Fab Fashion Blog

Simone Visits the DC Mobile FAB-LAB

2010-11-14T06:10:00.000-08:00

The mobile DC Fab Lab is essentially is a trailer full of equipment that can be used to manufacture all sorts of objects from etched wood display pieces to circuit boards and complex machinery and even fashion apparel and jewelry.

Thanks to the efforts of Phyllis Klein, creatives from all over the DC area can now explore their creativity and make any item that comes to mind.

Simone: How did you get involved with the Fab Lab?

Phyllis Klein: I was encouraged by a friend, who was spending a year as a visiting scientist at MIT and was taking the course "How to Make (Almost) Anything", to bring FAB LAB to DC.

S: Where is the permanent DC lab going to be located?

P: The permanent FAB LAB DC will be located on the first floor of 1418 North Capitol Street, NW.

S: Who will have access to the lab? How does a person like me gain access? Do they need to be a DC resident?

P: The plan is to have the lab open to the general public, entrepreneurs & inventors, designers & artists. Fab Lab DC will also offer classes, demonstrations, exhibitions, special collaborative projects, and visiting guests (scientists/makers/artists, etc.). There will be an schedule, with on-line access to sign up, for classtime, workshop time, and project time.

S: Are fashion designers using the FAB LABs to create collections?

P: Yes. Here are links to a few designers who are using Fab Lab to make fashion!

Jennine Bresser

Nervous System

Bohemian Boss & ARTAYA @ Industry Gallery

2010-10-31T14:47:00.000-07:00

Bohemian Boss Gallery: Dana is seated front right

On Saturday, October 30, 2010, Dana Greaves, local fashion designer and artist wowed us again with an eclectic blend of wearable ARTAYA Bohemian Boss apparel presented at Industry Gallery in NE.

Dana is the ultimate Bohemian Boss and we most definitely approve.

FAB, D! Thanks for raising the bar.

Robin Givhan (Washington Post Style writer), Craig Applebaum (Proprietor of Industry Gallery) and Moi.

Model wearing ARTAYA Bohemian Boss!

Craig Applebaum, proprietor of Industry Gallery looks pleased as punch! Great event. Great turnout.

Simone Butterfly: Raffling a few of my Favorite Things

Fashion Lawyer Launches DC Fashion Consortium: A Fashion Think Tank

2010-10-28T06:49:00.000-07:00

Fashion Attorney Mariessa Terrell, CEO of Simone Butterfly Co.

Fashion Lawyer, Mariessa Terrell launches DC Fashion Consortium, a fashion think tank.

On October 10, 2010 from 4pm to 8pm, fashion lawyer, Mariessa Terrell hosted a Champagne and Smores fete at the Bungalow to commemorate the launch of the DC Fashion Consortium, a 501(c)(3) fashion think tank dedicated to maximizing the economic impact of the fashion industry in WDC by

promoting local fashion talent in print, film, television and special events;
developing fashion education programs
documenting DC's unique fashion history; and
fact finding to drive awareness about the social economic and political impact of the fashion industry worldwide.

Fashion Friends!

Judy, Judge Mary Terrell & Mariessa TerrellStephany Greene (Founder & Coordinator Fashion Merchandising Program at Community College of the District of Columbia)

Phyllis Klein, Outreach Coordinator for Washington Area Lawyers for the Arts and Fab Lab representative

Mariessa, Judge Terrell and Myss Stephens (proprietor of Glamourholics)Judge Terrell, Stephany Greene (founder of Fashion Merchandising Program at Community College of District of Columbia), Judy and Myss Stevens (proprietor of Glamourholics)

Mariessa & JudyIP Attorney Bryant Young (founder of BL Young Law) and Judge Mary Terrell

Myss Stephens, proprietor of Glamourholics
Jewelry designer, Tanya Logan Fashion Designer, Tristan Blake
Outdoor Chic fashion presentation featuring designs by Tristan Blake
Model Wearing a distressed denim gown by Tristan Blake
Makeup Artist Aisha Ferguson
Makeup Artist, Aisha Ferguson and IP Attorney Bryant Young

Mariessa & Fashion Designer Dana Greaves (ARTAYA)

Attorney Bryant Young, founder of BL Young Law

WHO IS REALLY WHO IN THE FASHION CAPITAL?

2010-09-20T17:20:00.000-07:00

On September 15, 2010, Mariessa Terrell was

Recognized in Who's Who in Black Washington

as a

Woman of Excellence and an Emerging Leader Under 40!

unveiled Thursday, September 15, 2010 during the Congressi

onal Black Caucus

See full page here (page 120):

And in other news:

Christine Brooks Cropper attempts to re-write history (page 186)

FOR THE RECORD, DARLINGS:

The Washington DC Fashion Council was formed in 2006 by Mariessa and Christine.

Project Beltway Interview June 2007

Washington Post July 2007

Who Drafted Bill 17-173?
Mariessa, a freelance writer and intellectual property attorney drafted (the Fashion) Bill 17-173 - Commission on Fashion Arts and Events Establishment Act. Christine helped to edit the Bill.
Who Coordinated the forum " Life Liberty and the Pursuit of a Fashion Capital"?
Mariessa and Christine coordinated the forum to discuss the Fashion Bill and the need for a Commission on Fashion. The forum was part of the High Tea Society Capital Catwalk fashion event held at the Washington Gas Rotunda in June 2007 (thanks to the generosity of Roberta Simms.) The High Tea Society is a mentoring program for girls founded by Judge Mary Terrell (Mariessa's mom).
What is the Capital Catwalk?
The Capital Catwalk is a benefit for the High Tea Society (HTS), a mentoring program for girls founded in 1997 by Judge Mary Terrell.

Mariessa launched the Capital Catwalk in 2004 as a fundraiser for HTS to recognize local and international star stars. From 2004-2006 the Capital Catwalk was held at the Four Seasons Hotel. In 2007 the Catwalk was held at the Andrew Mellon Auditorium. In 2009 the Capital Catwalk was held at the Omni Shoreham Hotel.

Capital Catwalk fashion events have honored: Andre Leon Talley, Tim Gunn, Bethann Hardison, Dr. Dorothy Height, Ann Hand, Darlene Mathis, Toddre & Bill Monier and Louis Everard. Capital Catwalk events have featured fashion designs by Stephen Burrows, B. Michael, Byron Lars, Rachel Roy and many others.

What happended to the WDC Fashion Council? In October 2007, both Mariessa and Christine agreed to terminate the WDC Fashion Council.

What is Mariessa doing now?
Mariessa continues to provide branding and intellectual property law services to national and international fashion designers, through her company Simone Butterfly Co. founded in 2003. Mariessa also serves as committee chair to the Washington Area Lawyers for the Arts (WALA) Committee on Legal Issues in the Fashion Industry.

Truth is Better Than Fiction, Honest!

SEX & THE CITY: Fashion to the Rescue, Literally!

2010-06-07T19:02:00.000-07:00

Walking up the steps of AMC theater #8, I feel a butterfly or two. Michael Patrick King has attempted to “Carrie” the SATC storyline into unchartered territory. And I am nervous. Can he successfully navigate our girls beyond “marriage and a baby”?

After all, sequels are notoriously risky. What are the odds that Carrie Bradshaw would morph into James Bond or Jason Bourne? 10 to 1.

Flash back a year or so ago, when the much anticipated SATC 1 premiered. During the heady opening week, virtually every screening was teaming with girl friends flitting about in embellished shoe candy. To celebrate the launch, my gal pals and I stayed overnight at the Ritz Carlton in McLean. After breakfast we attended a private viewing with 200 other glamazons. We laughed and cried and clamored for more.

