???????????????
GT March 31, 2007
1:24 am
I think Lisa is a cutter. Someone check her thighs! That’s not funny! Okay, it is.
Stop cutting yourself Lisa and share your wit and hipster mentality with the world!
I have a pair of Toms in navy – *all* navy – and they’re just okay. Not my favorite flats, not my most comfortable flats, but sometimes I reach for them when I’m walking to my friend’s rooftop pool on a summer Sunday or when I go to upstate Michigan for a week in August.
Even though they’re not me, I envy the person who could pull these off – maybe Rosario Dawson in a pair of black skinny jeans and a red Rachel Pally tee?
What I don’t get about all these Rachel-haters is why they keep coming back and why they insist on telling her she’s so awful. Why don’t you all just move on to another site?
A.L. Talley March 31, 2007
3:36 pm
I think TOMS are fab…comfortable, fashion forward, AND the proceeds go toward a good cause. Plus they were featured in a recent issue of Vogue. Good find Rachel!
miss kittin March 31, 2007
6:21 pm
^ GT, oooooooh, wow, that hurts, and at the same time makes soooo much sense, too — so my posts are “boring” (I’ve made, what, two of them?) so obviously I dress boringly and am responsible for people in DC who dress boringly as well. Wow. Impeccable logic. Well, I’m sorry I’m not as fascinating and insightful a poster as you, whose comments consistently condone hideousness. Because fashion really is about looking “different” and “edgy” . . . and hideous. Thanks for your infinite wisdom.
Natasha April 1, 2007
5:44 am
Dear brother, you have the best outfit ever, and you’re such a gentleman Oh, and your band is so neat! I can’t wait for your cd. I got clay on my starburst
I’d love to wear these shoes with my piano key necktie.
rdhd April 2, 2007
12:50 pm
He looks shabby. And looks like every other indie-rocker guy on every street corner. He hit every right indie-kid look: hoodie, too-small sports-coat, cheap trainers. Oh, and beat up old a bike.
Anon April 2, 2007
1:13 pm
Woo. Good. You need the break. Regroup and come back tomorrow with some real fashion, okay?
We like the fact we didn’t have to vomit this morning. So please, take the week. It’s recess we could stand a week or two without eating a whole roll of tums.
DC girl April 2, 2007
3:30 pm
Anon and Bigger Bitch Than You:
Why are do you continue to come back to this blog EVERY DAY if you don’t like it? Personally if I don’t like something, I don’t bother with it. Now here is a thought!
DC girl April 2, 2007
3:31 pm
whoops, typo. It should read “Why do you continue…”
I have a job April 2, 2007
4:26 pm
Hey Anon and Bigger Bitch Than You:
Perhaps you should use this time to job hunt … clearly you do not have enough to do.
Lisa April 2, 2007
4:48 pm
Why is it that so many fashion blogs have a group of people trashing it who just can’t stay away yet complain about being physically ill everytime they visit. There needs to be some sort of therapy for these people, because clearly they need help.
However, no publicity is really bad publicity. So you’re continued site traffic and bitching about the site probably helps this blog out.
You Are All Dumb April 2, 2007
5:23 pm
Well, asshats, they come to this site to make fun of you because your sense of fashion sucks. And DUH they drive up your traffic so others can make fun of you too. HELLO! SIGH…
Bigger Bitch Than You and Anon are right on the money again about Project Beltway. This site is awful!! We come back in the hopes that one day Rachel will figure out that she knows nothing about fashion and quit. We’re doing an online intervention.
Oh and all the Rachel supporters, who are clearly her long-time friends and Rachel herself using different aliases, need to GIVE IT UP!
Normal April 2, 2007
8:11 pm
No, actually, we are people who enjoy this site, the photos of real DC people (those who have $$ to spend on awesome clothes and those who look great without lots of $$), and the view point of a normal young DC resident. Also people who enjoy this blog have a soul, maybe that’s the problem Anon, Bigger Bitch Than You and PB smells all have in common. Moreover, if they have sooo much time to bitch about how bad PB is, why don’t they get off their asses and create their own blog? Guess they’re lacking balls too.
Stacy April 2, 2007
11:52 pm
Note comment number 3. Is “DC Girl” the author of this blog? Looooooove how she can’t proofread, nor can she pick out decent fashion.
Hey, project beltway chick! I was at a rest stop on the Jersey Turnpike tonight and one of the toilets was covered in trash bags. I guess so people wouldn’t use. But I took a picture and posted it on my blog as FASHION! I’m so kewl!
Roofie is voting for himself April 3, 2007
12:02 am
So for all of Rachel’s die-hard critics, here’s a simple question…
What do you consider fashion?
Seriously, I’m interested. Because not once has anyone offered any suggestions or guidance or anything. Just insults and not much else.
Let’s be constructive in our criticism, thanks.
holiday April 3, 2007
9:33 am
I like her bob and the coat. I was never a fan of those Marc Jacobs shoes (they give me a Steve Madden ‘98 flashback), but she pulls them off quite well. My biggest complaint is her posture. As many people have pointed out on this site, the most important part of fashion is being able to own your look. If she is going to wear a mini, she better work.
Anon April 3, 2007
10:21 am
Veronica, you are wrong. See: Ugly Yellow Coat from a few days ago. I believe someone suggested it would be better with less fabric and no belt. That’s a suggestion, is it not?
Love the mini and the legs, like the hair, but not a huge fan of the rest, especially her hunched posture, sheer black hose and bare face.
I’d have chosen a stiletto pump – round-toed or peeptoe (I really can’t stand the wedge) – a cropped bell coat with Peter Pan collar and 3/4 sleeves and a simple mascara/base shadow/bronzer/sheer gloss makeup routine. Maybe a wide headband, too.
Was this taken yesterday? If it was, why would she be in a wool coat in 80+ degree weather?
rachel April 3, 2007
12:07 pm
The photo was taken on Friday actually, which was a gorgeous day. The coat wasn’t a heavy wool one though. And I agree about the posture. Often, confidence and an “I look great” attitude are a person’s most valuable accessories. And they cost nothing! I think tall women do the hunch thing sometimes which is too bad; it’s always best to stand tall, and yeah, “rock it.”
Funny, I saw you take this picture and wondered, “Is that Project Beltway?” Secretly, I’ll admit that I was hoping you’d stop me to photograph the retro look I was sporting that day.
caroline April 4, 2007
9:06 am
You could do a whole series on the staff (and many of the customers) at Bang. They are seriously some of the most fashionable and hippest people in DC.
Wow Ann Taylor. I wish I could afford couture like that. She’s so original and that color REALLY flatters her. The hair style is also cutting edge. We’ll see that on Giselle soon.
Wow, she just got back from Iraq? And she’s so proud to serve her country she’s still wearing her desert camo tent! That’s patriotic. Oh wait, maybe she’s starting a new trend I’ve seen down south…FEMA tarp creations. That’s awesome! DC IS CUTTING EDGE!
Anon April 4, 2007
10:40 am
If you took my picture then wrote about my outfit, “It looked way more expensive than it probably was,” you would be hard pressed to find a place in this city where I wouldn’t hunt you down. Fashion, much like class, is not dictated by amount of money.
Also, if you really were into chronicling the fashion of DC, you would have asked her what she paid for it. All part of the information we need, you know?
John April 4, 2007
11:09 am
HOT!
GT April 4, 2007
11:17 am
So, I am the first to criticize when deserved but by Rachel saying that “the jacket looks more expensive than it probably was” is in no way offensive to the subject. Anyone who has left their home in the last say…decade knows the average price point at Ann Taylor…if you are ignorant enough to think that one cannot associate a general monetary value based on distributor than you should probably not be commenting on fashion blogs.
BBTY- where do you live that you expect Rachel to find couture lined streets? Ann Taylor = major snooze but the girl looks cute. My only beef with the posts are when the clothes are truly not flattering or are half-ass attempts at recent trends. Does this chick knock my socks off? No, but is it bad fashion? Absolutely not! More importantly, was the girl trying to rock couture or was she just trying to go to work? Pick your battles because your above post makes you sound ridiculous.
GT April 4, 2007
11:21 am
BBTY-
Jealous of the Spy bag and Gucci pumps much? Amazing how insecurities and jealousy read this well online.
D'vine April 4, 2007
11:50 am
Who is doing their make-up and what are their hours?!?
Anon April 4, 2007
11:51 am
That’s your opinion GT. OPINION. What I posted was mine. I WOULD BE offended if someone said, “Hey, that’s a cute shirt and looks way more expensive than it probably was!”
I am not jealous of anything that makes anyone look like that, “GT”. Money is money but that doesn’t make you fashionable. I am sure you think your H&M looks like Prada. You probably live in Clinton and still wear “TOMMY” clothes and pantyhose under your shorts (with jelly shoes).
Anon April 4, 2007
12:28 pm
I actually despise people who spend a lot of money on clothes. When there is so much poverty in the world, people have some nerve buying $2000 purses. If I had that kind of money, I would be helping everyone I could. So, to say BBTY is jealous of a Gucci purse, think what you want. I am sure BBTY prefers to spend that money on real investments like property and 401k’s.
This is so true about the campus being a catwalk of sorts. On some fashionistas, it looks like the 80’s threw up on them. So faux pas. On a similar note, Howard University is having its annual Spring Fashion Show tomorrow evening and its an out doors one, complete with tents–a la Bryant Park!
GT April 4, 2007
1:56 pm
Ignorance is blissful, no? What if you had prefaced it with…”it is from Wal-Mart” as this girl did with Ann Taylor? Would you still be offended or flattered? I thought so.
GT April 4, 2007
2:01 pm
Great post! These girls are a blast, own their looks, and have fun with fashion. NICE
holiday April 4, 2007
2:19 pm
I love these photos. All of these girls have such a great sense of style. I only wish that a small fraction of the girls I went to college with had so much style. They were obsessed with Express! Fashion show sounds like a blast. I’m jealous.
I live down the street from Shaw Jr. High, where they have school uniforms. I love the way those girls dress to distinguish themselves from the masses. They colorful scarves, bangles and wrestling shoes. They inspire me to be a little more adventurous in my clothing choices.
rachel April 4, 2007
3:00 pm
This was definitely one of the most fun “assignments” I’ve done for a post…the kind of thing I feel like I could do more of without a full-time job! I suspect that doing this for all of the area schools will be pretty interesting, especially once they’re all complete. It’s not going to be just about the clothes, but the personalities and attitude. The poses alone will tell so much.
Anon April 4, 2007
3:57 pm
Snore…..I just fell asleep trying to figure out what the hell you are talking about? And you can’t ask a question then write “thought so” as if you asked me in real time and I just didn’t answer. Idiot.
what a great set! i love how everyone’s wearing so much color – spring has totally sprung.
miss kittin April 4, 2007
4:40 pm
This is one of my favorite posts of yours so far! Can’t wait to see what the guys are wearing. . .
GT April 4, 2007
5:59 pm
Anon-
Are you a cutter or have you just watched one too many episodes of My So Called Life? Take a deep breath, light some incense, turn on your fav. Indigo Girls CD, and try not to be so angry.
Okay, maybe this is me showing my old age of 27, but aside from the last two looks (which I LOVE) and maaaybe the first one, I think the rest of these girls are not only trying more than a bit too hard to look trendy but some of them are also pretty inappropriately dressed for school.
Bright turquoise flats, leopard print leggings, cropped striped top and flashy aviators all in the same ensemble? And short shorts and wedged heels for class?? I went to a pretty trendy, liberal university that was right next door to perhaps the most avant garde college crowd there is (RISD), but no one on either campus would *ever* wear short shorts and heels or bare cleavage to seminar.
Seems more like party-wear than day-wear — that’s my main point.
I don’t like making overtly negative comments on blogs, but the girl in the high-waisted skirt, lavender tie and enormous yellow bangs trying to pull off the “Gwen”…that’s just painful to look at.
Rachel, you picked the PERFECT DAY to go shoot on the yard. It’s like a rite of spring on campus. That very first Friday when the temperatures shoot up and the sun comes means the yard becomes an instant fashion show. And you gotta love the enery of the Howard girls. That’s how we do.
Tom H April 5, 2007
10:05 am
Love the whole look. Pretty lady,great legs,and love the heels.
susan April 5, 2007
10:20 am
pointed toe shoes? out or in?
holiday April 5, 2007
10:44 am
I’m dying for a Burberry trench. I was just thinking this morning about how and when I could splurge for one. Maybe if I dropped my DVF habit.
Susan-I don’t think pointy toed shoes ever really go out, except for the really long witchy ones. Personally, I’m kind of into the almond toed pumps right now. Not quite round and not quite pointy.
holiday April 5, 2007
10:46 am
I appreciate his bowtie. More men in DC should wear them, but I wish he had worn a pocket square in a brighter color so I can see it. I think they are great accessories.
rachel April 5, 2007
10:57 am
Excellent question to pose! What do you all think?
Just like so many other things, I think they go in and out. It changes with the seasons too. Sometimes pointed-toe shoes just look too harsh…however, they do elongate the leg, especially with pants.
acp April 5, 2007
11:07 am
I have to say, there’s always going to be some shoe shape that is MORE in than others, but being a slave to trends is tired. The almond toe heels are super hot and they look good with so much! But at the same time, I think it’s weird to say that pointed toe shoes are ‘out.’ That would be like saying any shoe that isn’t a platform is out.
I don’t know if they’re “out” in the mainstream, but for me, I’ve cleared my closet of them. It’s just too severe a look for my taste. I much prefer the round-toe, peeptoe or almond-toe.
I’ve talked to a number of fashion-appreciative and fashion-ignorant men about this point (no pun intended), and they all admit they’ve never really liked the pointy-toe for the same reason I don’t — too harsh and too overtly trying to convey that powerful-career-woman look. I’m not saying we should dress to please men – not *entirely* – but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t pay their opinions some attention.
Plus, on a practical level, there are very few women (including this lovely woman in the picture) who take good enough care of the point, that inevitably ends up scuffed, stubbed and discolored. After a few weeks of wear and tear on the cracked sidewalks and cobblestones of K St. and Georgetown, respectively, even a gorgeous pair of Stuart Weitzman ‘Fever’ pumps are going to look sub-standard.
well speaking for “this” guy those shoes look great but Johanna is right if not taken care that would be a problem… she just has great legs and the shoes match very well……
Erin April 5, 2007
3:44 pm
The two in the black hats look best — they’re awesome!
GT April 5, 2007
4:13 pm
Ehhh, less impressed by the guys. The girls from yesterday’s post were money.
JK April 5, 2007
4:14 pm
Great post – these women are gorgeous and seem to have fun with each trend they are choosing to rock.
GT April 5, 2007
4:19 pm
Tibi is fab. The shoes are Jem (truly, truly, truly outrageous). If Amy Grant was going to church pig-picking and needed something to wear with a denim jumper, I would recommend those sandals.
GT April 5, 2007
4:27 pm
Tom,
Are you a motivational speaker or a pervert? Every one of your posts is about the woman’s physique or degree of attractiveness…the first couple times I thought “nice guy” but it’s getting weird and desperate.
ok…that FLYING bag…i have that in navy!!! It was a free gift from FLYING magazine back in the 80’s! Now that i look at it on here, that logo is kinda kick ass. I’m off to rifle through my dad’s old shit!
GT April 5, 2007
6:25 pm
Meh. I am not sure what to say about these pins or the bags. Very craft fair- fun in theory but actually executed seems like a big fat mess to me. They fit with the crap at Pulp that you want to buy because its funny or unique but at the end of the day its just cheezy and borderline trashy.
GT April 5, 2007
6:46 pm
Really holiday? Perhaps you and Tucker Carlson should edit Vogue…
Unless you’re an oldie or at a formal event, rocking the bowtie is not alright.
LJG April 5, 2007
7:12 pm
As a female, I have to weigh in on the bow tie. I think its hot-and wish guys would wear them more often.
GT April 5, 2007
7:26 pm
Is this the Young Republican’s blog now? LJG- perhaps you should try Connecticut.
Tom H April 6, 2007
9:32 am
Ok GT where do I start…….not a pervert or
speaker,not weird or desperate just an average
guy who enjoys this site. I see plenty of different fashion good and bad and also some attractive people. I am a “nice guy” and I Thank You for noticing.
anon April 6, 2007
9:36 am
And if you had asked her to step back less than an inch, we would be able to actually see what she’s wearing. Ugh, such a bad photographer.
Ann April 6, 2007
9:42 am
That’s weird. I can see what she’s wearing.
rdhd April 6, 2007
10:13 am
I’m ultra-liberal and think the bow-tie can be perfectly appropriate on the right guy. There was another guy at Farragut Park yesterday in a bow-tie who looked fantastic also. Almost sporty with his cap (which the wind blew off his head into me as I sat doing my crossword puzzle).
My only complaint with the guy is that he seems to be wearing black–I’m so tired of black. Or maybe it’s dark brown–in which case he should have worn brown shoes.
holiday April 6, 2007
10:14 am
I think anon was just suggesting that she stand in the sunlight rather than the shade.
I’m actually hoping that you expand the concept to other cities. For example, I’d love to see your take on the fashion sensibilities of the people of my hometown of New Orleans. Unlike the stereotypes, not every guy in the Big Easy dresses like Ignatius J. Reilly! Although, to be honest, most men don’t dress like Harry Connick, Jr., either!
But fashionable or not, all of us from New Orleans wear white boots when we go shrimping: http://www.whitebootbrigade.org/ We need all kinds of help (including fashion advice) in New Orleans these days. For example, it is ok to wear white shrimp boots after Labor Day?!
Seriously, I very much enjoy reading your blog and viewing the images you post. I hope more come to appreciate the art of what you’re doing. I wish you all the best with your project.
James
rachel April 6, 2007
12:35 pm
Wow, sorry guys. Believe me, this was NOT meant to make fun AT ALL…I like to take an anthropological approach to the site sometimes, but maybe this just didn’t come across the right way. Apologies to anyone who was put off–again, it was not my intention to poke fun.
Love the lady in pearls! Aside from her mauve polish (and the tad too-long nails on which it’s painted) she’s the ideal sexy DC sophisticate.
From the chest up, anyway.
GT April 6, 2007
1:49 pm
Don’t pay any attention Rachel. These are the same people who crucify someone for wearing Ann Taylor and then suddenly become Mother Theresa in order to get at you. While I am not certain how he fits into the theme of the blog, I certainly understand that you were not mocking him. In fact, I find it more insulting that they assume the guys is mental or homeless because of his adventurous attire.
I highly doubt this man is homeless — when was the last time you saw a clean, color-coordinated, moisturized, shopping-cart-free homeless person with bus-fare?
Also it could just be the angle he’s sitting at that makes him look “a little touched in the head.” Rachel was there, and if her first impression of this guy wasn’t that he had a mental illness, she was probably right.
Maybe I’m just an even bigger bitch than BBTY, but I laughed out loud at your description. In my book, no one except children with terminal illnesses, refugees and family members are off-limits to tongue-and-cheek vitriole.
I disagree with Erin. I think he looks like a Model-T chauffeur from the 20s. All he needs to complete the look is a white scarf, driving goggles, waxed moustaches and a pair of knickers. “Haw haw, old boy!”
Kiki April 6, 2007
2:40 pm
I’m going to have to disagree with Yoder. I’d like to Filene his basement.
e April 6, 2007
2:55 pm
I work up the street and see him everyday. He is a little touched, and loves that hat. I’ve tried to speak but never gotten a response. Maybe someone knows his name as something other than “character”?
I agree with the first comments, but also with the response. It’s a fine line to comment on humanity’s pain and suffering in the context of a “style” blog. It’s obvious this wasn’t your intention, but maybe try to frame it in more positive language next time. Love the site tho.
Dailey April 6, 2007
4:24 pm
He looks like a starving orphan from Oliver Twist. Why is he frowning? Didn’t score any cash pickpocketing on the metro?
“Please sir, my I have some more?”
Cat O April 6, 2007
4:35 pm
I think he looks like one of those stereotypical self deprecating jerks who can’t even bother to smile for a picture. What is with that?
He was actually my neighbor for 3 years, so no, he’s not homeless. He lives alone in a rowhouse just around the corner from this picture. I know he talks to some people in the neighborhood, but my “hellos” were never returned. And he has many more hats.
Sam Anders April 6, 2007
9:21 pm
If you have a chance, head over to the Eastern Market on Capitol Hill during the weekends. Caitlin, the artist, sells her purses and pins there on both days. They’re *really* nice – the pics don’t do justice to the level of craftsmanship or the selection of fabrics used in the purses. It’s unfortunate, because there are a lot of people doing ‘cash-in’ knockoffs of vintage projects like these, but Caitlin is the real deal. Check her out!
Don’t forget the flat front vs. pleated devide, which some say is more entrenched than pro/anti the troop surge.
LJG April 7, 2007
2:41 pm
Lets hope the flat fronts are leading the way.
Sarde April 7, 2007
3:07 pm
I have to say that I honestly think some people are over-analyzing the pictures and simply don’t understand what’s going on. I do admit that to the average person Howard students dress a little over the edge, but you have to understand that most of us are at the point in our lives where it is okay to express our individuality. A lot of us come from private high schools where uniforms were required so the only time we really had the chance to get dressed was on the weekends. And since we have yet to enter the corporate world, what better time then now do we have to explore and experiment with style. Oh and by the way, as much as I like Gwen, please believe that we have two totally different styles. Actually, my hair has been this color for three years and it was dyed for the simple purpose of prom…not to imitate the certian look of someone famous…TRUST. Other than that, I think that people need to be a little more open-minded and realize that we’re just having fun and living a little.
I hate when girls think they have to do that dumb beauty contestant pose with one knee bent.
rachel April 9, 2007
2:42 pm
Mrahhhhh, damn. Fixed. Thanks Rob.
Zach April 9, 2007
9:59 pm
Not so much. This suit does not fit properly. The pants are too long. If a man wears narrow pants, he should not have a break in the pants. He has an enormous break. And his sleeves are way too long. There is absolutely no cuff showing, which is quite a faux pas. Not to mention that a “proper suit” should be accompanied by a tie, not a white t-shirt poking through at the neck.
Zach makes all good points, but the real point here is that this guy does stand out from pretty much every other guy downtown in a suit because he is doing a lot right here.
The pants aren’t really “narrow,” they’re just not horribly baggy or wide like most, so I don’t think the break is as much at play here.
A few things to tweak, but he looks a hell of a lot better than a lot of guys.
Are they from, like “Fresno”? Ugh. that outfit was hip in CA about 20 years ago. You know I bet that is VINTAGE from their mother’s madonna years! OH YEAH VINTAGE. Clearly they also have a whole collection of little backpack purses they’ll bring up next.
And really PB, even Close UP is way beneath EVEN your poor taste.
This project reminds me very much so of Barbara Krueger’s work. If you don’t know who that is, do yourself a favor and google her. I’ll do you one better here’s a gallery page ( http://www.barbarakruger.com/art.shtml ). Check it out. She is one of the most important American Artist of the 20th century.
Though these pins and bags aren’t on the same leave of conception as Barbara Kruegers work they are still important.
Eh, this is okay. To be honest, she looks like every makeup-free, granola trustfunder I went to college with.
Don’t know about her thighs (can’t make them out in her baggy shorts) but her calves have potential. Get a few more runs in – and trade those Reefs for some heels – and she’ll be minidress ready by June.
Jackie April 10, 2007
2:04 pm
Bigger Bitch than you: Your comments are lame. Good for her for deleting some…her readers just became smarter as a result.
If you have nothing intelligent to contribute to the public domain, please – for the rest of us – stay quiet.
If you need something to do to fill the lonely hours … check it out:
The Majestic Restaurant in Old Town is re-opening soon under the direction of the Restaurant Eve Team.
We are seeking Host staff and Servers!
If you are Hip, Friendly, Focused and Decent- come and apply!
experience is not a must, we will train you.
We DO hire for personality!- the ‘Sunnier’ the better!
Don’t worry sweetheart, they can probably bend the rules for you on the last one …
My sister and I of Follow Fashion, Inc. are hosting a designer sample sale in Georgetown April 28-29, 2007. The clothes are all 30-70% off retail. Some name brands are BCBG, J Brand, Ella Moss, T-Bags, C&C California, Alvin Valley, Tory Burch, Juicy Couture, Sweetees, James Perse, Joie, Rich Chix, Norma Kamali, Development, Alice+Olivia, Rachel Pally, Marc Jacobs, Laundry by Shelley Segal, Plenty by Tracy Reese, and so much more! Visit us at http://www.followfashioninc.com I would also love for you and your friends to attend! It is sure to be a fabulous event to begin Spring and Summer!
Where: 1614 Wisconsin Ave., NW (Georgetown) Washington, DC
When: April 28-29, 2007 10AM-6PM
Rich April 10, 2007
4:36 pm
Hmmm. Too underdressed to have a job, yet not scruffy enough to be homeless. I’m perplexed.
We need a silent movie theater that serves chili. That’d be a smash!
Charlotte April 10, 2007
7:27 pm
I think the outfit is perfect for her frame. You could call this proportion III. Her pants are great and the small bag is even better. I love big bags but on petite women they look like overnight bags!
holiday April 11, 2007
9:50 am
This girl is really cute. I think the key to professional clothing is looking modern, urban and unfussy. It’s so important to have tailored clothes that fit you well. There wrong with wearing something predictable like a pencil skirt and heels as long as you can find a way to make it interesting or individualistic. I probably own around 12 pencil skirts in different colors that I wear all of the time. My one comment is that I think her jacket is a bit small, because it puckers under her chest. Otherwise I love the overall look and her leopard print heels.
You took the words right out of my mouth, Holiday — the jacket is *too tight* and makes this tiny size 2 look like she has a tire around her waist. The skirt also looks a bit stretched across her mid-section, but that could just be wrinkle-age from sitting down, I suppose.
I love mixing up the brown palette like this young lady did, but I try to keep the hues as distinct as possible. Instead of pairing a bright white jacket and purse with an ivory turtleneck, I would have gone for more contrast by swapping one of the three – preferably the jacket – for something chocolate brown that would have picked up the trim on her shoes. White against ivory just never looked right to me, but that could just be my own taste, not a right-or-wrong thing.
At the end of the day, I’m pleased as punch to see a woman who chose not to wear a suit in these parts. I own three, but I don’t think I’ve ever worn the jacket and the trousers/skirt in the same outfit. It’s so much more fun and imaginative to mix it up, and it makes me happy to see others do the same.
DCD April 11, 2007
12:48 pm
Ok, here’s an internal debate I’m having, completely unrelated to this post (sorry). I’ve become enamored with the new matchstick skinny jeans. I decided to hold off on buying them until I someone who looks like myself in them, (5 feet, with some hips to boot). Do these jeans only look good on the tall rail-thin girls or is there hope for me too?
holiday April 11, 2007
1:06 pm
The last time I was in Brooklyn visiting a friend, I’m pretty sure almost every woman was wearing skinny jeans–tall, short, skinny, curvy. In fact my friend told me that when she sees a woman wearing bootcut pants, she knows that they just moved to NYC Anyways, the point I would like to make is that if they flatter you, go for it. If not, just take a pass. You shouldn’t be a slave to fashion. Plus, if you wanted to be cutting edge, you would get a pair of those new wide legged jeans that I keep seeing Kate Moss wear.
To piggyback onto what Holiday wrote, I think unless you have a really disproportionate hips-to-waist ratio or you’re just really untoned (we can see it even through denim), you can rock the skinny jeans successfully. As big a fan as I am of the new Katherine Hepburn-esque wide-legged silhouette, I just think the skinnies are much more practical — they go well with everything from flats to heels to tall boots. *So* worth the investment. I’d get a black pair, too.
rachel April 11, 2007
2:18 pm
All–
Great comments. See the new post I just did on skinny jeans. Anyone have favorite brands, especially curve-friendly ones?
C April 11, 2007
2:38 pm
I’m pretty small (5′2″ and 115 lbs) but curvy, and I would never wear skinny jeans. Even straight-legged jeans (the kind that aren’t flared but also not skin-tight like these) make my hips and thighs look enormous, so I can’t even imagine what skinnys would do.
Also, I’ve seen a lot of people who simply do not look good in those jeans. After all, one style can’t flatter every body type, and that’s why you need to pick and choose from the trends that are out there. Grab a wrap dress instead– it will hug your delicious curves in all the right places and look fantastic!
C April 11, 2007
2:48 pm
Another thing to keep in mind is that skinny jeans emphasize the feet as well as the hips/thighs/rear. So unless you have small or slender feet and don’t mind wearing delicate shoes like narrow flats or stilettos, you end up looking like a clown (I think the guy above is sorta suffering from that).
DCD April 11, 2007
2:54 pm
Talk about an interactive website – thanks for the post Rachel! I think I will head over to Denim Bar. I could use some some new jeans anyway – whatever silhouette I end up choosing!
i’m 5′2 and 100 lbs and i LOVE skinny jeans. check screaming denim on 18th street for genetic denim. i bought their “denim leggings” a little while ago. they look like jeans but act like leggings. expensive but totally worth it. also, check out mustard seed in bethesda. they carry indigo six denim in a variety of colors and cuts and they are so cheap and perfect.
anon April 11, 2007
3:10 pm
i’m 5′2 and 100 lbs and i LOVE skinny jeans. check screaming denim on 18th street for genetic denim. i bought their “denim leggings” a little while ago. they look like jeans but act like leggings. expensive but totally worth it. also, check out mustard seed in bethesda. they carry indigo six denim in a variety of colors and cuts and they are so cheap and perfect.
holiday April 11, 2007
3:47 pm
I wear Paige Blue Heights jeans. I know tons of people like them. You should definitely check out shopbop.com, because they are having a rare promotional offer right now. Plus there is free shipping and no tax. All bonuses.
shopbop code
use code TAXBREAK2007
spend $100, get $20 off ($50 off $250, $100 off $500)
I’m a Joe’s Jeans girl, too. I have a pair of the Rockers and two of the ultra-skinny Chelseas (one in black and one in plain blue). If you order online, beware that they tend to run a size big. If you’re a 4, order a 26, not a 27. You can find them all at: http://www.revolveclothing.com
I like Joe’s not only because they fit me best (I’ve tried EVERYTHING), but also because, as far as premium denim goes, at $160-ish, they’re pretty darn reasonable. And if you catch an online sale, you can get an even better deal. For my black Chelseas, I paid $71.90 on Bop’s final markdown this past January. More than 50% off – not bad.
Oh and guys, unless you’re a British rocker or an art student, leave the skinny jeans to the ladies. That poor man (and his poor junk) in the picture – I just want to run up the block to my apartment and fetch for him my wide-leg Georgetown sweatpants!
Thumbs up for her, thumbs down for him — he looks like he’s in bicycle pants.
Linds April 11, 2007
8:58 pm
i happen to loooove guys in tight pants. and i dig the brown version (i have the black ones)! I own two pairs of cheap monday, the best thing about them being how high waisted they are (not like to your pits or anything). i happen to think that tight pants are a mindset and not just a style of jeans. if you feel good in them, that’s the most important part. it may not be your thing and thats fine, too. if you are looking for cheap monday, you can find them at the new barney’s co-op in georgetown or at denim bar. the less-stretchy CM denim is about a size up from what you usually wear, depending on how TIGHT you want those shiz. Also, try ACNE jeans (denim bar) if cheap monday is too tight. they are a good compromise i feel but much more $$$. (for the opposite effect, try some dark denim high wasted sailor pants! boing!)
rachel April 11, 2007
11:20 pm
I just got back home (it’s 11:15 PM) from Denim Bar in Arlington (well, after drinks and dinner too).
Looks like everyone’s comments mean that my DCist post this Friday on Denim Bar is right on time.
p.s. I tried on some skinnies. And they looked hott.
cindy April 12, 2007
9:05 am
i’m 5′ and 110 lbs and i love my skinny jeans. i also wear a size 6 shoe, so i don’t look clownish. i SWEAR by j brand! i have 3 pairs. the cropped skinnies (29″ inseam) are perfect for shorter girls like me.
Lilly April 12, 2007
1:36 pm
I thought that this store opened like a year ago.
Caroline April 12, 2007
1:45 pm
Once I was hanging out with my two cousins and my sister, and one of the cousins was assigning us to neighborhoods based on our outfits:
My sister: Georgetown (professional looking pumps, nice pants, classy pea coat)
Me: U Street (jeans with a wide belt, cropped army jacket over a rhinestone-embellished wifebeater, big hoop earrings and a black newsboy cap)
Her: Dupont Circle (skinny jeans tucked into kneehigh boots and a fitted black jacket with fur collar)
And my other cousin: NoVA (sneakers, workout pants, and some kinda coat… poor thing….)
I don’t live in U Street but I was thrilled to get assigned to it.
rachel April 12, 2007
1:56 pm
Lilly–
Turns out they have been open for a few months–shows how little I get out to Tysons. The clothes are great though (well they fit me to a T at least), for anyone who hasn’t discovered them yet. So to clarify, the party was for their Spring/Summer collection.
I just can’t find it in myself to give this trend a try. Transparent anything – bangles, shoes, bags – looks either stripper-ish or something you’d get at Limited Too.
That necklace is definitely more attractive than a block heel made of Lucite, but still, for $190, I’d prefer to get something I won’t be embarrassed to wear a season from now. Half a DVF wrapdress, for example
The way she’s wearing that scarf makes me wonder if she’s got a voice box in her purse. Shoot, she doesn’t have a purse, does she? Well, you know what I mean.
Sorry, Rachel, I love your site and your high-res photos, but the only attractive thing in this picture, in my opinion, are the filets off to her left.
holiday April 13, 2007
2:52 pm
I have to agree with Johanna. The low-rise jeans, the bandanna, the plain v-neck tee with midriff, the oxfords with no socks is just a mishmash of bad East Village trends.
augiluv April 14, 2007
3:01 pm
ummm first of all yall lil hoes don’t hate kuz we know were bomb o yea you tricks probaly can’t even afford the close up trip and hollister broke tramps lol Fresno no i don’t think so long beach is more like right o yea dumb beauty type pose you just hatin because we look better than your ugly out of date selves and our bags might just cost more than your whole outfit can you say roxy so while you little haters are bumpin your gums just sit back and post and watch the pretty girls work
The men at Howard actually have a better sense of style than the women at Howard! And that’s somehow refreshing. Jaja likey!
xxxkidflashxxx April 15, 2007
12:04 am
man yall look pretty hott augastine and i think ashley man dont trip off haters juss do u and leave the drama behind u.
whoever these chixx r say’n that ur not hott and ur clothes r out of date man them weak ass chixx r not worht the breath keep doin yall thing repp’n the beach
oh Flirts ^
I don’t mind the individual pieces, but taken together…I’m at a loss. Wearing an uh-uh-no-you-didn’t Delia’s-style tee, a cropped satin jacket and peppering your outfit with estate-sale accessories — it’s not ironic, it’s just silly looking.
The hat might be chic with a seersucker dress at a horse race or with a fitted pantsuit at a royal wedding, but not in NW DC in the middle of the day for no special occasion.
CLF April 18, 2007
5:45 pm
well before i knew its name, the Eleanor was my first queen bee purchase many years ago (2002 i think? and yes, wholesale) maybe the stones were more narrow and less shiny. I’m more of a solitaire d on a thin chain gal, but this necklace gives an all black or solid color outfit a stylish dose of undertoned flare.
Love the stripper-ish comment (an aspiration indeed) but I’ve actually received hundreds of compliments on it through the years from older stri…i mean socialites around town. It’s very heavy and cut to sparkle.
LIKE WHAT THE FUCK DO THEY GOT ON THEY LOOK BUSTED ASS FUCK WHO BENDS THEIR THEIR KNEES LOOK LIKE THEIR ON CRACK…THEM OUTFITS LOOK LIKE LIKE FROM THE 60′S AND MOSTLY THE GURL IN BLUE HER PANTS IZ ALL WRECKLED AND HER CHUCKS LOOKS DIRTY ASS HELL WITH THEM BIG ASS SHOE LACES AND THAT JACKET/SHIRT LOOK LIKE ITS HER LITTLE SISTER’S AND THE GURL WITH THE RED YOU NEED 2 DYE YO WHOLE HEAD NOT HALF OF IT CUZ SHE LOOK A HOT MESS AND HUMPS DONT LOOK RIGHT ON HER
Did you attend the WHCA gala? If so, what were your fashion impressions? I only commented on Petra and Morgan Fairchild’s hot messes, but were there any successes?
i think i know what your christmas card is going to be this year…in fact, MY christmas card might be that picture of you and tim gunn!
TOM H April 24, 2007
3:06 pm
Rachel is that you?? Your a very attractive young lady…….a real cutie….I just hope you had fun at the dinner because I am sure there were a lot BORING people there……..
Cleavage at events like this (and weddings) I just find wholly inappropriate. Even though I wrote a detailed blog posting on why I didn’t like her empire-waisted nightgown, Petra at least scored points by achieving the classy/sexy balance with a low-cut neckline, bare shoulders and open back without a hint of boob-age. Well played, Nemcova.
The red dress on the blonde woman is okay (at least it fits well), but again, I just feel that certain events deserve a certain *kind* of dress — in this case, a gown. Cocktail dresses are for book launches and corporate parties, not black-tie events where the President is in attendance.
I would have been mortified were I that woman in the lacy peach bustier-style slipdress. She violates rule #2: keep your audience in mind when choosing your ensemble.
And that other woman with the black floor-length black pouf skirt and white bell-sleeved button up…um, yeah, I’m not even gonna touch that one…
Cute pic of you and “make it work,” Rachel!
Missy April 24, 2007
11:12 pm
Hi Rach -the woman on the left is Georgette Mosbacher -founder of la prarie. I think she’s currently the head of Borghese. My mother’s idol….
Jesse is awesome, and his work is just as cool as he is. Jesse, if you’re reading this, don’t forget I want one of those sword and safety pin necklaces, I’m still kicking myself for not buying it at STYLEistics.
Thanks for the awesome coverage!! I am so bummed I missed it. Stylistics 2.0 anyone?
Nellie April 29, 2007
4:18 pm
Hooray for Vedika and Renee!
I’m very impressed, as usual.
Christoph Berendes April 30, 2007
1:15 pm
Thanks. It made me smile and cry. I love the Market.
DCD April 30, 2007
1:51 pm
And I have to say I bought a pair too, thanks to everyone’s input.
marie long April 30, 2007
2:37 pm
I would like to say that when I woke up this morning and heard about the fire at Eastern MArket, I thought that it was a dream, but I am really hurt over this. I have shopped at the market for the longest time. and I have worked with the flower vendor on the inside of the market. ANd also at the MArket Five gallery.I jumped up this moring before work to go and see if it was true or not. and I was shocked at all the damage that was done. But with prayers and community help , we will build the Eastern MArket back up.
F
Tim Page April 30, 2007
7:34 pm
Thank you for the lovely pictures of Eastern Market, in the neighborhood where I lived for three very happy years. I hope this wonderful place can be rebuilt yet maintain its sweetness and funky warmth. My heart goes out to the vendors and the lunch stand which fed me so many times.
Loved the Oriental dress by Renee which incorporated both design with candy. The show was so unique and professional at the same time. My sweet tooth definitely got aroused. A wonderful job done by all, cannot wait for another show.
Dominic May 1, 2007
8:42 am
This is a shame. The Eastern Market was one of the few things I really enjoyed about DC. If anyone knows how we can help rebuild or support the efforts please post any info.
I work with this girl! She’s one of the hostesses at Saint-Ex and always looks ridiculously cute.
Jules May 1, 2007
2:35 pm
The girls are cute — but the guys kind of look like douchebags. Love that melon and white wrap dress on blondie.
TOM H May 1, 2007
3:28 pm
Jules you are right the girls are very cute and love the short hemlines…….
lindsay May 2, 2007
10:00 am
i definitely saw those guys at the wrens concert in georgetown on saturday night. I thought the guy in the back was very cute but I assumed they must be georgetown students, so too young.
C May 2, 2007
10:36 am
I adore the look of loose or strappy tops layered over a racerback. It’s a tricky look to pull off because it’s hard to find two things that look right when layered over one another, but this girl has inspired me to revisit my closet and do some more experimenting with this. It adds an interesting element to an outfit that would otherwise be cute but mundane.
martyz May 2, 2007
11:07 am
I’m shocked and saddened to hear they’re NOT a band…and I was gonna buy tickets to go see them!
I see prints are IN, and I hope that trend will stick around for a while!
ann May 3, 2007
9:44 am
UGH Mandles. I wonder if these are actually wearable! Seems like liquor sloshing around in the sole of your flip-flop might make it go flying off at inopportune times…like when one of your brothers is hardcore hitting on your sraty girlfriend!
Scott May 3, 2007
1:32 pm
Wow. Who comes up with these things? Makes me think my toilet that keeps score IS a good idea.
GT May 3, 2007
10:53 pm
Girls look good. A few of them need to consult a colorist and at least one deserves an eyebrow intervention but overall cute outfits…guys hurt me- deeply, madly, painfully. Bad, Bad, fashion!
Dominic May 4, 2007
9:20 am
I know living here in the Hamas the Reef Flop with the beer key on the sole is very popular with Locals and Tourist. I can only image how many of this style flip-flop I’ll see on the pink sand beaches.
Ann May 4, 2007
9:34 am
I LOVE this necklace. I have a necklace that is similar to this one but i think it is made from a kind of metalic ribbon that is wrapped to form large chain links. I get a LOT of compliments on it, and strangley enough, people always come up and talk to me about it when i wear it out! It’s a great wingman!
gisforgiraffe May 4, 2007
4:50 pm
“Flip-flops” are for the beach, not everyday wear.
Scott May 4, 2007
5:49 pm
Polo helmet and mallets. By Ralph Lauren of course.
rachel May 4, 2007
6:23 pm
ahhhhhhhhhh…polo…croquet…whatever!
A May 7, 2007
12:36 am
I see this woman quite a bit as we work in the same industry. She always looks stylish, but yet still professional and appropriate for her position.
Erin May 7, 2007
11:45 am
GREAT post!!!
holiday May 7, 2007
6:34 pm
Is that guy Taylor wearing the tag on his pants? I saw some pretty ridiculous hats and outfits at the Gold Cup. I must have seen a million girls in the same JCrew, Ann Taylor and Banana Republic dresses. Definitely a good time though.
There’s something about a man biting down hard on a fat cigar that I find refined and sexy!
zac May 9, 2007
12:33 pm
Terrible the first time you posted, terrible now. At least he is consistent.
zac May 9, 2007
12:38 pm
Toot. Toot. Project Beltway Express! “Next stop is the Vaseline Convention.” Thanks for showing us what it looks like to get dressed in the dark and then attend a KY Wrestlemania. Zexy and Greazy.
pose'n May 10, 2007
2:02 am
Hey Zac–
Frankie say RELAX.
rdhd May 10, 2007
8:55 am
Yay, they put on old 80s clothes. Or a hat. Or…what’s the latest cool-uncool thing to wear? What exactly is “post post ironic dressing” anyway? Putting on a costume. There are perhaps two women there that look stylish. Maybe only one. And the guys look ridiculous. Especially that first guy.
There’s as much “style” here as in the Gold Cup shots,the “R is for Rad” shot and the most recent preppy-girls-in-G’town shot. It’s the same thing over and over. Blah.
holiday May 10, 2007
3:40 pm
Fabulous indeed. I wish my legs were that long. I wonder what Johanna thinks. She is a big fan of short shorts.
holiday May 10, 2007
3:45 pm
I love the outfit in the middle and how she wore it with an anorak type jacket. The blonde is also really cute and casual. I need to pick up some more casual summer dresses.
I love the look (the look on the left, that is), but I must say, I think it’s a bit “much” for daytime in Georgetown. She looks amazing, no argument there, and if anyone can pull off the Johnson silk Millicent shorts, it’s this woman, however, I tend to reserve the short- shorts-and-heels ensemble for either NYC or DC after hours. In a part of town where the majority of people are college kids’ parents and couples in their 40s to 60s, this look just seems a bit out of place.
But who knows, if I had mile-long stems like she has, perhaps I’d rock the short shorts and heels 24/7, too.
That’s what’s wrong and boring about you Washingtonians. Too many rules. -”Dont wear shorts shorter than 13 inches before 5:26 p.m. or after Monday or in between Tuesay and Friday…”– Yada Yada, Nag Nag, Pick Pick. Jackie looks gorgeous and her shoes are not ill-fitted, vulgar or showcasing her anatomy. There is only one rule in fashion: No rules!
I love the creative and adventurous way the Japanese approach fashion. But this pic is so funny because the ladies’ facial expression are so contrasting! One looks thrilled to be shot, the other could not care less!
Oh..FIRST!!!
TOM H May 11, 2007
4:39 pm
wow totally love the look…..looks very
comfortable……also great lookin gal…..
have fun in Sonoma Rachel……
By your logic, Jaja, a woman should wear short shorts and heels to a wedding, to a graduation, to the Met, etc., and feel justified in doing so simply because she’s got the legs for it. No rules? Come on now.
I’m all for “if you’ve got it, flaunt it,” but a classy woman knows the when, where and how before she leaves her front door.
And for the record, I never said – or even implied – this woman looked vulgar or was wearing anything ill-fitting. I simply said I thought shorts with a one-inch inseam (which, I’m sorry, *do* go out of their way to showcase her legs, gorgeous as they may be) PLUS 4-inches of added-height seemed a bit much for the middle of the day in a fairly conservative part of town.
Joanne, alias Ted May 14, 2007
9:35 am
He sounds totally outrageous and real. I would buy shoes from this dude, he rocks.
Dankins May 14, 2007
12:57 pm
Pussy Wussy
Amy McPike May 14, 2007
2:09 pm
Loved Afternoon Debright, but her boyfriend could spiff up more than a little. Now what about all those fabulous moms in DC for their day?
hotgrl88 May 14, 2007
2:43 pm
****~~r u kidding? i luv that guy’s style, its so cute;)
… its totally an eastern youth tee… slamin style + awesome taste in music! didn’t kno there were peeps like that in gtown lol!
gunnerblu May 14, 2007
4:47 pm
so disagree on her. orange dress, black bra and white shoes. yeeeek! did she not look in a mirror. sugar rachel, you’re testing us with this one. surely! lol
These are, hands-down, my favorite shoes ever. I don’t know why more people aren’t hip to this brand – the shoes are HOT, they’re well-priced (for that category) and ten times more original than the competition.
Buy them, ladies. In multiples!
holiday May 14, 2007
6:16 pm
hotgrl88-That’s because Rachel is in San Francisco.
I’ve definitely brought out some of my linen shift dresses, but I would definitely agree that is not the best example.
carla May 14, 2007
6:32 pm
My favorite shoes.I love your shoes. did I say my favorite shoes?
