District Couture: December 2008

12/30/08

Coat couture: D.C.’s brightest winter accessory

During the winter, do you ever find that dressing stylishly can be difficult? Let’s face it, bundling up to brave the cold has never been sexy (unless you’re Mariah Carey and can afford a Gucci snow-bunny outfit). But for the rest of us, striking the balance between looking great and dressing warmly can take a little extra effort. Yet, if there’s one thing the well-dressed Washingtonian knows how to do, it’s to dress-up winter-wear.

By far, the best winter trend I’ve spotted this season is the bright-colored coat. It seems everywhere I look, it’s one coat, two coat, red coat, blue coat. Great coats and jackets in bright hues and elegant patterns, indeed, are the winter trend du jour.

If Santa didn’t bring you a coat this season, or even if he did but you want to take advantage of great after-holiday deals, a new coat in a dazzling color is a fantastic investment this winter.

Here are a few I recommend:

GUESS by Marciano Bow Back Topper was $139, now only $79.90 at Nordstrom

Belted wool trenchcoat in solids by VIA available at Victoria’s Secret online and catalogue for $148

Women’s belted plaid overcoat by Coffee Shop is 50% off at Overstock.com

This aqua Calvin Klein Asymmetrical Trench also comes in a canary yellow and is $148 at Nordstrom

If you are already part of Washington’s winter rainbow, send me a picture of you in your winter coat.

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12/26/08

What are your wearing New Year's, New Year's Eve

The wrapping paper has been recycled and the countdown to New Year’s has begun. If you’re like many who haven’t really thought about what you’re going to wear to your December 31 soiree, not to fret – there’s still time.

New Year’s Eve is one of the greatest days of the year, style-wise. You can wear gold sequins and no one can say a thing about it! Not only that, but it’s a great time to start your resolution, be bold and ring in 2009 right!

So no matter if you’re living it up at Lima and Ultra Bar or going for a romantic ride on the Odyssey or imbibing champagne at a fun house party, there’s no reason not to gussy up and feel great about yourself.

Here are a few great looks to carry you from one New Year’s tryst to the next:

This silk sleeveless top from New York & Company will pair excellently with black wide leg pants or even a dark denim. Wear with a fitted blazer and an accessory of your choice (say a broach for the blazer or drop earrings).

Betsy Fisher offers Washington women an array of highly tasteful and yet equally trendy ensembles. The “Super Delegate” look offers holiday spirit, forgiving fabric and a timeless look.

Anyone who thinks Target is the better looking sister of Walmart is highly mistaken. This satin inspired cowl neck looks expensive, but only you will know your tickets for NYE will cost more than your outfit.

I want to see your New Year's Eve ensemble! Send me your pics. And no matter where you go and what you wear, don't forget to party like it's 2-0-0-9!

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12/16/08

Capitol style spotlight: Rochelle Behrens

The Power Suit. It says confident, smart and put together. And yet, women’s suits are a virtual jungle of discomfort, misfit and bad cuts. It’s no wonder that many Washington career women have given up on this staple. Critical to examining DC’s collective style, it is important to pay homage to those who are buck the “Washington lacks fashion” myth. Rochelle Behrens, 26, a Washington lobbyist by day and budding fashion designer by all other hours of the day, has been inspired by what she’s seen in DC, but knows there’s room for improvement. Her “no gape” shirt is making a statement of its own. Picture this, you’re in a meeting with your client and your boss, so naturally you’re wearing a button-down blouse and suit jacket. You happen to look down and notice that there is a wide gape in a very inopportune place: your chest. Perhaps even worse, that most important button on your blouse has somehow come undone (no matter your cup size!). Fed up with impractical, poorly fitting, and just plain boring work attire, Rochelle took to her own, creating the centerpiece to her debut line, The Rochelle Behrens Collection. Rochelle is continuing to expand her collection, offering an array of figure flattering suits, jackets and dresses certain to fit your frame. See Rochelle most recently on the Today Show:

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

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12/5/08

WWD: What Should Michelle Wear?

To be, or not to be? What came first - the chicken or the egg? What should Michelle wear to the inauguration? Very serious business, those questions (ok, just the latter).

Bridget Foley and Bobbi Queen of Women's Wear Daily posed the question that many have been pondering since before her husband was elected.

As such, the fashion industry trade publication has pulled together 42 sketches from the world's leading couturiers. From the elegant Michael Kors and Monique Lhuillier, to the extreme Betsy Johnson, and the embodiment of couture, French designer Christian La Croix, the gown worn by Mrs. Obama may very well be the most infamous gown since...well since that Jennifer Lopez Versace number back in 2000.

One could wonder, what does it mean when not only designers are anxiously awaiting the dress of the century, but the whole world is watching in tandem?

I cannot say for certain. But I do know that whatever Michelle chooses, no matter the acolades or the critiques, she will look lovely and she will still be, just Michelle.

Here are a few of my favorites. I'd like to hear YOU what think our First Lady in waiting should wear - send me a comment.

Click here to see all 42 designs - and even some for the girls!

For Evening:

Carolina Herrera