D.C. Pleats

Farewell for now, but life is not over

2008-01-26T14:45:00.000-05:00

I am hanging up my proverbial hat as the blogstress of D.C. Pleats for the time being as I don't want my job to be in jeopardy (long story). In the meantime, may I suggest you check out the LookGirl sites, focusing on everything a young gal needs in her life, from pop culture to fashion, cooking to fitness, culture to investing tips.

Clothing the Caucus 2008:A big spread for Obama

2008-01-03T22:05:00.000-05:00

"Road to the White House" Obama

Clothing the Caucus 2008:And the GOP nod goes to...

2008-01-03T20:37:00.000-05:00

Crook' toothed Huckabee

Clothing the Caucus 2008:It's time to vote

2008-01-03T20:33:00.000-05:00

It's on in Iowa!

– AP Photo

Clothing the Caucus 2008:Political paraphernalia

2008-01-03T17:19:00.000-05:00

What a wardrobe some of these volunteers and supports sport! Let's just try and forget about the contacts, and see some other fun duds! I'll have more later...

– AP

Clothing the Caucus 2008:Awe-some perspectives

2008-01-03T17:12:00.000-05:00

I just thought these couple photos were cool ...

P.S. Those I despise the pseudo-yuppie sweater-over-shoulders look, I do have to say I love the pop of green around Hillary's face, it suits her well.

– AP Photos

Clothing the Caucus 2008:Love on the campaign trail

2008-01-03T16:50:00.001-05:00

I know I just showed a picture of the Bidens, but I just love this photo and the intimacy and stresses of the job that it shows. It is a picture of them prior to a press conference and rally in Dubuque, Iowa.

(P.S. AP listed Biden's wife's name as Naomi, which is tragically wrong. It is Jill. Naomi was his daughter who was killed years ago in a Christmas-time car accident. Read an amazing story about it all here...)

– AP Photo/Mark Hirsch

Clothing the Caucus 2008:Stumping for the candidate

2008-01-03T15:38:00.000-05:00

I wrote this great thing, and then I accidentally deleted it, damn! Anyway, insert a joke here about how all the presidential candidates are bringing their entire families out to rally for them - wives, children, siblings, cousins, you name it - something about family values... Sen. Edwards is the only candidate who doing it alone (which is a little sad be D.C. Pleats loves her some Emma and Jack! - and we wish Elizabeth all the best). And then there's Chuck Norris...

Sen. Biden brought nearly his whole family to Iowa, including his sister, Valerie Biden Owens, left, his son, Hunter, his wife Jill (hot second wife No. 1) and his brother Jimmy.

Sen. Obama is joined by his lovely wife Michelle - who almost always looks stunning - at a stop yesterday in Des Moines.

Former Gov. Huckabee and his wife Janet, greet audience members at a early morning rally. (Though she often looks very doughty, I have to say I like the chunky necklace and the eggplant-colored coat.)

Former Sen. Fred Thompson walks with his wife, Jeri (hot second wife No. 2), and their daughter, Hayden, 4, during a campaign stop in West Des Moines.

Sen. Clinton's mother, Dorothy Rodham, and daughter, Chelsea, show support yesterday during a campaign stop in Indianola.

Meanwhile, Bill's in Dubuque...

Sen. McCain and with his wife, Cindy (hot second wife No. 3), in New Hampshire.

Sen. Dodd and his wife Jackie (also a second wife, questionably hot) after a campaign stop at Signatures Grill in Indianola.

And then there's Chuck Norris and his wife stumping for Huckabee.

– AP Photos

Clothing the Caucus 2008:Caffeine Double Take

2008-01-03T14:33:00.000-05:00

It's not from today, but New Year's Day, and it's just a great shot of Hillary double-fisting the caffeine while campaigning in Des Moines, Iowa.

– AP Photo/J. David Ake

Clothing the Caucus 2008

2008-01-03T14:25:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a great holiday vacation, but now it's Caucus Time! (I don't really think it's all THAT exciting, but nonetheless...)

I am going to try and post some fun pictures and commentary about the pols' Iowan wares as well as some simply amazing photos from the day's events. (Like this quite creepy one of volunteer Roberta Allen showing her patriotism.) So keep tuned through the afternoon and evening, if you can simply tear your eyes away from the 24-hour broadcast coverage.

– AP Photo/Jeff Chiu

Photos of the (two) week(s)

2007-12-21T15:07:00.000-05:00

I hadn't been on AP Photo in a long time, so I am glad I am back in the game since that's my favorite thing to do (sad I know...). So, while there were some interesting shots from fundraisers and debates, many were not quite worthy - or fashiony. Here are some of my favorites from the two weeks or so:

What a handsome duo: Tony Bennett and Bill Clinton at a Hillary fundraiser on Dec. 12. – AP Photo/Rich Schultz

Our Secretary pool: Just a funny picture of all the Cabinet members adjusting themselves before a press conference post-meeting Dec. 14. – AP Photo/Ron Edmonds

Just say no to drugs: Sens. Schumer and Grassley look downright studly at a news conference on Tuesday. – AP Photos/Susan Walsh

Beautiful inside and out: A wonderful shot of the Botanic Garden lit up for the holidays (it's right next to the Capitol...) - mosley.brian/flickr

What a happy family: Hillary, breaking bread Dec. 8 in Des Moines with her daughter Chelsea, mother Dorothy and then Andy McGuire. – AP Photo/Paul Sancya

Pointing the figurative finger: Nobel Peace Prize winner Al Gore addresses the U.N. Climate Change Conference Dec. 13 Bali. He said that the U.S. was "principally responsible for obstructing progress." – AP Photo/Dita Alangkara

Bush and Cheney chat Wednesday with firefighters in front of a on-fire (literally) White House. Do you think it's a coincidence that both the prez and veep match the D.C. firefighters' uniforms? My theory: As the fire alarms went off, their staffers threw them coordinating ties. – AP Photo/Charles Dharapak

It's a team effort, people!

2007-12-21T14:31:00.000-05:00

Congress couldn't get their act together to actually pass any big legislation (omnibus, what?) before convening for recess, and the Dems took the brunt of that for good reason - but the lefties did have their act together on something...

I can just picture Nancy calling up Hoyer, Reid and the boys on Tuesday, saying, "I think I am going to wear gray and burgundy today. Is that what you were thinking, too?"

And then the next next day, "Why not something a little brighter today? I'm going for cherry red and black. You too?"

– AP photos

Blog the Blogger

2007-12-20T10:29:00.001-05:00

The DC Goodwill Fashionista started her new feature today, Blog the Blogger, and who did the premiere blog feature? Moi - of course. Check it out to find out a bit of background about me, who my favorite designers are, and where to find good bargains in D.C - plus, the site is a great, witty and oft-spot on fashion resource.

A helping-hand shopping spree

2007-12-19T18:07:00.000-05:00

It's not really political, but it's for charity – and helping pick up where FEMA is lacking... – so, check out this over-the-top eBay auction for a shopping spree with Michael Kors to benefit the Spirit of Liberty Foundation and Americans Helping Californians.

Won't you cry for me Argentina?

2007-12-14T14:33:00.000-05:00

Oiy, what a mess has Argentina gotten itself into with this fashion disaster! The newly elected president - the wife of the outgoing president (sound a little too familiar) - always has her signature big hair and a canvas-worth of makeup, plus wears what seem more like costumes than suits. So, without further ado, here is Madame President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner:

Not too horrible, right? Just combining red and orange sheen, but that's not REALLY that bad since it fits her well. And the next one is very cute - for a Hollywood starlet on the red carpet...

It's like she's wearing white to a funeral, or something. To quote Michael Kors, "It's very Mother of the Bride."

And last but certainly not least, presidential pantylines...

I am sad to say it's all a little too much like Hillary (with a better figure, of course).

– AP Photos

More Givhan rants

2007-12-13T16:10:00.000-05:00

It's been a very long week of political fashion commentary given by Robin Givhan. Normally I would love all of this stuff - aka this blog - but admittedly I am getting a little sick of it. I wish the elections would just be over already. (Damn, I forgot we have another year to go...)

I already commented about Hil on Sunday, then we've got:
Romney on Monday
Edwards on Tuesday
Thompson on Wednesday
McCain on Thursday
And I think you're in luck for Baby Blue Guy on Friday...

Who's to blame for pantsuits?

2007-12-13T16:06:00.000-05:00

Robin Givhan's article this weekend about Hillary "the-human-color-wheel" Clinton and the pantsuits was unnecessary for the package and said absolutely nothing that Robin hasn't said at least twice before in her column, but nonetheless I read it and had a couple chuckles - mainly because Hillary's so manly. So here's some of the less boring of the boring droll:

The mind, so easily distracted by things mauve and lemon yellow, strays from more pressing concerns to ponder the sartorial: How many pantsuits does Hillary Clinton have in her closet? And does she ever wear them in the same combination more than once? (Here I have to say, "What?!?" Givhan's clearly never seen my blog and how Hillary wears the same thing 10 times in one week...)

[Pantsuits] can be flattering, although not when the jacket hem aligns with the widest part of the hips (hypothetically speaking, of course). Does she even have hips? (Oh Robin...)

Is even considering the senator's clothes a kind of chauvinistic assault? ... With the male candidates, the nuances of their attire matters ... but with Clinton, one must first get past distractions such as that pink blazer — the one John Edwards didn't like so much — before the details can be considered. What would possess a woman to wear a jacket the color of a geranium in full bloom and then imply she doesn't want anyone to notice or comment on her clothes?

Yes, a woman can still be taken seriously, viewed as tough and celebrated for her ideas even if she is wearing a sunshine yellow suit. But someone, somewhere, is also going to notice that she is dressed like a solar flare. (She said it, not me, but ditto!)

Oprah on the campaign trail

2007-12-13T16:04:00.000-05:00

Oprah hit the campaign trail with Sen. Obama and his wife, Michelle, this weekend - and I have to say she looked fantastic doing it. Her neutral palette wasn't boring, but it was slimming, and more importantly, conservative enough for Washington (and Iowans), but hip enough to maintain her Hollywood image. It was an image that was very much what the Obamas have been portraying themselves throughout the campaign - young, but respectable. I would hope that some of the women on the Hill have their eyes open and maybe take some pointers from the Oprah-Michelle fierce fashion duo.