Carla
i did it. May 14, 2007
8:35 pm
I’ll take responsibility for that hair giving the shirt a run for it’s money. thank you.
holiday May 15, 2007
9:27 am
I am a complete DvF addict. However, I always wonder if people in other cities wear their DvF wraps sans camisoles. I read the New Yorker profile on Diane vonFurstenberg where she said how much she hated the camisole underneath. I’ve tried to wear mine without one, but always have issues.
At any rate, thanks to Washingtonienne and countless other women, I think the DvF wrap or wrap dresses in general are a working women’s staple in DC.
TOM H May 15, 2007
10:57 am
definately love the look….very cool lookin……….
rachel May 15, 2007
11:10 am
Holiday–
Yeah, I don’t love them with camisoles underneath either. I think the key is a good bra (I have one that’s more push-uppy and padded than I typically wear, and I noticed that it doesn’t cause the ‘issues’ when i wear it with wrap dresses), good posture and a sense of confidence.
Go to Alicia at Imperial Valet (just up the street from where this pic was taken) and have her sew up the bustline to just above where your cleavage starts. I’ve had this done to all four of my precious DVFs, and thank god, because I tend not to notice when the girls decide to come out and play without permission.
holiday May 15, 2007
4:06 pm
The issue is more that I get major cleave and my bra also comes out. What do you mean by sew it up at the bustline? How do I get in/out of it?
Unfortunately, my wrapdresses are techinically no longer “wrap” dresses because I have to slip them on over my head. What I mean by “sewn up at the bustline” is having the V sewn together, so that even if your cleavage wants to pop out, it can’t.
I was hesitant at first, because part of the joy of wearing a wrapdress is being able to slip it on without messing up your hair, but now Alicia is the first person I visit after that Saks box comes in the mail. Apparently it’s a pretty common request, at least according to her.
rachel May 15, 2007
5:07 pm
Great idea!!
TOM H May 15, 2007
5:31 pm
Jo you are the best……..
zac May 15, 2007
9:48 pm
DVF is certainly not daring but this look takes it to a new level of boring. Great staple for work etc. but the camisole is cruel and unusual punishment…
The beauty of a perfect-fit DVF is that without showing gratuitous amounts of skin, you can walk into any room and slackjaw the entire male population. The way that silk jersey drapes *just right* over a woman’s contours — it’s so sexy it shouldn’t be allowed in the office. But it is, so those of us who know how great they are wear them and feel like we’re getting away with something.
Susan Sherwin May 15, 2007
11:25 pm
They are bound to succeed! What talent!
TOM H May 16, 2007
11:28 am
I think very simple but classy…she brings it all together…..also love the sunglasses…
very attractive lady…….
Crazy Town May 16, 2007
1:01 pm
Awesome post! Can’t wait to see what you have to see about the Democrats in their next debate… I think just like they’re beating the GOP in the money race, most of them are looking a bit snazzier this time around, too.
C May 16, 2007
2:32 pm
Oh come on, you don’t need to hire someone to sew it up. It only takes a few stitches in the right spot. If you can sew on buttons you can do this. I’ve done it to every wrap shirt and dress I own, and I’m no seamstress.
(BTW what does DVF stand for?)
rachel May 16, 2007
3:33 pm
C–
Sorry ’bout that; Washington has enough acronyms as it is. It stands for Diane von Furstenberg: http://dvf.com/
Furstenberg is best known in the fashion world for introducing the wrap dress in 1973 and they continue to be sought-after staples…
Even if I knew how to sew on a button – which I don’t – I still don’t think I’d trust myself to perform this surgery on a DVF. If I’m going to invest in a dress of this high-quality, I want it done *perfectly*. And $12 on top of $350+ is really not that big of a deal.
I *heart* GOP May 16, 2007
5:42 pm
Hunter is wearing the EXACT same tie and suit (?) today.
Great post Rachel!
holiday May 16, 2007
6:17 pm
Did I miss the commentary on the Democratic debates? It’s hard for me to judge Republican fashion objectively.
Noelle May 17, 2007
10:40 am
Although she’s very pretty and looks nice and appropriate for an office environment, I think this outfit is really boring. I agree with your suggestion that she spice it up with a punch of color.
I have to disagree with you regarding the “pointy black pump” as a wardrobe staple. The pointy shoes are a trend that’s on its way out. I think a rounded toe pump is the new wardrobe staple. Something a la Christian Louboutin.
Matt "not hip popping" Dornic May 17, 2007
3:45 pm
Thanks for the kind words Rachel. To all of my so called “friends” who have felt the need to comment on my alleged hip pop, I would like to invite you to look again. I am sensibly leaning against a wall, not doing a bow-legged hip pop. A word of advice for future subjects of PB…don’t lean against a wall for your photo and don’t attempt the hip pop- clearly you will get mocked.
I’m with Noelle on this one, but not because pointy-toeds are on their way out — I just don’t think they’re all that attractive. Very severe and as I’ve said on here before, difficult to keep from looking stubbed and shabby.
Plus, as my pedicurist told me, the more you wear pointy shoes, the more your feet will start to *permanently* resemble pencil tips. Yick.
Viva la peeptoe!
Brooke May 17, 2007
4:41 pm
The purpose of your blog is to prove that Washingtonians have a sense of style, correct? Your blog is actually having the opposite effect on me. I understand a girl has got to make a buck, but before you post your next shameless promotion, people reword your mission statement.
Brooke May 17, 2007
4:53 pm
Please replace “people” with “please” when you read that last comment! Thanks!
S May 17, 2007
4:53 pm
I really enjoy your blog but I am finding the promotion of Tina Alster and her wannabees hard to stomach. Alster to dermatology is what Andre Chretzy is to hair ..both are WAY overrated and got lucky with Washington magazines.
MD May 17, 2007
5:22 pm
Brooke-
Since you aren’t aware of the financials surrounding PB, I would advise reconsidering uneducated criticisms. I am not “in the know” about PB’s biz model but did you ever consider that maybe, just maybe the author likes the designer or store and thought she might inform her readers about a good find or neat store without financial gratification????
s May 17, 2007
5:33 pm
I don’t think PB is getting any financial compensation or in-kind Catherine Rapetti bag. If so- who cares and good for her! As a former WIDLS client I’m just not interested in supporting her or her store. Besides – if I hear “fabulous” tied to her one more time…Didn’t Kimona Simmons try the same thing?
Brooke May 17, 2007
6:05 pm
Fair enough. In an effort to educate myself, can you (Rachel) please inform us if you do or do not received financial compensation for spotlighting certain brands or stores? Thanks!
rachel May 17, 2007
6:18 pm
All-
Just to set the record straight: PB gets uhhh, NO money. Believe me, I wonder at least once a week why I do all of this for no $$. But there ain’t nothin.’ I just truly enjoy having a creative outlet for my passion for writing, Washington culture and people, and all things style. Now that I’ve started the blog, I couldn’t imagine NOT doing it. As someone with a PR background, I definitely understand that assumption; however, I’m a little bummed that people are so jaded. This is not to say that I wouldn’t ever think of advertising, but PB no…doesn’t get paid. Sigh.
In my opinion, Tina, Liberty, and Apres Peau deserve the attention they’re getting. We’ll just have to disagree on that. But I think it’s a shame to trash someone who is successful, smart & interesting.
Um, and I assume you mean Andre Chreky.
s May 17, 2007
7:17 pm
I just think she’s overrated – I’ve seen her and Andre that’s why I put them in the same camp. As for the store, I like it.
I agree with Jaja on this one. A girl with calves that size should know to not to wear a hem that hits below the knee. Or even *at* the knee.
Part of being a stylish woman is to be aware of one’s body – its strengths and weaknesses – and knowing how best to highlight the former and downplay the latter.
And there was no “perception” involved in Jaja’s comment — her calves are without question gi-normous.
emme May 22, 2007
12:52 am
Johanna & Jaja, listen to yourselves! Not only are you obnoxious, you don’t even realize that you are when someone points it out. I find your constant stream of fashion-magazine-wannabee comments trite and preachy.
S May 22, 2007
9:18 am
Girls like jaja and johanna tear others down to make themselves feel better. Classic
alison May 22, 2007
9:27 am
playing up the strengths of one’s body is certainly part of fashion. yet even if you have a strong opinion about the size of a woman’s calves (or hips, or ass, or anything), i’d certainly appreciate it if you kept it to yourself. posting negative comments about a woman’s body in such a public forum — in any forum, really — is destructive and unnecessary.
MD May 22, 2007
10:40 am
Sorry but body type is a reality..if you don’t like it, perhaps you shouldn’t read fashion blogs. “Gi-normous” may not have been the most sensitive approach but it’s life. It would be difficult to praise a size 16 wearing a Rosa Cha bikini because no matter how great the suit, it wouldn’t look right. The purpose of a blog is to create a venue to openly discuss topics of interest- I praise everyone for expressing their opinions. Censorship is a far more dangerous poison than negativity. That said, I think her calves are fine but that is the beauty of opinion.
MD May 22, 2007
10:49 am
Wow- Everyone looks great!! Blue pants with gold buttoned ankles are heavenly. The guy in the plaid jacket had me until I hit his footwear-A prime example of how to ruin a great outfit with the wrong shoes. Soles that size should be reserved for construction workers and hiking. If you look in your closet and Doc Marten looks back, it’s time for an intervention.
I think using the term “gi-normous” was a mistake, and I apologize for that.
But I still don’t see how what I wrote can be interpreted as “tearing down” this young woman. Pam Anderson has big breasts, Ted Kennedy has a big head, Julia Roberts has a big mouth, and this girl has big calves. It’s an objective fact, not a criticism.
And for those who think my motivations are to build myself up by hurting others, you’re mistaken. In fact, I only commented on this particular picture because I, too, have long lived with disproportionately large calves and I know through trial and error (and yes, fashion magazines, TV shows, etc.) what looks flattering and unflattering when you’re dealing with muscular lower legs.
Had I gone on to critique other, unrelated parts of her body or personality, then I can see where you would call me petty or assume I had insecurity issues, but I didn’t. All I said was that being aware of your body’s strengths and weaknesses is a critical part of getting dressed everyday. If you have big arms, try to avoid fitted sleeves, if you have bacne, forego the halter, if you’re thick in the middle, skip the high-waisted pants/skirts, etc.
love love LOVE the gold sandals in the first pic and the black wrapdress in the second to last one!
sarah May 22, 2007
1:02 pm
Well said, Rachel. And please, if you see a zaftig/plus size/fat woman around dc and you admire her style, take her picture, put it up, and make no mention of her size. That will be a nearly revolutionary act.
“If you’re going to be boring, stay at home.â€
I completely agree.
But I’m also really tiring of the whole “there are no rules to fashion” line people here (and other places) are throwing out as of late. That just *can’t* be the case. On the runway, on the dance club circuit or even on a Saturday in the East Village, yes, but there are still times and venues – work, weddings, graduations, certain restaurants, the theater, parties at the homes of more conservative dressers, etc. – when we *must* place respect for others above our desire to wear an avant garde dress cut-down-to-there, six-inch YSL Tribute pumps or heavy Amy Winehouse-like eye makeup. It’s okay to compromise your style for a night, knowing that you did so out of respect, not pressure to fit in.
It was a nice, thougtful post, Rachel, and I give you a lot of credit for writing it.
MD May 22, 2007
2:05 pm
She is cute but I am not sure what she has accomplished with this outfit. I am not saying that she can’t pull it off but it truly triggers the concept of girls dressing for girls or girls dressing for guys.
This is definitely a girl dressing for other girls because I don’t think that most guys would be impressed or comprehend the look.
Georgia May 22, 2007
3:38 pm
Love the silver sandals too!!
Angelina May 22, 2007
3:39 pm
I think her calves look fine. In fact, she’s got great ankles. I wouldn’t call her legs slender or thin, but I think that they are proportionally quite pleasing to the eye.
Which is believe puts the lie to the “objective fact” comment. Subjectively speaking, her legs are shapely. No, not thin, but yes, shapely.
jennifer May 22, 2007
4:23 pm
so are you going to show us the whole picture or what? now i’m curious.
racer girl May 22, 2007
9:45 pm
Johanna’s right. Know thy body. The shoes are ugly anyway.
Lauren May 22, 2007
9:56 pm
What? Big girls can no longer wear skirts? Her calves look proportionate to her body, and actually I’ve seen thinner girls with much uglier legs. Her a-line skirt probably looks great on her figure as it hugs at the thinnest part (waist) and flows away from the body.
CGee May 22, 2007
10:05 pm
I saw this same dress this evening at H&M. Hmmm….
Gi-normous may have I a negative connotation. But it’s already out there so I’ll move on. If you are 5′4″ and 250 pounds, you are fat, right? Meatier than a sloppy joe? It’s not PC but it’s true. Stating the obvious, if you will. Similarly, the lady in the picture has huge calves–actually the hugest I’ve seen in a long while, so I pointed that out. Big deal!
Make no mistake—In no way was I suggesting she should not wear that skirt because of her fleshy calves. I believe 200% in the freedom of fashion and wearing what makes us feel comfortable. No matter your size. I did not intend to put her or anyone down.
lh May 23, 2007
8:48 am
Do you have more pictures? I would love to see them!
JR May 23, 2007
8:49 am
Maybe she doesn’t dress for girls or guys — she looks like the type of woman who takes pride in dressing for HERSELF.
g is for giraffe May 23, 2007
9:50 am
Personalize? Like with rhinestones?
Sadly there is no way to personalize a tux. There’s only so many ways you can cut a lapel. Us guys are stuck. But something has to be said about how clean a guy looks in a tux…
GA May 23, 2007
10:02 am
Oh, that pink dress just ruined my morning. Maybe she should have worn her hair in a side ponytail to complete the 80’s Barbie flashback.
Interesting guy, this Kobold. He wasn’t there was he? Seems like the watches are excellent, and he didn’t just jump in to take advantage of the huge profit potential. Read up on him in Inc.
Adam C May 23, 2007
12:10 pm
Men in this city should never, ever , talk about fashion. Of course they would never understand or comprehend this outfit. The men are too busy either eating, or straightening their seersucker sack they’ve put their body, or adjusting their fat man, American, boring square cut dark suit with loafers. I think the women of DC should kick all us men out until we do understand this Casper and her black and white dress.
If the sleeves on the pink dress were more cap-styled like those on the Oscar de la Renta dress, I think I’d like it a lot more. It sorta looks like a t-shirt from the waist-up.
Would’ve gone for a touseled upswept ‘do like Camille’s, too.
angelina May 23, 2007
12:17 pm
I’ll say it again: I think her legs look shapely and proportionate. Moreover, adjectives like “huge”, “tiny”, “gi-normous” (which is a ridiculous word) and others, are totally an indications of one’s perspective and biases–NOT a statement of fact. A statement of fact would be stating that a quadrilateral with 4 equal sides is a square. Saying George Clooney is handsome, while it is an opinion shared by many, is not a fact. Same goes for this woman’s legs. Some of us don’t think they’re fat; others do. Neither of our opinions are based in fact. They’re simply opinions.
I’m trying to make the point that all this talk about “facts” and pseudo-apologizing for not being “PC” is irrelevant. Either you think she looks good in that skirt and shoes, or you don’t.
However, since we’re talking about elegance and “rules”, I’d also like to say that there are elegant, polite, and constructive ways of engaging in a conversation where a stranger’s appearance is at issue. And not everyone in these comments has behaved as lady-like as they want everyone else to be dressing.
angelina May 23, 2007
12:20 pm
Oh, and in response to the 250 lbs, 5′4″ example. Yeah, that person is morbidly obese. Sure that’s a fact. The woman wearing these cute shoes is nowhere near that, and opinions on the size of her calves (which are not morbidly anything) cannot be compared to this example to gain them the “fact” status you’re arguing for so strenuously. What a false analogy!
C May 23, 2007
12:42 pm
I don’t think the person commenting on the calves was implying that the girl is fat. I’m small but my legs are short and muscular, and my calves can look gigantic as well. Thus, I avoid wearing flat shoes with skirts that end a below the knee because it looks incredibly frumpy.
Heels or a shorter and slimmer skirt would improve her situation drmatically, I think. Also, I think the angle of photography is not particularly flattering here. I’d love to see the whole picture to get a better idea.
For the record, I’m not a fan of the shoes either– I still have not accepted the pointy toe trend and I hope it goes away soon!
A in the City May 23, 2007
12:52 pm
The matching eye shadow, lipstick, and toenail polish sends this risky dress way over the line. Simple, if any accessories and makeup, are a must for a dress this in-your-face.
I just want to add to my comments that when I say someone “should” or “shouldn’t” wear something, it’s completely borne out of the assumption that every woman, when she gets dressed in the morning, wants to look as figure-flattering as she can. One of my readers pointed out to me yesterday, however, that not all women place primacy on this same ideal. Some women, she told me, just want to wear certain items because they like the print or the cut and will do so regardless of the fact that it makes them look 2 sizes bigger than they really are.
Until yesterday, I honestly hadn’t even considered that perspective, but in light of it I have become more flexible in my outlook on the “rules” I set for figure-flattering personal style. On venue-appropriate, however, I’m sticking to my guns.
Sarah May 23, 2007
3:12 pm
ugh, the pink dress was heinous – no true southern lady would wear something so tacky. the madras dress in the background is equally bad – hello, it’s a black tie event. maybe it’s similar to the oscar – but oscar wins hands down…everytime.
Colour makes me smile, literally, and I love how these ladies wear their punch of colour! Especially Camilla in blue.
MD May 23, 2007
6:44 pm
Okay Adam,
I disagree completely. I understand fashion inside and out, backwards and forwards…I also understand the style of this dress but I don’t think it does anything for her or anyone else for that matter. She honestly looks like a toddler on her way to church. My point was that many “looks” that are dominating stores like CUSP, Co-Op, etc. are defintely not appealing to the untrained eye…and if the trained eye could remove itself from the current fashion hype to evaluate the look they just might find that it’s not really that cute.
MD May 23, 2007
6:46 pm
Theme or not, I cannot support anything going on in either of these pictures…tacky.
BB May 23, 2007
9:01 pm
Face it – y’all are just jealous that she’s a supermodel and none of you were featured in this fashion spread…she’s gorgeous. Period.
Cat May 24, 2007
1:40 am
The first dress with those shoes. Yikes.
rdhd May 24, 2007
10:50 am
I am very strict in my view of the tuxedo/dinner suit. It is very much meant to be what it is. There are few things worse in this world (famine, war) than a man trying to personalize his tux with some atrocious thing (colored tie, crazy shoes, ugh).
What you can do is wear your own cuff-links or a pocket watch with chain and fob showing. Little things. Very little things.
Black tie should be black tie. And tie your own tie. It’s not that hard once you’ve done it a couple times. Practice.
Of course, the best thing you can do is own rather than rent so you know it fits properly.
rdhd May 24, 2007
10:53 am
Sure you can point out his neatly folded PS, but what about those horrible shoes? Come on, take him to task for those. How tired are those square-toed black things? Ugh.
He’s also dressed, imo only, very dark for the summer. How about some fresh summer colors?
I agree, granny in the second pic is definitely working the coloured denim trend and in the IT color, mustard yellow. I most love her outfit. It’s chic, yet age-appropriate. Which reminds me of an old(er) woman I saw this weekend sporting the leggings under frayed denim miniskirt. Ughhh! And she was holding the hand of her old(er) husband. From behind—let’s just say it looked sooo wrong. That trend should be buried! And shame on that lady for wearing her teen daughter’s clothes!
What a stylish event! And everyone looks so well dressed and ready for the summer. Do you know where Yolonda Linton, the young lady in the first pic, sells her stuff? I adore those electric blue trousers with the cute gold buttons! And Katie Rost is chic as usual. Wish I could have made it—darn!
Jaja — I thought you were the one who didn’t believe in fashion rules of any sort. Are you now saying women over a certain age shouldn’t wear certain trends?
Just checking…
A.L. Talley May 24, 2007
1:02 pm
This pink cupcake look was even worse in person. And madras dress was topped off with a matching bandanna – yikes! And I think the blue dress may be slipped in from another event – definitely not taken from TOTS.
Owning a tux is an essential. Think, cost per wear. Other than ditching the clip on bow tie, I disagree with the tie/cumberbund comment. While the Texas flag is most appropriately used when flown over the capitol and not under a tuxedo, a vineyard vines can be a fun way to personalize your tux!
rachel May 24, 2007
1:16 pm
He was wearing a driving moc, and the upper features leather piping that’s rounded. The toe-box underneath that rounded part is somewhat squared off (as is the back which really is the style for this kind of shoe), but I don’t mind that really in a moc, because it makes them a bit sporty.
Now on polished leather dress shoes–yes. I tend to not like super square-toed shoes.
rdhd May 24, 2007
1:37 pm
Ah, that explains it. My crap monitor can’t show me that much detail. Still not a fan of driving mocs, anyway.
I just can’t make up my mind about this sports coat with jeans look. On the one hand, sometimes it looks good, but I’m kinda sick of seeing it. Thankfully this guy’s shirt is tucked in (I assume).
Susan Trench May 24, 2007
2:30 pm
Pardon me but who is Missy and why is she even relevant in that potato sack ensemble? Call extreme makeover!
Adam C May 24, 2007
2:38 pm
I’m not talking about this dress, this toddler costume as you put it. I’m talking about your malaise towards fashion. The basic premise of cutting up woven cloth to shield our bodies is stupid in the first place so why not have fun with it? Your assertion is that people should dress in what looks simple, obvious, and safe….boring! I love NY because a dude can walk into the subway in a brown paper sack and you love it! It looks dumb, doesn’t make sense, but at least makes you think for a second. Safe and nice are crap; take risks, make a fool out of yourself, and at least appeal to someone’s eye, trained or not.
who is Missy??? May 24, 2007
3:01 pm
Who is Missy? Um Missy Edwards is only one of Washingtonian’s 2006 10 best dressed women in DC. And that is Carlisle that she is wearing which is a classic.
rachel May 24, 2007
3:33 pm
Someone asked if there were more pictures–there are like, 2. I’m telling ya, when faced with the choice between stuffing my face with crawfish & cheese grits & ribs and taking pictures, this time I chose to mainly enjoy the party. Trying to take pictures with a drink in hand is always a challenge, so I often don’t drink at these things.
I found the dress to be more of a funny take on the party theme than anything…and I liked that she was having fun with that. How about I post my one other photo tomorrow…
I also have a fabulous picture featuring something that I know all of the guys will love & be jealous of…but a certain someone (you know who you are) is embarrassed to have his photo posted.
( ;
Aren’t y’all cuuuuurious…!!?
s May 24, 2007
5:06 pm
I saw the girl in the brown earlier in the evening and she had on a kickass trovata trenchcoat that looked smashing. Rachel – all your shots are great! I love the gals in the last picture too! The first girl is a bit too preppy for me but ok. Keep up the good work!
MD May 24, 2007
6:09 pm
Driving mocs are fantabulous. They are my uniform. I think he looks great- smart, comfy, but classy. For a flashier spin on teh driving moc, check out Tod’s new patent leather one- I just ordered mine from NM…
The first dress and the “toga” style dress are stunning. Its Vera, so they are all going to be amazing but I get cheezed out by weddings so the fresh spin on the first two are much appreciated- gorgeous and glamorous!
kathryn May 24, 2007
6:55 pm
The scariest part of the girl in madras is that she either has a tattoo on her ankle or is wearing an ankle bracelet.
Brenda May 24, 2007
7:46 pm
Tres Chic!
lh May 24, 2007
8:05 pm
and now that you brought the tatoo/anklet to attention-check out the shoes-yikes.
JC May 25, 2007
9:27 am
I’m not sure what’s so hot about the guy’s outfit. It’s very meh. The white shirt is uninspired, his jacket sleeves are too long, the coat itself should be better tailored (could be the angle, but it looks a little roomy on him) and he’s got to lose the driving mocs. They don’t work with the cuffed jeans. He needs something a little sleeker with to balance everything out. The mocs would be better suited to a pair of linen trousers.
rachel May 25, 2007
11:20 am
jennifer–
i dunno, i don’t think so. i think the mystery is far more interesting at this point. and honestly, i really just loved her shoes; the outfit wasn’t much to write how about.
i really want everyone to know that i wasn’t *just* addressing weight issues in writing this. i want people to really think past the “he should have worn this with that instead” stuff…this site is about the celebration of style, in its varied forms, here. folks, no one is going to look awesome head-to-toe (and besides, who gets to decide what “awesome head-to-toe” looks like?) all that often, especially in DC. often i’ll take someone’s photo and their outfit isn’t necessarily something i’d wear, but there’s something cool about it, about them. that’s what this is about, mostly. and i just hope that people reading will think a bit more broadly about style.
You can get that black wrap dress and order those hot blue pants right at On Lokation’s secret;-) showroom. Its 1937 14th St. NW ste 203. open thursday-saturday and by appt.
rachel May 25, 2007
12:27 pm
Thanks for checking in Kellie since I hadn’t seen the comments asking where to get everything!
Best-kept secret in Washington…!?
Silks and satins are very unforgiving fabrics, but these ladies pull it off quite wonderfully.
T-fab May 25, 2007
12:45 pm
For being “top 10 best dressed” is that a hair-tie (aka rubberband) that she is sporting on her wrist? One would think that with such a large purse on her arm, surely it could hold a rubberband? Fashion is in the details! But, new to this site, and Rachel- I think you’re fabulous.
T-fab May 25, 2007
12:51 pm
There is no way Betsey Johnson made that dress. Little Bo-Peep called, wants her pepto-bismol version returned…
billy May 25, 2007
1:16 pm
I’m actually a fan of the driving mocs with the cuffed jeans…it’s a fun mix of preppy and kind of mod jeans. And as for the jacket…I don’t think the sleeves are too long, but you can’t see his shirt sleeve so maybe that’s what’s off about it, you should always see a bit of shirt sleeve. But as for a white shirt…you can never go wrong. He looks classic. Not everyone needs to be blazing with color and bling.
Good lord people May 25, 2007
1:46 pm
T-fab:
It’s a *HAIR TIE*…whoopdeedoo! That means she has no style? Come on. You see stars with them on all of the time; really I kind of like that she didn’t feel the need to overanalyze every single thing.
Besides, this site isn’t about tearing apart every little thing people are wearing.
The best items from that second picture, in my opinion, are the two handbags. Love the Goldenbleu tote and the white oversized clutch.
The “best dressed” woman isn’t doing much at all for me. Are those matchy-matchy mocha separates, or is it a dress? I can’t tell, but I really hope it isn’t the former.
MD May 25, 2007
4:36 pm
Adam-
In no way did I imply that people should dress simple or safe-I would venture to say that I take more risks than 99% of Washingtonians and a large percentage of New Yorkers- since you don’t know me, you wouldn’t know. The point is- you can take risks and win. You could wear a paper bag and it might look hot. I just don’t think this particular look does anything for this girl (she is very pretty) and while the dress may align with current trends, it’s not a winner. In fact, had it been worn in a riskier fashion, I might like it…an oversized blue belt, a chunky lucite bracelet, gold earrings- pick your poison but as is I’m not a fan.
What do you mean by “overanalyzing?” Are we simply to say an outfit is “good” or “bad” without explaining how we came to that conclusion?
TOM H May 29, 2007
10:02 am
Gorgeous they both look great……
T-fab May 29, 2007
12:38 pm
I’m just saying… it’s a slightly drab outfit, and I would have loved to see a fabulous bracelet… I think a bold accessory would really bring it together, or at least bump it up a notch.
juleanna May 29, 2007
12:53 pm
She’s the chick that had Lily Allen play at her engagement party in April. Who cares what she’s wearing!
I just found this blog today and was very interested to come across this “debate.” I’d like to consider myself a very fashionable person and I believe that love of fashion comes from the fact that I am nearly plus-sized (a size 12-14). I learned that in order to get any respect as a bigger girl, you have to look put together much more so than others. If you’re big and sloppy, people just won’t give you the time of day.
That being said, I don’t think that I dress overly trendy because of my size. I can’t wear most of the trends right now (skinny jeans, trapeze dresses, etc.) because of my size, but there are definitely other “fashionable” things I can pull off that skinny-minnies cannot (huge, chunky jewelry, wide belts). I think that fashion should be fun and if a woman loves the way she looks in her clothes, then that should be good enough. Style is about confidence and the way your clothing exudes your personality.
T-fab May 30, 2007
3:07 pm
Rachel,
COME BACK!!! I’ve surfed the entire internet trying to find something to keep me from checking your site every 3 seconds. I need more PB!!
TOM H May 31, 2007
9:48 am
I am so glad you had a great time back home your description is breathtaking..reminds me of my summers in Michigan….ahhh to be a kid again. Glad your back safe and sound…….
Burr Datz May 31, 2007
10:09 am
Rachel!!
Wonderful photography and a lovely description of your time coming home. Always great to see you… take good care of DC!
I *still* vacation up in northern Michigan every Summer, and I agree, Rachel’s description brought back all sorts of lakeside nostalgia! Especially the drive-in — it doesn’t get more “home” than a two-movie special in your parents’ car.
I especially liked the pink ruffled swimsuit photo – God knows we all had that peek-a-boo shot at one point in our lives!
TOM H May 31, 2007
11:48 am
Actually Jo I am leaving tomorrow nite for Michigan for the weekend…..Grand Haven area…and also Spring Lake……ahh it brings back so many good memories…….Rachel again
thanks for the memories……
Corporate Flunky May 31, 2007
12:06 pm
The whole point of a tuxedo is to provide a neutral backdrop to showcase what a man’s date is wearing. With that in mind, a tuxedo should be as classic as possible: one-button, peak-lapelled (or shawl-collared if you have the moxie to pull it off), grosgrain facing preferred, jetted pockets, white shirt with pique front and turndown collar. It goes without saying that the tie should be a bow tie and tied by the wearer. That alone will set you apart from the hordes wearing three-button, notch-lapelled monstrosities with clip-on bow ties.
If you are going to an event stag and the dress code is not strict, the easiest way to personalize black tie is to switch out the black jacket to a velvet jacket in a dark color or a cream-colored, shawl-collared number.
Corporate Flunky May 31, 2007
12:15 pm
The sportscoat with dark jeans look is neither stylish nor original when done right, and in this case, it’s not even done right. It looks like Adam got home from work, took off the tie, and slapped on a pair of cuffed jeans and loafers. I agree with rdhd and JC — he would be better off with a more summery jacket and linen slacks. I would also switch the bit loafers (Gucci?) from black to brown suede and the shirt from white (too business-y) to a pattern, possibly a check.
Kathryn May 31, 2007
1:34 pm
Absolutely men hate dress-over-jeans, while women keep on doing it. I’ve pushed my bf to acknowledge that a “tunic” over jeans is usually okay, but only if you couldn’t wear it as a dress, ever. We bicker over where the top has to hit the thigh to make jeans underneath not the biggest sartorial sin possible.
We’ve gathered evidence among men. This one is a no-no. He even quotes What Not To Wear in his arguments, which is unprecedented. I don’t even know how he picked it up.
rachel May 31, 2007
1:44 pm
It seems to me that guys hate hate hate capri pants. Hence the picture.
Sooo letsee what do I not like in men’s clothing. Well, square-toed pilgrim shoes, cheap too-big suits, overly tapered or too-short jeans. I hate anything fussy or too buttoned-up looking. Tons of guys in DC have that problem–they’re so scrubbed and shaven and tan and hair-gelled that they’re no longer masculine. This is perhaps why I’m basically a sucker for stuff like a sweaty guy in Carhartt pants coming off a hard day’s work at the farm.
mm.
kathleen May 31, 2007
1:53 pm
my male bff HATES oversized sunglasses. he just gives me this look every time i put them on. when he does this, i enjoy bringing up the fact that he works socks with sandals when i first met him. it usually gets him quiet pretty quickly.
i’ve also heard a lot of complaints about cropped/capri pants. as my father says, “this isn’t the depression! can’t you afford a full pair of pants??”
another thing i hate on guys (that they seem to love): bright white sneakers, the huge k. swiss-like ones. ewwww.
Corporate Flunky May 31, 2007
2:15 pm
Ladies, please stop wearing the skimpy-blouse-and-Seven-jeans uniform to go out. If you promise to do this, we promise to stop wearing the stripey untucked shirt, bootcut jeans, and black, square-toed shoes.
C May 31, 2007
2:20 pm
Kathryn, a week or two ago I threw on an H&M shirtdress over some slim black pants and got more compliments (by men and women, but mostly men) than I ever have on an outfit, and I normally wear cute stuff. Maybe it’s because the dress was very small, which is why I was wearing it over the pants in the first place, but my point is that the dress-over-jeans thing CAN be alluring and sexy. I’m attracted to girls myself and I can’t stop staring when I see one who’s wearing a well-fitted version of that combination.
Bravo, Mr. Corporate Flunky–a point I think both men and women can agree upon! I’m so very tired of that going out uniform.
A great post, Rachel. And the funny thing is that original picture has stayed with me–I was going to come back yesterday to comment on it, as I thought it was such a perfect dress on the perfect woman for it.
Arlington VA May 31, 2007
2:26 pm
Not that these are in style anymore (thankfully), but overalls look hideous on both women and men!
rdhd May 31, 2007
2:42 pm
Oh heck, I’m full of opinion so here goes. But first, my caveats/qualifiers:
I’m a guy
On women I prefer a 40s/50s vintage sort of look or an up-to-date “smart” look. My wife pulls these off beautifully
For myself, I like to combine good colors and dress a bit dandy-ish at times.
On women I hate:
the current trend of empire-waisted shirts and dresses, enough already, how about some variety;
ill-fitting pants, be they capris or anything else;
those horrible long shorts;
But I love:
glasses;
skirts;
peep-toe shoes;
On guys I hate:
the Am-jack look (stripey shirt, square-toed black shoes, etc.);
ill-fitting suits (or worse, the pained expression of “having” to wear a suit);
the indie-rocker look;
tennis shoes w/ suit.
On both I hate:
flip-flops anywhere but at the beach or in your home;
undrewear showing;
costumes (look at my 80s shirt!);
looking too “I don’t care” or “I shop at thrift stores.” You could at least try to match;
backpacks with business wear.
And more than anything I hate women who assume they know more than me about my wardrobe and what I should wear just because they are a woman and I’m a man. They are wrong 95% of the time.
1. denim shirts – short and long sleeved
2. denim shorts – short and bermuda-length
3. braided leather belts
4. polos with company/sports team logos
5. sunglasses with nylon lanyards
6. denim shirts (sorry, once wasn’t enough)
7. cell phone holsters
8. pleated tapered cuffed khakis
9. button-down collars on dress shirts
10. really nice dress shirts untucked over jeans (blech)
But then again, I would take the fussy put-together London look (i.e. spread collar with French cuffs, half-Windsor knot, Church’s shoes etc.) over casual bbq attire ANY DAY on a man…
Noelle May 31, 2007
3:39 pm
Most guys I know (boyfriend at the time included) could not stand the whole Ugg boot trend. Girls thought they were cute and comfy, whereas guys thought they were downright dowdy.
As for guys, I totally agree with Rachel’s comment. DC guys are way too polished for my taste. Of course I want my man to look nice, but I don’t want him to take longer getting ready than I do. There’s a fine line.
Noelle May 31, 2007
3:41 pm
Love the white with the punches of citrus color, but I’m not sure about the other outfit. If you’re going to do the whole dress + jeans look, I think your jeans need to fit fitted, skinny jeans. Hers are too baggy and it makes the look seem messy. Unintentionally so, I should add.
C May 31, 2007
4:21 pm
Agree with Noelle– the jeans are too big altogether (look at how much she had to roll them up on top of them being too baggy!) and the necklace is a bit too long and too chunky for the outfit. The overall look is stylish but a little on the frumpy side. Nevertheless, she’s cute as hell and I love her sandals.
The woman on the left has a great outfit that comes together beautifully, except her shoes are too big! It’s pretty bad when you can see that from a picture. How can she walk in them?
They’re both gorgeous women with a very good sense of style, though.
How I love the slip n slide!! Home is always where the heart is, but this country girl is glad you’re back in the city!
T-fab May 31, 2007
4:37 pm
This string cracks me up! My fiance hates my giant sunglasses. He calls me Buggo when I wear them.
For me-
1- Trucker hats, unless you own a John Deere.
2- Leggings with a cropped shirt (don’t care if you’re a size negative 14 or a 14w) I have seen this in DC WAY too many times!! Leggings and a longer shirt- if you can pull it off, rock out, but I *hate* the short shirt/leggings look.
3- Belly shirts. 1992 called, want their look back.
4- Gentlemen, hopefully this goes without saying, but fishnet/mesh shirts are NEVER appropriate.
Everything else has been covered.
Johanna- I actually just saw a guy at lunch with a denim shirt and denim shorts on… and, to put frosting on your cake- his denim shirt had an Orlando Magic logo!!!
Ramon Valdez May 31, 2007
4:53 pm
That is absurd. As a male, I think she is cute and stylish, from what I can tell. Carpi-like seersucker is preppy sexy. If a woman is stylish and hot, men will notice and appreciate both.
LJG May 31, 2007
5:25 pm
Cargo Shorts-nothing ruins a guy more than when you look at his oh so attractive face and then look down to discover that he is sporting side pockets.
you just gave me chills *and* a flashback to a time when I dated a man who showed up not only with a denim-on-denim ensemble but a denim-on-denim-on-denim (jacket, too) one. A quick and relentless intervention was engaged.
I wrote a post on this on my blog a few months ago, and I admitted that one of the major drawbacks to dating older men is their struggle to pull off the weekend casual wear. Suits they’ve got down but once Saturday rolls around, especially a *warm* Saturday…oh man, it is not pretty.
rdhd May 31, 2007
7:59 pm
Johanna,
That’s not just an older guy thing. Well, I don’t know what you consider older, but I’m 35 and my summer weekend wardrobe is not great. I admit it. For all my opinions, I’m sporting some horrible shorts and an old snowboarding t-shirt right now. Not a great look.
Fall/winter weekend, I’m fine. Spring/summer weekday/work, I’m fine. Maybe it’s my aversion to the heat (any heat).
CGee May 31, 2007
10:41 pm
Offhand:
My boyfriend and male friends hate on women:
Tevas or Birkenstock sandals
Dresses over jeans
Jersey Culotte/Gaucho Pants
Huge Sunglasses (A la Posh Beckham)
Pointy toe shoes (otherwise known as “elf shoes” – in particular the one that curl up at the end, especially on boots)
I do not like on men:
Tevas or orthopedic looking sandals.
Preppy popped collar shirts with madras pants. Blech!
CGee May 31, 2007
10:44 pm
Also failed to mention:
The oversized beaded “Mrs. Roper” beads that women seem to think are fashionable. Why don’t you just put on the house coat and yell for “Stanleeeyyy”!
Final fashion stink:
Tassled shoes on men. Never trust a man in tassled shoes.
Kathryn June 1, 2007
10:39 am
C – I am with you on what I call “tunic” over jeans. That can look fantastic. That’s long tops/dresses too short to wear with any sense of decency.
For your example, I think your black pants may have made the look even chic-er than jeans.
However, my BF and his friends have seen actual full-on dresses over jeans (as have I), and hated the look so much they’ve extrapolated to almost any long shirt. If it covers your butt, they think it’s too long. (that’s the point of bickering difference)
alison June 1, 2007
11:14 am
i second or third guys’ hatred of gaucho pants, uggs, empire waist dresses and shirts (my boyfriend always feigns horror and pats my stomach – “just checking for babies”) and capri pants – as a friend used to put it, “pants or shorts! just make up your mind!”
another guy friend just piped up: halter tops and jeans that are too low on the derriere.
for menswear, you all have hit the big ones. i really detest unpolished, scuffed dress shoes. they ruin an otherwise polished look, and i see so many guys on the metro like this.
alison June 1, 2007
11:16 am
i really dig that dress – rachel do you know the designer or where she got it?
T-fab June 1, 2007
11:21 am
Johanna:
Oh no. Oh no. Please tell me you opted for a “night in” instead of heading out and about with Denim Dan…
rdhd:
Personally, I love a guy’s weekend cas wear to be khaki shorts, and a classic button down shirt with the sleeves rolled up (obviously just once or twice, we’re not talking past the elbow here..)
And of course, a good tan goes a LONG way!!! I’m a big fan of the “I just got done sailing” look.
Emily June 1, 2007
11:30 am
One thing I hate: When girls say Name of boyfriend “doesn’t like me in this or doesn’t like my hair like that.” Who cares? I like the idea of knowing what both sexes don’t like about the other’s tastes in general, but the dressing for your boyfriend thing is ridiculous. Guys don’t really care in the reverse of the situation… and if they do, they have to make one HELL of an effort.
alison June 1, 2007
12:02 pm
i won’t speak for anyone else who mentioned a significant other here, but i was citing my boyfriend’s comment purely for humorous purposes. i agree – wear what you want, period!
Emily June 1, 2007
1:36 pm
Sorry — totally didn’t mean to call anyone here out! I have a couple of friends who recently went on and on about that, and they always dwell on it, that I just had to say something somewhere. But yes, everyone wear what you want!
Corporate Flunky June 1, 2007
1:48 pm
A good rule of thumb is to stay away from anything worn by Paris, Nicole, or Lindsay.
The oversized sunglasses, already mentioned, is the worst offense. Also a no-no: logoed wear and accessories. What does a Louis Vuitton purse say other than “I’m a fashion lemming”? And ladies, just because you have ten fingers doesn’t mean you have to be wearing rings on every one of them.
alright, so I’m the boyfriend (not husband) of the original subject of all this…the black and white flowy dress on the redhead…
I will not touch men in this city for the vast majority are fashion retarded to put it nicely. So here’s my list of what I dislike about DC women fashion, all of which my lovely girlfriend follows, usually…
1. Comfy without trend- Uggs were okay, and are okay, because they are trendy and cute. But flip flops, baggy sweatshirts, sweatpants….come on. Have some respect for the people’s eyes around you. you might love to be “comfy” to and from work but you make this city look like an ugly slumber party for the cankled masses.
2. Sneakers- Belongs above but it needs special mention. Unless they are Italian designer Pumas or limited edition campers, PLEASE do not wear sneakers outside the softball pitch or gym. You look like a college intern or a dweeb from the country.
3. Hair- It all starts there. Really ladies? Unless you’re going to the hair cuttery, no one is going to think down of you on the hill or K st if your hair has SOMETHING special going on.
4. The drab- I could go on and on but I will stop here. The problem with women in the city is the drab. They buy the safest thing, either what they see in a committee room or what there sorority sisters wear to Dupont on Saturday nights. Men love, LOVE, an individual. If you wore a swan around your neck we will talk to you. If you wore a red dress with green shoes and a yellow necklace, we will buy you the bottle not the glass. If you wear tight jeans, pointy shoes, and a black blouse, we will talk to you last and already be bored when we see you. Show yourself, your true self…if you’re boring, uptight, republican, then flaunt it. Wear black and gray and military boots, but please just show who you are. I have no idea who most of the women are in the city but many of them look like Ann Taylor to me. And I don;’t want to date Ann.
Kathryn June 1, 2007
5:23 pm
I like the jewelry. Necklace matching the dress, bracelet matching the shoes.
sb June 1, 2007
5:37 pm
I have this great blousy shirt that’s a bit tuxedo-ish. My girl friends think is adorable- my ex would roll his eyes like crazy every time I put it on. I also think guys don’t get the whole layering thing. Layering is truly an art, gentlemen.
sb’s comment made me think of something…for some reason, none of my guy friends – who range in age from early 20s to late 40s – like my rosette-adorned/ruffled *anything*. I have these great black peeptoes with a rosette fastened right above the “peep” and so far, women have loved them while men give it the “eh, they’re okay” verdict which we all know is tantamount to “that’s sh*t’s no good.” Same with a black silk halter that has a ruffled tuxedo-bibbing. “It’d be better with all that mess down the front,” one said to me as we sat down to dinner.
Why not, guys? Why not?
And for the record, I still wear both ALL THE TIME.
After the “controversy” about the calves-only pic, thanks for showing a larger woman without apologizing. She has a great fashion sense, which is the point, right?
rachel June 3, 2007
11:13 pm
alison–
i totally asked her, and then totally forgot. grahhhh. ) :
Sorrrrreeeeee….
and jamy,
yes!
& it was not just to get people to think beyond size, but to also think beyond “dos” or “don’ts” for style in DC.
I love the dress with the crumb-catcher and the “Washed silk crepe back satin strapless bias gown with draped bodice and antique bow brooch.”
dunebuggy June 4, 2007
10:51 am
I just wanted to pipe in and say that I wear capri pants and I don’t care! I find that I get fewer mean comments about the whiteness of my legs when I opt for capris rather than shorts. And no, I can’t tan. Nor do I want to!
Katie G. June 4, 2007
12:30 pm
Rachel: Do you know where she got that necklace? I love it! Hope all is well…
Lisa Anne Silhanek June 4, 2007
4:38 pm
Michael Spaulding is as good looking as his shoes! Question is – Is he as comfortable?
I met Gunmetal Shoes before I did a big trade show in Hong Kong. Packing light, I accidently left my flats in NYC and headed to HK with 4inch Gunmetals. Four days later – still on my feet and still fine. The only shoe I have ever taken out of a box and put on and worn…all day.
I’m up to five pairs now – each one completely different and wildly comfortable…and gorgeous! So the question remains…..
rdhd June 4, 2007
8:42 pm
Jeez, no one’s commented yet? I will:
Don’t wear what he’s wearing.
But I love his commentary, especially this: “Some jerky will wear an ascot … and you’ll envy him.” I wish I could wear an ascot, but I’d look like a tool.
rdhd
michael June 4, 2007
11:17 pm
hmmm, just reading the comments here and thinking– i am a bit confused. am i just as comfortable? like an old t-shirt on a rainy day? like leather seats in a 3.0? like a george smith sofa in front of a roaring fire? well, yes, in these cases i think i am, and ahem, maybe even more so (ehehe). but i am shy, so if you see me out and about, i am most likely not comfortable and therefore sticking close to the wall or bar, so please, come and talk to me! thanks joanne, rima, carla and lisa! you are all beautiful dreams!!!
jj June 5, 2007
11:03 am
a “caffeinated epiphany”? really? no offense, but that doesn’t make any sense.
rachel June 5, 2007
11:35 am
OK….well then a caffeine epiphany/revelation. Whatever. You knew what I meant. Jeez.
rachel June 5, 2007
11:38 am
Katie–
I wish I did!! She told me she’d email me to tell me, but I never heard from her. I’m pretty sure she said it was from Spain though (of course!).
It was really gorgeous in person.
Ann June 5, 2007
11:43 am
wow, I want to do this SO badly! Sounds like a blast! This would probably turn out a lot better than the bag I made out of two bandanas and some embroidery thread.
paul June 5, 2007
4:18 pm
a caffeinated epiphany does make sense. this writing is meant to be evocative and expressive, not biologically or metaphysically precise. your comment is a bit silly jj.
kat June 5, 2007
4:20 pm
oh man i love these girls, color wee!
