D.C. does not have – how do we put this politely? – a very strong reputation for being cool and stylish. In fact, it's kind of a laughingstock, particularly in the fashion category, and is regularly subject to ridicule such as this recent headline from Jezebel:
That isn't to say some of the mocking isn't deserved. Walk down the street in D.C. on any given day, and you'll be subjected to a wide range of fashion don'ts, from frumpy suits to matronly heels to, yes, plenty of white sneakers with pantyhose and skirt suits (I like to think those people are devoting their time and energy to something bigger, like world hunger or the national debt). My friend Johanna, the fabulously stylish and talented writer behind recently retired D.C. style blog A Serious Job is No Excuse {which is sorely missed,
I think it may have worked. Since I've been back {I also lived here for most of 2003}, I've noticed a vast improvement. Silhouettes are fitted. Heels are rounded. Boots are slouchy. There's an unsettling amount of Uggs, but I suppose they're (marginally) better than square-toed orthopedic-ish heels. There are stores like Relish and Hu's Shoes and Meeps, offering items that could never be mistaken for Ann Taylor or (shudder) Chico's. The women of D.C. have slowly been upgrading their image, waiting for the time to show off all they've done.
Well, kids, I think this might be that moment.
As you know, the Sartorialist photo exhibit is coming to D.C. and they're having an open-to-the-public reception next Wednesday, March 19 from 6:30-8:30pm at Adamson Gallery. {Note: The NY launch of the same show was also open to the public, and it was so crowded, the line looped around the block and many people didn't get in and have the chance to show off their carefully selected outfits. Go early, maybe. Or go late. Or prepare for a bit of a wait and a crowd, just in case fashion followers start coming out of the woodwork here.}
In any case, the hot topic around these parts is "What are you wearing to the Sartorialist party?" Not that I think any of us are necessarily looking to go to the lengths needed to impress Mr. Schuman himself, but rather, this is a major fashion-y event in our own little, known-for-white-sneakers-and-pantyhose city, and finally – finally! – we have the chance to redeem ourselves. {And, yes, though I'm the new girl in town, I'm including myself in this crusade as well.}
So, what am I wearing? Hmmm, I don't know yet. (Though I do love any opportunity to dress up and go out, so I'm rather excited.) But you can bet your sweet potato that, no matter if I settle on dark skinny jeans or a wild vintage dress, it will (hopefully) be cute, fun and representative of the New D.C. Style. If I had to offer advice, I'd say: Don't stress too much about it, but don't wear your gym sneakers either. Or flipflops. Or anything your mom might also wear, unless your mom is incredibly stylish in a Helen Mirren-esque way. {Scratch that: I love Helen, but I don't want her wardrobe. Although this jacket is kind of cute.} If you're in serious doubt, go simple and chic. And if you've been waiting for the chance to break out that fabulous crazy-designer frock, well, this might be it! (Although I always say, go ahead and break it out for Saturday night drinks too. The bar scene here could use a dose of creativity and color.)
And, if we both manage to make it inside and you see me, come say hi! I not have been here long, but I love meeting new friends. And, who knows? Maybe the Sartorialist will ask to take our picture together.
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