All one color in different shades and textures makes for a put-together look that is both slimming and timeless.

It's just a simple, single-breasted pantsuit that fits properly, isn't flashy in color, isn't over-embellished with jewelry/scarves. It's just the antithesis of Hillary - and really what Hillary should be wearing. (They kind of have similar body shapes, right?)

This is so perfect for a daytime, outdoor event. I love that she belted the shirt - very trendy - but kept the palette simple so as to not make it look too young for her. And my favorite part? The yellow is perfect for her skin tone but not bright and flashy to distract from the important thing - the candidate. That's something Michelle is often very good at, too.

- AP Photos/Paul Sancya, Elise Amendola and Gerry Broome, respectively

Fashionably charitable

2007-12-13T16:02:00.000-05:00

The fabulous Goodwill Fashionista brought up a good point today on her blog: 'Tis the season for being charitable, so why not be fashionably charitable? There's some good hints and organizations listed, so check it out. I just moved and had to severely clean out my closet, so I made a few piles along the way - a Goodwill pile (of course!), a Dress for Success pile, items I could give to the local elementary school (I love crafts...) and stuff I could potentially sell on eBay or Craig's List. So get giving!

The right way to do winter outerwear (a few weeks too late)

2007-12-13T15:49:00.000-05:00

With the Washington weather so completely unpredictable - hello, I didn't wear a coat yesterday and it's snowing today - it can be somewhat understandable for the politicos not to don the appropriate outer coverings all the time. But, your average winter coat is timeless and classic, and if you don't have one at least hanging in your closet (like Greta, most likely), there is absolutely no excuse.

For the not-so-cold days, check out some of these options, but for the frigid days of late, it's not too late to get bundled up - and this is a perfect time to buy a wonderfully warm wool jacket as sales are in full force. So, without further ado, here are some of my choices for Capitol-appropriate winter attire, and these are more about the shape and style than the actual piece (especially since these are all way out of my price range):

Marc by Marc Jacobs Solid Wool Felt Coat ($548)
Unique color in a simple and basic shape - and the double button/military-style is so the rage right now. I just love how it's classic yet totally different from everyone else on the street.

Cinzia Rocca Long Wool Coat ($1,125)
Wonderfully classic in hunter green!

Burberry Exploded Glen Check Coat ($1,295)
The black/white/camel check is very fashionable this season, but more importantly, it is classic and can withstand the test of many seasons to come. The spread collar looks great popped and the black leather belt flatters any waist.

Andrew Marc Dream Herringbone Coat ($795)
Oh so Jackie O! The mock belt and double buttons are what make the jacket and then what makes it Capitol Hill is the color and length. It's just timeless.

Mackage High Collar Coat ($550)
The asymmetry is fantastic on this coat - which throws you for a loops in Midnight blue - plus I love the belt, the slight puff sleeve and the big collar.

Alice + Olivia Fox Collar Coat ($587)
Red is just the quintessential winter color. I love this shape, it's almost like a dress, and would flatter just about any shape.

Catherine Malandrino Jacquard Dots Cape ($795)
Taking the classic cape and making it the silhouette of the season! I've seen this style in many store and colors, and just love it. This particular choice has the double-breasted look I love and the texture is just to die for.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Textured Wool Twill Coat ($628)
A-line, slight flare, asymmetry, amazing neckline - what's there not to love.

P.S. There will be an interview with me commenting about my love of winter coats posted soon on DC Goodwill Fashionista's site. Check it out!

P.P.S. And don't forget to keep your hands nice and toasty. Here are some great suggestions from the epitome of what D.C. fashion should be.

Back up and running

2007-12-13T15:30:00.000-05:00

I saw Greta again the other day - this time walking out of Phillips (why?!?) with her bagged lunch - and she looked so horribly dowdy in her all-black neutral pallette and oversized trench reminiscent of Reagan's. Really, there is a good way to do winter outwear, and this is not it!

Anyway, it got me to thinking about the early days of this blog and how I loved doing it and about how I have totally slacked as of late. Well, I am not making any promises (I've done that in the past...), but I am going to try a bit harder to get back on my game. Plus, I need to get more people to the site so I can up my $3.49 of "shoe fund" earnings...

Here's to wishing everyone a belated Happy Hanukkah and an early Merry Christmas.

– Photo courtesy Mens Vogue

Colbert: 'Nothing completes a look like children's health-care legislation'

2007-11-06T13:41:00.000-05:00

In a odd change of events, Stephen Colbert was asked to introduce Speaker Nancy Pelosi last night at Glamour's Annual Women of the Year awards. And, though his writers are on strike, he was able to come up with a funny and fashionable speech (note the reference to the mandals!). It's worth a couple minutes of your day to actually read through it - it's freakin' hilarious:

... And speaking of mocking politicians, many have asked me why someone who has advised members of the House of Representatives not to go on my show, why I would honor Nancy Pelosi at the Glamour awards. Because she made history this year? Because she's three heartbeats away from the presidency? Because I suddenly like her?

No, I am here tonight because I love Glamour. I love its lifestyle. I love the magazine. I have my own personal do's and don'ts. Do work a retro up-do, with a little headband. Don't criticize the president. And I just love fashion. This season, I love high-waisted pants. I adore Oxford pumps—no, ankle booties! And if you have a sweater dress? Make it even better—belt it! If it wasn't so cold tonight I would have ditched my wing-tips and worn my platform mandals.

That's why I'm here tonight to introduce Nancy Pelosi, because she is the most glamorous speaker we've ever had. I cannot pinpoint exactly what makes her different than previous speakers. All those guys had style. Newt Gingrich worked the aisle in pinstripes and power ties. And long before Jennifer Aniston had the Rachel hairstyle, Speaker O'Neill had the Tip hairstyle. Four-inch eyebrows, matching earbrows. Speaker Dennis Hastert was a plus-size model for Lane Bryant.

But none of these men hold a candle to Speaker Pelosi. Whether she's prowling the Capitol steps in a cream pantsuit, or strutting the halls of Congress in a blue pantsuit, or grudgingly clapping behind the president at the State of the Union in, say, cream pants and a blue pantsuit blazer—she always has the right accessories. Because nothing completes a look like children's health-care legislation. And I think we all know that the fashion moment of the year has to be Nancy Pelosi marching the S-CHIP bill up to the White House in her Veto-Me pumps. She is the most fabulous Speaker ever to rock the gavel. And though I may disagree with everything she stands for, I will defend to the death her right to make-it-work [snaps]. So it is my honor to present to you the distinguished representative from California, Madam Speaker, Madam Glam, Nancy Pelosi!

To read the entire speech, click here... To read a little bio from Glamour about Pelosi, click here...

- Getty Images

If a famed celeb stylist says D.C. has style...

2007-11-05T17:02:00.000-05:00

Yet another reason to hate Anne Schroeder, she says D.C. has no style. Well, maybe she has no style. So take that Shenanigans!

[Fashion stylist Rachel] Zoe met her husband in D.C., too, she tells local pub Express. She was a hostess at Washington Harbour, he was a waiter. They used to hang out at Sequoia. And — now this is important — Zoe says, "I love D.C. It's got such style."

Whaaa? D.C. and style? Do we need a fashion double-take?

To read the horrible drab, click here...

Nina McLemore: Dressing the power elite (and the creator of Hillary's horrid jackets)

2007-11-05T11:59:00.000-05:00

An interesting article appeared in The Examiner today, shocking, I know. Part of their weekly Power Profile, Whitney Blake spoke with Nina McLemore, of her namesake line for the power elite as well as the founder of Liz Claiborne Accessories in the '80s. And while I am not personally a fan of the line (or many of the women who wear it, but that's a whole other aside), I find her takes on fashion, business and women in both very fascinating.

“I’m very angry at the fashion industry,” she said. The industry has “no respect for accomplished women,” viewing them as “sex objects, not smart and capable.”
Her line, mainly “jacket driven,” also includes pants and blouses for business, casual and evening attire. She targets businesswomen with high net worth, female politicians — most notably Sen. Hillary Clinton — and what McLemore calls “community women” who are involved in philanthropy or who have husbands in powerful positions. ... (Know we know where Hillary found her amazing taste - and her $795 quilted coats!)
... Clinton prefers longer jackets, and her signature colors include blue and coral, which McLemore said brings out the highlights in her hair. ...
McLemore’s clothes come in five fits to accommodate all body shapes, and she designs them herself with natural fabrics primarily made in America. She recommends bold, vibrant colors for women who often appear in public or on television. McLemore picks versatile styles that can be worn anywhere, and she uses wrinkle-free materials to allow for easy traveling. ...
... McLemore has a keen sense of her customers’ tastes. Women in law, government and business “dress more understatedly and conservatively” compared with women in New York. At the same time, Washington women have an international flair and often pick textiles and colors from, say, Southeast Asia and Kenya. ...

To read the entire article, which talks a lot more about the business side, click here...

– Examiner/Greg Whitesell

Quote of the day

2007-11-05T11:26:00.000-05:00

Speaker Nancy Pelosi was honored at the YouthAIDS gala Friday, with a toast by Bono (who was wearing what seemed to be men's heels), saying:

"You've given safe sex, sex appeal! How'd you do that?"

These Shoes Are Made for Stalking

2007-10-26T13:10:00.001-04:00

"Days spent chasing lawmakers on the Capitol’s marble floors can be a challenge," Jonathan E. Kaplan says in an article this month in Washingtonian. "The hard marble puts pressure on knees and backs and even makes for slips." Well, we knew all that, so the interesting part? His short piece takes a look at Congressional correspondents and their preferred footwear - and I have to say poo-poo to most of them!

I wear at least 3.5-inch heels on the Hill on most days, and do I complain? No! Why? Because they are feminine and dress- and location-appropriate, and I manage to find ones that are actually pretty comfortable.

Big props to "shoe addict" Susan Milligan of the Boston Globe (pictured above right), she "toughs it out wearing flashy stilettos. She admits they 'kill' her back, but they also get her noticed. One Massachusetts Democrat routinely comments on her shoes." Nice job and I love the flash of color - something way-too lacking under the Dome.

