Cinco de Mayo

Who doesn’t love Cinco de Mayo? It’s the day everyone can claim a little bit of Mexican heritage. And DC does the fifth of May right. You can choose from the best restaurants in DC, to celebrating “Trucko de Mayo,” to the running of the Chihuahuas on the Waterfront. If you’re in DC Saturday, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy!

Sundress Fest

Warm weather in DC means one thing – sundresses are back. And the Wonderland Ballroom’s annual Sundress Fest will delight men and women alike this Sunday. Don your favorite sundress and be treated to an afternoon of drinking, dancing, and a pig roast. Happy hour specials start at 4pm and last until close (2am if you’re keeping track). Donations are accepted and will benefit a Columbia Heights charity.

Take in Some Jazz on H Street

If you’ve been to H Street lately, you’ve probably been overrun by Hill staffers at all the popular spots. For something different check out Fever First Fridays at HR-57. You’ll jam to DJs playing classic soul, R&B, and hip-hop in a much more relaxed venue.

Culture Seeker

The National Portrait Gallery is kicks off National Asian Pacific American Heritage Month this Sunday with a family day. Don’t miss the music, dances, and crafts – and check out their exhibit “Asian American Portraits of Encounter” which runs through October 14.

For the Kid or Kid at Heart

The International Children’s Festival kicks off this Sunday with plenty for kid and parent alike. Kiddos can travel the world in less than a day as more than 20 embassies share their countries culture and heritage. Prepare for food, crafts, and performances that will tempt your five senses. Bonus – you’re in one location so head on over to the Ronald Reagan Building to experience this educational festival.

For the Music Lover

Eric Hutchinson, a Takoma Park native, will head back to the DC Metro area for a show at the 9:30 Club. His laid-back energy and sound are sure to please.

And this Friday, join 9:30 Club bartender/singer-songwriter Justin Jones at the Iota Club & Café as he celebrates the release of his new album “Fading Light.”

LOOKOUT!

If you’re out in DC next week, I’m giving you warning – look out. You’ll most likely become a part of the Kennedy Center’s latest festival – “Look Both Ways: Street Arts Across America.” The week-long festival kicks off this Sunday and ends with final street time May 12 at Yards Park.

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Cherry Blossom Viewing

With our wonderful, yet schizophrenic weather, spring has sprung very early this year. And the cherry blossoms are hitting peak blooms this weekend – just as the National Cherry Blossom Festival starts to celebrate its 100 years. So don’t miss your chance to see the beautiful blossoms that fill up the Tidal basin. Want to miss the crowds? Make an early morning sunrise trip or go after 5 p.m. You’ll be able to get some awesome pictures – just like these fabulous shots from DC’s Angela Pan.

For the Kid (Or Kid at heart) Cherry Blossom Style

Cherry blossoms are family friendly too. The Cherry Blossom Festival Family Days will keep the kid, or kid at heart busy. Explore the history and culture behind the Cherry Blossoms at the National building Museum. You’ll also be treated to drummers, the Washington Ballet, and even try your hand at the art of origami.

Cherry Blossom Dining

If you’re planning to catch the Cherry Blossoms, you’re likely to get a little hungry. The Tidal Basin is wonderful for viewing the beautiful blooms; however food is sometimes hard to come by. Good news for you – the Washington Post has compiled a great list of places to look for dining options.

Cocktail Time

Quill at the Jefferson is hosting a cocktail competition. $40 will get you samples of specialty drinks concocted by competing bartenders from 2 – 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Hunger Games Obsession

Yes, I said it. I have read the books, and am hooked. I will be attending the Friday midnight premiere with my 100 closest pre-teen friends. This blockbuster is sure to set records so don’t miss your chance. Local theaters in the DC area will all have midnight showings – including DC’s Avalon  Theatre – so get your ticket quick before they sell out!

For the Environmentalist

Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Environmental Film Festival in DC this weekend. More than 18o documentaries will be shown about various topics including war elephants, tsunamis, and radioactive wolves. Films will be shown throughout DC at the AFI Silver Theatre, the National Gallery of Art, and the National Museum of Natural History.

