Guest looking at jewelry.

Stylish and savvy are two words that capture Stella & Dot accessories. Designed to capture and inspire chic womenacross the globe, Stella & Dot did just that at on July 29, 2010 in Washington, D.C.  Stella & Dot joined efforts with leading eco-fashion non-profit Fashion Fights Poverty (FFP) in Georgetown at Puro Café. In an effort to support the FFP global platform, 20% of the proceeds went to fund-raising initiatives for this year’s event. “We are so excited  to partner with Stella and Dot,” said  Sylvie Luanghy, Vice President of Corporate Relations, Events & Co-founder of FFP.

Stella & Dot offered a preview and fashion show of their Fall 2010 collection with key pieces from their Metro Chic, Day to Night and Vintage Luxe collections. For fashion and jewelry lovers in the area that are not familiar with Stella & Dot, they offer a unique appeal to jewelry for the modern/ on-the-go woman.  Stella & Dot has been featured in The New York Times, on The View, The Today Show and in countless fashion magazines such as InStyle and Lucky magazine.

Deco Earrings

I had the opportunity to speak with Stella & Dot Director, Julie Canellos and new D.C. jewelry stylist Kristine Thomas about the feature fall collections and trends within the D.C. metropolitan area. “There are so many great pieces with Stella & Dot.  Each piece is so versatile.  The Deco Drop earrings are prices at $39 and are a must have for the fall season,” said Julie Cannellos.  “The Deco earrings offer a classic vintage look and have been extremely popular.”

Other fall must haves for the D.C. fashionista are the Bardot Spiral Bangle which is priced at $49. My personal favorites for bracelets are the Maltese Cuffs in ivory and black as well as the Coloburst Enamel Cuff- GreenTurq. For a beautifully bold neck statement, according to stylist Kristine Thomas, “Women should go for the Charlotte Statement Necklace or Natasha Embroidered Bib Necklace.

Throughout the fashion event, models demonstrated the various looks of each Stella & Dot piece.  From adding broaches to necklaces to using necklaces as bracelets, Stella & Dot understand that women want functional, classic, and stylish pieces.

As the night came to an end women rushed to place orders and book trunk shows. Michael Dumlao, FFP Chief Creative Officer & Co-founder thanked Stella & Dot as well and Puro Café for hosting the event. “We would like to thank everyone for their help and contributions that made this night possible.”

So how can you get the latest Fall 2010 collection from Stella & Dot here in Washington, D.C.?  For trunk shows contact Stella & Dot Director, Julie Canellos at 703-624-5929. Also, get style tips from local style representatives in your area at www.stelladot.com.

TheGirlfriendGroup, CEO, Vanessa Maddox

On Saturday, July 24, 2010, Vanessa Maddox and TheGirlfriendGroup premiered their 2nd Annual Chanel Girlfriend Party at Tysons Galleria’s Saks Fifth Avenue in McLean, Virginia.  Led by the direction of Chanel Retail Manager Lizette Settepani, the event offered an insider’s look into Chanel’s history, lifestyle, and Fall 2010 trends for both fashion and beauty.

So what can “Chanel Lovers” and Fashionistas in the D.C. Metropolitan area anticipate for this upcoming Fall 2010 season?

According to Chanel representatives neutrals will play a huge role for color schemes this fall. The use of contrasting colors (ie: black and white) with both make-up and clothing is key to offering a bold statement this season. Camel colors accessorized with a splash of red or animal prints will be essential to looking trendy. Additionally, maroon, glacier blue and grays mixed with cream will be colors ever D.C. woman should aim to mix and match in her wardrobe.

Chanel’s Ready-to-Wear Fall 2010 collection features tweed on tweed.  Layering will be the focus this season, so pairing tweeds with the new Chanel “envelop” jacket is a must.  For that extra stylish look, dressing in skinny jeans with thigh high boots will take your look to the next level.

Chanel is also featuring a gorgeous iridescent cardigan and shift dress with Lesage crest detail for fall.  For you fierce fashionistas, you all will be happy to know that motorcycle jackets return this year and should be paired with mini-skits.  If you are looking for that extra chic accessory, chain suspenders will do the trick.

For Chanel fans that desire a sporty look, the company has produced denim-inspired knits, jackets, and dresses.  The ‘Coco Cocoon’ jackets come in five colors which match perfectly with Chanel nylon handbags.  For a unique look Chanel representatives recommend pairing different color handbags with jackets.

Finally, for that “Capitol Hill” Happy Hour or evening engagement, ladies can mix and match a variety of day-to-evening options.  This season Chanel has designed a chic fitted stretch jacket to be paired with a mini skirt.  Lastly, look for the must-have satin zip front dresses to be worn with skinny paillette tuxedo pants.-This will add that extra mark of elegance.

Chanel Fashion Tip: Look for pieces that are accented with velvet or faux fur.

Saks Fifth Avenue did a tremendous job with the TheGirlfriendGroup’s 2nd Annual Chanel Girlfriend Party.   Vanessa Maddox has mastered the unique concept of networking with style. Vanessa Maddox closed the evening by saying, “We look forward to future events that enable us to Network.Share.Encourage.” If you are interested in becoming a member of TheGirlfriendGroup, please visit the site TheGirlfriendGroup (TGG).

Until Next Time…Make It Sexy,

~Kacie Wade