Some more tidbits - some of which frankly scare me:

“Rubber soles are a must,” says Anne Kornblut, who often tracks the movements of Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton (who wears low heels) for the Washington Post. Kornblut says she’s found a shoe-repair shop that will add rubber soles to her leather shoes. (This is key! I make sure to have no-slips and rubber soles on my shoes to avoid falling, and more importantly, to avoid making loads of noise with each step.) ...

... CNN congressional correspondent Jessica Yellin prefers clogs because they’re good for posture and are more attractive than many other ergonomically friendly shoes. (There's a photo with the story that I would be happy NEVER seeing again!)

Juliet Eilperin, a onetime congressional reporter for the Post who now writes about the environment, says former majority leader Dick Armey, a Texas Republican, taught her that cowboy boots are best for pounding the marble floors. (Do I even need to say anything here?)

To read the entire article, with a lot more about journos' secret lives, click here...

– Jay Clendenin/Washingtonian

Ideas, suggestions, critiques?

2007-10-19T16:19:00.000-04:00

Hi all! I am trying to start back up with my regular posting (I was on sabbatical b/c I was in the running for a new job in the political arena and didn't want to jinx it by possibly being linked to a political blog...), and I would love all your help with catching up. If you have any ideas or news tidbits, or any suggestions as to where you'd like to see this blog go, please either leave a comment or e-mail me at dcpleats@gmail.com.

Hill fashion roundup

2007-10-17T12:41:00.000-04:00

And The Hill now has a fashion column? I don't know... but, interesting info on some Reps.:

Ric Keller has lost 41 pounds by eating healthy (1,800 calories per day) and regularly exercising. He has 30 more to go, he says, but he's already looking more svelte. (See picture from September at left.)
Ellen Tauscher has gone noticeably darker — going from blonde to brunette. "I’ve always had a blonde personality with brunette responsibilities," she said.
Sadly, Rep. Howard Coble has been warding of skin cancer — he was diagnosed in the late 1990s — with a topical solution that burns the skin cells and turns the outer skin on his face a blistery red. Ouch!
And finally, it's a whopper, Dennis Kucinich reportedly bites his nails.

To read the entire report, click here...

– AP Photo/Susan Walsh

Joke of the day

2007-10-17T12:40:00.000-04:00

From Swizzle Sticks:

"According to FEC reports, Edwards grew out his hair during the 3rdQ."

Portraits of a politician

2007-09-17T14:53:00.000-04:00

Sen. Barack Obama hugs attendees of the Service Employees International Union's Member Political Action Conference held at the Washington Hilton.

– Roll Call/Tom Williams

It's a motion blur of supporters around former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards as he signs some autographs after speaking at a fundraiser in Milwaukee.

– AP Photo/Morry Gash

Gen. David Petraeus intensely testifies on the future course of the war in Iraq while appearing before a joint hearing of the House Armed Services Committee and House Foreign Relations Committee.

– AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais

Rep. John Murtha speaks at a press conference Monday at the National Press Club about Congressional action on the United States’ future in Iraq.

– Roll Call/Tom Williams

Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Chris Dodd speaks at the Service Employees International Union Political Action Conference in Washington. (And this is the only one I saw in which he wasn't yelling...)

- AP Photo/Gerald Herbert

Perfectly silhouetted? Rep. Ron Paul, a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination, speaks at Seattle University.

– Seattle Post-Intelligencer/Andy Rogers

Seen on the monitor of a video camera, Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney delivers a statement on Sen. Hillary Clinton's health care plan, outside of St. Vincent's Hospital in New York.

– AP Photo/Dima Gavrysh

Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton quite awkwardly flips steaks during Sen. Tom Harkin's annual fundraising steak fry in Indianola, Iowa.

– AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall

The Gores glamour?

2007-09-17T14:03:00.001-04:00

I had to get the Emmy's in somehow....

Former Veep (and now Emmy and Grammy winner) Al Gore arrived in typical, boring style to the Emmy's last night in Los Angeles. The tux is your average tux, so there's not much to say. He really isn't looking very good, though, beyond that. His face coloring is very blotchy, his slicked-back hair very old man, and I don't want to give him a hard time like everyone else in the world, but he sure has put on a lot of weight in recent years.

Tipper, however, should have known better than to wear brown while next to her black-and-white hubby. The jacket is OK, but rather dowdy and over-embellished, and not really venue-appropriate; it's the blah cami and mis-matched skirt that bother me a little bit more. She really should take a note from other fine ladies her age, though I know they all have different figures, like Sally or Glenn or Helen. Her hair and makeup are nice, though, and very age-appropriate, and her earrings match the outfit perfectly.

– AP Photo/Chris Carlson

What's the coif about?

2007-09-14T14:46:00.000-04:00

Yet again, I found the most amazing dribble in The Politico - I can't believe they actually publish this stuff in a "newspaper." It was a two-page spread about the presidential candidates' hair. Some highlights:

Whether a presidential candidate maintains his (or her) split ends surely will rate low on voters’ “presidential material” scale. But many politicians have learned that an impeccable hairstyle — even at $400 — can be a political asset.

... Romney’s not above jabbing his opponents. “You know, I think John Edwards was right. There are two Americas. There’s the America where people pay $400 for a haircut and then there is everybody else,” said Romney, who pays $50 for his own.

... “Your hair will send very important messages to those around you,” [Clinton] told Yale University’s graduating class in 2001. “It will tell people who you are and what you stand for.”

... According to Susan Abrams, a professional political image consultant based north of Los Angeles, a bad hairdo can distract voters from a candidate’s message. Take Edwards’ costly trim. “No one talks about what he’s saying,” she said, “because everyone talks about the hair.”

To read the entire thing, click here... Though if you want a chart about why each style does or does not work, click here...

– Composite image by Politico.com

Another Bush administration loss

2007-09-12T14:38:00.000-04:00

Goodbye yellow-wrist road,
through the good times and the bad ...

Outgoing White House Press Secretary Tony Snow completed his final briefing and decides to have a chat with Bush rival and veteran reporter Helen Thomas. Not much to say about our departing friend (who claims he can't afford the job), except that I hope some time off air will help you recoup and stop wearing so much pinstripe, it just makes you look even taller than you already are and on nonHDTVs it's like a blurry snowfall.

– AP Photo/Charles Dharapak

It's a slow week

2007-09-12T13:45:00.000-04:00

It's been hard to find stuff when the only thing going on is Gen. Patraeus' speech in which everyone knew what he was going to say before he said it, the House was out for the funeral and now everyone's out for the rest of the week because of Rosh Hashanah.

So here's random talk about my favorite fashion disaster, Hillary. I love the photo at right because it looks like Hill's trying sooo hard to stay awake while listening to Amb. Crocker and Petraeus on Tuesday. The glasses give her the I'm-really-trying-to-take-this-seriously look while amplifying the fact that her eyes can barely stay open. I've never seen her done this pair, but I do have to say I like them. Of all the things she wears, especially her oft-tacky accessories, I think these do a good job of staying somewhat-trendy and young, but not in a offensive you're-too-old way.

I also like the pink jacket for the same reason. The pink is a good pop of color for her that isn't too strong, isn't the coral family we've seen way too much of, and doesn't wash her out too much.

– AP Photos/Kevin Wolf and Gerald Herbert, respectively

Have a great weekend!

2007-09-07T17:46:00.000-04:00

I figured I'd leave you with a great photo to laugh at for the weekend. I really don't mean to put Hillary up here so much, she just provides so much great fodder. Just keep in mind, this is in no way, shape or form an endorsement of any kind.

I have to say this isn't the worst outfit I've ever seen on her. She's owning the monotone outfits, thinking they make her appear slimmer (I'd argue that, but to each their own). The wool is at least a summer color and seems to be lightweight. What I don't understand, and her being at an AARP convention doesn't save her on this one, is what's up with the floppy handkerchief she's sporting. She's done this a few times now, and it totally looks like her left boob is exploding. Oh well - you can't teach an old dog new tricks.

– AP Photo/Steven Senne

**** UPDATE: She wore that outfit again on Sunday. She always does this, and knows she's in the spotlight being photographed at each event. I just don't understand. It's not like she doesn't have enough money for a full wardrobe - I learned today in Roll Call that she's worth at least $12 million.

The nuts are made for crackin'

2007-09-07T11:19:00.001-04:00

Thanks to the shoe-fund ad on the left side of my page, I found this amazingly hilarious campaign 2008 paraphernalia: The Hillary Nutcracker! You have to check it out, it is so funny and oh so true...

I think I am going to make this an ongoing feature, so if you see any other great political parodies, please let me know and we can get them up here to ogle and boggle (?)

Unexpected celebrity, but she's wearing it right

2007-09-06T10:05:00.000-04:00

Megan Colon probably never expected to have her picture in newspapers across the country today, but the staffer who stood by her boss looked great while doing it. Looking poised in casual professional ware, Sen. Tim Johnson's intern coordinator cheered him on in his first appearance back to the Senate since suffering a brain aneurysm in December.

Colon wore a very simple and understated outfit, with cool and neutral colors mixing in a perfect fit. The skirt was basic, but an added slit gave it a little flair, and though I am not so sure the popped collar was necessary, it didn't look as wrong as most popped collars. Besides her neatly polished (and posh) bob, what I appreciate most is she found a pair of wedges that I don't absolutely hate. As Johanna would say, I don't particularly like shoes that "make a woman's foot look indelicate," and I believe that is something so many wedges do. These, however, are slim and narrow, have a just-perfect-hint-of-shine patent, a slightly provocative peep toe, and a not really offensive contrasting tone for the wedge itself.

Overall, the look is what a staffer should aim for. Now an actual Member is something completely different ...

– Bill Clark/Roll Call and John Shinkle/Politico, respectively

This is no scandal to write about

2007-09-05T19:40:00.000-04:00

And the worst Hill article of the day: It starts out kind of about what's appropriate to wear to court and digresses somehow into how scorned wives of wondering politicians should present themselves.

“In these sex scandals the scorned woman is often the most scrutinized. Women can’t win; wear something modest, people will say, ‘Well, no wonder he went looking.’ Wear something that celebrates your femininity, and you’re desperate trash. Wear something appropriate? Well, that would render you invisible, perhaps the worst option of all.”

Though some would argue that this article is the same as this blog, I would say the venue of a blog is very different from a newspaper. Even so, I still wouldn't deem important what Sen. Craig wore to a press conference unless it was something outwardly offensive. Fashion Critic - and this instance in particular - is so often a wishy-washy column that doesn't say anything.