MD June 5, 2007
11:48 pm
Kenny, Kenny, Kenny…
Really? Those pants? Boys and girls- take note. Kenny’s pleats add an easy 20 lbs on his slim frame. Throw in an additional 10 lbs. by allowing them to ride a few inches too high. I know that pleats are beloved in Washington but really, take a look, gents. Not cute.
MD June 6, 2007
12:00 am
First guy is a fox!
rdhd June 6, 2007
8:47 am
Sorry to contradict, but pleated trousers are supposed to be worn at your natural waist. If you let them sag they billow and give you the diaper look–hence why so many young men look like idiots in them. Pulling them to your waist lets the pleats flatten as you stand, and the cuffs add weight to the leg to help that.
Now, skinny people really don’t need pleats (single at most) like us fuller-figured guys do. So that part I’ll agree with: skinny + lots of pleats looks bad. But it still won’t make him look the least bit fat.
rdhd
rachel June 6, 2007
10:15 am
It’s not the same, but if you liked her necklace, you might like some of these designs: http://wedreamincolour.com/jade/shrinky_007.html
They’re offering 20% off through June 30 with the code INSTYLE07…
I’ll comment on the tres chicas in the first pic once I find something nice to say…I adore the grey and white dress the cute blonde is wearing. It’s so refreshing and pseudo-vintage at once.I cannot get enough of bows and her shoes are just the cherry on top of a lovely outfit.
jaja
Gwen June 6, 2007
1:39 pm
Rachel– You’re so right about the point on 81, where you’re finally in the mountains and can roll the windows down and enjoy the fresh air. From one SWVa gal to another, well done!
MD June 6, 2007
3:16 pm
Wrong! Heavier people have even more reason to avoid pleats – you have fallen prey to a very common misconception. Pleats add weight- plain and simple. You cannot tell me that when you look at the picture (above) that you know for certain he is not hiding a big gut or strangely shaped waist, hips, or butt under that balloon. One can imagine that based on his size and stature above the plets, that he is slim but its not a given. Additionally by beginning that ballooning at “natural waist” you are really leaving even more up the imagination…and not in a good way.
rdhd June 6, 2007
3:38 pm
For starters, that guy in the picture looks skinny to me. There is no indication whatsoever that he is hiding anything within those pleats (no offense sir!). There is no balloon there (at least not caused by pleats, maybe you’re seeing something (that I’m not) caused by baggy pants).
I am wearing pleated pants right now and they do not balloon or billow out at all. Why? Because I wear them at my waist so the pleats lay flat. Why do I wear pleats with my gut? Because they give more room when I sit. They accomadate my keys and change (which flat fronts don’t do well at all without being horribly baggy). And they help to hide my stomach by being worn at my waist.
This is like telling a woman with a stomach to not wear a wrap-around dress because it will cause confusion as to whether that’s the dress gathered there or her stomach. That’s the point, it’s meant to hide.
I am sorry, but you are just wrong on this issue. Flat out wrong.
Amy June 6, 2007
3:42 pm
She looks cute, but I think Asian girls have it extremely easy when it comes to finding clothes that fit right and look flattering on them. Most Asian girls, such as this one, don’t have much in the way of curves to work around.
* See also: why Japanese girls can wear outfits that are completely wacky and INSANE and still look good in them.
FYI, Mayorga has a nice branch inside the Tivoli Theatre on 14th St.
Kaja Snell June 6, 2007
5:27 pm
The necklace is hand made from a silk scarf by a very fine Mexican designer… similar to Hermes. Each of the jewlery pieces are different. Some of their products can be seen online at – http://www.pinedacovalinusa.net
Kaja Snell` June 6, 2007
5:29 pm
I just read these comments – sorry it took so long to respond. Ya’ll are sweet.
If you want a necklace – there might be another way to get one. Email me, and if you’re local to DC maybe a friend of mine in Mexico can hook you up! k_snell@hotmail.com
I’m not sure what you mean by “curves,” but if you’re using the definition I go by, I think the gentle contour of the stomach-to-hips is hands-down the sexiest part of a woman’s body. Having watched my Asian mother shop out of necessity in the children’s department her entire life (even adult petites in size 0 dwarf her frame) only confirms how happy I am my Kentuckian father won out in that particular part of my genetic makeup.
I lived in Asia for two years, and even by the end, I would still mistake 35 year old women for 7th grade boys if I only saw them from behind. I did then and I do now feel sorry for them and their utter lack of a feminine shape, because unlike fat thighs or even small breasts, there is nothing a woman with a straight up-and-down torso can do to achieve the hourglass silhouette. Not even a surgical procedure, to my knowledge.
Now if you meant “curves” to mean “heavy in the middle,” that’s a different story…
Joanna June 6, 2007
9:05 pm
Johanna-
I too agree the stomach-to-hip hourglass shape is the sexiest part of a female anatomy, but I would have to disagree with you that asian women have NO curves. I am asian, and I do have some curve, but it isn’t as prominent as that of a Latino woman for example. It’s really difficult to find clothes that hugs my curves in the states, as most are not cut to my shape. I happen to be 35, and although I do have a more “boyish” figure, if I dressed in a dress, no one would mistaken me as a 7th grader. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and clothes can accentuate or worsen one’s natural looks. So, Amy, I wish I could wear some of the stuff that nonasians wear so beautifully. Grass is always prettier on the other side.
I didn’t mean to imply *all* Asian women were curve-free, only that my experiences – which included my Mom’s struggle to shop and the very boyish figures I saw in China – have made me appreciate my pronounced curves that much more.
A tent would help to hide your stomach too…you’ve just proven my point without knowing it.
Why can people not grasp the concept that “more material does not mean hidden?”
You have to wear what you feel comfortable in but you along with many Americans suffer from “fashion dismorphia.”
Lastly, I do not think that Kenny actually looks “heavy” but he certainly does not look as slender as he would in flat front.
MD June 7, 2007
12:04 pm
Dysmorphia..that is.
they're all the same June 7, 2007
12:14 pm
ummm, they’re khakis, people. you’re obsessing. he looks good. leave it at that.
Deformed Overweight Person June 7, 2007
1:52 pm
“You cannot tell me that when you look at the picture (above) that you know for certain he is not hiding a big gut or strangely shaped waist, hips, or butt under that balloon.”
Haha–wow. You are right. He is probably hiding a deformed hip bone or obese butt. I know that’s why I wear pleated khakis. To hide my obesity. Thankfully, all of my obesity is located in my lower stomach and upper thighs. Phew. Thanks for pointing this out.
foe pas June 7, 2007
3:30 pm
if you look closely, it appears as if his tie is undone. hanging lower than it normally would, it gives the appearance that his pants are hiked up. the angle change line on a tie must always be equal with the belt.
i think he looks snappy enough. and she looks … simply delectable.
Bespooked June 7, 2007
3:50 pm
What THE POLITICO’s Kenny Day wore to the Courage Cup’s kick-off party (see photo above) is, well, okay, but just okay. My problem is that he could have just as easily worn the outfit to the office.
Preppy need not be boring, but the look does demand that creativity find its expression in “strikingly subtle” ways. (E.g., a very small, well-chosen and colorful flower in the jacket’s left-lapel hole, or truly interesting cufflinks.)
As for Day’s pleated khakis: I know they’re a DC-standard, but that’s truly regrettable. I get RDHD’s point about pleated trousers worn waist-high. In my opinion, howsoever, the only folks who do that well are the Brits when they wear waist-high BESPOKE trousers with one pair of INWARD-pointing (not outward-pointing, as the rest of the world wears them) pleats — WITH BRACES. (Think classic Savile Row, bespoke trousers, and they way the can sort of hang on a gent’s frame.)
Really, though, the District ought to enact a carbon-emission trading scheme, but for pleated trousers instead of greenhouse gases.
To Day’s credit, his two-button blue blazer (sans pseudo-gold or brass buttons) looks sharp enough.
In contrast, Carolyn wore a dress that (a) wouldn’t be mistaken for office wear; (b) has a nice line, so far as I can tell; and (c) while not possessing the fiercest of palletes, is nonetheless colorful and expressive enough.
Kenny’s outfit: C/C-
Carolyn: B/B+
Bespooked June 7, 2007
4:01 pm
Yusuf’s outfit is pretty fierce, in terms of colors and details — the lime-ish green bandana covering the expressive hair; the “green-ful” tie-dyed t-shirt that reveals layer below at the sleeves, and has “rocker” scrawled on the back; the forest green and white Air Jordan b-baller shorts; the black socks with what looks like patterns of green ganja leaves; the black pumas.
I’d give Yusuf a B+/A-.
What would propel him into full-fledged “A” territory, though, would be if he were throw an unexpected splash of warm color somewhere. Red or burnt orange in the beads, or ONE green, white and red striped armband, or a purple and orange bike? — a little something to throw-off his palette so that it doesn’t border on predictable, and instead makes him seem like he’s not just trying to match, but also trying to complement and play with colors schemes.
In general, though, well done.
MD June 7, 2007
4:05 pm
Dear Commenters-
The rest of the world has acknowledged that pleats are not cool, nor figure flattering, nor handsome. Why DC, why can you not let them go? And if you so choose to wear them, why defend them so valiantly? Sad.
The woman in the white boatneck shift with black leather cut-out belt – the “secret” dress – is hands-down wearing my favorite look of the night. Pearl studs, simple black peeptoes — perfection.
Katie Smith June 8, 2007
12:58 pm
But didn’t you post a woman with a brown or black skirt and white shirt because she wore it well? Sometimes classiness is pretty important and patterns don’t always work…
Besides, one thing I would say regarding the mission is that if you want to prove D.C. has style, you have to realize that yes, D.C. has it’s own style, and it doesn’t have to be a certain crazy way like NYC’s or be described in a way that would be perfect for the pages of Seventeen magazine — that’s just not this city, and it doesn’t have to be. Every city is different.
I really do like your blog, but maybe you should think about what the people “doing D.C.” are doing well and contextualize it a little more in that way. You’re not finding the cream of the real D.C. culture. Maybe you should give that a try.
E June 8, 2007
2:06 pm
Bored.
perks June 8, 2007
7:33 pm
This is very similar to your “simple and elegant posting” from Wednesday… except that she’s wearing shorts instead of a skirt and high heals instead of flats.
I love, love, LOVE the girl in the yellow tank and patterned skirt. Bright, interesting and pretty. Can’t beat it.
zac June 9, 2007
9:30 am
Amazing! Where can I find this cutting-edge look? She must have traveled to the Republic of Banana to come up with that creation. Thanks for the inspiration.
David G. June 9, 2007
1:31 pm
She looks amazing. Simple black and white makes a huge statement. She’s a beautiful woman.
Hi Rachel: Glad you had fun the other night and it was great to meet you. Please send me a pic of you logo and I will add your link to our home page for a couple of months and then it will go to the favorite links page we are working on. Have A Lucky Day!
Wow. Definitely a head-turner…I’m not sure if that’s a good thing in this case!!!
md June 11, 2007
6:08 pm
You can “have fun with it” without wearing a costume or making yourself a mockery. He is looking a fool and confirming stereotypes the rest of us have to live down.
yoyo June 11, 2007
6:16 pm
Well, I did it. It was my first time in the store and I loved the dresses! But the event was not planned very well; I don’t think they were expecting a large crowd. I made an appointment but had to wait for a half hour. The fabrics were beautiful and there were plenty to choose from but the construction of the bag was not well made, there was no base (structure) to the bag which made it flimsy. I wanted a reversible bag and had to find someone else who was willing to swap fabrics with me, luckily I did. Overall the process was fun.
j June 11, 2007
6:42 pm
yeah, i’m usually into the street pics but i would”ve passed on this one, dull…
MD June 11, 2007
7:37 pm
Both looks in the first pic hit each of the ladies in all the wrong places. Boobs are a powerful thing. Knowing how to accentuate/compliment your bust can make or break your outfit. Blue looks overly busty and even saggy and white looks flat. Both could have been avoided with cuts that suit their bodies.
MD June 11, 2007
7:39 pm
First three girls look like “Barbie and Rockers (not in a good way).” Grey is perfection!
If this is the same Katie Smith who went to lunch at Busara in Reston last Wednesday, you need to back off. Project Beltway highlighted a young lady just two weeks ago who was wearing a fabulous black pencil skirt with a perfectly fitted white button down paired with a set of killer shoes and black bag. Pay attention. Besides, DC style is constantly evolving. As our community continues to become more diverse we will see more eclectic styles mixing with traditional yet modern. Oh, and also pay attention to the fact that if you are that same Katie you should realize that going out with a guy who has a girlfriend is a major issue you need to deal with. Times that by 1,000 since he lives with his girlfriend. So low class to be the other woman.
That said, this is why I love Project Beltway…the editor does not discriminate an skew the fashion horizon. She’s celebrating the style and individuality of everyone on the streets with great respect. She brings smiles, balance and diversity into our everyday. So, DC Metro women (and guys) let’s stop the low self esteem and overly judgmental ways and start respecting ourselves and each other…when it comes to dating someone who’s already taken (I mean, just wait to see how his relationship plays out before you act like a hoochie) or to fashion (it’s an expression of ourselves, right?).
K…thanks.
Caroline June 12, 2007
9:26 am
That’s what I’m sayin’. Except for a few pairs of nice work pants that came from Express or the Victoria’s Secret catalog, my entire wardrobe is from Forever 21, Target, or H&M.
Anna June 12, 2007
9:28 am
I absolutely love your blog! I do think that the shopping parties around DC are getting very old. They are all the same thing.
MD June 12, 2007
11:29 am
Meeeeeeoooowwwww Raquel.
MD June 12, 2007
11:31 am
She is a delight! Forward and confident while still dressing age appropriate. Soopa!
MD June 12, 2007
11:33 am
They are cute but half of it is them…not sure if the clothes matter as much when you are good looking and appear confident and comfortable.
rachel June 12, 2007
12:26 pm
I would definitely agree with you on some (not all though) of the parties…particularly the ones that are of the “Girl’s Night Out!”/”Pamper Yourself Party” variety…it’s a little offensive to keep marketing the concept that spending a lot of $$ on clothing or beauty products equals a night of “pampering.”
rachel June 12, 2007
12:51 pm
Just to sort of explain – I was more referring to the cotton knit-scoopneck-short-sleeved-shirt-with-basic khaki-or-black pants combo…this kind of outfit just really doesn’t have much shape or detail to offer.
And I firmly believe that EVERY woman (and man)has something to celebrate…as opposed to sticking with boring & predictible & shapeless. A well-cut pencil skirt (or whatever skirt shape suits ya) and a perfectly tailored, crisp white button-down are both staples if you ask me.
As for the other comments…I try to not get all Seventeen magazine on this site, and I hope that it never gets cheesyfied that way. Though sometimes I’m in the mood for that. You’ll just have to hang in there. ( ; Beyond that…I really try to focus my lens on anyone and everyone, because the beauty of DC is that we have all different sorts of folks all “doing D.C.” The “cream” of the D.C. culture might be ladies heading to church in their white pantyhose and big hats. It might be a man with a penchant for women’s handbags. It might even be the powerful female lobbyist in a St. John suit – predictible maybe….but only in Washington.
KKC June 12, 2007
1:54 pm
I’m sorry, but I don’t get it as they don’t even look like they’re going to the same place let alone being a couple. She looks completely put together and he looks like he rolled out of bed and picked up what was on the floor on the way out the door. And how old is he? Why is he still dressing like he’s on a date in High School? You ladies put up with too much in this town. Beautiful women with guys that dress like mooks… Sigh.
Just *another* reason why I prefer dating older men — they’re generally much more attuned to the nuances of complementary dress, not to mention overall mannered behavior. If I have to physically move a 20-something guy to the outside of me as we’re walking down the street or hold one back so I can exit the elevator first one more time, I’m going to scream!
But back to the picture — this woman is shockingly beautiful, cute outfit or not.
cute dress and shoes! and haha – i don’t think they look out of place together at all! it’s kind of the best part of being into clothes – dressing up a little bit when you feel like it and not needing your bf/gf/anybody else to give you context with their outfit. and he seems to be doing pretty well for himself – his clothes all have a nice fit and he even matches. can you really your boyfriend for more than that!?!
KKC June 12, 2007
5:00 pm
Well, there you go Johanna. One evening in the city I’m at a sidewalk table watching beautifully dressed women with guys in baseball caps and cargo shorts and then I caught myself in the window and I was that guy too. I’m sorry, but I still say she looks like she’s going to dinner and he’s going to the Black Cat. Dressing down is once thing and dressing up dressing down completely another, but if you’re going to wear something that says “why bother” then you shouldn’t bother at all.
Corporate Flunky June 12, 2007
5:08 pm
Some posters are missing the point. They’re going to a comic book store, not a State Dinner. They seem to be comfortable in their own skin, which is all that matters.
Katie June 12, 2007
5:18 pm
Sure. All I’m saying is that like the movie industry is to L.A. (Hollywood) and the corporate culture is to NYC (Wall Street) and the night life is to Miami (uh, let’s just call that one la vida loca), politics and the power struggle is to D.C. (”the Beltway” — not just the Hill). Sure, there are tons of people doing other things in L.A., NYC, etc. besides their main attractions, but it’s those main attractions that define the city, its culture, and therefore its fashion. So the largest portion of fashion in all of those cases is based on those cultures, just like fashion throughout the city should be primarily focused on D.C.’s main culture, and should expand from there.
rachel June 12, 2007
9:32 pm
Looks like Caroline and all of the other cheap-thrill-fashion enthusiasts (myself included) can expect to be wooed by a soon-to-launch boutique line from Forever 21. Thankfully the prices still won’t wear out the wallet: http://fabsugar.com/309434
The Fashion al Fresco event is posted on the Dress for Success Washington DC website here: http://www.dfswashingtondc.org/. Come join us for a summer celebration, outside at Poste!:)
She is obviously quite stylish and I’ll give her the skirt. Most people couldn’t pull that off but I hate the shirt. She is too busty for a gathered neckline…atleast of that high cut. Makes her look “swim teamish.” A lower neckline or simple crew neck t-shirt with cap sleeves would have better suited her. It would take away from the “top heaviness.”
MD June 13, 2007
9:06 pm
Fine but snooze…and his jacket sleeves are too short. A bit of cuff is good but that’s just plum crazy. Ha! I’ve always wanted to bring “plum” back as a descriptor. Spread it like wildfire.
It took seeing this picture for me to realize that with the high-waisted skirt, I absolutely can NOT rock the gathered top. With a lower waistline, my “top heaviness” doesn’t look so “top heavy.” But here, yikes, you’re sooo right. Top retired.
And Rachel, don’t know about you, but I was “excused” – er, didn’t get caught – for taking such a long lunch
MD June 13, 2007
9:38 pm
Wowsers Johanna!
Way to be a sport and take the good, the bad, and the gathered comments.
Very refreshing…not sure I would have taken the critiques so well. Cheers to you and your ability to rock the high-waisted skirt.
MD
Libby June 13, 2007
11:41 pm
I think the creases in the lower tummy area of the cute skirt indicate that it is too tight. I would also say that her with her heavy legs she should consider hemming up that skirt and tack on a seamless bra. I would also run a brush through her hair.
The shoes are very cute.
Actually, the skirt really isn’t too tight. The creases come from the fabric being sateen cotton (i.e. a material that shows *every* wrinkle) compounded from having spent the entire afternoon sitting behind a desk all day.
“heavy legs” – um, okay. Not sure where you’re getting that from, but I’m not going to defend against an attack when I don’t think you have the full story — if you want to reconvene at a later time after you’ve been over to my blog and looked up the March 7th posting or perhaps the March 29th one, I’m game. Don’t feel bad if you feel a bit foolish afterwards. I’ll accept your apology.
The bra is a seamless Ipex from VS – you can see the seams because I was standing in direct 2pm sunlight.
The hair – you’ve got a point. Shoulda pulled it back.
The shoes are my favorite! thanks for the compliment!
best,
J
libby June 14, 2007
12:37 am
Whoa…Someone can sure dish it out on this blog…
I checked out the postings you referenced from your blog. I don’t feel foolish at all – the picture above does not make your legs look attractive. I will assume that it is the picture.
I own the 3.1 Philip Lim Rosette skirt you mentioned in your 3/7 posting. It does the same crinkling you mentioned- I get it.
I was just telling a friend the other day, I LOVE how the young girls in the city dress. I teach a number of them in an after school dance program, and they thrill me with their energy every time.
TOM H June 14, 2007
9:34 am
I don’t know much about fashion but I do know when someone looks great and is very attractive
and Jo is the real deal that much I know……..
Points well taken BUT, what happens when you’re hard on clothes and have to replace them often? My lady spends a lot more on individual pieces than I do. She’s tops and dresses from Anthropologie, I’m suits from H&M & Zara. However, quality shoes, socks, ties, belts, watches, etc are where I tend to spend more. Those details can cost many times what my cheapish suits cost (and $250 is still considered a lot for many men). Because I have bespoke suits as well, nobody is the wiser and I don’t have to worry about damaging a $2000 investment. Building an “adultish” wardrobe of 10 or 12 suits can be costly. It’s all about mix-n-match, rotation, and having *some* sense of style to begin with.
Carly June 14, 2007
2:22 pm
thought you might find this article from today’s WSJ interesting, if you hadn’t already seen it:
I think she looks wonderful! I like the high wasted skirt – its slimming and the top showcases your assets, shoes are great as well. Speaking from a gentleman’s point of view, your great figure and nice ankles would definitely get my attention
Johanna’s look=tres chic. But, I would have thrown in a punch of colour, because her outfit is very much on the safe side and perhaps what you would expect see on the mannequin in the stores. A little personality would have taken it a lot farther. Love the shoes.
I love the hat. I’d rock it with a classic white Gap fitted tee, beat-up fited jeans and cute heels. I love hats. So Isabella B…
paul June 14, 2007
4:58 pm
the directly overhead lighting is the major factor in many of these comments (eg “top heavy”, its having the same effect on her eyes and cheeks). dressing may be the first part of fashion, but lighting is what makes or breaks it. rachel, where was your little assistant with the pop out fill reflector when you needed him?
alison June 14, 2007
5:49 pm
i can’t believe i forgot to mention this before, but it hit me on the metro today — those ridiculous preppy quilted bags. they are just terrible!
ih8khakis June 14, 2007
7:59 pm
This is fashion FREEDOM! USA! USA! USA!
rachel June 14, 2007
10:40 pm
RIP Isabella Blow!
Noelle June 15, 2007
9:23 am
I could care less about the pockets. but I think she looks adorable. I love the fit and color on her.
g is for giraffe June 15, 2007
9:45 am
Simply beautiful!
Jessica June 15, 2007
11:04 am
I find the entire outfit to be charming and well put together. I do not see heavy legs or a too-tight skirt. Johanna, you look great and thank you for the fantastic comments regarding my dress. I’m the cheap and chic redhead.
Just because I’ve noticed a lot of compliments on my shoes, I thought I’d give you the website on which I found them for $40 less than Zappos sells them:
They run a little big, too, so I’d go a half-size down.
Thanks for all the constructive criticism!
Michael June 15, 2007
5:38 pm
She’s beautiful. Is she single?
rachel June 15, 2007
6:10 pm
Carly,
Great read!! The ideas presented in that article (that “fashion” often has a lot to do with appropriateness, power and what a city’s inhabitants do) is a huge part of why I wanted to start this site. That, and the idea that style is personal and tons of inspiration for looking interesting/put-together/what-have-you can be found not just in magazines that hawk pricey designer goods, but on the street, on everyday men & women.
I hope to be able to focus a lot more on the former topic. I’m excited to post an interview I did a little while back that I’ve finally transcribed with an incredibly smart Washington businesswoman who has a really great take on issues of style and power in Washington. Look out for it on Monday!!
Thanks again for passing the article along, and for reading!
anon June 16, 2007
10:18 pm
Awhile ago, Johanna posted that “A girl with calves that size should know to not to wear a hem that hits below the knee. Or even *at* the knee.” I read this and the first thing that came to mind was that I am in a conservative profession, and I couldn’t wear a skirt that hit above the knee if I was off to work. I guess obviously you can’t always follow that rule, and based on Johanna saying she has thicker calves (not an insult, that is the mark of running/working out, from what it looks like) she probably knows that.
The only other issue is that since you should flatter your form, I think both the top and the skirt don’t play up her assets. The skirt is high waisted and attracts attention to the bust instead of her slender waist.
Actually,
I love it! Its very “Wes Anderson-on-a-movie-set” like, and reminds me of when Stella McCartney used to cut all the jacket sleeves a little short.
You have to be a certain body type to pull that off, but thankfully, he is.
I really enjoy the website! Any chance of putting where this dress and other clothes you show are from? There are often really nice things featured but no information on where they are from. The red dress with the unusual pockets, as another example.
Thanks
rachel June 18, 2007
1:30 pm
Sara,
I think I will start to do that a bit more. Her dress was from Puerto Rico, I believe (of course). I can’t tell you how many times I stop someone wearing something fabulous, ask where the loveliness can be found, and the answer is “Japan.” Happens ALL the TIME.
However, I’m often surprised to hear that gorgeous things I see on fellow Washingtonians are from completely accessible places like Zara, H&M, and even Ann Taylor.
The 4th Annual Capital Catwalk Fashion Event, June 23, 2007 from 7-11pm at the Andrew Mellon Auditorium, 1301 Constitution Avenue, NW. Featured designers are Shaka King, Eric Finn, April Reddick, Lenny Yorke, Max Mara, Betsy Fisher, Reiss, Wild Women Wear Red,and celebrity designer, Rachel Roy. This year’s honoree is Tim Gunn of the BRAVO hit reality TV Show “Project Runway”. Get your tickets at http://www.capitalcatwalk.com
C June 19, 2007
9:11 am
That looks a lot like a dress I saw at Target, which unfortunately looked awful on me because I’m too short. On her it’s stunning though. I wish long dresses were more popular– they look so breezy and elegant.
Between this guy and the one in Monday’s shot, I’m convinced: there is a desperate need for a “Men in the Background of Project Beltway Photos” fashion spread. They’re back there working it as hard as the ladies.
Looks (& sounds) like a good time. I was turned away @ the door because of my camera (& there was no way I was going to check it @ the club), but it was my own fault for having forgotten to get a press pass from the band. Oh well, next time. Hope you have a speedy recovery (strep can be nasty).
rachel June 20, 2007
3:41 pm
I slept until 2 p.m. today!
rachel June 20, 2007
3:42 pm
Yup, that’s what I’ll be doing next time (the press pass thing).
Yeah, the man purse, gold shoes, fake hair, and overabundance of femininity/lack of masculinity definitely ruin the shot. Plus, it’s just completely hilarious.
rdhd June 22, 2007
9:05 am
On the left: looks great except for the shoes; he even carries that bag well. Put some light brown brogues on him and he’d look perfect.
On the right: looks like a very sharp sort-of-transvestite (sp?). In the end he just looks like a dude in women’s clothing—by accident. “Oh, I dressed in the dark and put my wife’s pants and jacket on.” Not a good look.
That said, this is far far far more interesting than most all of the men that you usually feature.
rdhd
Dominic June 22, 2007
10:04 am
I really like the white suit and the white shoes. I’d wear that everyday.
MD June 22, 2007
11:12 am
Why’d I get censored?? Obviously I’m not the only one that sees “tranny.”
MD June 22, 2007
11:14 am
I see a latina Tonya Harding…sorry- not flattering.
I am largely opposed to JCREW but the first guy looks great. Okay…everyone looks great. Oh God! Did I actually just support seersucker? Am I still a Democrat? Who am I? I’m going to drink now.
AHH! I’m insanely jealous. I too am too short for the maxi-dress… or am I? Hmmm… maybe I should try, just to see.
MD June 22, 2007
11:22 am
It is difficult to seperate Dominic from the clothes. Not sure if I like anything he is wearing or if everything just looks good on him. D is missing his calling- enough with the “swim team.” How about a little Zoolander action? I’ll be his agent…
paul June 22, 2007
11:22 am
yeah, i like the tan seersucker suit, blue tie, white shoes ensemble best. he looks good enough to be gay. and seersucker is definitely a democratic fabric. if republicans are wearing it, its a ploy to get southern votes.
MD June 22, 2007
11:23 am
She is wicked cool- not sure about the guy.
paul June 22, 2007
11:40 am
those guys look cool as sh*t! some of you ladies need to get over your DC conservativism (or maybe your jealous because they wear it better than you do?)
yeah, a few of the details put it squarely into gay culture, but a lot (if not most) of fashion emanates from the gay world, both street and runway.
take away the clutch and the gold shoes, and they’re rock stars. those wide pants look very cool, and definitely creative. its hard for most people to think outside of the box like that. i think they’ve got real fashion cred.
MD June 22, 2007
11:45 am
Dear Paul-
Men dressing like power-lesbians is not fashion cred. They are horrific.
The girl is bad. And she’s rockin’ the stunna shades like no one’s business. Love it.
MD June 22, 2007
11:52 am
WESC is awesome! I just bought up their store on Robertson in LA. When in West Hollywood it is a “must.” Reasonably priced, fun clothes, bright colors…the style is Gwen Stefani meets Pharrell and has lunch with Kelly Slater.
Take away the purses (esp. that clutch), the yellow man-band on the left and Amerie’s palazzo pants on the right, and I’m quite pleased with these two looks. Not saying I would be stoked if a guy wore this on a first date to Rosa Mexicana, but at least the cuts of the suits fit their bodies well and they’re exhibiting a look-twice kind of personal style.
Bespooked June 22, 2007
12:12 pm
In your full-body photo of Grant Gustafson, it looks as though he is wearing not a seersucker suit, but a linen suit — especially because of the way his sportcoat’s sleeves are wonderfully wrinkling.
The close-up photo of Gustafson’s shoes, however, shows more clearly the fineness of the stripes of his seersucker suit’s fabric. Of all the others, he wears the seersucker suit the best. The cut of his suit, so far as I can tell from the photos, is the most flattering. (Probably helps that he’s not working on an interns budget.)
I’d give him an A-/A.
If would’ve worn a differently colored necktie or, better yet, an appropriate bowtie, and perhaps braces instead of a belt, he would’ve gotten the elusive solid “A.”
etcetera June 22, 2007
12:19 pm
i heard that all staff and interns alike in Sen. Feinstein’s office had to SIGN an agreement that they would not participate (write for, be photographed for, edit, etc.) ANY blogs whatsoever.
hope these boys don’t land in any trouble…
Jenn June 22, 2007
1:02 pm
Paul, they look awful. Accept that gay men are still men and fail at being feminine.
is Quincy’s zara suit for women or men? i’ve seen the men’s suits in zara and unless he had them altered their smallest size is still pretty big for a slim guy. it looks great on him though!
rdhd June 22, 2007
1:43 pm
Well, my bleeding-heart liberal ass will be in seersucker all summer. I love it. But I wouldn’t have on Seersucker Day just to give Lott the finger.
That grey-on-white (?) on Grant looks fantastic. Even with the white bucks which I usually abhore. Spectators all the way. And now that I look closer, are his trouser pleated? If so, he should have cuffed them. Oh well, he still looks good. More power to him.
-rdhd
rachel June 22, 2007
2:16 pm
There seems to be a clear consensus that Grant wore his suit (tan & white actually) best; it might then be interesting to note that he bought it off the rack and then had it tailored.
Lindsay June 22, 2007
3:45 pm
tools
rdhd June 22, 2007
3:45 pm
Rachel,
Was there something else he would have done? It’s not bespoke.
-rdhd
rachel June 22, 2007
3:51 pm
rdhd–
Not sure I understand your question; maybe I’m just undercaffeinated today (quite possible). Right: his suit is not custom-made; he bought it off the rack at Brooks Brothers and then took it to a tailor for some minor adjusting.
Check out the guy’s suit in my recent posting of last night’s Capitol File party. His was custom and looked incredibly snappy.
rdhd June 22, 2007
4:04 pm
Ah, to contrast with the other post. Got it. It wasn’t your lack of caffeine, it was my lack of any ability to draw logical conclusion (all that education not withstanding).
Gotcha now. Guys: the lesson is that just because you (like I) cannot afford bespoke doesn’t mean your OTR suit need look schlumpy. Yes, schlumpy. You have no excuse.
cookie cutter carlo! sike! you cooler than Yao Ming!
Jon Huddelson June 22, 2007
6:51 pm
wow that brandon kid is HOT! i think you should do a full spread on him. Who knew Asians could make such an American tradition look so good?
Joanna June 22, 2007
7:56 pm
The best men outfits that I’ve ever seen was on a New York Times magazine a few years ago, featuring young londoners who wore skinny suits that fit to the T, with pin strip patterns or very traditional, and very expensive looking dark-colored suit fabrics, paired with colorful shirts and silk ties. The look blew me away, and I still remember it well today.
No I am not a “conservative” DC woman who can’t handle colors or shapes on men. In my humble opinion, these men look like there are DC men who want to be upper east side NYC PR yuppies! I just don’t think there is any creativity in men dressing like women. What, should we put pink ribbons in their hair next? So I maintain my stance: guys, can you stop being women wanna bes already. You be you. Or, maybe as you’d like to say, UBU.
lisa June 23, 2007
5:52 am
“Men can look stylish, and fashionable without being women wanna bes. Be yourselves. ”
Maybe they are being true to themselves, just like this.
This isn’t a look for every man, but it is an interesting look for them.
They made it their own, and I think they came out looking good.
Bespooked June 23, 2007
1:44 pm
Pepper Watkins’ made-to-measure (MTM) suit from Pierre Mohan appears superb. (To be clear, Mohan does custom MTM suits, not true bespoke. But given Mohan’s reasonable price-point, his MTM suits look, at first blush, to be well worth the modest investment.) Of course, it also doesn’t hurt that Watkins is one of those tall, lean fellow, on whom clothes will tend to drape well.
The cognac lace-up shoes complement his ensemble — white dress shirt with cuff links, polka-dotted blue tie (is there something above his tie, by the way?), and subtly-patterned white handkerchief — quite well.
Watkins gets the elusive solid “A.” Well done.
From the close-up, by the way, it looks as though the suit’s fabric is seersucker? If so, then I think your entry on Capitol Hill’s seersucker day deserves a parenthetical update, explicitly cross-referencing Watkin’s photo and citing the cut of his and Grant Gustafson’s suits as the sort of fits to which chaps should aspire. Also, kudos to Gustafson for finding a smart, off-the-rack suit from Brooks (which traditionally cuts their suits a bit too “sackish”), and finding someone to keenly alter it.
Bespooked June 23, 2007
1:54 pm
Excellent thread comments. Just one clarification, though.
By the way, it seems as though Grant Gustafson did, quite independently, the sorts of things that Mahon suggests for (what I would term) options-beside-bespoke or OBBs. (Golly, that acroynym looks a lot like Pentagonese.)
Anyways, Friday was a good day for men on this site, sartorially speaking.
The design is very reminiscent of the 1920s, down to the overlapping “shingles.”
T-fab June 25, 2007
10:31 am
I have to say… omy new fave thing in the world is to go on TDY without internet for 2 weeks and return to a backlog of PB! So, I’m finally up to speed and I’m still in love! P.S. Johanna- looking good! Not a lot of women can pull off that skirt, and I think you rocked it!
Aaaahhh! I love it! Rachel, please tell me you found out from where she purchased this fabulous Mouret-style sheath!
rachel June 25, 2007
1:46 pm
Johanna,
“Somewhere in New York”–I know, not too helpful. But yeah I thought of Roland Mouret too.
paul June 25, 2007
1:58 pm
the honeymoon looks great on her!
T-fab June 26, 2007
1:38 pm
I love that you used “slutty” in an article!! So true. We have several skinterns in my office and I just want to buy them each a cheeseburger, give them a hug, and suggest a sweater set and pearls.
Dominic June 26, 2007
1:45 pm
I really like the 3rd photo down, of all the girls. I like how the focus is on the girls glove. Good shot.
Catherine Pitcher June 26, 2007
2:51 pm
Nice choice! I just saw this yesterday on the shopbop website and instantly fell in love with it…I believe it’s called the natalie dress and it’s adorable!
Katie June 26, 2007
3:01 pm
I love that last comment!!
Melanie June 26, 2007
3:33 pm
I don’t mean to be a hater on the DC Scene and all but this is the reason why no one takes this city seriously..None of those garments would get a second glance in NY. All the good designers who are from here just move to NYC or LA to further their careers because of the market. If DC thinks this is great then it obviously shows the lack of fashion knowledge or interest in this city.
rachel June 26, 2007
9:18 pm
…And I love that you want to feed them all cheeseburgers.
MD June 27, 2007
10:55 am
Rachel- there should have been a censored version of that with an option to click through to the NSFW picture. If I ate more than adderall, I would have thrown up.
First, let me just say that I adore George’s Socks ‘n Crocs look. Just adorable. /sarcasm
Regarding the comment, I liken the mentality to that of a person dissatisfied with their weight who sits down and eats a box of twinkies because, “at least it makes me happy.”
“Well, all the talent leaves for NYC so I may as well wear my stained sweatpants out.” That makes no sense.
DC isn’t the fashion capital of the world, and never will be. IMHO what is important is that it develops unique fashion – - more reminiscent, say, of the city’s combined sewer system than “what we used to wear at Prep.”
Then again, I ain’t no fashion plate.
Georgia June 27, 2007
12:33 pm
You just got mentioned & linked in the Reliable Source Gossip chat…Congrats!
Oooh! You like me too! I’m so flattered! Also…loved the article in The Hill about flip flops. They are a serious threat to national security. As in, I might go ballistic if I have to see one more intern thwack by as I’m trying to get Serious Work done.
JM June 28, 2007
12:30 pm
Agreed. Tattoos are now SO commonplace as to not even veer anywhere NEAR edgy or subversive any longer. These two are MAINSTREAM, doubly underscored by the number of tattoos. What’s next for these two — popped collars?
Did you intend to capture the Bruce Willis “Life Free Or Die Hard” film poster in the background?
That’s what you call ironic poetic license commentary on this smoke-free couple.
Rev. James
tiffany June 28, 2007
10:12 pm
to JM popped collars my ass!
Philip June 28, 2007
10:16 pm
Reading these comments makes me laugh. JM, i don’t know who you are or what you look like, but I’m pretty sure i would think you were absolutely ridiculous. To be quite honest we like the way we look. We aren’t trying to be “mainstream” or “edgy”. I think its funny that you think that of us. I’m also willing to bet you wouldn’t say that to our faces if you saw us on the street because I’m pretty sure I’d kick your ass. HA!
-have a good day sir.
tiffany June 28, 2007
10:21 pm
ps: rachel, we really like you’re site and enjoyed meeting you and being apart of you’re website. thanx.
xoxo tiffany and phil
AlaTammy June 28, 2007
10:31 pm
TIFFANY you look stunning as always!-
and if i ever see you with a ‘popped’ collar i will have to personally kick your ass hah
Lindsey June 28, 2007
10:43 pm
FUUUUCK that guy!
i love both of you very much.
CGee June 28, 2007
11:16 pm
While I like their look (except for the blue nike shoes on him – blech), maybe what JM means is that there is nothing unique to their style, as it is seen pretty regularly on the streets these days, just the same as Ann Taylor outfits.
weezer June 29, 2007
12:02 am
well if thats your reasoning then i suppose nothing is really unique anymore…
JM June 29, 2007
9:00 am
Well, it seems like we hit a nerve…
You’re right about one thing — I wouldn’t say anything to your face — live
and let live, I say. From the awful seersucker suits of some days back to
the space-age Sunday hats some women wear. (WTF?)
But this is a DC STYLE BLOG with a COMMENT THREAD, and living in Logan
Circle, I see this look every day. So, it seems like a fair comment to me
with the pics posted here to say — remove the tattoos from this picture and
this look could be in any mall across the country — add the tattoos and
the possibility’s risen ten-fold.
And, uh “kick my ass?” Riight. Meetcha in the Food Court at noon!
etcetera June 29, 2007
9:34 am
i live a few doors down from this mural. i saw a young man putting it up just the other day, and saw a small crowd watch him do it, but i dont know the details. that building was bought a couple of years ago for $10 mil and they were supposed to turn it in to rental apartments. unfortunately, the owners concluded, based on other neighborhood real estate ventures, that rental units would not be sufficiently profitable, so as a result, the building has been sitting empty for a very long time. and at such a great location! it’s a total waste. i’m eager for them to do something useful with it.
have you heard about what’s going in on the other side of that intersection? (catty-corner from st ex.) it should be good!
love the neighborhood gossip!
rdhd June 29, 2007
9:50 am
Nice to see another guy shot.
Unfortunatley those shoes look much better from a distance. Cheap spectator-take off. It looks like freaking wicker. [Btw, ever notice how when you click the photos they don't actually get any bigger? It'd be nice if they did.]
And his shirt and trousers, while linen (looking) is pretty much always wrinkly, he looks a bit sloppy.
But I dig the hat.
rachel June 29, 2007
10:28 am
etcetera,
no, I haven’t heard what they’re doing near st. ex–do tell! or email me if it’s under wraps for some reason. this is my ‘hood as well & love knowing what’s going on…
ANON June 29, 2007
11:05 am
Please fill us in on the neighborhood!
Kathryn June 29, 2007
11:10 am
How is a woman in a $300-$500 jacket an example of CTLE? She’s wearing CT ARE E head to toe.
rachel June 29, 2007
11:56 am
Kathryn,
Good point–I think I was a little confusing there. See my update….she’s not an example of CTLE…she’s more an example of what kind of details to look for when scouting for CTLE.
It was kind o confusing.
azpmg June 29, 2007
12:40 pm
Hi Rachel,
Sorry I couldn’t get this to you sooner…the thongs are Guillaume Hinfray. I think the blog is excellent and I wish you the best!
kshack June 29, 2007
5:17 pm
I have to disagree totally with the first comment. I LOVE the shoes. I love them so much, I would be willing to knock him over and steal them. They are different than the same old, same old that everyone here wears.
As for linen, it is suppose to have that casual, non-pressed look. It is the perfect material choice for summers, especially here in the district. Maybe it’s because I am a southern boy, but I try to wear as much linen and I can between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
This is all wrong…I don’t even know what to dsay. It hurts me in the baby maker.
Band collar shirt? Linen pants in the ‘Please Hammer Don’t Hurt ‘em Varietal? Pier One meets Pussy Cat Dolls Shoes?
I can’t.
Philip June 29, 2007
11:15 pm
I understand its a comment blog, but i think its funny that you take potshots at people on blog sites and not to their face. No matter, i run into people like you everyday. Let’s just agree to disagree.
OCCaliAKA June 29, 2007
11:41 pm
Good cross-section of attendees, including the first woman of size and the “church hats.” Black women of a certain age tend to rock these, even on non-church occasions.
I also love the first couple, although I am usually not a fan of white or off-white non-athletic shoes on men.
OCCaliAKA June 30, 2007
11:10 am
The woman has that wonderful, thick hair needed to pull off a natural. Her confidence comes through in this shot. Good job.
md June 30, 2007
1:41 pm
That’s going to look hot when they are 40 years old.
renee June 30, 2007
4:58 pm
When shopping for clte think: does this look cheap or does this look expensive? Groundbreaking advice. Here is an example of an expensive outfit, now try to find stuff that looks like this…again, your insight and tips blow me away.
Sorry, but it looks cheap to me. Especially the close up.
tiffany July 1, 2007
4:40 am
hah wow. every time i go on here i see more and more haters. yeah, it will look hot when we are 40 years old ur just too much of a pussy to ever get a tattoo so go fuck yourself and grow some balls, and do something for me, the next time you see someone with lots of tattoos say something like tha to their face…. then see what happens to your face. ha. loser.
how can everyone neglect the fact that her huge green hobo purse is totally inappropriate for her outfit and makes it look like CTLC—clothes that look cheapo. That grotesque, outdated purse alone looks like she bought it from a street vendor and kills her otherwise-lovely outfit.
this isn’t fun hair–it’s black hair! not that black hair cannot be fun…
md July 1, 2007
1:02 pm
Wow. Tiffani, you must be a blast at happy hour. Well atleast you have the klass, name, and diction to match your look. Your parents must be so proud and you’re right, tats and cigs make you tough. We should just send you to iraq to scare away the terrorists with your badass look. Seek anger management assistance.
tiffany July 1, 2007
2:57 pm
dumb ass. learn how to fucking spell. go finish high school before you take low blow shots at people you dont even know.
I like the pistol necklace and the Die Hard poster.
And she’s got perfect legs for skinny jeans. Lucky brat.
rdhd July 2, 2007
9:25 am
kshack,
Is it just that the shoes are (supposed to be) spectators that you like? Because if that’s the case, you can get a pair of spectators. Both Allen Edmonds and Church’s (Cheaney’s actually) sells them for reasonable prices. And they are lovely. The Cheaney’s are very nice.
But if it is those shoes in particular, then there’s no help for you. Those are crap and you have crap taste. Sorry.
And yes, we all know that linen wrinkles. But you can look nice in linen. This guy doesn’t. He looks like a bland gray mess.
-rdhd
MD July 2, 2007
10:58 am
Did I mention intelligence? Add that to the mix of qualities this little gem has to offer. Obviously, the spelling errors were on purpose, Akeelah. The victim card doesn’t work so well when you have written violent and angry responses to people on a public forum…so try another route to evoke sympathy.
I won’t waste any more of my wit on you- good luck with your life and your “work in progress.”
My first question is…”What is fashion?” I think there’s a clear distinction between fashion and style. Discussing fashion is rather dippy, in my opinion, but hey I’m a scientist. That said, creative dress is a great expression of character, but within context. There are ways to present yourself without seeming overdone, as is my opinion of many in New York or Los Angeles.
That said, DC is pretty staid and not very open-minded. Smaller southern towns are more expressive and stylish than this city is, and that’s saying a lot about the types of people that settle here. Then again, maybe your blog is too focused on specific areas.
E July 2, 2007
5:36 pm
This isn’t a blog about grammar (I hope). I really, really dig the tatts. Regardless of if ink is “trendy” now or not, they both have great artwork.
em July 2, 2007
9:19 pm
those are actually really nice tattoos, and they’re going to be even more gorgeous once they’re done. and no, i don’t have any myself, nor would i want to–but i can appreciate beauty when i see it.
that said, i onced saw a new yorker (i think) cartoon that said all tattoos, no matter what, say the same thing: “ask me about my parents’ divorce.”
Hmm…I’m not loving them. Breaks the long line of her legs. Another shoe, flats perhaps, would have made the outfit stand out.
MD July 3, 2007
1:43 pm
Poor execution of a good idea. Not into it at all.
MD July 3, 2007
1:44 pm
She looks great!
ok July 3, 2007
1:59 pm
awful.