Captain Morgan Would Be Rolling Deep Here

If you’re a rum fan, you’ll enjoy the Eighth Annual Great Rum Punch Challenge at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum in Alexandria. You’ll enjoy rum punch from local restaurants and distilleries and can vote on your favorite. Plus you’ll be able to say you went to a bar that George Washington frequented, and Captain Morgan would definitely have gone. Tickets at $50 per person, or $100 to include admission and a special VIP pre-tasting of Bacardi’s special rums. Reservations are required – visit http://www.gadsbystavern.org.

Myth Busters Live

If you’ve seen the show, here’s your chance to see it live. The Myth Busters Tour will be making a stop in the DC area on Saturday. There are two showings – 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. – get your tickets here.

Mad Men Party
Are you a Donald Draper fan? Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce cordially invites you to attend the Season 5 premiere party Sunday and Lounge 201. With 60s costume contest, trivia and Mad men Swag, with Open Bar Packages! Check it out below and RSVP!

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The Standard Reopening

The Standard (Eating DC’s Review) opens this weekend after being closed for the winter. This beer garden on 14th Street is known for their BBQ, German beer and awesome patio location. Lucky for you, Friday looks to be the perfect night to head over after work to enjoy a newly re-worked menu of ribs and pork cheeks and a liter (or two) of beer. And don’t miss the homemade donuts – they’re to die for.

For the Kid (Or Kid At Heart)

Family Day at the Corcoran is space themed. For anyone who has ever dreamed of being an astronaut, this is your day to visit the Corcoran. Don’t miss face painting, Martian mask making, rocket launching, and space mobil-ing.

Up, Up, And Away!

AirBorne DC and Zip Zap Circus present Getting AirBorne! at the Atlas Performing Arts Center.  Feast your eyes on aerialists, modern dancers, and circus performers. If you enjoy AirBorne, don’t miss the last two weekends of Atlas’ “Intersections Festival” full of music, poetry, dancing and acrobats.

For the Texan (Or Those Who Love Texas)

If you’ve ever met someone from Texas, they will remind you that the state was an independent republic before it became a member of the Union. And every year, Texans celebrate March 2 as Texan Independence Day. To join in, head on over to Hill Country BBQ for some Shiner, awesome BBQ, and real Texas Country.

Chocolate Lover’s Delight

If you gave up chocolate for Lent, this is the weekend you’ll regret it – the Annual Chocolate Lovers Festival is back at Old Town Hall in Fairfax. Festival goers will be treated to cakes, fudge, brownies, ice cream, and any other form of chocolate you’ve ever dreamed of.

New Orleans Inspired Jazz and Food

Mardi Gras is over, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some New Orleans inspired Cajun food and jazz music. Head on over to Bayou on Penn Ave for the best Po Boy sandwiches in DC and live jazz on the weekends.

Pilgrimage

Annie Leibovitz’s photographs have graced more Vanity Fair covers than Brad Pitt or Meryl Streep. Pilgrimage, an exhibit at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, shows a different side of the acclaimed photographer – photographs of things that inspired her. From landscapes, to interiors of bedrooms, the 64 photos are sure to spark your curiosity.

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Calling all Klingons

The WSC Avant Board is a local theatre group which performs classic works in provocative ways. On March 4th they’ll take on “Shakespeare in Klingon.” Added bonus, they’re looking for up to four Klingons in an open casting call. Interested? Dress in your best Klingon and show up at Dupont Circle Saturday Feb. 25 at 1pm.

Freebies

It has been more than 50 years since Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus – an historic event in the Civil Rights movement. This weekend National Portrait Gallery patrons will get a chance to listen to Ms. Parks’ story and hear about the influence she had on the African American civil rights movement.

For the kid (or kid at heart)

For those of you who love zoos and aquariums, head on over to the National Aquarium for Reptile and Amphibian Day. Kids can learn about their favorite critters and see an animal feeding at 2pm. Also, stop by and say hello Jimmy and Teddy the baby sea turtles before they depart DC in the fall.