To read it all, though I don't know why, click here...

– The Idaho Statesman/Joe Jaszewski

Speaking of brassy

2007-09-05T18:21:00.000-04:00

This was a very busy weekend for Hillary's newest accessory to hit the campaign trail: a raffia visor.

Many of the maybe-early primary states got to see this tennis-on-top, beach-on-the-bottom accoutrement as the junior Senator went from state fair to state house and back again. I'm not sure what designer made this (I say designer because it has a little silver leaf-shaped emblem on the rim), but Hill, honey, it isn't suit-worthy. If it's that hot and sunny that you need to shade your eyes, go for khakis and a nice button down or something and skip the full-on blazer. But that's just my opinion.

– AP Photos/Charlie Neibergall and Jim Cole, respectively

A blond, not brassy Hillary could grab the nod

2007-09-05T17:32:00.000-04:00

As much as I detest myself for actually reading The Hill, it becomes even worse when I find multiple items to quote them on. Well, today their usually pointless (and, well, let's face it today's is too) 20 questions piece features S. Monae Everett, a stylist and manager at Bubbles Salon on Capitol Hill. Not that I would consider Bubbles a trend-setting cuttery, but unfortunately a lot of the male Members actually do get their hair cut there (even though they have their own in-house barber).

So, without further ado, here are the top trends in D.C. hair:

"Blond highlights. A lot of blond highlights." Really? For the summer blond is in?
"The bob is very popular and the side-swept bangs." Really? Like Posh Spice and Katie and my favorite local blogger?
"Men used to think of products as just for women — now they’re using them." Really? Like the metrosexual of 2004 is finally making his way to the Hill?

She also comments on some of the presidential candidates coifs, saying that Edwards' $400 haircut was worth it if it made him feel good and Hillary should go blonder, though she doesn't know if the country can handle it. She also states that Rep. Louise Slaughter has the best hair in Congress, saying she "keeps it nicely curled. I love the color, the height. You can tell she didn’t roll right out of bed." Well, that we can agree on.

To read all the questions, click here...

– AP Photo/Jim Cole

Breaking news: Stress makes you all wrinkled

2007-09-05T15:48:00.000-04:00

I'm sorry I left you with such a crappy last blog for so long; and I am sorry that I have to keep saying I'm sorry all the time. I can't make any promises though - work is, well, stressful.

Well, in my trying-to-destress I came across an article in The Hill today trying to tell me if I tell myself, “I am strong,” “I am in balance,” I will be strong and in balance. Anyway, there is a funny quote up top from Kathleen Hall, creator of The Stress Institute in Atlanta, who seems to have no connection to Washington at all...

“I would think [lawmakers] care about the way they look. Their skin gets wrinkled, [and stress] makes you age fast. It changes your metabolism [and] makes you store fat around your vital organs.”

Sounds great! To read some affirmation-centric tips on how to destress, click here...

So he's got a Jag...well, now he's got a Jag that supports Obama

2007-08-29T14:42:00.000-04:00

We learned this morning that Karl Rove's Jaguar - while parked on West Executive Ave. near the White House during his trip to New Orleans - was pranked by some fun-loving colleagues who covered it with plastic wrap, toy bald eagles and put an "I (heart) OBAMA" bumper sticker on the windshield. According to Politico, the coworkers say they did it because "they will miss his puckish humor in meetings."

For a silly little video, click here...

– Politico

'The brightest most fluorescent color possible'

2007-08-28T10:49:00.000-04:00

Carole Bayer Sager over at Huffington Post had a funny little piece about Hillary at the recent debates. She's spot on - unfortunately because in the spotlight what we usually see is a very scary sight - but what really are the options for men? Here are some excerpts:

Have you noticed that after each Democratic debate, Hillary's numbers rise in the national polls?

The reason is simple.

She enters center stage, in the brightest most fluorescent color possible on the color wheel. She is aglow in bright coral, bright orange, bright yellow; while surrounded left and right by a chorus of dull looking men in seemingly identical dark suits all appearing indistinguishable from one another. What an entrance. ...

She also answers in a softer tone; her manner is less aggressive, more appealing. But she's winning over some of her critics primarily because the male frontrunners simply just don't shine. ... Thanks to the televised debates, the American people got to see Hillary Clinton on stage, her blonde hair shiny, eye makeup, rouge and lipstick in place, standing next to a chorus of men in black -- glistening.

It may be serious business, but it's still show business.

To read the entire article, click here...

– AP Photo/Cheryl Senter

Update

2007-08-28T10:25:00.001-04:00

Sorry I've been a little aloof. Work's actually been busier than expected for recess - silly ol' Sen. Craig getting himself into all sorts of mischief. Anyway, I'll try to be better (though I know I promise that all too often...)

By the way, did you hear that Jenna was actually proposed to at Acadia National Park in Maine - that's where I was that day! How come I didn't hear about it until a couple days later? There was no secret service men lurking around that I saw. I guess my high-alert blogging senses were lax because of vacation.

By the way, channeling the Che Guevara t-shirt look, you too can have Barack Obama on your chest. Launching several new wares on his campaign site Monday, for just a few dollars you can don the 100 percent cotton duds.

Wasn't Obama on the cover of this one just a couple months ago?

2007-08-23T09:59:00.000-04:00

Thanks for the tip. Another great pol making the cover of the magstands - I guess we're moving even further into the year of political celebrity. At least this one doesn't look too Photoshopped.

As FishbowlDC asks: Who will win this month's magazine candidate-off?

2007-08-20T16:47:00.000-04:00

Any thoughts on which cover is better? (Though we all know they both seem a tad ridiculous...)

– Photo courtesy of FishbowlDC reader

On the Campaign Trail: Best Photos of the Week

2007-08-20T15:22:00.000-04:00

Fred Thompson holds a baby pig at the Iowa State Fair.

- AP Photo/M. Spencer Green

Barack Obama and his daughter Sasha ride bumper cars at the Iowa State Fair.

- AP Photo/M. Spencer Green

Grace Dodd, daughter of Chris Dodd, covers his mouth as they walk off stage after the Democratic presidential debate Sunday.

- AP Photo/M. Spencer Green

Could that kid be any more scared as Dennis Kucinich and his wife, Elizabeth, take pictures with supporters outside of the Red Arrow Diner in Manchester, N.H.

- AP Photo/Cheryl Senter

John McCain greets veterans after speaking at the Veterans of Foreign Wars national convention in Kansas City, Mo.

- AP Photo/Charlie Riedel

Rudy Giuliani shows off his stuffed monkey during a campaign stop at Dodge's general Store in New Boston, N.H.

- AP Photo/Jim Cole

Barack Obama stands with his daughters Sasha, left, and Malia, right, before speaking to potential supporters.

- AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall

John Edwards waves to supporters as his campaign bus leaves his Iowa campaign headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa.

- AP Photo/Kevin Sanders

And saving the best for last (NOTE: Not a political statement), Giuliani gets a touch of make-up as he prepares for an interview on "The O'Reilly Factor."

- AP Photos/Bebeto Matthews

Tired debate attire

2007-08-20T15:16:00.000-04:00

Moderator: So, Sen. Edwards, what do you think about Hillary's outfit for this debate?

Edwards: Well, let me start out by saying that I just think Bill is great. He did wonderful things for this country. But could that jacket get any longer? Or mousier? And what is that thing over there? It looks like it's throwing up ribbon. But, yes, I think the Clinton presidency was a good one.

– AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall

When too much may really be too much

2007-08-20T15:07:00.001-04:00

Now here's a true supporter. (Now, just get her some support - you know what I mean...)

– AP Photo/M. Spencer Green

Hot doggy!

2007-08-20T14:58:00.000-04:00

I'm back and had a wonderful mini-recess. (Looks like Penn. Gov. Ed Rendell did too.)

We'll be back in full swing in the next couple days.

– AP Photo/Patriot-News,
Sean Simmers

The blissful engagement

2007-08-17T09:11:00.000-04:00

I figured I'd interupt my vacation a bit to actually find out what's going on in the world, and I find out Jenna Bush (clearly the more stylish twin) and Henry Hager got engaged!

Some info on the couple (according to AP):

Henry Hager proposed marriage to Jenna on Wednesday in Maine. She said yes.
Back in February 2005, Laura Bush was asked about the guy her daughter Jenna was seeing. "This is not a serious boyfriend - I hate to have to be the one to say it on television," said the first lady. "But he's a very nice young man."
Following tradition, Henry first asked the president for permission to marry his daughter.
Laura and George were engaged just six weeks before they tied the knot in 1977.
Henry, a student at the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business, has a sterling Republican pedigree. His dad, John, is a former lieutenant governor of Virginia and now heads the state's Republican Party.
They met while working on the president's 2004 reelection campaign and have been dating ever since. They have been spotted together everywhere in the past two years, most publicly at the White House dinner for Britain's Prince Charles and Camilla in November 2005. Soon after, Jenna was telling friends he was The One.
The courtship was serious enough that in May 2006, Jenna apparently thought he was ready to tie the knot. The two were dining at Asia Nora when waiters brought champagne to the table - with a mysterious note taped to her glass. Jenna read it and burst out laughing. "I thought you were proposing!" she hollered loud enough for everyone to hear. "I nearly (soiled) my pants!"

2007-08-10T21:41:00.000-04:00

I, too, am going on my own little recess for the next week, so you most likely wont see any new posts (though I will have my laptop, but I'm trying to actually take a vacation). So, instead of being cruel and everytime you check this site seeing Chertoff's mug, I thought I'd leave you with an image of picturesque Washington in the haze of a heat wave. Have a good week and try to stay cool!

– AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite

Bunnies and parakeets, oh my

2007-08-10T12:53:00.000-04:00

Michael Chertoff wore a bunny (and gopher?) necktie, similar to John Kerry's parakeets and palms tie, at a news conference at Washington's Reagan National Airport yesterday and it just rubs me the wrong way. The likely Vineyard Vines choice seems completely inappropriate to wear to work at a secretary-level, especially when talking about flight-safety procedures at a press conference you called. The yellow is a good color for him, though, as it balances out his skin tone and (maybe?) softens his facial structure.