TOM H July 3, 2007
2:50 pm
Ok speaking from a guys point of view wow
she has fantastic legs…even tho I do like boots I have to agree with Jamy it just doesn’t work here…….
Jolly July 3, 2007
6:23 pm
I think she looks great, bag and all. The bag makes the self-confident statement “who needs to be color coordinated all the time, and besides, this classic, never out-of-date bag holds all my extra stuff…”
By the way, the lovely young woman is my daughter… what would you expect me to say?
eek! boring tank top and tiny white denim skirt? no! awful grey SUEDE (in summer) boots? no!!
there are some great ankle boots out there that girls can wear with things other than pants, but these are not those ankle boots. ew i bet her feet are so sweaty… eewwwwww. maybe interesting shorts would have changed my outlook on this outfit. and a fantastic hat. and some gold necklaces. and different sunglasses.
Jackie July 5, 2007
10:41 am
Not only is her T-shirt kick ass … I love that she paired it with stripes.
Very very cool.
I don’t think they carry it at Kickballers, but Kickballers does have some great women’s stuff, including a fitted tee with a Betty-Page-like pinup astride an enormous cassette tape.
Noelle July 5, 2007
11:29 am
I love the Rhianna-esque bob, longer in the front than in the back, on the girl in the above post. It doesn’t work for everyone, but it looks great on her!
rdhd July 5, 2007
12:00 pm
I really thought someone might criticize that first pic so I just left it. But since no one else has…
What’s up with the crotch-grab? Why do I have to see that? What “style” does that convey exactly?
Drop him from this gallery and you’ve got some good shots of cool style. I love the shoes–remind me of my hs days. Can I get the polka-dots in blue?
-rdhd
Greg July 5, 2007
12:40 pm
Why are they having a party anyway with them never having any customers? The dude grabbing his crotch looks like a faggot with that LV Boy Purse. He reminds me of http://www.bryanboy.com.
We carry Hellz Bellz, and whatever Kickballers wish they did.
First of all I’m all about looking like a person who is AHEAD of the curve.
Faggot?Wow… I’m probably fucking your Girlfriend RIGHT NOW.
I’m rocking Ralph Lauren POLO Gloves, Shorts, Shirt, under shirt (which some men REALLY need to wear), Louis Vuitton Damier Naviglio, and vintage mint Nike Air Trainer Vengeance 1993.
Vintage 1978 Acetate White Aviators, and a very special hat from LTD magazine made for DC.
Until you know what’s really up and you are MAN enough to wear REAL men’s apparel don’t speak.
Furthermore, When you see your girl with that crisp glossy stuff on her lip she keeps lickin… I just got done with her.
see you at StockExchagedc.com
Real Man. Real Talk.
oh and the crotch grab is for you sucker asses that would even attempt to hate on that apparel.
1989 package delivery for you.
stop being so pretentious and have some fun you prude.
rachel July 5, 2007
10:55 pm
Joanna–
yes.
thank you!
MD July 5, 2007
10:57 pm
Ummmm…Derek, Hansel? Is this Zoolander or Project Beltway? Why don’t you two have a walk off and entertain us with more than your “hard” fashion jive. That said, I dig the style of Blue Steel in the first pic – too bad the image was ruined with the ride or die blogging.
MD July 5, 2007
10:59 pm
Proportions are all wrong. Good in theory but just didn’t come together…
MD July 5, 2007
11:04 pm
Frenchies everywhere are chocking on their cafe au laits. Je ne comprends pas. Il est tres terrible! Je deteste! If I squint, I get a low rent Amelie but only if I squint…okay, squint and drink.
rachel July 5, 2007
11:06 pm
Now this is getting good.
MD July 5, 2007
11:16 pm
I actually think she looks fantastic and if the bag matched, I would be disappointed. The oversized buttons are great and the bold pattern is hot. My only beef is that the jacket looks a bit out of season – very fall (especially with the earth tones in the dress) but it may just not have not translated well over the Web. Overall, I find her quite fashionable and tasteful.
Yikes, I agree with MD. I was sort of digging the attitude (from a safe distance) until I read the dialogue, and now my face is all scrunched up in TOTALLY turned-off puss.
This is *so* not my scene, but the pictures and colors and bad-ass attitudes definitely pique my interest…
linds July 6, 2007
8:31 am
dude: it doesn’t matter WHO you are wearing. If you look like a jackass, you probably shouldn’t be wearing it. and the only thing you are probably fucking is your right hand. kisses!
I’m really sorry if my fiery smash-back on “Greg” left you in the “Oh my he is so rude and cocky.” mind state.
That particular “Greg”, is posing as the Greg that owns Elite and Palace Five, and I was just really bashing them, in hopes of finding out who it really was.
Unfortunately I am a bit of a brawler, come from a pretty rough and tumble Irish boxing background, and have no qualms in writing caustic commentary on the internet that would hopefully lead to an in person confrontation.
I was pretty offended that I was being accused of homosexuality for having a boy purse, and that people couldn’t enjoy a raunchy crotch grab, in jest, at a party.
Its a real shame people still revert to the homo stuff just because a male has a bag, wears traditional men’s accessories, or dresses like a bit of an eccentric.
Go figure in conservative DC.
All that aside, project beltway and Rachel are great and I’m glad so any people come here just to see the asshole in the plaid shorts.
I do love my right hand as she is a nice lady and never stands me up.
I’m also available for walk-offs, dance-offs, staring contests, twister challenges, thumb wrestling, and sword fighting any day of the week.
I’ve exchanged pleasantries with this gentleman a couple of times while out walking Montesquieu after work. He’s got such a lovely accent (sigh…), is always impeccably dressed with a spread-collar and French cuffs (I’m a *total* sucker for the over-the-top Savile Row look) and absolutely adores Jack Russell Terriers. In a word, perfect.
rdhd July 6, 2007
1:18 pm
The blue and pink work really well for him. And I like the chance he took with a checked shirt and a patterned tie. It’s tough to get right.
I was going to say that the glasses should be silver or blue but then thought better of it. They’re probably always there adding that dash of color.
But, yeah, he should take his hands out of his pockets for the photo. The trousers do look funny like that.
-rdhd
MD July 6, 2007
2:18 pm
I can’t believe I’m endorsing pleated pants…but this Silver Fox looks fantastic from head to toe.
If I was a strong black woman with a bad weave and a daytime talk show I might even say “fierce!”
MD July 6, 2007
2:36 pm
Everyone on this blog needs a little Celebrity 101. If you agree to be a figure in the public spotlight…in this case a subject on a style blog, then be prepared to be ridiculed, analyzed, complimented, and bashed. It comes with the territory. Lashing out and smack talking in defense of your fashion, style, sexuality, etc. makes you look weak and silly i.e. Britney Spears with a shaved head and an umbrella. If people are talking (good, bad, etc.) you’ve made an impact. You can’t have haters if you aren’t worth hating – I personally love any publicity at all because it means I’m worth talking about. Just a moment of pop culture advice, young grasshoppers.
yo gangsta-sean, polo ralph lauren doesn’t rock anyone’s world (Muffy aside, and she’s probably faking it). actually, some of ralph’s couture/high end stuff is cool, but that’s not what you’re sporting sport. have another plastic cup o brew and relax.
lol, looks like Sean G. is bumpin around makin new friends (as usual) Say what you want but you got to give the guy credit for rocking the golf gloves. Anyway, to the person above who said this is “so” not her scene, I would tell her to come check out the events before she makes that decision. The scene is full of creative, and talented people who may grab their crotch every now and then Seriously, just check them out b4 you write them off. And to “Greg” can’t we all just get along? that whole store beef crap is played out.
BG July 6, 2007
4:55 pm
I’m surprised at the “f*gg*t” comment and the response it got. I love PB and the positive attitude and I always agree when slanderous or hurtful comments are removed. Is the Rachel who commented “Now this is getting good” the Rachel who runs the website?
azpmg July 6, 2007
5:18 pm
Why can’t American men come to their senses and catch on to some style like this man? Red glasses are right on, and Hermes, I mean, come on. Fabulous.
MD July 6, 2007
6:45 pm
I am going to defend Rachel completely on this one. We are all adults and while some are expressing a certain level of klass that I can’t quite comprehend, we are still big girls and boys. Censorship is lame- plain and simple. Two silly boys smack talking each other’s fashionz don’t need removed…and as a gay man, I couldn’t care less if they say the F word – it simply castes them in a socio-economic class that I would avoid. I believe the “getting good” comment was in response to my Zoolander analogy not the badass blogging. Hopefully Sean isn’t the owner of the store? If so, he might benefit from a good publicist to clean up his messes.
Her hair is ubber nice, her skin is flawless and those brows are to die for.
Whatever@Jaja’s lame comment.
Joanna July 6, 2007
9:10 pm
He almost got it, but not quite right.
The trousers are too short–he looks a little clownish. The cuffs of his pants don’t even cover the back of his shoes.
The suded shoes look too hot and sticky for the 100 degree heat and 100% humidity of Washington DC.
Ummm, Joanna, the pants look short because he’s wearing them with loafers, not dress shoes. Most guys have dress pants tailored for what they’ll mostly wear with them as it’s the only economical option. Check the break.
The loafers are studded because they’re actually driving moccasins. Italian by Tod’s probably. The suede may be overmuch, but they are perfect for DC in the Summer.
For me, I’m not a fan or pleats, nor of cuffs, and it doesn’t look right to my eye to be wearing a tie and pants with belt fobs sans belt, but given this blog’s mission I think he fits the bill as her certainly stands out without being a caricature.
Ahh i love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Aye i kno those guys!!!!!!!!!!!!Kewl life!!!!!
S July 8, 2007
10:43 pm
Well, the socks match the glasses Joanna.
I’ll admit that he’s sporting a look not seen too often south of Nolita much less these parts, but he’d stike me as a Euro right away on the street because it’s exactly the look you’d see men carrying a Firenze after work.
That said, this town is too devoted to “the rules” and isn’t this blog supposed to get us away from that?
Z July 9, 2007
12:24 am
The red socks scream British. The Brits love their red and maroon socks for some reason. The man is much better dressed than most, but I still have a few issues.
His shirt doesn’t fit very well. A lot of excess material and the sleeves look several inches too long. He should visit his tailor on his trip back to England. Not to hard t get a nicely tailored shirt. He looks sloppy.
I love brown suede, especially with grey, but these shoes are a little too casual for his outfit. And I’m not sure if his pants have side tabs and no belt loops, but I think I can see belt loops. And if so, he needs a belt to match those brown suede shoes. If there are no loops and only side tabs, then he’s forgiven, but I don’t think that’s the case.
And his tie is driving me crazy. Sure, you can buy a Hermes tie, but it looks terrible if you don’t know how to wear it. Keep your shirt buttoned and your tie taught until you get home. He looks American when he loosens his ties. Don’t let it drop below your belt. Put a nice dimple in it. And I’m not sure I like the small patterns on the tie with the small patterns in the shirt. You need a little more contrast in patterns.
Don’t get me wrong, this man is doing much better than most. But, yikes, we’ve got a long way to go in this town.
nef July 9, 2007
6:07 am
love it.
jaja shut that shit up…
[nef]
Joanna July 9, 2007
2:20 pm
OK. I can learn. I will get used to this look. I might even start liking the red socks and brown suede shoes combination even in 100 degree and 100% humidity DC sauna, after I’ve gone heat shocked. And, I’ve also learned something valuable in my cultural awareness–that the British love red, and it has nothing to do with the Red Sox.
I have also come to the realization that I feel very bad for criticizing strangers who are dressed 200% better than I do on an ordinary day, and for what? For their taking risks with fashion and a sense of whim. What I do is awful, and it is not a personal attack on anyone. It’s just my humble opinion about what I prefer to see in fashion since we are on the topic.
If I could make one last comment about this look though before beating it to death, then here it is. This man looks and dresses like my first boyfriend, who’s from Sweden, and my second boyfriend’s father, who’s a dressmaker from Holland. This grown up “Tin Tin” carton character look frome Herge’s Cartoon Series, see http://tintin.francetv.fr/uk/ ) tends to be popular with the Western Europeans, it seems. Upon repeat analysis of what exactly is bothering me about this look, it is that I think it’s a little too much.
I believe that the element of surprise is a good thing to have in fashion. Red glasses and Red tie with a baby blue shirt look awesome: yes. The spiky silver hair with a charging smile look awesome: yes. But, when you mix all that with a pair of relaxed pants that stop at the ankles to show off a pair of crimson red socks, and brown suede shoes, it becomes a little too much for this Private Eye.
I think he would have looked more elegant in an understated, and gentlemanly way, if he had toned it down a bit from the belt down. Perhpas a gray pair of dress pants that cover all the way down, and a traditional color pair of socks and a more traditional pair of shoes would have been better. Traditional elements might have brought out more of the elements of surprise, as found in those tiny, round, and red glasses, the sexy smile, the red tie, the baby blue shirt, and that awesome hands-in-the-pockets stance.
One or two elements of surprise is good. 5-6 all on display simultaneously is ostentatious. You’ve seen the ladies who dress from head to toe in leopard/animal prints. Though this case isn’t nearly as bad as that, it is a lesser version of commiting that Capital Offenses of Fashion: Predictability.
I’m (southern) Virginian and wouldn’t really consider wearing anything BUT colored socks, even with suits. My conservative office mates think it’s tacky. This guy wears his clothes, he’s not just dressed in the uniform “the man” has said he has to be in.
Older men with red glasses have balls, and they’re the kinda guys I look up to. Color is good. So are spread collars and pants any length you like ‘em except maybe Thom Brown short.
Im The One On The Far Left.
We KILLED It.
C.R.E.A.M Team…Ask About Us.
MD July 9, 2007
9:52 pm
I want to hate it because 1) it looks like a muumuu from my Great Aunt Mary’s Christening Collection 2) because I believe H&M is one of the top 5 sins Jesus Christ died for but she truthfully looks quite lovely.
Foiled! Damn you, Rachel.
MD July 9, 2007
10:04 pm
Suede in the summer – of course! Some of my favorite summer kicks are suede. I live in John Varvatos mocs and driving loafers and both are summer-released suede. I also partake in Prada and Tod’summer suede slip-on drivers and tennis shoes. And for all the ladies who like ladies…don’t forget a W4W’s best friend – the notorious yet hardy Birkenstock. Last I checked, they were suede – okay, bad example but you get the point…
S July 9, 2007
11:19 pm
Nice post Joanna, and not too far off from my view. While I can respect his sense of style, it’s inelegant, (but I do think brown suede looks lush)and you have to make a call if you’re at a stage in your life where you want to say Cary Grant instead of James Dean and make strangers believe it…
And I think someone else makes a great point regarding the untailored shirt, as to me, what he’s sporting is a guy’s version of a muffin top.
Besides, why does he have the shirt tucked in at all given the total package? He’s sorta sporting a Euro version of a go-to-hell look, but isn’t ready to say it…
Did I just say that?
Kim July 10, 2007
12:01 am
Thanks for the compliments! And thank you Rachel, I wasn’t feeling cute that day till you stopped me… (kim)
Emebet July 10, 2007
7:43 am
It’s simple, elegant and classy. Love it! Is he gorgeous or what!!! She looks fabulous.
I don’t think she meant to be lame with her comment. As a Black woman with natural hair, I think what Jaja meant is that the young lady in the picture really hadn’t done anything “fun” with her hair – it’s just the natural texture of her hair. It’s just the way her hair is. I get complimented a lot on my hair, which I appreciate, but people always ask things like “How did you get it to do that?” and I’m always confused. Umm … I washed it, put some leave-in conditioner in it and kept it moving. Nothing extraordinary.
pink and brown is one of my favorite color-combos. That said, her jewelry is gaudy and gross and it totally kills an otherwise sweet outfit. The shoes are a miss, as well.
the shorts and fuschia look pretty good… but, people sorta need to chill with the fake “gold chain from the ’80s” look.
I think she is doing it well, and looks less than serious about it…so it looks fun.
However, if you are trying to “keep it real”, and are going to rock a gold chain of that size, it needs to be different than the braided rope style available on ebay for $49, at Ricky’s costume shops in NY/NJ for $69.
And it should, preferably, be REAL.
Much more unique costume/gold plated links can be had at Intermix. approx $200-$400
which look super banging on the ladies AND the gents.
I’d give her an E for effort on the Gizzold, and she looks like she is havin fun so it’s all good.
OCCaliAKA July 10, 2007
4:05 pm
I would have put a darker shoe with the outfit. But that blouse is damn near perfection. Brown skin tones just pop with bright color.
Can someone explain the appeal of the very long, tight shirt under the very short over-shirt? I don’t get it and I think it looks ugly. I love the vintage top and the sandals. The rest? Blah.
i keep coming across europeans who just do effortless chic, just that, effortlessly!
Ann July 11, 2007
10:19 am
I aspire to exhibit the effortles chic look! I think that is the only way to show your true style and individuality. If you have that goal in mind it’s easy to end up with a cohesive look.
Also…I want her legs. I will NEVER have them but i’m pretty sure they’d look great on me.
Oh, and I really like the long shirt under a shorter top. I think it emphasizes the smallest part of the torso plus it allows you have the comfort and coverage of a longer shirt.
Love the printed blouse, love the hair, and double love how great her face looks with just the bare minimum makeup, but um, what is that flap of fabric behind her right cheek? Did she cut her cutoffs asymmetrically on purpose?
themcee July 11, 2007
11:53 am
This is what goes for fashionable these days?
no hate…but i really don’t see why the 80’s is TRYING to come back with such a vengance…
*sigh*
S July 11, 2007
12:09 pm
Gawd, I so want to go back to Italy. They carry themselves so effortlessly.
I think the flap in the back is what’s left of what’s around her waist?
C July 11, 2007
12:34 pm
Those sandals are exactly what I have been searching high and low for in the US. That is so not fair.
Italian girls really do have the best sense of style.
Love the top, but I can’t stand jean shorts. They just bring back painful memories of 6th grade and I refuse to allow them back in to my wardrobe or the wardrobes of those I love. Love her hair!
I sincerely hope that she doesn’t think Sbarro is all of the “Italian” food that DC has to offer. Send this woman to 2 Amy’s!
I think the “flap” may be a shopping bag that’s hanging off her elbow?
rachel July 11, 2007
1:00 pm
I want her legs too. Damn.
Yeah–the flap is a plastic shopping bag hanging from the crook of her arm, you can just barely see the handle…
T-fab July 11, 2007
2:42 pm
How I long for thighs that don’t touch. I was in my fab bikini the other day thinking, “am I trying to send smoke signals?” There is no need for that!!!
Ya’ll are too caught up on names and authenticity. Are the shoes good-looking, regardless of who makes them? YES. Those are super fresh I’m going to go try to find some. He needs to ditch the parachute pants though.
I’m totally cutting off my fit-me-perfectly-but-I-can’t-rock-bootcut-anymore jeans as soon as I get home from work tonight. Tres inspiring. Thanks!
MD July 12, 2007
3:11 pm
Terrible! Terrible! Did I mention, terrible?
This is so awful I can’t even come up with anything entertaining to post. Why is it that black women can wear these absolutely horrendous church get-ups and tacky hats and it is considered charming? You know if a white woman wore this we’d all laugh and/or gag…i think it is insulting to black people that we hold them to a lower standard – I don’t, thus my outrage at this picture. It’s like the Southern “bless their heart” rule for softcore mocking. Doesn’t this black woman look dolled up for church, “bless her heart.”
And the nose ring? Really? Ummm, sista! 1991 called and said that Avril Lavigne is missing her accessories. I can’t.
MD July 12, 2007
3:14 pm
I think this outfit was saved by what I belive to be Tory Burch flats. She was “this” close to lesbian but the flats and perhaps the bag saved the day.
Candice July 12, 2007
3:40 pm
LOVE IT.
Classy and stylish. Complemented by a lovely tan.
Tan!? Ha! Are you serious? You must be from Kalorama…she is black, not back from St. Croix for the summer.
Richard Reid July 13, 2007
4:33 am
I thought it was a man in drag!!
paul July 13, 2007
11:37 am
MD, you’re so wrong and so provincial (maybe high rent district provincial, but provincial none the less). This is part of southern culture, and it’s unique, authentic, and cool. Would I wear it? No. But does she wear it with style and authority? Absolutely Yes. As Rachel so often says, confidence in yourself is the best accessory.
paul July 13, 2007
11:48 am
She’s pretty cute, but isn’t that bag a bit too big and bulky for the rather spare look? I’d say trim it down to no wider than the handles, and about half as tall. She’d look great eating roasted oysters and drinking champagne by the river on a warm summer evening (with the bag in her car).
MD you know too much for your own good. You came out of the closet and landed firmly in the box. Get out of the box!
Just because something is part of a culture doesn’t necessarily make it attractive or flattering.
Confidence in yourself and in your style only goes so far, a fact I’m reminded of every time I see Helena Bonham Carter, Leelee Sobieski or Bai Ling on the red carpet.
Someone else who drinks Irish whiskey for dinner! Mmmm, sometimes I like a dessert of Johnnie Walker Black too. In fact, I think it’s on the menu for me tonight…
I have to agree with Paul. I am not much of a hat wearer myself and I’m not a huge fan of nose rings, but “church hats” and getting dressed up for church are serious parts of our culture. As a child, I remember being in awe at all of the beautiful hats adorning the women at church and I still love to see that, even as an adult.
I think she looks fabulous.
Janedoe July 13, 2007
3:03 pm
Have you ever looked at the hats that British women wear or did you check out the post on the Gold Cup?
It is unfortunate that you are so ignorant. You might want to think about things before you write them for the world to read.
BS July 13, 2007
3:39 pm
An Italian with a Sbarro cup = whatthe?????
MD July 13, 2007
4:57 pm
Ummmmmm Janedoe? Maybe you are the ignorant one…Gold Cup is for F-U-N. I’m going to let it slide because I’ll assume you have never attended. It is a day to wear the most over-the-top hats and clothes you can find – for fun not for fashion!
As far as the little kids in church being mesmerized by these wacky chapeaus…you just proved my point. As a child I liked anything sparkly, colorful, or shiny – all of which turn out to be tragic as you get older.
And Paul…I hope you wouldn’t wear it or we have another set of issues to cover. The point is, it doesn’t look good. I have seen Southern women decked out in outrageous garb and looking just fine – she is not one of them. And I dare you to compare her style to the UK in front of a Brit. My guess, is you’ll get some hot tea in the eye and swift kick in the arse.
I maintain my plea of TACKY and Terrible!
MD July 13, 2007
5:07 pm
Paul…my friend,
You don’t know me. I don’t hang with “the gays,” I don’t go to Pride Parades, and you and I will NEVER hang in the same social circle. I promise – N-E-V-E-R. You wouldn’t make it one weekend. I know a lot about fashion, pop culture, music, and mass media – it is, what I do for a living. I live it all week long as do many of my straight male colleagues.
Though I do appreciate your attempt to raise your profile by attacking me…good luck with that tactic and if I ever need a hook-up at Universal Gear, I’ll ask for you.
MD July 13, 2007
5:31 pm
Oh and Paul- thanks for the three dollar vocab word – provincial. We all know you you can use a thesaurus now…that really made you seem one with the people.
I am anything but a conformist but I know when something is aesthetically pleasing. Paul – that means “pleasing to the eye” or “pretty to look at.” Didn’t want you to have to reference Webster again.
his coworkers and friends;-) July 13, 2007
7:16 pm
The Silver Fox is in a league of his own. His fashion audacity and willingness to go the way of Roddy Carstairs leads us to believe that he is a one of a kind and bringing that kind of umph Stateside. Remember, this guy works in an ACCOUNTING FIRM – the bar is set fairly low. God bless the fashion sense of an unbowed maverick. He’s PwC’s Beckham (Posh Spice eat your heart out).
kristin July 15, 2007
12:04 pm
hey that’s me. i’m from maryland not italy. and my sandals are michael kors
If a certain kind of garment or accessory isn’t your cup of tea, that’s fine. We all have our differences. But to declare something of another culture to be “wacky” or “horrendous” just because you don’t agree with it is borderline self-righteous.
As for church hats specifically, there is a deep history behind the reason why you’ll see crowds of them on Sunday morning. A book called “Crowns” touches on that history. More info is available in this NPR feature: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=876404
What I love about this site is that Rachel features people from all walks of life and appreciates the way different people express themselves. Heck, that’s what I love about this city in general. But it saddens me to read these disparaging comments, because those who throw them are trivializing the cherished history and culture of other people without even knowing it.
rachel July 15, 2007
10:13 pm
Kristin,
Ohmygod that’s so funny. I must’ve confused you with the two girls I took a pic of right after you (and posted on Friday–now I remember…they were the students). I *think* you said that the yellow patterned top was from Italy though, right? That must’ve been where I got off track.
BS–That crossed my mind as well. Should’ve realized my mistake from that alone.
rdhd July 16, 2007
9:52 am
That photo is at the same time both hilarious and sad. Nice catch.
-rdhd
rachel July 16, 2007
10:51 am
I think it’s interesting that many commenters complimented her effortless style as one that’s singularly Italian.
Would the same things been said had I not identified her as Italian? Do we romanticize the looks/styles of those from other countries?
My favorite is the DC intern version — trade the shoes for flip-flops and bag for backpack. So glam! ; )
MD July 16, 2007
11:54 am
I don’t care if you like my comments or not…or if there is history behind church hats. I think they are ugly – well, atleast this one. There is also history behind binding women’s feet in Asia and stretching necks and ear lobes in Africa, and I think it is all gross – get over yourselves. The mullet (hairstyle) actually dates back to ancient Egypt, where it protected slaves’ necks from the hot sun – but I ain’t budging on my anti-mullet policy. Sorry Charlies.
But, seriously, I bet they’re really nice, very accomplished guys who are totally confident in the way they’re dressed (”a messenger bag is gobs more grown-up than a backpack!”), so the all-sorts-of-boring going on here shouldn’t matter, right?
The white dress is indeed wonderful, but the best part of both ensembles, in my opinion, is the set of perfectly sculpted arms on lady-left.
rdhd July 16, 2007
5:41 pm
But here’s a question: do they carry men’s wear? Most places, if they have men’s wear at all, only seem to have a few ratty old bowling shirts and some crap from the 70s.
-rdhd
rachel July 16, 2007
6:26 pm
rdhd–
I just spoke with Mercedes. Yes, they do, but she admits that it’s limited. She told me about some Schiaparelli and men’s Vera Wang items. Mercedes Bien stuff can sometimes veer towards the costumy, so who knows how wearable you might find her men’s selection.
I am beginning to notice, esp. through The Satorialist the brown shoe + red sock
E July 17, 2007
1:11 pm
He looks really snazzy.
I’d recommend not D.C. — too busy, too backed up, too costly. Everyone has a getaway, so take them there.
guy July 17, 2007
1:23 pm
But did he forget the pants? The taper seems off in relation to the jacket arm length…a little unbalanced. Good to show cuff though, this is how it should be done uptop.
Re: Benetton-their materials seem a little hot since they’re typically poly-blends. A light wool or cotton might work better for DC humidity, at an even better price somewhere like Zara or H&M.
guy July 17, 2007
1:32 pm
Come on, they’re guys. Most of us don’t think about things the way a “fashiony” woman might. It’s easy to put on a blue shirt and khakis; that’s why I wear suits. Go out on a limb (red socks, brown sued loafers, red glasses) and people deride you for that too. There’s no winning.
Lots of American men outside of NY and LA can be pretty boring style wise. My only complaint is the lack of attention to shoes, this preoccupation with Pilgrim footwear.
Overall though, a lot of men are more interested in career, attaining “stuff”, watching/playing sports, and getting a nice, attractive partner to share life with. Clothing is secondary. If not, there’s the question of “Are you gay?” Even a woman writing in a recent Men’s Vogue commented that she doesn’t like a man to spend more than 7 minutes getting dressed. How much pressure is THAT? It takes me that long to iron a shirt. Thus, we keep it simple.
rdhd July 17, 2007
3:08 pm
There’s a lot good to say about this outfit (he’s daring, he clearly has a style), but his pants look like they’re a couple inches too long.
I’m all about proportions and if you’re going to wear your sleeves so short, it should be part of an ensemble that includes tapered and short pant legs too.
I take the Metro up to London Custom Tailor in Bethesda who has done AMAZING things with my jackets (not so great with trousers oddly–maybe a language issue).
Now I want it a few degrees cooler and a little less humid so I can pull out a suit. I’m inspired.
rdhd
rdhd July 17, 2007
3:12 pm
Guy,
I feel for you. Some days it does seem like there’s no winning. That’s why you tell ‘em all to go to hell and wear what you want.
Follow the “silver fox’s” lead and wear red glasses. Wear a boutonniere, wear multiple patterns. Someone will complain that *something* isn’t right–ignore them.
Just don’t go for the easy out to avoid the comment.
i agree with the other commenters..skinny up the pants a bit!! ..
but he does look sharp..loove the cuffs… and Do’s is great..ive used em forever..
there is another good one..waaaay out in centerville va..(so sue me..im short ill drive any distance for a great tailor!) Lee’s in centerville square!!!
xoxo
I commend his effort. Suiting it up in 95-degree weather is not for the fashion weary. But I do agree that his jacket is much more fitted than his saggy trousers giving him an unpolished look.
If there ever was a male style icon in this city it would surely be K Street’s now-infamous Silver Fox.
But truth be told, following his lead – or *trying* to follow his lead, rather – would be a no-win endeavor, for he’s the Frank Dux of DC’s male-fashion Kumite: you know he’s gonna win even before you size up his competition.
Sweet jacket — i need me one of them
Rachel-
The site looks great! Congrats…
The last three pics on this post are of Nick, the Australian – he helped in the starting of the cafe at Rugby in G-town…
People look their best when they feel natural. This guy looks how he must feel.
Unless you have a stunted torso, Ann Taylor is a fact of life, much like Blair, Tootie and the inevitable return of tight ankle jeans every 10 years (at least the stonewash bowties/zippers didn’t come back with them this time). Much like female Brooks Brothers, Ann Taylor is a decent place for baby shower basics. Like a predictable batch of roses for valentines, AT always flaunts Red for holidays, naval theme for fall, yellow for spring and flower patterns/bows for every day of the week…thrilling and exotic, no, but dependable, indeed. Kind of like dating a Republican… (i jest.)
Rachel – The blog is outstanding. Your style and tone are really fantastic. Love the study thus far.
When I first moved to DC, I bought a beautiful pink lady coat from Banana Republic. I thought it would be such a great standout piece among all of the black suits on Capitol Hill. So you can imagine my surprise when I saw like twelve other girls on the metro wearing the same exact coat. I’m not faulting Ann Taylor, but the mass consumption of it and it’s trendier counterpart, Ann Taylor Loft, produces an army of women dressed in the same pink coat. All trendy and “unique” but in the exact same way.
I can definitely appreciate the fashion sense of a woman who can pick a ubiquitous item and make it her own, but it seems that the women shopping at Ann Taylor Loft are trying to mix with the masses.
Congrats on a new blog and THANKS! DC needs a friendly fashion blog like yours. I have to agree with Carrie, Ann Taylor is a DC staple for the basics – as boring as it may sound. But some women are able to pull it off so well with the help of fun accessories – you can’t help but be surprised when they tell you it’s an AT piece. Sometimes the basics are needed to look put together… Kitty, pot is on the phone – she wants her AT pieces you are wearing back!
Cydwoq. Like “sidewalk.” That’s the brand of shoe.
YES!!
( :
Yes I love the outfit actually all of her outfits………Your doing a great job great website………..
Rachel, you have angered the Chico’s mannequins.
And of course, Ann Taylor may not be unique on its own, but plenty of women combine it with accessories and other items to create interesting looks. Anyone can put on Marni and feel fashionable, but it takes some creativity to play up your Ann Taylor.
And you’re off to a great start with the blog. It’s a blast to read.
Love this guy! Love your blog!
Love how you are doing the Sartorialist thing here in DC. Keep it up, you are a welcome addition to the DC blogosphere!
I love this man!
He brightens my day. I want to give him a hug.
Love the dark coat….actually love the whole look….she is a cutie
Oh Rachel boo I look forward to Tunde’s outfits
but I understand things happen…..Have fun at the luncheon and can’t wait to see what you have for us tomorrow…………your doing a great job……….
I looooove these shoes. I feel like they’d be great for work, going out, going shopping. I do love an all around great shoe!
Capris in winter are ill-advised. Cute shoes tho.
Hey, I love your blog.
Great idea trying to inject some fashion into the DC world.
And, Ilove this outfit (accessories are SPOT on) but there is no way in hell I could wear jeans that tight (or jeans AT ALL) to the office, let alone let a superior see a little sliver of my stomach like that.
That would get me sent home in a heartbeat.
Megyn Kelly is absoultly beautiful whatever she is wearing. I have watched her for the longest time on Fox and she is gorgeous. She looks wonderful in this outfit. I wish her well in New York and hope to watch her in the future. Again Rachel great job…….
Wow she looks great as usual……love the look…..she will turn a lot of heads this weekend for sure………..
Love the shoes!!!
I think we’ve had enough of Tunde Turcsik! Is there anybody else you’ve shot? Love the blog but this is getting a bit much.
Correct me if I’m wrong, but wasn’t this a segment where you follow someone around for a week and then move on?
Looks like 7 days was perfect – people want to see more on the 7th day!
Keep it up Rachel!
Rachel you can follow her around forever….
she has great taste and is gorgeous….keep up the great work………..
Love the shoes yes but love the casual look…….also love the pose…………
Here’s mom, bro, and me in our winter gear lots of years ago:
http://flickr.com/photos/friedapplepie/66632039/
Loving the blog!
j
Rachel, you and Brenna were adorable in those dresses with big white collars. And you know it! Love,Mom
pimp
I love this outfit! (Love all of her outfits, actually) she has great style. Your idea of following someone for a week is great. Is this going to be a standard feature? I hope so!
is this a ladies’ coat?
I like both coats but number 2 a little better
because I love the scarf she has with it. A great combo…..she’s also a cutie……….
I hang out at Wonderland a lot and yes, the chick bartenders are a**holes.
That girl needs wood hangers. Someone tell her please that plastic hangers and the few wire ones I see there are totally not acceptable. And clothes in dry cleaning bags? Ugh.
Well, I think this post just proved that D.C. not only lacks in fashion creativity but has very very ugly people too. Very ugly.
don’t forget the smocked dresses (which were FAB–can you believe she spent that much time making those?!?) and the matching hawaiian outfits from gap–you had turquoise and i had hot pink. i believe bubble skirts were involved.
Wooden hangers only? LOL. Oh please, get a life!
it’s a man’s jacket
the 18k gold hand made dragon charm is one of a kind
i’m not pimping (TODAY!!)
JUST CELEBRATING MY BIRTHDAY
RAYMOND
This was a fabulous set of posts. She is very stylish! I’d love to see some more week-long posts of both men and women, especially what some of the respectable fashionistas on the Hill are up to!
Glad to hear you got your card back but sorry to hear it was so lame when you went back! I was soooo psyched for the music they were playing on Saturday night! Any place that plays ‘I Can’t Wait’ and ‘Cold-hearted Snake’ in the same night is pretty much my idea of heaven! Even if that makes me a poser
Rach, your mom is right. Y’all were at the apex of playground chic back then! Plus…it’s leggings now…betcha it will be stirrup pants before 2007 is over!
Rach that bag says it all….no other comment is needed…..it’s great………
Moweena in her yellow coat! Shes my daily fashion inspiration.
Love the coat…actually love the whole look scarf,glasses……….she has it together………
A perfect “CAT DADDY”. Purely classic. I know that your birthday was a blast.
J. Ingram
Can someone send out a memo? The oversized movie-star sunglasses are done. Toss them into the same box with your uggs and throw the whole thing out. Ugly ugly ugly.
I think it’s a great look. The jacket is fantastic. I need to get a good trench for Spring. I’ve got a couple, but not khaki.
very hot and sexy; you look good enough to eat…
I think it was just the cut of the gown…or perhaps she’s pregnant…but I did notice that her boobs looked huge in that dress.
I actually kind of liked Meryl Streep’s – it was the accesorizing where it all went haywire. Jessica Biel’s wasn’t event-appropriate, but it was an all right dress. Kirsten’s was too busy, but it wasn’t awful…whereas Anne Hathaway, who usually has admirable style…ugh. That bow! The BOW!
Jessica Biel looked gorgeous in her dress………I don’t think anything is out of style at the Oscars even tho some look hideous………..
I’m sorry I know people love the Penelope Cruz dress but I hated it!!! The skirt looks like a blanket my roommate bought from Wal-Mart! Reese is hands down the best dressed.
wow Katherine Kennedy is stunning……what an outfit. Mom and daughter definately hot….great outfits………
rach! i have been looking at your blog of course and noticed this picture. i almost died because i know him! anyway, i love the blog, keep up the good work and i’ll keep reading:) hope all is well
Last photo is actually Loving’s biz partner Ayo (Ayodamola Okunseinde), I think.
Southerner, you are totally right, and I just fixed it. In fact, I made the mistake of asking if he was Adrian (the card has both of their names). And he said he was Ayo, “the good-looking one!”
–Rachel
Love the little shoe boots in the second pic… very sexy….
I can’t imagine those shoes being comfortable in the last pic but they are interesting tho….
That looks like Ali Wentworth – George Stephanopolous’s wife, third picture down in the blue necklace.
Anon–yes, that is Ali Wentworth! She was checking out a gorgeous dress at the Muleh booth. However, she spent most of her time helping her sister Sissy Yates sell her line of jewelry.
Great pics Rachel you did a great job…….the place looked packed………some great outfits and good looking people as well……keep it up………..
Too bad it was less a sample sale and more a Winter clearing house.
Interesting . . . my “swag” bag contained only a “sample sale” t-shirt, two SOME brochures, and a plastic pen! And I brought a great gift too . . .
It looks like it was made out of squirrels.
boo on the commenters at DCist. Next someone will have to start a blog trying to prove to the world that the population of DC consists of more than just negative close-minded judgmental types in need of a snark outlet.
Hey! I LOVE your blog!!! I look fashion section of daily candy a lot, but it doesn’t give nearly as much information, or details as you do! It’s so cool to know that DC is actually going somewhere with fashion. I look forward to future entries!!
please tell me the phillip lim dresses taht i’ve been coveting at muleh were still exorbitantly expensive. please.
Colleen–
Yes. They were. Sigh!
if it weren’t for the bag, i’d say he’s dressed like a 10 year old. why do adults think dressing like retarded kids is okay? he looks like a shitty dj on his way to a dungeons and dragons session.
Thanks Rachel for all of your support! Your pictures are fantastic!!!
xoxo
Wow…it must have been crappy comment day on the DCist…my head was torn off for photo of the day.
You are doing fine. It was great meeting you at Lucky Bar!
hot.
Those Varvatos shirts are totally fab. I’m a gal and got two of them in olive for myself — at a mere $22.50 per shirt by the time I bought them late in the sale!!
looking good pa!
Hi Rachel I missed you yesterday
and was wondering what happened to the site.
Glad your back today………
Yikes! Your web site is decent, in theory, but you really need to stop ripping off pretty much every single thing the satorialist does.
…really?! I feel like this blog’s content is very Washingtonian. The Sartorialist has New Yorkers (but more recently the Milan & Paris shows) to snap, who look very different from Washingtonians, and he hardly ever takes pictures out at events or bars. As for using the words “On the Street”–you could just as easily say that Sart copies Bill Cunningham, the New York Times photographer/writer who captures trends on NYC streets.
HAHAH people who comment like that are so cool. i mean, seriously…i DON’T hear enough bitching, complaining and all out nastiness in my life…and i’m sure a lot of people feel that way. thats why i’m so happy these selfless souls take the time to share their bitching and griping! because yes, we TRUELY care about whatever it is they DON’T like.
*end sarcasm*
love you, love the blog and the post on the dcist.
Very cute look……love the boots……….
Um, she’s wearing NUDE stockings. Since when did that come back? And no, those boots are neither “cute” nor “fashiony”. God DC people suck ass.
wow the gals in DC are good lookin..especially the 2 in pic 2…….
Sorry to hear that the bartender was such a snatch. But I have to tell this story, because it is one of the nicest surprises I ever got. I once left my entire wallet there after getting horribly, embarassingly plastered. Not only did the bartender (Matt?) call me the next morning to tell me that they had it, but when I went back, my wallet was secure in the register with not a single dollar missing.
Your blog is great. I’ll be back often.
NO NO NO.
this is so wrong.
i’ll keep reading, because i like what you’re doing. just use some different headlines. i read your entry “that hair” and all i could think of was the sartorialist with every other entry.
people were a bit harsh, but I thought it was a nice change from the usual posts. keep it up!
prrrr…
looove this look, the fit is so flattering and girly, i just think it needs a big splash of color somewhere, the bag or some jewlery.
but i’m pretty sure if i saw this on the street, i would hijack her outfit…and her coffee
Rach it was very good…….keep up the great work I enjoy what you do………
so sorry, but i think this look is totally frumpy and unflattering and hideous! poor thing — she’s a cute girl, but she needs to lose the anorak, nude pantyhose, and ankle boots!
this girl’s look is soooo cute and spring-y! i especially love her handbag and flats.
adorable! i normally hate jeans tucked into boots, but she pulls this off quite well. i like how the colors in the belt match her boots.
Oh my gosh, now I’m really regretting going home to sleep instead of attending. Those shoes are GORGEOUS!
Your blog is great!
Those black pumps with the lace-ruffle trim were absolutely MADE for me. Please tell me they’re less expensive than my other I-would-risk-my-rent-check-not-clearing obsesssion: the Louboutian moon bow peep-toes (http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/22521).
Love your site, by the way!
Johanna–
I think with the exchange between the euro and the dollar, the Gigi Favela shoes are deeefinitely less expensive. And beyond that, the Gigi Favelas are way cuter, I think. Plus–they’re unique…having something very few other people have or know about it worth every penny.
A good point, Rachel.
Unique *is* good, especially in this city
Since I’ve already been planning which patterned tights and high-waisted pencil skirts I’d wear my pair of Gigi’s, I better head over to Unsung and get them before they’re gone!
actually it only takes about 15 minutes!
i think it’s SUCH a good idea that she makes shoes in so many different heel hieghts. as we’ve discussed so many times before, it’s all about the angle when it comes to finding a comfy shoe. these shoes are porn, rach
love Mia’s bright outfit……..she is very pretty…….
I really wanted to attend this event and I am so glad to hear it was fun. I will be sure to go to the next one! Thanks for the report, Rachel. The blog is excellent.
love the gal with blond hair,white shirt and short jacket, great combo……also the gal with the brown hair,lite blue jacket,short skirt,dark nylons,great shoes and great legs.
Very diverse group of people and styles…..
you took the same pictures as pandahead. be original.
i wish people would stop wearing small children’s footwear.
Lisa–
I’m not allowed to go to the same events pandahead *might* go to? I didn’t know that pandahead had taken pictures (believe it or not, I don’t check her site every day nor do I intentionally copy her). She posted hers first. Wow.
Relax girlfriend!
I love the girl’s make-up in the first pic. Very von Teese!
Whose pants? There are no pants in the picture. They all look pretty stylish though!
Yo, who is that chick in the plaid???? Wow!
Um, I think she forgot to put on her pants.
I love black and brown together. It’s so french. I do agree that her tunic is a bit short to just be wearing with tights, but she looks cute.
her boots are a little off for the outfit. also, the over the shoulder shirts are “soooo three years ago”, not to mention being way too short. and she done forgot her pantaloons. have a nice day!
It’s not so much that it sucks that you took some of the same pictures (that just means that those people obviously looked REALLY good that night) It’s just that the whole “project beltway experience” is just a shoot-off of a more original idea.
Can I purchase those eyebrows somewhere?!
I love her work. I just wish she was in better and more stores. I hope your blog will get the word out!
I’ll alert everyone who keeps a blog discussing their opinions, personal experiences and views on politics that they suck because they aren’t original.
Anyway, I definitely want to be there next time they have this event.
Great blog, Rachel!
Yeah and you erase any blogs that critize the fashion YOU choose. Typical DC blogger narcissim that can’t take the heat. Get a life.
Lisa,
I don’t know if you have heard of this beautiful, expansive technology called the internet where the free flowing of similar and unique ideas are permitted?
Now, I’m no hipster by any means … and as much as I love pandaheads pictures of really cool kids that sit at Tryst writing poetry, listening to the Shins and have awesome jobs at the local Starbucks… (which I might add is REALLY original) I think Rachel has a bit of a different take on DC fashion. Now, I’m sure you went to a really important liberal arts college and have an important degree in art history, but I think you might be a little off base.
Other than that … I think you make a great point … oh wait, no, no I don’t.
These girls are a hot mess. They look dirty, sloppy, and unaware. Sorry Rachel, but you missed this time. Their clothing is completely unflattering. Their sad attempts to be individuals result in ugly that is only magnified by the power of three.
I like the girl in the middle’s hair. What is up with all of the haters? It’s not really my style, but typical hipster wear.
i like the bag of the one on OUR left
and the boots
Not Hating…just honesty. This blog is supposed to dispel the notion that DC is unstylish but this picture is a mess. This is NOT typical hipster wear…it could easily be found at earthy coffee shops around the country or in pottery studios at art institutes but it is certainly not worthy of praise…not because the look is bad in theory but because the execution is pathetic and unflattering.
That comment makes me ill. I hate the word “hipster” and all that bullshit and angst some people attach to it, but who you perceive as a fucking hipster is probably not who they are. If you get the chance to look at INTERNATIONAL fashion, you will see that many of these people that you call hipsters are, in fact, interested in european style and trends. It doesn’t mean that they work at Starbucks (how dare you!) or act a certain way. If you saw me walking down the street, you might want to tell me to brew you up a nice cafe late with extra foam, but i have a corporate job (gasp!) and friends from every walk of life. So before you go pointing your shit-stained fingers, please recognize that just because someone looks a certain way doesn’t mean the ARE a certain way. Jesus. I’m so tired of this! And yes, I am completely aware of the first amendment and our freedom of speech on the world wide web, but if you are going to do something that blatently knocks off something else, at least make it good. In closing, and slightly off subject (but, essentially, it really isn’t) if being a hipster means looking stylish and listening to music which isn’t mainstream and overproduced, writing great literary works, producing great works of art and DOING something to actually shift the world’s point of view a tiny bit, then i am proud of who i am. But don’t call me a fucking hipster. I got a little defensive, but if I don’t defend myself, who will.
Last comment ever. Bye-bye, Project Beltway.
whoa. I don’t mean to get into it, at all, but wanted to point out that there are style blogs all over–from Japan to Helsinki, literally–and many have been around longer than either pandahead or project beltway. So it’s not like this was either’s “original” idea.
Amazing! Tucker Carlson’s pappy, Tara Conner’s cousin; Ms. Dundalk, and Diane Keaton in our fait city. Very stylish.
