STYLE SPOTLIGHT: Gorgeous Jewelry For The Gala Season



After watching the William and Kate's wedding this morning, as well as a documentary on the late Princess Diana's jewelry, I could not wait to tell you about MsBellezza's jewelry line.

I totally got to feast my eyes on these gorgeous pieces - up close and personal. When I opened the boxes, I was blown by all of the sparkle. It was full of that bling that you love so much. Oh hell, the bling that I love so much!!! Using Swarovski crystals, semiprecious stones, and exquisite metal and beadwork in the design of each piece, MsBellezza Jewelry [miz-be-LET-za] will help you be the belle of the ball at any gala this season.

What made me even more excited to share this line with you was because of the prices. I could not believe that most of the pieces in this jewelry line fall under $200. There are a few pieces in their Premiere Collection that are over $300 but rightfully so. But you can own a stunning piece of jewelry that definitely will not break the bank.

Here are the pieces that I viewed. Most pieces are from the Statement Jewelry or Premiere Collections:





Here are some lovely options under $150:


Come Over & Over, $140.00



The Betty, $120.00



Secret Garten, $40.00



Silver Screen, $120.00



Gypsy Song, $120.00



Champagne Cheers, $140.00



Everyday is Friday, $120.00

DC STYLE EVENT: Sip, Shop, Swap & Jazz at BeautyFull Boutique Tonight!




You are invited to attend "Sip, Shop & Jazz Night and Clothing Swap Party"
at the BeautyFull Boutique on Thursday, April 28, 2011 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Tickets are $10.00 per person. Get your tickets here.

During this special event you will shop til you drop with special discounts,
swap clothing with participants and enjoy a special wine and cheese tasting with live jazz featuring the International Bassist Mike Tony Echols and Friends.

We've added a clothing swap to the event. To participate simply bring no more than 15 items (clothing, shoes or accessories) to the boutique and you will swap your clothing with other "swap" participants. All "swap" clothing must be clean, on a hanger or neatly folded, etc. If you clothing is not swapped you will have an opportunity to consign it with BeautyFull Boutique at the end of the event.

Please note that the boutique will be closed to the general public during the event.

DC FASHION BENEFIT: Fashion For A Cause



WHAT
Please join the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of DC, DC fashion designer House Rossil and DC’s upcoming designer Samuel Ugglee for a night of fashion, fun and charity. The “Fashion for a Cause” event is part of NOVA Fashion Week, and all event proceeds will benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

WHO
Hosted by Pamela Brown of ABC7/WJLA-TV and former Redskin Ravin Caldwell.

WHEN
Thursday, May 5th, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

WHERE
JOSEPHINE’S
1008 Vermont Avenue, NW
Washington, DC

TICKETS
Purchase your tickets on the web site of Sanam Toossi

DC STYLE EVENT: Bethesda Row Welcomes Kelly Cutrone To The Front Row




Stylistas and Fashionistas, Mark Your Calendars!

The Front Row at Bethesda Row returns on May 19 - 21, 2011. This star-studded style weekend at Bethesda Row will be packed with in-store fashion, beauty and culinary events in over 30+ retailers and restaurants throughout the Row, with a signature Summer and Fall 2011 runway show on Friday, May 20th and a first-ever Chic Children’s Event on Saturday, May 21.

The Front Row will kick off Thursday with an exclusive free screening of this year’s ultimate fashion film, Bill Cunningham New York, at Bethesda Row’s Landmark Theatre. The award-winning film tracks the unprecedented career of the legendary, candid street fashion photographer for The New York Times Style Section with a soiree fit for the most fashionable New York City socialite.

Here are some weekend highlights:

Thursday, May 19 leading up to the screening, stores and restaurants will be hosting the first day of their in-store fashion-focused festivities. The morning kicks off with brunch and shopping at J. McLaughlin from 10am - 12pm, who will be donating 15% of all weekend’s shopping proceeds to Fashion For Paws. Both Aveda and bluemercury will be offering complimentary makeovers from 12-6pm. Mini spa treatments, brow waxes and chair massages will reign supreme at The Spa @ Equinox from 4pm -6pm. In-store shopping events will give shoppers the perfect opportunity to find a runway-worthy outfit with events such as Joie summer collection trunk show at Ginger, a Diane von Furstenberg trunk show at Urban Chic, and an MZ Wallace trunk show at Sassanova, whose Ava bag was just voted by People Style Watch as the Best Tote Bag for Summer 2011. Jewelry will also play an important role, as Satya’s complete travel inspired collection of jewelry will be featured in a trunk show at Lou Lou.

Friday, May 20 kicks off with a round of stylish trunk shows: Sassanova will feature the accessories of Roarke NYC; Ginger will be showcasing Yoana Baraschi; and Urban Chic will feature Rachel Pally. J. McLaughlin will host a scarf-tying tutorial from 4-6 pm, while My Eye Dr. will host a runway frame sale featuring designers like Tom Ford and Prada at special savings. To prepare for the runway event, Bobbi Brown spring makeovers will be available at bluemercury and complimentary makeover styling, featuring their new spring 2011 palette, will take place at Aveda. Equinox fitness will stage a complimentary class of their Skinny Jeans workout, taught by renowned instructor Robert Sherman, at 1pm.

