Give in Style: Shield & Honor Jewelry Gives Thanks for Those Who've Served

Not too long ago, my mommy sent a text to my sister, my brother, and me:

"Just got a message from [my mommy's cousin] that Uncle Bill passed away on Saturday night. 91 years."

We lost another one.

Uncle Bill was one of the dwindling servicemen and women who defended not just American, but other nations', soil, in World War II. A medal-winning college gymnast, he left school and ended up on Normandy's beaches. As his obituary reads, "after 92 days of near continuous combat," German forces captured him. Like so many others, he spent his 21st birthday not just in the armed forces, but as a prisoner of war.

Photo credit: University Archives, Special Collections Library, University Libraries, Pennsylvania State University.

Eventually, even as his family thought him dead, Uncle Bill and eleven other soldiers escaped the camp near Poland, ended up in Odessa, and made their way home. The rest of his life, he continued to serve those around him: as a teammate (1948 London Olympics), a professor, a coach, an advocate, a father, a husband, and a brother.

We're blessed, in our family, to have another World War II veteran. At 92, Uncle Toby (Uncle Bill's oldest sister's husband), was part of Patton's Army. His stories are still there for us, and my mother and stepdad visit with him weekly. H and some friends have gone to visit him, as have we. There's not much we can do at this point to thank him for his service, but we can be there. We can send pictures, and we can make sure he has what he needs.

And then, the other day, a friend sent me a link. She sent it to me because she knows I love fashion - and unique fashion, especially. She was already addicted to both the style and the story - and the salute - jewelry maker Shield & Honor weaves into every piece.

"No legacy, no matter how small, should go untold."

I bought two. I'll wear them daily, I think, because remembering the promise our nation and its heroes hold is so very important.

Rimfire Chain Studs

Prime Lariat Onyx

Give in Style: Fashion of Goodwill Really Means "Let's Get to Work"

I'm kinda funny about charities. I don't like to be pushed or pigeonholed into giving my time or my money. When those United Way campaigns kick off with the email from HR or the office "decides" to do a walk, I dig my heels in and don't participate.

A big part of it is that I want to contribute to something that's going to help someone move forward in their lives. Literacy programs, mentoring programs, and job training programs...that's where you'll find me "spending."

Goodwill Industries does just that. Goodwill's whole purpose is to help someone help themselves and move forward. Sure, they have those stores where we can find great thrifty deals and fashion steals. They also partner with major corporations to give whole groups of people a new chance in a new career.

Before I get to the Fashion of Goodwill runway show and pop-up shop (and they were good), I need to tell you about Goodwill of Greater Washington and Marriott Corporation. Marriott may be a worldwide company, but they're also a local, family-owned business (root beer, anyone?). Their roots are in DC, and they figured out a way to work with Events DC and Goodwill to create a job training program that will give DC-area folks the chance they need. This program, my friends, is exactly the type of "charity" I can get behind: people helping people help themselves.

Goodwill of Greater Washington CEO Catherine Meloy. Oh. btw, she's the one responsible for me scoring that amazing silk caftan at the last Fashion of Goodwill pop-up. Remember?

When all the speeches were finished and plaques had changed hands (stop...shake...turn...smile for the camera), after the video played showing program graduates in their new jobs, there was one last moment. The graduates of the Washington Marriott Marquis Job Training Program came out on stage. Some of them were grinning, some of them smiling tentatively, unsure about the attention - and all were dressed to the nines. These are people who have jobs they didn't have before - because they worked hard to get them.

Next time you think about giving to charity, think carefully: how will this change something for someone today? Tomorrow? How will they move forward because I chose to give?

And now, to get cheeky, I chose to give by scoring $54 worth of thrift store fashion. The runway show was fun. Styling off-the-rack thrift clothes is challenging, and there were some savvy interpretations of workwear (and some crazy ones). Never mind the music. Prince? Michael Jackson? Blondie? Yes, please. (Hey, Goodwill! This girl wouldn't mind a copy of the soundtrack!)

A gloriously 1980s sequined gown? Um...please tell my bank account it's already gone in the online auction.

But the real fun (other than catching up with stylish friends I never get to see) was scouring the racks at the pop-up shop. Alison of Wardrobe Oxygen, Deb of Real Girl Runway, and I had similar fun earlier this year - and we recreated it. Everyone found a fun score - the real point of thrifting, in my book, is to find things you wouldn't buy otherwise, vice stocking up on basics - and shoppers were leaving with full bags.

From an Oklahoman furrier. Furs are one of my favorite thrift store goals...ahem...finds. Part of me loves just wondering who wore them and where.

I was so tempted by this Dalmatian print blouse. Over-the-top prints are so now, and because it was a whole $7? When "now" becomes "so yesterday," I'm not crying in my milk.

Toldya furs are one of my favorite thrift store finds. There were TWO of these stoles. I found one left. Mink. Stoles. Great condition, and I threw it on as soon as I'd bought it. $24.98. The leather tote bag? Lerkia-Lee of Modage Styles was taking it back. I nabbed it, and have carried it since. $24.98. Also, my dress? Vintage out of a pink garage in New Orleans. Not kidding. Maybe it was $10.