H&M’s pants make me want to rip off the lower half of my body and start from scratch!ughgggh. i love this purple dress at the bottom here!
very simply and springy look..also looks very comfy……..
love the flats!!
I think their dresses are cute, but the boots are probably a miss.
Ok- thank you. This is noteworthy…Not certain that Gucci actually makes that bag but she looks cute. Outfit is great, proportions are risky but work, and the entire look is flattering. My only complaint is if the bag is a fake I would encourage her to use her obvious sense of style to find a purse that is hip- not because it has a signature logo but because it is cute.
wow love the whole look……she is gorgeous
and has a great shape. this outfit shows off her great legs……..
She’s pretty and looks good…but I’m sorry, where are her pants?
Those boots remind me of a pair I had in 1984. Ugh. Ugg?
I’m flattered that the outfit peiced together so well. Despite common belief, Gucci does make that bag. It is called the Abbey Medium.
Getting a “legg up” in D.C. means wearing things out of the ordinary, bags maybe not so common in generic shape but standard print.
Be fabulous!
Great! I was not insinuating that the bag was definitely fake but was unfamiliar that style. Anyhow…great look, pretty girl, and perfect execution. Keep it up…we need it!
Wow! HEEEEELLLLLOOOO people! The “miss” here is NOT the boots. It is the cut and proportions of the dress. The dress and the boots are actually cute and fun. The dress hits her in all the wrong places and probably adds 15 lbs to her. These shapeless dresses that are all the rage right now are actually very elitist. You can’t have boobs, curves, a waist, no waist, etc. They only look good on tall, flat, thin women. Belting is the right idea but this execution is poor. The belt hangling loosely accentuates her thickest area and shrinks her chest.
Other girl- boring and a bit juvenile. The offbeat shoe color only works when it is actually “offbeat.” By incorporating a shade of her cardigan she has actually clashed rather than made a statement.
No insult taken! Stop by for a drink or two. Where some risky trends, and aspiring fashion designers gather. Aside from the generic leggings-trend, and patented toed pump… there are always out of towners willing to share the newest wave of fashion from their hometown.
DC’s conservative style is slowly fading out.
Tunic could be a bit longer but in theory a fantastic look….maybe try leggings instead of tights. Boots are “dead on” for the outfit and the wide neck tunic is not “soooo three years ago.” It is actually quite now.
The look is only perfected by the tightly pulled back hair. I would love to see an oversized slouchy shoulder bag (leather) with this…maybe camel or taupe or even a bold color.
^^ GT March, your analysis in these past few posts has been dead-on!
They look cute. Don’t really see the need to call them “pathetic,” seeing as they’re poor art students who are probably too cool to give a shit what angry snobs like GT think anyway…
I’ve been to that store too. I wonder how she stays in business. She is so rude and bizarre. The other store sounds cute. I’m still very bummed that they closed A La Leila. It was such a cute boutique. I’ll have to head down to Old Town to check out Diva.
Rachel another great pic…love the white shirt and tight jeans……very cool look..
also cute gal…….
love the shoes..I would love to see a nice pair of legs in them…….
Totally, totally kewl!
Great pics.
I have some things there. They’re great and have some great finds! American in Paris is very odd – I haven’t been back since you practically felt me up.
Whoops!!! I meant since “she” practically felt me up. Surfing blogs w. stolis clearly don’t mix..
cute shoes. your website is wonderful–keep up the good work!
The only thing “right” about this is the coat. Jeans, shirt, and glasses really don’t do anything and are actually dated..and not in a good vintage way.
This is proof positive that investing either time or money in pieces like coats, bags, and shoes is worthwhile- the outfit is kind of lame but the coat saves the day.
I don’t even know what to say…more power to him for being “him” but another time that you’ve featured someone just for being weird or offbeat. I really don’t see fashion here…not because there are any missing labels but because it’s not really visually appealing and the proportions and haircut don’t actually add to his look, rather they detract. He is a cute guy but the mohawk makes his ears look big, the scarf is just kind of silly. Cool if he feels comfortable with this look but I just don’t understand what your point is…
I agree with GT. That coat begs for black skinny jeans (though I’m not sure how that style would look on *her*), some cute t-strap flats and maybe a pouf-sleeved Ella Moss-type tee in a bright color like poppy or royal blue. Those glasses need to be vamoosed, too. Nicole Richie she’s not.
Love that the buttons are covered with the same material as the coat!
I just got here, and I’ve already decided… you rock.
And I’m going to the Corcoran later this week just because of that suit.
Yes she is pretty. Yes that smile would stop traffic. Yes the bag is stylish, but jean and a black shirt really doesn’t OVERTURN the fashion world. And the cheap boots. no. She’s pulling it off, but your photographers need to get out more.
she is gorgeous…..and what a body..there is nothing more to say..
Everything works! Not risky but effective and a pretty girl. I don’t care how much the boots, bag, etc. cost- they are worn correctly and she looks hot.
Im in the last pic blue shirt, I loved your article and the pics. Maybe next time i can get a close up. Thanks
-Mike M
Oooh! Now he looks good!
Rachel, I really really want to like you and I really really want to like your site. But every entry just drives home the point to me that you don’t really have a handle on what makes good fashion. Your biggest weak spot seems to be your utter lack of a design sense and that is key to good fashion.
Yes, the bag is great and the scarf is great and the hoodie is great. But together? Ugh. There’s absolutely no cohesion between the various pieces, and thus there is no total look. All of the pieces have bright patterns, but there’s no palette and no discernible theme to this look. The yellow in the scarf is disjointed against the brighter red in the hoodie. The pink and blue in the bag clash against the more muted colors in the scarf and hoodie. The white scarf as a canvas for the floral pattern is jarring against the beige canvas for the hoodie pattern. Every element just seems to work against every other element.
I would chalk this up to just a lapse, but I haven’t seem a single selection by you that did not miss the point when it comes to good design. It’s not enough to know the names on the labels, you have to be able to harmoniously match the different elements. After all, anyone can figure out the players in the fashion world by reading a couple magazines.
then why don’t you go back to ready fashion magazines and get off this blog! she’s having fun and takes pictures of interesting people. get over yourself
While this outfit isn’t my style, I have to say I like it! It’s sooo easy to throw on neutrals and run out the door, even on the weekends. I like that she isn’t afraid of color or if they work together in a design sense. Not everyone worries about looking like they popped out of a fashion spread. I love your “city style sense” anthropology.
No one died and made you Andre Leon Talley. I’m just not really sure I understand the comments critiquing and nitpicking with the outfits. Sure it’s not something I would personally wear, but the point of this website is showcasing people in DC that have a definitive sense of what style means to them.
I echo holiday. candycorn, if Rachel’s concept was to style these people herself that’d be one thing. She’s not able to “create” “good design” by stopping people on the street. Some of her coolest shots are of people who’re wearing crazy stuff or are just doing something different. It’s more about the people than anything. This can’t, by the nature of it, be about people who look fashiony all of the time. Besides if it were, she wouldn’t have a ton to post!
Rachel your doing a great job just keep it up
we all look forward to your pics everyday……….
very casual and cute… love the
boots….
The last five comments were made by the same person.
Oh, please, Rachel’s blog is about people that she thinks are stylish, but she routinely picks people that aren’t. That’s not nitpicking what people are wearing (and even what I stated about this particular person was to illustrate my criticisms of Rachel’s chocies). That’s holding Rachel to what this project is supposed to be about. And that’s not a bad or unreasonable thing.
Rachel’s grasp of design is just plain nonexistent. I would love for it to be different, because I think that there is alot of good things to say about style in DC. Rachel could really do alot of good here. But that’s not going to happen if she sees every criticism as an attack, and if her sorority sisters are going to jump into the defense without even thinking about what is being offered. Rather than attack me for having the gall to disagree with Rachel (and for calling her design sense into question), why not address the actual points I brought up? Go back and check; you’ll see that I made some very specific points about the outfit that any of you can address.
Unless, of course, the point of this blog is to just show off Rachel’s ability to take pictures of people wearing clothes. I’m pretty sure anyone can do that.
Rachel, this is much better than your last entry (though I’m not sure what the homeless person in the background has to do with fashion or style—eventually, you’re going to get a homeless person or two in your pics, considering the number of homeless that live in the city, and especially in that particular doorway). I think what makes this outfit is not only the palette but also the clean lines. I’m not keen on popped collars with sportscoats but I think it’s okay here. My only real concern is that the color of the pants are not closer to the color of the coat. If the coat were a little less warm or if the pants were a little less cold, the outfit would be better. But that’s minor—it doesn’t mess up the overall look.
The hat, of course, makes the whole outfit. Would the popped collar seem as jaunty or the lines seem as classic if not for the depth the hat tells? I don’t think so!
Much better.
I’ve been curious about going into American In Paris, but now that I’ve seen your blog I definently will not.
I will check out Diva
I moved to Alexandria after living in Logan Circle and being used to shopping in the U Street area; the shopping experience in Old Town has some odd moments. I don’t know what it is but the sales people tend to be more obnoxious towards you in Old Town if you are not dressed like some rich preppy.
Not crazy about the coat/jacket, but I do like the jeans with the boots.
pretty tight…ya charlie busting that ill fs board
before there were cool skate songs and you could purchase a skater uniform at pac sun or where ever the fuck, the same scene was in dc and everywhere else….. where was the press then. nice try but in five years when the pop fad of sk8ing isn’t rad anymore where will you be? i’ll be somewhere like the shitty side of shaw… the same place i was before it was cool to be there……… but whatevs
this is the worst article ever and you suck at taking photos!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I’m pretty sure this is one of the worst blogs and/or websites ever created.
When are the bug-eyed sunglasses are going to go away!? They look ridiculous. Someone please send the memo.
I love the blouse on the right though.
There is absolutely nothing right about this. The suit pieces clash- not that mixing and matching is bad but this does not work. The popped collar is obscene and makes the look “costumey” as opposed to cool and the shoes are a hot mess. This is bad Usher impression. I choose the homeless person. I like the bold hat color!
I have to say…If Rachel and her friends don’t want this blog to be criticized or critiqued based on its fashion theme and charter then perhaps she should rename it “Project Fun Photos.”
Rachel’s peeps should be flattered that people are actually reading this blog regardless of the tone of their contributions.
I don’t agree with some of the opinions Rachel has, but I think it’s clear she has a developed sense of what she likes, doesn’t like, and most important, *why* she feels that way. If any of us who hold fashion dear are able to defend our sense of style while still keeping an open mind – i.e. not particularly liking something but admitting it looks good on someone else and/or fits that person’s own unique bent – then who’s to say who does or doesn’t “have a handle on what makes good fashion?”
I’m not Andre Leon Talley, either, but I think I know enough to firmly believe there is no sole accepted definition of “good” and “not good” when it comes to fashion. In Andre’s world, that metallic Oscar de la Renta python bolero he forced upon Jennifer Hudson at the Oscar’s was “good.” Most disagreed with him, he still stands firm in his decision, and all of this just legitimates my point even more — we each have our own preferences when it comes to style, and as long as we can articulate them and defend them persuasively, we’re all doing our jobs well.
Rachel — keep it up. I check your site everyday and look forward to your great photos and commentary.
aj you stole my sweatshirt u bastard hah
Interesting photo, but these two hipster girls could be found in any major metropolitan area in the United States.
I hope you don’t mind, but I featured the “Bad Ass Mama” tee on my blog today — I ordered it yesterday and plan to wear it to the bad-ass gun expo in Dulles on April 1st. Yee-haw!
I don’t think a lot of the commenters here and on other posts realize that this isn’t meant to be a “fashion” blog! It’s meant largely as an anthropological effort. Rachel often points out abstract concepts (the mix of color on this person, the texture of this, whatever) instead of praising an overall look head-to-toe. Scott from The Satorialist has to defend this to his readers sometimes too. Very few people are gonna look like flawless fashion plates all the time. I mean, you guys live here in DC too! You know this. Have a broader definition of style.
Haha, I think I have that purse! Target has great stuff; I’ve gotten some of my favorite shoes and accessories there. Unfortunately, the clothes have a tendency to run big, so it’s almost impossible to find stuff for a small petite girl.
this guy has it together for sure…….totally cool……
Wow Katherine Kennedy and the other gal who is posing are gorgeous……great outfits also…..
This guy looks great…embraced his own style and executed well. Better!
The gal in the 3rd pic with the red dress is a doll. What a figure. That dress was made for her……..Also the 3 ladies in the last pic have very different styles. Good pic of them.
Overrated!
That dress is so cute. Is that guy behind her holding her monogrammed bag though?
she looks so elegent in that black dress……
Thanks for deleting all of our comments. I guess you can’t handle the truth about your site and the people you photograph. Good luck failing.
She looks like she’s wearing a curtain from her grandpa’s van.
The two guys behind her are a pair of the worst DC has to offer.
I love the color (who’s ever seen brown eyelet, anyway?), the fabric, but most especially the cut-outs along the plunge of the neckline. I wish I knew what shoes she wore with it. Assuming this dress *is* brown (someone said black, but on my screen it looks chocolatey), I’d have gone with a nude peeptoe. Eyelet always looks funny with dressy sandals, because like you said, it is by nature an “innocent” fabric. In this case, vamp shoes plus eyelet looks confusing, not stylishly antithetical.
The only way this could have looked better is if this pretty blonde had a pretty tan.
The photo was taken on 18th Street in Adams Morgan, but Secondi is at the corner of Connecticut and R NW, just above Dupont Circle.
Rachel–
Bahh, whoops…changed. I should’ve had coffee this am!
cute gal nice figure but rubbers gotta go………
Dear Ms. Gorlin,
I’ve been following your blog for a while, as well as your posts on DCist.com. You can put me down as a fan. You’ve been beat up on unfairly on DCist.com. That’s a shame because what you’re doing is actually quite interesting. Your column on DCist.com is one of the funniest, wittiest and most clever things they have going. I encourage you to stick with it.
As a photographer, I think you’re pushing the concept of street photography in an interesting direction. Your straight forward snapshot aesthetic, combined with your cusory comments on the people and clothing items featured in your photographs, plays with the rich history of street photography and accompanying explanatory text (either published or as gallery wall text.)
I actually think your documentary-type D.C. fashion project rises to the level being an online art project in and of itself. I’ve added you to the D.C. area art blog section on my blog roll. Keep rocking with this project. I’m hardly a fashion expert, but I know original art when I see it. Project Beltway is a unqiue work of online art.
Sincerely,
The Right Reverend James W. Bailey
One of the best qualities about this city is its unapologetic cosmopolitan nature; it is nice when events and the reporting (or representation) of them, celebrate that. Kudos.
Also, fashion events that promote local and grassroots designers are wonderful. I am so tired of over-industrialized, commercial fashion. My boyfriend recently bought me a “designer” handbag with the standard 5000 logos all over it. The poor guy did what he thought would please me (because it was expensive), but I could not hide my contempt. Looking at that adorable “Kris” clutch on this page made me think of exactly what I would have preferred—then I looked at the website and saw even better. I sent him the link and I think he starting to understand that I am not 15 anymore.
I think Lauren Bailey is adorable and so is her Kris clutch!!!
Rachel, please ignore the haters. Your blog is completely charming. Love the photos.
The guy behind your fashionable example is probably not your noteworthy dresser.
She obviously was attacked by several homeless men whose coats all stuck to her. Or she was “launched” in some horrid cheap couch fabric store explosion.
Ew.
very pretty girl but I have to agree with Bigger Bitch ( I can’t believe I am saying that) but the coat must go…….
It looks like Urban Outfitters threw up on these girls.
sorry. i agree with bigger bitch and tom h! that coat is freaking hideous.
Check out the shoes!!!
I think he is so cute. I love the hoodie with the blazer. Such a great look.
My girlfriend does the hoodie and blazer thing all the time. On the right person it’s a killer combo!
Look is fab! Girl is gorgeous…this is one of the features worth mentioning. BBTY, Tom H, and miss kittin are the reason DC fashion sucks. They praise someone for daring to wear a blazer and a hoodie (soooo risky) and crticize this chick who is owning her look. Boo!
Ummm ladies? Gwen Stefani has the INS looking for your asses. You either dance or deport.
Dear James,
You really need to get out more or less depending on what you are doing when you go out…either way your outrageous admiration and passion for this blog signals the need for some serious self-evaluation. Perhaps you are the author’s dad or bf cleverly posing as a fan?
I’m all for owning a look, but this coat is not something I would ever characterize as cute. Not at all. For me, it’s less the colors than the style. In all-black or all-brown, I’d still think the fit and the too-long sleeves make her look a bit dumpy. And with a gigantic silver tote? Sorry, not a fan.
But then again, I’ve never been on board for the knee-length sweater look.
Dear GT,
I’m from New Orleans. We only do the passionate and outrageous where I come from, whether we go out or not.
As far as self-evaluation goes: I gave up hope for that after Katrina. Too much post-Katrina self-evaluation leads to suicide. I’m not interested in going there until I resolve all my outstanding F.E.M.A. claims. I don’t plan on leaving this planet until I have every dime in the bank from the federal government that it owes me for destroying my home.
I stand by my comments. Ms. Gorlin’s site is more interesting than 80 per cent of the art blogs that I’m aware of. I would say so on DCist.com, but don’t have the energy to argue with the anonymous haters who no doubt probably think Sanjaya is the greatest singer since Jesus ordained Elvis as God’s choir director for North America.
I’m not Ms. Gorlin’s father (I have no children that I’m aware of), nor am I her best friend – I no longer have any best friends because all my best friends from New Orleans were forced to relocate to Houston or Atlanta after the levees broke. [Traditionally, people from Houston and Atlanta have been mortal enemies of the people of New Orleans, so I was sorta bound by historic tradition to reevaluate my best friends based upon their evolving storm-damaged geography. Hopefully, now that my former best friends are living outside of New Orleans, they are taking advantage of a cultural environment that encourages in some serious self-evaluation. Of course, all of their F.E.M.A. claims have been settled, so that certainly facilitates the desire to engage in private introspection.]
Anyway, I like what Ms. Gorlin is doing with this blog and think that it is quite artful. Maybe I should have simply said that. But we don’t simply say simple things so simply down in New Orleans, but that’s another story.
Sincerely,
The Right Reverend James W. Bailey
He is quite attractive in the first place, but his outfit makes him even more handsome. I love a man who can pull off that slim silouette.
Hmm… I personally think these girls look fly, especially the one in the yellow, turquoise and red. And I’d love to know where she got those shoes from.
What’s overrated: the jacket, the store or the derm? You’re wrong on all three I think!
Just a note–
My last name is actually Cothran, not Gorlin (Rachel Gorlin is a commenter…same first name though…spelled the correct way I might add)! Thanks for your support James, *tips hat.*
Boy oh boy! He’s a real catch. I wonder if he’s in a band…
Believe me, GT, a blazer + hoodie is NOT my idea of risky fashion — and I can get behind what this chick is trying to do, but the execution is all wrong. She’s a cute girl with a great shape, and one of few people who’s been photographed on this blog who can rock the skinny jeans with flats, but I’m sorry, that wrap sweater/bathrobe/Joseph’s technicolor dreamcoat thing is fugly as sin. You can blame us all you want for making “DC fashion suck” for having this opinion, but for what it’s worth: (1) you have never met me in person and have no idea how I dress — and I’ll bet you that it’s cuter than most of the people photographed on this blog dress and (2) how in the world could certain people be responsibile for the fact that certain other people in DC can’t freaking look in the mirror in the morning and dress themselves like decent human beings?
that jacket is marc by marc jacobs. i bought it for my fiance. it’s a good jacket for a hoodie and jeans.
Lauren Bailey is fantastic and so are her handbags. I have one of her James Satchels and I don’t know how I ever got along with out it. Women, as well as men, often comment on the satchel, they all are so impressed with the look and the softest leather imaginable. For spring I think I’m going to have to have one of her Miles Hobos!!
Ok, THAT’s IT, this is a parody blog. There is NO WAY that I can actually think this is real. Unless Doctor Who has transported be to the East End circa 1983 without me knowing it.
Losers. All of you.
I have to say, I agree with the B*tch. That is a really ugly shoe. Really ugly. Your eye for fashion is quite scary.
I have to agree with the others. As someone who rocked the BCBG wrap with Via Spiga stilettos yesterday, I think there is a sense of fashion in D.C. It’s just hidden among the powersuits and hipsters.
This coat would be better WITHOUT the overlap. It would work a little better as more of a “lab coat” with no belt. The pattern is too busy (not necessarily a bad thing) to have any extra fabric overlapping and tying with a belt.
Just because Gwen Stefan is a good singer (debatable) doesn’t mean she can design clothes.
Ugly-Cool indeed. I would have to pass. This is like when Mischa Barton told me Keds were cool again. I didn’t buy that either.
Miss Kitten you are right on…..you go girl……..
Via Spiga and BCBG!!!!! Oh my! Where did you ever find those couture lines…Yawn.
Thanks for making my point.
Miss Kittin- people like you can be blamed for the lack of fashion because you are the people who feel empowered to comment on fashion yet all of your comments….zzzzzz. Sorry, dozed off for a sec. Oh yeah: boring, your comments are boring, leading me to believe that you support “boring” and spread “boring.”
Tom H: You go girl? Are you a member of the Spice Girls or just an avid fan of The View?
HAHAHAHAHAHAHH….oh people, people, people. I’m sure he is a lovely person and a fine gentleman but subject of fashion critique he is not.
Sensible, not offensive, but not to be hailed.
Actually cute…would need to be selectively incorporated. Black Susana Monaco tube dress, chunky lucite necklace…red or blue. Solid! Good pick Rachel.
BBTY- I’m sure the Gap or Wet Seal has something you could wear with these…
GT- right as usual!
Kris Kross will make you jump, jump! That’s all I have in me for this one- lost cause.
Really Rachel, you are going to delete the comments of those who don’t agree with you? Is this Project Beltway or Mein Kampf???????????????
I think Lisa is a cutter. Someone check her thighs! That’s not funny! Okay, it is.
Stop cutting yourself Lisa and share your wit and hipster mentality with the world!
I have a pair of Toms in navy – *all* navy – and they’re just okay. Not my favorite flats, not my most comfortable flats, but sometimes I reach for them when I’m walking to my friend’s rooftop pool on a summer Sunday or when I go to upstate Michigan for a week in August.
Even though they’re not me, I envy the person who could pull these off – maybe Rosario Dawson in a pair of black skinny jeans and a red Rachel Pally tee?
What I don’t get about all these Rachel-haters is why they keep coming back and why they insist on telling her she’s so awful. Why don’t you all just move on to another site?
I think TOMS are fab…comfortable, fashion forward, AND the proceeds go toward a good cause. Plus they were featured in a recent issue of Vogue. Good find Rachel!
^ GT, oooooooh, wow, that hurts, and at the same time makes soooo much sense, too — so my posts are “boring” (I’ve made, what, two of them?) so obviously I dress boringly and am responsible for people in DC who dress boringly as well. Wow. Impeccable logic. Well, I’m sorry I’m not as fascinating and insightful a poster as you, whose comments consistently condone hideousness. Because fashion really is about looking “different” and “edgy” . . . and hideous. Thanks for your infinite wisdom.
Dear brother, you have the best outfit ever, and you’re such a gentleman
Oh, and your band is so neat! I can’t wait for your cd. I got clay on my starburst 
Its nice to people in DC and not political robots
Miss Kitten right on again……
GT….big fan of the View…….LOL
I’d love to wear these shoes with my piano key necktie.
He looks shabby. And looks like every other indie-rocker guy on every street corner. He hit every right indie-kid look: hoodie, too-small sports-coat, cheap trainers. Oh, and beat up old a bike.
Woo. Good. You need the break. Regroup and come back tomorrow with some real fashion, okay?
We like the fact we didn’t have to vomit this morning. So please, take the week. It’s recess we could stand a week or two without eating a whole roll of tums.
Anon and Bigger Bitch Than You:
Why are do you continue to come back to this blog EVERY DAY if you don’t like it? Personally if I don’t like something, I don’t bother with it. Now here is a thought!
whoops, typo. It should read “Why do you continue…”
Hey Anon and Bigger Bitch Than You:
Perhaps you should use this time to job hunt … clearly you do not have enough to do.
Why is it that so many fashion blogs have a group of people trashing it who just can’t stay away yet complain about being physically ill everytime they visit. There needs to be some sort of therapy for these people, because clearly they need help.
However, no publicity is really bad publicity. So you’re continued site traffic and bitching about the site probably helps this blog out.
Well, asshats, they come to this site to make fun of you because your sense of fashion sucks. And DUH they drive up your traffic so others can make fun of you too. HELLO! SIGH…
I’m loving her style! So chic and effortless!
jaja
Bigger Bitch Than You and Anon are right on the money again about Project Beltway. This site is awful!! We come back in the hopes that one day Rachel will figure out that she knows nothing about fashion and quit. We’re doing an online intervention.
Oh and all the Rachel supporters, who are clearly her long-time friends and Rachel herself using different aliases, need to GIVE IT UP!
No, actually, we are people who enjoy this site, the photos of real DC people (those who have $$ to spend on awesome clothes and those who look great without lots of $$), and the view point of a normal young DC resident. Also people who enjoy this blog have a soul, maybe that’s the problem Anon, Bigger Bitch Than You and PB smells all have in common. Moreover, if they have sooo much time to bitch about how bad PB is, why don’t they get off their asses and create their own blog? Guess they’re lacking balls too.
Note comment number 3. Is “DC Girl” the author of this blog? Looooooove how she can’t proofread, nor can she pick out decent fashion.
Hey, project beltway chick! I was at a rest stop on the Jersey Turnpike tonight and one of the toilets was covered in trash bags. I guess so people wouldn’t use. But I took a picture and posted it on my blog as FASHION! I’m so kewl!
Hahahahahahahaha hahaha LOL this blog does stink!
So for all of Rachel’s die-hard critics, here’s a simple question…
What do you consider fashion?
Seriously, I’m interested. Because not once has anyone offered any suggestions or guidance or anything. Just insults and not much else.
Let’s be constructive in our criticism, thanks.
I like her bob and the coat. I was never a fan of those Marc Jacobs shoes (they give me a Steve Madden ‘98 flashback), but she pulls them off quite well. My biggest complaint is her posture. As many people have pointed out on this site, the most important part of fashion is being able to own your look. If she is going to wear a mini, she better work.
Veronica, you are wrong. See: Ugly Yellow Coat from a few days ago. I believe someone suggested it would be better with less fabric and no belt. That’s a suggestion, is it not?
Love the mini and the legs, like the hair, but not a huge fan of the rest, especially her hunched posture, sheer black hose and bare face.
I’d have chosen a stiletto pump – round-toed or peeptoe (I really can’t stand the wedge) – a cropped bell coat with Peter Pan collar and 3/4 sleeves and a simple mascara/base shadow/bronzer/sheer gloss makeup routine. Maybe a wide headband, too.
Was this taken yesterday? If it was, why would she be in a wool coat in 80+ degree weather?
The photo was taken on Friday actually, which was a gorgeous day. The coat wasn’t a heavy wool one though. And I agree about the posture. Often, confidence and an “I look great” attitude are a person’s most valuable accessories. And they cost nothing! I think tall women do the hunch thing sometimes which is too bad; it’s always best to stand tall, and yeah, “rock it.”
Funny, I saw you take this picture and wondered, “Is that Project Beltway?” Secretly, I’ll admit that I was hoping you’d stop me to photograph the retro look I was sporting that day.
You could do a whole series on the staff (and many of the customers) at Bang. They are seriously some of the most fashionable and hippest people in DC.
Wow Ann Taylor. I wish I could afford couture like that. She’s so original and that color REALLY flatters her. The hair style is also cutting edge. We’ll see that on Giselle soon.
Wow, she just got back from Iraq? And she’s so proud to serve her country she’s still wearing her desert camo tent! That’s patriotic. Oh wait, maybe she’s starting a new trend I’ve seen down south…FEMA tarp creations. That’s awesome! DC IS CUTTING EDGE!
If you took my picture then wrote about my outfit, “It looked way more expensive than it probably was,” you would be hard pressed to find a place in this city where I wouldn’t hunt you down. Fashion, much like class, is not dictated by amount of money.
Also, if you really were into chronicling the fashion of DC, you would have asked her what she paid for it. All part of the information we need, you know?
HOT!
So, I am the first to criticize when deserved but by Rachel saying that “the jacket looks more expensive than it probably was” is in no way offensive to the subject. Anyone who has left their home in the last say…decade knows the average price point at Ann Taylor…if you are ignorant enough to think that one cannot associate a general monetary value based on distributor than you should probably not be commenting on fashion blogs.
BBTY- where do you live that you expect Rachel to find couture lined streets? Ann Taylor = major snooze but the girl looks cute. My only beef with the posts are when the clothes are truly not flattering or are half-ass attempts at recent trends. Does this chick knock my socks off? No, but is it bad fashion? Absolutely not! More importantly, was the girl trying to rock couture or was she just trying to go to work? Pick your battles because your above post makes you sound ridiculous.
BBTY-
Jealous of the Spy bag and Gucci pumps much? Amazing how insecurities and jealousy read this well online.
Who is doing their make-up and what are their hours?!?
That’s your opinion GT. OPINION. What I posted was mine. I WOULD BE offended if someone said, “Hey, that’s a cute shirt and looks way more expensive than it probably was!”
I am not jealous of anything that makes anyone look like that, “GT”. Money is money but that doesn’t make you fashionable. I am sure you think your H&M looks like Prada. You probably live in Clinton and still wear “TOMMY” clothes and pantyhose under your shorts (with jelly shoes).
I actually despise people who spend a lot of money on clothes. When there is so much poverty in the world, people have some nerve buying $2000 purses. If I had that kind of money, I would be helping everyone I could. So, to say BBTY is jealous of a Gucci purse, think what you want. I am sure BBTY prefers to spend that money on real investments like property and 401k’s.
This is so true about the campus being a catwalk of sorts. On some fashionistas, it looks like the 80’s threw up on them. So faux pas. On a similar note, Howard University is having its annual Spring Fashion Show tomorrow evening and its an out doors one, complete with tents–a la Bryant Park!
Ignorance is blissful, no? What if you had prefaced it with…”it is from Wal-Mart” as this girl did with Ann Taylor? Would you still be offended or flattered? I thought so.
Great post! These girls are a blast, own their looks, and have fun with fashion. NICE
I love these photos. All of these girls have such a great sense of style. I only wish that a small fraction of the girls I went to college with had so much style. They were obsessed with Express! Fashion show sounds like a blast. I’m jealous.
I live down the street from Shaw Jr. High, where they have school uniforms. I love the way those girls dress to distinguish themselves from the masses. They colorful scarves, bangles and wrestling shoes. They inspire me to be a little more adventurous in my clothing choices.
This was definitely one of the most fun “assignments” I’ve done for a post…the kind of thing I feel like I could do more of without a full-time job! I suspect that doing this for all of the area schools will be pretty interesting, especially once they’re all complete. It’s not going to be just about the clothes, but the personalities and attitude. The poses alone will tell so much.
Snore…..I just fell asleep trying to figure out what the hell you are talking about? And you can’t ask a question then write “thought so” as if you asked me in real time and I just didn’t answer. Idiot.
what a great set! i love how everyone’s wearing so much color – spring has totally sprung.
This is one of my favorite posts of yours so far! Can’t wait to see what the guys are wearing. . .
Anon-
Are you a cutter or have you just watched one too many episodes of My So Called Life? Take a deep breath, light some incense, turn on your fav. Indigo Girls CD, and try not to be so angry.
Okay, maybe this is me showing my old age of 27, but aside from the last two looks (which I LOVE) and maaaybe the first one, I think the rest of these girls are not only trying more than a bit too hard to look trendy but some of them are also pretty inappropriately dressed for school.
Bright turquoise flats, leopard print leggings, cropped striped top and flashy aviators all in the same ensemble? And short shorts and wedged heels for class?? I went to a pretty trendy, liberal university that was right next door to perhaps the most avant garde college crowd there is (RISD), but no one on either campus would *ever* wear short shorts and heels or bare cleavage to seminar.
Seems more like party-wear than day-wear — that’s my main point.
I don’t like making overtly negative comments on blogs, but the girl in the high-waisted skirt, lavender tie and enormous yellow bangs trying to pull off the “Gwen”…that’s just painful to look at.
WHOO HOWARD! I love my alma mater!
Rachel, you picked the PERFECT DAY to go shoot on the yard. It’s like a rite of spring on campus. That very first Friday when the temperatures shoot up and the sun comes means the yard becomes an instant fashion show. And you gotta love the enery of the Howard girls. That’s how we do.
Love the whole look. Pretty lady,great legs,and love the heels.
pointed toe shoes? out or in?
I’m dying for a Burberry trench. I was just thinking this morning about how and when I could splurge for one. Maybe if I dropped my DVF habit.
Susan-I don’t think pointy toed shoes ever really go out, except for the really long witchy ones. Personally, I’m kind of into the almond toed pumps right now. Not quite round and not quite pointy.
I appreciate his bowtie. More men in DC should wear them, but I wish he had worn a pocket square in a brighter color so I can see it. I think they are great accessories.
Excellent question to pose! What do you all think?
Just like so many other things, I think they go in and out. It changes with the seasons too. Sometimes pointed-toe shoes just look too harsh…however, they do elongate the leg, especially with pants.
I have to say, there’s always going to be some shoe shape that is MORE in than others, but being a slave to trends is tired. The almond toe heels are super hot and they look good with so much! But at the same time, I think it’s weird to say that pointed toe shoes are ‘out.’ That would be like saying any shoe that isn’t a platform is out.
I don’t know if they’re “out” in the mainstream, but for me, I’ve cleared my closet of them. It’s just too severe a look for my taste. I much prefer the round-toe, peeptoe or almond-toe.
I’ve talked to a number of fashion-appreciative and fashion-ignorant men about this point (no pun intended), and they all admit they’ve never really liked the pointy-toe for the same reason I don’t — too harsh and too overtly trying to convey that powerful-career-woman look. I’m not saying we should dress to please men – not *entirely* – but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t pay their opinions some attention.
Plus, on a practical level, there are very few women (including this lovely woman in the picture) who take good enough care of the point, that inevitably ends up scuffed, stubbed and discolored. After a few weeks of wear and tear on the cracked sidewalks and cobblestones of K St. and Georgetown, respectively, even a gorgeous pair of Stuart Weitzman ‘Fever’ pumps are going to look sub-standard.
While we’re on the subject of dream-trenches, this is mine:
http://activeendeavors.com/product.asp?catid=5828&listtype=c&pfid=AED18404
I’m currently on a microwave popcorn, veggie patty and Fresca diet trying to save enough money to buy it.
Did she buy that outfit with “Camel Cash” from her old packs of cigarettes?
Please help my friend decide on birthday ideas:
B-Day Fiesta Ideas for Lil’ La Cucaracha
Love the model she is hot…..
well speaking for “this” guy those shoes look great but Johanna is right if not taken care that would be a problem… she just has great legs and the shoes match very well……
The two in the black hats look best — they’re awesome!
Ehhh, less impressed by the guys. The girls from yesterday’s post were money.
Great post – these women are gorgeous and seem to have fun with each trend they are choosing to rock.
Tibi is fab. The shoes are Jem (truly, truly, truly outrageous). If Amy Grant was going to church pig-picking and needed something to wear with a denim jumper, I would recommend those sandals.
Tom,
Are you a motivational speaker or a pervert? Every one of your posts is about the woman’s physique or degree of attractiveness…the first couple times I thought “nice guy” but it’s getting weird and desperate.
So hot! I had no idea Howard had such scene!
ok…that FLYING bag…i have that in navy!!! It was a free gift from FLYING magazine back in the 80’s! Now that i look at it on here, that logo is kinda kick ass. I’m off to rifle through my dad’s old shit!
Meh. I am not sure what to say about these pins or the bags. Very craft fair- fun in theory but actually executed seems like a big fat mess to me. They fit with the crap at Pulp that you want to buy because its funny or unique but at the end of the day its just cheezy and borderline trashy.
Really holiday? Perhaps you and Tucker Carlson should edit Vogue…
Unless you’re an oldie or at a formal event, rocking the bowtie is not alright.
As a female, I have to weigh in on the bow tie. I think its hot-and wish guys would wear them more often.
Is this the Young Republican’s blog now? LJG- perhaps you should try Connecticut.
Ok GT where do I start…….not a pervert or
speaker,not weird or desperate just an average
guy who enjoys this site. I see plenty of different fashion good and bad and also some attractive people. I am a “nice guy” and I Thank You for noticing.
And if you had asked her to step back less than an inch, we would be able to actually see what she’s wearing. Ugh, such a bad photographer.
That’s weird. I can see what she’s wearing.
I’m ultra-liberal and think the bow-tie can be perfectly appropriate on the right guy. There was another guy at Farragut Park yesterday in a bow-tie who looked fantastic also. Almost sporty with his cap (which the wind blew off his head into me as I sat doing my crossword puzzle).
My only complaint with the guy is that he seems to be wearing black–I’m so tired of black. Or maybe it’s dark brown–in which case he should have worn brown shoes.
I think anon was just suggesting that she stand in the sunlight rather than the shade.
Jesus. You have no shame. I don’t even make fun of those that might be a little touched in the head, ill or homeless. You people are MEAN!
Flip flops….ugh. DC fat girls waddle that walkway!
i had that haircut in 2004.
i’ve been to bang a few times. most of the people there are nice but a few are too cool for school. at least in their mind.
Can’t believe I agree with BBTY, but the description is offensive. He is clearly ill, no fashion statement here.
Dear Rachel,
I apologize for the mistake about your last name.
I’m actually hoping that you expand the concept to other cities. For example, I’d love to see your take on the fashion sensibilities of the people of my hometown of New Orleans. Unlike the stereotypes, not every guy in the Big Easy dresses like Ignatius J. Reilly! Although, to be honest, most men don’t dress like Harry Connick, Jr., either!
But fashionable or not, all of us from New Orleans wear white boots when we go shrimping: http://www.whitebootbrigade.org/ We need all kinds of help (including fashion advice) in New Orleans these days. For example, it is ok to wear white shrimp boots after Labor Day?!
Seriously, I very much enjoy reading your blog and viewing the images you post. I hope more come to appreciate the art of what you’re doing. I wish you all the best with your project.
James
Wow, sorry guys. Believe me, this was NOT meant to make fun AT ALL…I like to take an anthropological approach to the site sometimes, but maybe this just didn’t come across the right way. Apologies to anyone who was put off–again, it was not my intention to poke fun.
Love the lady in pearls! Aside from her mauve polish (and the tad too-long nails on which it’s painted) she’s the ideal sexy DC sophisticate.
From the chest up, anyway.
Don’t pay any attention Rachel. These are the same people who crucify someone for wearing Ann Taylor and then suddenly become Mother Theresa in order to get at you. While I am not certain how he fits into the theme of the blog, I certainly understand that you were not mocking him. In fact, I find it more insulting that they assume the guys is mental or homeless because of his adventurous attire.
Hypocrisy looks bad on everyone.
I highly doubt this man is homeless — when was the last time you saw a clean, color-coordinated, moisturized, shopping-cart-free homeless person with bus-fare?
Also it could just be the angle he’s sitting at that makes him look “a little touched in the head.” Rachel was there, and if her first impression of this guy wasn’t that he had a mental illness, she was probably right.
Maybe I’m just an even bigger bitch than BBTY, but I laughed out loud at your description. In my book, no one except children with terminal illnesses, refugees and family members are off-limits to tongue-and-cheek vitriole.
vitriol, not vitriole. Whoops.
I disagree with Erin. I think he looks like a Model-T chauffeur from the 20s. All he needs to complete the look is a white scarf, driving goggles, waxed moustaches and a pair of knickers. “Haw haw, old boy!”
I’m going to have to disagree with Yoder. I’d like to Filene his basement.
I work up the street and see him everyday. He is a little touched, and loves that hat. I’ve tried to speak but never gotten a response. Maybe someone knows his name as something other than “character”?
I agree with the first comments, but also with the response. It’s a fine line to comment on humanity’s pain and suffering in the context of a “style” blog. It’s obvious this wasn’t your intention, but maybe try to frame it in more positive language next time. Love the site tho.
He looks like a starving orphan from Oliver Twist. Why is he frowning? Didn’t score any cash pickpocketing on the metro?
“Please sir, my I have some more?”
I think he looks like one of those stereotypical self deprecating jerks who can’t even bother to smile for a picture. What is with that?
He was actually my neighbor for 3 years, so no, he’s not homeless. He lives alone in a rowhouse just around the corner from this picture. I know he talks to some people in the neighborhood, but my “hellos” were never returned. And he has many more hats.
If you have a chance, head over to the Eastern Market on Capitol Hill during the weekends. Caitlin, the artist, sells her purses and pins there on both days. They’re *really* nice – the pics don’t do justice to the level of craftsmanship or the selection of fabrics used in the purses. It’s unfortunate, because there are a lot of people doing ‘cash-in’ knockoffs of vintage projects like these, but Caitlin is the real deal. Check her out!
FINALLY YOU GET IT. BRAVO!
Don’t forget the flat front vs. pleated devide, which some say is more entrenched than pro/anti the troop surge.
Lets hope the flat fronts are leading the way.
I have to say that I honestly think some people are over-analyzing the pictures and simply don’t understand what’s going on. I do admit that to the average person Howard students dress a little over the edge, but you have to understand that most of us are at the point in our lives where it is okay to express our individuality. A lot of us come from private high schools where uniforms were required so the only time we really had the chance to get dressed was on the weekends. And since we have yet to enter the corporate world, what better time then now do we have to explore and experiment with style. Oh and by the way, as much as I like Gwen, please believe that we have two totally different styles. Actually, my hair has been this color for three years and it was dyed for the simple purpose of prom…not to imitate the certian look of someone famous…TRUST. Other than that, I think that people need to be a little more open-minded and realize that we’re just having fun and living a little.
LoL… you spelled Tony’s name wrong.
“Dolan”
I hate when girls think they have to do that dumb beauty contestant pose with one knee bent.
Mrahhhhh, damn. Fixed. Thanks Rob.
Not so much. This suit does not fit properly. The pants are too long. If a man wears narrow pants, he should not have a break in the pants. He has an enormous break. And his sleeves are way too long. There is absolutely no cuff showing, which is quite a faux pas. Not to mention that a “proper suit” should be accompanied by a tie, not a white t-shirt poking through at the neck.
It does look a bit ill-fitted.
Zach makes all good points, but the real point here is that this guy does stand out from pretty much every other guy downtown in a suit because he is doing a lot right here.
The pants aren’t really “narrow,” they’re just not horribly baggy or wide like most, so I don’t think the break is as much at play here.
A few things to tweak, but he looks a hell of a lot better than a lot of guys.
Are they from, like “Fresno”? Ugh. that outfit was hip in CA about 20 years ago. You know I bet that is VINTAGE from their mother’s madonna years! OH YEAH VINTAGE. Clearly they also have a whole collection of little backpack purses they’ll bring up next.
And really PB, even Close UP is way beneath EVEN your poor taste.
Kisses.
HA HA HA! You’re deleting my comments. That’s so lame. SO lame!
like the top and sunglasses but I think the shorts are just a tad bit long but overall a very cool summer look.
This project reminds me very much so of Barbara Krueger’s work. If you don’t know who that is, do yourself a favor and google her. I’ll do you one better here’s a gallery page ( http://www.barbarakruger.com/art.shtml ). Check it out. She is one of the most important American Artist of the 20th century.
Though these pins and bags aren’t on the same leave of conception as Barbara Kruegers work they are still important.
Though I could never really advocate a light pink anything, I have to admit this is a pretty sweet outfit all around. Very flattering to her figure.
I must say, though, I’ve never undstood the lure of the French pedi — am I the only one who thinks it makes your toes look creepily like fingers?
Eh, this is okay. To be honest, she looks like every makeup-free, granola trustfunder I went to college with.
Don’t know about her thighs (can’t make them out in her baggy shorts) but her calves have potential. Get a few more runs in – and trade those Reefs for some heels – and she’ll be minidress ready by June.
Bigger Bitch than you: Your comments are lame. Good for her for deleting some…her readers just became smarter as a result.
If you have nothing intelligent to contribute to the public domain, please – for the rest of us – stay quiet.
If you need something to do to fill the lonely hours … check it out:
The Majestic Restaurant in Old Town is re-opening soon under the direction of the Restaurant Eve Team.
We are seeking Host staff and Servers!
If you are Hip, Friendly, Focused and Decent- come and apply!
experience is not a must, we will train you.
We DO hire for personality!- the ‘Sunnier’ the better!
Don’t worry sweetheart, they can probably bend the rules for you on the last one …
My sister and I of Follow Fashion, Inc. are hosting a designer sample sale in Georgetown April 28-29, 2007. The clothes are all 30-70% off retail. Some name brands are BCBG, J Brand, Ella Moss, T-Bags, C&C California, Alvin Valley, Tory Burch, Juicy Couture, Sweetees, James Perse, Joie, Rich Chix, Norma Kamali, Development, Alice+Olivia, Rachel Pally, Marc Jacobs, Laundry by Shelley Segal, Plenty by Tracy Reese, and so much more! Visit us at http://www.followfashioninc.com I would also love for you and your friends to attend! It is sure to be a fabulous event to begin Spring and Summer!
Where: 1614 Wisconsin Ave., NW (Georgetown) Washington, DC
When: April 28-29, 2007 10AM-6PM
Hmmm. Too underdressed to have a job, yet not scruffy enough to be homeless. I’m perplexed.
We need a silent movie theater that serves chili. That’d be a smash!
I think the outfit is perfect for her frame. You could call this proportion III. Her pants are great and the small bag is even better. I love big bags but on petite women they look like overnight bags!
This girl is really cute. I think the key to professional clothing is looking modern, urban and unfussy. It’s so important to have tailored clothes that fit you well. There wrong with wearing something predictable like a pencil skirt and heels as long as you can find a way to make it interesting or individualistic. I probably own around 12 pencil skirts in different colors that I wear all of the time. My one comment is that I think her jacket is a bit small, because it puckers under her chest. Otherwise I love the overall look and her leopard print heels.
You took the words right out of my mouth, Holiday — the jacket is *too tight* and makes this tiny size 2 look like she has a tire around her waist. The skirt also looks a bit stretched across her mid-section, but that could just be wrinkle-age from sitting down, I suppose.
I love mixing up the brown palette like this young lady did, but I try to keep the hues as distinct as possible. Instead of pairing a bright white jacket and purse with an ivory turtleneck, I would have gone for more contrast by swapping one of the three – preferably the jacket – for something chocolate brown that would have picked up the trim on her shoes. White against ivory just never looked right to me, but that could just be my own taste, not a right-or-wrong thing.