Sublime Suburbs

One of my favorite weekend activities is heading to Alexandria to check out the garage sales, boutiques and antique shops. For garages sales, check Craigslist for listings and go early. All the good stuff is gone by 9am. Shops like Mint Condition and Diva boutique have high end fashion labels for a 1/3 of the retail price, so plan on spending the day wandering the streets for all the good finds.

Night out in the city

Forget trivia, head on over to Rock & Roll hotel on H Street for an adult spelling bee. It’s free and sign-up starts at 6pm. Participants will compete against each other with word lists that include 4th – 9th grade words, dirty words, and a theme round. The MC may tell you to drink if you get an answer wrong, which happens often. So be prepared for a rockin’ good time.

Concerts

For the country fan, one of country’s biggest heartthrobs, Blake Shelton, will be performing at the George Mason Patriot Center.

Peter Yarrow is playing the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas. Fans of this legendary folk musician will be treated to an interactive show – including performances of Peter, Paul & Mary classics “Puff the Magic Dragon” and “Leaving on a Jet Plane.”

Ever heard Mexican Bluegrass or Irish mariachi? Here’s your chance. Rana Santacruz, a Mexican native from Brooklyn, NY, will perform at Artisphere in Arlington Feb. 25 highlighting Mexican American music and how it’s being redefined.

Oscars 2012

As the stars of Hollywood prepare for their big night, Washingtonians are preparing for watch parties to celebrate the best films of 2011. Top places to watch the Hollywood’s biggest night: The Hamilton, Nellie’s and Arlington Cinema Drafthouse. And if you still want to catch the nine movies up for Best Picture, the AMC Loews in Georgetown will be showing all of them.

Enjoy your weekend everyone!

Enjoy Cloture girl’s Weekend Review, check out other great articles by Cloture Girl!

Dear Cloture Girl,
I need to liven up my shoe collection. Pumps, flats, and good commute shoes. Any tips?
- Shoeless

Dear Shoeless

I always enjoy talking about footwear! And since the weather seems more like its May rather than February, I have seen multiple pairs of flip flops and Sperry’s. Say it with me (I’m talking to you interns and staff assistants) flips flops and Sperry’s are never work-appropriate! Even during recess. Here are some easy ways to liven up your boring basics and how to stay professional even with the latest trends. Shoe Fashion!

Cap-Toe Shoes

When I started working in DC, I wanted to look professional but still add a little of my own personal style to my basics. Accessories make any outfit, so shoes were the first way to add some personality. I love the cap-toe trend that has popped up in new ways this spring. Neon, color-block, studs – I love them all. The trick is to pair a bright color with a solid neutral. This adds that pop of color or a little bit of flare without going over the top.

1. Gilmore Contrast Teo Pumps ($120), 2. Bertie Contrast Toe Ballerinas ($116), 3. Corso Campo Pumps ($149), 4. Old Navy Cap-Toe Ballet Flats ($23), 5. Dolce Vita Studded Flat ($74), 6. Elizabeth Pointy Flats ($158)

Leopard Print Flats

A southern girl’s creed includes that you have at least one thing in every animal print – mostly paired with turquoise or a cross of some sort. While I’ve given up that mantra now that I’ve made DC my home, I have not given up my love for leopard print. And lucky me, it’s been a hot trend these days. Leopard flats are perfect for recess when you can be more casual, but still should look professional.

H&M Ballet Flats ($13), 2. Calvin Klein Bailey Flat ($50), 3. Leopard Tie-back Ballet Flats ($50), 4. Madewell Leopard Print Sidewalk Skimmer ($118)

For the Commute

For your commute, especially if you are walking or taking the metro, you definitely need something comfortable with lots of support for your feet. But we are way past the days of Melanie Griffith in Working Girl. Those bright white tennies need to stay in the 80s. You no longer have to sacrifice style for comfort. Toms has a good line of flats – and you have the added bonus of giving back to a child somewhere on the other side of the world. Can’t do without the tennis shoe look and support? Try one of these from Puma or Patagonia that offer tons of support.