Apparently Michael heard us. So, today I am dressed up for him and another SATC occasion. No pink tulle skirt this time. Instead, I opt for contrast in the form of a black Coup de Foudre bustier, Nicole Miller white cotton tulip skirt and 3 inch canvas black and white Marc Jacob platforms secured by a prim bow around the ankle.

With 15 minutes before show time, I add an extra bounce to my step. “I hope I can find a seat,” I murmur aloud. Turns out, I am the first to arrive.

15 minutes later, though. The theater is almost full. Yet, the earlier butterflies never return.

In the 12 years since the original SATC HBO show aired, our favorite series has lost some of its “sparkle.” This is not to suggest that Patricia Field’s 2010 costume choices are dull. Au contra-ire! The wardrobe selections are dramatic, colorful and fun. The copper sequined Christian Louboutin stilettos Carrie pairs with the white vintage Halston dress in scene 1 are uber chic. Love, love, love the black jumpsuit she wears to the party with Big. And the Christian Dior newsprint dress from season 3 is exactly what a stylish fashion investigator should wear out on a date with her man.

Fashion saves the day, literally! Without Field’s fashion eccentricities, SATC 2 would have derailed soon after Liza Minnelli concluded her rendition of “Put A Ring On It.” The word smith in me blames the weak script for most of the movie’s short comings. The lack of snap crackle and pop in the dialogue was a major loss. This second time around the jokes appears forced and the girls, with the exception of Miranda, cease being sympathetic and relatable.

Since SATC 1, Carrie and Charlotte have gotten virtually everything they “said” they wanted. Carrie finally marries Big, continues working as a successful writer and gains another dream closet. (This makes 2!). Charlotte is (still) married to Harry and is busy raising 2 baby girls with the help of a competent and highly trained nanny. Yet, both characters spend the majority of the movie finding fault with their perks to the point of almost destroying them.

Samantha on the other hand has remained exactly where we left her in SATC 1: single fabulous and in her fifties. But instead of gaining wisdom with age, Samantha regresses right before our eyes. Remember season 3 episode 16 (“Frenemies”) when Samantha gets out Samantha-ed by Claire Ann, another middle aged blonde? At the conclusion of “Frenemies”, Samatha declares that even she has a line that she will not cross. Yet, by the end of SATC 2, Samantha crosses the line and a dessert becoming the quintessential “ugly American.”

And then there was Miranda-Fan-tas-tic. She virtually glows in the mustard Bottega Veneta draped jersey dress she wore in the first scene. And, (gasp) the plunging black V necked gown with the metallic studs...(gasp)...was contemporary, edgy and sophisticated! Miranda has come a long way from the snarky sarcastic woman we met 12 years ago. The “new” Miranda consistently radiates positive energy and provides a much needed balance that grounds the other girls and in turn the entire movie.

It is highly unlikely that there will be a SATC 3. I’m not sad because I enjoyed the ride. In addition to adding a dose of glamour to the mundane, Carrie, for her part, always manages to sneak in a lesson before the credits roll. Today, we’ve learned that the quest for “sparkle” can be overrated if it jeopardizes what you’ve worked your whole life to build up. Who couldn’t benefit from this adage?

DC Tea Maven Chucks her Teapot for Nespresso Machine

2010-02-15T16:20:00.001-08:00

It had to be something extra special and super stylish to make me want to
chuck my silver tea set.

Enter the tres elegant Italian Nespresso machine sold at Bloomingdales.

I'm Awake NOW!

Chevy Camaro Wardrobe Essentials

2010-02-13T14:28:00.001-08:00

Fashion Query #21

My pre-ordered V-8 6 speed black Camaro arrives on Friday. Any ideas on what to wear to the Chevy dealership?

Please advise.

SIMONE SAYS: Gold star for helping buttress the beleaguered US economy, darling. We recommend a Miss Sixty one piece denim jump suit, Louis Vuitton driving gloves in hot pink, suede JP Tod mocs and Tom Ford aviators. Very Charlie, angel.

Lashes Rule!

2009-11-06T10:45:00.000-08:00

Check out these mod lashes from Sephora!

Halloween Hysterics!

2009-10-30T17:32:00.001-07:00

Vamping for the Camera and Channeling a
Stylicious Sow in the City!

Louboutin Signs Soles and Elevates DMV Style One Pump at a Time

2009-10-30T16:50:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday, Christian Louboutin greeted over 150 style-istas and singe-handedly elevated the fashion standard for the DMV.

Of course, we were on hand (thanks to a tip from fellow fashion blogger Katherine L.) along with our very favorite not to mention famous DC dermatologist, Dr. Cheryl Burgess.

Enjoy these fab pics courtesy of Dr. C. B! (See Dr. B to the right of C. Louboutin)

-Air Kisses, darlings.

Picture Perfect: Meridian Hill Park

2009-10-27T05:28:00.000-07:00

Fall continues to make quite an impression on me.

Case in point: Meridian Hill Park.

The water is back on, darling!

"One of the intriguing feature of the park is the thirteen basin cascade fountains that form the center of the lower level formal garden. The fountains are designed with a recirculating water system which, through an elaborate series of pumps, supplies water to two large circular fountains on the upper level, and cascade found on the lower. Each cascade bowl flows to a larger bowl as they descend to the bottom. Water fills one bowl, overflowing into the next, until it reaches the large reflecting pool in the plaza."

Read More

French Vogue Strikes a Dissident Pose!

2009-10-25T01:48:00.000-07:00

If you have not seen the recent French Vogue pictorial showing Dutch model Lara Stone in Black Face, allow us to verify the veracity of the rumor. Apparently Vogue Italia is the only Conde Nast fashion Publication that consistantly recognizes and celebrates the contributions of Black Women in the area of fashion.

These ridiculous photographs were taken by American photographer Steven Klein and actually styled by French Vogue editor, Carine Roitfeld.

Interesting Quote from Carine:

"French Vogue is fashion and sex, liberally spiced with controversy. "I like to have something every month that is - how you say? - not politically correct. A little bit at the limit. Sex, nudity, a bit rock'n'roll, a sense of humour. That is very French Vogue," she says.

What the CupCake, indeed!

Remember darlings, silence = consent.

Send your comments, quips and gentle reminders to:

CONDE NAST DIGITAL

26 rue Cambacérès

75008 PARIS

Tel: 01 53 43 60 00
Fax: 01 53 43 61 61

Directrice Commerciale :

Sophie Antoine
santoine@condenast.fr

Directrice de clientèle :
Laure Civet-de Louvencourt
lcivet@condenast.fr

Chef de publicité :
Marine Parmentier
mparmentier@condenast.fr

Chef de publicité :
Claire Richard
crichard@condenast.fr

What's in VOGUE??? The Black Barbie of course!

2009-07-22T15:31:00.000-07:00

July 2009 Vogue Italia features BLACK BARBIE insert!

2009-07-15T17:13:00.000-07:00

A few of my favorite pics from the Vogue Italia June 2009 Barbie supplement.
Pics taken by Tefani Williams!

See More!

See Article on MYFOXDC.com!

http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/myvoicedc/featured/Myvoicedc_Wishes_Barbie_a_Hap

Last Friday, Lulu, my fab friend in Milan fed exed 3 copies of the VOGUE ITALIA 2009 issue that contained an insert that contains decadent pictorials of BLACK BARBIE.

Last July, I hosted a Models, Bottles and BBQ Garden Party to commemorate the launch of July 2008 Vogue Italia issue. The July 2008 Vogue Italia issue was the most coveted magazine in history. It was called the Black Issue and featured over 50 of the best black models in the fashion business photographed by Steven Meisel.

In July 2009, Vogue Italia commemorates the 50th Anniversary of Barbie with a 100 pictorials featuring Black Barbie dolls. OOH LA LA.

