Fashion Editorial

Gwendolyn Shearman • February 28, 2013

Indochino, a leading online custom clothing retailer, is bringing its unique experience to D.C. with a pop-up shop at LivingSocial’s F Street space, March 2 through March 10.

The menswear start-up company, based in Vancouver, B.C., allows men to upload their measurements and order their perfectly tailored suits online with just a few clicks. By cutting out the middleman, Indochino says it can offers high-quality suits, coats and accessories at a fraction of the cost of major department stores.

The Traveling Tailor event will bring that online experience to men on the go. Indochino’s fit specialists promise to measure men for their custom suits in 10 minutes and create an online profile for them, free of charge.

Customers can browse the quality fabrics and see the personalized details put into every suit created by Indochino and order at the event or use the online profile to shop at their own convenience. Orders are filled within 42 days and are guaranteed to arrive at your door wrinkle-free and ready to wear.

According to the company, D.C. composes their third largest market in the United States. The pop up shop will be the seventh destination for Indochino in the past year and a half. Most recently, Indochino held a Traveling Tailor show at Grand Central Terminal in New York.

For more information or to make an appointment for the Traveling Tailor event, visit www.indochino.com

Pamela Burns • January 17, 2013

For those lucky enough to go to an inaugural ball this weekend, it will be a night to remember for a lifetime. To complement this gorgeous champagne Oscar de la Renta dress, you need the perfect accessories. These Temple St. Clair moonstone, diamond and gold drop earrings, Alexander Mc Queen metallic leather-jeweled chain sandals and Judith Leiber crystal encrusted wristlet all complete this couture look and create the ultimate image.

Oscar de la Renta
A strapless champagne ball gown with thousands of tightly encrusted golden floret palette, $11,650 Available at Neiman Marcus Chevy Chase, Md.

Marco Bicego
18K Gold Cascade Earrings
From the Siviglia Collection. Hand-engraved, 18k gold ovals in an elegant, cascade design

Alexander McQueen
Metallic Leather Jeweled Chain Sandals, $815. Available at Saks 5th Avenue, Chevy Chase. Md. [gallery ids="101119,139553,139548,139538,139544" nav="thumbs"]

Yvonne Taylor, Fashion Editor • December 7, 2012

Classic black and white looks are revamped with bold silhouettes and textural fabrics like lace, leather and sequins.

Yvonne Taylor Photographer www.yvonnetaylorphoto.com

John Paul Hamilton Producer www.johnpaulhamilton.com

Anchyi Wei Stylist www.anchyi.com

Linh Phan, Hair by Be Scene Hair Studio

Carl Ray Make-Up Artist www.carlraymakeupartist.com

On Model
Look 1
Blouse, collar and belt Anne Fontaine
Crystal and white sapphire ring, $790 Kara Ross at Tiny Jewel Box

Look 2
Beaded collar, jacket and belt Anne Fontaine

Look 3
Lace blouse and zipped collar Anne Fontaine
Sequin skirt Alice & Olivia
White quartz and diamond ring, $1,450 David Yurman from Tiny Jewel Box
Sterling silver and ceramic necklace, $1,500 DavidYurman from Tiny Jewel Box
Laurenza black and white sapphire bracelets, $1,350 and $950 M.C.L by Matthew Campbell at
Tiny Jewel Box

Look 4
beaded collar and vest Anne Fontaine
Dress worn as a skirt Vincent Licari
Mother-of-pearl and black sapphire necklace worn as a bracelet, $4420 Kara RossTiny Jewel Box

Look 5
Jacket, skirt, and belt used as brooch Anne Fontaine
Black and white sapphire cuffs, $1250, and bracelets, $1350 and $950 M.C.L by Matthew Campbell Laurenza at Tiny Jewel Box
Hematite and diamond ring, $1600 David Yurman at Tiny Jewel Box

Yvonne Taylor, Fashion Editor •

Are you still struggling to find presents for that fashionista on your gift list? Look no further. These looks have all the best gifts that you can find online or at your local retailer.

