Rock Shic

#696 Ritz Carlton moments – a little bit of Luxe in Georgetown, DC

The lobby (aka "Living Room") of the Ritz Carlton Georgetown, which pretty much sets the tone for the entire hotel #RCmoments

View taken from a whimsical little organic garden (hotel brick smokestack just over on the horizon!)

Morning reads! Good thing I've got my well-traveled glasses case in hand (last featured here)

Library of Congress, [Capital] by Sarah Morris -- one of a series of paintings on display throughout the hotel

During one of my recent business trips to our nation’s capital, I had the pleasure of staying at the Ritz Carlton Georgetown, one of two Ritz Carlton properties in DC.  It was a pleasant deviation from my usual course of action, which is to stay right by the White House (The W Washington DC being my comfort go-to, last featured here).

When you’re on-the-go for business, it’s pretty easy to get sucked into the usual “business hotels.”  Not that I have any real complaints about the W (more on this another time).  I know that the usual gig is to just head home from work, order some room service, turn on the TV, and call it a day, and at times that’s exactly what I do in order to wake up for my 8am meeting the next day (cruelty at its best if you ask me). 

However, there is something nice to be said about being in the mix of things, which is precisely what staying in Georgetown felt like.  Traditionally, this wouldn’t be a popular choice for corporate folks, you see, since there are no metro stations nearby (though that’s what Uber is for, am I right?).  I rather come home from a long day of work to a vibrant neighborhood than a “shut-as-a-shut-thing-from-shut-degree-university” dead zone (to quote hubs) that is the area surrounding the White House.

The facilities of the Ritz Carlton Georgetown are, of course, both lovely and familiar – rendering a sense of zen and comfort right upon my arrival.  That’s the great thing about being at a Ritz Carlton, you always know what you’ll be getting in terms of amenities, service, and facilities.  I think the last Ritz property I stayed at was in Naples, Florida (featured here), which comes equally well-recommended by yours truly. 

One of the nice new twists about this particular Ritz Carlton is that it feels a bit more modern and fun, being that it’s inside of an old converted factory building, with lots of reclaimed materials, exposed red brick, and avant-garde modern art.  Unexpected?  Yes…  but an absolute delight nonetheless.   My one regret was that I couldn’t stay longer, as mamma had to hop on a jet back to New York, only to hop on another plane straight to Switzerland.  Ah well, something to look forward to the next time I visit DC! 

 

Structure of Thought #5 by Doug & Mike Starn prominently displayed at lobby area #beautiful #RCmoments

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#688 A few days in DC

Hello and happy Friday!  This week has been especially crazy, I’ve spent the past two days down in our nation’s capital… working hard and also finding some time for relaxation, retail therapy, and much needed catch-up with old friends. 

As often as I go to DC (I was just down there less than a month ago, see here), this was the first time that I stayed in Georgetown.  Wouldn’t you know, I absolutely LOVED it!!! I’ll follow-up with a separate write-up on Luxe Lodgings.

The energy by the harbor and in Georgetown write large was definitely one worth going back for.  Too often I stay right by the White House, which is almost too corporate for my taste, despite the iconic scenery (think along the lines of NYC’s mid-town after dark).  For more real-time updates of my adventures and family jaunts, you can find me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

All to say, the next time I return to DC, you can bet that I am DEFINITELY going back to Georgetown!

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#238 Celebrating Freedom at the Newseum

The City Wall of Berlin

As you know, last weekend I was in DC (seems like ages ago!).  Friday night, upon arrival, I tagged along with a girlfriend to a corporate function held at the Newseum on 555 Pennsylvania Avenue.  Would you judge me if I told you that, prior to the invitation, I hadn’t even heard of the Newseum…despite having lived in DC and being a frequent traveler to our nation’s capital for many years?

Oops.

A quick search on Tripadvisor informed me that this was third highest rankest spot amongst all attractions in DC! Third to only the Smithsonian and the National Gallery of Art.  Now my interest has truly been piqued!

Though a bit shagged, I dragged myself to the event regardless (sans hubby), and had a blast!  I always enjoy private events held at public forums (though I can’t say I’ve been to many of them).  The very concept of having the museum all to yourself (or at least shut to the general public) holds a certain level of appeal for me.  I can wander wherever my heart desires!!! Unrestricted access to museum’s interactive newsrooms! Plus catered popcorn and cupcakes?  My inner nerd was doing flips as we speak. 

My favorite part of the museum was the Pulitzer Prize Photography Gallery (enough said), a very well-done and dignified Journalist Memorial and the eight section wing of the original Berlin Wall, which, together with the three-story guard tower, stand as the largest reconstruction of the wall outside of Germany.  Of course, at the end of the day, the museum boasts a total of six floors, and I can’t claim to have carefully scrutinized each of them.