A few weeks ago, we sat down to chat with Gianni Grossi and Mario Paglino, the two Italian Barbie Collector designers responsible for styling and coordinating the Black Barbie insert.

Simone Butterfly: ¡Ciao! Come stai?

Mario Paglino: I am very, very well.

Simone: Wonderful. My name is Simone, your fabulous freelance fashion investigator. Tell us about your collaboration with Mattel.

Mario: Oh, we collaborate with Mattel in Italy and in the U.S. We coordinate special events like the Barbie convention and the Barbie birthday party held in Italy. We also design special one-of-a-kind dolls.

Simone: You have two beautiful one-of-a-kind dolls in your hands. Please describe them for us.

Mario: Oh thank you. These dolls are a replica of Madonna. We created them dolls for the Madonna exhibition in London this February 2009 and March 2009. One is a replica of the Christian Lacroix dress that she wore in the Re-Invention tour. The other is the very famous corset worn in the Who’s That Girl video. Both dolls are one-of-a-kind with her complete repainting.

Simone: So when you design a doll, do you also design the hair, the make-up, the face, everything?

Mario: Everything. We start with a classic doll or a collectable doll and we we take off all of the repainting and start again.

Simone: Beautiful! Well done. Now tell me about the July 2009 issue of Vogue Italia. I thoroughly enjoyed the 2008 July issue featuring the most celebrated black models in the business.

Mario: There’s a new one! There’s a new one! I’ll tell you what I can because many of the viewers will be thrilled to see it. The July 2009 Vogue Italia contains a new booklet. The very, very special booklet is about black Barbie. We were fortunate to style the Barbie for the photo shoot.

Simone: How many pages are in the booklet?

Mario: More than 100.

Simone: Oh my goodness!

Mario: People will enjoy it. It’s a beautiful issue. I really think they will love it.

Simone: So does the booklet feature other designers other than you and Gianni Grossi?

Mario: We are the only one-of-a-kind designers to have the honor of being featured in the Vogue Italia July issue. We collaborated with Mattel on his issue.

Simone: What is your favorite page in the booklet?

Mario: Oh, you mean other than mine? LOL! I think the disco fever and some of the other garden pictures are my favorite. But you will see the excerpt is incredible. All the professionals at Vogue Italia did an incredible job.

Simone: I know that last year’s Vogue Italia July issue sold out like 4 or 5 times. Do you expect the same this year?

Mario: I expect more.

Simone: I do too, because everybody loves Barbie.

Mario: Thank you so much.

Simone: Thank you.

Meet Robert Best, Principal Designer for Barbie Collector

2009-07-15T16:49:00.000-07:00

BARBIE Hosts Her 50th Birthday Party in Washington, DC

Barbie is 50 and fabulous! But don’t take our word for it. Ask Robert Best, instead. He is the Principal Designer for Barbie Collector. On Friday, June 10, 2009, Mr. Best agreed to speak with us at the Barbie doll’s 50th Anniversary Convention held at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC from July 7, 2009 to July 11, 2009. WDC, we’re in the pink!

Simone Butterfly: Hello.

Robert Best: Hi.

Simone: My name is Simone, your fabulous, freelance, fashion investigator.

Robert: Fabulous, I love your outfit. Barbie pink looks very good on you.

Simone: Thank you very much. It’s a pleasure to speak with you Mr. Best, Principal Designer for Barbie Collector. So how long have you been in that position?

Robert: I have been working at Mattel for 15 years now. Who knew?

Simone: So what does a Principal Designer for Barbie Collector do?

Robert: As Principle Designer for Barbie you are responsible for everything. It’s a very head to toe kind of job. I am responsible for the look, which includes the style of hair, make up and of course all of the accessories, the shoes, the jewelry, and everything the doll is going to be wearing. I also oversee the packaging. So I am really like an Art Director in a lot of ways because I have to handle the entire look.

Simone: That is amazing because Barbie has really changed over the years. Who is the 2009 Barbie?

Robert: The 2009 Barbie is a very active, healthy girl of today. I think she's very plugged in to everything that is going on, including trends and fashions that you see on the runway. Barbie is very relevant and is always current. Barbie is very much a reflection of the popular culture that surrounds her.

Simone: We love Barbie and we love her new blog, website and her Twitter updates. She’s fabulous! http://barbiestyle.barbie.com/

Robert: Barbie is absolutely plugged in.

Simone: Please describe the beautiful gown that you designed to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Barbie!

Robert: The gown is called Generations of Dreams and it was inspired by the doll of the same name. The gown features a collage of different images of Barbie throughout the years, from her very first 1959 swimsuit up to today. Everyone has a Barbie story and everyone remembers the doll of their generation. Hence the name: “Generation of Dreams.” The [Generations of Dreams] gown is a fun couture take on a wacky idea.

Simone: How long did it take to create?

Robert: The gown itself took…it feels like years. But it probably took a few weeks. We had a team in New York sewing and creating the first pattern. We had people in LA doing the beading. It was shipped to Australia. Then it was shipped back to the US. It will be traveling all over the country. The gown is better traveled than i am actually. Lol.

Simone: WOW! It’s been a pleasure. Thank you so much for speaking with us.

Robert: It’s been a pleasure.

A few fun facts about the Generations of Dream Gown on display at the Convention:
Eight experts from New York to Los Angeles used 15 yards of pink duchesse satin and silk organza to create the life-size gown. The bodice and skirt are adorned with 50 patchwork prints representing over 50 years of Barbie artwork. Each patch is outlined in countless iridescent sequins, shimmery Swarovski crystals and beautiful delicate trim!

JAMES TERRELL: Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist, Painter

2009-07-08T07:54:00.000-07:00

Article By: Sia Tiambi Barnes

Painter and musician, James Stephen Terrell realizes the power of self-expression. Perhaps it is because he has a Masters of Fine Arts degree from Parsons School of Design and a Masters of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary, both in New York City.

Perhaps it is because he grew up in a house with a baby grand piano and art created and collected by his father, fellow painter, Rev. Dr. James E. Terrell, and his mother, Judge Mary A. Terrell. Whatever the origin, he passes his inspiration on to the students at Spingarn, a public high school in Washington, D.C. where he was born and raised and now teaches art, and in his paintings which have been showcased in New York City and D.C. at such places as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library; Howard University Gallery of Fine Art (where he received his Bachelors of Fine Arts); and the Smithsonian Anacostia Museum.

As a singer and guitar player, he’s also performed throughout New York City and D.C. at such renowned clubs as CBGB’s and Bar Nun. His paintings and his music – a fusion of reggae, folk, blues, gospel, and rock – capture a “metropolitan concrete” life. “Art is historical, so it just documents a point in time,” James says. “Whatever you’re painting has reflection on you in general and what you’re thinking about, what’s really on your mind.”

James plans to release two albums of his thoughts this year, Color of Sound and Broken Hearted. For updates on his upcoming live shows and gallery showcases, visit James online at: Myspace.com/CrucifiedToTheCrossroads.

Full-Figured Fashion Week!

2009-07-07T16:55:00.000-07:00

"Manolo for the Big Girl blogger Rhiannon Gammill and other "curvy" bloggers recently expressed their happiness at being included at New York's Fashion Week at the Full- Figured Fashion event that took place June 25-27. “I want the woman who can say, ‘This is who I am, you don't have to like me and you don't have to approve of me, but I've been to this pony show before and this time I'm getting what I want. I've got one voice, two chins, and more style than should be allowed by law and I'm not apologizing for any of it’, says Gammill.