Makeup – Carl Ray
Styling- Anchyi Wei
Model – Hanni, Miss Sweden
Photographer – Yvonne Taylor
Assisting – Michael Taylor
Manicurist – Titilayo Banko
Producer – John Paul Hamilton

Look 1: Surell Fur Collar: $225, available at Bloomingdale’s
Giorgio Armani Crystal Dress: $7925,
available at Sak’s Chevy Chase
Alexander McQueen Python Clutch: $2295,
available at Sak’s Chevy Chase
Vintage Earrings, stylist’s own

Look 2: Melissa Vap Développé Hat: $495, www.melissavap.com
Stella McCartney Blazer: $2085, available at Sak’s Chevy Chase
Aqua Sequin Pant: $88, available at Bloomingdale’s
Celine Trapeze Bag: $3600, available at Sak’s Chevy Chase
Prada Cutout Booties: $850, available at Sak’s Chevy Chase
Links of London Britlines Earrings: $370, available at Bloomingdale’s
Anchyi Wei Tribal Silver Necklace: $168, info@anchyiwei.com

Look 3: Melissa Vap Battement Hat: $485
www.melissavap.com
Prada Coat: $2995,
Jeweled Collar Shirt: $820
Prada Dress: $2560, available at Sak’s Chevy Chase
Jimmy Choo Cosmic Sequin Pumps: $795, available at Sak’s Chevy Chase
AndreaGems Teeth Earrings: $165 andreagems.com

Look4: Melissa Vap Chassé Hat: $325, www.melissavap.com
Etro Printed Dress: $1580, available at Sak’s Chevy Chase
Jimmy Choo Candy Clutch: $995, available at Sak’s Chevy Chase
Yves Saint Laurent Mirror Heel Pumps: $1050, available at Sak’s Chevy Chase
Anchyi Wei Tribal Silver Chain Earrings: $125, info@anchyiwei.com

Look 5: Melissa Vap Faille Orange hat: $300,
www.melissavap.com/
Reiss Sequin Dress with Detachable Collar: $425,
available at Bloomingdale’s
Surell Fur Collar: $225,
available at Bloomingdale’s
Salvatore Ferragamo Gold Bonita Pumps: $775,
available at Bloomingdale’s
Stella Valle Hippie Harmony Earrings: $96, and Ann Ring: $96,
www.stellavalle.com/

Casey obrien • December 6, 2012

If you don’t yet know the name Basil Soda, you soon will. This Beirut-based designer is gaining recognition all over the world for his beautiful designs and attention to detail. He’s making a short tour of the U.S. presenting his newest collection before returning to his beloved state-of-the-art “play- ground” in Lebanon.

With the release of his third collection, Basil Soda garments are making their way into U.S. shops all over the country. Soda’s ready to wear collection has a couture feel to it, while staying modern, feminine and sensible.
This humble designer got his start working with designer Elle Saab, whom he still has good relations with, and considers a big brother. Soda gained experience, and after four years, felt he could go off on his own to begin working on his brand.

Though he has already seen great success with his previous collections, Soda never thinks he’s “made it.” “It’s an achievement for the Lebanese to be accepted in the fashion industry, but still, I don’t put myself in this mold because once you…believe in it, then you don’t move quickly, faster.” Soda says, “I have to keep moving, because my aim is to really create a story around the brand.”

“Now, fashion, the way we are seeing it, is not anymore only trend. It’s not only colors. It’s not cuts. It’s not volumes. It’s just a statement from a designer that [they] bring into the fashion industry, and this is how you recognize new brands. It’s not the color, or what you like, or what you don’t.”

His couture gowns have been popping up all over the red carpet lately. Marion Cotillard, Carla Gugino, Cheryl Cole, Dana Delany and Katy Perry are some of the many stars spotted wearing Basil Soda designs. “Red Carpet will always be our main exercise for the couture. This is where we feel it is giving us quite good visibility,” Soda says. “It is the fastest way to be seen; even the big fashion houses, this is what they are doing and what they are concentrating on.”

Basil Soda cites his inspirations for his collections coming from two sources: music and exhibitions, and, the most important, young people, and how they react to fashion. Soda says when it comes to fashion, one shouldn’t be too practical, and should have confidence to wear what one wants.

“You should love yourself; let’s say you’re tall, short, a brunette, a blonde, fat or skinny,” Soda says. “The first thing, you should love yourself, whatever it is. And when you love yourself, you can express more. You can be more confident about the things that you choose for yourself.”