1. Patagonia Maha ($90), 2.  DKNY Sophie ($75), 3. Toms Linen Ballet Flat ($74), 4. Toms Canvas Classic ($44), 5. Rudolf Dassler Rhythm Shine ($85)

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Tell me about the Cribline and your inspiration behind starting it.

I’ve lived in DC for 18 years now and when I bought my first house 15 years ago, I just dove into real estate. I would stumble upon these gems and wanted to learn more. At the time, DC was in shambles – ten percent of people were leaving the city and no one wanted to invest. I have a passion for this city and a passion for real estate, so I wanted to bring those two passions together to helping people feel comfortable investing in our city. Real estate can be intimidating. But if more people get a better grasp of the market and know how it works, they will be more likely to invest, which will help this city continue to thrive. We live in a beautiful city and it should be loved and invested in.

What can people expect from the Cribline?

Eric Wohlschlegel, the man behind The Cribline

We’re here to help with any question you have about real estate whether it’s trading up or buying a home for the first time. We also highlight homes in the area in the House of the Week section on the website. You’ll find homes from around DC with a cost analysis so you can see the numbers for yourself. Have more questions? Go to the Ask Eric section for some advice.

What is your favorite neighborhood?

I live on the Hill, but I’m not biased. DC has so many great neighborhoods that have popped up over the last few years, each with its own character.

What are the “up and coming” neighborhoods home buyers should check out?

You can find some great deals in Ledroit Park, Shaw, Petworth, Bloomingdale and Brookland.

Favorite real estate websites?

Redfin, Zillow, Trulia, Sawbuck and Realtor.com. If you’re a renter, use Craigslist.

Speaking of renters, any advice for those of us who cannot afford a house just yet?

Have a repore with your landlord or management company and don’t be afraid to ask questions. It can be quite competitive finding the perfect apartment, so for open houses – go early! And bring your manners; they go a long way in establishing that relationship with your landlord. And close to the metro is always good.

Okay, I’ve just moved to DC and need some furniture to deck my new place out. Where should I go?

If you’re in your 20s or 30s, I’d send you on the trek to Ikea, or check out Overstock.com. 30s or 40s, go for the sales at Restoration hardware, Crate & Barrel and Pottery Barn. There is a great furniture shop off U Street called Goodwood where you can find some great pieces and some great deals.

Best advice for a home buyer?

Start taking the first steps – call a mortgage broker and get pre-qualified for a loan. You need to learn the math: what you’ll need for a down payment, what’s tax exempt and what you’ll end up paying each month. Most people are surprised that when you really take a look at houses in DC, it’s sometimes cheaper than renting – just be sure you can actually afford the house.

Since you’ve lived in DC a while, you must know all the great spots to take visitors when they’re in town. What do you plan?

A night tour of the monuments – they’re better at night. Art and Soul is good for cocktails, Bistro Cacao for dinner. Both have good food, wine and a great atmosphere. The Mandarin Oriental bar has great music, and 1789 is a classic Georgetown staple.

Be sure to follow the Cribline on Twitter to get the latest updates.

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Dear Cloture Girl,

I recently accepted a position in the office of my Congressman and I’m wrapping up my first week in DC. Any advice for a new Hill staffer/DC resident?

- DC Newbie

Dear DC Newbie,

Congrats! This brings back memories of my first day on the Hill – that and the fact that I saw a fresh new crop of new staffers being ushered around the buildings the last weeks. It seems like just yesterday I was being shown where to eat, what elevators you are not allowed to take, and getting that first awful ID card picture. I also remember the immense pride I felt the first time I ever showed that silly card to the security guards on the subway as I showed my parents around the Capitol for the first time. My time in DC has been full of growth, enlightenment and a share of disappointments. There are a few things I’ve learned that I hope will help you in your new journey in our fabulous city. Here are my 10 Ways to Survive DC.

Don’t go to Union Station for Lunch During the Months of May – August

You will be enjoying lunch with your coworker, and the thousands of middle and high school students who are in DC for their school trips. Trust me, stay away. Instead, grab lunch in the Senate or House buildings and head out to one of the many park benches in the parks around the Capitol. Try to find a tree to get some shade – summer can be a scorcher.