Many see this and other inclusions of full-figured women in fashion (such as the new plus-size garments available at stores like Forever 21 and rocker Beth Ditto's upcoming fashion line at Topshop's plus-size division, Evan) as a step in the right direction for helping to create and stimulate a better self-image of the curvier woman. "We all know, whether you like it or not, there are tons of fat women in America, and guess what? We need to get dressed too,” says Gabi Gregg, creator of the blog Young, Fat, and Fabulous. “We have buying power, we want to be able to shop with friends, try things on, and experience clothing the same way as everyone else. I hope that the new plus-size lines at places like Forever 21 and Topshop will do well enough to show other retailers that fat girls like fashion, too." (Source: The Daily Beast)

The Runway Era May Be Waning

2009-07-07T16:50:00.001-07:00

"According to the Wall Street Journal, designers in one of the cities at the forefront of fashion, Los Angeles, are losing confidence in the system of selling fashion from runways. While Milan, Paris, and Berlin's fashion weeks are backed by their government entities, L.A. must seek the support of corporations who have been backing out of financing this year's event (i.e. IMG, Mercedes-Benz, and Smashbox Studios). However, corporations aren't the only one's backing out. Last February, New York's Fashion Week saw less designers rip the runway as many of them pulled out and had independent fashion shows. With the emergence of the Internet as a marketing and branding tool, many designers and fashion companies are looking to it as a way to market directly to customers. “Everyone is trying to change the format of a girl walking down the runway, because that’s so passé,” says L.A. designer Juan Carlos Obando. Last fall, Viktor & Rolf featured a video on their site instead of being featured on the runway, and the trend is growing as a number of designers display alternative presentations that they replay on their Web sites."

New Designers at the GAP!

2009-07-07T16:47:00.000-07:00

"This fashion mashup brings Vogue wunderkinds Alexander Wang, Vena Cava and Albertus Swanepoel to the khaki fray. Continuing in the tradition of last year's design editions line (with white shirts), GAP again asked Vogue and CFDA noms to put their twist on the store's go-to khakis. Brooklyn babes Vena Cava added their sig patterns to two dresses, and sketched all over boyfriend and straight-legged khakis. These boho pieces add a little leggy surprise to your summer get-up. Alexander Wang brings his tough-chic aesthetic to a peacoat and motorcycle jacket, but for the sizzling summer sun you won't be able to pass on his precious pleated khaki shorts. And the icing on the cake? Swanepoel's flirty headwear, which brings a little style to the shade. With enough fresh mix-and-match pieces to get you from this season to next, trust us: it's worth the drive."

(1120 Connecticut Ave., NW; 1267 Wisconsin Ave., NW; or in G'town 1258 Wisconsin Ave., NW)

Michael Jackson: Fashion Phenom

2009-07-07T16:43:00.001-07:00

"From the wow to the weird, Michael Jackson leaves a fashion legacy to rival his musical one.

His black fedora, silver glove and red leather jacket were worn by millions around the world who channeled Jackson's spirit and sartorial flair. Later, he made fashion choices that weren't as popular, but were no less memorable: the pajama pants during his child-molestation trial, the black robes and veils while living in Bahrain, the germ masks that were a regular accessory.
All combined to cement Jackson's legacy as a pop and fashion icon.

‘There are a few people who are the innovators, who set the trends that other people follow,’ said Stephane Dunn, a frequent writer of popular culture who teaches English at Morehouse College. ‘Here was Michael, who understood the power of style and was able to translate it in a way that everybody wanted to copy it.’

His costumes weren't just for the stage. At a White House appearance, Jackson stood alongside first lady Nancy Reagan, looking the part of a glamorous general in a sequined military-style coat, aviator sunglasses and single, studded glove.

Jackson's ability as a performer electrified audiences, inspired amateurs of all ages and launched the careers of entertainers from Chris Brown to Chris Tucker, said Mark Anthony Neal, who teaches black popular culture at Duke University. ‘His success was a template for them,’ Neal said of performers like Brown, Ginuwine and Justin Timberlake." (Mercury News)

A Look Back at THIS DAY/ ARISE Magazine African Fashion Collective 2009

2009-06-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

On February 13, 2009, Arise Magazine, the first global style and culture magazine dedicated to African achievement, music, business and politics celebrated it’s launch at The Promenade, Bryant Park. The event featured the designs of an African fashion collective: Xuly Bet of Mali, Stoned Cherrie of South Africa, MOMO and Tiffany Amber of Nigeria and a surprising appearance by the incomparable GRACE JONES. Special congratulations to Style Maven, BETHANN HARDISON who was presented with the first Arise/ThisDay Icon of Style Award by Mr. Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman of THISDAY Newspapers. Everybody loves Bethann Hardison, our favorite tireless fashion activist who’s been hosting Town Hall meetings around the nation to discuss the shameless lack of diversity in the fashion world! Read our 2004 interview with her at www.simoneswashington.blogspot.com

Grace Jones 2.2009

Jimmy Choo @ H&M?!

2009-06-19T03:12:00.000-07:00

“JUST when you thought H&M couldn't possibility find a designer to top the Matthew Williamson collaboration, the brand announces its latest partner in design: Jimmy Choo.

"We are privileged to be among the fashion greats who have been affiliated with H&M so far, and to be designing a collection appealing to fashion savvy, street smart women, and to be including some great pieces for men, too," founder and president of Jimmy Choo, Tamara Mellon said today. "Jimmy Choo will bring to H&M a sophisticated, fashion forward, accessible and glamorous collection - the perfect party pieces to buy now and then wear out that night!"

Not content with creating covetable accessories, Jimmy Choo will also design a range of clothing for the high street giant, which, in a change to most collections, will be created to complement the accessories rather than the other way around.

"We adore Jimmy Choo's shoes and bags. They are glamorous and sexy, and they add instant style to the simplest of outfits," Margareta van den Bosch, creative advisor of H&M said. "I like the way we have worked with clothes to accessorize the shoes and bags rather than the other way around. This collaboration is particularly exciting because it's our first shoe designer collection. It's a joy to be able to offer top end designer shoes and bags of excellent quality to our customers. The collection, which will comprise shoes, bags and accessories for men and women, will arrive in selected H&M stores on November 14.” (Vogue.com 6/17)

Trendy Fashion For All!

2009-06-19T03:11:00.000-07:00

“This month, Arcadia plans to unveil a collection that Beth Ditto (of the punk band Gossip) designed for Evans, the company’s plus-size division. Available in the United States on the Web, it highlights cutting-edge looks like a corset dress and a cropped biker jacket.

The collection is the latest in an outpouring of fashions aimed at trend-driven, round-figured teenagers and young women, a population that has long echoed Ms. Ditto’s complaint that it is ignored by most merchants and brands.

“Up to now it’s been difficult to provide adequate fashion content to a large-sized customer,” said Jeff Van Sinderen, a retail analyst at B. Riley, a research and investment firm. The woman of size, as she is euphemistically known, “still wants to wear the same clothes as her slimmer counterparts,” he added.

Other stores and designers have picked up the message. Forever 21, a purveyor of cheap chic, introduced its plus-size line, Faith 21, this spring. Target recently began offering Pure Energy, exuberantly patterned dresses and tops for young women. Those follow hip niche labels like Karen Kane and Kiyonna, which are sold at boutiques.

All the lines see potential profit in offering stylish alternatives to the ubiquitous track suit. From a business perspective, that makes sense: the customer base is increasing, as health authorities have long pointed out. Some 17 percent of teenagers are overweight, according to the surgeon general’s office, more than three times the rate of a generation ago.

The market for youth-oriented plus sizes (usually 14 to 24) showed strong growth a couple of years ago, several years after the fast-fashion chain H&M entered the business. (H&M has since dropped its plus-size line, for reasons it would not disclose.)