Soda presented his collection at the René Moawad Foundation Gala at the Ritz Carlton on Nov. 10 to numerous gasps of awe and thunderous applause from the audience. He previewed 45 pieces from both the ready to wear and couture collections, creating a grand finale to an enjoyable gala.

“We need to reflect the good side about ourselves. To put a smile on.” Soda says, speaking on character. “This is what we need, this is why we are doing fashion, to be more happy, more relaxed, enjoying ourselves.

Green

Earthy green hues of emerald, moss or loden can be evocative of a woodsy holiday. Forget what you may think about the Grinch-y color. Soda’s couture dress,? from his fall collection, shows that a smoky green can be alluring and mysterious. More subtly glamorous, it’s a great alternative to red during the holiday season. Accesorize with these Kate Spade sunglasses ($128). Keep the cold out with an elegant fur collar from Brooks Brothers ($298), in keeping with an out- doorsy look.

Black

Closets during this time of the year can seem like an inevitable black hole. This long wool skirt by Michael Kors is a versatile piece that can transition season to season. This purse by Banana Republic ($98) is a fun evening bag that is more playful than a more plain option. The dress is from Basil Soda’s Ready to Wear line.

White

Get on the bandwagon with Basil Soda’s breezy winter white dress. You can look like an ice queen with blinged-out acces- sories like these Manolo Blahnik pumps ($1,295) or Alexander Wang purse.

Red

Soda’s look is ornate, modern and sultry. You can bring the same vibe to your tech accesso- ries and outerwear. This iPhone case by Banana Republic with card sleeves will keep you organized on the go, and this USB drive ring by Kate Spade is the most glam we’ve ever seen.

Outerwear is an important part of any winter wardrobe, and this Michael Kors coat is a great piece that will set you apart. With its assymetrical buttons and collar, it’s a modern coat in a traditional holiday color. [gallery ids="101077,137279,137274,137268,137262,137258,137252,137290,137246,137295,137240,137299,137234,137304,137284" nav="thumbs"]

Georgetowner • August 29, 2012

Those who love fashion are quick to associate it with fine art. As artists, designers work to create an atmosphere, evoke emotion and inspire contemplation. Tsyndyma is a Washington-based designer whose suits and dresses outwit the temperature with light materials in autumnal colors. Breezy, wide-leg pants create a strong base, drawing eyes to the masterpieces above.

Georgetown milliner Melissa Vap’s handcrafted hats and fascinators are beautiful pieces for formal gatherings. Free from conforming to the body, they are open to take any form she can imagine. Like the best works of art, their beauty is timeless by both looking to the past and throttling towards the future. Be confident in your own look as you transcend these two seasons.

Photographer Yvonne Taylor www.yvonnetaylorphoto.com
Producer John Paul Hamilton
Make-Up Artist Carl Ray CarlRayMakeupArtist.com
Hair Darrell Thompson
Model Clara Buchanan
Designer Tsyndyma tsyndymaonline.com Shop here.
Hats Melissa Vap www.melissavap.com
[gallery ids="100948,130382,130349,130375,130357,130370,130365" nav="thumbs"]

Georgetowner • August 10, 2012

As the temperature continues to rise, local store prices are doing just the opposite. Check out this week’s latest sales at some of your favorite M Street shops.

Annie Creamcheese
3279 M St. NW – 50% off any single vintage item, if you mention The Georgetowner

J. McLaughlin
3278 M St. NW – All women’s items 40% off

Waterworks
3314 M St. NW – 25% off beach towels until June 30

City Sports
3338 M St. NW – Up to 30% off on select items

The Running Company
3401 M St. NW – 30% off older running shoes

West Elm
3333 M St. NW –30-40% older items

The North Face
3333 M St. NW – 25-30% off select items

Second Time Around
3289 M St. NW – June 29-July 4: 20% off full price on selected items

Aldo
3237 M St. NW – Up to 50% off selected items

Lucky Brand Jeans
3271 M St. NW – 20% off selected items

All Saint
3235 M St. NW – 30-50% off leather and clothing

True Religion Brand Jeans
3225 M St. NW – 20% off shorts and select shirts until July 1

Banana Republic
3200 M St. NW – June 30-July 4: 30% selected items

BCBG Max Azria
3210 M St. NW – 40-60% off; additional 20% off sale items

Anthropologie
3222 M St. NW – $19.99 and up on sale items

Intermix
3222 M St. NW – an additional 30% off selected items

Yvonne Taylor, Fashion Editor • July 23, 2012

Travel around in style as hot as the summer weather. Gear up for summer with fun fashion and cute cars. Grab your ride at Passport MINI-Alexandria.