Always Carry an Umbrella

It can be one of the travel sized umbrellas, but keep one in your desk or in your bag. In the fall and spring, when DC is prone to random down pours, you’ll thank me for telling you this.

Take Weekend Adventures

The Beltway can be very insulating, so you will want to get out of the city for a little while. Thanks to public transportation, the East Coast is your playground and weekend adventures with your friends can start merely an hour away. Fun options: rafting in West Virginia, Virginia Wine Country, New York City via Bolt Bus (tickets can be as low as $18 one-way!), historical battle ground sites in Pennsylvania or West Virginia, or head to the beach to enjoy some fun in the sun or camping in the fall! Check Living Social Adventures. There’s always something fun there too. If you don’t have a car, take a ZipCar!

Experience new things. Go to Punkin Chunkin!

If you’ve ever watched Myth Busters, you will know what I’m talking about. But Punkin Chunkin is not just about watching 10 pound pumpkins being launched thousands of feet into a mowed-down corn field. In truth, it’s easier to see the pumpkin launchings via the Discovery Channel from your couch. Punkin Chunkin quite the experience – one that I think every DC native should have. It is a corn field in the middle of Delaware where Camo and Carhardt’s are more fashionable than your average business attire, so be prepared to experience every red-neck on the East Coast wandering around. For a southerner, it may give you the feeling of back home.

Be Active on Twitter

Since the 2008 election, Twitter has exploded. Everyone is on Twitter – even God and Queen Elizabeth. So if you are not already, become an active Twitter user. I was an early adopter and now sometimes learn breaking news and information first on Twitter. Just yesterday I learned it was snowing in DC via Twitter before I saw snow in person. But Twitter is not only good for breaking news, but for very important things like what to wear, where the best food trucks are, and you could even find a job. So start following everyone – you can start with @ClotureClub or me, @ClotureGirl! And start having conversations with fellow DC folks.

Warning – Do not abuse twitter. You may lose your job.

It Takes at Least 30 Minutes to Get Anywhere

Our public transportation is awesome and awesomely bad. When it’s reliable, the Metro is amazing. And when there is construction and single-tracking, it’s a real pain. So be prepared to take at least 30 minutes, and more likely closer to an hour if you want to venture the city. If you have a car, I-395 and I495 are busy all the time and usually at 2pm when you’re on your way to Ikea thinking “oh there won’t be any traffic!” So just be prepared, flexible, and don’t let it get to you. To help you out, download the Metro app and check out Next Bus so you know how long you have to wait.

Craigslist is Your Friend

I have found apartments, furniture, lamps, and bicycles on Craigslist. It is your friend. Look often. Go to Ikea, or Pottery Barn and find what you want then find it on Craigslist. You can usually get a pretty good deal, and since DC is such a transient city, people are always selling their gently used items. A few guidelines: create a separate email account so you aren’t giving out your personal email to save you from some creepers, always ask for photos, and if you go to check out an item always take a friend – or at least tell someone where you are going.

Brunch is A Must

Brunch in DC is not only a way to mob down on some good eats, but it’s a total social scene. There are some fabulous places so check the local blogs (check out Bitches Who Brunch) for all the good places. And make sure you make a reservation.

Receptions = Food

2010 Stella’s Reception. For the win!

Let’s be honest – Hill staffers or Interns don’t get paid much. And by legal definition, poor. Embrace it. And head on over to any reception you can get into. You will not only get free food and drinks, but it’s one of the only ways you can afford rent, food and have any money left in your bank account. The holidays are chalk full of receptions so check back here, ClotureClub.com or Sign-Up for our Newsletter and we will guide you through all the events and receptions you can’t miss. An added bonus: you will usually run into politicians, news media, maybe even your next boss. So while it is a way to survive, always bring business cards and be professional – you never know who might be there.