From 5pm - 7pm, Pink Palm and Assaggi Mozzarella Bar will each host pre-runway events. Pink Palm will be serving wine and cheese and showcasing their Lilly Pulitzer looks, and Assaggi will feature a menu of fashion-focused cocktails and will offer complimentary hors d’oeuvres. On Bethesda Lane, Urban Country will stage their Runway Lounge featuring Brown Jordan. The lounge will be located in front of Redwood.

This year’s celebrity VIP is New York Times best-selling author of "If You Have to Cry Go Outside" and star of her own reality show Kell on Earth: lifestyle guru and PR powerhouse, Kelly Cutrone. Ms. Cutrone will be signing copies of her new book, "Normal Gets You Nowhere," on Bethesda Lane from 5pm - 6pm.

At 7:30 sharp, all eyes will focus on the much-anticipated, third-annual Runway Event of The Front Row. Ms. Cutrone and the area’s top fashionable VIPs will sit in the front row to see designer runway looks from participating Bethesda Row retailers Amethyst, Daddy & Son Camiceria Italiana, Equinox, Ginger, J. McLaughlin, LouLou, lucy, Luna, My Eye Dr., Pink Palm, Sassanova, Urban Chic and Wear it Well. In addition to kicking off the fashion of summer 2011, the runway will showcase an exclusive preview collection from Fall 2011. Models’ runway hair will be styled by Bubbles Salon, and makeup will be done by Bobbi Brown for bluemercury. Following the fashion show, Cutrone will sign copies of her book at Lebanese Taverna, who will be serving signature pomegranate martinis and appetizers from 8:30pm – 10pm.

Saturday, May 22, launches the first ever Chic Children event at The Front Row. Legos on the Lane, which will stage from 10-2 on Bethesda Lane, will allow children to build Lego creations from fashion capitals around the world including Paris, London and New York. Barnes & Noble will host a Fancy Nancy Story Timeat 11am and Cacao will showcase a beignet cooking demonstration in front of the store. On the Row, Kidville’s Little Maestros music group will perform at 1pm, and Urban Country will set up a Russell & Mackenna children’s furniture display utilizing the season’s hottest children’s furniture trends. Adults can still enjoy The Front Row fashions with Sassanova’s Julie Collection trunk show, Ginger’s Calypso St. Barth trunk show and Urban Chic’s Shoshanna trunk show.

One lucky participant can win a $250 shopping spree at their choice of five of the participating boutiques, two copies of Normal Gets You Nowhere, and two seats on the front row by registering at Bethesda Row. Attendees can rsvp for this free screening of Bill Cunningham New York by emailing bcny@brandlinkdcrsvp.com. All events are free to attend; and copies of Ms. Cutrone’s new book, Normal Gets You Nowhere, will be available for sale at the event.


Here's a Full List of Events for this fab Front Row Weekend

Day 1: Thursday, May 19

Headlining Event: Bill Cunningham New York Screening
Kick off The Front Row with a special screening of this year’s biggest fashion documentary, Bill Cunningham New York, tracing the fascinating life of New York Times Style photographer Bill Cunningham, at 8pm, Bethesda Row Cinemas. Dress to be photographed. Admission is free; rsvp to bcny@brandlinkdcrsvp.com.

Aveda: Get gorgeous for The Front Row with Aveda’s new spring shadows and lip shines! Complimentary makeovers from 12-6pm, plus bonus gifts with purchase. 4807 Bethesda Avenue, 301.652.1610

bluemercury: Complimentary makeup and skincare consultations from Laura Mercier. Refreshments served; appointments recommended. 7105 Bethesda Lane, 301.986.0070

Equinox: Enjoy complimentary chair massages, brow waxes and other mini-treatments at The Spa @ Equinox from 4pm - 6pm! 4905 Elm Street, 301.652.1078

Ginger: Joie trunk show. Get your first glimpse of Joie’s casual, sophisticated, understatedly chic summer collection and receive a Joie gift with your purchase. 10am - 8pm. 7114 Bethesda Lane, 301.664.9242

J. McLaughlin: Fashion Breakfast. Kick off The Front Row by shopping J. Mac’s perfectly cut summer shirtdresses (and so much more!) while enjoying brunchy treats from 10am - 12pm. 4851 Bethesda Avenue, 301.951.5272

Lou Lou: Satya jewelry trunk show: see the complete collection of Satya’s travel-inspired collection that incorporates semi-precious gemstones with sterling and gold. 10am - 8pm. 7125 Bethesda Lane, 301.652.0048

Mon Ami Gabi: Stop by with your BFFs for a pre-film Parisian Lemonade: a fashionable concoction made with Grey Goose Citron, Lemons, and Fresh Rosemary, $7. 7239 Woodmont Avenue, 301.654.1234