At the end of the day, I’m pleased as punch to see a woman who chose not to wear a suit in these parts. I own three, but I don’t think I’ve ever worn the jacket and the trousers/skirt in the same outfit. It’s so much more fun and imaginative to mix it up, and it makes me happy to see others do the same.
Ok, here’s an internal debate I’m having, completely unrelated to this post (sorry). I’ve become enamored with the new matchstick skinny jeans. I decided to hold off on buying them until I someone who looks like myself in them, (5 feet, with some hips to boot). Do these jeans only look good on the tall rail-thin girls or is there hope for me too?
The last time I was in Brooklyn visiting a friend, I’m pretty sure almost every woman was wearing skinny jeans–tall, short, skinny, curvy. In fact my friend told me that when she sees a woman wearing bootcut pants, she knows that they just moved to NYC Anyways, the point I would like to make is that if they flatter you, go for it. If not, just take a pass. You shouldn’t be a slave to fashion. Plus, if you wanted to be cutting edge, you would get a pair of those new wide legged jeans that I keep seeing Kate Moss wear.
That’s a good point. Thanks Holiday!
To piggyback onto what Holiday wrote, I think unless you have a really disproportionate hips-to-waist ratio or you’re just really untoned (we can see it even through denim), you can rock the skinny jeans successfully. As big a fan as I am of the new Katherine Hepburn-esque wide-legged silhouette, I just think the skinnies are much more practical — they go well with everything from flats to heels to tall boots. *So* worth the investment. I’d get a black pair, too.
All–
Great comments. See the new post I just did on skinny jeans. Anyone have favorite brands, especially curve-friendly ones?
I’m pretty small (5′2″ and 115 lbs) but curvy, and I would never wear skinny jeans. Even straight-legged jeans (the kind that aren’t flared but also not skin-tight like these) make my hips and thighs look enormous, so I can’t even imagine what skinnys would do.
Also, I’ve seen a lot of people who simply do not look good in those jeans. After all, one style can’t flatter every body type, and that’s why you need to pick and choose from the trends that are out there. Grab a wrap dress instead– it will hug your delicious curves in all the right places and look fantastic!
Another thing to keep in mind is that skinny jeans emphasize the feet as well as the hips/thighs/rear. So unless you have small or slender feet and don’t mind wearing delicate shoes like narrow flats or stilettos, you end up looking like a clown (I think the guy above is sorta suffering from that).
Talk about an interactive website – thanks for the post Rachel! I think I will head over to Denim Bar. I could use some some new jeans anyway – whatever silhouette I end up choosing!
I am curvy-and love the honey fit by Joes. Also Red engine always fits me great. http://www.redenginejeans.com/fits.htm
i’m 5′2 and 100 lbs and i LOVE skinny jeans. check screaming denim on 18th street for genetic denim. i bought their “denim leggings” a little while ago. they look like jeans but act like leggings. expensive but totally worth it. also, check out mustard seed in bethesda. they carry indigo six denim in a variety of colors and cuts and they are so cheap and perfect.
i’m 5′2 and 100 lbs and i LOVE skinny jeans. check screaming denim on 18th street for genetic denim. i bought their “denim leggings” a little while ago. they look like jeans but act like leggings. expensive but totally worth it. also, check out mustard seed in bethesda. they carry indigo six denim in a variety of colors and cuts and they are so cheap and perfect.
I wear Paige Blue Heights jeans. I know tons of people like them. You should definitely check out shopbop.com, because they are having a rare promotional offer right now. Plus there is free shipping and no tax. All bonuses.
shopbop code
use code TAXBREAK2007
spend $100, get $20 off ($50 off $250, $100 off $500)
I’m a Joe’s Jeans girl, too. I have a pair of the Rockers and two of the ultra-skinny Chelseas (one in black and one in plain blue). If you order online, beware that they tend to run a size big. If you’re a 4, order a 26, not a 27. You can find them all at: http://www.revolveclothing.com
I like Joe’s not only because they fit me best (I’ve tried EVERYTHING), but also because, as far as premium denim goes, at $160-ish, they’re pretty darn reasonable. And if you catch an online sale, you can get an even better deal. For my black Chelseas, I paid $71.90 on Bop’s final markdown this past January. More than 50% off – not bad.
Oh and guys, unless you’re a British rocker or an art student, leave the skinny jeans to the ladies. That poor man (and his poor junk) in the picture – I just want to run up the block to my apartment and fetch for him my wide-leg Georgetown sweatpants!
Thumbs up for her, thumbs down for him — he looks like he’s in bicycle pants.
i happen to loooove guys in tight pants. and i dig the brown version (i have the black ones)! I own two pairs of cheap monday, the best thing about them being how high waisted they are (not like to your pits or anything). i happen to think that tight pants are a mindset and not just a style of jeans. if you feel good in them, that’s the most important part. it may not be your thing and thats fine, too. if you are looking for cheap monday, you can find them at the new barney’s co-op in georgetown or at denim bar. the less-stretchy CM denim is about a size up from what you usually wear, depending on how TIGHT you want those shiz. Also, try ACNE jeans (denim bar) if cheap monday is too tight. they are a good compromise i feel but much more $$$. (for the opposite effect, try some dark denim high wasted sailor pants! boing!)
I just got back home (it’s 11:15 PM) from Denim Bar in Arlington (well, after drinks and dinner too).
Looks like everyone’s comments mean that my DCist post this Friday on Denim Bar is right on time.
p.s. I tried on some skinnies. And they looked hott.
i’m 5′ and 110 lbs and i love my skinny jeans. i also wear a size 6 shoe, so i don’t look clownish. i SWEAR by j brand! i have 3 pairs. the cropped skinnies (29″ inseam) are perfect for shorter girls like me.
I thought that this store opened like a year ago.
Once I was hanging out with my two cousins and my sister, and one of the cousins was assigning us to neighborhoods based on our outfits:
My sister: Georgetown (professional looking pumps, nice pants, classy pea coat)
Me: U Street (jeans with a wide belt, cropped army jacket over a rhinestone-embellished wifebeater, big hoop earrings and a black newsboy cap)
Her: Dupont Circle (skinny jeans tucked into kneehigh boots and a fitted black jacket with fur collar)
And my other cousin: NoVA (sneakers, workout pants, and some kinda coat… poor thing….)
I don’t live in U Street but I was thrilled to get assigned to it.
Lilly–
Turns out they have been open for a few months–shows how little I get out to Tysons. The clothes are great though (well they fit me to a T at least), for anyone who hasn’t discovered them yet. So to clarify, the party was for their Spring/Summer collection.
I just can’t find it in myself to give this trend a try. Transparent anything – bangles, shoes, bags – looks either stripper-ish or something you’d get at Limited Too.
That necklace is definitely more attractive than a block heel made of Lucite, but still, for $190, I’d prefer to get something I won’t be embarrassed to wear a season from now. Half a DVF wrapdress, for example
The way she’s wearing that scarf makes me wonder if she’s got a voice box in her purse. Shoot, she doesn’t have a purse, does she? Well, you know what I mean.
Sorry, Rachel, I love your site and your high-res photos, but the only attractive thing in this picture, in my opinion, are the filets off to her left.
I have to agree with Johanna. The low-rise jeans, the bandanna, the plain v-neck tee with midriff, the oxfords with no socks is just a mishmash of bad East Village trends.
ummm first of all yall lil hoes don’t hate kuz we know were bomb o yea you tricks probaly can’t even afford the close up trip and hollister broke tramps lol Fresno no i don’t think so long beach is more like right o yea dumb beauty type pose you just hatin because we look better than your ugly out of date selves and our bags might just cost more than your whole outfit can you say roxy so while you little haters are bumpin your gums just sit back and post and watch the pretty girls work
yea tramps ♥
I love the prints and the length of the dress on the left. Also, I predict long skirts ankle-length will be a smash this summer.
The men at Howard actually have a better sense of style than the women at Howard! And that’s somehow refreshing. Jaja likey!
man yall look pretty hott augastine and i think ashley man dont trip off haters juss do u and leave the drama behind u.
whoever these chixx r say’n that ur not hott and ur clothes r out of date man them weak ass chixx r not worht the breath keep doin yall thing repp’n the beach
oh Flirts ^
HE LOOKS GOOD
Fewer people, more pups!
this guy is totally my new style star.
The show was HOT, even if the music was a little loud. But who cares the bar was flowin’ and the place turned into a hot club after the show.
Um, the pink ladies called. They want their jacket back. Ew!
oh man, i just noticed the preppy belt. i’ll pretend i didn’t see that. hmph.
I don’t mind the individual pieces, but taken together…I’m at a loss. Wearing an uh-uh-no-you-didn’t Delia’s-style tee, a cropped satin jacket and peppering your outfit with estate-sale accessories — it’s not ironic, it’s just silly looking.
The hat might be chic with a seersucker dress at a horse race or with a fitted pantsuit at a royal wedding, but not in NW DC in the middle of the day for no special occasion.
well before i knew its name, the Eleanor was my first queen bee purchase many years ago (2002 i think? and yes, wholesale) maybe the stones were more narrow and less shiny. I’m more of a solitaire d on a thin chain gal, but this necklace gives an all black or solid color outfit a stylish dose of undertoned flare.
Love the stripper-ish comment (an aspiration indeed) but I’ve actually received hundreds of compliments on it through the years from older stri…i mean socialites around town. It’s very heavy and cut to sparkle.
that’s all.
Looks like Urkel to me.
my sister ash bash look hawt. forget them haters, poca fam ^
Rachel glad your back and yes it is wonderful to see such wonderful support for the VT HOKIES…….May God Bless them all……..
LIKE WHAT THE FUCK DO THEY GOT ON THEY LOOK BUSTED ASS FUCK WHO BENDS THEIR THEIR KNEES LOOK LIKE THEIR ON CRACK…THEM OUTFITS LOOK LIKE LIKE FROM THE 60′S AND MOSTLY THE GURL IN BLUE HER PANTS IZ ALL WRECKLED AND HER CHUCKS LOOKS DIRTY ASS HELL WITH THEM BIG ASS SHOE LACES AND THAT JACKET/SHIRT LOOK LIKE ITS HER LITTLE SISTER’S AND THE GURL WITH THE RED YOU NEED 2 DYE YO WHOLE HEAD NOT HALF OF IT CUZ SHE LOOK A HOT MESS AND HUMPS DONT LOOK RIGHT ON HER
P.S. YALL NEED TO LOOK IN FASHON BOOKS
Did you attend the WHCA gala? If so, what were your fashion impressions? I only commented on Petra and Morgan Fairchild’s hot messes, but were there any successes?
Where’s the pic of Romney’s boy, Mad Dog?
i think i know what your christmas card is going to be this year…in fact, MY christmas card might be that picture of you and tim gunn!
Rachel is that you?? Your a very attractive young lady…….a real cutie….I just hope you had fun at the dinner because I am sure there were a lot BORING people there……..
Cleavage at events like this (and weddings) I just find wholly inappropriate. Even though I wrote a detailed blog posting on why I didn’t like her empire-waisted nightgown, Petra at least scored points by achieving the classy/sexy balance with a low-cut neckline, bare shoulders and open back without a hint of boob-age. Well played, Nemcova.
The red dress on the blonde woman is okay (at least it fits well), but again, I just feel that certain events deserve a certain *kind* of dress — in this case, a gown. Cocktail dresses are for book launches and corporate parties, not black-tie events where the President is in attendance.
I would have been mortified were I that woman in the lacy peach bustier-style slipdress. She violates rule #2: keep your audience in mind when choosing your ensemble.
And that other woman with the black floor-length black pouf skirt and white bell-sleeved button up…um, yeah, I’m not even gonna touch that one…
Cute pic of you and “make it work,” Rachel!
Hi Rach -the woman on the left is Georgette Mosbacher -founder of la prarie. I think she’s currently the head of Borghese. My mother’s idol….
She is, and to her right is Ina Ginsburg
They were fabulous!!!
( :
I like the striped sweater/dress/tunic, but that’s pretty much all I’ll say. I stand by what I wrote in the last Howard University post.
I just really hope she was going to a rave and not to class in this get-up.
OOOOOOOOOOOH god. Look at all those WHITE SHOES…and BEFORE Memorial Day. Will god bring his wrath upon the earth soon enough.
Love the second piece – it’s like Washington pearls meets New York edge. Great find Rachel!
Jesse is awesome, and his work is just as cool as he is. Jesse, if you’re reading this, don’t forget I want one of those sword and safety pin necklaces, I’m still kicking myself for not buying it at STYLEistics.
The guy in the first pic looks delectable…
Jay-Z and Beyonce knock offs take to the streets looking for buyers…
so artful!
gorgeous pieces!
Thanks for the awesome coverage!! I am so bummed I missed it. Stylistics 2.0 anyone?
Hooray for Vedika and Renee!
I’m very impressed, as usual.
Thanks. It made me smile and cry. I love the Market.
And I have to say I bought a pair too, thanks to everyone’s input.
I would like to say that when I woke up this morning and heard about the fire at Eastern MArket, I thought that it was a dream, but I am really hurt over this. I have shopped at the market for the longest time. and I have worked with the flower vendor on the inside of the market. ANd also at the MArket Five gallery.I jumped up this moring before work to go and see if it was true or not. and I was shocked at all the damage that was done. But with prayers and community help , we will build the Eastern MArket back up.
F
Thank you for the lovely pictures of Eastern Market, in the neighborhood where I lived for three very happy years. I hope this wonderful place can be rebuilt yet maintain its sweetness and funky warmth. My heart goes out to the vendors and the lunch stand which fed me so many times.
Loved the Oriental dress by Renee which incorporated both design with candy. The show was so unique and professional at the same time. My sweet tooth definitely got aroused. A wonderful job done by all, cannot wait for another show.
This is a shame. The Eastern Market was one of the few things I really enjoyed about DC. If anyone knows how we can help rebuild or support the efforts please post any info.
Love the look!
She is really pretty. I like her sandals. The tank top under the dress is very Nicole Richie Summer 2005.
Hi all–
This site might be a good one to keep an eye on: http://www.saveeasternmarket.org/2007/04/on_this_sad_day_in_capitol_hill_a_welcome.html Read their entry on how specifically to donate to the rebuilding efforts (you need to specify that your $$ is for “Eastern Market: Keep it Going.”. Sounds like things are still pretty uncertain; here’s the update from the Washington Post: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/01/AR2007050100746.html?hpid=topnews
I work with this girl! She’s one of the hostesses at Saint-Ex and always looks ridiculously cute.
The girls are cute — but the guys kind of look like douchebags. Love that melon and white wrap dress on blondie.
Jules you are right the girls are very cute and love the short hemlines…….
i definitely saw those guys at the wrens concert in georgetown on saturday night. I thought the guy in the back was very cute but I assumed they must be georgetown students, so too young.
I adore the look of loose or strappy tops layered over a racerback. It’s a tricky look to pull off because it’s hard to find two things that look right when layered over one another, but this girl has inspired me to revisit my closet and do some more experimenting with this. It adds an interesting element to an outfit that would otherwise be cute but mundane.
I’m shocked and saddened to hear they’re NOT a band…and I was gonna buy tickets to go see them!
I see prints are IN, and I hope that trend will stick around for a while!
UGH Mandles. I wonder if these are actually wearable! Seems like liquor sloshing around in the sole of your flip-flop might make it go flying off at inopportune times…like when one of your brothers is hardcore hitting on your sraty girlfriend!
Wow. Who comes up with these things? Makes me think my toilet that keeps score IS a good idea.
Girls look good. A few of them need to consult a colorist and at least one deserves an eyebrow intervention but overall cute outfits…guys hurt me- deeply, madly, painfully. Bad, Bad, fashion!
I know living here in the Hamas the Reef Flop with the beer key on the sole is very popular with Locals and Tourist. I can only image how many of this style flip-flop I’ll see on the pink sand beaches.
I LOVE this necklace. I have a necklace that is similar to this one but i think it is made from a kind of metalic ribbon that is wrapped to form large chain links. I get a LOT of compliments on it, and strangley enough, people always come up and talk to me about it when i wear it out! It’s a great wingman!
“Flip-flops” are for the beach, not everyday wear.
Polo helmet and mallets. By Ralph Lauren of course.
ahhhhhhhhhh…polo…croquet…whatever!
I see this woman quite a bit as we work in the same industry. She always looks stylish, but yet still professional and appropriate for her position.
GREAT post!!!
Is that guy Taylor wearing the tag on his pants? I saw some pretty ridiculous hats and outfits at the Gold Cup. I must have seen a million girls in the same JCrew, Ann Taylor and Banana Republic dresses. Definitely a good time though.
This looks like an SNL skit gone wrong…in sooooo many ways.
jaja
timmaay!
How cute is that chocolate brown dress with those tights!?!
it was so great to have you there.
to capture the fun and the post post ironic dressing (bandannas, sunglasses at night…) to boot.
most fun ever.
There’s something about a man biting down hard on a fat cigar that I find refined and sexy!
Terrible the first time you posted, terrible now. At least he is consistent.
Toot. Toot. Project Beltway Express! “Next stop is the Vaseline Convention.” Thanks for showing us what it looks like to get dressed in the dark and then attend a KY Wrestlemania. Zexy and Greazy.
Hey Zac–
Frankie say RELAX.
Yay, they put on old 80s clothes. Or a hat. Or…what’s the latest cool-uncool thing to wear? What exactly is “post post ironic dressing” anyway? Putting on a costume. There are perhaps two women there that look stylish. Maybe only one. And the guys look ridiculous. Especially that first guy.
There’s as much “style” here as in the Gold Cup shots,the “R is for Rad” shot and the most recent preppy-girls-in-G’town shot. It’s the same thing over and over. Blah.
Fabulous indeed. I wish my legs were that long. I wonder what Johanna thinks. She is a big fan of short shorts.
I love the outfit in the middle and how she wore it with an anorak type jacket. The blonde is also really cute and casual. I need to pick up some more casual summer dresses.
Any thoughts on minidresses? I am dying to find one like Cameron Diaz’s here: http://www.stuff.co.nz/images/294694.jpg
http://www.teddyandmoo.com/blogimages/May2007/7/camerondiazshrek.jpg
I love Jacqui’s fierce style. It screams “I got it. I will flaunt it!” I have not been able to wear shorts that short in 2 years!
What? No pictures of me? *cry*
I love the look (the look on the left, that is), but I must say, I think it’s a bit “much” for daytime in Georgetown. She looks amazing, no argument there, and if anyone can pull off the Johnson silk Millicent shorts, it’s this woman, however, I tend to reserve the short- shorts-and-heels ensemble for either NYC or DC after hours. In a part of town where the majority of people are college kids’ parents and couples in their 40s to 60s, this look just seems a bit out of place.
But who knows, if I had mile-long stems like she has, perhaps I’d rock the short shorts and heels 24/7, too.
That’s what’s wrong and boring about you Washingtonians. Too many rules. -”Dont wear shorts shorter than 13 inches before 5:26 p.m. or after Monday or in between Tuesay and Friday…”– Yada Yada, Nag Nag, Pick Pick. Jackie looks gorgeous and her shoes are not ill-fitted, vulgar or showcasing her anatomy. There is only one rule in fashion: No rules!
Live it!
I love the creative and adventurous way the Japanese approach fashion. But this pic is so funny because the ladies’ facial expression are so contrasting! One looks thrilled to be shot, the other could not care less!
Oh..FIRST!!!
wow totally love the look…..looks very
comfortable……also great lookin gal…..
have fun in Sonoma Rachel……
By your logic, Jaja, a woman should wear short shorts and heels to a wedding, to a graduation, to the Met, etc., and feel justified in doing so simply because she’s got the legs for it. No rules? Come on now.
I’m all for “if you’ve got it, flaunt it,” but a classy woman knows the when, where and how before she leaves her front door.
And for the record, I never said – or even implied – this woman looked vulgar or was wearing anything ill-fitting. I simply said I thought shorts with a one-inch inseam (which, I’m sorry, *do* go out of their way to showcase her legs, gorgeous as they may be) PLUS 4-inches of added-height seemed a bit much for the middle of the day in a fairly conservative part of town.
He sounds totally outrageous and real. I would buy shoes from this dude, he rocks.
Pussy Wussy
Loved Afternoon Debright, but her boyfriend could spiff up more than a little. Now what about all those fabulous moms in DC for their day?
****~~r u kidding? i luv that guy’s style, its so cute;)
… its totally an eastern youth tee… slamin style + awesome taste in music! didn’t kno there were peeps like that in gtown lol!
so disagree on her. orange dress, black bra and white shoes. yeeeek! did she not look in a mirror. sugar rachel, you’re testing us with this one. surely! lol
These are, hands-down, my favorite shoes ever. I don’t know why more people aren’t hip to this brand – the shoes are HOT, they’re well-priced (for that category) and ten times more original than the competition.
Buy them, ladies. In multiples!
hotgrl88-That’s because Rachel is in San Francisco.
I’ve definitely brought out some of my linen shift dresses, but I would definitely agree that is not the best example.
My favorite shoes.I love your shoes. did I say my favorite shoes?
Carla
I’ll take responsibility for that hair giving the shirt a run for it’s money. thank you.
I am a complete DvF addict. However, I always wonder if people in other cities wear their DvF wraps sans camisoles. I read the New Yorker profile on Diane vonFurstenberg where she said how much she hated the camisole underneath. I’ve tried to wear mine without one, but always have issues.
At any rate, thanks to Washingtonienne and countless other women, I think the DvF wrap or wrap dresses in general are a working women’s staple in DC.
definately love the look….very cool lookin……….
Holiday–
Yeah, I don’t love them with camisoles underneath either. I think the key is a good bra (I have one that’s more push-uppy and padded than I typically wear, and I noticed that it doesn’t cause the ‘issues’ when i wear it with wrap dresses), good posture and a sense of confidence.
NO CAMISOLE!
Go to Alicia at Imperial Valet (just up the street from where this pic was taken) and have her sew up the bustline to just above where your cleavage starts. I’ve had this done to all four of my precious DVFs, and thank god, because I tend not to notice when the girls decide to come out and play without permission.
The issue is more that I get major cleave and my bra also comes out. What do you mean by sew it up at the bustline? How do I get in/out of it?
Holiday-
Unfortunately, my wrapdresses are techinically no longer “wrap” dresses because I have to slip them on over my head. What I mean by “sewn up at the bustline” is having the V sewn together, so that even if your cleavage wants to pop out, it can’t.
I was hesitant at first, because part of the joy of wearing a wrapdress is being able to slip it on without messing up your hair, but now Alicia is the first person I visit after that Saks box comes in the mail. Apparently it’s a pretty common request, at least according to her.
Great idea!!
Jo you are the best……..
DVF is certainly not daring but this look takes it to a new level of boring. Great staple for work etc. but the camisole is cruel and unusual punishment…
The beauty of a perfect-fit DVF is that without showing gratuitous amounts of skin, you can walk into any room and slackjaw the entire male population. The way that silk jersey drapes *just right* over a woman’s contours — it’s so sexy it shouldn’t be allowed in the office. But it is, so those of us who know how great they are wear them and feel like we’re getting away with something.
They are bound to succeed! What talent!
I think very simple but classy…she brings it all together…..also love the sunglasses…
very attractive lady…….
Awesome post! Can’t wait to see what you have to see about the Democrats in their next debate… I think just like they’re beating the GOP in the money race, most of them are looking a bit snazzier this time around, too.
Oh come on, you don’t need to hire someone to sew it up. It only takes a few stitches in the right spot. If you can sew on buttons you can do this. I’ve done it to every wrap shirt and dress I own, and I’m no seamstress.
(BTW what does DVF stand for?)
C–
Sorry ’bout that; Washington has enough acronyms as it is. It stands for Diane von Furstenberg: http://dvf.com/
Furstenberg is best known in the fashion world for introducing the wrap dress in 1973 and they continue to be sought-after staples…
i love how she mixes black (shoes) with the brown (pencil skirt) and it goes so well!
What about the shoes? Some were pretty bad…
C-
Even if I knew how to sew on a button – which I don’t – I still don’t think I’d trust myself to perform this surgery on a DVF. If I’m going to invest in a dress of this high-quality, I want it done *perfectly*. And $12 on top of $350+ is really not that big of a deal.
Hunter is wearing the EXACT same tie and suit (?) today.
Great post Rachel!
Did I miss the commentary on the Democratic debates? It’s hard for me to judge Republican fashion objectively.
Although she’s very pretty and looks nice and appropriate for an office environment, I think this outfit is really boring. I agree with your suggestion that she spice it up with a punch of color.
I have to disagree with you regarding the “pointy black pump” as a wardrobe staple. The pointy shoes are a trend that’s on its way out. I think a rounded toe pump is the new wardrobe staple. Something a la Christian Louboutin.
http://www.christianlouboutin.fr/
Thanks for the kind words Rachel. To all of my so called “friends” who have felt the need to comment on my alleged hip pop, I would like to invite you to look again. I am sensibly leaning against a wall, not doing a bow-legged hip pop. A word of advice for future subjects of PB…don’t lean against a wall for your photo and don’t attempt the hip pop- clearly you will get mocked.
I’m with Noelle on this one, but not because pointy-toeds are on their way out — I just don’t think they’re all that attractive. Very severe and as I’ve said on here before, difficult to keep from looking stubbed and shabby.
Plus, as my pedicurist told me, the more you wear pointy shoes, the more your feet will start to *permanently* resemble pencil tips. Yick.
Viva la peeptoe!
The purpose of your blog is to prove that Washingtonians have a sense of style, correct? Your blog is actually having the opposite effect on me. I understand a girl has got to make a buck, but before you post your next shameless promotion, people reword your mission statement.
Please replace “people” with “please” when you read that last comment! Thanks!
I really enjoy your blog but I am finding the promotion of Tina Alster and her wannabees hard to stomach. Alster to dermatology is what Andre Chretzy is to hair ..both are WAY overrated and got lucky with Washington magazines.
Brooke-
Since you aren’t aware of the financials surrounding PB, I would advise reconsidering uneducated criticisms. I am not “in the know” about PB’s biz model but did you ever consider that maybe, just maybe the author likes the designer or store and thought she might inform her readers about a good find or neat store without financial gratification????
I don’t think PB is getting any financial compensation or in-kind Catherine Rapetti bag. If so- who cares and good for her! As a former WIDLS client I’m just not interested in supporting her or her store. Besides – if I hear “fabulous” tied to her one more time…Didn’t Kimona Simmons try the same thing?
Fair enough. In an effort to educate myself, can you (Rachel) please inform us if you do or do not received financial compensation for spotlighting certain brands or stores? Thanks!
All-
Just to set the record straight: PB gets uhhh, NO money. Believe me, I wonder at least once a week why I do all of this for no $$. But there ain’t nothin.’ I just truly enjoy having a creative outlet for my passion for writing, Washington culture and people, and all things style. Now that I’ve started the blog, I couldn’t imagine NOT doing it. As someone with a PR background, I definitely understand that assumption; however, I’m a little bummed that people are so jaded. This is not to say that I wouldn’t ever think of advertising, but PB no…doesn’t get paid. Sigh.
In my opinion, Tina, Liberty, and Apres Peau deserve the attention they’re getting. We’ll just have to disagree on that. But I think it’s a shame to trash someone who is successful, smart & interesting.
Um, and I assume you mean Andre Chreky.
I just think she’s overrated – I’ve seen her and Andre that’s why I put them in the same camp. As for the store, I like it.
keep up the good job.
i love your picks of people off the street!
so pretty! it’s also nice to see other anti-fake tanners out and about…
Morgan I totally agree very pretty……..
WOW! The guy in the last picture is one of the hottest guys I’ve seen in DC.
I agree. I LOVE Project Beltway but I’ve been to the store on 14th – total bore!
I was just at ZARA this weekend and they had a ton of great dresses like this! If only I had more occasions to justify them…
I love her green polka-dot slingback flats; but, I can’t help being distracted by her gi-normous calves.
Jaja – why couldn’t you just stop with complimenting her shoes?
Because, S. May, fashion isn’t about stopping short. It’s about the WHOLE picture. Love the shoes, tho!
No – you had to point out something you perceive as negative about one’s physical appearance..
Please send me the sample of your judge’s sheet. thanks!
I agree with Jaja on this one. A girl with calves that size should know to not to wear a hem that hits below the knee. Or even *at* the knee.
Part of being a stylish woman is to be aware of one’s body – its strengths and weaknesses – and knowing how best to highlight the former and downplay the latter.
And there was no “perception” involved in Jaja’s comment — her calves are without question gi-normous.
Johanna & Jaja, listen to yourselves! Not only are you obnoxious, you don’t even realize that you are when someone points it out. I find your constant stream of fashion-magazine-wannabee comments trite and preachy.
Girls like jaja and johanna tear others down to make themselves feel better. Classic
playing up the strengths of one’s body is certainly part of fashion. yet even if you have a strong opinion about the size of a woman’s calves (or hips, or ass, or anything), i’d certainly appreciate it if you kept it to yourself. posting negative comments about a woman’s body in such a public forum — in any forum, really — is destructive and unnecessary.
Sorry but body type is a reality..if you don’t like it, perhaps you shouldn’t read fashion blogs. “Gi-normous” may not have been the most sensitive approach but it’s life. It would be difficult to praise a size 16 wearing a Rosa Cha bikini because no matter how great the suit, it wouldn’t look right. The purpose of a blog is to create a venue to openly discuss topics of interest- I praise everyone for expressing their opinions. Censorship is a far more dangerous poison than negativity. That said, I think her calves are fine but that is the beauty of opinion.
Wow- Everyone looks great!! Blue pants with gold buttoned ankles are heavenly. The guy in the plaid jacket had me until I hit his footwear-A prime example of how to ruin a great outfit with the wrong shoes. Soles that size should be reserved for construction workers and hiking. If you look in your closet and Doc Marten looks back, it’s time for an intervention.
Point taken.
I think using the term “gi-normous” was a mistake, and I apologize for that.
But I still don’t see how what I wrote can be interpreted as “tearing down” this young woman. Pam Anderson has big breasts, Ted Kennedy has a big head, Julia Roberts has a big mouth, and this girl has big calves. It’s an objective fact, not a criticism.
And for those who think my motivations are to build myself up by hurting others, you’re mistaken. In fact, I only commented on this particular picture because I, too, have long lived with disproportionately large calves and I know through trial and error (and yes, fashion magazines, TV shows, etc.) what looks flattering and unflattering when you’re dealing with muscular lower legs.
Had I gone on to critique other, unrelated parts of her body or personality, then I can see where you would call me petty or assume I had insecurity issues, but I didn’t. All I said was that being aware of your body’s strengths and weaknesses is a critical part of getting dressed everyday. If you have big arms, try to avoid fitted sleeves, if you have bacne, forego the halter, if you’re thick in the middle, skip the high-waisted pants/skirts, etc.
Geez, you guys.
love love LOVE the gold sandals in the first pic and the black wrapdress in the second to last one!
Well said, Rachel. And please, if you see a zaftig/plus size/fat woman around dc and you admire her style, take her picture, put it up, and make no mention of her size. That will be a nearly revolutionary act.
“If you’re going to be boring, stay at home.â€
I completely agree.
But I’m also really tiring of the whole “there are no rules to fashion” line people here (and other places) are throwing out as of late. That just *can’t* be the case. On the runway, on the dance club circuit or even on a Saturday in the East Village, yes, but there are still times and venues – work, weddings, graduations, certain restaurants, the theater, parties at the homes of more conservative dressers, etc. – when we *must* place respect for others above our desire to wear an avant garde dress cut-down-to-there, six-inch YSL Tribute pumps or heavy Amy Winehouse-like eye makeup. It’s okay to compromise your style for a night, knowing that you did so out of respect, not pressure to fit in.
It was a nice, thougtful post, Rachel, and I give you a lot of credit for writing it.
She is cute but I am not sure what she has accomplished with this outfit. I am not saying that she can’t pull it off but it truly triggers the concept of girls dressing for girls or girls dressing for guys.
This is definitely a girl dressing for other girls because I don’t think that most guys would be impressed or comprehend the look.
Love the silver sandals too!!
I think her calves look fine. In fact, she’s got great ankles. I wouldn’t call her legs slender or thin, but I think that they are proportionally quite pleasing to the eye.
Which is believe puts the lie to the “objective fact” comment. Subjectively speaking, her legs are shapely. No, not thin, but yes, shapely.
so are you going to show us the whole picture or what? now i’m curious.
Johanna’s right. Know thy body. The shoes are ugly anyway.
What? Big girls can no longer wear skirts? Her calves look proportionate to her body, and actually I’ve seen thinner girls with much uglier legs. Her a-line skirt probably looks great on her figure as it hugs at the thinnest part (waist) and flows away from the body.
I saw this same dress this evening at H&M. Hmmm….
Gi-normous may have I a negative connotation. But it’s already out there so I’ll move on. If you are 5′4″ and 250 pounds, you are fat, right? Meatier than a sloppy joe? It’s not PC but it’s true. Stating the obvious, if you will. Similarly, the lady in the picture has huge calves–actually the hugest I’ve seen in a long while, so I pointed that out. Big deal!
Make no mistake—In no way was I suggesting she should not wear that skirt because of her fleshy calves. I believe 200% in the freedom of fashion and wearing what makes us feel comfortable. No matter your size. I did not intend to put her or anyone down.
Do you have more pictures? I would love to see them!
Maybe she doesn’t dress for girls or guys — she looks like the type of woman who takes pride in dressing for HERSELF.
Personalize? Like with rhinestones?
Sadly there is no way to personalize a tux. There’s only so many ways you can cut a lapel. Us guys are stuck. But something has to be said about how clean a guy looks in a tux…
Oh, that pink dress just ruined my morning. Maybe she should have worn her hair in a side ponytail to complete the 80’s Barbie flashback.
Interesting guy, this Kobold. He wasn’t there was he? Seems like the watches are excellent, and he didn’t just jump in to take advantage of the huge profit potential. Read up on him in Inc.
Men in this city should never, ever , talk about fashion. Of course they would never understand or comprehend this outfit. The men are too busy either eating, or straightening their seersucker sack they’ve put their body, or adjusting their fat man, American, boring square cut dark suit with loafers. I think the women of DC should kick all us men out until we do understand this Casper and her black and white dress.
If the sleeves on the pink dress were more cap-styled like those on the Oscar de la Renta dress, I think I’d like it a lot more. It sorta looks like a t-shirt from the waist-up.
Would’ve gone for a touseled upswept ‘do like Camille’s, too.
I’ll say it again: I think her legs look shapely and proportionate. Moreover, adjectives like “huge”, “tiny”, “gi-normous” (which is a ridiculous word) and others, are totally an indications of one’s perspective and biases–NOT a statement of fact. A statement of fact would be stating that a quadrilateral with 4 equal sides is a square. Saying George Clooney is handsome, while it is an opinion shared by many, is not a fact. Same goes for this woman’s legs. Some of us don’t think they’re fat; others do. Neither of our opinions are based in fact. They’re simply opinions.
I’m trying to make the point that all this talk about “facts” and pseudo-apologizing for not being “PC” is irrelevant. Either you think she looks good in that skirt and shoes, or you don’t.
However, since we’re talking about elegance and “rules”, I’d also like to say that there are elegant, polite, and constructive ways of engaging in a conversation where a stranger’s appearance is at issue. And not everyone in these comments has behaved as lady-like as they want everyone else to be dressing.
Oh, and in response to the 250 lbs, 5′4″ example. Yeah, that person is morbidly obese. Sure that’s a fact. The woman wearing these cute shoes is nowhere near that, and opinions on the size of her calves (which are not morbidly anything) cannot be compared to this example to gain them the “fact” status you’re arguing for so strenuously. What a false analogy!
I don’t think the person commenting on the calves was implying that the girl is fat. I’m small but my legs are short and muscular, and my calves can look gigantic as well. Thus, I avoid wearing flat shoes with skirts that end a below the knee because it looks incredibly frumpy.
Heels or a shorter and slimmer skirt would improve her situation drmatically, I think. Also, I think the angle of photography is not particularly flattering here. I’d love to see the whole picture to get a better idea.
For the record, I’m not a fan of the shoes either– I still have not accepted the pointy toe trend and I hope it goes away soon!
The matching eye shadow, lipstick, and toenail polish sends this risky dress way over the line. Simple, if any accessories and makeup, are a must for a dress this in-your-face.
I just want to add to my comments that when I say someone “should” or “shouldn’t” wear something, it’s completely borne out of the assumption that every woman, when she gets dressed in the morning, wants to look as figure-flattering as she can. One of my readers pointed out to me yesterday, however, that not all women place primacy on this same ideal. Some women, she told me, just want to wear certain items because they like the print or the cut and will do so regardless of the fact that it makes them look 2 sizes bigger than they really are.
Until yesterday, I honestly hadn’t even considered that perspective, but in light of it I have become more flexible in my outlook on the “rules” I set for figure-flattering personal style. On venue-appropriate, however, I’m sticking to my guns.
ugh, the pink dress was heinous – no true southern lady would wear something so tacky. the madras dress in the background is equally bad – hello, it’s a black tie event. maybe it’s similar to the oscar – but oscar wins hands down…everytime.
Colour makes me smile, literally, and I love how these ladies wear their punch of colour! Especially Camilla in blue.
Okay Adam,
I disagree completely. I understand fashion inside and out, backwards and forwards…I also understand the style of this dress but I don’t think it does anything for her or anyone else for that matter. She honestly looks like a toddler on her way to church. My point was that many “looks” that are dominating stores like CUSP, Co-Op, etc. are defintely not appealing to the untrained eye…and if the trained eye could remove itself from the current fashion hype to evaluate the look they just might find that it’s not really that cute.
Theme or not, I cannot support anything going on in either of these pictures…tacky.
Face it – y’all are just jealous that she’s a supermodel and none of you were featured in this fashion spread…she’s gorgeous. Period.
The first dress with those shoes. Yikes.
I am very strict in my view of the tuxedo/dinner suit. It is very much meant to be what it is. There are few things worse in this world (famine, war) than a man trying to personalize his tux with some atrocious thing (colored tie, crazy shoes, ugh).
What you can do is wear your own cuff-links or a pocket watch with chain and fob showing. Little things. Very little things.
Black tie should be black tie. And tie your own tie. It’s not that hard once you’ve done it a couple times. Practice.
Of course, the best thing you can do is own rather than rent so you know it fits properly.
Sure you can point out his neatly folded PS, but what about those horrible shoes? Come on, take him to task for those. How tired are those square-toed black things? Ugh.
He’s also dressed, imo only, very dark for the summer. How about some fresh summer colors?
I agree, granny in the second pic is definitely working the coloured denim trend and in the IT color, mustard yellow. I most love her outfit. It’s chic, yet age-appropriate. Which reminds me of an old(er) woman I saw this weekend sporting the leggings under frayed denim miniskirt. Ughhh! And she was holding the hand of her old(er) husband. From behind—let’s just say it looked sooo wrong. That trend should be buried! And shame on that lady for wearing her teen daughter’s clothes!
Fashion-watching aside, your photography is amazing. The irony–I love the fiery red-orange-yellow colours of the tomatoes.
What a stylish event! And everyone looks so well dressed and ready for the summer. Do you know where Yolonda Linton, the young lady in the first pic, sells her stuff? I adore those electric blue trousers with the cute gold buttons! And Katie Rost is chic as usual. Wish I could have made it—darn!
Jaja — I thought you were the one who didn’t believe in fashion rules of any sort. Are you now saying women over a certain age shouldn’t wear certain trends?
Just checking…
This pink cupcake look was even worse in person. And madras dress was topped off with a matching bandanna – yikes! And I think the blue dress may be slipped in from another event – definitely not taken from TOTS.
Owning a tux is an essential. Think, cost per wear. Other than ditching the clip on bow tie, I disagree with the tie/cumberbund comment. While the Texas flag is most appropriately used when flown over the capitol and not under a tuxedo, a vineyard vines can be a fun way to personalize your tux!
He was wearing a driving moc, and the upper features leather piping that’s rounded. The toe-box underneath that rounded part is somewhat squared off (as is the back which really is the style for this kind of shoe), but I don’t mind that really in a moc, because it makes them a bit sporty.
Now on polished leather dress shoes–yes. I tend to not like super square-toed shoes.
Ah, that explains it. My crap monitor can’t show me that much detail. Still not a fan of driving mocs, anyway.
I just can’t make up my mind about this sports coat with jeans look. On the one hand, sometimes it looks good, but I’m kinda sick of seeing it. Thankfully this guy’s shirt is tucked in (I assume).
Pardon me but who is Missy and why is she even relevant in that potato sack ensemble? Call extreme makeover!
I’m not talking about this dress, this toddler costume as you put it. I’m talking about your malaise towards fashion. The basic premise of cutting up woven cloth to shield our bodies is stupid in the first place so why not have fun with it? Your assertion is that people should dress in what looks simple, obvious, and safe….boring! I love NY because a dude can walk into the subway in a brown paper sack and you love it! It looks dumb, doesn’t make sense, but at least makes you think for a second. Safe and nice are crap; take risks, make a fool out of yourself, and at least appeal to someone’s eye, trained or not.
Who is Missy? Um Missy Edwards is only one of Washingtonian’s 2006 10 best dressed women in DC. And that is Carlisle that she is wearing which is a classic.
Someone asked if there were more pictures–there are like, 2. I’m telling ya, when faced with the choice between stuffing my face with crawfish & cheese grits & ribs and taking pictures, this time I chose to mainly enjoy the party. Trying to take pictures with a drink in hand is always a challenge, so I often don’t drink at these things.
I found the dress to be more of a funny take on the party theme than anything…and I liked that she was having fun with that. How about I post my one other photo tomorrow…
I also have a fabulous picture featuring something that I know all of the guys will love & be jealous of…but a certain someone (you know who you are) is embarrassed to have his photo posted.
( ;
Aren’t y’all cuuuuurious…!!?
I saw the girl in the brown earlier in the evening and she had on a kickass trovata trenchcoat that looked smashing. Rachel – all your shots are great! I love the gals in the last picture too! The first girl is a bit too preppy for me but ok. Keep up the good work!
Driving mocs are fantabulous. They are my uniform. I think he looks great- smart, comfy, but classy. For a flashier spin on teh driving moc, check out Tod’s new patent leather one- I just ordered mine from NM…
Christmas in May if you ask me!
http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod34220152&parentId=cat7420735&masterId=cat000550&index=25&cmCat=cat000000cat000470cat000526cat000550cat7420735
The first dress and the “toga” style dress are stunning. Its Vera, so they are all going to be amazing but I get cheezed out by weddings so the fresh spin on the first two are much appreciated- gorgeous and glamorous!
The scariest part of the girl in madras is that she either has a tattoo on her ankle or is wearing an ankle bracelet.
Tres Chic!
and now that you brought the tatoo/anklet to attention-check out the shoes-yikes.
I’m not sure what’s so hot about the guy’s outfit. It’s very meh. The white shirt is uninspired, his jacket sleeves are too long, the coat itself should be better tailored (could be the angle, but it looks a little roomy on him) and he’s got to lose the driving mocs. They don’t work with the cuffed jeans. He needs something a little sleeker with to balance everything out. The mocs would be better suited to a pair of linen trousers.
jennifer–
i dunno, i don’t think so. i think the mystery is far more interesting at this point. and honestly, i really just loved her shoes; the outfit wasn’t much to write how about.
i really want everyone to know that i wasn’t *just* addressing weight issues in writing this. i want people to really think past the “he should have worn this with that instead” stuff…this site is about the celebration of style, in its varied forms, here. folks, no one is going to look awesome head-to-toe (and besides, who gets to decide what “awesome head-to-toe” looks like?) all that often, especially in DC. often i’ll take someone’s photo and their outfit isn’t necessarily something i’d wear, but there’s something cool about it, about them. that’s what this is about, mostly. and i just hope that people reading will think a bit more broadly about style.
You can get that black wrap dress and order those hot blue pants right at On Lokation’s secret;-) showroom. Its 1937 14th St. NW ste 203. open thursday-saturday and by appt.
Thanks for checking in Kellie since I hadn’t seen the comments asking where to get everything!
Best-kept secret in Washington…!?
Silks and satins are very unforgiving fabrics, but these ladies pull it off quite wonderfully.
For being “top 10 best dressed” is that a hair-tie (aka rubberband) that she is sporting on her wrist? One would think that with such a large purse on her arm, surely it could hold a rubberband? Fashion is in the details! But, new to this site, and Rachel- I think you’re fabulous.
There is no way Betsey Johnson made that dress. Little Bo-Peep called, wants her pepto-bismol version returned…
I’m actually a fan of the driving mocs with the cuffed jeans…it’s a fun mix of preppy and kind of mod jeans. And as for the jacket…I don’t think the sleeves are too long, but you can’t see his shirt sleeve so maybe that’s what’s off about it, you should always see a bit of shirt sleeve. But as for a white shirt…you can never go wrong. He looks classic. Not everyone needs to be blazing with color and bling.
T-fab:
It’s a *HAIR TIE*…whoopdeedoo! That means she has no style? Come on. You see stars with them on all of the time; really I kind of like that she didn’t feel the need to overanalyze every single thing.
Besides, this site isn’t about tearing apart every little thing people are wearing.
The best items from that second picture, in my opinion, are the two handbags. Love the Goldenbleu tote and the white oversized clutch.
The “best dressed” woman isn’t doing much at all for me. Are those matchy-matchy mocha separates, or is it a dress? I can’t tell, but I really hope it isn’t the former.
Adam-
In no way did I imply that people should dress simple or safe-I would venture to say that I take more risks than 99% of Washingtonians and a large percentage of New Yorkers- since you don’t know me, you wouldn’t know. The point is- you can take risks and win. You could wear a paper bag and it might look hot. I just don’t think this particular look does anything for this girl (she is very pretty) and while the dress may align with current trends, it’s not a winner. In fact, had it been worn in a riskier fashion, I might like it…an oversized blue belt, a chunky lucite bracelet, gold earrings- pick your poison but as is I’m not a fan.
The calves are fine. The shoes are horrid.
you guys are overanalyzing everything!!!
tb-
What do you mean by “overanalyzing?” Are we simply to say an outfit is “good” or “bad” without explaining how we came to that conclusion?
Gorgeous they both look great……
I’m just saying… it’s a slightly drab outfit, and I would have loved to see a fabulous bracelet… I think a bold accessory would really bring it together, or at least bump it up a notch.
She’s the chick that had Lily Allen play at her engagement party in April. Who cares what she’s wearing!
Fair enough… and I do LOVE her shoes!!
I just found this blog today and was very interested to come across this “debate.” I’d like to consider myself a very fashionable person and I believe that love of fashion comes from the fact that I am nearly plus-sized (a size 12-14). I learned that in order to get any respect as a bigger girl, you have to look put together much more so than others. If you’re big and sloppy, people just won’t give you the time of day.
