The holidays are right around the corner, and the chilly season is here! Since I live in sunny Florida, and it’s rare temps go down below 40 degrees, nothing is better than traveling somewhere cold so I can bust out my fall/winter wardrobe. What better place than our nation’s capitol—Washington D.C.? I will admit I was a little inspired by the Real Housewives of D.C. (these girls are my guilty pleasure). The US capital city is SO vivacious and full of life.
DC gets nippy during the holiday season, ranging from the upper 60s to the low 30s. Make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly before your trip. Fall/Winter is all about layers. You still want to maintain a smart, chic look without looking frumpy, dumpy, and one turkey leg and mashed potato serving too many. To achieve the layered sweater look, I suggest pairing it with a thin leather belt (somewhere below the ribs and above the hips). *Note to girls with a bigger chest: belts are NOT to be used as a shelf for your tots nor should belts cut off circulation or air flow. Belts are an ideal accessory to add flare to an outfit, so tie a belt loosely and avoid constricting your waistline.
Although DC is not commonly thought of as a place of fashion but more of the awkward, color coordinated pantsuits (think Hilary Clinton), it is the heart of Virginia horse country. The fashion vibe is a little preppy, with a mix of designer sophistication, making it perfect for knee-high riding boots, cashmere sweaters, colorful scarves, and dark washed, skinny jeans. A staple item in your suitcase should be comfortable walking boots or flats because DC is a walking city. Frye boots are my go-to for affordable, fashionable, and (most importantly) long-lasting durability. Dark-washed, skinny jeans go with everything. They fit cozy under riding boots, look sophisticated with ballet flats or heels, and balance nicely with an over sized sweater.
Another must have is your winter coat, especially if your blood has thinned from living in mild climates or you are not used to gusting winds and low temperatures. So, you can pack lightly, bring your favorite coat, and mix it up day to day by adding a vibrant-colored scarf or a dramatic, funky brooch.
The holidays are my favorite time for old-Hollywood glam make-up. Your look will be set with a vivid, dark-colored lip stain. Who will be able to resist those bold lips under the mistletoe?
In between the Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian, and Ford’s Theatre, you are sure to be in need of some retail therapy. M Street in downtown DC is hands down the most fashionable and is a perfect destination for boutique shopping, great eats, exclusive spas, & pulsing nightlife. M Street offers the eager shopper many stores including Zara, Barney’s, Lush, Ralph Lauren, & JCrew (just to name a few).
“I Die” For:
•Brooches: They add flare and jazz up any outfit, especially if you ordinarily steer away from colors and are a monochrome type of gal. Think that brooches are a thing of the past? Think again! Brooches are making a serious comeback. Bonus: Sneak into grandma’s jewelry box for fun pieces with diamonds, pearls, and gems—every WW girl loves a vintage item.
•Beanue aka “Beanies”: Beanies have such a terrible rap because you either think the 1990’s stuffed animal “Beanie” Babies fad or that scruffy skater boy from 5th grade rocking his skullcap beanie rain or shine! But, seriously, I’m obsessed with Beanue’s because they are sweet and fashionable, not to mention they keep your ears toasty in the winter! Just channel Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl, and you are good to go!
•Over sized Bold-Print Sweaters: I love the look of these and they come in handy when looking for an alternative on days where I skipped my workout. I definitely wear one when I am not feeling up to a hip hugging cardigan. Pair it with slimming jeans/skinny's and a fun pair of shoes to complete an easy outfit day!
•Cover Girl® Lip Stain & Gloss: Not only are these items affordable, but you can get vava voom! lips in two easy applications. First apply OutLast Lipstain and then use the ShineBlast to make your pout pop! It not only keeps your smackers moisturized, but it doesn’t crackle or break apart like most lipstains.
Written by: Lauren Folland