My Eye Dr.: Designer Sunglasses Sidewalk Sale. Shop Ellen Tracy, Kenneth Cole, Nautica and more—a selection of fashionably fabulous frames for just $40! 7254 Woodmont Avenue, 301.718.2424

Sassanova: MZ Wallace trunk show: browse the complete S/S collection, including the Ava, just voted by People Style Watch as the Best Tote Bag for Summer 2011! Sale continues all weekend. 7134 Bethesda Lane, 301.654.7403

Urban Chic: Diane von Furstenberg trunk show. Shop DVF’s summer collection and save 15% off all trunk show merchandise. 7126 Bethesda Lane, 301.657.0290

Day 2: Friday, May 20

Headlining Event: Kelly Cutrone and The Front Row Runway Event

Don’t miss our signature runway event, featuring a special appearance by Kelly Cutrone, fashion PR maverick star of TV’s Kell on Earth, The City and The Hills and the best selling author of If You Have To Cry, Go Outside. Meet Kelly as she signs her new book, Normal Gets You Nowhere, at 5pm on Bethesda Lane.

At 7:30pm, join us in the front row as we showcase designer looks from Bethesda Row’s best boutiques, including an exclusive look at Fall 2011, followed by an afterparty at Lebanese Taverna.

Pre & Post Runway Events:
Assaggi Mozzarella Bar: A fashion-themed cocktail menu plus complimentary hors d’oevures before you head to The Front Row runway! 5pm - 7pm 4838 Bethesda Avenue, 301.951.1988

Lebanese Taverna: After Party with Kelly. Stop by for Pomegranate martinis and hors d’oevures and book signing from 8:30pm - 10pm 7141 Arlington Road, 301.951.8681

Pink Palm: Pre-runway event. Head to our store for sips and nibbles before you take your seat for the fashion show! Receive a special gift with purchase with your $200 purchase while supplies last! 5pm - 7pm 4867 Bethesda Avenue, 301.913.9191, www.thepinkpalm.net

Urban Country: Relax in the fashionable Urban Country Runway Lounge featuring Brown Jordan outdoor furniture at Redwood beginning at 4pm until the runway show begins! 7117 Arlington Road (store location), 301.654.0050

All Day Events:
Amethyst: Lauren Harper trunk show with designer appearance and 20% off her collection. 10am - 7pm Friday and Saturday.
4806 Bethesda Avenue, 301.907.6871

Aveda: Free makeovers from 12pm - 6pm, plus take 20% off all lip colors all day and receive a gift with any purchase. 4807 Bethesda Avenue, 301.652.1610

bluemercury: Meet Bobbi Brown experts for a spring makeover that utilizes the season’s hottest colors. Refreshments served, appointments recommended. 11am - 6pm Friday and Saturday. 7105 Bethesda Lane, 301.986.0070

Equinox: “The Skinny Jeans WorkoutTM”. Join Equinox for the famed class that uses light weights, yoga and Pilates moves to work your abs and glutes and get you in your skinny jeans in no time! 1pm, class is free and first-come, first-serve. 4905 Elm Street, 301.652.1078

Ginger: Yoana Baraschi trunk show. Save 20% on her trunk show pieces and find your perfect summer look from her cult-followed collection of dresses and separates for Summer 2011. 10am - 8pm. 7114 Bethesda Lane, 301.664.9242,

J. McLaughlin: Scarf-tying class from 4pm - 6pm. Learn how to wear your drawer full of scarves this season while enjoying wine and cheese. 4851 Bethesda Avenue, 301.951.5272

Luna: 2nd Annual Tee Party: Shop designer tees from Velvet, LA Made, Rebecca Beeson, Ella Moss, Splendid and more. Take 15% off plus free gift with your tee purchase. 7232 Woodmont Avenue, 301.656.1111

My Eye Dr.: Runway Frame Sale. See the new summer lines--and take 15% off--top frame designers including Tom Ford and Prada. 7254 Woodmont Avenue, 301.718.2424,

Sassanova: Roarke NYC trunk show: Shop the complete summer collection of super-chic necklaces, bracelets, headpieces and wedding accessories donned by everyone from Ivanka to Julianne Moore. 7134 Bethesda Lane, 301.654.7403

Urban Chic: Rachel Pally trunk show. Shop the collection worn by both Jennifer AND Angelina--and take 15% off your trunk show purchase. 7126 Bethesda Lane, 301.657.0290

Wear It Well: Get Accessorized! Save 25% on special collections from Cousin Claudine, Leatherock, MZ Wallace & Suzi Roher; sale continues through Saturday. 4816 Bethesda Avenue, 301.652.3713


Day 3: Saturday, May 21
Kids Fest on the Lane: 10am - 2pm Bring the kiddies to Bethesda Row: you shop, they have a fashionably fabulous time, including Legos on the Lane, where your budding fashionista can build iconic buildings from fashionable cities around the world: New York, London, Paris and more. Bethesda Lane, 10am-2pm. Plus enjoy a full schedule of fashion events all day!

