Capitol Hill Style: The Floor Report

Entries Tagged as 'The Floor Report'

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 by Belle

The Floor Report: Brighten Up for Summer

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Belle’s BFF, Miss M, is back with a new addition of The Floor Report.  What does Capitol Hill Style’s boldest trendspotter have to say?

So this time of year, especially after an insanely sunny weekend of pool side lounging and SkinnyGirl margarita sipping, I get an intense desire to either wear bright white or bold colors. Well, it’s my lucky season because coral is here today and here to stay. The color has not only made its way into cosmetics, but the motif is all over jewelry and bathing suits from Kenneth Jay Lane to YSL.  So I have corralled all of my favorite coral items corralled into one hot spot here on CHS!

Polyvore Set Found Here.

OPI Nail Polish “On Collins Ave”: This polish is the go-to coral shade for everyone’s pedicure this season – it goes with warm tones and cool tones to compliment everyone’s skin. A bright dose of color at the office or beach without being over-the-top. 

NARS lipgloss in “Babe” and blush in “Taj Mahal”: Do not be fooled by the bright orange blush sitting in the pan. On the skin, it imparts the warmest, bronziest, deep peach accent and comes through beautifully in photographs. After a little sun this weekend, I popped the “Taj Mahal” on the apples of my cheeks directly after a sheer swipe of Nars “Orgasm” for a contoured, sun-kissed look. After lining my lips with a nude pencil and slicking “Babe” on my pout, I dabbed a hint of the shimmery peach Nars “Greek Holiday” lip gloss into the center of my bottom lip for a glassy+classy full pout. 

Diana Warner “Rachael” necklace: Some years ago, a dear stylist friend introduced me to Diana Warner’s beautiful collection of designs by gifting me with the necklace in the set.  Wearing a coral branch is said to bring good luck – and couldn’t we all use a little of that? 

Coral Tassel Crystal Earrings: Ever since I saw Gwyneth wearing bright tassle earrings early this Spring, I’ve been wanting a pair for myself. This length and color is a fringe-lovers delight. Slip these on under a fedora, grab your white jeans and a tee, and you’re ready for wherever the weekend takes you. Or use them to add color to a basic neutral dress. 

Coral and Gold Sandals: Oh Top Shop, how do we love thee? Please accept my purchase of these coral shoes as a sign of my affection.

Lastly, for coral dress ideas – if you’re channeling Belle, you wear the dress on the left.  (I protest, I would never wear white belt.  It’s like she doesn’t no me at all.  *wink*)  If you’re channeling Miss M, you wear the boho-chic, maxi-dress.  And if a girl can dress in her wildest dreams, you’d choose the chiffon Halston.

Polyvore Set Found Here.

Tuesday, February 8, 2011 by Belle

The Floor Report: A 24k Gold Facial

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Beating the winter blues costs money, and short of fleeing to a tropical island, I’m running out of wallet-friendly ideas for treating my seasonal affective disorder. Luckily, The Spa @ Equinox Bethesda has a treatment that is the perfect combination of luxury and mood-booster, their 24k Gold Facial ($165).

 

After I checked in for my appointment, the spa manager showed me to the locker room, and provided me with a robe and fresh socks. Additionally, you’re allowed to use the gym if you’ve booked a treatment at the spa, and you have full access to showers/steam rooms before or after the appointment. Also, Kiehl’s products are featured in the bathrooms and showers, and filtered drinking water is provided.

 

Lauded in the cosmetic world for its regenerative power, the 24k gold facial is designed to help reverse the signs of aging by reducing melanin and combating free radical damage.  The facial is also supposed to leave the skin more firm, fresh, and vibrant.

 

As for the facial itself, the treatment lasted 75 minutes and included the following:

 

-2 step cleansing consisting of one mild, make-up removal cleansing and another more abrasive foamy cleansing to deep clean the skin

-Customized skin assessment

-Hyaluronic acid formula application for moisture

-Extractions

-Face massage

-Primrose oil formula decolletage massage

-Equinox 24k Gold Collagen Mask applied and left on for 15 minutes

-Rinse and application of eye cream and moisturizer

 

I will admit, my skin felt so much better after the treatment, and any blemishes I had were well on their way to being healed by the time I left. The treatment was also very relaxing, which was the perfect way to kick off my weekend.

 

As for the aesthetician, while I firmly believe that no one can replace a good dermatologist, the skin assessment was interesting and she was knowledgeable about the Skinceuticals products she used in the facial.

 

I give the facial and the customer service two thumbs up.  It’s a great way to indulge your Midas fantasy while beating the winter blues.  The facial would also make a great Valentine’s Day gift for that special someone in your life. 

 

Miss M is a retail consultant and marketing guru who lives in Bethesda, MD.  Equinox provided her with a 24k gold facial free of charge, but the opinions described above are her own. 