Photographer: Yvonne Taylor
Stylist: Stara Pezeshkian with T.H.E. Artist Agency
Stylist assistant: Bridget Thompson
Hair: Belinda King
Models: Angela Sipper and Monty Ashton-Lewis
MUA: Kim Reyes
Producers: John Paul Hamilton [gallery ids="100798,124415,124405,124411" nav="thumbs"]

Yvonne Taylor, Fashion Editor •

Swimsuit season has officially arrived. Be a vibrant vision in bright, bold colors, while lounging by the pool as seen here at the Lavender Hill estate.

Photographer: Yvonne Taylor
Stylist: Stara Pezeshkian with THE artist agency
Stylist assistant: Bridget Thompson
Manicurist: Natasha Ray
Makeup: Kim Reyes using MAKE UP FOR EVER for T.H.E.
Artist Agency
Photog assistants: Michael Taylor and Ximena Brunette
Hair: Belinda King
Model: Kelsey McGuire from CIMA Talent Management
Location: Lavender Hill in Upperville, Va., is on the market;
listing by Thomas & Talbot Real Estate [gallery ids="100857,126826,126821,126816" nav="thumbs"]

Georgetowner •

Summer sales in Georgetown this week are heating up. You don’t want to miss out on these great deals.

J. McLaughlin — 3278 M St., NW – Final markdowns up to 75% off until the end of July.

Design Within Reach — 3306 M St., NW – Floor sample Sale, always ongoing; upholstery sale starts Aug. 2.

Yves Delorme — 3320 Cady’s Alley, NW – Sale until July 21; 20% off storewide; excludes mattresses.

Poggenpohl — 3324 M M St., NW – Display sale (see store for more details)

Baker Furniture — 3330 M M St., NW – Save big at the floor sample finale.

City Sports — 3338 M St., NW – Up to 40% off spring and summer merchandise which runs through August.

Bo Concept — 3342 M St., NW – Floor model sale; a sale with any material and any layout until the end of August. End of season collection sale now through August.

Revolution Cycles — 3411 M St., NW – Trek summer sale ends July 22; free calendar has rolling coupons; previous year bikes on markdown.

Running Company — 3401 M St., NW – 30% off old model shoes

The North Face — 3333 M St., NW – 25 to 35% off selected items plus an additional 20-30% off spring items.

Annie Cream Cheese — 3279 M St., NW – Buy one; get another item half off.

Lacoste — 3146 M St., NW – Up to half off

Sports Zone — 3140 M St., NW – Shorts are two for $30. T-shirts, including women’s tank tops, are buy five for $20. Up to 25% off accessories.

Barney’s — 3040 M St., NW – Sale up to 75% off

Juicy Couture — 3034 M St., NW – Additional 30% off sale

Cusp — 3030 M St., NW – Up to 65% off, end of season sale.

Niccolo — 2928 M St., NW – Up 20% off

Charm — 2910 M St., NW – Up to 30% off

Hu’s Shoes — 3005 M St., NW – 50% off on select shoes

American Apparel — 3025 M St., NW – Swim sale up to 50% off; sunglasses up to 50% off; jewelry up to 50% off (excludes watches); t-shirts are two for $3; bras three for $25; men’s shorts are 50% off.

Diesel — 3033 M St., NW – Up to 50% off on men and women’s apparel; 25% off men and women’s denim.

Brooks Brothers — 3077 M St., NW – Up to 50% off; spring pants and polo shirts 40% off; all shorts 40% off; women’s apparel, 40 to 50% off, depending on item; spring suits 40% off.

Steve Madden — 3109 M St., NW – Additional 50% off; 10% off for student discount; 15% off for military discount

Urban Outfitters — 3111 M St., NW – extra 30% off