Bethesda Actually

It seems as if every Bethesdan is suffering from an extreme case of winter fatigue these days.  It’s that awkward time of year when you have no need for another cashmere sweater, but are still reluctant to splurge on a spring dress that will only languish in your closet during the chilly weeks ahead.  After scouring local boutiques and our favorite internet haunts, Essie says that these three transitional items will brighten up winter wear now while keeping you on trend in the coming season.

Genetic Denim – The Shane/Cigarette in Finn (or in Zinc) -$176

These jeans are dark enough for now but lightweight enough for later:

Now: Tucked into boots paired with long grandfather cardigan.
Later: Paired with espadrilles and James Perse T.

PinkMascara.com – Tolani Oblong Paisley Scarf – $105.00

Flowy and brightly patterned scarves are a year-round essential.

Now: Add a splash of color to your office neutrals by wrapping a floral scarf over a standard shift dress.
Later: Throw it on to dress-up a simple white tank and soft linen pants.

**For similar styles that won’t break the bank, we found super-cute scarves at Lou Lou boutique on Bethesda Lane for $28-38

Norstrom.com – Cara Couture Leather Wrap Bracelet – $28

Wrap bracelets are all the rage after the run-away success of Chan Luu wraparounds.  These wrapped cuffs come in seven color combinations.

Now: Layer colors to add zing to an all black outfit.
Later:  Pair with white pants and a bright blouse for a Memorial Day barbecue.

Everyone have a bright Friday!

Ciao,

Essie

Essie Says is a weekly fashion column written by a local style savant.

The latest blizzard may have blown away, but as Bethesdans return to their usual routines, we will be left to fend for ourselves against snow drifts, murky puddles, and frosty February air.  But who says we have to endure the remains of winter in grump and frump? And with Spring just around the corner, Bethesda Actually has pulled together some stylish pieces that will keep you fashionably warm now and will still prove stylish through the seasonal transition ahead.

Boots

First and foremost is footwear. Bethesda roads are not for the faint-soled, and durable shoes will shield you from the salty roads and ever-expanding puddles.  Let’s start off with a classic: a high pair of Hunter Boots. Popular with fly-fishers and fashionistas alike, these rubber boots will keep you dry in style.

Hunter Boots- Original Gloss Tall Boot – $115

**They come in a variety of colors from traditional black to granite gray to plum purple, all to suit your personal taste and wardrobe color wheels.

We’ve also found a great pair of wellies (for a steal) at the local South Moon Under in Montgomery Mall.

South Moon Under – Dirty Laundry Bucket Rain Boot – $54

**Essie owns a pair and can say that they have kept her feet warm and dry through the slush and snow. These boots can be worn with a pair of distressed denim shorts or a floral dress in the rainy seasons ahead.

Pants

While donning rubber boots, it’s necessary to wear something close-fitting and warm underneath. Wider mouthed shoes should always be balanced with slimmer fit bottoms. Trouser leggings are ideal to tuck into boots, and local boutiques have a wide variety of options available. The two listed below are available at Luna (7232 Woodmont Av., (301)-656-1111) or online at Nordstom.com.

Dylan George Trouser leggings – $196

Citizen for Humanity Trouser leggings – $185

**These leggings’ versatility makes them a worthwhile investment. Wear them with pumps and a boyfriend blazer for a night down the red line, or pair em’ with flats and a nautical Tee for a Saturday stroll along the Crescent Trail.

Coats

Now, there’s no point covering up your beautiful boot/jean combo with an old, battered coat. A full length comforter coat will help you resist the cold while warding off the late-winter style doldrums. And, with post-holiday sales currently in full swing, there’s no reason to break your budget!

Nordstrom – Gallery A-Line Quilted Down Coat – $74 (on sale!)

The North Face – Triple C Down Jacket (via Backcountry.com) – $270 (on sale!)

Nails

Finally, we couldn’t help but notice that quite a few trend-setting Bethesdans have been sporting graphite nail-polish of late. After personally testing a few shades, we have found three polishes that add pizzazz to pale winter-weary skin.

OPI – You Don’t Know Jacques – $8

You Don’t Know Jacques is a rich, dark gray with deep purple undertones.

Sally Hansen – Commander in Chic – $4

Commander in Chic is a long-lasting, subdued grey-mauve.

Chanel – Particuliere – $23

Particuliere is a lighter grey with a tiny touch of lavender.

Now get out there and face the wind and slush in style – see you on the Row!

Ciao,

Essie

Essie Says is a weekly fashion column written by a local style savant.