Last year, sales of plus sizes to girls and young women ages 13 to 34 reached $5.8 billion, according to the NPD Group, a market research firm.

With consumer spending falling everywhere, that momentum has been lost: Sales declined 15.3 percent for plus-size shoppers 13 to 17 and 10.1 percent for those 18 to 34 in April and May, compared with the period a year ago, NPD says.

Plus-size lines aimed at older women have also suffered; chains including Ann Taylor and Old Navy have removed larger sizes from stores (they still sell them online).

Despite the slump, some see the market inevitably returning to strength. “The fact that more businesses are getting into this market is a clear indication that the recent lack of growth has been more about the economy than about a lack of interest,” said Marshal Cohen, an NPD analyst.” (New York Times 6/18)

6.15.09 First Lady Michelle Obama Accepts CDFA Fashion Award

2009-06-19T03:00:00.000-07:00

“The fashion industry made it clear at its annual awards ceremony Monday night that it's looking to future stars to see it past the doldrums of the recession, shunning longtime favorites and honoring a largely new guard: Rodarte, Proenza Schouler, Alexander Wang — and Michelle Obama.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America's special tribute award went to the first lady, considered a new player in this world.

Noting her "meteoric rise as a fashion icon," CFDA president Diane von Furstenberg said Obama had "a unique look that balances the duality of her lives" in her roles as trusted adviser to her husband, President Barack Obama, and busy mother to their two daughters.
Obama accepted her award via a pre-taped video speech. Wearing a crisp white button-down shirt and two strands of pearls, she honored fashion as an American "art form" with "ingenuity and craftsmanship that contribute so much to our economy and culture."” (New York Times)

BARBIE: A Retrospective by The Big Money

2009-06-11T10:16:00.001-07:00

Capital Catwalk Salon BARBIE SHOW featuring BYRON LARS 6.5.09

2009-06-10T18:40:00.000-07:00

Who Wants A Fashion Copyright Law Anyway?

2009-06-10T16:58:00.001-07:00

"For many, many years, we've pointed out how the fashion industry is an example of a highly creative industry that has thrived without the use of copyright. The industry itself is massively successful, incredibly innovative, and involves plenty of competition. This should be seen as a good thing. Yet, some big name designers, who were annoyed that they had to keep competing by releasing new designs all the time have been lobbying Congress to pass a new law that would institute a special copyright for fashion design. This makes little sense. The entire purpose of copyright is to encourage innovation. Yet, if the industry is thriving, competitive and innovative, why would you ever want to introduce new copyright?

Yet, as expected, there has been a big push to get the law passed this year. People have been submitting stories on a near weekly basis about how one or another celebrity designer trekked up to Capitol Hill to push starstruck Congress Critters to support the bill.

It's reached the point that many expect the bill to finally pass this year, but suddenly many in the industry are realizing what a disaster this would be. Boing Boing points us to a plea from industry insiders who are realizing how such a law would destroy the industry and force many small businesses and designers to shut down. Yet, when they talked to their Congressional reps, they were told that Congress hadn't heard anyone complain about this yet, so now they're trying to get out the word.”

(Techdirt 6/8)

Sao Paulo State Prosecuters fine designers $125,000 for not using Black Models!

2009-06-10T16:51:00.000-07:00

“SAO PAULO – Organizers of Sao Paulo Fashion Week have promised to take steps to try to make sure that at least 10 percent of the models walking the runways will be blacks or Indians. State prosecutors say they struck a deal with the event's organizers calling for proof that they will attempt to convince designers taking part to promote racial inclusion. Noncompliance by organizers could result in a fine of as much as 250,000 reals ($125,000) in a nation where nearly 50 percent of the population is black and there is a large Indian minority.

Prosecutor Deborah Kelly Affonso said the deal announced Thursday with Luminosidade Marketing & Producoes followed a state investigation. It stemmed from complaints the event recently had fewer black models.” Tech Dirt 6/8/09

2009-05-26T21:22:00.001-07:00

ATL Plans Fashion Retail Corridor

Construction is to resume in July on Streets of Buckhead, a $1.5 billion luxury development in Atlanta’s toniest neighborhood. Developer Ben Carter, who halted the project in March, said 20 retailers, including Oscar de la Renta, Van Cleef & Arpels, Brioni and Etro have signed leases. Streets of Buckhead, planned for a seven-block area, is to feature 600,000 square feet of retail space, along with 350 rental apartments. Carter said he’s using the lull in construction to renegotiate building costs, with the savings making up “for the downtime in construction.” From WWD Issue 05/22/2009

African American Women SHOP A LOT, Duh!

Last week, Essence held its annual Smart Beauty panel at the Mandarin Oriental in NYC. Panelists included Sam Fine and Mikki Taylor. The event found that

African-American women spend $7.5 billion annually on beauty products, but shell out 80 percent more money on cosmetics and twice as much on skin care products than the general market, according to the research.

WHY? African-American women sample many more products to find the ones that are most effective on their skin. She'd rather purchase aspirational products like Chanel and Versace over brands rep'd by celebrities. "She spends a lot, but there's little satisfaction. What keeps us buying is the hope that this product will do what it's supposed to do," says Fine

Fashion Gaming with Pat McGrath

“Coming Soon: The Fashion Week Video Game” – “A Fashion Week video game is coming out next year. Created by 505 Games, IMG, and world-renowned makeup artist Pat McGrath, the game will offer players a "true insider's point of view" of Fashion Week. It will include ‘world-class industry gurus,’ models, and celebrities, and will be available for the iPhone and for Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony consoles. Women ranging in age from pre-teen to mid-thirties are the target audience.” (New York Magazine’s The Cut)

Louis Vuitton Learns to Twitter

“Louis Vuitton gets twittering” - “With this new presence on Twitter, we hope to provide not only additional customer service to our clientele, but also a unique look at all aspects of Louis Vuitton”. - according to Daniel Lalonde, president and chief executive officer of Louis Vuitton US:

May Fashion Outings

2009-05-21T05:44:00.000-07:00

May 19 - September 29

Tired of paying retail? Join the rest of us at The Thread of Life Fashion Design and Entrepreneur ship Classes & Career Development sponsored by SINGA, 608 Rhode Island Ave., NE Washington, DC, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM. (202) 526-6940 or jrhsinga@yahoo.com.

Wednesday, May 20

Models, Bottles and Bikini's at Cab ana's in Georgetown, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM Dennis Ro Che of Ro Che Salon’s hair model showcase of the hottest swimsuits for summer served with complimentary margaritas and appetizers.

Wednesday, May 20

Moonlighting in MD - Celebrate the Grand Opening of South Moon Under’s new location at National Harbor in conjunction with DC Magazine. 100 American Way National Harbor, MD, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM A 20% discount is offered with a purchase and the chance to enter to win a gift package.

Friday, May 22

Runway Action DC Black Pride Presents Super Fly Fashion Show, Renaissance M Street Hotel - New Hampshire Ballroom, 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM Tickets are $35.

Saturday, May 23

Pay Your Respect and Bid adieu to WDC's Calico Corners, 4400 Jennifer St. NW Closing after 10 years. All in-stock fabrics are 50 percent off; trims and drapery hardware are discounted 75 percent.

Thursday, May 28

Bubbles & Brows Beauty and Shopping Event, Topaz Hotel 1733 N St. NW, 6:30PM - 9:30 www.uptowngirlent.com.

Merci, QYANA AGINA, Blogging Maven for Simone's Butterfly!

NYC Launches Fashion Retail Plan

2009-05-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

Today Mayor Bloomberg unveiled a retail action plan called FASHION'S NIGHT OUT to jumpstart retail sales in NYC this fall. The initiative involves a day of special personal appearances and other incentives to get people out shopping. Fashion's Night Out kicks off on September 10, the first day of fashion week! How do we convince Mayor Fenty that fashion = economic development? Hmmmm. We've got a few ideas.....

