How do you get the 'DC look'?

[Anonymous]

Recently moved from NYC and I'm not getting DC style at all. It's some sort of odd cross between what I'd wear to South Hampton and what I'd wear on a daily basis. I just can't figure out how to mix what seems, in my mind, to be two completely different looks. For me, it's like trying to figure out how to wear pajamas to work. Can a native Washingtonian help me with this? I hate looking like a tourist and I don't do jeans.

[Anonymous]

Where do you live in the metro area? For real, it makes a difference.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Where do you live in the metro area? For real, it makes a difference.

This is true - and where you work.

[Anonymous]

Are you for real? Just dress how you already dress! I don't think there is any such thing as a DC look. I'm from NYC and have lived here for the past 14 years, and I just dress as stylishly as I can afford, without paying attention to geography. I don't even understand what you mean by a mix of southhampton and whatever.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Are you for real? Just dress how you already dress! I don't think there is any such thing as a DC look. I'm from NYC and have lived here for the past 14 years, and I just dress as stylishly as I can afford, without paying attention to geography. I don't even understand what you mean by a mix of southhampton and whatever.

I agree. I'm 33, so I have my own style already. I might tweak it slightly depending on the place and the occasion, but it's still ME.

[Anonymous]

Yeah, I tend to agree with PP. I will also add, you don't want the "DC look." When I think quintessential DC, ill-fitting pantsuits and bad brown leather shoes come to mind. Rock on with you NYC style and make everyone jealous that they don't dress like you!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Are you for real? Just dress how you already dress! I don't think there is any such thing as a DC look. I'm from NYC and have lived here for the past 14 years, and I just dress as stylishly as I can afford, without paying attention to geography. I don't even understand what you mean by a mix of southhampton and whatever.

I think she's referring to the white jeans, bright tunics, ballet flats, Barbour jackets, etc., that I see in my neighborhood. I'm just guessing. It's sort of preppy and casual (not urban at all) and I think it's hard to pull off. Usually seen getting out of a silver Lexus or Volvo or Mercedes SUV. Pale blonde hair pulled back into a ponytail is sort of typical! Very little make-up. Usually followed by three beautiful tow-headed children in Vineyard Vine striped polo shirts.

[Anonymous]

The only "DC Look" that I see a lot and HATE is the MILF/Cougar wannabes. Honestly, you're 45 freakin' years old, I don't want to see your thong, and you wear too much makeup, your hair is brittle and dry, teetering around Georgetown in your 4" wedgies + skinny jeans and big purse chasing after your toddler? ugh!

[Anonymous]

OP, here.

I live in a very nice neighborhood NW DC. I'm hesitant to mention exactly where because I don't want this to turn into a class or money discussion. I really do appreciate the PP who said I should rock my NYC style. I've tried, but I end up feeling really over dressed alot of the time. I'm not going for the stereotypical Hill wonk look either.

To the other PPs, I do have my own style. Have had one for quite some time now. There is something to be said for dressing appropriately, though. And to the PP who doesn't understand the South Hampton reference, my question was definitely not directed at you specifically.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Yeah, I tend to agree with PP. I will also add, you don't want the "DC look."

this

[Anonymous]

Stick your nose in the air and you'll fit in just fine, no matter what you are wearing.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Are you for real? Just dress how you already dress! I don't think there is any such thing as a DC look. I'm from NYC and have lived here for the past 14 years, and I just dress as stylishly as I can afford, without paying attention to geography. I don't even understand what you mean by a mix of southhampton and whatever.

I think she's referring to the white jeans, bright tunics, ballet flats, Barbour jackets, etc., that I see in my neighborhood. I'm just guessing. It's sort of preppy and casual (not urban at all) and I think it's hard to pull off. Usually seen getting out of a silver Lexus or Volvo or Mercedes SUV. Pale blonde hair pulled back into a ponytail is sort of typical! Very little make-up. Usually followed by three beautiful tow-headed children in Vineyard Vine striped polo shirts.

Ugh! I know. Someone needs to kill that look ASAP.

[Anonymous]

Can't you keep your style and just dial it back a notch?

[Anonymous]

"I think she's referring to the white jeans, bright tunics, ballet flats, Barbour jackets, etc., that I see in my neighborhood. I'm just guessing. It's sort of preppy and casual (not urban at all) and I think it's hard to pull off. Usually seen getting out of a silver Lexus or Volvo or Mercedes SUV. Pale blonde hair pulled back into a ponytail is sort of typical! Very little make-up. Usually followed by three beautiful tow-headed children in Vineyard Vine striped polo shirts."

That's close to what I mean. It's not a look I want to duplicate. And I know all about DC's blonde obsession. I'm not blonde, never was, never will be.

And what do they wear in the winter?

PP mentioned women showing thongs. Really? I've seen that in NY, but not here so far. Another look I'd never do.

[Anonymous]

I don't think there is one DC look.

Do you work or are you a SAHM?

I agree with previous posters that it sounds like you should just dial your current style down a notch so you are not the most dressed up in the room. Overdressing is a fashion crime no matter where you are!