Attention readers!
As a perk for attending the event, I was given a handful of free admission tickets to the Newseum (normal ticket face value is $21.95 plus tax).  In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’m giving it away on a first-come, first-serve basis.  To get them, simply like RockShic on facebook, and contact me at [email protected].  Thanks!

#234 Graffiti Face on U Street

Top: Cheap Monday | Belt: Zara | Vest: Guess | Leggings: American Apparel | Collar Necklace: H&M | Watch: IceTime Watches | Boots: Trouvé | Nail Art: Salon Couture in Maryland

While in DC, I had the opportunity to meet a fellow fashion consultant in the U Street/14 Street Corridor (aka where I choose to hang in DC for some edgy style and modernist gems!).

I found the lovely Brandi Welch at a fabulous neighborhood contemporary store called Muleh, which sells a blend of modern furnishing, clothing and (my personal favorite) accessories!  Girlfriend really knows her designs and how to play with proportions, and reminds me of a younger, prettier version of Lil’ Kim (who, by the way, I was positively obsessed with all throughout college… I’ve even introduced hubby to the genius behind the album “Hard Core,” one of the prouder moments in our relationship). 

But we digress.                                                                                                      

What really sealed the deal for me were her intricately-painted and self-designed nail art.  It’s got it all!  Tribal, punk, sparkle… and even an ode to the late Keith Haring (how can you not fall in love?).  I have been really into experimental nail-decor lately, particularly of the pop-art variety (think: multi-colored nail colors on each hand, as I tried recently with black & gold).  Of course, our Brandi here took this concept to a whole other level, and I absolutely adore her for it! 

#233 Funk and Heritage at the Hotel Monaco, DC

Generally, when we travel through DC, hubby and I would opt for the no-frills business hotel (think: JW Marriott or the W Hotel).  However, this time around, I thought we’d switch it up and stay at one of the more modern, boutique lodgings available in this town.  Enter – the Monaco hotel – occupying what used to be DC’s first Post Office and the Tariff Office, and originally designed by the architect Robert Mills, better known for the Washington Monument.

Apart from living inside a piece of history (which is neat, particularly in this town!), the rooms are also quite funky and boasts some eclectic touches by the LA-based designer Cheryl Rowley.  The cheetah/zebra-printed bathrobes plus the goldfish in your room concept is extra cheeky and certainly lends much-needed style & character in a city that’s better known for its conservatism rather than its fashion-forwardness.  For all of these factors, I must say, I was quite impressed by the design-savvy hotel.

The best part?  The location is bar-none (right across from the lovely Smithsonian Portrait Gallery as well as the super-interactive Spy Museum), not to mention just a quick hop to Union Station (if you happen to be traveling via Amtrak like we were).  Also… happy hour every night!  How can you pass that up?  I’ll definitely have to add this hotel to my list the next time I’m traveling through DC. 

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Jacket: Hide by Zabari, last featured here | Sweater: Ann Taylor Loft | Shirt: Zara | Leggings: Gap | Boots: Guess | Earrings: Nico Lopez, at Candystore Collective (San Francisco) | Necklace: Urban Outfitters | Gold Geometry Ring: We See Stars | Sunglasses: Cole Haan | Bag: Patricia Field (last featured here)

It has certainly been a whirlwind weekend, and I am rather sad to see it come to a close.  I had an excellent time in DC, celebrating a girlfriend’s wedding shower, and reminiscing about old times with hubby. 

The weather couldn’t have been better (I actually over-packed, anticipating the wintry effects of New York), which inspired me to fall into some Autumn inspirations once again.  This particular Zara shirt has definitely served me well (excellent layering piece), and I am definitely digging the palette (which goes especially nicely with the background foliage, wouldn't you say?).  I’ve also been obsessed with geometric-shaped accessories lately, in case you couldn't tell!  I think it is just the perfect blend of modern minimalist and sophistication.  

Not going to lie -- I'm in love with my new nail color, "No Place like Chrome" by Essie!

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#230 Break me off some Cherry Blossoms

Dress: Ella Moss | Cardigan: Urban Outfitters | Scarf: From Afghanistan | Glasses: Tom Ford | Necklace: From Chicago

As I’m gearing up for yet another trip to DC this weekend, I couldn’t help but reminisce about my past DC experiences.  The city bodes a special place in my heart because this is where I first staked my place in the professional  world, and where my relationship with hubby had started to take root and blossom.  It is also a place where I’ve made countless work trips to over the years (a cursory tally totaled ten trips since 2007), not counting a sentimental, and post New Zealand engagement reunion back in 2006.