Celebrate Your Year-Anniversary

Making it in DC is an accomplishment so when you’ve made it to your one-year anniversary of being in the city, celebrate! The first year can be tough. You’ve moved to the city, taken a low-paying job and are over-worked, you’ve been yelled at by your boss, told you’re an idiot by constituents, hung up on more than a few people, gotten homesick, had a bad relationship (or two), learned how to navigate the metro, learned how to navigate when the metro is single tracking, gone to a few receptions and maybe had a little too much to drink, met some famous folks, got lost in the Capitol, and had one of the best experiences of your life. Fun option: buy a bottle of wine your first day on the job. It can be cheap – I know you’re on a budget. Keep it and a year later, pop the cork. It’s an excuse to have a celebration with friends (who doesn’t love a reason to celebrate?) and it’s a fun way to toast to surviving your first year in DC.

I hope this makes your life much easier here in the Nation’s Capitol. If you have questions let me know. I’m here for ya! Just ask.

XoXo

- Cloture Girl

Enjoy Cloture Girl’s article on 10 ways to Survive DC, check out her other articles.

Cloture Girl got a preview of acclaimed Irish choreographer Fearghus O Conchuir’s short film, Mo Mhorchoir Fein, which will be showing this Saturday at the Capitol Irish Film Festival. They discussed his film, his appreciation for Glee and the West Wing, and his recommendations on seeing the best part of Ireland.

Tell our readers about your film and what inspired it?
It’s pronounced “mo voor cur feign.” It’s Latin for “my mistake” or “my most grievous fault.” It’s that part of the Catholic Church service – that prayer.  I actually began my career as an altar boy. You have this physical action, these moves you have to get right.

Fearghus O'Conchuir

Does Catholicism inspire most of your work?
This is actually the first time I’ve addressed religion in my work and I wanted to explore that. I wanted to express through dance what maybe we haven’t said. I’m usually inspired by bodies and buildings and how we fit into these spaces. By the people, the dancers, I work with. I’m not an old-fashioned choreographer where you tell the dancers exactly what to do. I give them tasks, ask them to help and interact with me. I’ve also been inspired by my travels. I’ve gone all over the world and have studied the cultures, the languages. It gives me a different perspective and helps me to understand these other cultures I’ve been exposed to.

Why the jump into film from choreography?
We actually use film a lot in choreography so we’re very used to it. It’s a tool to remember steps and movements. Film is also an opportunity to bring contemporary dance to a national audience. My film “Match” has been widely successful – it aired right after CSI: Miami on Primetime Irish TV so it was exposed to a huge audience. It’s a duet with two men and we filmed in Croke Park, Ireland’s stadium. I wanted to take them on a journey in a place that’s very familiar and relatable. There was actually a live piece tour that came out of the film and I’ve been able to travel all over the world exposing new audiences to my work.

What’s better, film or live performance?
Live performance will always be close to my heart. There’s something magical when you’re there with the audience – they give back and make the performance happen. But with live performances, you can have many takes on it. With film, you can direct the audience to exactly what you want them to see.

What can the audience expect at the screening of your film at the festival this weekend?
I’m really excited to be involved with the festival – many thanks to Solas Nua for giving us all this opportunity. The most important part to me is having conversations about my work with the audience. To learn I need to hear what they are thinking, their feedback. What’s great about this festival is that it is a brand new audience, a brand new culture. Even though Ireland and America have many commonalities, I’m excited to have that conversation with people – so bring on your questions!

Anything you are looking forward to during your trip to D.C.?
This is my first time traveling to D.C. It’s iconic – the American seat of power. I immediately think of the West Wing, the monuments. I’m hoping to see the museums and the monuments to appreciate the design. I’ve also been looking up all the good restaurant recommendations on Cloture Club. I’m hoping this is the start and I have the opportunity to come back.

Are you a fan of Glee now that your fellow Irishman, Damian McGinty has a starring role?
I am! I haven’t seen much of his performances on the show, but I did follow the Glee Project where he was selected. What I really appreciate about the show is that it is about the performances. And it’s about making space for all kinds of people and really celebrating the parts in all of us that don’t quite fit in. I really appreciate that there is a space in prime time in America for it.