That being said, I don’t think that I dress overly trendy because of my size. I can’t wear most of the trends right now (skinny jeans, trapeze dresses, etc.) because of my size, but there are definitely other “fashionable” things I can pull off that skinny-minnies cannot (huge, chunky jewelry, wide belts). I think that fashion should be fun and if a woman loves the way she looks in her clothes, then that should be good enough. Style is about confidence and the way your clothing exudes your personality.
Rachel,
COME BACK!!! I’ve surfed the entire internet trying to find something to keep me from checking your site every 3 seconds. I need more PB!!
I am so glad you had a great time back home your description is breathtaking..reminds me of my summers in Michigan….ahhh to be a kid again. Glad your back safe and sound…….
Rachel!!
Wonderful photography and a lovely description of your time coming home. Always great to see you… take good care of DC!
Peace,
Burr
I *still* vacation up in northern Michigan every Summer, and I agree, Rachel’s description brought back all sorts of lakeside nostalgia! Especially the drive-in — it doesn’t get more “home” than a two-movie special in your parents’ car.
I especially liked the pink ruffled swimsuit photo – God knows we all had that peek-a-boo shot at one point in our lives!
Actually Jo I am leaving tomorrow nite for Michigan for the weekend…..Grand Haven area…and also Spring Lake……ahh it brings back so many good memories…….Rachel again
thanks for the memories……
The whole point of a tuxedo is to provide a neutral backdrop to showcase what a man’s date is wearing. With that in mind, a tuxedo should be as classic as possible: one-button, peak-lapelled (or shawl-collared if you have the moxie to pull it off), grosgrain facing preferred, jetted pockets, white shirt with pique front and turndown collar. It goes without saying that the tie should be a bow tie and tied by the wearer. That alone will set you apart from the hordes wearing three-button, notch-lapelled monstrosities with clip-on bow ties.
If you are going to an event stag and the dress code is not strict, the easiest way to personalize black tie is to switch out the black jacket to a velvet jacket in a dark color or a cream-colored, shawl-collared number.
The sportscoat with dark jeans look is neither stylish nor original when done right, and in this case, it’s not even done right. It looks like Adam got home from work, took off the tie, and slapped on a pair of cuffed jeans and loafers. I agree with rdhd and JC — he would be better off with a more summery jacket and linen slacks. I would also switch the bit loafers (Gucci?) from black to brown suede and the shirt from white (too business-y) to a pattern, possibly a check.
Absolutely men hate dress-over-jeans, while women keep on doing it. I’ve pushed my bf to acknowledge that a “tunic” over jeans is usually okay, but only if you couldn’t wear it as a dress, ever. We bicker over where the top has to hit the thigh to make jeans underneath not the biggest sartorial sin possible.
We’ve gathered evidence among men. This one is a no-no. He even quotes What Not To Wear in his arguments, which is unprecedented. I don’t even know how he picked it up.
It seems to me that guys hate hate hate capri pants. Hence the picture.
Sooo letsee what do I not like in men’s clothing. Well, square-toed pilgrim shoes, cheap too-big suits, overly tapered or too-short jeans. I hate anything fussy or too buttoned-up looking. Tons of guys in DC have that problem–they’re so scrubbed and shaven and tan and hair-gelled that they’re no longer masculine. This is perhaps why I’m basically a sucker for stuff like a sweaty guy in Carhartt pants coming off a hard day’s work at the farm.
mm.
my male bff HATES oversized sunglasses. he just gives me this look every time i put them on. when he does this, i enjoy bringing up the fact that he works socks with sandals when i first met him. it usually gets him quiet pretty quickly.
i’ve also heard a lot of complaints about cropped/capri pants. as my father says, “this isn’t the depression! can’t you afford a full pair of pants??”
another thing i hate on guys (that they seem to love): bright white sneakers, the huge k. swiss-like ones. ewwww.
Ladies, please stop wearing the skimpy-blouse-and-Seven-jeans uniform to go out. If you promise to do this, we promise to stop wearing the stripey untucked shirt, bootcut jeans, and black, square-toed shoes.
Kathryn, a week or two ago I threw on an H&M shirtdress over some slim black pants and got more compliments (by men and women, but mostly men) than I ever have on an outfit, and I normally wear cute stuff. Maybe it’s because the dress was very small, which is why I was wearing it over the pants in the first place, but my point is that the dress-over-jeans thing CAN be alluring and sexy. I’m attracted to girls myself and I can’t stop staring when I see one who’s wearing a well-fitted version of that combination.
Bravo, Mr. Corporate Flunky–a point I think both men and women can agree upon! I’m so very tired of that going out uniform.
A great post, Rachel. And the funny thing is that original picture has stayed with me–I was going to come back yesterday to comment on it, as I thought it was such a perfect dress on the perfect woman for it.
Not that these are in style anymore (thankfully), but overalls look hideous on both women and men!
Oh heck, I’m full of opinion so here goes. But first, my caveats/qualifiers:
I’m a guy
On women I prefer a 40s/50s vintage sort of look or an up-to-date “smart” look. My wife pulls these off beautifully
For myself, I like to combine good colors and dress a bit dandy-ish at times.
On women I hate:
the current trend of empire-waisted shirts and dresses, enough already, how about some variety;
ill-fitting pants, be they capris or anything else;
those horrible long shorts;
But I love:
glasses;
skirts;
peep-toe shoes;
On guys I hate:
the Am-jack look (stripey shirt, square-toed black shoes, etc.);
ill-fitting suits (or worse, the pained expression of “having” to wear a suit);
the indie-rocker look;
tennis shoes w/ suit.
On both I hate:
flip-flops anywhere but at the beach or in your home;
undrewear showing;
costumes (look at my 80s shirt!);
looking too “I don’t care” or “I shop at thrift stores.” You could at least try to match;
backpacks with business wear.
And more than anything I hate women who assume they know more than me about my wardrobe and what I should wear just because they are a woman and I’m a man. They are wrong 95% of the time.
That’s all I can think of right now.
1. denim shirts – short and long sleeved
2. denim shorts – short and bermuda-length
3. braided leather belts
4. polos with company/sports team logos
5. sunglasses with nylon lanyards
6. denim shirts (sorry, once wasn’t enough)
7. cell phone holsters
8. pleated tapered cuffed khakis
9. button-down collars on dress shirts
10. really nice dress shirts untucked over jeans (blech)
But then again, I would take the fussy put-together London look (i.e. spread collar with French cuffs, half-Windsor knot, Church’s shoes etc.) over casual bbq attire ANY DAY on a man…
Most guys I know (boyfriend at the time included) could not stand the whole Ugg boot trend. Girls thought they were cute and comfy, whereas guys thought they were downright dowdy.
As for guys, I totally agree with Rachel’s comment. DC guys are way too polished for my taste. Of course I want my man to look nice, but I don’t want him to take longer getting ready than I do. There’s a fine line.
Love the white with the punches of citrus color, but I’m not sure about the other outfit. If you’re going to do the whole dress + jeans look, I think your jeans need to fit fitted, skinny jeans. Hers are too baggy and it makes the look seem messy. Unintentionally so, I should add.
Agree with Noelle– the jeans are too big altogether (look at how much she had to roll them up on top of them being too baggy!) and the necklace is a bit too long and too chunky for the outfit. The overall look is stylish but a little on the frumpy side. Nevertheless, she’s cute as hell and I love her sandals.
The woman on the left has a great outfit that comes together beautifully, except her shoes are too big! It’s pretty bad when you can see that from a picture. How can she walk in them?
They’re both gorgeous women with a very good sense of style, though.
overalls are totally in again, dude. muhahahaha.
http://www.hel-looks.com/?p=image/archives/15/20060918_01/
How I love the slip n slide!! Home is always where the heart is, but this country girl is glad you’re back in the city!
This string cracks me up! My fiance hates my giant sunglasses. He calls me Buggo when I wear them.
For me-
1- Trucker hats, unless you own a John Deere.
2- Leggings with a cropped shirt (don’t care if you’re a size negative 14 or a 14w) I have seen this in DC WAY too many times!! Leggings and a longer shirt- if you can pull it off, rock out, but I *hate* the short shirt/leggings look.
3- Belly shirts. 1992 called, want their look back.
4- Gentlemen, hopefully this goes without saying, but fishnet/mesh shirts are NEVER appropriate.
Everything else has been covered.
Johanna- I actually just saw a guy at lunch with a denim shirt and denim shorts on… and, to put frosting on your cake- his denim shirt had an Orlando Magic logo!!!
That is absurd. As a male, I think she is cute and stylish, from what I can tell. Carpi-like seersucker is preppy sexy. If a woman is stylish and hot, men will notice and appreciate both.
Cargo Shorts-nothing ruins a guy more than when you look at his oh so attractive face and then look down to discover that he is sporting side pockets.
T-fab:
you just gave me chills *and* a flashback to a time when I dated a man who showed up not only with a denim-on-denim ensemble but a denim-on-denim-on-denim (jacket, too) one. A quick and relentless intervention was engaged.
I wrote a post on this on my blog a few months ago, and I admitted that one of the major drawbacks to dating older men is their struggle to pull off the weekend casual wear. Suits they’ve got down but once Saturday rolls around, especially a *warm* Saturday…oh man, it is not pretty.
Johanna,
That’s not just an older guy thing. Well, I don’t know what you consider older, but I’m 35 and my summer weekend wardrobe is not great. I admit it. For all my opinions, I’m sporting some horrible shorts and an old snowboarding t-shirt right now. Not a great look.
Fall/winter weekend, I’m fine. Spring/summer weekday/work, I’m fine. Maybe it’s my aversion to the heat (any heat).
Offhand:
My boyfriend and male friends hate on women:
Tevas or Birkenstock sandals
Dresses over jeans
Jersey Culotte/Gaucho Pants
Huge Sunglasses (A la Posh Beckham)
Pointy toe shoes (otherwise known as “elf shoes” – in particular the one that curl up at the end, especially on boots)
I do not like on men:
Tevas or orthopedic looking sandals.
Preppy popped collar shirts with madras pants. Blech!
Also failed to mention:
The oversized beaded “Mrs. Roper” beads that women seem to think are fashionable. Why don’t you just put on the house coat and yell for “Stanleeeyyy”!
Final fashion stink:
Tassled shoes on men. Never trust a man in tassled shoes.
C – I am with you on what I call “tunic” over jeans. That can look fantastic. That’s long tops/dresses too short to wear with any sense of decency.
For your example, I think your black pants may have made the look even chic-er than jeans.
However, my BF and his friends have seen actual full-on dresses over jeans (as have I), and hated the look so much they’ve extrapolated to almost any long shirt. If it covers your butt, they think it’s too long. (that’s the point of bickering difference)
i second or third guys’ hatred of gaucho pants, uggs, empire waist dresses and shirts (my boyfriend always feigns horror and pats my stomach – “just checking for babies”) and capri pants – as a friend used to put it, “pants or shorts! just make up your mind!”
another guy friend just piped up: halter tops and jeans that are too low on the derriere.
for menswear, you all have hit the big ones. i really detest unpolished, scuffed dress shoes. they ruin an otherwise polished look, and i see so many guys on the metro like this.
i really dig that dress – rachel do you know the designer or where she got it?
Johanna:
Oh no. Oh no. Please tell me you opted for a “night in” instead of heading out and about with Denim Dan…
rdhd:
Personally, I love a guy’s weekend cas wear to be khaki shorts, and a classic button down shirt with the sleeves rolled up (obviously just once or twice, we’re not talking past the elbow here..)
And of course, a good tan goes a LONG way!!! I’m a big fan of the “I just got done sailing” look.
One thing I hate: When girls say Name of boyfriend “doesn’t like me in this or doesn’t like my hair like that.” Who cares? I like the idea of knowing what both sexes don’t like about the other’s tastes in general, but the dressing for your boyfriend thing is ridiculous. Guys don’t really care in the reverse of the situation… and if they do, they have to make one HELL of an effort.
i won’t speak for anyone else who mentioned a significant other here, but i was citing my boyfriend’s comment purely for humorous purposes. i agree – wear what you want, period!
Sorry — totally didn’t mean to call anyone here out! I have a couple of friends who recently went on and on about that, and they always dwell on it, that I just had to say something somewhere. But yes, everyone wear what you want!
A good rule of thumb is to stay away from anything worn by Paris, Nicole, or Lindsay.
The oversized sunglasses, already mentioned, is the worst offense. Also a no-no: logoed wear and accessories. What does a Louis Vuitton purse say other than “I’m a fashion lemming”? And ladies, just because you have ten fingers doesn’t mean you have to be wearing rings on every one of them.
Corporate Flunky-
don’t forget about Britney!
alright, so I’m the boyfriend (not husband) of the original subject of all this…the black and white flowy dress on the redhead…
I will not touch men in this city for the vast majority are fashion retarded to put it nicely. So here’s my list of what I dislike about DC women fashion, all of which my lovely girlfriend follows, usually…
1. Comfy without trend- Uggs were okay, and are okay, because they are trendy and cute. But flip flops, baggy sweatshirts, sweatpants….come on. Have some respect for the people’s eyes around you. you might love to be “comfy” to and from work but you make this city look like an ugly slumber party for the cankled masses.
2. Sneakers- Belongs above but it needs special mention. Unless they are Italian designer Pumas or limited edition campers, PLEASE do not wear sneakers outside the softball pitch or gym. You look like a college intern or a dweeb from the country.
3. Hair- It all starts there. Really ladies? Unless you’re going to the hair cuttery, no one is going to think down of you on the hill or K st if your hair has SOMETHING special going on.
4. The drab- I could go on and on but I will stop here. The problem with women in the city is the drab. They buy the safest thing, either what they see in a committee room or what there sorority sisters wear to Dupont on Saturday nights. Men love, LOVE, an individual. If you wore a swan around your neck we will talk to you. If you wore a red dress with green shoes and a yellow necklace, we will buy you the bottle not the glass. If you wear tight jeans, pointy shoes, and a black blouse, we will talk to you last and already be bored when we see you. Show yourself, your true self…if you’re boring, uptight, republican, then flaunt it. Wear black and gray and military boots, but please just show who you are. I have no idea who most of the women are in the city but many of them look like Ann Taylor to me. And I don;’t want to date Ann.
I like the jewelry. Necklace matching the dress, bracelet matching the shoes.
I have this great blousy shirt that’s a bit tuxedo-ish. My girl friends think is adorable- my ex would roll his eyes like crazy every time I put it on. I also think guys don’t get the whole layering thing. Layering is truly an art, gentlemen.
sb’s comment made me think of something…for some reason, none of my guy friends – who range in age from early 20s to late 40s – like my rosette-adorned/ruffled *anything*. I have these great black peeptoes with a rosette fastened right above the “peep” and so far, women have loved them while men give it the “eh, they’re okay” verdict which we all know is tantamount to “that’s sh*t’s no good.” Same with a black silk halter that has a ruffled tuxedo-bibbing. “It’d be better with all that mess down the front,” one said to me as we sat down to dinner.
Why not, guys? Why not?
And for the record, I still wear both ALL THE TIME.
nice necklace. how appropo.
Is that Rakiyt(on right)? She a local designer for the label ‘the original david.’ Fab. Love the Ninja turtle.
After the “controversy” about the calves-only pic, thanks for showing a larger woman without apologizing. She has a great fashion sense, which is the point, right?
alison–
i totally asked her, and then totally forgot. grahhhh. ) :
Sorrrrreeeeee….
and jamy,
yes!
& it was not just to get people to think beyond size, but to also think beyond “dos” or “don’ts” for style in DC.
I love the dress with the crumb-catcher and the “Washed silk crepe back satin strapless bias gown with draped bodice and antique bow brooch.”
I just wanted to pipe in and say that I wear capri pants and I don’t care! I find that I get fewer mean comments about the whiteness of my legs when I opt for capris rather than shorts. And no, I can’t tan. Nor do I want to!
Rachel: Do you know where she got that necklace? I love it! Hope all is well…
Michael Spaulding is as good looking as his shoes! Question is – Is he as comfortable?
I met Gunmetal Shoes before I did a big trade show in Hong Kong. Packing light, I accidently left my flats in NYC and headed to HK with 4inch Gunmetals. Four days later – still on my feet and still fine. The only shoe I have ever taken out of a box and put on and worn…all day.
I’m up to five pairs now – each one completely different and wildly comfortable…and gorgeous! So the question remains…..
Jeez, no one’s commented yet? I will:
Don’t wear what he’s wearing.
But I love his commentary, especially this: “Some jerky will wear an ascot … and you’ll envy him.” I wish I could wear an ascot, but I’d look like a tool.
rdhd
hmmm, just reading the comments here and thinking– i am a bit confused. am i just as comfortable? like an old t-shirt on a rainy day? like leather seats in a 3.0? like a george smith sofa in front of a roaring fire? well, yes, in these cases i think i am, and ahem, maybe even more so (ehehe). but i am shy, so if you see me out and about, i am most likely not comfortable and therefore sticking close to the wall or bar, so please, come and talk to me! thanks joanne, rima, carla and lisa! you are all beautiful dreams!!!
a “caffeinated epiphany”? really? no offense, but that doesn’t make any sense.
OK….well then a caffeine epiphany/revelation. Whatever. You knew what I meant. Jeez.
Katie–
I wish I did!! She told me she’d email me to tell me, but I never heard from her. I’m pretty sure she said it was from Spain though (of course!).
It was really gorgeous in person.
wow, I want to do this SO badly! Sounds like a blast! This would probably turn out a lot better than the bag I made out of two bandanas and some embroidery thread.
a caffeinated epiphany does make sense. this writing is meant to be evocative and expressive, not biologically or metaphysically precise. your comment is a bit silly jj.
oh man i love these girls, color wee!
Kenny, Kenny, Kenny…
Really? Those pants? Boys and girls- take note. Kenny’s pleats add an easy 20 lbs on his slim frame. Throw in an additional 10 lbs. by allowing them to ride a few inches too high. I know that pleats are beloved in Washington but really, take a look, gents. Not cute.
First guy is a fox!
Sorry to contradict, but pleated trousers are supposed to be worn at your natural waist. If you let them sag they billow and give you the diaper look–hence why so many young men look like idiots in them. Pulling them to your waist lets the pleats flatten as you stand, and the cuffs add weight to the leg to help that.
Now, skinny people really don’t need pleats (single at most) like us fuller-figured guys do. So that part I’ll agree with: skinny + lots of pleats looks bad. But it still won’t make him look the least bit fat.
rdhd
It’s not the same, but if you liked her necklace, you might like some of these designs:
http://wedreamincolour.com/jade/shrinky_007.html
They’re offering 20% off through June 30 with the code INSTYLE07…
I’ll comment on the tres chicas in the first pic once I find something nice to say…I adore the grey and white dress the cute blonde is wearing. It’s so refreshing and pseudo-vintage at once.I cannot get enough of bows and her shoes are just the cherry on top of a lovely outfit.
jaja
Rachel– You’re so right about the point on 81, where you’re finally in the mountains and can roll the windows down and enjoy the fresh air. From one SWVa gal to another, well done!
Wrong! Heavier people have even more reason to avoid pleats – you have fallen prey to a very common misconception. Pleats add weight- plain and simple. You cannot tell me that when you look at the picture (above) that you know for certain he is not hiding a big gut or strangely shaped waist, hips, or butt under that balloon. One can imagine that based on his size and stature above the plets, that he is slim but its not a given. Additionally by beginning that ballooning at “natural waist” you are really leaving even more up the imagination…and not in a good way.
For starters, that guy in the picture looks skinny to me. There is no indication whatsoever that he is hiding anything within those pleats (no offense sir!). There is no balloon there (at least not caused by pleats, maybe you’re seeing something (that I’m not) caused by baggy pants).
I am wearing pleated pants right now and they do not balloon or billow out at all. Why? Because I wear them at my waist so the pleats lay flat. Why do I wear pleats with my gut? Because they give more room when I sit. They accomadate my keys and change (which flat fronts don’t do well at all without being horribly baggy). And they help to hide my stomach by being worn at my waist.
This is like telling a woman with a stomach to not wear a wrap-around dress because it will cause confusion as to whether that’s the dress gathered there or her stomach. That’s the point, it’s meant to hide.
I am sorry, but you are just wrong on this issue. Flat out wrong.
She looks cute, but I think Asian girls have it extremely easy when it comes to finding clothes that fit right and look flattering on them. Most Asian girls, such as this one, don’t have much in the way of curves to work around.
* See also: why Japanese girls can wear outfits that are completely wacky and INSANE and still look good in them.
FYI, Mayorga has a nice branch inside the Tivoli Theatre on 14th St.
The necklace is hand made from a silk scarf by a very fine Mexican designer… similar to Hermes. Each of the jewlery pieces are different. Some of their products can be seen online at – http://www.pinedacovalinusa.net
I just read these comments – sorry it took so long to respond. Ya’ll are sweet.
If you want a necklace – there might be another way to get one. Email me, and if you’re local to DC maybe a friend of mine in Mexico can hook you up! k_snell@hotmail.com
Amy-
I’m not sure what you mean by “curves,” but if you’re using the definition I go by, I think the gentle contour of the stomach-to-hips is hands-down the sexiest part of a woman’s body. Having watched my Asian mother shop out of necessity in the children’s department her entire life (even adult petites in size 0 dwarf her frame) only confirms how happy I am my Kentuckian father won out in that particular part of my genetic makeup.
I lived in Asia for two years, and even by the end, I would still mistake 35 year old women for 7th grade boys if I only saw them from behind. I did then and I do now feel sorry for them and their utter lack of a feminine shape, because unlike fat thighs or even small breasts, there is nothing a woman with a straight up-and-down torso can do to achieve the hourglass silhouette. Not even a surgical procedure, to my knowledge.
Now if you meant “curves” to mean “heavy in the middle,” that’s a different story…
Johanna-
I too agree the stomach-to-hip hourglass shape is the sexiest part of a female anatomy, but I would have to disagree with you that asian women have NO curves. I am asian, and I do have some curve, but it isn’t as prominent as that of a Latino woman for example. It’s really difficult to find clothes that hugs my curves in the states, as most are not cut to my shape. I happen to be 35, and although I do have a more “boyish” figure, if I dressed in a dress, no one would mistaken me as a 7th grader. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and clothes can accentuate or worsen one’s natural looks. So, Amy, I wish I could wear some of the stuff that nonasians wear so beautifully. Grass is always prettier on the other side.
Joanna-
I didn’t mean to imply *all* Asian women were curve-free, only that my experiences – which included my Mom’s struggle to shop and the very boyish figures I saw in China – have made me appreciate my pronounced curves that much more.
Das ist alles.
Maybe you spend these efforts on your own blog.
asn-
I don’t get it.
Is that an inquiry or a suggestion?
A tent would help to hide your stomach too…you’ve just proven my point without knowing it.
Why can people not grasp the concept that “more material does not mean hidden?”
You have to wear what you feel comfortable in but you along with many Americans suffer from “fashion dismorphia.”
Lastly, I do not think that Kenny actually looks “heavy” but he certainly does not look as slender as he would in flat front.
Dysmorphia..that is.
ummm, they’re khakis, people. you’re obsessing. he looks good. leave it at that.
“You cannot tell me that when you look at the picture (above) that you know for certain he is not hiding a big gut or strangely shaped waist, hips, or butt under that balloon.”
Haha–wow. You are right. He is probably hiding a deformed hip bone or obese butt. I know that’s why I wear pleated khakis. To hide my obesity. Thankfully, all of my obesity is located in my lower stomach and upper thighs. Phew. Thanks for pointing this out.
if you look closely, it appears as if his tie is undone. hanging lower than it normally would, it gives the appearance that his pants are hiked up. the angle change line on a tie must always be equal with the belt.
i think he looks snappy enough. and she looks … simply delectable.
What THE POLITICO’s Kenny Day wore to the Courage Cup’s kick-off party (see photo above) is, well, okay, but just okay. My problem is that he could have just as easily worn the outfit to the office.
Preppy need not be boring, but the look does demand that creativity find its expression in “strikingly subtle” ways. (E.g., a very small, well-chosen and colorful flower in the jacket’s left-lapel hole, or truly interesting cufflinks.)
As for Day’s pleated khakis: I know they’re a DC-standard, but that’s truly regrettable. I get RDHD’s point about pleated trousers worn waist-high. In my opinion, howsoever, the only folks who do that well are the Brits when they wear waist-high BESPOKE trousers with one pair of INWARD-pointing (not outward-pointing, as the rest of the world wears them) pleats — WITH BRACES. (Think classic Savile Row, bespoke trousers, and they way the can sort of hang on a gent’s frame.)
Really, though, the District ought to enact a carbon-emission trading scheme, but for pleated trousers instead of greenhouse gases.
To Day’s credit, his two-button blue blazer (sans pseudo-gold or brass buttons) looks sharp enough.
In contrast, Carolyn wore a dress that (a) wouldn’t be mistaken for office wear; (b) has a nice line, so far as I can tell; and (c) while not possessing the fiercest of palletes, is nonetheless colorful and expressive enough.
Kenny’s outfit: C/C-
Carolyn: B/B+
Yusuf’s outfit is pretty fierce, in terms of colors and details — the lime-ish green bandana covering the expressive hair; the “green-ful” tie-dyed t-shirt that reveals layer below at the sleeves, and has “rocker” scrawled on the back; the forest green and white Air Jordan b-baller shorts; the black socks with what looks like patterns of green ganja leaves; the black pumas.
I’d give Yusuf a B+/A-.
What would propel him into full-fledged “A” territory, though, would be if he were throw an unexpected splash of warm color somewhere. Red or burnt orange in the beads, or ONE green, white and red striped armband, or a purple and orange bike? — a little something to throw-off his palette so that it doesn’t border on predictable, and instead makes him seem like he’s not just trying to match, but also trying to complement and play with colors schemes.
In general, though, well done.
Dear Commenters-
The rest of the world has acknowledged that pleats are not cool, nor figure flattering, nor handsome. Why DC, why can you not let them go? And if you so choose to wear them, why defend them so valiantly? Sad.
AHHH! I love it so much I can’t stand it. Can’t help but love the technicolor sneaks.
The woman in the white boatneck shift with black leather cut-out belt – the “secret” dress – is hands-down wearing my favorite look of the night. Pearl studs, simple black peeptoes — perfection.
But didn’t you post a woman with a brown or black skirt and white shirt because she wore it well? Sometimes classiness is pretty important and patterns don’t always work…
Besides, one thing I would say regarding the mission is that if you want to prove D.C. has style, you have to realize that yes, D.C. has it’s own style, and it doesn’t have to be a certain crazy way like NYC’s or be described in a way that would be perfect for the pages of Seventeen magazine — that’s just not this city, and it doesn’t have to be. Every city is different.
I really do like your blog, but maybe you should think about what the people “doing D.C.” are doing well and contextualize it a little more in that way. You’re not finding the cream of the real D.C. culture. Maybe you should give that a try.
Bored.
This is very similar to your “simple and elegant posting” from Wednesday… except that she’s wearing shorts instead of a skirt and high heals instead of flats.
I love, love, LOVE the girl in the yellow tank and patterned skirt. Bright, interesting and pretty. Can’t beat it.
Amazing! Where can I find this cutting-edge look? She must have traveled to the Republic of Banana to come up with that creation. Thanks for the inspiration.
She looks amazing. Simple black and white makes a huge statement. She’s a beautiful woman.
Hi Rachel: Glad you had fun the other night and it was great to meet you. Please send me a pic of you logo and I will add your link to our home page for a couple of months and then it will go to the favorite links page we are working on. Have A Lucky Day!
As tacky as is sounds, as a Nigerian I love the combination of green and white. And he seems like a cool dude. I like his “vibe.”
This photo is giving ne a major headache! ARRRRRRRRR. Leave the 80s in the history books where it belongs!
I love Nana! everytime I go in to the store I leave with a bag, it’s hard not to buy something in this store.
Wow. Definitely a head-turner…I’m not sure if that’s a good thing in this case!!!
You can “have fun with it” without wearing a costume or making yourself a mockery. He is looking a fool and confirming stereotypes the rest of us have to live down.
Well, I did it. It was my first time in the store and I loved the dresses! But the event was not planned very well; I don’t think they were expecting a large crowd. I made an appointment but had to wait for a half hour. The fabrics were beautiful and there were plenty to choose from but the construction of the bag was not well made, there was no base (structure) to the bag which made it flimsy. I wanted a reversible bag and had to find someone else who was willing to swap fabrics with me, luckily I did. Overall the process was fun.
yeah, i’m usually into the street pics but i would”ve passed on this one, dull…
Both looks in the first pic hit each of the ladies in all the wrong places. Boobs are a powerful thing. Knowing how to accentuate/compliment your bust can make or break your outfit. Blue looks overly busty and even saggy and white looks flat. Both could have been avoided with cuts that suit their bodies.
First three girls look like “Barbie and Rockers (not in a good way).” Grey is perfection!
Well, at least no one’s bored:
http://www.projectbeltway.com/?p=314#comments
( ;
If this is the same Katie Smith who went to lunch at Busara in Reston last Wednesday, you need to back off. Project Beltway highlighted a young lady just two weeks ago who was wearing a fabulous black pencil skirt with a perfectly fitted white button down paired with a set of killer shoes and black bag. Pay attention. Besides, DC style is constantly evolving. As our community continues to become more diverse we will see more eclectic styles mixing with traditional yet modern. Oh, and also pay attention to the fact that if you are that same Katie you should realize that going out with a guy who has a girlfriend is a major issue you need to deal with. Times that by 1,000 since he lives with his girlfriend. So low class to be the other woman.
That said, this is why I love Project Beltway…the editor does not discriminate an skew the fashion horizon. She’s celebrating the style and individuality of everyone on the streets with great respect. She brings smiles, balance and diversity into our everyday. So, DC Metro women (and guys) let’s stop the low self esteem and overly judgmental ways and start respecting ourselves and each other…when it comes to dating someone who’s already taken (I mean, just wait to see how his relationship plays out before you act like a hoochie) or to fashion (it’s an expression of ourselves, right?).
K…thanks.
That’s what I’m sayin’. Except for a few pairs of nice work pants that came from Express or the Victoria’s Secret catalog, my entire wardrobe is from Forever 21, Target, or H&M.
I absolutely love your blog! I do think that the shopping parties around DC are getting very old. They are all the same thing.
Meeeeeeoooowwwww Raquel.
She is a delight! Forward and confident while still dressing age appropriate. Soopa!
They are cute but half of it is them…not sure if the clothes matter as much when you are good looking and appear confident and comfortable.
I would definitely agree with you on some (not all though) of the parties…particularly the ones that are of the “Girl’s Night Out!”/”Pamper Yourself Party” variety…it’s a little offensive to keep marketing the concept that spending a lot of $$ on clothing or beauty products equals a night of “pampering.”
Just to sort of explain – I was more referring to the cotton knit-scoopneck-short-sleeved-shirt-with-basic khaki-or-black pants combo…this kind of outfit just really doesn’t have much shape or detail to offer.
And I firmly believe that EVERY woman (and man)has something to celebrate…as opposed to sticking with boring & predictible & shapeless. A well-cut pencil skirt (or whatever skirt shape suits ya) and a perfectly tailored, crisp white button-down are both staples if you ask me.
As for the other comments…I try to not get all Seventeen magazine on this site, and I hope that it never gets cheesyfied that way. Though sometimes I’m in the mood for that. You’ll just have to hang in there. ( ; Beyond that…I really try to focus my lens on anyone and everyone, because the beauty of DC is that we have all different sorts of folks all “doing D.C.” The “cream” of the D.C. culture might be ladies heading to church in their white pantyhose and big hats. It might be a man with a penchant for women’s handbags. It might even be the powerful female lobbyist in a St. John suit – predictible maybe….but only in Washington.
I’m sorry, but I don’t get it as they don’t even look like they’re going to the same place let alone being a couple. She looks completely put together and he looks like he rolled out of bed and picked up what was on the floor on the way out the door. And how old is he? Why is he still dressing like he’s on a date in High School? You ladies put up with too much in this town. Beautiful women with guys that dress like mooks… Sigh.
I had the same thought, KKC.
Just *another* reason why I prefer dating older men — they’re generally much more attuned to the nuances of complementary dress, not to mention overall mannered behavior. If I have to physically move a 20-something guy to the outside of me as we’re walking down the street or hold one back so I can exit the elevator first one more time, I’m going to scream!
But back to the picture — this woman is shockingly beautiful, cute outfit or not.
i know them and love them.
the only thing that could have made this photo more adorable is being able to see Jessica’s freckles in all their glory.
cute dress and shoes! and haha – i don’t think they look out of place together at all! it’s kind of the best part of being into clothes – dressing up a little bit when you feel like it and not needing your bf/gf/anybody else to give you context with their outfit. and he seems to be doing pretty well for himself – his clothes all have a nice fit and he even matches. can you really your boyfriend for more than that!?!
Well, there you go Johanna. One evening in the city I’m at a sidewalk table watching beautifully dressed women with guys in baseball caps and cargo shorts and then I caught myself in the window and I was that guy too. I’m sorry, but I still say she looks like she’s going to dinner and he’s going to the Black Cat. Dressing down is once thing and dressing up dressing down completely another, but if you’re going to wear something that says “why bother” then you shouldn’t bother at all.
Some posters are missing the point. They’re going to a comic book store, not a State Dinner. They seem to be comfortable in their own skin, which is all that matters.
Sure. All I’m saying is that like the movie industry is to L.A. (Hollywood) and the corporate culture is to NYC (Wall Street) and the night life is to Miami (uh, let’s just call that one la vida loca), politics and the power struggle is to D.C. (”the Beltway” — not just the Hill). Sure, there are tons of people doing other things in L.A., NYC, etc. besides their main attractions, but it’s those main attractions that define the city, its culture, and therefore its fashion. So the largest portion of fashion in all of those cases is based on those cultures, just like fashion throughout the city should be primarily focused on D.C.’s main culture, and should expand from there.
Looks like Caroline and all of the other cheap-thrill-fashion enthusiasts (myself included) can expect to be wooed by a soon-to-launch boutique line from Forever 21. Thankfully the prices still won’t wear out the wallet:
http://fabsugar.com/309434
Her outfit is indeed refreshing!
Je ne comprends pas…
Johanna:
If you spent half the time on your blog as you spend here yours would be worth reading.
Lones-
If you want to criticize my blog, do it on my territory — don’t bring it to Rachel’s.
Ummmmmm, Lones, if you don’t like the broadcast change the channel, otherwise get a life.
I’m just sayin’
KKC
KKC:
Do any of us really have lives if we spend our time either blogging or reading blogs…
Great pic…….Jo you truly
are gorgeous
The Fashion al Fresco event is posted on the Dress for Success Washington DC website here: http://www.dfswashingtondc.org/. Come join us for a summer celebration, outside at Poste!:)
Dear Rachel,
I love this photograph. The architect Santiago Calatrava has nothing on this woman’s hat!
http://www.arch.mcgill.ca/prof/sijpkes/D+C-winter-2005/pavillions_concrete/calatrava.jpeg
Beautiful.
Rev. James
She is, isn’t she?:)
She is obviously quite stylish and I’ll give her the skirt. Most people couldn’t pull that off but I hate the shirt. She is too busty for a gathered neckline…atleast of that high cut. Makes her look “swim teamish.” A lower neckline or simple crew neck t-shirt with cap sleeves would have better suited her. It would take away from the “top heaviness.”
Fine but snooze…and his jacket sleeves are too short. A bit of cuff is good but that’s just plum crazy. Ha! I’ve always wanted to bring “plum” back as a descriptor. Spread it like wildfire.
MD-
It took seeing this picture for me to realize that with the high-waisted skirt, I absolutely can NOT rock the gathered top. With a lower waistline, my “top heaviness” doesn’t look so “top heavy.” But here, yikes, you’re sooo right. Top retired.
And Rachel, don’t know about you, but I was “excused” – er, didn’t get caught – for taking such a long lunch
Wowsers Johanna!
Way to be a sport and take the good, the bad, and the gathered comments.
Very refreshing…not sure I would have taken the critiques so well. Cheers to you and your ability to rock the high-waisted skirt.
MD
I think the creases in the lower tummy area of the cute skirt indicate that it is too tight. I would also say that her with her heavy legs she should consider hemming up that skirt and tack on a seamless bra. I would also run a brush through her hair.
The shoes are very cute.
It sounds harsh but I know she can take it.
Libby-
Actually, the skirt really isn’t too tight. The creases come from the fabric being sateen cotton (i.e. a material that shows *every* wrinkle) compounded from having spent the entire afternoon sitting behind a desk all day.
“heavy legs” – um, okay. Not sure where you’re getting that from, but I’m not going to defend against an attack when I don’t think you have the full story — if you want to reconvene at a later time after you’ve been over to my blog and looked up the March 7th posting or perhaps the March 29th one, I’m game. Don’t feel bad if you feel a bit foolish afterwards. I’ll accept your apology.
The bra is a seamless Ipex from VS – you can see the seams because I was standing in direct 2pm sunlight.
The hair – you’ve got a point. Shoulda pulled it back.
The shoes are my favorite! thanks for the compliment!
best,
J
Whoa…Someone can sure dish it out on this blog…
I checked out the postings you referenced from your blog. I don’t feel foolish at all – the picture above does not make your legs look attractive. I will assume that it is the picture.
I own the 3.1 Philip Lim Rosette skirt you mentioned in your 3/7 posting. It does the same crinkling you mentioned- I get it.
I was just telling a friend the other day, I LOVE how the young girls in the city dress. I teach a number of them in an after school dance program, and they thrill me with their energy every time.
I don’t know much about fashion but I do know when someone looks great and is very attractive
and Jo is the real deal that much I know……..
Points well taken BUT, what happens when you’re hard on clothes and have to replace them often? My lady spends a lot more on individual pieces than I do. She’s tops and dresses from Anthropologie, I’m suits from H&M & Zara. However, quality shoes, socks, ties, belts, watches, etc are where I tend to spend more. Those details can cost many times what my cheapish suits cost (and $250 is still considered a lot for many men). Because I have bespoke suits as well, nobody is the wiser and I don’t have to worry about damaging a $2000 investment. Building an “adultish” wardrobe of 10 or 12 suits can be costly. It’s all about mix-n-match, rotation, and having *some* sense of style to begin with.
thought you might find this article from today’s WSJ interesting, if you hadn’t already seen it:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB118178044622234646-search.html?KEYWORDS=cracking&COLLECTION=wsjie/6month
“Cracking the Dress Code in L.A., New York”
I think she looks wonderful! I like the high wasted skirt – its slimming and the top showcases your assets, shoes are great as well. Speaking from a gentleman’s point of view, your great figure and nice ankles would definitely get my attention
I dig his style and his bag.
Johanna’s look=tres chic. But, I would have thrown in a punch of colour, because her outfit is very much on the safe side and perhaps what you would expect see on the mannequin in the stores. A little personality would have taken it a lot farther. Love the shoes.
I love the hat. I’d rock it with a classic white Gap fitted tee, beat-up fited jeans and cute heels. I love hats. So Isabella B…
the directly overhead lighting is the major factor in many of these comments (eg “top heavy”, its having the same effect on her eyes and cheeks). dressing may be the first part of fashion, but lighting is what makes or breaks it. rachel, where was your little assistant with the pop out fill reflector when you needed him?
i can’t believe i forgot to mention this before, but it hit me on the metro today — those ridiculous preppy quilted bags. they are just terrible!
This is fashion FREEDOM! USA! USA! USA!
RIP Isabella Blow!
I could care less about the pockets. but I think she looks adorable. I love the fit and color on her.
Simply beautiful!
I find the entire outfit to be charming and well put together. I do not see heavy legs or a too-tight skirt. Johanna, you look great and thank you for the fantastic comments regarding my dress. I’m the cheap and chic redhead.
Just because I’ve noticed a lot of compliments on my shoes, I thought I’d give you the website on which I found them for $40 less than Zappos sells them:
http://www.shoepavilion.com/charles-david-rosa.html
They run a little big, too, so I’d go a half-size down.
Thanks for all the constructive criticism!
She’s beautiful. Is she single?
Carly,
Great read!! The ideas presented in that article (that “fashion” often has a lot to do with appropriateness, power and what a city’s inhabitants do) is a huge part of why I wanted to start this site. That, and the idea that style is personal and tons of inspiration for looking interesting/put-together/what-have-you can be found not just in magazines that hawk pricey designer goods, but on the street, on everyday men & women.
I hope to be able to focus a lot more on the former topic. I’m excited to post an interview I did a little while back that I’ve finally transcribed with an incredibly smart Washington businesswoman who has a really great take on issues of style and power in Washington. Look out for it on Monday!!
Thanks again for passing the article along, and for reading!
Awhile ago, Johanna posted that “A girl with calves that size should know to not to wear a hem that hits below the knee. Or even *at* the knee.” I read this and the first thing that came to mind was that I am in a conservative profession, and I couldn’t wear a skirt that hit above the knee if I was off to work. I guess obviously you can’t always follow that rule, and based on Johanna saying she has thicker calves (not an insult, that is the mark of running/working out, from what it looks like) she probably knows that.
The only other issue is that since you should flatter your form, I think both the top and the skirt don’t play up her assets. The skirt is high waisted and attracts attention to the bust instead of her slender waist.
H-O-T-T Mess
UGH x infiniti
Actually,
I love it! Its very “Wes Anderson-on-a-movie-set” like, and reminds me of when Stella McCartney used to cut all the jacket sleeves a little short.
You have to be a certain body type to pull that off, but thankfully, he is.
These girls are adorable.
I really enjoy the website! Any chance of putting where this dress and other clothes you show are from? There are often really nice things featured but no information on where they are from. The red dress with the unusual pockets, as another example.
Thanks
Sara,
I think I will start to do that a bit more. Her dress was from Puerto Rico, I believe (of course). I can’t tell you how many times I stop someone wearing something fabulous, ask where the loveliness can be found, and the answer is “Japan.” Happens ALL the TIME.
However, I’m often surprised to hear that gorgeous things I see on fellow Washingtonians are from completely accessible places like Zara, H&M, and even Ann Taylor.
IT WAS GOOD TO SEE THAT SKATING IS STILL STAYING ALIVE IN A CITY SO HARD TO SKATE. I WILL ALWAYS HAVE A SOFT SPOT FOR DC.
Not something I would have ever picked out for myself, but she totally rocks it. Kudos.
this is something I would see on the rack and think it was one of the tackiest, ugliest dresses in the world, but on her it looks great.
The 4th Annual Capital Catwalk Fashion Event, June 23, 2007 from 7-11pm at the Andrew Mellon Auditorium, 1301 Constitution Avenue, NW. Featured designers are Shaka King, Eric Finn, April Reddick, Lenny Yorke, Max Mara, Betsy Fisher, Reiss, Wild Women Wear Red,and celebrity designer, Rachel Roy. This year’s honoree is Tim Gunn of the BRAVO hit reality TV Show “Project Runway”. Get your tickets at http://www.capitalcatwalk.com
That looks a lot like a dress I saw at Target, which unfortunately looked awful on me because I’m too short. On her it’s stunning though. I wish long dresses were more popular– they look so breezy and elegant.
Between this guy and the one in Monday’s shot, I’m convinced: there is a desperate need for a “Men in the Background of Project Beltway Photos” fashion spread. They’re back there working it as hard as the ladies.
maxi-dresses rule. she’s rocking one of the must-have trends for this summer and she looks smashing doing it!
Feel better!
Drink lots of peppermint tea, watch consecutive episodes of “Maury” and online shop!
Hope you feel better soon!
Take Care of yourself and get well……I miss you already…..
Looks (& sounds) like a good time. I was turned away @ the door because of my camera (& there was no way I was going to check it @ the club), but it was my own fault for having forgotten to get a press pass from the band. Oh well, next time. Hope you have a speedy recovery (strep can be nasty).
I slept until 2 p.m. today!
Yup, that’s what I’ll be doing next time (the press pass thing).
Holy green eyeliner! I’m impressed both by how well she pulls it off and by the application.
Not to mention that perfect skin…
She was flawlessly stunning.
FAB-u-LUSH!
I want that black bag!
Thank for not forgetting about us guys!
I really don’t like the way they look. Men can look stylish, and fashionable without being women wanna bes. Be yourselves.
Perfect
Yeah, the man purse, gold shoes, fake hair, and overabundance of femininity/lack of masculinity definitely ruin the shot. Plus, it’s just completely hilarious.
On the left: looks great except for the shoes; he even carries that bag well. Put some light brown brogues on him and he’d look perfect.
On the right: looks like a very sharp sort-of-transvestite (sp?). In the end he just looks like a dude in women’s clothing—by accident. “Oh, I dressed in the dark and put my wife’s pants and jacket on.” Not a good look.
That said, this is far far far more interesting than most all of the men that you usually feature.
rdhd
I really like the white suit and the white shoes. I’d wear that everyday.
Why’d I get censored?? Obviously I’m not the only one that sees “tranny.”
I see a latina Tonya Harding…sorry- not flattering.
Hmmm… Dominic’s cute.
Forget the clothes, bring us more Dominic! Lol!
I am largely opposed to JCREW but the first guy looks great. Okay…everyone looks great. Oh God! Did I actually just support seersucker? Am I still a Democrat? Who am I? I’m going to drink now.
AHH! I’m insanely jealous. I too am too short for the maxi-dress… or am I? Hmmm… maybe I should try, just to see.
It is difficult to seperate Dominic from the clothes. Not sure if I like anything he is wearing or if everything just looks good on him. D is missing his calling- enough with the “swim team.” How about a little Zoolander action? I’ll be his agent…
yeah, i like the tan seersucker suit, blue tie, white shoes ensemble best. he looks good enough to be gay. and seersucker is definitely a democratic fabric. if republicans are wearing it, its a ploy to get southern votes.
She is wicked cool- not sure about the guy.
those guys look cool as sh*t! some of you ladies need to get over your DC conservativism (or maybe your jealous because they wear it better than you do?)
yeah, a few of the details put it squarely into gay culture, but a lot (if not most) of fashion emanates from the gay world, both street and runway.
take away the clutch and the gold shoes, and they’re rock stars. those wide pants look very cool, and definitely creative. its hard for most people to think outside of the box like that. i think they’ve got real fashion cred.
Dear Paul-
Men dressing like power-lesbians is not fashion cred. They are horrific.
The girl is bad. And she’s rockin’ the stunna shades like no one’s business. Love it.
WESC is awesome! I just bought up their store on Robertson in LA. When in West Hollywood it is a “must.” Reasonably priced, fun clothes, bright colors…the style is Gwen Stefani meets Pharrell and has lunch with Kelly Slater.
Take away the purses (esp. that clutch), the yellow man-band on the left and Amerie’s palazzo pants on the right, and I’m quite pleased with these two looks. Not saying I would be stoked if a guy wore this on a first date to Rosa Mexicana, but at least the cuts of the suits fit their bodies well and they’re exhibiting a look-twice kind of personal style.