Just For Kids:
Barnes & Noble: Fancy Nancy Story Time. Enjoy a reading with your child from Fancy Nancy, including Fancy Nancy and the Fabulous Fashion Boutique, at 11am. 4801 Bethesda Avenue, 301.986.1761

Cacao: enjoy fresh beignet cooking demonstration in front of the store. 7129 Bethesda Lane, 301.215.6945

Kidville: Spring Fling Event. Have your kids celebrate the warm weather with arts and crafts, decorating visors/flip flops/picture frames with stickers and markers. Kidville’s Little Maestros performing on Bethesda Lane, 1pm. 4825 Bethesda Avenue, 301.656.5030

Lebanese Taverna: Groovy Nate is making a special appearance on Saturday for storytime. Children enjoy complimentary lunch with each adult purchasing a sandwhich, mezza platter, or entrée. 11:15am
7141 Arlington Road, 301.951.8681

Urban Country: Look for Russell & Mackenna to create most colorful children’s room on Bethesda Lane utilizing the hottest children’s furniture trends. Plus register to win a $1,000 Urban Country gift certificate toward R&M furniture and prizes for the first 200 children! 10am - 2pm. 7117 Arlington Road, 301.654.0050

Saturday Fashion Events:
Equinox: see the much-buzzed-about (and Gilles Bensimon-photographed) looks of the brand new Orange Line of activewear from Equinox, and shop great deals at the Memorial Day Sale at the Shop @ Equinox, main floor. 4905 Elm Street, 301.652.1078

Ginger: Calypso St. Barth trunk show. The beach-perfect separates you’ll live in this summer are here: shop the entire summer collection all day! 7114 Bethesda Lane, 301.664.9242

My Eye Dr.
: Designer frame sale: take up to 80% off designer frames including LaFont all day! And for kids: purchase a pair of prescription eyeglasses, and get the frames fitted with single vision, polycarbonate safety lenses for only $69.
7254 Woodmont Avenue, 301.718.2424

Sassanova: Julie Collection trunk show. It’s vintage, it’s modern, it’s loved by InStyle, Lucky, and yes, even Oprah. Shop the complete collection of perfect summer jewels all day. 7134 Bethesda Lane, 301.654.7403

Urban Chic: Shoshanna Trunk Show. Downtown meets Hamptons with Shoshanna Gruss’ summer collection: take 15% off your trunk show purchase. 7126 Bethesda Lane, 301.657.0290

All Weekend:
Barnes & Noble: B&N Fashion Library: browse the complete library of fashion titles right in the front of the store.
4801 Bethesda Avenue, 301.986.1761

Blue Zen Nails and Spa: Take 15% off all services all weekend long with this brochure, including their acclaimed Spa Express package (mani, pedi and facial!) 4926 Elm Street, 301.907.6868

Bubbles: Take 10% off your cut, color or styling (such as your pre-event blowout!) from Thursday - Sunday with this brochure. Not valid with any other offer. 7118 Bethesda Lane, 301.656.5807

Georgetown Cupcake: Enjoy High-heeled cupcakes designed exclusively for The Front Row all weekend long! 4834 Bethesda Avenue

J. McLaughlin: 15% of all sales all weekend long will be donated to the Washington Humane Society’s Fashion for Paws! 4851 Bethesda Avenue, 301.951.5272

lucy Activewear
: Meet Stella & Dot independent stylist Lori Zerbib and receive a $20 off coupon for Stella & Dot Jewelry for purchases over $150. 7122 Bethesda Lane, 301.656.3106

My Eye Dr.: $100 Off a complete pair of eyeglasses, frames and lenses with this brochure. (Not valid with any other coupon, discount or vision plan benefits. Some restrictions apply). 7254 Woodmont Avenue, 301.718.2424

Pink Palm: Take 20% one full-priced Lilly Pulitzer item, valid Thursday-Saturday. 4867 Bethesda Avenue, 301.913.9191

WHO IS DC's TOP ARTISTA?

And DC's Top Artista is...

Rachel Cothran, Project Beltway



Last night, some of DC's most fashionable babes (including yours truly) participated in an art competition to be DC's Top Artista! This collaborative idea between ArtJamz, Becky's Fund, and Bloomingdales sought to raise money for Becky's Fund, an organization that puts on a variety of programs in order to further its mission of preventing domestic violence. Bloomies donated 10% of all purchases during the event to Becky's Fund!

Competing for the prize last night, along with me, were Kelly Collis (The City Shop Girl), Kate Michael (K Street Kate), Holly Thomas (Washington Post), Elaine Mensah (FashionBS), Rachel Cothran (Project Beltway), and Pamela Sorensen (Pamela’s Punch). Each of us were given a dress to use for inspiration. Our challenge was to use our creative energy to render on canvas our interpretation of the perfect accessory to complement the dress. ArtJamz supplied all of the artistic materials including a canvas, easel, paint and brushes. At the end of the two-hour period, the audience choose the winner.