Okay, President Obama and Michelle are planning a trip to Ireland. What suggestions do you give them?
Well they’ve been before – he has distant relatives in Dublin. No American president cannot have a relative in Ireland. But I’d suggest they (or anyone else) visit the countryside. I grew up there and it’s the most beautiful place in the country. So visit the country and visit the shore.

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Cloture Girl

I am so glad that it’s finally starting to feel like fall. With the weather cooling off, how do I look professional while still being able to indulge in the latest fall trends?

- Fall Fan

Fall is definitely my favorite season as well – and there’s nothing better than fall on the East Coast! You can indulge in your favorite boots, scarves, plaids, vests, sweater dresses and moccasins. Here are a few of my tips for a fabulous Fall Fashion and Looking Professional wardrobe.

Don’t Be Afraid of Colors

 Yes this is DC and black rules our everyday fashion. But fall is the time to wear your favorite colors without fear. Oranges and purples and greens oh my! These skirts add in that pop of color that will make you stand out in a good way. This orange skirt from J.CREW is hanging in my closet just waiting for recess to be over.

The Cape

 One of my favorite fall trends is the cape like this adorable one from J.CREW styled on DC’s own fashion blogger Lacey from A Lacey Perspective. Camel and black is always a fabulously chic combo and that pop of pink and leopard print add a fun edge. It will keep you warm and stylish during your morning commute or for an early afternoon brunch.

Mixing prints and Stripes

Growing up in the south, I have always been under the preppy and classic dress code; reminiscent of Jaime King’s style on the new CW show “Hart of Dixie” (It’s my guilty pleasure this season!). For this reason, I have mostly been against mixing patterns, ever. But this fall I am digging mixing it up with a little bit of stripes and a little bit of floral. Something about it is so put-together and edgy. Just be sure that the pattern doesn’t overpower the look. You don’t want to look like you’re twelve and playing dress up in your mom’s clothes again. For the look on the left try out this American Apparel dress and this school boy blazer from J.CREW.

Leopard Print

 I’m a sucker for anything leopard print and I have been mixing it up with prints and stripes and textures as well. Try it out for your brunch routine then head to Georgetown for a little shopping at the new Loft location – trust me, you won’t regret it!

Boots and Tights

I adore fall for the boots, and I love the high-heeled bootie trend. I’ve bought three pairs in the last few weeks – I think I have a problem. If you aren’t into the sky-high heels, try something like this black three-quarter sleeved dress. Add in some fun accessories like these gray-brown boots and a snakeskin clutch, and you have the perfect outfit for the crisp fall air. Not sure how to wear your boots with your favorite pair of tights? Check out these great tips from Belle at Capitol Hill Style.

Sparkle

Sparkle is not just for us beauty pageant alums anymore. Pairing a skirt with some sparkle with a cashmere sweater, tights and boots is perfect for a fun fall date night outfit. If you aren’t sold on the skirt, try out a shirt like this one from Alice and Olivia. It’ll ease you into a sparkly look without feeling too gaudy.

Camel and Gold

Camel and gold looks good on anyone. You’ll look chic and be warm – a win, win for everyone.
- Happy fall y’all!

xoxo Cloture Girl

Got a question? Ask CG!

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This week I sat down with Kelly Ann Collins – the fabulous founder of Glittarazzi.com. She’s a self-proclaimed start-up addict who jumped ship from West Virginia for New York to work for USA Today before settling into the blog life here in DC.

• For anyone who hasn’t visited the Website, tell them who you are and what they’ll get by stopping by Glittarazzi.

   
  Glittarazzi.com is a fun pop culture and pop politics blog. We are a national publication based in Washington, D.C. We feature the latest news trends — as well as what’s hot in our Nation’s Capital. We know when celebrities are in town, and we feature the fun ones. We also watch the politicians like a hawk — neither fashion faux pas nor stupid comment gets by us!
  