– AP Photo/Dennis Cook

Prince of Darkness keeps his cool

2007-08-10T12:29:00.000-04:00

The Yeas & Neas boys, who are going on their own little recess for a couple weeks, got a fun dressing tidbit out of author/journo Bob Novak:

"It’s mind over matter,” Bob Novak said when the journalist was asked how he can bear to wear those three-piece suits in the middle of summer. ... [He] blamed it on the demands of his TV appearances.

“It looked better on television to see a vest than a big old belly,” he said. “The camera people told me those seersuckers weren’t good for TV” because of all the lines.

He also said there’s a certain type of respect that results from wearing a dark, three-piece suit on a 100-degree day, especially when you’re not breaking a sweat. People look at you and say, “That guy knows something.” ...

To read the entire item (basically what I have), click here...

You can see the sorrow, right!

2007-08-10T11:43:00.001-04:00

Dianne Feinstein's outfit is so much the better option in a time of mourning than Laura's completely ill-conceived outfit she wore to the bridge-collapse site.

The California Senator and former San Francisco mayor, speaking yesterday at a memorial service for former San Francisco 49ers coach Bill Walsh, looks perfect for the situation at hand. It fits, it's classy but not overstated, it's black, and did I mention, it fits. And this neckline is what all the Congresswomen should be looking to wear - low enough so you can see the collar bone and it doesn't look like your shift is choking you, but high enough not to bring about any speculation of cleavage.

– AP Photo/David Gonzales

Best-dressed whoha (or however you spell it)

2007-08-09T13:46:00.000-04:00

OK, so we all know Barak Obama's been making every best-dressed list, and I don't always agress with those lists, but I do have to say, I LOVE this tie. It is young and playful, but totally professional, and he always chooses his signature color: baby blue. (Which is really the best hue to suit him, as well.)

And as a side note, just exemplifying how this tie stands above and beyond all the other candidates' attire at the AFL-CIO forum this week, here is Chris Dodd's atrocity.

– AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast

What's the opposite of plunging?

2007-08-09T13:33:00.000-04:00

Could Hillary possibly overcompensate any more than she did with this outfit at the AFL-CIO forum? This neckline is practically choking the Democratic presidential hopeful. Go back to the V-neck, Hill, we weren't the ones who complained about the not-really-there cleavage, we actually kind of liked it.

– AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast

Obama, Sarkozy top Esquire’s best dressed list

2007-08-09T12:29:00.000-04:00

Who says all politicians (and the journos that love them) dress poorly and frumpy?

Esquire’s September issue, on newsstands next week, features 25 “best dressed nominees,” and there are some names you wonkish types might recognize.

Sen. Barack Obama leads the field at No. 4, followed by French President Nicolas Sarkozy (No. 6) ((though I'd have to say he has hands-down the best-dressed family)), Afghan President Hamid Karzai (No. 10), NBC’s David Gregory (No. 13) and Rep. Rahm Emanuel (No. 21).

Or, at least, so says the Yeas & Nays' guys.

– Photos compiled from AP

District Sample Sale news

2007-08-07T11:02:00.000-04:00

I wasn't going to mention the District Sample Sale for a couple weeks because, well, tickets don't even go on sale for a couple weeks and there is always so much hype around it anyway... Well, organizers announced they have signed up Thievery Corporation’s Eric Hilton to DJ for the VIP hour. I thought that was pretty interesting.

Also on the menu for the biannual madness this September is DJ Frederico Aubele, food from Nage and Renaissance M Street, a fashion bloggers corner and cocktails created by Liquid Muse.

More to come, probably closer to when tickets actually go on sale Aug. 23.

Meet Speaker and House

2007-08-03T17:25:00.000-04:00

Yowza, we can see here that the Speaker has some tots on her. And not in a good way. This single, off-center button hits her in a very bad place, making her jacket pull and accentuating the ladies. Not a good look, Nancy. Bring back the Armani that we oh-so cherish.

– AP Photo/Ron Edmonds

You can see the sorrow, right?

2007-08-03T16:50:00.000-04:00

How did Laura Bush express her sadness and deepest sorrow to the victims of the Minneapolis bridge collapse? By wearing the most inappropriate, ill-fitting lavender pantsuit - with shades - I've ever seen.

Let's address the issues here:

The color to express sorrow would be black - or even navy, or brown, or tan, or, well, just about anything other than lilac. It's too pastel, and screams spring, for a situation of this magnitude.
She has several tailors at her beck-and-call - including Oscar himself - so why would she even own something that fit her this poorly? She looks like a little school child pulling on her long sleeves.
Even Jackie O., famous for wearing her sunglasses, knew better than to wear them when in mourning. Do you see anybody else in any of these photos (and countless hours of live news feed) wearing them? No. Why? Because they're not right for the situation at hand. Yet again.
And this is something that's been bugging me for a month or so now: What's up with that lipstick? She's been wearing this harsh shade that is all too offensive for her lighter-than-now milky white complexion, and I just don't understand why. She has small lips to begin with, so this dark hue just makes them look smaller. And it always looks like it was half-heartedly put on, with smears and uneven application. There's just no symmetry here.

– Photos collage created with images from AP Photo/Gerald Herbert
P.S. I love doing collages!

And a third time ...

2007-08-03T16:18:00.000-04:00

I think she's doing this on purpose...

– AP Photo/Jeff Gentner

Quotable

2007-08-03T16:04:00.000-04:00

"I always thought those were Jimmy Carter colors."

– Robert Novak, upon being presented with a Heritage Foundation necktie (lime green, kinda reminiscent of Carter's '76 posters, with a blue Liberty Bell motif), after the columnist's lunchtime speech yesterday at the conservative think tank to promote his new book, "The Prince of Darkness: 50 Years Reporting in Washington."

Help support your local economy

2007-08-03T14:58:00.000-04:00

There's a lot going on around town this weekend - and it all involves shopping!

The Mid-City Sale (aka the Dog Days Sale) is Saturday and Sunday, and involves all of my favorite 14th St. and U St. shops bringing their goods outside and having great big sales (check out Pop!, and you have no excuse since you don't have to climb the stairs). And, this is perfectly timed to my favorite holiday: the D.C. Sales Tax Holiday.

Shop tax-free in D.C. this weekend through Aug. 12 and in Va. this weekend only. Stock up on shoes, clothes, accessories - but they have to be less than $100 a piece, so shop wisely. But please, please, for your own sanity, make sure to avoid malls with American Eagle, Hollister, Abercrombie and the such if you don't want to fight packs of wolves...

For more second-source info, check out what Project Beltway has to say about the events ...

And save some mulah for next weekend (Sat. 1-5; still part of the Sales Tax Holiday) when Matt & Nat designer Inder Bedi will be at CUSP Georgetown to show off his line of animal-friendly and fashion-forward handbags. There will be food, gifts and, as always at CUSP, lots of fun.

Great column, check it out

2007-07-31T17:51:00.000-04:00

I just want to point everyone's attention to a masterfully written column by Post ombudsman Deborah Howell on the Hillary cleavage conundrum. And here is an excerpt that I reiterate all the time about this very site.

There's a bigger issue about her Clinton piece: Does this have anything to do with whether Clinton should be president? Not a thing. But do we want to read the column about her cleavage? Yes indeed. It was the most viewed story on the Web site all day. So was a recent story on John Edwards's hairdresser.

This is how women should dress on the Hill

2007-07-30T18:38:00.000-04:00

Rachel over at Project Beltway snapped this shot of Linda Daschle (Tom's lobbyist wife) and Abigail Blunt (Roy's lobbyist wife) at a Hill newspaper party last week and I think it is just a fantastic example of how politicos can do to a feminine and chic suit. They're both sexy and you don't even see any cleavage - Hillary, again, take note. The hues are perfect for summer and can clearly take you from day to evening with no problem.

– Rachel Cothran at Project Beltway

Project Beltway weighs in on the flats vs. heel dilema

2007-07-30T15:23:00.000-04:00

Because there is no real politics going on in Washington right now (sense the sarcasim?), a political newspaper decided to write about a pressing issue: High heels on the Hill. (OK, I know it's the pot calling the kettle, but I'm at least up front about the fact that this is primarily a fashion site...) At least they quoted blogger Rachel Cothran from Project Beltway. So, here is an excerpt from the earth-shattering, breaking-news report:

For the woman who works on Capitol Hill, high heels can present a fashion dilemma. Does she slip on a pair and risk the discomfort keeping up with her tall boss while walking down those marble hallways? Or does she sacrifice style and scrap the pumps? ...

... “I’m a heels gal, even though it’s risky when your boss is a fast-walking Marine,” said Jessica Smith, deputy spokeswoman for Sen. Jim Webb (D-Va.). ...

... Rachel Cothran, creator of Project Beltway, a D.C. fashion blog, has mixed feelings. “I love and hate heels all at once,” she said. “While they do make your legs look longer and inject a tried-and-true dose of femininity to your boring Hill outfit, they can literally be a pain.

“There’s nothing worse than limping through the Hart [Senate Office Building] hallways with five Band-Aids flapping around your ankles. And I will never understand why those cobblestone walkways were installed outside of Union Station, of all places. That being said, I know plenty of women who say they simply don’t feel pretty or in charge in flats.” ...

To read the entire piece, click here...

Well, Rachel continued her thoughts on her blog:

I’ve found a happy medium to be a wedge shoe, which provides height without sacrificing comfort. I find curvy, more feminine styles as opposed to chunky ones most flattering—there’s already a lot of shoe going on. You wouldn’t want to look like you have a brick attached to your foot.

For a while there, I swore off heels completely. However, once I realized that height wasn’t really the problem but rather the construction of the heel, I was a believer once again. Well-made shoes can really be an epiphany for heels, and well-made does not necessarily have to mean expensive. I love stacked heels and conical shapes have a retro vibe. They’re all over the retail stores, but you could easily look in vintage and consignment shops. Skinny heels often look too dainty for everyday outfits, and if you’re like me, you wear out the heel tips in less than five wearings. ...

... Hillrats needn’t be afraid of color or of showing toes, says an anonymous PB spy, who saw Rep. Michelle Bachmann (R-Minn.) wearing “the cutest open-toe green heels the other day…lime and kelly-green, maybe two-inch heels.” They should just steer clear of what the anonymous Hillgoer called stripper heels: “never okay.”