It was so great to finally meet ArtJamz founder, Michael Clements and his staff. They provided very useful tips that helped us tap into our inner artists. It was also amazing to finally meet Becky Lee of Becky's Fund. I so love what she is doing and her cause is one that is so very important to me. I will always raise my hand to help where empowering women is concerned.

Here are some pics from the night including my design:

My dress and my design



Holly Thomas (who was first runner-up)




Kelly Collis



Kate Michaels



Pamela Sorensen



Elaine Mensah



Many, many thanks to Heather Guay and Bloomingdales in Chevy Chase for hosting the event.

MY FASHION LUST: Wedge Love @ Anthropologie



Totally lovin' these fab metallic beaded wedges at Anthropologie. They just look so comfy and way chic at the same time.

MY FASHION LUST: Making A Statement with Gabrielle Frantzen



My jewelry obsession is almost as bad as my shoe obsession. I will totally stop on a dime to look at jewelry. I will especially begin drooling over big trunk jewelry. So I love this piece by Gabrielle Frantzen. I love that it's called the "Sense and Sensibility" necklace! It's that statement piece that you can wear with anything - an evening out or brunch with the girls. Love it. Available at OTTE.

FASHION DEAL OF THE DAY: Cuff 'Em Danno



This unique crystal-edged cuff is on sale at J.Crew for $39.99.

STYLE SPOTLIGHT: 7 Questions for Titilayo Bankole



Titilayo Bankole wants to give you the manicure of your life. Bankole is famous for sculpting and creating flawlessly healthy nails that tell a story. Even though she was focusing on her career in computer science, Titilayo knew that her creative spirit would eventually lead her to something else. That something else was the perfection of her “critique each finger”™ technique which allows her to sculpt and create picture perfect nails. We caught up with the women who puts the "cure" in manicure. To learn more about Titilayo or to book an appointment, visit her web site.

  1. What do you love most about fashion?
  2. What excites me to love fashion so much is the creativity in each designer that allows me to chose what fits me as an individual; it could be patterns/material that just fits me.

  3. What is your favorite fashion accessory?
  4. A watch/time piece.

  5. What is the hottest nail color(s) at the moment?
  6. Gray in several different shades.

  7. What do you love about being a manicurist?
  8. The liberty to create a story on fingers and toes with color (polish) and designs (Hand paint, abstract lines, nail jewelry etc.)

  9. Who is your style icon(s) and why?
  10. Diana Ross and Sofia Loren. Both have influence me with their sense of style and charisma, are beautiful, smart, versatile with music and acting. Just like wine these women have only gotten better with time. for that reason alone I thank them for their optimistic attitude and courage.

  11. Describe your personal style?
  12. My style is very simple and cheek. Depending on the arena, I'm pretty clean, with a little color. But my watch is my major accessory. It's because of my profession of wearing black 85% of the time, my watch adds color, and conversation.

  13. What can't you live without?
  14. My watch. It tells time and I love it.

DC FASHION BENEFIT: V-Day Fashion Empowering Women 2011



V-Day Fashion Empowering Women 2011 Presents a Benefit Production of

“THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES”

WITH

2011 Grammy Award Nominee Carolyn Malachi, Ana Lopez van Balen-Executive Director of Community Bridges, April Watts, Producer/Host WHW Rocks, Ashley Silva-Creator/CEO of I am Supergorge, Christine Brooks-Cropper, President of GWFCC, Crystal Bass-Author, Delagate Joseline Pena Melnyk Maryland House of Delegates District 21 (D), Denise J. Hart-Founder/Executive Director of The Performing Arts Training Studio, Desiree Samira-CEO Desiree Samira Entertainment Inc, Edwina Lebbie-HALO Trust, Jamila Garrett-Literacy Cultivator/Author, Kamilla Collier Mullin-Ms. Black America DC, Kristina Glaude Smith-Life Coach/Marriage Master, LaTalya Palmer Lewis-Life Coach/Empowerment Trainer, Lindsey Mask-Founder of Ladies DC, Markette Smith-Host of DC on Heels, CW50, Kiki Ramsey-Transformational Life Coach/Dynamic Speaker, Kym Kai, Professional Makeup Artist and Guest Emcee Jeannie Jones, Radio Personality 93.9 WKYS

Join The Fashion Empowering Women Foundation to help raise funds and awareness to end violence against women and girls. Special Award recipient will be Neil Irvin, Executive Director of Men Can Stop Rape.