In your full-body photo of Grant Gustafson, it looks as though he is wearing not a seersucker suit, but a linen suit — especially because of the way his sportcoat’s sleeves are wonderfully wrinkling.
The close-up photo of Gustafson’s shoes, however, shows more clearly the fineness of the stripes of his seersucker suit’s fabric. Of all the others, he wears the seersucker suit the best. The cut of his suit, so far as I can tell from the photos, is the most flattering. (Probably helps that he’s not working on an interns budget.)
I’d give him an A-/A.
If would’ve worn a differently colored necktie or, better yet, an appropriate bowtie, and perhaps braces instead of a belt, he would’ve gotten the elusive solid “A.”
i heard that all staff and interns alike in Sen. Feinstein’s office had to SIGN an agreement that they would not participate (write for, be photographed for, edit, etc.) ANY blogs whatsoever.
hope these boys don’t land in any trouble…
Paul, they look awful. Accept that gay men are still men and fail at being feminine.
is Quincy’s zara suit for women or men? i’ve seen the men’s suits in zara and unless he had them altered their smallest size is still pretty big for a slim guy. it looks great on him though!
Well, my bleeding-heart liberal ass will be in seersucker all summer. I love it. But I wouldn’t have on Seersucker Day just to give Lott the finger.
That grey-on-white (?) on Grant looks fantastic. Even with the white bucks which I usually abhore. Spectators all the way. And now that I look closer, are his trouser pleated? If so, he should have cuffed them. Oh well, he still looks good. More power to him.
-rdhd
There seems to be a clear consensus that Grant wore his suit (tan & white actually) best; it might then be interesting to note that he bought it off the rack and then had it tailored.
tools
Rachel,
Was there something else he would have done? It’s not bespoke.
-rdhd
rdhd–
Not sure I understand your question; maybe I’m just undercaffeinated today (quite possible). Right: his suit is not custom-made; he bought it off the rack at Brooks Brothers and then took it to a tailor for some minor adjusting.
Check out the guy’s suit in my recent posting of last night’s Capitol File party. His was custom and looked incredibly snappy.
Ah, to contrast with the other post. Got it. It wasn’t your lack of caffeine, it was my lack of any ability to draw logical conclusion (all that education not withstanding).
Gotcha now. Guys: the lesson is that just because you (like I) cannot afford bespoke doesn’t mean your OTR suit need look schlumpy. Yes, schlumpy. You have no excuse.
-rdhd
cookie cutter carlo! sike! you cooler than Yao Ming!
wow that brandon kid is HOT! i think you should do a full spread on him. Who knew Asians could make such an American tradition look so good?
The best men outfits that I’ve ever seen was on a New York Times magazine a few years ago, featuring young londoners who wore skinny suits that fit to the T, with pin strip patterns or very traditional, and very expensive looking dark-colored suit fabrics, paired with colorful shirts and silk ties. The look blew me away, and I still remember it well today.
No I am not a “conservative” DC woman who can’t handle colors or shapes on men. In my humble opinion, these men look like there are DC men who want to be upper east side NYC PR yuppies! I just don’t think there is any creativity in men dressing like women. What, should we put pink ribbons in their hair next? So I maintain my stance: guys, can you stop being women wanna bes already. You be you. Or, maybe as you’d like to say, UBU.
“Men can look stylish, and fashionable without being women wanna bes. Be yourselves. ”
Maybe they are being true to themselves, just like this.
This isn’t a look for every man, but it is an interesting look for them.
They made it their own, and I think they came out looking good.
Pepper Watkins’ made-to-measure (MTM) suit from Pierre Mohan appears superb. (To be clear, Mohan does custom MTM suits, not true bespoke. But given Mohan’s reasonable price-point, his MTM suits look, at first blush, to be well worth the modest investment.) Of course, it also doesn’t hurt that Watkins is one of those tall, lean fellow, on whom clothes will tend to drape well.
The cognac lace-up shoes complement his ensemble — white dress shirt with cuff links, polka-dotted blue tie (is there something above his tie, by the way?), and subtly-patterned white handkerchief — quite well.
Watkins gets the elusive solid “A.” Well done.
From the close-up, by the way, it looks as though the suit’s fabric is seersucker? If so, then I think your entry on Capitol Hill’s seersucker day deserves a parenthetical update, explicitly cross-referencing Watkin’s photo and citing the cut of his and Grant Gustafson’s suits as the sort of fits to which chaps should aspire. Also, kudos to Gustafson for finding a smart, off-the-rack suit from Brooks (which traditionally cuts their suits a bit too “sackish”), and finding someone to keenly alter it.
Excellent thread comments. Just one clarification, though.
Customized, made-to-measure suits — such as Pepper Watkins’ smart suit from Pierre Mohan are not quite the same as true bespoke. Savile Row’s Thomas Mahon provides an excellent description of what differentiates bespoke. That said, Mahon also wrote an insightful entry on smart options besides (and less expensive) than bespoke.
By the way, it seems as though Grant Gustafson did, quite independently, the sorts of things that Mahon suggests for (what I would term) options-beside-bespoke or OBBs. (Golly, that acroynym looks a lot like Pentagonese.)
Anyways, Friday was a good day for men on this site, sartorially speaking.
we who are at work on saturdays read!
thats a fantastic mini dress!! i
The design is very reminiscent of the 1920s, down to the overlapping “shingles.”
I have to say… omy new fave thing in the world is to go on TDY without internet for 2 weeks and return to a backlog of PB! So, I’m finally up to speed and I’m still in love! P.S. Johanna- looking good! Not a lot of women can pull off that skirt, and I think you rocked it!
Worst outfit EVER
Aaaahhh! I love it! Rachel, please tell me you found out from where she purchased this fabulous Mouret-style sheath!
Johanna,
“Somewhere in New York”–I know, not too helpful. But yeah I thought of Roland Mouret too.
the honeymoon looks great on her!
I love that you used “slutty” in an article!! So true. We have several skinterns in my office and I just want to buy them each a cheeseburger, give them a hug, and suggest a sweater set and pearls.
I really like the 3rd photo down, of all the girls. I like how the focus is on the girls glove. Good shot.
Nice choice! I just saw this yesterday on the shopbop website and instantly fell in love with it…I believe it’s called the natalie dress and it’s adorable!
I love that last comment!!
I don’t mean to be a hater on the DC Scene and all but this is the reason why no one takes this city seriously..None of those garments would get a second glance in NY. All the good designers who are from here just move to NYC or LA to further their careers because of the market. If DC thinks this is great then it obviously shows the lack of fashion knowledge or interest in this city.
…And I love that you want to feed them all cheeseburgers.
Rachel- there should have been a censored version of that with an option to click through to the NSFW picture. If I ate more than adderall, I would have thrown up.
MINX…Very Mary J. Blige!
wonderful photographs. enjoyed.
First, let me just say that I adore George’s Socks ‘n Crocs look. Just adorable. /sarcasm
Regarding the comment, I liken the mentality to that of a person dissatisfied with their weight who sits down and eats a box of twinkies because, “at least it makes me happy.”
“Well, all the talent leaves for NYC so I may as well wear my stained sweatpants out.” That makes no sense.
DC isn’t the fashion capital of the world, and never will be. IMHO what is important is that it develops unique fashion – - more reminiscent, say, of the city’s combined sewer system than “what we used to wear at Prep.”
Then again, I ain’t no fashion plate.
You just got mentioned & linked in the Reliable Source Gossip chat…Congrats!
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2007/06/25/DI2007062501040.html
Wow you are gorgeous what grocery store?!
Boy, will I be glad when “feet season” is over…lord…
P Street Whole Foods~
cute and weather appropriate!
Georgia,
Thank you so much for pointing that out! I feel really flattered that Posties are reading. Bummed that I missed the chat.
yikes!!!!
you also have a shoutout on cap. hill barbie blog
Love that blog! I want her to do my makeup slumber-party style sooo bad. ( :
Oooh! You like me too! I’m so flattered! Also…loved the article in The Hill about flip flops. They are a serious threat to national security. As in, I might go ballistic if I have to see one more intern thwack by as I’m trying to get Serious Work done.
Agreed. Tattoos are now SO commonplace as to not even veer anywhere NEAR edgy or subversive any longer. These two are MAINSTREAM, doubly underscored by the number of tattoos. What’s next for these two — popped collars?
Dear Rachel,
Did you intend to capture the Bruce Willis “Life Free Or Die Hard” film poster in the background?
That’s what you call ironic poetic license commentary on this smoke-free couple.
Rev. James
to JM popped collars my ass!
Reading these comments makes me laugh. JM, i don’t know who you are or what you look like, but I’m pretty sure i would think you were absolutely ridiculous. To be quite honest we like the way we look. We aren’t trying to be “mainstream” or “edgy”. I think its funny that you think that of us. I’m also willing to bet you wouldn’t say that to our faces if you saw us on the street because I’m pretty sure I’d kick your ass. HA!
-have a good day sir.
ps: rachel, we really like you’re site and enjoyed meeting you and being apart of you’re website. thanx.
xoxo tiffany and phil
TIFFANY you look stunning as always!-
and if i ever see you with a ‘popped’ collar i will have to personally kick your ass hah
FUUUUCK that guy!
i love both of you very much.
While I like their look (except for the blue nike shoes on him – blech), maybe what JM means is that there is nothing unique to their style, as it is seen pretty regularly on the streets these days, just the same as Ann Taylor outfits.
well if thats your reasoning then i suppose nothing is really unique anymore…
Well, it seems like we hit a nerve…
You’re right about one thing — I wouldn’t say anything to your face — live
and let live, I say. From the awful seersucker suits of some days back to
the space-age Sunday hats some women wear. (WTF?)
But this is a DC STYLE BLOG with a COMMENT THREAD, and living in Logan
Circle, I see this look every day. So, it seems like a fair comment to me
with the pics posted here to say — remove the tattoos from this picture and
this look could be in any mall across the country — add the tattoos and
the possibility’s risen ten-fold.
And, uh “kick my ass?” Riight. Meetcha in the Food Court at noon!
i live a few doors down from this mural. i saw a young man putting it up just the other day, and saw a small crowd watch him do it, but i dont know the details. that building was bought a couple of years ago for $10 mil and they were supposed to turn it in to rental apartments. unfortunately, the owners concluded, based on other neighborhood real estate ventures, that rental units would not be sufficiently profitable, so as a result, the building has been sitting empty for a very long time. and at such a great location! it’s a total waste. i’m eager for them to do something useful with it.
have you heard about what’s going in on the other side of that intersection? (catty-corner from st ex.) it should be good!
love the neighborhood gossip!
Nice to see another guy shot.
Unfortunatley those shoes look much better from a distance. Cheap spectator-take off. It looks like freaking wicker. [Btw, ever notice how when you click the photos they don't actually get any bigger? It'd be nice if they did.]
And his shirt and trousers, while linen (looking) is pretty much always wrinkly, he looks a bit sloppy.
But I dig the hat.
etcetera,
no, I haven’t heard what they’re doing near st. ex–do tell! or email me if it’s under wraps for some reason. this is my ‘hood as well & love knowing what’s going on…
Please fill us in on the neighborhood!
How is a woman in a $300-$500 jacket an example of CTLE? She’s wearing CT ARE E head to toe.
Kathryn,
Good point–I think I was a little confusing there. See my update….she’s not an example of CTLE…she’s more an example of what kind of details to look for when scouting for CTLE.
It was kind o confusing.
Hi Rachel,
Sorry I couldn’t get this to you sooner…the thongs are Guillaume Hinfray. I think the blog is excellent and I wish you the best!
I have to disagree totally with the first comment. I LOVE the shoes. I love them so much, I would be willing to knock him over and steal them. They are different than the same old, same old that everyone here wears.
As for linen, it is suppose to have that casual, non-pressed look. It is the perfect material choice for summers, especially here in the district. Maybe it’s because I am a southern boy, but I try to wear as much linen and I can between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
interesting crowd. none stand out really.
This is all wrong…I don’t even know what to dsay. It hurts me in the baby maker.
Band collar shirt? Linen pants in the ‘Please Hammer Don’t Hurt ‘em Varietal? Pier One meets Pussy Cat Dolls Shoes?
I can’t.
I understand its a comment blog, but i think its funny that you take potshots at people on blog sites and not to their face. No matter, i run into people like you everyday. Let’s just agree to disagree.
Good cross-section of attendees, including the first woman of size and the “church hats.” Black women of a certain age tend to rock these, even on non-church occasions.
I also love the first couple, although I am usually not a fan of white or off-white non-athletic shoes on men.
The woman has that wonderful, thick hair needed to pull off a natural. Her confidence comes through in this shot. Good job.
That’s going to look hot when they are 40 years old.
When shopping for clte think: does this look cheap or does this look expensive? Groundbreaking advice. Here is an example of an expensive outfit, now try to find stuff that looks like this…again, your insight and tips blow me away.
CTLE? Are you rachel ray now?
Sorry, but it looks cheap to me. Especially the close up.
hah wow. every time i go on here i see more and more haters. yeah, it will look hot when we are 40 years old ur just too much of a pussy to ever get a tattoo so go fuck yourself and grow some balls, and do something for me, the next time you see someone with lots of tattoos say something like tha to their face…. then see what happens to your face. ha. loser.
how can everyone neglect the fact that her huge green hobo purse is totally inappropriate for her outfit and makes it look like CTLC—clothes that look cheapo. That grotesque, outdated purse alone looks like she bought it from a street vendor and kills her otherwise-lovely outfit.
this isn’t fun hair–it’s black hair! not that black hair cannot be fun…
Wow. Tiffani, you must be a blast at happy hour. Well atleast you have the klass, name, and diction to match your look. Your parents must be so proud and you’re right, tats and cigs make you tough. We should just send you to iraq to scare away the terrorists with your badass look. Seek anger management assistance.
dumb ass. learn how to fucking spell. go finish high school before you take low blow shots at people you dont even know.
I like the pistol necklace and the Die Hard poster.
And she’s got perfect legs for skinny jeans. Lucky brat.
kshack,
Is it just that the shoes are (supposed to be) spectators that you like? Because if that’s the case, you can get a pair of spectators. Both Allen Edmonds and Church’s (Cheaney’s actually) sells them for reasonable prices. And they are lovely. The Cheaney’s are very nice.
But if it is those shoes in particular, then there’s no help for you. Those are crap and you have crap taste. Sorry.
And yes, we all know that linen wrinkles. But you can look nice in linen. This guy doesn’t. He looks like a bland gray mess.
-rdhd
Did I mention intelligence? Add that to the mix of qualities this little gem has to offer. Obviously, the spelling errors were on purpose, Akeelah. The victim card doesn’t work so well when you have written violent and angry responses to people on a public forum…so try another route to evoke sympathy.
I won’t waste any more of my wit on you- good luck with your life and your “work in progress.”
My first question is…”What is fashion?” I think there’s a clear distinction between fashion and style. Discussing fashion is rather dippy, in my opinion, but hey I’m a scientist. That said, creative dress is a great expression of character, but within context. There are ways to present yourself without seeming overdone, as is my opinion of many in New York or Los Angeles.
That said, DC is pretty staid and not very open-minded. Smaller southern towns are more expressive and stylish than this city is, and that’s saying a lot about the types of people that settle here. Then again, maybe your blog is too focused on specific areas.
This isn’t a blog about grammar (I hope). I really, really dig the tatts. Regardless of if ink is “trendy” now or not, they both have great artwork.
those are actually really nice tattoos, and they’re going to be even more gorgeous once they’re done. and no, i don’t have any myself, nor would i want to–but i can appreciate beauty when i see it.
that said, i onced saw a new yorker (i think) cartoon that said all tattoos, no matter what, say the same thing: “ask me about my parents’ divorce.”
Head to toe perfection! Plus I’m now totally inspired to go monochromatic.
Hmm…I’m not loving them. Breaks the long line of her legs. Another shoe, flats perhaps, would have made the outfit stand out.
Poor execution of a good idea. Not into it at all.
She looks great!
awful.
Ok speaking from a guys point of view wow
she has fantastic legs…even tho I do like boots I have to agree with Jamy it just doesn’t work here…….
I think she looks great, bag and all. The bag makes the self-confident statement “who needs to be color coordinated all the time, and besides, this classic, never out-of-date bag holds all my extra stuff…”
By the way, the lovely young woman is my daughter… what would you expect me to say?
I love…:)
eek! boring tank top and tiny white denim skirt? no! awful grey SUEDE (in summer) boots? no!!
there are some great ankle boots out there that girls can wear with things other than pants, but these are not those ankle boots. ew i bet her feet are so sweaty… eewwwwww. maybe interesting shorts would have changed my outlook on this outfit. and a fantastic hat. and some gold necklaces. and different sunglasses.
Not only is her T-shirt kick ass … I love that she paired it with stripes.
Very very cool.
It’s from HellzBellz:
http://www.hellz-bellz.com/index.html
I don’t think they carry it at Kickballers, but Kickballers does have some great women’s stuff, including a fitted tee with a Betty-Page-like pinup astride an enormous cassette tape.
I love the Rhianna-esque bob, longer in the front than in the back, on the girl in the above post. It doesn’t work for everyone, but it looks great on her!
I really thought someone might criticize that first pic so I just left it. But since no one else has…
What’s up with the crotch-grab? Why do I have to see that? What “style” does that convey exactly?
Drop him from this gallery and you’ve got some good shots of cool style. I love the shoes–remind me of my hs days. Can I get the polka-dots in blue?
-rdhd
Why are they having a party anyway with them never having any customers? The dude grabbing his crotch looks like a faggot with that LV Boy Purse. He reminds me of http://www.bryanboy.com.
We carry Hellz Bellz, and whatever Kickballers wish they did.
What a fox!
I kind of like this. Very French.
First of all I’m all about looking like a person who is AHEAD of the curve.
Faggot?Wow… I’m probably fucking your Girlfriend RIGHT NOW.
I’m rocking Ralph Lauren POLO Gloves, Shorts, Shirt, under shirt (which some men REALLY need to wear), Louis Vuitton Damier Naviglio, and vintage mint Nike Air Trainer Vengeance 1993.
Vintage 1978 Acetate White Aviators, and a very special hat from LTD magazine made for DC.
Until you know what’s really up and you are MAN enough to wear REAL men’s apparel don’t speak.
Furthermore, When you see your girl with that crisp glossy stuff on her lip she keeps lickin… I just got done with her.
see you at StockExchagedc.com
Real Man. Real Talk.
oh and the crotch grab is for you sucker asses that would even attempt to hate on that apparel.
1989 package delivery for you.
stop being so pretentious and have some fun you prude.
Joanna–
yes.
thank you!
Ummmm…Derek, Hansel? Is this Zoolander or Project Beltway? Why don’t you two have a walk off and entertain us with more than your “hard” fashion jive. That said, I dig the style of Blue Steel in the first pic – too bad the image was ruined with the ride or die blogging.
Proportions are all wrong. Good in theory but just didn’t come together…
Frenchies everywhere are chocking on their cafe au laits. Je ne comprends pas. Il est tres terrible! Je deteste! If I squint, I get a low rent Amelie but only if I squint…okay, squint and drink.
Now this is getting good.
I actually think she looks fantastic and if the bag matched, I would be disappointed. The oversized buttons are great and the bold pattern is hot. My only beef is that the jacket looks a bit out of season – very fall (especially with the earth tones in the dress) but it may just not have not translated well over the Web. Overall, I find her quite fashionable and tasteful.
Yikes, I agree with MD. I was sort of digging the attitude (from a safe distance) until I read the dialogue, and now my face is all scrunched up in TOTALLY turned-off puss.
This is *so* not my scene, but the pictures and colors and bad-ass attitudes definitely pique my interest…
dude: it doesn’t matter WHO you are wearing. If you look like a jackass, you probably shouldn’t be wearing it. and the only thing you are probably fucking is your right hand. kisses!
I’m really sorry if my fiery smash-back on “Greg” left you in the “Oh my he is so rude and cocky.” mind state.
That particular “Greg”, is posing as the Greg that owns Elite and Palace Five, and I was just really bashing them, in hopes of finding out who it really was.
Unfortunately I am a bit of a brawler, come from a pretty rough and tumble Irish boxing background, and have no qualms in writing caustic commentary on the internet that would hopefully lead to an in person confrontation.
I was pretty offended that I was being accused of homosexuality for having a boy purse, and that people couldn’t enjoy a raunchy crotch grab, in jest, at a party.
Its a real shame people still revert to the homo stuff just because a male has a bag, wears traditional men’s accessories, or dresses like a bit of an eccentric.
Go figure in conservative DC.
All that aside, project beltway and Rachel are great and I’m glad so any people come here just to see the asshole in the plaid shorts.
I do love my right hand as she is a nice lady and never stands me up.
I’m also available for walk-offs, dance-offs, staring contests, twister challenges, thumb wrestling, and sword fighting any day of the week.
please contact my agent.
I’ve exchanged pleasantries with this gentleman a couple of times while out walking Montesquieu after work. He’s got such a lovely accent (sigh…), is always impeccably dressed with a spread-collar and French cuffs (I’m a *total* sucker for the over-the-top Savile Row look) and absolutely adores Jack Russell Terriers. In a word, perfect.
The blue and pink work really well for him. And I like the chance he took with a checked shirt and a patterned tie. It’s tough to get right.
I was going to say that the glasses should be silver or blue but then thought better of it. They’re probably always there adding that dash of color.
But, yeah, he should take his hands out of his pockets for the photo. The trousers do look funny like that.
-rdhd
I can’t believe I’m endorsing pleated pants…but this Silver Fox looks fantastic from head to toe.
If I was a strong black woman with a bad weave and a daytime talk show I might even say “fierce!”
Everyone on this blog needs a little Celebrity 101. If you agree to be a figure in the public spotlight…in this case a subject on a style blog, then be prepared to be ridiculed, analyzed, complimented, and bashed. It comes with the territory. Lashing out and smack talking in defense of your fashion, style, sexuality, etc. makes you look weak and silly i.e. Britney Spears with a shaved head and an umbrella. If people are talking (good, bad, etc.) you’ve made an impact. You can’t have haters if you aren’t worth hating – I personally love any publicity at all because it means I’m worth talking about. Just a moment of pop culture advice, young grasshoppers.
Silver fox, indeed!
yo gangsta-sean, polo ralph lauren doesn’t rock anyone’s world (Muffy aside, and she’s probably faking it). actually, some of ralph’s couture/high end stuff is cool, but that’s not what you’re sporting sport. have another plastic cup o brew and relax.
lol, looks like Sean G. is bumpin around makin new friends (as usual) Say what you want but you got to give the guy credit for rocking the golf gloves. Anyway, to the person above who said this is “so” not her scene, I would tell her to come check out the events before she makes that decision. The scene is full of creative, and talented people who may grab their crotch every now and then
Seriously, just check them out b4 you write them off. And to “Greg” can’t we all just get along? that whole store beef crap is played out.
I’m surprised at the “f*gg*t” comment and the response it got. I love PB and the positive attitude and I always agree when slanderous or hurtful comments are removed. Is the Rachel who commented “Now this is getting good” the Rachel who runs the website?
Why can’t American men come to their senses and catch on to some style like this man? Red glasses are right on, and Hermes, I mean, come on. Fabulous.
I am going to defend Rachel completely on this one. We are all adults and while some are expressing a certain level of klass that I can’t quite comprehend, we are still big girls and boys. Censorship is lame- plain and simple. Two silly boys smack talking each other’s fashionz don’t need removed…and as a gay man, I couldn’t care less if they say the F word – it simply castes them in a socio-economic class that I would avoid. I believe the “getting good” comment was in response to my Zoolander analogy not the badass blogging. Hopefully Sean isn’t the owner of the store? If so, he might benefit from a good publicist to clean up his messes.
The boots are nice, she is nice but the boots + her = not nice.
That is all.
Her hair is ubber nice, her skin is flawless and those brows are to die for.
Whatever@Jaja’s lame comment.
He almost got it, but not quite right.
The trousers are too short–he looks a little clownish. The cuffs of his pants don’t even cover the back of his shoes.
The suded shoes look too hot and sticky for the 100 degree heat and 100% humidity of Washington DC.
Maybe suede shoes look better in the London Fog?
harry potter would be proud
Ummm, Joanna, the pants look short because he’s wearing them with loafers, not dress shoes. Most guys have dress pants tailored for what they’ll mostly wear with them as it’s the only economical option. Check the break.
The loafers are studded because they’re actually driving moccasins. Italian by Tod’s probably. The suede may be overmuch, but they are perfect for DC in the Summer.
For me, I’m not a fan or pleats, nor of cuffs, and it doesn’t look right to my eye to be wearing a tie and pants with belt fobs sans belt, but given this blog’s mission I think he fits the bill as her certainly stands out without being a caricature.
this shot looks soooo editorial. well done!
reading the comments:
yeah…okay…because real bad-asses beef on blog boards! so lame! just about as lame as the crotch grabbing!
Rachel. . . is he single?
Matthew Lesko???
if you need a reminder:
http://www.lesko.com
I just want to place my vote.
I don’t think the gentleman in the first pic looks like he makes love to (or has sex with) other men.
I think he looks more like a boy who would enjoy:
a flip flop with a canteen stashed in the heel:
http://www.reef.com/productdetail/guys/footwear/sandals/2597
or a flip flop with a bottle opener on the sole:
http://www.reef.com/productdetail/guys/footwear/sandals/2416
Harry Potter? Matthew Lesko?
You people are killing me.
I too found that first photo to be more than a little distasteful. The exchange between Greg and Sean was even worse. Bravo, gentlemen.
Yes, the gentleman is adorable, and he’s better dressed than 95% of men walking in DC.
But, I maintain my position. He’s almost got it, but not quite…
Two qeustions:
1. Is he a red socks fan?
2. What color are his briefs?
His outfit might garner a better score if his undies matched his socks. Red glasses, red tie, red socks…red BVDs?
Jaja is hatin on our sneaks!!
but were the ones in the pic
lol
; ]
the women above the blazers is hott
i like her
Ahh i love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Aye i kno those guys!!!!!!!!!!!!Kewl life!!!!!
Well, the socks match the glasses Joanna.
I’ll admit that he’s sporting a look not seen too often south of Nolita much less these parts, but he’d stike me as a Euro right away on the street because it’s exactly the look you’d see men carrying a Firenze after work.
That said, this town is too devoted to “the rules” and isn’t this blog supposed to get us away from that?
The red socks scream British. The Brits love their red and maroon socks for some reason. The man is much better dressed than most, but I still have a few issues.
His shirt doesn’t fit very well. A lot of excess material and the sleeves look several inches too long. He should visit his tailor on his trip back to England. Not to hard t get a nicely tailored shirt. He looks sloppy.
I love brown suede, especially with grey, but these shoes are a little too casual for his outfit. And I’m not sure if his pants have side tabs and no belt loops, but I think I can see belt loops. And if so, he needs a belt to match those brown suede shoes. If there are no loops and only side tabs, then he’s forgiven, but I don’t think that’s the case.
And his tie is driving me crazy. Sure, you can buy a Hermes tie, but it looks terrible if you don’t know how to wear it. Keep your shirt buttoned and your tie taught until you get home. He looks American when he loosens his ties. Don’t let it drop below your belt. Put a nice dimple in it. And I’m not sure I like the small patterns on the tie with the small patterns in the shirt. You need a little more contrast in patterns.
Don’t get me wrong, this man is doing much better than most. But, yikes, we’ve got a long way to go in this town.
love it.
jaja shut that shit up…
[nef]
OK. I can learn. I will get used to this look. I might even start liking the red socks and brown suede shoes combination even in 100 degree and 100% humidity DC sauna, after I’ve gone heat shocked. And, I’ve also learned something valuable in my cultural awareness–that the British love red, and it has nothing to do with the Red Sox.
I have also come to the realization that I feel very bad for criticizing strangers who are dressed 200% better than I do on an ordinary day, and for what? For their taking risks with fashion and a sense of whim. What I do is awful, and it is not a personal attack on anyone. It’s just my humble opinion about what I prefer to see in fashion since we are on the topic.
If I could make one last comment about this look though before beating it to death, then here it is. This man looks and dresses like my first boyfriend, who’s from Sweden, and my second boyfriend’s father, who’s a dressmaker from Holland. This grown up “Tin Tin” carton character look frome Herge’s Cartoon Series, see http://tintin.francetv.fr/uk/ ) tends to be popular with the Western Europeans, it seems. Upon repeat analysis of what exactly is bothering me about this look, it is that I think it’s a little too much.
I believe that the element of surprise is a good thing to have in fashion. Red glasses and Red tie with a baby blue shirt look awesome: yes. The spiky silver hair with a charging smile look awesome: yes. But, when you mix all that with a pair of relaxed pants that stop at the ankles to show off a pair of crimson red socks, and brown suede shoes, it becomes a little too much for this Private Eye.
I think he would have looked more elegant in an understated, and gentlemanly way, if he had toned it down a bit from the belt down. Perhpas a gray pair of dress pants that cover all the way down, and a traditional color pair of socks and a more traditional pair of shoes would have been better. Traditional elements might have brought out more of the elements of surprise, as found in those tiny, round, and red glasses, the sexy smile, the red tie, the baby blue shirt, and that awesome hands-in-the-pockets stance.
One or two elements of surprise is good. 5-6 all on display simultaneously is ostentatious. You’ve seen the ladies who dress from head to toe in leopard/animal prints. Though this case isn’t nearly as bad as that, it is a lesser version of commiting that Capital Offenses of Fashion: Predictability.
I’m (southern) Virginian and wouldn’t really consider wearing anything BUT colored socks, even with suits. My conservative office mates think it’s tacky. This guy wears his clothes, he’s not just dressed in the uniform “the man” has said he has to be in.
Older men with red glasses have balls, and they’re the kinda guys I look up to. Color is good. So are spread collars and pants any length you like ‘em except maybe Thom Brown short.
LOVE IT. FROM HEAD TO TOE!
Like it. nice cross-reference to the Lacoste tennis shoes with a suit too.
Coltrane Curtis does some interesting takes on suits/fun/sneakers.
light weight footwear with the right shaoes and profiles can really make a regular mens look, much sharper.
I recommend air safari 87 and the newer air oasis.
Im The One On The Far Left.
We KILLED It.
C.R.E.A.M Team…Ask About Us.
I want to hate it because 1) it looks like a muumuu from my Great Aunt Mary’s Christening Collection 2) because I believe H&M is one of the top 5 sins Jesus Christ died for but she truthfully looks quite lovely.
Foiled! Damn you, Rachel.
Suede in the summer – of course! Some of my favorite summer kicks are suede. I live in John Varvatos mocs and driving loafers and both are summer-released suede. I also partake in Prada and Tod’summer suede slip-on drivers and tennis shoes. And for all the ladies who like ladies…don’t forget a W4W’s best friend – the notorious yet hardy Birkenstock. Last I checked, they were suede – okay, bad example but you get the point…
Nice post Joanna, and not too far off from my view. While I can respect his sense of style, it’s inelegant, (but I do think brown suede looks lush)and you have to make a call if you’re at a stage in your life where you want to say Cary Grant instead of James Dean and make strangers believe it…
And I think someone else makes a great point regarding the untailored shirt, as to me, what he’s sporting is a guy’s version of a muffin top.
Besides, why does he have the shirt tucked in at all given the total package? He’s sorta sporting a Euro version of a go-to-hell look, but isn’t ready to say it…
Did I just say that?
Thanks for the compliments! And thank you Rachel, I wasn’t feeling cute that day till you stopped me…
(kim)
It’s simple, elegant and classy. Love it! Is he gorgeous or what!!! She looks fabulous.
She has the perfect kind of slim calves for an ankle strap pump – good on her for showing off that fact!
And I love the choice of pearl studs. Very ladylike.
Get it!!! Looks pretty hot! I couldnt pull that off.
I don’t think she meant to be lame with her comment. As a Black woman with natural hair, I think what Jaja meant is that the young lady in the picture really hadn’t done anything “fun” with her hair – it’s just the natural texture of her hair. It’s just the way her hair is. I get complimented a lot on my hair, which I appreciate, but people always ask things like “How did you get it to do that?” and I’m always confused. Umm … I washed it, put some leave-in conditioner in it and kept it moving. Nothing extraordinary.
pink and brown is one of my favorite color-combos. That said, her jewelry is gaudy and gross and it totally kills an otherwise sweet outfit. The shoes are a miss, as well.
Love everything from the ankle up. Those shoes are awful. I can’t fully see the bag but I don’t think I like it, either.
The color is definitely wonderful on her!
the shorts and fuschia look pretty good… but, people sorta need to chill with the fake “gold chain from the ’80s” look.
I think she is doing it well, and looks less than serious about it…so it looks fun.
However, if you are trying to “keep it real”, and are going to rock a gold chain of that size, it needs to be different than the braided rope style available on ebay for $49, at Ricky’s costume shops in NY/NJ for $69.
And it should, preferably, be REAL.
Much more unique costume/gold plated links can be had at Intermix. approx $200-$400
which look super banging on the ladies AND the gents.
I’d give her an E for effort on the Gizzold, and she looks like she is havin fun so it’s all good.
I would have put a darker shoe with the outfit. But that blouse is damn near perfection. Brown skin tones just pop with bright color.
Can someone explain the appeal of the very long, tight shirt under the very short over-shirt? I don’t get it and I think it looks ugly. I love the vintage top and the sandals. The rest? Blah.
i keep coming across europeans who just do effortless chic, just that, effortlessly!
I aspire to exhibit the effortles chic look! I think that is the only way to show your true style and individuality. If you have that goal in mind it’s easy to end up with a cohesive look.
Also…I want her legs. I will NEVER have them but i’m pretty sure they’d look great on me.
Oh, and I really like the long shirt under a shorter top. I think it emphasizes the smallest part of the torso plus it allows you have the comfort and coverage of a longer shirt.
Love the printed blouse, love the hair, and double love how great her face looks with just the bare minimum makeup, but um, what is that flap of fabric behind her right cheek? Did she cut her cutoffs asymmetrically on purpose?
This is what goes for fashionable these days?
no hate…but i really don’t see why the 80’s is TRYING to come back with such a vengance…
*sigh*
Gawd, I so want to go back to Italy. They carry themselves so effortlessly.
I think the flap in the back is what’s left of what’s around her waist?
Those sandals are exactly what I have been searching high and low for in the US. That is so not fair.
Italian girls really do have the best sense of style.
Love the top, but I can’t stand jean shorts. They just bring back painful memories of 6th grade and I refuse to allow them back in to my wardrobe or the wardrobes of those I love. Love her hair!
I sincerely hope that she doesn’t think Sbarro is all of the “Italian” food that DC has to offer. Send this woman to 2 Amy’s!
I think the “flap” may be a shopping bag that’s hanging off her elbow?
I want her legs too. Damn.
Yeah–the flap is a plastic shopping bag hanging from the crook of her arm, you can just barely see the handle…
How I long for thighs that don’t touch. I was in my fab bikini the other day thinking, “am I trying to send smoke signals?” There is no need for that!!!
ROPE! THAT SHIT IS HOT!
Ya’ll are too caught up on names and authenticity. Are the shoes good-looking, regardless of who makes them? YES. Those are super fresh I’m going to go try to find some. He needs to ditch the parachute pants though.
I second that the rope necklace is hot! As is the pink top. Well done.
Makes her (wonderful?) legs look super short and stumpy.
I’m totally cutting off my fit-me-perfectly-but-I-can’t-rock-bootcut-anymore jeans as soon as I get home from work tonight. Tres inspiring. Thanks!
Terrible! Terrible! Did I mention, terrible?
This is so awful I can’t even come up with anything entertaining to post. Why is it that black women can wear these absolutely horrendous church get-ups and tacky hats and it is considered charming? You know if a white woman wore this we’d all laugh and/or gag…i think it is insulting to black people that we hold them to a lower standard – I don’t, thus my outrage at this picture. It’s like the Southern “bless their heart” rule for softcore mocking. Doesn’t this black woman look dolled up for church, “bless her heart.”
And the nose ring? Really? Ummm, sista! 1991 called and said that Avril Lavigne is missing her accessories. I can’t.
I think this outfit was saved by what I belive to be Tory Burch flats. She was “this” close to lesbian but the flats and perhaps the bag saved the day.
LOVE IT.
Classy and stylish. Complemented by a lovely tan.
I love her handbag!:)
Tan!? Ha! Are you serious? You must be from Kalorama…she is black, not back from St. Croix for the summer.
I thought it was a man in drag!!
MD, you’re so wrong and so provincial (maybe high rent district provincial, but provincial none the less). This is part of southern culture, and it’s unique, authentic, and cool. Would I wear it? No. But does she wear it with style and authority? Absolutely Yes. As Rachel so often says, confidence in yourself is the best accessory.
She’s pretty cute, but isn’t that bag a bit too big and bulky for the rather spare look? I’d say trim it down to no wider than the handles, and about half as tall. She’d look great eating roasted oysters and drinking champagne by the river on a warm summer evening (with the bag in her car).
MD you know too much for your own good. You came out of the closet and landed firmly in the box. Get out of the box!
Just because something is part of a culture doesn’t necessarily make it attractive or flattering.
Confidence in yourself and in your style only goes so far, a fact I’m reminded of every time I see Helena Bonham Carter, Leelee Sobieski or Bai Ling on the red carpet.
Someone else who drinks Irish whiskey for dinner! Mmmm, sometimes I like a dessert of Johnnie Walker Black too. In fact, I think it’s on the menu for me tonight…
The cutoffs are adorable!
I have to agree with Paul. I am not much of a hat wearer myself and I’m not a huge fan of nose rings, but “church hats” and getting dressed up for church are serious parts of our culture. As a child, I remember being in awe at all of the beautiful hats adorning the women at church and I still love to see that, even as an adult.
I think she looks fabulous.
Have you ever looked at the hats that British women wear or did you check out the post on the Gold Cup?
It is unfortunate that you are so ignorant. You might want to think about things before you write them for the world to read.
An Italian with a Sbarro cup = whatthe?????
Ummmmmm Janedoe? Maybe you are the ignorant one…Gold Cup is for F-U-N. I’m going to let it slide because I’ll assume you have never attended. It is a day to wear the most over-the-top hats and clothes you can find – for fun not for fashion!
As far as the little kids in church being mesmerized by these wacky chapeaus…you just proved my point. As a child I liked anything sparkly, colorful, or shiny – all of which turn out to be tragic as you get older.
And Paul…I hope you wouldn’t wear it or we have another set of issues to cover. The point is, it doesn’t look good. I have seen Southern women decked out in outrageous garb and looking just fine – she is not one of them. And I dare you to compare her style to the UK in front of a Brit. My guess, is you’ll get some hot tea in the eye and swift kick in the arse.
I maintain my plea of TACKY and Terrible!
Paul…my friend,
You don’t know me. I don’t hang with “the gays,” I don’t go to Pride Parades, and you and I will NEVER hang in the same social circle. I promise – N-E-V-E-R. You wouldn’t make it one weekend. I know a lot about fashion, pop culture, music, and mass media – it is, what I do for a living. I live it all week long as do many of my straight male colleagues.
Though I do appreciate your attempt to raise your profile by attacking me…good luck with that tactic and if I ever need a hook-up at Universal Gear, I’ll ask for you.
Oh and Paul- thanks for the three dollar vocab word – provincial. We all know you you can use a thesaurus now…that really made you seem one with the people.
I am anything but a conformist but I know when something is aesthetically pleasing. Paul – that means “pleasing to the eye” or “pretty to look at.” Didn’t want you to have to reference Webster again.
The Silver Fox is in a league of his own. His fashion audacity and willingness to go the way of Roddy Carstairs leads us to believe that he is a one of a kind and bringing that kind of umph Stateside. Remember, this guy works in an ACCOUNTING FIRM – the bar is set fairly low. God bless the fashion sense of an unbowed maverick. He’s PwC’s Beckham (Posh Spice eat your heart out).
hey that’s me. i’m from maryland not italy. and my sandals are michael kors
If a certain kind of garment or accessory isn’t your cup of tea, that’s fine. We all have our differences. But to declare something of another culture to be “wacky” or “horrendous” just because you don’t agree with it is borderline self-righteous.
As for church hats specifically, there is a deep history behind the reason why you’ll see crowds of them on Sunday morning. A book called “Crowns” touches on that history. More info is available in this NPR feature: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=876404
What I love about this site is that Rachel features people from all walks of life and appreciates the way different people express themselves. Heck, that’s what I love about this city in general. But it saddens me to read these disparaging comments, because those who throw them are trivializing the cherished history and culture of other people without even knowing it.
Kristin,
Ohmygod that’s so funny. I must’ve confused you with the two girls I took a pic of right after you (and posted on Friday–now I remember…they were the students). I *think* you said that the yellow patterned top was from Italy though, right? That must’ve been where I got off track.
BS–That crossed my mind as well. Should’ve realized my mistake from that alone.
That photo is at the same time both hilarious and sad. Nice catch.
-rdhd
I think it’s interesting that many commenters complimented her effortless style as one that’s singularly Italian.
Would the same things been said had I not identified her as Italian? Do we romanticize the looks/styles of those from other countries?
My favorite is the DC intern version — trade the shoes for flip-flops and bag for backpack. So glam! ; )
I don’t care if you like my comments or not…or if there is history behind church hats. I think they are ugly – well, atleast this one. There is also history behind binding women’s feet in Asia and stretching necks and ear lobes in Africa, and I think it is all gross – get over yourselves. The mullet (hairstyle) actually dates back to ancient Egypt, where it protected slaves’ necks from the hot sun – but I ain’t budging on my anti-mullet policy. Sorry Charlies.
Best. Photo. Ever.
But, seriously, I bet they’re really nice, very accomplished guys who are totally confident in the way they’re dressed (”a messenger bag is gobs more grown-up than a backpack!”), so the all-sorts-of-boring going on here shouldn’t matter, right?
Riiight.
the white dress is especially wonderful
hey! She looks great, casual chic, and the cropped jacket really makes it
the chain is awesome!
wow! That dress is gorgeous!
She looks fantastic! Details in the jacket and the skirt are really lovely. The warm tone colors & the print of the dress are great too
Amazing! The shoes are such a special & unique touch
yeah i got it at a vintage place in florence
I find the combination of the brown dress w/ blue bag really inspiring. The sandals are amazing as well.
chic & sexy
The white dress is indeed wonderful, but the best part of both ensembles, in my opinion, is the set of perfectly sculpted arms on lady-left.
But here’s a question: do they carry men’s wear? Most places, if they have men’s wear at all, only seem to have a few ratty old bowling shirts and some crap from the 70s.
-rdhd
rdhd–
I just spoke with Mercedes. Yes, they do, but she admits that it’s limited. She told me about some Schiaparelli and men’s Vera Wang items. Mercedes Bien stuff can sometimes veer towards the costumy, so who knows how wearable you might find her men’s selection.
Why don’t you swing by and find out?
There will be some awesome vintage shirts for men (more fitted and less costumey), provided by us, in addition to the stuff Mercedes carries normally.
At least the guy’s on the right aren’t pleated? I know…it still doesn’t make it OK.
Great blog, btw!
Thanks for checking for me Rachel. Maybe this weekend.
rdhd
Beautiful shoe
I am beginning to notice, esp. through The Satorialist the brown shoe + red sock
He looks really snazzy.
I’d recommend not D.C. — too busy, too backed up, too costly. Everyone has a getaway, so take them there.
But did he forget the pants? The taper seems off in relation to the jacket arm length…a little unbalanced. Good to show cuff though, this is how it should be done uptop.
Re: Benetton-their materials seem a little hot since they’re typically poly-blends. A light wool or cotton might work better for DC humidity, at an even better price somewhere like Zara or H&M.
Come on, they’re guys. Most of us don’t think about things the way a “fashiony” woman might. It’s easy to put on a blue shirt and khakis; that’s why I wear suits. Go out on a limb (red socks, brown sued loafers, red glasses) and people deride you for that too. There’s no winning.
Lots of American men outside of NY and LA can be pretty boring style wise. My only complaint is the lack of attention to shoes, this preoccupation with Pilgrim footwear.
Overall though, a lot of men are more interested in career, attaining “stuff”, watching/playing sports, and getting a nice, attractive partner to share life with. Clothing is secondary. If not, there’s the question of “Are you gay?” Even a woman writing in a recent Men’s Vogue commented that she doesn’t like a man to spend more than 7 minutes getting dressed. How much pressure is THAT? It takes me that long to iron a shirt. Thus, we keep it simple.
There’s a lot good to say about this outfit (he’s daring, he clearly has a style), but his pants look like they’re a couple inches too long.
I’m all about proportions and if you’re going to wear your sleeves so short, it should be part of an ensemble that includes tapered and short pant legs too.
I take the Metro up to London Custom Tailor in Bethesda who has done AMAZING things with my jackets (not so great with trousers oddly–maybe a language issue).
Now I want it a few degrees cooler and a little less humid so I can pull out a suit. I’m inspired.
rdhd
Guy,
I feel for you. Some days it does seem like there’s no winning. That’s why you tell ‘em all to go to hell and wear what you want.
Follow the “silver fox’s” lead and wear red glasses. Wear a boutonniere, wear multiple patterns. Someone will complain that *something* isn’t right–ignore them.
Just don’t go for the easy out to avoid the comment.
-rdhd
i agree with the other commenters..skinny up the pants a bit!! ..
but he does look sharp..loove the cuffs… and Do’s is great..ive used em forever..
there is another good one..waaaay out in centerville va..(so sue me..im short ill drive any distance for a great tailor!) Lee’s in centerville square!!!
xoxo
I commend his effort. Suiting it up in 95-degree weather is not for the fashion weary. But I do agree that his jacket is much more fitted than his saggy trousers giving him an unpolished look.
For those of you who think extravagant hats are a “black thing,” two words: Isabella Blow.
If there ever was a male style icon in this city it would surely be K Street’s now-infamous Silver Fox.
But truth be told, following his lead – or *trying* to follow his lead, rather – would be a no-win endeavor, for he’s the Frank Dux of DC’s male-fashion Kumite: you know he’s gonna win even before you size up his competition.
spot on! Well done sir!
Perfect eyebrows too I might add
casual cool
The 1st middle dress is really beautiful, also great blue seersucker(?) suit
That Kangol hat is incredibly awesome!
I’ve been reading a lot about Kickballers via Panda Head too.
1st girl is amazing! Flawless makeup skills, esp. the eyes!
I love long printed “maxi” dress for the summer
She totally rocks this look. The hair and “super star” shades add to it well
My goodness, I LOVE that dress. Summer dress with pockets, are right on. She’s cute too.
He looks great, his shoes especially caught my eye
I like subtle style.
nice skirt & cute shoes
they look good together, i like his shoes especially
feminine & pretty clothes.
so true, so funny!