Monday, January 17, 2011 by Belle

The Floor Report: 2011 Golden Globes

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Gaga for Green.  After all the attention Angie received for her emerald earrings on the 2009 Oscar Red Carpet, it’s no surprise she chose a show-stopping beaded Versace gown in the same color. A perfect choice for cool January temperatures, the sleeves, neckline, and lady-like column silhouette were a bit safe, but effortlessly chic.

Mad Men’s Elizabeth Moss and Catherine Zeta-Jones also chose green, but my favorite was Mila Kunis whose emerald beauty can’t be denied.

Green with Envy for: Mila  A close Second goes to: Angelina  Honorable Mention: Catherine Zeta-Jones

Beading and Bling.  Always expected during awards show season is the sparkle and shine of faceted beads and sequins. Several gowns didn’t disappoint in the glitz department.

Anne Hathaway’s look had “Rachel Zoe is my stylist” written all over it, but I don’t care. It was everything I would have wanted if I were going to the Globes. Relaxed hair with warm highlights, vintage-chic dress that grazes every curve, and shoulder pads that allow the dress to drape and dip perfectly down the back.

ScarJo went a bit conservative, and less bodycon then usual. Her teased back/updo was big and little ratty for my taste, but with a resounding “She’s so hot” from my husband, I suppose I gotta give the girl some credit. I liked the gold color and exquisite delicate beading on the elbow length ethereal sleeves.

Olivia Wilde’s gown tonight was a strapless, sparkly, chocolate Marchesa dream. Call me crazy, but this gown in white would be gorgeous for a bride.

Nicole Kidman went for soft, pale yellow Prada sequins, with a bow belt detail, and slim column silhouette.  What was with the green pin on her shoulder?

And I’ve been wondering if Nicole and Keith are expecting a second child – she either forgot spanx, is retaining water, or is pregnant and just hasn’t announced it yet.

Belle of the Beaded Ball: Tie between Anne and Olivia

Pink Ladies. A pregnant Natalie Portman chose a draped, silk, blush-hued gown with a beaded red rose adornment. Though her dress didn’t dazzle me, I thought her matching clutch and shoes were a perfect compliment to the look. If only they could bottle that pregnancy glow and perfect makeup…

Sandra Bullock chose a gorgeous Jenny Packham dress. The writers at People.com actually thought that Carrie Underwood might wear the blush style with silver sequins, but I guess once Sandra spoke for it, it was taken. 

The feminine color, draping, and silhouette made for a gorgeous combination but for some reason despite the beautiful dress, I thought Sandra’s hair and overall look fell flat.

Megan Fox always gets attention, and her glittery Armani Prive pink and silver dress did as well. A soft look for Fox, her all-around look was pulled together and pretty.

Lea Michelle was all roses with her peachy-pink ruffled Oscar de la Renta confection. My favorite juxtaposition was the bright green ring she wore to accessorize the taffy colored gown.

Claire Danes dared to be different in hot pink Calvin Klein collection. Her skin was a perfect healthy shade, her make-up accented her features and let the dress be the statement. Well done.

Pretty in Pink: Lea  Love the dress, hate the hair: Sandra  Honorable Mention: Claire

Black and Better Than Ever.  Eva is bouncing back and looking fabulous in her black, slightly plunging Zac Posen with sexy cut-out back. Glowing makeup and sheer confidence prove there’s nothing better than a woman who feels comfortable in her own skin, and chooses a dress that fits.

Best Black: Eva  Honorable Mention: Halle Berry

Red Hot.  January Jones and Sophia Vergara deserve a mention as they both rocked red the way it should be done. January channeled a sexy Grace Kelly with elegant hair, classic bold red lips and alabaster skin.

Sophia was the quintessential Latina Bombshell with my favorite jewelry of the night – unapologetically large and icy bangles and earrings that stood up with gusto to the va-va-voom of the red dress she wore.

Not My Favorite.  Helena Bonham Carter in Vivienne Westwood. My husband literally asked verbatim, “Is she gonna get a Razzi for her outfit?” You know it’s bad.  (Two different shoes, really?)

Amy Adams in her navy, lazer-cut Marchesa gown with structured gathered asymmetrically placed bow (if that’s what you call it). I usually love Marchesa but this was a let-down.

Michelle Williams in Valentino. Gerbera daisy print? Was this Valentino for Anthropologie? Too hippy-dippy and maybe a cute fabric for bedding or a table cloth. Not a good choice for a Golden Globes gown – even if it is Valentino.

J.Lo’s turn on the red carpet was not one of her best white moments with the beaded sheer half-cape going on.  And Emma Stone gone blonde and too casual. Where’s the respect? It’s the GLOBES!  

Miss M is a retail consultant and stylist living in Bethesda.  While she and Belle may not agree on January Jones’ Versace dress, M brings a different perspective to Capitol Hill Style.  