Who: The Fashion Empowering Women Foundation (FEW)

What: Benefit production of Eve Ensler’s “The Vagina Monologues”

Where: Montgomery College Performing Arts Center 7995 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910

When: Friday April 29th and Saturday April 30th, 7 pm - 10 pm

Buy Tickets: $35 General Admission, $25 Student

Goal: Raise awareness and funds to stop violence against women and girls

Beneficiaries: Women and Girls of Haiti, Our Place DC, DC Fashion Foundation
---

About V-Day
V-Day is a global activist movement to end violence against women and girls that raises funds and awareness through benefit productions of Playwright/Founder Eve Ensler’s award winning play The Vagina Monologues and other artistic works. In 2010, over 5400 V-Day benefit events took place produced by volunteer activists in the U.S. and around the world, educating millions of people about the reality of violence against women and girls. To date, the V-Day movement has raised over $75 million and educated millions about the issue of violence against women and the efforts to end it, crafted international educational, media and PSA campaigns, launched the Karama program in the Middle East, reopened shelters, and funded over 12,000 community-based anti-violence programs and safe houses in Democratic Republic Of Congo, Haiti, Kenya, South Dakota, Egypt and Iraq. In 2001, V-Day was named one of Worth Magazine's "100 Best Charities," in 2006 one of Marie Claire Magazine's Top Ten Charities, and in 2010 was named as one of the Top-Rated organizations on GreatNonprofits. In twelve years, the V-Day movement has reached over 300 million people.


What is a V-Day Campaign?
A V-Day Campaign is a catalyst for mobilizing women and men to heighten awareness about violence against women and girls. By creating this global community, V-Day strives to empower women to find their collective voices and demand an end to the violence that affects one in three women in the U.S and around the world.

FAB VINTAGE FIND: Dresscue Me on Planet Green



While watching The Fabulous Beekman Boys (one of my favorite shows) on Planet Green, I saw a promo for a show called "Dresscue Me." Self-taught designer, Shareen Mitchell, gives new life to dowdy old duds by turning them into chic, fashion-forward frocks. To create these one-of-a- kind pieces, Mitchell welcomes her exclusively female clients into her hip boutiques in both downtown Los Angeles and New York's Chelsea district, to hear their stories and make them over in a distinctly Shareen Vintage style that helps them look and feel their best.

I have totally added this show to my already over-flowing DVR list. I think I missed the first episode, but I am totally going to dish on it each week. The show airs every Tuesday at 10:30 pm on Planet Green.

DC ARTS & MUSIC EVENT: Songbirds of Soul



Celebrate the music of three Queens of Hip Hop & R&B: Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill & Aaliyah. Just Cause Events will pay homage to their musical sovereignty through Jazz and Abstract Art on Wednesday, May 4th 2011, 7 PM - 11 PM at Martin’s Lounge | 1919 9th St, NW | Washington DC. Special Live Performances by DC's own Alison Carney and C Love.

Get Your Limited Advanced $10 Tickets

DC STYLE (AND FOOD) EVENT: Chefs Showcase Fashionable Creations For Sweet Charity



10th Annual Sweet Charity Showcases Local Chefs’ Fashionable Creations

WHAT
Washington, DC top chefs turn chocolate and sugar into fanciful dresses and accessories to benefit local charity with national impact!

Award-winning chefs will unveil their mastery of cocoa and couture at the decadent Sweet Charity benefit event, featuring the Des Alpes Chocolate Fashion Show. Sweet Charity is co-hosted by Albert Uster Imports (AUI), a fine gourmet food company, and the Heart of America Foundation® (HOA), a DC-based nonprofit that combines volunteer service and literacy to support the needs of at-risk children in the D.C. area as well as nationwide. Proceeds will go to help HOA’s Books From The Heart™ program to provide books to children living in poverty who have few or no books of their own. Event attendees will be able to sample creations from the area’s top chefs and watch the Des Alpes Chocolate Fashion Show, featuring 15 models dressed in chocolate and edible accessories.

WHO
Event Chairs: Warren Graves, Chief of Staff, Office of the City Administrator, Executive Office of the Mayor and Barbara Hawthorn, Barbara Hawthorn Interiors, Ltd.

  • Emcee: Leon Harris and Natasha Barrett, WJLA-TV

  • More than 60 local chefs will offer sweet and savory tastings and gravity-defying chocolate sculptures

  • More than 15 local chefs will create chocolate couture for the runway



WHEN
Monday, April 25, 2011
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Tasting stations, open bar, silent and live auctions
8:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Awards presented for Chef of the Year and Principal of the Year
8:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Des Alpes Chocolate Fashion Show

WHERE
Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C.
1330 Maryland Ave., SW
Washington, DC 20024

TICKETS
You can get your tickets at Heart of America.

Georgetown Transforms into a Parisian Market




8th Annual Open-Air Georgetown French Market Returns to Hip & Historic
Georgetown, DC on Friday, April 29th and Saturday, April 30th, 2011

Georgetown BID-hosted signature open-air European market brings a bit of Paris to DC with superb shopping deals at over 30 Georgetown merchants, authentic French fare, and strolling entertainment


April signals the return of warm weather, spring fashions and of course, one of DC’s most charming outdoor shopping events of the year. Georgetown’s signature 8th annual open-air French Market returns to the Book Hill neighborhood on April 29-30, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., bringing a bit of Paris to DC. Hosted by the Georgetown Business Improvement District (BID), this annual event takes place in the Book Hill area of Georgetown, located on upper Wisconsin Avenue, NW, between P Street and Reservoir Road and offers Washingtonians a chance to welcome spring with superb shopping, French cuisine and exciting entertainment along the neighborhood’s quaint cobblestone streets.