Then she goes on to give some examples of Hill-appropriate shoes - most of which I dislike, and some of which I feel aren't Hill worthy - but it's a good go. But her list of shoes made me want to do my own list. I am not including any flats, because I don't think they're appropriate (even though I wear them all the time), nor anything with too high of a heel because I'm trying to be realistic here. And for some real-life inspiration, keep an eye out for Condi and usually Laura's peds. So here are my picks for walking the marble come this fall, and "they're the coolest kicks in the cave," as Kelso would say.

Classic in-between flat pump
AK Anne Klein Sportella ($79)
A comfortable 2-inch heel
* I just bought these and they're great

Suede round-toe with a slight metallic edge
Taryn Rose Suede Pumps ($495)
A sleek 2 1/2-chunky heel

A suede wedge with a perforated twist
Dolce Vita Ferrera 2 ($105)
A 2-inch plastic heel
* Also available in cranberry, but most pols can't get away with that

Penny loafers for the 21st century
J. Crew Katy tumbled-leather heels ($178)
A sturdy 2 3/4-stacked heel

Sassy sweetheart detailing on simple pump
BP. 'Lavender' Suede Pump ($59.95)
A lofty 3 1/2-inch sturdy heel
* Also available in patent and my favorite-for-fall color, gray

Suede and patent come together
Kenneth Cole New York True Love ($195)
A not-as-steep-as-it-looks 3 1/2-inch heel

Logo medallion vamped
Tory Burch Betty Suede Pump ($295)
A platform sole, so the heel isn't all that high...

A matte satin mishap waiting in muggy D.C.
Bettye Muller Norell ($400)
A modest 3 1/2-inch heel

I plan on doing some sort of suit-fashion piece soon - with lots of examples for the female fashionistas working those Capitol steps - defintely before the end of recess, so Hillary, keep on the look out.

Clinton's jacket a subject for debate

2007-07-30T00:49:00.000-04:00

After Edwards' comment at the debates last week a whole can of worms was opened and there were a lot of google searches that popped up my site. Needless to say, Julie Hinds at the Detroit Free Press found my rants on Hillary's seemingly limited wardrobe from last month and quoted the site - she probably would have quoted me if I didn't get back to her four days too late... Who did get quoted, however? None other than my favorite reporter and my not-so-favorite non-newspaper (I wont mention names, but it's obvious if you read the article and live in D.C.).

On another note, before I let you read the story, I'd like to point out that in this photo, not only is Edwards' wearing one of those bracelets, but also his jacket is pulling oddly and his arms aren't even outstretched - what's going on?

Anyway, here is bits from the piece:

... Some pundits gave Edwards a dressing down for the crack. "Write this down, guys: Attack her policies, attack her past votes, attack her personality ... but don't attack what she's wearing. It looks sexist and cheap," opined Politico.com's Roger Simon.

"I hope his wife gave him a good smack upside the head afterward," wrote Lisa Takeuchi Cullen on her Time blog. ...

... Clinton appears to own blue and yellow quilted jackets that seem nearly identical to the coral one, according to photos posted on D.C. Pleats.

"Does she own anything non-textured?" asks a headline on the politics/fashion blog. Postings describe the jackets as scary and horrid.

"I thought the jacket looked fabulous," says Helena Andrews, who covers pop culture for Politico.com and called Edwards' joke lame in a column. "She looked very sleek."

So did some of the men onstage, but their clothing wasn't a debate topic. ...

To read the whole story, click here...

– AP Photo/Charles Dharapak

Rethinking the bracelet: Pin, set, match

2007-07-29T16:02:00.001-04:00

While watching Fox News Sunday this morning with my boyfriend, he pointed out the fact that Fred Barnes was wearing a teal plastic bracelet (probably for prostate cancer, though a google search didn't show any correlation), and I thought about my posting again. So I don't really have any problem with the idea of the bracelets, I mean they're ugly, but that's not really my issue here. It's about wearing them with business suits - it just doesn't really work. I think the much more appropriate item to wear would be a lapel pin, or even a tie tack, or even both! in the shape of the cancer ribbon. Everyone's been wearing the American flag pin to show their patriotism, but you can even combine the two (see pin at left). This is a much more classy option for political figures who want to express their cause.

– AP

Hillary's such a repeat offender

2007-07-29T15:14:00.000-04:00

So at least she ditched the coral jacket for a day, but why would Hill wear the ruffles again? I'd much rather see a little V-neck cleavage action with a simple jacket for the Senator at the Friday National Urban League conference. She dresses so much more Buffalo than New York.

– AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

The debate, a week too late

2007-07-29T13:58:00.000-04:00

I don't want to keep apologizing in every entry for my slacking blogging. I promise come August you will have me wholeheartedly and I will comment to all of your hearts' desires on our Congressional power players' recess attire - which I am sure will be atrocious since it'll be mainly campaigning with "the people."

Now, to the post. Thanks to reader Becky for forwarding me this link. I wasn't sure what the anonymous commenter meant when he/she asked for me to comment on John Edwards' comment. And still wasn't even aware when I got an e-mail from a reporter at the Detroit Free Press asking my opinion on Hilary's jacket from the debate. That's how crazy this week leading up to recess has been! Now I know. And he was right on. "I'm not sure about that coat..." Of course he's not, who is? Why would Obama stick up for it? He has better taste than that - it must have been a political tactic. Why does she keep wearing that hideous quilted disaster? Branding herself maybe? I do think I have said my peace on this topic, just follow the thread...

My last note: This is a really lousy 100th post. It just shows, though, that I have some fantastic readers who help me out when I'm struggling to keep up and that there's national interest in my blog (which is something I only dreamt of when I started this just a couple months ago)! Thanks to everyone for sticking with me and I do promise it'll be all that much better by post 150, 200 and beyond.

The Hill 50 Most Beautiful list: The day after

2007-07-26T14:56:00.001-04:00

I know I should have commented in some way about yesterday's release of Capitol Hill's beautiful people list, but I've been too busy planning my August recess vacation and haven't been keeping up with my blogging, sorry. So here is my rant...

And I thought you couldn't get any shallower than The Hill's Top 50 Most Beautiful People... but I was wrong. Patrick Gavin was on MSNBC talking about the list (what they couldn't get someone from newspaper that actually wrote it?). Here are some highlights of his interview:

"Politians are getting better looking. I mean you just look at the presidential debate going on now, they're not kidding when they say when a candidate looses weight they're thinking about jumping in, because looks really do matter. So there is some truth to this sort of shallow politics."

"In this town power is definitely an aphrodisiac."

"If you have a great job, a great business card, that does go a long way in this town."

"Just look at the field now. Everyone worries about Hillary Clinton's clothes, or, you know, Rudy Guilliani's balding, or Fred Thompson's weight, or Al Gore's weight or anybody's weight. And so because of TV, Internet, YouTube, it's such a fulltime job at this point. Abraham Lincoln got away with it; he couldn't get away with it nowadays." – Responding to a question about if looks matter for politicians during the elections

On another MSNBC show, Jeff Dufour comments on the same Hill hotties list - and Yea (as I like to call him, since Patrick is definitely more the Nea) is much more serious about the topic, here talking about why Nancy Pelosi made the list:

DUFOUR: Nancy Pelosi is, I think, she obviously gets points for the House Speaker and being in that prominent position. But Pelosi's become sort of a style icon in the way that first ladies I don't think have been.
MSNBC: I mean she's 67 years old...
DUFOUR: Sixty-seven years old
MSNBC: ...and she's considered a hottie!?!
DUFOUR: Yeah. Six grandkids. A lot of people have raised questions of plastic surgery with her. But she looks great. She wears Armani almost exclusively. And really spreads her wings as a fashion plate really more than a lot of other women in Washington feel comfortable doing.

– Hill photographers

Chertoff looks human for once

2007-07-23T16:52:00.001-04:00

Not much to say about this photo taken Friday in Long Beach, Calif., just that Rep. Jane Harman looks very well-manicured and stylish in a just-right-for-summer cream suit and Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff actually looks human with his unbuttoned collar and sunglasses. Nice.

– AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes

Hillary's dip into new neckline territory

2007-07-23T16:28:00.000-04:00

I know I am really late on this, but I promise to be better with August recess slowing things down A LOT! Robin Givhan on Hillary's cleavage (the article's pretty interesting, I am just going to give you the intro, but if you have time, read the whole thing.) It caused quite a stir in blogs across the nation - and while I don't really think it's worth a stir (not like the jacket) - it's well written, though I think it has a slight political bias, but whatever...

There was cleavage on display Wednesday afternoon on C-SPAN2. It belonged to Sen. Hillary Clinton.

She was talking on the Senate floor about the burdensome cost of higher education. She was wearing a rose-colored blazer over a black top. The neckline sat low on her chest and had a subtle V-shape. The cleavage registered after only a quick glance. No scrunch-faced scrutiny was necessary. There wasn't an unseemly amount of cleavage showing, but there it was. Undeniable.

It was startling to see that small acknowledgment of sexuality and femininity peeking out of the conservative - aesthetically speaking - environment of Congress. After all, it wasn't until the early '90s that women were even allowed to wear pants on the Senate floor. It was even more surprising to note that it was coming from Clinton, someone who has been so publicly ambivalent about style, image and the burdens of both.

To read the entire article, click here...

Photos of the Past Couple Weeks

2007-07-18T15:38:00.000-04:00

I know it's been a couple weeks - a very busy couple of weeks for this blogger (I can't believe I just referred to myself in the third-person!) - but here are my Photos of the Month Thus Far. I know it's a little long... Also, I highly recommend checking out DCist for they're photos of the day and Flickr group.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and other Senate and House Democratic leaders participate in Tuesday night’s candlelight vigil for a "Call to Action" on Iraq. As a side, I just think Roll Call photographers hit the mark more often than not - they've just got a great eye.

– Tom Williams/Roll Call

A person walks past a large window in the Russell Senate office building Wednesday.

– AP Photo/Susan Walsh

Rep. Tim Walberg - decked out in his suit, loafers and heltmet - parks his Harley-Davidson near the Capitol’s East Steps for National Ride to Work Day.

– Bill Clark/Roll Call

President Bush delivers remarks on the federal budget on July 11 in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building - it's just perfectly framed.

– AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais

She's in a league - er, row - of her own. Veteran White House correspondent Helen Thomas sits in her brand-new assigned seat located in the front row before the ribbon-cutting ceremony July 11 for the renovated James S. Brady Press Briefing Room in the White House.

– AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais

A gorgeous shot of D.C. youth doing illegal things on the Fourth of July, taken by a local Flickrer.

– alex.DC on Flickr

Fourth of July fireworks seen over the Potomac, taken by a local Flikrer.

– epmd on Flickr

One of the technically impressive shots from a photo essay consisting of 25 amazing shots taken via cell phone, and you would never know it. They are a quite interesting mix of local culture. Check it out here...

Former Playboy Playmates Lauren Anderson and Laura Guttridge, clad in lettuce bikinis, peddle veggie dogs to some very sleepy Congressmen at PETA’ annual Capitol Hill Veggie Dog Giveaway outside of the Rayburn House Office Building on Wednesday.

– Bill Clark/Roll Call

The '90s are back, in ruffly form

2007-07-18T15:37:00.000-04:00

Wow, when you think Hill's fashion sense can't get any worse, she shows up to deliver a speech to the Planned Parenthood Action Fund wearing a straight-from-the-90s ruffle-collard shirt with some sort of geometric floral pattern. Seriously, can someone please get her a fashion consultant?!?

– AP Photo/Gerald Herbert

Livestrong trend die hard

2007-07-18T15:30:00.000-04:00

So after I saw the photo of Tony Snow (see previous entry) and then after I came across this pic of FDA Commissioner Andrew von Eschenbach testifying on Capitol Hill (nice cuff links, just ditch the yellower-than-now bracelet), I wondered: When did it become OK to wear these so-2004 plastic bracelets with professional attire. And I secretly want to know which causes these men are supporting. I guess it's just me... Anybody else have an opinion - or more importantly, know what the bracelet says?

– AP Photo/Lauren Victoria Burke

****UPDATE****
After some Googling, I discovered that the White House press office handed out yellow bracelets to reporters in May that say "Tony Snow," who was just overcoming cancer himself. I am assuming now that he is wearing a bracelet with his name on it - like an ID tag, just plastically delicious.

Snow makes vision blurry

2007-07-18T14:51:00.000-04:00

Pinstripe may not play well on TV,
but those new flat screens sure are nice.

I haven't seen that powerful of pinstripe in summer since, well, since I don't know when. It's very Godfather-esque and I'm not so sure it's the right look for Mr. Snow. Our press secretary is overpowered by the thick stripe - and though this is a photograph, I'm sure it didn't reproduce well on TV. I do have to say, however - and the real reason I even looked at this photo - those video screens in the new press room are quite nice and helpful in presenting the news. That and more comfortable seats.

No comment on the plastic, as-bright-as-the-sun bracelet or the large BandAid (poor Tony, what happened?) on his right hand.

– AP Photo/Ron Edmonds

In memory of a classy lady

2007-07-12T19:00:00.000-04:00

I'm not going to say anything, just show you how gorgeous Lady Bird was throughout her tenure. She'll be greatly missed.

– All photos from AP Archives

****UPDATE****
Read this interesting article by Robin Givhan.

Just one look at that smirk...

2007-07-12T18:55:00.000-04:00

I don't have anything to say, he's just so cute! Rob Lowe was in town today, testifying before the House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming hearing on the potential of plug-in hybrid vehicles.

–AP Photo/Lauren Victoria Burke

K Street, here's a new propsal to lobby for

2007-07-11T01:30:00.000-04:00

Take heed D.C. officials, it's hot outside! Mark Kleiman rather sarcastically comments on the EU's proposal to ban neckties in summer:

... The excuse is energy conservation; men with open collars (and no jackets) presumably can tolerate warmer offices, saving on air-conditioning.

Whatever.

Getting rid of that ugly, expensive, and uncomfortable badge of middle-classness will certainly improve the quality of EU decision-making by improving the oxygen supply to the brains of the Eurocrats, and perhaps making them less pompous. ...

Who would have expected such a great blow for hippie/Boomer/Angeleno culture to come from Brussels, of all places?

– AP Photo/Thierry Charlier

Parakeets and palms on the Hill

2007-07-11T01:13:00.001-04:00

This photo's a couple weeks old, but I just came across it. John Kerry's wearing an orange tie with parakeets and palm trees - very Nantucket. I'm not really sure how I feel. I kind of like it, I have to admit; at least he's having some fun with fashion. Any opinions?

– AP Photo/Dennis Cook

****UPDATE****
Again, after posting, I noticed that the colors of the tie are very close the the dots on the site's design...

Sorry, he's just asking for it

2007-07-11T01:03:00.000-04:00

Sen. Biden, just a word of advice, you're from Delaware, not Florida - loose the Miami look!

– AP Photo/Cheryl Senter

Does she own anything non-textured?

2007-07-11T00:55:00.000-04:00

More of the same quilted textures, more of the faux-French cuff, more of the same turquoise blue, but this time it's got a fake double-breasted lapel. Did she get a deal on the fabric or did she buy out the entire line of jackets from Chico's? No word yet from the HilCamp.

– AP Photo/Alex Brandon

State meetings: Why-are-we-meeting-with-Macedonia edition

2007-07-11T00:19:00.000-04:00

There are four fashion statements I'd like to compliment in this photo (best viewed if you click on it and make it large):

1. First off, I love Condi's peep-toe pumps, which have been showing up all over the White House lately (the first lady wore a pair yesterday, too). Finally, there is some exception to the stiff rule of no open-toe shoes. Peep toes are a great summer shoe - allowing a little air to flow while maintaining modesty and class (plus you can show off your pedicure). It's nice to see that politicians are trying to stay somewhat on top of the trends.

2. Just look at that bootylishousness (sp?) on the Secretary of State!

3. I know that skinny ties are trying to become a fashion trend for men, but I just love the big knots you get from thicker ties. The diagonal-stripe number on the Macedonian Foreign Minister, Antonio Milososki, just looks so chic (just ignore the fact his jacket is two sizes too big for him).

4. Not really fashion, but I just check out the decor of the State Department. I love the combination of the eggshell paint and all of the crystal. I guess that's where all our tax dollars are going...

– AP Photo/Gerald Herbert

Well, he did say no more bow ties

2007-07-10T14:59:00.000-04:00

"I am standing in my kitchen in my boxer shorts."

- Tucker Carlson on Monday morning, during a phone
interview with MSNBC
... It's all about the visual

– ABC's "Dancing With The Stars" via palmbeachpost.com

Sightings, with fashion in mind

2007-07-10T13:24:00.000-04:00

Yeas & Nays spies called in the following recent sightings:

Disgraced former congressman Mark Foley in Bethany Beach, Del., on Saturday night, shopping in the baked good sections of a local grocery store. Foley was sporting a summer look: sunglasses around the neck and a polo shirt.

The Bush twins having fun last week at Adams Mill in Adams Morgan. Our source was blown away by Jenna’s “gorgeous green dress.” Naturally, the girls had a handful of preppy-looking boys surrounding them, and a man who could be pegged only as part of the first daughters’ Secret Service entourage was overheard bugging the bouncer about when the bar would announce “Last call!” “Jenna looked great and was enjoying standing outside with her cigarette talking to her tall, country-club-looking friends who appeared to be 35-plus,” our spy said. “Barbara had a nice-looking black dress on and [had] what looked like a Jager bomb towards the end of the night.” Bottoms up.

To read all of YAN, click here...

53 and looking fabulous

2007-07-08T23:22:00.000-04:00

In an interview in this month's edition of Harper's Bazaar, Cindy McCain talks about how she coped with having several miscarriages, recovered from a stroke, overcame a prescription-drug addiction and her 27-year marriage to GOP presidential hopeful John McCain. And so what, a bunch or people are giving her a hard time because she's confusing her quotes, or something along those lines, but like I've said before: this isn't a politics Web site, it's fashion. She just looks fabulous for 53! I'm not sure why she was styled in a so-so $62,ooo Dior gown, but her hair and makeup were perfection.

– Photos by John Huba/Harper's Bazaar

In response to the Ron Paul response

2007-07-05T11:17:00.001-04:00

I am not sure why I let a comment on this blog affect me in the way that it did, but I have been thinking about "anonymous' " comment since Tuesday afternoon. Now I know it was probably a Ron Paul supporter, or more likely a staffer - especially since after viewing the "hits analysis" on my site and noticing several people searched Google for "Ron Paul" - and whoever it was was just trying to stand-up for their main-man, but come on, sneakers with a suit? And I am clearly not the only one who has a problem with this: beyond Manolo and Wonkette picking it up, someone started a blog just this week called Ron Paul's Shoes that is based solely on this fashion misstep.

There are a lot of Congressmen, businessmen, lawyers, doctors etc. who are 71 years old - and older - who dress professionally every day. I have searched a bit and not found any articles or anything else that would lead me to believe Paul has any sort of health problem in which he would need the extra comfort shoes. I did find out that he wears these sneakers everyday, which is even worse than I thought, just wearing them to a CEAFU reception. But even if he does have a medical situation in which he needs the extra support, there are plenty of manufacturers out there that make classy, well-polished and - dare I say it - comfortable shoes for men in all price ranges.

Here's my problem, which I really feel Paul doesn't understand: There is just a certain level of dress and professionalism associated with being in the political-public eye. And this is a completely unpartisan comment - I had issue with President Bush's terrible outfit when he wore his Crocs and am constantly baffled by Hillary's wardrobe - but when you are the leader of the free world, or running for that office, you need to present yourself as such. Everyone is looking to you to set the example; you are quite literally the icon of America. Now I know Bush has made quite a few political fumbles in the past six plus years, but in general, he's dressed well while making them. He had to, he was on camera, and if Ron Paul chooses to put himself in that limelight he better act and dress the part.

– Darren at rightontheleftcoast.blogspot.com

****UPDATE****
I couldn't just leave it at that, either. I wanted to give some fantastic examples of comfortable, but stylish, shoes available - and maybe a Ron Paul staffer is reading this and will go out and buy him some new shoes. There are tons of styles out there, but here are a couple I found in just minutes on the Web:

Geox Monet 1 - The soft, textured leather makes this loafer perfect for dress-up or dress-down days and I love Geox for its breathable design, making your feet cozy and sweat-free for hours. Plus, they still have the sneaker-esque rubber sole that makes them slip-free on the just-waxed Capitol-campus floors.