Yet, funnily enough, in all of the years that I’ve been to DC, I’ve only caught the famed cherry blossom season once (late March of last year). I remember it quite vividly, as I had just gotten back from the Dominican Republic for hubby’s birthday, and was whisked away with colleagues to our nation’s capital. After a full day of dreary meetings, I was jetlagged and barely coherent. Nevertheless, I snatched up my camera and went for a quick walk around the tidal basin. It was simply rejuvenating!  I recalled two things to be precise: (1) that my new iPhone took incredibly good photos, and (2) that the weather was awfully warm for March (perhaps I was still suffering from Santo Domingo fever?).

Whatever the case, it was certainly one of those treasured moments in life not to be taken for granted! Even today, these photos reign amongst some of my favorites of all time, with one of them set as a permanent wallpaper on my phone.  

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#233 Funk and Heritage at the Hotel Monaco

#20 Candy Colored Feat

Dress: James Perse | Jacket: Theory | Belt & Shoes: Anthropologie

It’s time for me to bid adieu to Washington (though I’m sure we’ll meet again).  For my last day of meetings, I decided to mix comfort with snazzy – striking a pose in my soft-cotton tee dress (which feels delightfully like pajamas!) and my favorite go-to blazer.

These pretty, multi-colored wedges keep me sprightly and balanced, making it that much easier to zip around town… and get home just in time for date night! Maybe afterwards, I can treat myself to some bubbles and cake.  

#17 Capital Essence

Maxi Dress: Amanda Uprichard | Sunglasses: Michael Kors | Shoes (unseen): BCBG | Bracelet: From Senegal | Bag: Gucci

Back to Washington D.C.!  This city always holds a special meaning for me and hubby, given that our budding romance began here.  Some say that the city can be too transient at times, but to me it also spells a different form of livelihood – where the political energy is so plentiful it makes you want to pick up the Sunday Times and turn on BBC news (imagine!!).   It is a city of cultivated spirit, legacy, and landmarks.

Over the weekend, we got a good lay of the land by foot, from Capitol Hill to Logan Circle to Dupont to Georgetown (phew!).  Did I mention – it also happened to be one of the hottest days of 2012?  Thank goodness for my vibrant little Amanda Uprichard number, which totally delivered the ultimate summer-appropriate silhouette.  My encounter with the New York based designer is largely attributed to my proximity to The Cutie Room, a wonderful little boutique on Rivington Street (right across from the well-established Freeman Restaurant, of Freeman Alley).  Apart from being locally made and sewn (which I like), her designs are also easy to wear, with the delightful capacity to be simultaneously modern and romantic. 

On the wrist… a timeless and very special silver bracelet gifted from a dear friend.  This is my current “wear-with-everything and travels well” accessory.  What’s more, it was brought from a recent trip to Senegal!  I love to accessorize with pieces associated with personal travels, as it makes the experience of wearing them that much more inspiring!!

Joining the club, my favorite neighborhood in DC is officially Logan Circle (seen above).  Seven years ago, when I first arrived to work at the World Bank, I don't think that the neighborhood was even remotely on my radar (admittedly… I could have also missed a ton of other stuff).  However, today, the area is abuzz with funky design boutiques, outdoor cafes, art galleries, and eclectic restaurants (score for DC!!).  I especially like the beautifully restored row houses by the tree-lined cobblestone streets, with their distinctly tranquil and tucked-away feel.  Truth be told, this Manhattanite is just not accustomed to so much green!! One thing is for sure, if hubby and I ever move back to DC, Logan Circle would definitely be my first pick for housing.  That is, if we don't get priced out by then....

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#16 DC-Bound

Dress: Ellen Tracy | Sweater: H&M | Bag: Ted Baker | Sunglasses: Michael Kors | Shoes: Soula (Brooklyn)

Interestingly enough, the last time I wore this Ellen Tracy dress was when I was in DC, which is poetic that I packed it today.  There’s nothing particularly fancy about this piece, except the experience behind the garment.  I had literally flown in that morning from Sao Paulo to JFK, and went straight onto another plane that took me to DC for meetings, only to realize that I had (shockingly) not packed properly for the remainder of my stay. 

Tragically for me, the nearest retail store to my hotel was Filene’s Basement (gasp shock horror!), but it actually worked out quite well in the end.  The thing about bargain shopping, for me at least, is that it’s never quite actually a “bargain,” as you end up emptying way more out of your bank account than you anticipated.  The reason being, everything seemed like such a fab deal that you basically lose control!  (I know I always have this affliction whenever I leave Century 21).

Be that as it may…. I still very much like the way this entire outfit came together (paired with a sweater I bought from, of all places, Mystic Connecticut).  Also, I find it very appropriate for a casual office/spring day, wouldn’t you say?  My belief still stands… mustard yellow remains to be the best hue on Asian skintones. 

 

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