A trip to Paris without the airfare, this unique European-like market will feature two days of incredible deals on the latest trends, the scents of fresh bread and coffee, and the sounds of charming accordion music. Shoppers can score savings of up to 70 percent off designer goods and art and antique home furnishings at over 30 participating boutiques, antique shops, restaurants and galleries. The streets will come alive with strolling musicians and mimes, while families can enjoy children’s activities including a caricature artist, balloon sculptor and more with Dumbarton House and Tudor Place. Completing the European experience, several of Georgetown’s best restaurants and cafĂ©s will serve authentic French fare street-side including crepes, grilled merguez sausages, fresh breads, cheeses and more.


Participating merchants include: A MANO, Addison/Ripley Fine Arts, Bacchus Wine Cellar, Café Bonaparte, Darrell Dean Antiques, Dolcezza Gelato, For Your Home, Ilo, Ipsa, Jaryam Couture Lingerie, Leonidas Chocolates, Metro Interiors, Patisserie Poupon, Piccolo Piggies of Georgetown, Puro Café, Rooms With A View, Sassanova, Sherman Pickey, Susan Calloway Fine Arts, The Bean Counter, The Dog Shop, The French Apartment, The Magic Wardrobe, The Phoenix and Urban Chic. A complete list of participating merchants will be continuously updated online at Georgetown Life.


For those interested in catching the Royal Wedding on April 29, Puro CafĂ© will feature the Royal Wedding and serve tea and English treats throughout the day. Following the Royal Wedding, guests are invited to stop by Patisserie Poupon for freshly baked scones and English tea. Urban Chic and Ilo Salon will help shoppers “Get Kate’s Look” with exclusive styling tips and products.


Raising money for The Friends of Book Hill Library, stylish reusable Georgetown French Market tote bags will be available for purchase at $2 each with 100% of proceeds benefiting the organization. The bags will be sold at the Georgetown French Market event as well as at participating Georgetown stores two weeks prior to the event.


Visitors can further enjoy the beautiful spring day and tour some of the most gorgeous, exquisite homes in the nation’s capitol at the famed Georgetown House Tour on April 30, 2011. A 90-year tradition, the annual Georgetown House Tour offers Washingtonians and visitors a glimpse into eight to 12 of the most impressive homes and gardens in Georgetown, home to some of the country’s most impactful, powerful leaders. Homes will open for tours from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a hosted tea from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets will be available for purchase online from March 1 – April 28 at Georgetown House Tour and can also be purchased at St. John’s Episcopal Church on Friday, April 29 and Saturday, April 30. For more information please visit Georgetown House Tour or call 202-338-1796.

Attendees of the Georgetown French Market can avoid parking and traffic by taking the Circulator from Downtown D.C. or from the Rosslyn and Dupont Circle Metro Stations. The Circulator’s Georgetown-Union Station line takes visitors up Wisconsin to the Book Hill neighborhood.


About the Georgetown Business Improvement District

The Georgetown Business Improvement District (BID) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing the accessibility, attractiveness and overall appeal of Georgetown. Established in 1999 by its property owners and merchants, the Georgetown BID has more than 1,000 members. The organization is located in the heart of Georgetown in Washington, D.C and sets a standard of excellence in preserving historic charm while meeting contemporary needs. From marketing and special events, to transportation and streetscape, the Georgetown BID contributes to the vitality and quality of life in Georgetown. For more information please visit georgetowndc.com. Follow Georgetown on Twitter: twitter.com/georgetowndc.

BONUS FASHION DEAL OF THE DAY: Add Some Silk To Your Closet



This adorable sandwashed silk skirt can be yours for the lovely price of $44.99. Available at Banana Republic.

FASHION DEAL OF THE DAY: Fake It Til' You Make It



Love this clutch with its faux snakeskin center. Available at New York & Company for $18.86.

FASHION INSPIRATION: Bottega Veneta & Tomas Maier Explore Hotel Life

Bottega Veneta: Viaggio Notturno on Nowness.com.

There's Something Going On @GtownCupcakes... Find out Tonight at 10 pm on TLC



The season finale of DC Cupcakes has some drama in store for its viewers. Mom spills the beans about Katherine. But I can't tell you everything. You will just have to watch tonight on TLC at 10 pm EST. But here's a sneak peek.

ArtJamz, Paint, and Some Fashionable Babes



Here's the deal! On April 21st, some of DC's most fashionable babes will be competing to raise money for Becky's Fund, an organization that puts on a variety of programs in order to further its mission of preventing domestic violence. Bloomies will be donating 10% of all purchases during the event to Becky's Fund! So fab.