NYC : MEET BYRON LARS, MODEL CALL @ THE MET, BARBIE ON THE CATWALK, VALENTINO's OPULENCE

2009-05-17T07:24:00.000-07:00

SIMONE BUTTERFLY TAKES ON NEW YORK!

In preparation of the 5th Annual Capital Catwalk Salon Event scheduled for June 5, 2009, we packed up our cotton candy pink suitcase and hopped the BOLT BUS for what turned out to be the most stylicious action packed FashionWeekend we've had in months.

Friday 5/15/09:

We met prominent NY designer, Byron Lars whose fashion career spans over 20 years.

On Friday, June 5, 2009 (7pm to 9pm) we will present Lars with the 2009 International Style Maven Award at the Ca pital Catwalk Salon Event - (Tickets are on sale right now, darling!)

Fun Facts about my new friend BYRON LARS:
Fashion Designer. Freelance Sketcher and Pattern Maker

1991 Showed first collection
1993 En Vogue fashion collection designer
1990-1998 Ran Byron Lars Shirt Tales
1997 Designed fashions for BARBIE
2000 Launched Green-T label
2001 Launched Beauty Mark label, 2001

Byron is not only a genius, but he is a genuine, affable and generous. An Oakland, CA native, he currently lives in NYC. His apparel is featured at DC boutique Everard's Clothing located at

West End Store: 1120 20th Street NW / Washington, DC 20036
Georgetown Store: 1802 Wisconsin Ave, NW /Washington, DC 20007

Saturday, 5/16/09
We called our favorite NY gypsy silver town car driver Sam and....

9:30 am Simone Visits the MET: Model as Muse Exhibit

Surrounded by stunning photography by Irving Penn and Richard Avedon, we glided through the 5 rooms lined with vintage VOGUE, ELLE, HARPER's BAZAAR magazines and mannequins dolled up in vintage Dior and Charles James, etc.

The exhibit traced the history of fashion models from the European days of Haute Couture and Praline, a house model selected not for her photographic looks but her exquisite poise and carriage to the New Look models who expressed movement despite the boned bodices and crinolined skirts of the day by bending from the hip, making swan like jesters with their necks and arms rather than posing with stiffened waists through the status conscious lady like looks of the 1950's and the overt ssensuality and highly individualized looks of the 1960's. Covering the Body Politic of the 1980's when apparel which long loss her rigid underpinnings now highlighted a youthful body; the grunge of the 1990's and Gautier's modern day fantasy fairy tale opulence, the presentation was lush, extravagant and informative. BRAVO!

Highlights for us include:

Marisa Berenson (Mariessa's name sake) who appeared on the scene in 1966

Donyale Luna (first black model to appear on the cover of British Vogue in 1964) featured wearing an aluminum dress from Qui estes-vous Polly Maggoo, a short moving picture that represents the first time I've ever seen Donyale outside of a magazine. Priceless.

Beverly Johnson first black model to appear on the cover of American Vogue (1974) who was discovered while attending law classes. Inspirational.

Reference to the epochal Battle of Versailles where the top American designers presented in Paris against the French designers. America WON. See our interview of Bethann Hardision a Battle of Versailles model (www.simoneswashington.blogspot.com) for more information on this fab event.

11:00 Simone Gets BARBIElicious at Dylan's Candy Bar

What's a birthday party without presents?
We decided to visit Dylan's Candy Bar to sample the newest BARBIE confection created especially by Dylan to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Barbie. Want to taste test for yourself? Attend the Capital Catwalk as a VIP guest and satisfy your sweet tooth...fashionably.

1:15 pm Simone Is Mesmorized by Flick: Valentino: The Last Emperor

We lucked up and found a theater in NYC still playing the documentary on Valentino. Sitting in the middle chair of the 20th row, we along with 3 other couples spent 1 hour and 50 minutes being drizzled with a steady stream of Valentino Red opulence. Darling it was really quite exquisite.

Favorite quote: "I love beauty, it's not my fault." -Valentino

Alexander McQueen storms TARGET!

2009-03-08T18:27:00.000-07:00

We lucked up and attended the Alexander McQueen Sample Sale in NYC during Fashion Week. We grabbed a ton of fabulous punk rock frocks, jackets and pants. Visit the fab Columbia Heights Target to get your own.

OBAMA Nail Art: Wearing Your Heart on Your Nails

2008-11-04T06:08:00.001-08:00

With only a few days to the most highly anticipated election since well….the last election, we opted to celebrate the imminent arrival of a new administration by shopping for the most innovative and fashionable campaign paraphernalia. Surprise, Surprise- the award goes to Natasha Ray , SE nail maven and East Coast Minx Nails representative. Natasha.Ray@msDainty.com (202-538-0142)

Never heard of Minx Nails? Darling, it’s a clever new nail coating that has no drying time, no chemicals, and comes in hundreds of different designs from French to our favorite, “OBAMA.” Whether you get your nails done today or next week be sure to represent your candidate in style AND PLEASE VOTE!

Pssst...Diversity Comes to VOGUE

2008-06-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

i started making collages like this 5 yrs ago-hot girls collected over a span of 7 mos

Claiming Beauty…the Power in that and the dissemination of it to the young women who follow us, is as serious….as boys pointing cannons at oil wells. –Audre Lourde

There is great power in fashion, beauty and style. Power to elevate the mind. Power to conjure a mood. Power to inspire young women to walk outside the lines commanding attention with each step.

Fashion magazines are conduits for this power. Each image, interview and advertisement communicates a standard for beauty and style…for some. For others, magazines and runway presentations have loss a bit of their relevance.

After attending a forum on the dearth of black runway and print models sponsored by Bethann Hardison, famed fashion photographer, Steven Meisel, decided to take a bold step and reverse the tables. In the spring of 2008, Meisel teamed up with Italian Vogue editor Franca Sozzani, to create an historic July 2008 issue with 100 pages of pictures, interviews and stories featuring iconic models of color, including, fashion veterans Tyra Banks, Iman, Veronica Webb, Naomi Campbell, Pat Cleveland and new comers Arlenis Sosa, Chanel Iman and Jourdan Dunn.

With diversity finally invading Carrie Bradshaw’s New York and even threatening to penetrate the White House, it is time to expand the very narrow beauty standards currently espoused. How, darling? Well for starters, let’s make the July issue of Italian Vogue the best selling one ever. I for one will be buying each of the four covers twice. ☺

Interview with Mariessa for CLUTCH magazine

2008-06-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Excerpt from a June 1, 2008 Interview for CLUTCH MAGAZINE

by By Nikki J. Duckworth

http://clutchmagonline.com/fashion/mariessa-terrell-simones-butterfly/

The exclusive design vs. the knockoff is an issue that’s as old as fashion history, but with high profile companies like Diane Von Furstenberg bringing their fight against copycats to the forefront in the form of lawsuits, trademark infringement has once again become a hot button issue. And while budget conscious fashion lovers may be crossing their fingers in anticipation for the next Louboutin knock off, designers both established and emerging are trying to figure out ways to protect their creative vision. Enter fashion lawyers like Mariessa Terrell. Terrell is the founder and CEO of Simone’s Butterfly a company that works with clients on everything from brand management and promotion to contract negotiation. We caught up with the style maven to talk fashion law and find out about more about her work on the D.C. style scene.

Clutch: Many emerging designers are focused on their art and may be unfamiliar with the business side of the industry or the importance of branding. How important is it for a designer to establish a unique image?