Bostonian Asby - A nice, classic black bicycle-toe oxford that is made specifically for comfort: Bostonian has added extra padding on the heel and ball areas, padding around the ankle, and Ortholite foam lining so it forms to your foot.

Dr. Scholls Men's Winder Non Slip - Many people disregard Dr. Scholl's shoes because they remember the wooden sandals of yesteryear that were not at all comfortable. Nowadays, the company has rebranded itself and is making quite stylish wares. (I even have two pairs I wear often.) These slip-on oxfords feature Dr. Scholl's Massaging Gel insole, ankle padding and no-slip rubber soles.

More D.C. style: Bring uncomfortable back?

2007-07-05T10:53:00.000-04:00

This was posted a week or so ago on Who am I? Why am I here?, but I found it an interesting insight and quite well written, so I don't mind being late. Here is commentary about commentary about commentary:

I agree with D.C. sidewalk blogger that flip flops precipitate a dragging gait, but neither “sexy” nor “classy fashion of women in old Hollywood” has been a hallmark of D.C. style. If anything, D.C. style is the best it has ever been. Nancy Pelosi, the most prominent female politician, has eschewed the primary-colored-power-suit-matching-pumps for a more refined, chic look. Even Hillary Clinton, no foe of the power suit during her husband’s presidency, has at least settled on a softer yellow that does not quite jump out the way the hideous '90s ensembles did. (I disagree, but everyone has their own opinion.)

Still, D.C.’s dress code remains counter-intuitive to its weather, particularly in the hot, humid summer. ... The conservative formality of this city instates a dress code of suits and closed-toed dress shoes that quickly precipitate the sweat storm that is a thing of daily existence for area residents. (I will grudgingly admit that in this environment, seersucker suits make sense). I am a firm believer that style and comfort need not be mutually exclusive, but the D.C. fashion scene seems to miss both by remaining wedded to impratical dress codes. ...

... Why shouldn’t D.C.’s women be able to freely adapt to their city’s climate, which happens to be incredibly uncomfortable in the summer? In this vein, sandals of any kind make the most sense, and the style is not uniformly unglamorous. That this author is willing to give men a pass for looking “slovenly” but wills that women squeeze into pumps or stillettos or other signifiers of glamor makes his rant even more patently and ridiculously archaic.

To read the entire posting, click here...

New blogger on the scene: DC Goodwill Fashionista

2007-07-03T13:43:00.000-04:00

According to Fishbowl, Goodwill of Greater Washington "became the first non-profit agency to officially launch its own fashion blog." "The blog will share detailed knowledge and insight on vintage and contemporary clothing and accessories that are valuable to cost conscious fashion shoppers."

Here's what the DC Goodwill Fashionista has to say in the first entry:

In this space, I and guest bloggers will tell you all about the great finds we have at Goodwill retail stores in the DC, MD, and VA so that you can complement your own style with our unique fashions. And awesome prices! Most shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, and shoes at Goodwill stores are less than $10 bucks. That means a whole outfit can be had for under $50! For a girl like me who loves clothes – but has to be on a budget! – this is like the best of all possible worlds.

... In fact, your DCGF bought a practically new pair of Banana Republic dark-rinse trouser jeans just yesterday! And you’ll want to keep an eye out for Wednesday’s posting. It’s a feature were calling “The Goodwill Good Buy of the Week,” and it features – surprise! – some really cool jeans I found at our Manassas store.

Check it out here...

****UPDATE****
I got off work early on Tuesday and was inspired by the new DC Goodwill Fashionista blog, so I decided to check out where my local Goodwill store is. I found out the closest one is quite far, but I went anyway. After battling New York Ave. traffic, I discovered a very different Goodwill than I remembered from when I was a teenager in the MidWest searching for 25 cent T-shirts. I wanted to find a pair of jeans like DCGF suggested, but after trying on a few pairs - there are nice big dressing rooms now! - I didn't find the right ones for me. There were some nice pairs, though, even some designer labels. I did come out with a great pair of vintage Italian-made, like-new, cobalt blue Via Spiga suede pumps that will be a staple come fall. I also bought a cute sweater that was only 99 cents - as are all of them for the summer - and a couple CDs. I spent less than $10 and am very happy with my purchases.

The Ron Paul and His Disgraceful Shoes

2007-07-03T12:21:00.000-04:00

Ron Paul's shocked everyone and somehow has raised $3 million this quarter. Who gives him money? Any why wouldn't they just buy him some new shoes?

Here's what blog Manolo had to say about the libertarian Congressman/doctor:

[I] hope that the Croc in Chief would be replaced by something better than the Wal-Mart trousers and the ratty Reeboks.

To see the entire post, click here...

– Darren at rightontheleftcoast.blogspot.com

Stealing Warhol's style: The Nina Totin' Bag

2007-07-03T11:35:00.000-04:00

From the DCist, who saw it in The Hill:

We couldn't help but giggle when we heard an ad on WAMU today for The Nina Totin' Bag, a collectible canvas bag honoring NPR's Legal Affairs correspondent (who is certainly getting a workout lately with all the Supreme Court decisions being handed down in rapid succession), Nina Totenberg. Shouldn't it be the Nina Totenbag, then?

... it appears they have made a limited number available for sale at the NPR Shop. You know, right next to the Wait Wait Don't Tell Me Water Bottles.

To read the entire DCist blog, click here... To buy a bag, click here...

Photos of the Week

2007-07-03T01:06:00.000-04:00

In going with my obsession with digging through AP photos, I've decided to do a Photos of the Week. This is anything combining D.C., politics, the media, fashion, arts etc. If this becomes popular (please let me know if you like it), I'll keep it going.

President Bush makes a joint statement Monday with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Bush family compound on Walker's Point in Kennebunkport, Maine.

– AP Photo/Gerald Herbert

An oversized Oreo Cakester sits outside Union Station on Monday to commemorate the 95th anniversary of the Oreo sandwich cookie.

– FredoAlvarez on Flickr

The Capitol is reflected in a wine glass at Ken Mehlman's going-away party on the roof of Charlie Palmer’s last Tuesday.

– Liz Gorman for Wonkette

It's just a really pretty picture: Washington area residents awoke Tuesday to a rainbow of colors as the warm morning sunrise colors the skyline.

– AP Photo/Ron Edmonds

With the Capitol in the background, Juan Ponse installs seats in the upper deck of the new Washington Nationals baseball stadium. The stadium is expected to be completed by opening day 2008.

– AP Photo/Evan Vucci

Rep. Anthony Weiner, D-N.Y., sits in the dugout with a black eye after colliding with teammate Rep. Jim Marshall, D-Ga., while attempting to make a play in the outfield at the 46th Annual Roll Call Congressional Baseball Game. The goof was just one of nine errors made by the Dems.

– Tom Williams/Roll Call

Hillary's got coral fever

2007-07-03T00:43:00.000-04:00

Hillary brought out her fantastic coral jacket again on Saturday, this time to address the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Then, less than 36 hours later she brought out the same matchy-matchy jewelry as she met with everyone's favorite iPhone-loving mayor, Philly's own John Street, and then later in the day in Iowa.

- AP Photo/Reinhold Matay and Matt Rourke, respectively

A final goodbye to the Blairs

2007-06-28T14:47:00.000-04:00

So they weren't the most fashionable sextet in the history of political families, but I think this was a nice way to go out. Leaving their London home for the last time, the Blairs looked put together - though what in the hell is Cherie wearing?!? Is it that cold in England in June that you need a full-length raincoat? (With matching fuchsia shoes!) I do have to say, the boys clean up nicely, and when did Nicky get GQ hot? (He's old enough now that I can say that. I wonder if he plays with Harry? They're about the same age...) Anyways, this is just a posting to say goodbye.

– AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis

Introducing the new British first lady

2007-06-28T14:17:00.000-04:00

British women often get stereotyped as being unattractive, and while there are so many Brits who are gorgeous, I do have to say the fashions of the new Prime Minister's wife are no better than her predecessor.

While I understand the choice of red and white for Sarah Brown due to her gorgeous light auburn hair, what I don't understand is why she would do such an injustice to her body by wearing either of these frocks (I just had to get the word in!).

While belts are good to accentuate the waist, the pockets and large loops on the cream suit below just add width where it is not needed. Plus, this picture doesn't show it, but there is a front slit! At right I have to give her mad prop for wearing bright red, 3+-inch stiletto peep-toe slingbacks, but the rest of the outfit is so matronly. Very Chico's-esque.

– AP Photos/Matt Dunham and Martin Rickett/PA, respectively

Dressing for African heat

2007-06-28T13:44:00.000-04:00

I don't have too much to say about this mother-daughter fashion duo on their trip to Africa - though I wish it didn't look like the first lady was picking her nose. Overall, both have proven to be very thoughtful fashionistas. My only comment on these ensembles is the fabric choice. I understand Laura's choice of linen (or so it seems), though she's a bit wrinkly, as she's in Africa in June...but I am not sure about Jenna's choice of silk for the summer heat. Maybe Senegal isn't as hot and swampy as D.C.? Cute color though.

– AP Photo/Schalk van Zuydam

Just trying to make that next campaign finance goal...

2007-06-28T13:12:00.000-04:00

"No matter what your summer activities may include, I'm sure you'll want to stand out as a John McCain supporter." – From a McCain e-mail selling polo shirts emblazoned with McCain's name and logo.

It's a deal: one polo for $100 or two polos for $150! To buy the polo, you're outta luck - it's not on the Web site yet, but you can get a McCain hoodie for $100, click here...

To read a humorous Wonkette posting about it, click here...

Dressing Michelle Obama

2007-06-28T12:57:00.001-04:00

I just love finding out where pols have their duds made. That's why today's WWD feature on Chicago designer Maria Pinto, who dresses potential-first lady Michelle Obama, was so interesting. Obama dresses so young and chic, while staying within the bounds of conservative Washington, just like her husband. If somehow they make it into the White House, I think there could be a big change in D.C. style. Plus those little kids are just too cute!

To read the article you need an account, so if you do, click here...

– AP Photo/Ed Reinke from 2004