Yours truly, along with Kelly Collis (The City Shop Girl), Jennifer Barger (Washington Post), Kate Michael (K Street Kate), Holly Thomas (Washington Post), Elaine Mensah (FashionBS), Rachel Cothran (Project Beltway), and Pamela Sorensen (Pamela’s Punch) will be vying for the title "Washington's Top Artista." ArtJamz founder, Michael Clements, is putting our creativity to the test. ArtJamz will be supplying the artistic materials including a canvas, easel, paint and brushes. Our challenge is create a painting to match the season's hottest looks. At the end of the two-hour period, the audience will choose the winner.

So come on out and see who will be crowned "Washington's Top Artista!" I can pull together a fab outfit in minutes. But we will see if I can channel Jacob Lawrence or Wassily Kandinsky to pull this off!

Here are the deets:

Bloomingdale's in Chevy Chase
5300 Western Avenue
Chevy Chase, MD 20815

When: Thursday, April 21, 2011
Time: 6:30PM to 8:30PM


Hosted by: Bloomingdale’s Genki Media LLC, and Becky’s Fund
It's free and open to the public and you can register at Washington's Top Artista.

CALL FOR DRESS DONATIONS: Prom Dress Project 2011



To donate your gently-worn bridesmaids and special occasions dresses, email us at: thepromdressproject@gmail.com. Thanks in advance.

DC STYLE EVENT: Nicky B's Spring Trunk Show

DC FASHION EVENT: Mother Earth, Earth Day & Carbon Boutique




Mother Earth Inspirations: Earth Day Eco-Fashion Show with Sexy, Sustainable Fashion

How do we honor Earth Day? Some people resolve to start recycling more, greenies update their Facebook status with sustainable tips, article links and witty green-inspired comments, businesses show their corporate social responsibility in the form of events and outreach to their staff, and our nation’s capital holds a large Earth Day celebration on the National Mall...

Rather than limit our recognition to one day, we can reduce our carbon footprint throughout the year by incorporating sustainable habits into our daily routine, such as shopping more sustainably - beginning with our wardrobe. “Green fashion” doesn't necessarily mean bamboo tees and hemp shorts. Go green with a growing list of emerging designers who use alternative fabrics and/or toxic-free production methods to produce stylish, innovative, and functional apparel, shoes, and accessories. Carbon boutique can help you get started.

Join Carbon boutique, 2643 Connecticut Ave NW in Woodley Park on Friday, April 22, 2011 from 6:00pm-9:00pm, for an eco-fashion experience. Meet Auralis Herrero, of Auralis Studios, a New York-based eco-fashion artist featured in New York Fashion Week September 2010.

Auralis’ brand is committed to sustainable practices that are considerate to the planet. They pride themselves in making beautifully designed, timeless pieces that are also practical and fashion forward. They use organic, sustainable, natural or recycled fabrics only. Also featured will be Filili, accessories whose earrings and necklaces are hand crafted using wire and recycled fabrics - making each piece one-of-a-kind.

Get an exclusive look at their 2011 spring collections for the first time in Washington, DC while enjoying organic wine provided by Calypso Organics, browsing Carbon’s sustainable inventory, learning about My Signature Look’s eco-fashion consulting services and possibly treating yourself to that favorite new spring dress!

See Auralis’ Spring collection.

Tickets are available at Earth Day Eco Show. A proceed of ticket sales will benefit DC Treads, a volunteer-founded and volunteer-driven initiative designed to keep the art and science of sewing & stitch crafts alive and well in the Washington metropolitan area.

DC/MD/VA HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS: Sign Up for The Prom Dress Project 2011!


WANT TO ATTEND YOUR PROM BUT YOU JUST CAN’T SEEM TO FIND AN AFFORDABLE DRESS?



Your fairy godmothers have arrived! The Prom Dress Project 2011 wants to help you to get an outfit for one of the most memorable days of your life. We want you to go to your prom in style. Attendees will be able to pick out a dress, a pair of shoes, and even something sparkly. The best part is that it is all for free! Plus, one lucky girl will win the PDP2011 Grand Prize**

THE PROM DRESS PROJECT 2011
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20, 2011

5:00 PM TO 8:00 PM


CHINATOWN COFFEE CO.
475 H STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20001


OUR RULES
  • You must register using Eventbrite and print a ticket. Get your tickets here. Only 150 tickets are available. You must bring your ticket to gain entry.
  • You must be a current high school student (ID is req uired).
  • Only one PDP2011 set (dress, shoes, jewelry, purse) per person.
  • You will only be allowed to bring one person with you (preferably a parent).
  • No adults will be allowed to shop for someone not in attendance.



OUR SPONSORS

BRAVERY CORPORATION ∙ CHINATOWN COFFEE CO. ∙ MAX BROWN ∙ THE CAPITOL FASHIONISTA ∙ THE BRIDAL WISHLIST ∙ POLISHED IMAGE & STYLE ∙ ECO-BEAUTIFUL WEDDINGS ∙ GOODWILL OF GREATER DC ∙ WHITNEY STRINGER PR ∙ SO MUCH TO SMILE ABOUT ∙ STYLIN’ AND PROFILIN’ ∙ THE INDUSTRY X



**Visit our sister web site, The Prom Dress Project for details.