  Celebrities and their camera phones inspired me. I mean, I take pics of my friends and myself all the time, but I was intrigued by the fact that the glitterati among us can’t stop paparazzing themselves, either — despite the fact that they are on camera all day. And so, Glittarazzi was born. Glitterati + Paparazzi = Glittarazzi.

• Glittarazzi has grown a lot since you started. What has been the biggest change for y’all?

   

  The biggest change for me is going from a one-gal blog to a 17-person blog. I had a great following (around 60,000), but now, with the award-winning team we have, we have 1.5 million readers regularly coming to the site. It definitely takes a village. Fortunately, my village is full of fab people!

• Finish this sentence: The best surprise about starting a website/blog has been ____________.

   

  The best surprise about starting a website/blog has been all the stalkers. (We get strange gifts, strange visitors and strangers calling all the time.)

• Craziest comment heard in the Glittarazzi office?
  
   

  “Uh, P. Diddy’s on the phone.”
  

• Other than Glittarazzi, what else should be mandatory reading for anyone inside the Beltway? (Besides ClotureClub.com of course!)
  
   
  I like Eater, which Chef Spike Mendelsohn turned me onto. I’ve never been a foodie, in fact, I have to remind myself to eat, but I definitely like that website. I also still love The Washington Post’s Reliable Source, after all these years.

• Speaking of glitter: thoughts on the glitter nail polish trend?
  
   
  My toes are always painted with OPI Nail Lacquer. Shade: Glitzerland. So, of course, I approve! I also love the glittery Violent Lips trend!

• Who are you following right now on Twitter?
  
   
  I try to follow everyone — and their mother. Plus, my Dad. But he never tweets. One funny one I recently found is @WorkingBarbie. It reminds me of @whitegrlproblem — but, it surrounds working girl issues.

• You’re at work and a co-worker invites you to be the plus one for a swanky reception. How do you turn day-wear into night-wear?
  
   
  Big, fun accessories; more makeup; and big, hot hair. (It doesn’t hurt to keep a pair of high heels in the office desk drawer, either, for fashion emergencies like this!)

• DC style is conservative – especially on the Hill. What are some tips for jazzing up an outfit so you don’t feel stuck in the pant suit parade?
  
   
  I really wish people on the Hill would be a bit more adventurous. I’d encourage ladies to flaunt the footwear. Mandy Moore is in town this week and the Christian Louboutin booties she wore to the Newseum yesterday were to die for. More Christian Louboutin on the Hill would make my day. Of course, that’s just not practical in this economy, so my fall suggestion would be either over-the-knee boots or something fun and colorful. Also, big, chunky necklaces are a brilliant way to bring some edge to a suit.
  
  For men, I suggest that they follow in the footsteps of Veep Joe Biden and U.S. Chief Technology Officer Aneesh Chopra when it comes to ties. I met Aneesh when I was invited to the White House Tweetup Briefing last month. His tie rocked. Guys can also rock some fashion with cool socks, swanky shoes and glasses (we’re all loving White House Press Secretary Jay Carney’s new spectacles).

• Michelle Obama and Jill Biden call and ask for a recommendation for a girl’s night out. What do you suggest?
  
   
  Pre-dinner drinks in the W Hotel’s POV Lounge (great martinis and a fab view of the Washington Monument); dinner at either Buddha Bar or Masa 14 (Masa has a DJ spinning through dinner on weekends); and then either chilling out at Lost Society (new 14th Street hotspot) or dancing at Opera Lounge (the hottest new dance spot in D.C.).
  

• Worst pick-up line ever used on you at a bar?
  
   
  “Want to take a ride in my limo?” I can’t say this didn’t work, but I’ll never do that again.

• Who is your biggest mentor?
  
   
  My grandmother. She was an entrepreneur, too — banking and industrial. I think I get a lot of my mad biz skills from her.

• Bonus Question: Who are you voting for in the Republican Presidential Primary?
  
   
  Easy. The one that wears glitter on Election Day.

Thanks Kelly for the opportunity to interview you!

You can find Glittarazzi.com on @Glittarazzi and follow Kelly Ann Collins on Twitter @KellyAnnCollins for more on what’s hot in our nation’s capital.

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