June 13, 2017 | Filed under Beauty, STYLE TIPS 
May 1, 2017 | Filed under Fashion, STYLE TIPS 
I am sure many of you (like myself) would love to go splurge on a brand new spring wardrobe. But seeing how that's probably not realistic why not take a little time and give yourself a wardrobe edit right? There are so many fun new trends to incorporate into your wardrobe and adding just a few new items will definitely keep your wardrobe updated and fresh for the season. From slides and mules to off the shoulder and bell sleeve blouses there are endless options for staying on trend and looking fabulous. And if you're looking to add some color to your wardrobe go for blush tones, pastels, and light blue-nothing screams spring more than these gorgeous colors. Shop below for some of our favorite IT items for spring/summer.
February 2, 2017 | Filed under Fashion, STYLE TIPS, TV appearances Yesterday I was over at Good Day DC at Fox 5 sharing some fun Athleisure looks. Athleisure is all about taking the looks you wear for your workout or at the gym and wearing them out to coffee, work, running errands, and other casual social occasions. I featured three athleisure looks from Bethesda Row boutiques- Kit &Ace, Lucy, and Ministry of Supply.
Models from left to right
Thanks to Tucker NYC for the Market Dress and to Sophie Blake for the cuff and earrings.
January 5, 2017 | Filed under Fashion, STYLE TIPS, sponsored post 
It is starting to feel like winter today in Washington D.C. and as I begin to wear more of my wool and cashmere sweaters I am finding that some of them need a little TLC. I have teamed up with Banana Republic to share my top 5 style tips for caring for your sweaters this winter season.
1. Hand wash sweaters when needed. I usually throw my sweaters in the washing machine on a delicate low spin cycle and I use warm water with a gentle soap. But to be honest it's probably best to hand wash them in a sink if you can. (I am just too lazy!) After washing never wring sweaters because doing so will cause the sweaters to lose their shape. Also to mainstain the shape of sweaters sure always lay them flat to dry and never hang them up on the drying rack. Once my sweaters are dry I like to either run a steamer on them or toss them in the dryer on very low heat for 2-3 minutes. It helps to soften and fluff them up a bit.
2. Steam sweaters between washes. One of the easiest ways to care for your sweaters between washes is to steam them. A steamer is more gentle than an iron and it is convenient and produces great results. I have this handheld steamer and LOVE IT. Not only does a steamer remove wrinkles but it works great to freshen up and restore the shape of sweaters as well.
3. Properly store sweaters by folding them. It's best to fold sweaters instead of hanging them so that they maintain their shape and don't stretch. But having said that I hang all my sweaters with these plastic hangers. I tend to hang mine only because I have more hanging space vs. drawer space. But for cashmere or delicate sweaters I always fold them and put them in drawers.
4. Use a de-pilling and de-fuzzing comb. Pilling is common with sweaters and it is caused by rubbing during wear. Pilling is most apparent under the armpits and elbows but I have seen it happen all over my sweaters. Try an inexpensive comb like this one to de-pill and de-fuzz sweaters. Also as soon as you see pilling, lint, or fuzz you should remove them-don't let this build up. Also if you get holes in your sweaters it's best to take it to a seamstress to be repaired. This happened to me with my favorite cashmere cardigan and luckily I was able to fix the hole and the sweater is as good as new.
5. Wear a base-layer under your sweaters. Unless the sweater is fitted and tight I usually wear a tank or long sleeve tee (like this one) under my sweaters. The idea here is that the tank touches your skin and creates a barrier between your skin and the sweater. The barrier will prolong the life of your sweater because the sweater isn't coming into contact with your body oils, sweat, and odors. Also some wool and mohair sweaters are itchy and wearing a layer in between helps reduce itching and discomfort.
SHOP MY FAVORITE SWEATERS FROM BANANA REPUBLIC
Thanks to Banana Republic for sponsoring this post. Photos by Tamzin Smith
December 20, 2016 | Filed under Fashion, STYLE TIPS 
Holiday season is here and it can all be a little stressful and overwhelming when it comes to deciding what to wear to all these parties but with just a little bit of planning the entire process can be fun and enjoyable.
My friend and photographer Tazmin Smith came over last week for tea and she was telling me how she had two back to back holiday parties and she was trying to figure out what to wear. Tamzin ended up ordering a colorful dress from Rent The Runway and bought a new pair of black pumps and both ended up working out great. I mentioned to her that if the dress didn't work out it's always good to have a few key pieces in your wardrobe at all times so you have a backup. A sparkly little black dress, fun lace top, statement shoes, or a pleated skirt are all items you can play around with and create fun and festive holiday outfits with.
We did this very impromptu photoshoot at my house just for fun just to show that if you have the right items in your wardrobe you can put together a holiday outfit last minute. I love lace and the combination of this lace blouse, black pants, and a pair of statement shoes is a great look if you are struggling with what to wear. You could also do a brighter lip and add some jewelry for a little more sparkle.
Below are some things to consider when dressing up for a holiday party.
Style Tips For The Holidays
1. Consider the type of event and where it's being held at. Start your planning process by answering these questions first. If it's an office party stick with an outfit that is appropriate-so no short skirts and limit the flashy attire. If it's at someone's house ask the host what the dress code is. Usually these type of parties call for a more dressy casual look. And if it's a gala or more formal holiday party be sure to dress up for the occasion with a fancier cocktail dress or gown. You can show some skin but make sure you do it in a classy way. Lastly if the party is at a bar or restaurant go for something more chic and trendy.
2. Add some fun and sparkly jewelry to your outfit. The holiday season is a great time to pull out those pieces of jewelry you may not be regularly wearing. And it's the perfect time of year to elevate and dress up your style.
3. Try a bold beauty look. The holidays are a great time to try a bold pink lip, smoky eyes , or just a make up look that is fun and new to you. Experiment and have fun with your makeup.
4. Experiment with textures and layers. When it comes to your outfit take some risks and be playful and festive. Try velvet, lace, suede or other fun winter textures and consider prints and patterns to add some interest to your holiday looks.
5. Introduce some color into your outfit to reflect the festive season. If you're like me and like to wear neutrals and black a lot use this holiday season to change up your style and reach for a bright blouse or dress. Step out of your comfort zone and change up your style.
6. When in doubt shop your closet. Pair up black pants like I have done here with a lace or sequin blouse or something festive in your wardrobe. As long as you wear your outfit with confidence and a smile you will look and feel great! And by the way these leggings I am wearing are AMAZING and I am planning on buying them in the wine color too. They are flattering, soft, and wash really well. I have literally been living in them this week.