Mariessa: I believe that in today's saturated fashion marketplace it is crucial for designers to develop a unique and arresting business image through branding. Many times, unique brands, logos, and slogans are the easiest way to distinguish one fabulous black dress from another.

CLUTCH: The subject of copyright infringement seems to be coming up more often as we're reading about very high profile companies being involved in litigation. Some retailers have basically knocked off a garment before the runway show is even over! How does the law make the distinction between "inspiration" and "stealing"?

Mariessa: Current law does not provide much protection for fashion designs. If the Design Piracy Prohibition Act becomes law it will create a special, limited three-year copyright in fashion designs, with penalties of $250,000 or $5 per copy for violations. In May 2007 the Bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet, and Intellectual Property.

The best way to protect clothing is to obtain a trademark and build brand recognition. Designers gain notice for creating consistently marvelous clothing under one label. Diane von Furstenberg is a great example. She perfected the wrap dress not by preventing others from copying it, but by marketing her wrap dress under her brand name. Her advertising campaign has been so effective that wrap dresses bearing her logo are seen as superior to those dresses marketed under a different name.

Protecting and registering a trademark and creating clothing under this label are the best way to protect fashion designs.

CLUTCH: Besides your work in fashion law, you're also a journalist and a photographer. Have you always had a passion for fashion?

Mariessa: There is great power in fashion. My mom was and is a fierce style maven who paid attention to fashion trends even if she did not always follow them. Mom believed that your style of dressing (up or down) had the power to not only alter your mood but could drastically affect those around you. She taught me the importance of creating a personal style that could elevate a mundane occurrence into a signature event. Since then, I have always had a zeal for fashion. I recall many dreamy afternoons at Martin Luther King Public Library pouring over the biographies of style icons like Eartha Kitt, Diana Ross and Audrey Hepburn. They, like my mom, had monumental individual style. I learned from the best.

CLUTCH: How did you get involved in a career as a fashion lawyer?

Mariessa: During my second semester of my third year at Howard School of Law, I took an elective class on trademark and copyright that forever changed my mind about the law. Here was a discipline that combined creativity with sound legal reasoning. I was hooked. Thankfully, after graduation, I was hired as a Trademark Attorney at the US Patent and Trademark Office, the only place in the nation to obtain a federal registered trademark. I was assigned to Law Office 106 where I prosecuted trademarks for the top cosmetic and fashion companies in the world. After a few years at the USPTO, I was ready to start my own trademark law firm specializing in fashion.

CLUTCH: How would you describe your personal style? Who are a few of your favorite designers?

Mariessa: Funny Face meets Mahogany. I love to glam it up with looks inspired by my favorite cinema characters…Laura Hunt in Laura; Tracey Chambers in Mahogany; Pola Debevoise in How to Marry a Millionaire. Most of my shopping dollars go towards the purchase of vintage Chanel, Christian Dior and Herve Leroux with a sprinkle of Dolce and Gabanna for a bit of modern appeal.

CLUTCH: When people think of D.C. style the words conservative or buttoned up may come to mind, but we know that you're working to change all that! Tell us a little about your work with to establish DC as a major fashion capitol.

Mariessa: I grew up in Washington, DC and watched the recent construction boom with much enthusiasm. I decided to get involved with politics to help ensure that some of the new retail space was marketed to unique independent boutiques. In 2007, I drafted legislation to create a Commission on Fashion Arts and Events tasked with developing a fashion incubator for emerging designers, fashion career technical programs for DC youth and a fashion retail corridor to recapture the millions of dollars lost when DC citizens shop in neighboring Maryland and Virginia malls.

CLUTCH: Do you have any words of wisdom for anyone who may be thinking about pursuing a career in fashion law?

Mariessa: My advice to any aspiring fashion lawyer would be to strive for top grades in law school…any law school. The fashion industry is very competitive. The largest and most coveted fashion law firms and corporations want the top students. If you are one of them, you increase your chances of success exponentially.

Creative Economies at the Dekka Boutique Opening (1338 U Street, NW)

2008-04-05T20:29:00.000-07:00

It’s April 5, 2008 and our words of advice to the fashion minded are, “ Don’t let DC meter maids force you to shop outside of your hometown!” Instead, recapture those dollar bills and save them for DC’s new miniature mall featuring 10 upstart designers, make up mavens, musicians and painters. Three cheers for Joshua Tiktin and wife Luciana for coming up with a novel idea to keep fashion alive and well within the city limits!

A Fete through the Renoir

2008-04-05T20:26:00.000-07:00

One must never let go before having managed to set down one's first impressions. –Pierre Bonnard

Beverly Perry, Senior Vice President for Government Affairs and Public Policy for Pepco Holdings, Inc. with a friend.

Playing Alice in Wonderland for an evening was a lark after stepping into the former home of Duncan Phillips (aka Phillip Collection) for the museum’s annual fundraiser inspired by the seminal Luncheon of the Boating Party by Renoir. After a decadent dinner featuring lobster salad, filet mignon and close proximity to breathtaking original masterpieces by Degas, Bonnard, Diebenkorn and others, guests strolled over to the tres elegant Anderson House located at 21st and Massachusetts Ave, NW for an extended evening of dancing and divine desserts. (Doesn't Beverly Perry of Pepco look fabulous?)

The Anderson House boasts breathtaking art, dizzying ceiling heights and sumptuous furnishings. In addition to serving as destination for DC’s most exclusive receptions, the Anderson House is one of the few palatial residences of the 20th century and served as the winter home of Ambassador Larz Anderson, III (US Ambassador to Belgium and Japan) and his wife, Isabel. Isabel Anderson gave the home to the Society of Cincinnati (http://www.hereditary.us/cin_anderson.htm) when her husband died. In 1837.

Darling, you can find fashion in the most unusual places. Did you know that up until 1812 US diplomats like Larz Anderson designed their own uniforms? Mine would be nipped to form a wasp waist a la Christian Dior with butterflies embroidered on both lapels! Yummy.

Required Reading at Christian Dior

2008-04-05T20:25:00.000-07:00

The Marvelous Wall Hanging in the Christian Dior boutique in Chevy Chase.

Fashion is an act of faith. –Christian Dior

Chatting with French Attorney Marie-France Pochna, author of Christian Dior the Biography at The Collection in Chevy Chase rekindled my belief that beauty is truly egalitarian and exists all around us, even in daily life. During the April 1st book reading and fashion presentation, Ms. Pochna illuminated the life and times of Christian Dior whose beginnings seemed to have little to do with fashion but who later made “luxury and dreams fit perfectly.” A man of extraordinary good taste, Christian Dior lives, according to John Galliano as “an eternal symbol of beauty, grace and joi de vivre.” Magnifique!

Jair Lynch Speaks Fashionably about Urban Planning

2008-04-05T20:24:00.000-07:00

Architecture is Fashion…its all about proportions. –Coco Chanel

March 26, 2008 the National Building Museum featured Jair Lynch and his grand plans to provide a marvelous edifice on U Street, NW that can serve as places to live and work. The new Soleo community will provide Washington, DC’s creative economy with much needed and much more affordable housing options. Lynch, urban planner extraordinaire gets what others in DC government don’t - without a creative class, we will lose the one thing that makes us different from our neighboring suburbs…variety.

History Lesson at the Hillwood Estate

2008-04-05T20:22:00.000-07:00

Still wondering where Fabulous lives? In Washington, DC she lives on Linnean Avenue at the Hillwood castle, the former residence of Marjorie Merriweather Post. On March 19, 2008 forty ladies and one gent gathered together for a mid- afternoon lecture on the French House of Callot Soeurs presented by Assistant Museum Curator, Howard Kurtz. The presentation was one of a series of fashion discussions on Mrs. Merriweather Post’s favorite fashion designers. After the lecture and slide presentation, guests toured Mrs. Post’s closets and viewed the exquisite Callot Soeur garments up close.