Wednesday, January 12, 2011 by Belle

The Floor Report: What Miss M Wants Now

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After the Holiday rush of gift-giving and party hopping, all I want is to cure the chills with a little retail therapy.  I get stuck in a rut being indoors with dry air, dry hair, and Spring fashion seems so far, far away.  The least I can do is dream on about the things I wish I had in my closet. 

With all the cashmere in full rotation along with leggings, legwarmers and skinny jeans tucked into boots during the cold, wet weather, of course new accessories make everything better and bit more wintery glam.

Ioselliani Bangle (Les Pommettes, $425)

How fab if I layered the bangles and watch together on the same wrist! One of my favorite combinations.

Michael Kors Blackout Watch (MK, $495)

This top is a two-for-one. Layer over a long black racerback tank and grey skinny jeans now, throw on over your black bikini or a tight black skirt when June rolls around. 

Thayer Fabu Cover Up (ShopBop, $215)

I am loving the maxi skirt trend right now. Tuck in a knit tank or thin cashmere short-sleeved sweater and choose a tailored blazer to top it all off.  Slouchy boots in a neutral color complete the look. 

Rachel Pally Long Skirt (ShopBop, $198)

Can’t go all the way to the floor? – this is a hot compromise. Not too short, not too long  – a skirt for all seasons. 

ALC Ruched Jersey Skirt (Intermix, $310)

Belle and I have both been craving a black jean lately. These are my supreme pick. Flare is back.

J Brand Lovestory in Black (Piperlime, $200)

For a quick shot of color and hydration, this Laura Mercier Lip Velvet formula is not only long-wearing and anti-aging, but leaves lips soft with a perfect finish. 

Laura Mercier Lip Velvet (Saks, $22)

**You know a product is good when they won’t let you buy more than six of them every 30 days due to high demand.**  

Belle knows better than anyone how much I love hats  – especially ones that don’t mess up my hair and keep my ears warm in the cold. This new addition to my wardrobe is a classic. 

 

 

Burberry Check Print Newsboy (Nordstrom, $250)

Miss M is a stylist and a retail consultant who lives in Bethesda.  She takes pieces that most people would never, ever wear and makes wearing it seem as natural as breathing.  That’s style.  And it makes Belle sick *wink*.

Thursday, November 11, 2010 by Sarah

The Floor Report: Plumes and Poms

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Keeping the bohemian spirit alive, as I am known to do, becomes a bit more difficult during this time of year when my light-wash flare Current/Elliots and mounds of bangles are out of place among the tweeds, clean leather stiletto boots and peacoats emerging out of women’s closets all over the District. However, this gypsy girl has found details all over the stores this season that are an ode to far off lands and their fringy, furry, and feathered treasures.

Gucci Marrakech Bag ($2,290)

As John Legend makes an appearance at Tysons Galleria to open the new Gucci store, what better way to salute than with this fantastic “Marrakech” shoulder bag. The tan, the tassles, and braided handles are a gorgeous addition to any outfit, pairing flawlessly with neutrals and popping against any standby black classic cashmere you’re reaching for.

Tiger Lily jewelry collection always brings chic, dainty pieces that stand up to the textures of F/W. This feather necklace is one of my faves!

Tiger Lily Feather Necklace (Singer22, $170)

Not a necklace gal? Try these instead.

 

Gold Fill Featherstone Earrings (Tina Tang, $75)

Infinity scarves are here to stay, so you might as well enjoy the warmth that comes along with such an effortless trend. I have several from last season, but this time, my selection got an upgrade with irresistible rabbit fur. Chocolate brown and soft as silk, this amazing piece will be worn over the lapel of my jackets, doubled up for a snuggly thick neck warmer, and layered over silk blouses like a vest. Three ways to wear it and I’m sold!

Rabbit Knit Infinity Scarf (Intermix, $198)

This newsboy cap with a pom twist is just fantastic for blustery days or Saturday mornings.

Georgia Pom Newsboy Cap (ShopBop, $188)

If you don’t want to jump off the high-dive with these plumes and pom-poms, but would rather just get your feet wet, they look just as good on paper as they do in person.

Feather Desk Calendar (Paper Source, $12)

Miss M is a local retail and style consultant and Belle’s closest friend.  She occasionally shares her fashion wisdom and boho-chic style with the masses via Capitol Hill Style.  I know some of you wish she’d write more, but then, when would she have time to solve all of Belle’s personal problems?  No, it’s best that she sticks to her day job as Belle’s best girl friend.

Copyright © 2006, Capitol Hill Style. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed on Capitol Hill Style by Belle, a guest blogger or those providing comments are theirs alone. They do not reflect the opinions of Belle's current employer, Belle's previous employers or any groups or organizations with which she is affiliated.

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