Marjorie Merriweather Post ( 1887-1973) was a “fourteen karat symbol of social supremacy“ who “was so extraordinary beautiful and had such lavish jewels and clothes and lived in such a grand style that people were awed and frightened.” Mrs. Post was well known for dressing in a dizzying array of lavish outfits. According to Kurtz, she would change her apparel at least four times a day. Her closets held hundreds of dresses from the best fashion houses of the day, all expertly tailored and coordinated with matching hats, shoes, gloves and furs. In the Post household, everything had a place and there was a place for everything: a closet for hats, a closet for shoes and even a closet for furniture which she changed often.

In 1971, at the age of 81, Mrs. Post was still considered to be one of the best and most expensively dressed women in the world!

Darling, what did I tell you? We’ve been fashionable for years!

CREAMY March-April DC Fashion Events

2008-03-17T11:11:00.001-07:00

Hey Guys and Dolls:

Before I forget, here are a few CREAMY fashion happenings in and around DC.

March 17 TONIGHT: Mayor Fenty's Art Awards at the Kennedy Center- 6:00 pm. IT IS FREE but when you see him be sure to thank him for signing the Fashion Bill!
March 15-18: Meet The The Sartorialist at the Adamson Gallery and preview his most celebrated photographs capturing street style from all around the world. The Blogger himself will attend the Wednesday night reception! (1515 14th Street, NW) 202-232-0707
April 14: 1st Annual WHS Fashion For Paws @ the Embassy for France. Fashion for Paws will feature forty of Washington, DC ’s most celebrated personalities as the models, with decked out designer dogs in-hand. http://www.washhumane.org/Phone: 202-723-5730, ext. 250
April 23: Style Image Network Beauty Night Out sample sale @ The Carnegie Library from 5:00 pm until 10:00 pm

Enjoy!

WDC: A Fashionable Recovery

2008-03-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

The Washington that I grew up with was a bit schizophrenic. With multiple personalities, it was quite understandable, really. Consider that in the 1980's and 1990's WDC was simultaneously the capital city, chocolate city and murder capital of the free world. She had her own Embassy Row, Georgetown, Gold Coast and Crack Epidemic. But, under Mayor William's leadership, WDC decided to freshen up, literally. The resulting construction boom left many of us terrified that she might never recover after going under the knife. But she emerged fabulous and no worse for the wear...

So what's next for our super heroine? Today, we have a unique opportunity to actually re-invent our beloved DC. We are limited only by our creativity. So why are we building one rectangular eye sore (Newseum) after another? Why are we recruiting giant retail chains to fill our newly constructed retail space? Why do we insist on looking outside of the Beltway for solutions to local issues when locals have great ideas, too?

It is time for the WDC creative class to engage. We can prevent WDC from reverting back to her old ways and days of limited options.

The recent transformation of 14th Street between Irving and Park Row was a victory for the status quo. How do we convince DC's Retail Strategists that we want more than a Target, Bed Bath and Beyond, Lane Bryant and Marshall's in every new development? (We're not the only ones baffled by the retail selections in the new Columbia Heights Target development...check out The Politics Hour with Kodjo and Johnetta on March 7, 2008.)We are not the only DC residents complaining that the stores do not match the income levels and panache of its surrounding neighbors.

Never one for complacency, we have been waving the pink banner for over five years. Unable to find support from within any existing government agency, we petitioned the City Council to create a Fashion Commission in WDC.

The Fashion Commission will be tasked with 1) developing a luxury retail corridor (gasp) within the city limits; 2) creating fashion related career technical programs for school aged children; 3) developing a fashion incubator; and 4) promoting the city as a fashion destination.

Today...after a year of stiletto clacking and tapping up and down the halls of the Wilson building; meeting with DC City Council Members, local retailers, developers, educators; writing articles, proposals, grants and even drafting the legislation...the Bill (17-173) to establish a Fashion Commission was introduced in WDC in November 2007. In February 2008, the Mayor signed the Bill! FAB-U-LOUS!

A Fond Adieu to the Alex boutique @ 19th and I, NW

2008-03-04T19:02:00.000-08:00

The closing of Alex (boutique) today marks the end of an era. If you were lucky enough to snag a ticket to the District Sample sale tonight, you were rewarded with one last hurrah for a DC boutique that offered up a bit of whimsy with every purchase. Thanks, Liberty for adding a dash of Euro chic to my wardrobe. (Picture of Jackie, runway model and former Alex employee at 2006 Capital Catwalk wearing a yellow satin gown by DC's own April Reddick)

Ode to Alex:

When news spread that Alex would be under new ownership, couture aficionados throughout the area shed a collective tear. Would their beloved downtown boutique still present a reason to take a 2 hour lunch? Don and Liberty, proprietors since October 2004, put an end to the questions with their eclectic mix of vintage and modern fashion “forward and replayed.” Known for having the best sales in the area (sometimes as much as 75% off), Alex offers everything needed to be a stunner; unique shoes and boots, hand crafted jewelry, Latico wallets, French suits, and top designer brands including, Tracey Reese and Chanel. With Tower Records around the corner, you'll have at least an hour to make up your mind and load up the car. (An Excerpt by moi taken from Unique Places published December 2006 by Crown Guides)

Fashion Is as Fashion Does: Lou Stovall

2008-02-23T06:02:00.000-08:00

Fashion is not the overvaluing of the superfluous rather it is a pointed attempt to recognize the beauty that exists all around us. The fashion minded individual steadily seeks to interject beauty whenever and wherever possible. The result is a flourish in daily dialogue, an individual pink peony on the breakfast table, a jeweled butterfly at the shoulder, a whimsical Lou Stovall print above the bed. Visit Lou Stovall

"On the Greening of the Artist" an excerpt
by Lou Stovall

It is a magnificent power that we have
to find beauty and charm in things.
To make special of a room that could only be reached
from the back of the kitchen
or from the third floor back stairs.
That was my gift...
the ability to make something possible
is perhaps the greatest gift of all.

Mr. Lou Stovall, celebrated Artist and Print Maker will participate in a panel discussion with Paula Sanderlin Dorosti, Director Visual Arts - District of Columbia Public Schools and Paul Richard, Art Critic - The Washington Post.

February 23, 2008
3:00 pm until 5:00 pm
Second Baptist Church of Washington
816 Third Street, NW / Washington, DC 20001

Fashion Credibilty

2008-02-10T13:00:00.000-08:00

Who is Simone (aka Mariessa) anyway? Well Darling, quite simply, I am the self proclaimed DC Style Maven on a mission since 2003 to brand WDC as a world class fashion destination! I was born at the Columbia Hospital for Women in the 1970’s to two hard working DC public school teachers. My family of five stayed during the great PG County migration. Today, I am the Founding Partner of Simone’s Butterfly, a boutique trademark law firm specializing in protecting fashion goods and services for upstart designers and entrepreneurs. (simonesbutterfly.biz ) I have lived all over WDC from Hillcrest Heights to Capitol Hill; from Columbia Heights to Brookland. Presently, I live in Mt. Pleasant with my husband and my cat, Chaka Khan.

To say I love fashion does not really capture my zeal for the industry. I love what fashion represents. To me it is an ideal that allows you to be at your best and most creative. It is less about logo laden accessories and more about personal expression. Fashion is possible without any money and without any prospect money. In fact it is an attitude, a swagger that comes from within. “Tracy” (that effervescent fashion designer in Mahogany) displayed it as she stood in a Chicago welfare line. I believe that fashion is contagious. So, I entreat you to pass it on. Finally, DC has caught it. And I am pleased as punch!