The results, next day. I worked from home, so donned a Hanes (yup) sweatshirt, my new amber-toned lucite-ish necklace ($3.98), and threw my crap in my new tote...to pick up the Beans from school. Now that is Mama Style! (Ignore the mess behind me)

Shop & Give in Style: Planning for the District Sample Sale (or any charity warehouse sale)

Tomorrow's the big day. Fashionistas will line up around the block, then make the Filene's Running of the Brides look like a cake walk. Emily, KC, and another friend or two will elbow our way into The First Hour.

In getting ready, I looked back at all of my DSS posts from years past. Some years I'm solo (love the focused Solo Shop), some with friends (hel-LO Scarlet - winner of the very first DSS VIP ticket giveaway, travelinjames, and Chelsea). Some years I run into other friends, some not.

I, personally, go to shop. I know it's a lovely party. The DJ is always fab, the bites and sips tasty and local (Dolci Gelati is my personal favorite, by far). But that's all at The End. After The Shopping.

This year, I'm not quite as focused, but I wouldn't mind snagging a pair of trouser jeans, some more shoes (can never have enough. ever.), and a non-black cocktail dress. (I have a charity reception Friday night, and no idea what to wear. Style Dilemma may be coming later in the week to help myself out.) Emily's looking for a summer flowery dress to "grunge down" and go all Courtney on us. Carrie's looking for some shoes. KC hasn't fessed up her prey yet.

You have one night (and work day on which you will procrastinate your work and think only of shopping) to prepare. Here's my DSS prep advice from last year, with a few tweaks.

1) Double-check the list of stores. Some of my favorites won't be there this year, but I always find amazing accessories at Queen Bee. Last year, I scored unusual and deeply discounted pieces (a silver lambskin vest, a faux reptile sheath, and a Vivienne Westwood Anglomania tunic/dress) at Cupcake, Emily Grace, and Muleh.

2) Decide whether you're going to look for certain items, or shop with relative abandon. The variety of shops is broad enough that I can probably identify a couple of key pieces, and target my search. Or I can just keep my eyes out for things that catch my eye, and go for it. The latter, obviously, is a bit more dangerous.

3) Map it out. There isn’t a map online yet, but there will be in line (or at least there has been in previous years). So once you've finalized your strategy (and yes, it is actually important to have a strategy if you’re spending the $100 to shop the VIP hour vice socialize), figure out where to go first, and figure out especially where to go before the hoards hit. My first stop, I think, will be to see my online friends at Zoe Boutique!

4) Limit. I suppose this should have been the first item. It’s key to have a budgeted amount to spend.This is a great place to get deals on high quality pieces, but most of us can’t spend with abandon. So set one.

5) Check out the boutiques online. You don't need a list or anything that fancy, but have look at a couple of your likely stops and identify a couple of things you'll look for in your rounds. Most of the stores treat the DSS like an extended clearance sale, so if you look at the clearance or sale areas of their websites, you’re more likely to see those pieces on the racks at the DSS. A few places also bring fall or winter pieces, but those are either at full price or at only a small discount. Still, if you love a piece, why not?

6) Lastly, but also probably first, if you’re seriously shopping, like I will be, forgo the drinks and appetizers until after you’re done shopping. You might have to wait a little longer before you snag a cocktail, but you won’t have to juggle your champers whilst balancing on one foot putting the other into the proverbial glass slipper.

See you on the shop floor!

Follow us in our adventures tomorrow with the #DistrictSample hashtag on twitter and Instagram!

Shop and Give in Style: District Sample Sale VIP Ticket Giveaway

I have One Single VIP District Sample Sale ticket. And I'm giving it away.

So, if you've never been (shame on you), or you've been, but would really like that extra hour without quite as many crazed shoppers who might spill their custom cocktails on your new purchases, this ticket could be yours.

Here's how you win it.

1) The most deeply discounted sale pieces are usually spring or summer. What one trend did you skip out on this last spring or summer that you'd snap up in a hurry if you found it at the DSS? Leave your answer in the comments here on this post, on my DC Celine facebook page, or tweet it at me (@DCCeline), hashtag #DistrictSample. Bonus points if you do your research and share the shop that'll be at the DSS where you think you'll find it.

2) Enter by 11:59pm ET on Friday, 20 September.

3) That's it.

Well, then I look at your marvelous entries and decide who's likely to use the ticket to its greatest potential. I'll notify the winner via whatever vehicle they commented, posted, or tweeted on Saturday, September 21st.

What you get:

• A much shorter line
• An extra hour of hoards-free shopping, sipping, and nibbling
• A VIP goodie bag
• If you want to, the girlfriend shopping experience. In other words, you, @kcesledd, and I can shop together. KC is another stylish friend who'll be joining me at the DSS. So stylish, in fact, that Washingtonian's Shop Around blog featured her. 

Or not. It's totally up to you. Though I do find that the group shop is very useful in these circumstances. Bag holding and all, while you shimmy into a dress over your clothes.

The details:

Who: You, hopefully! And I'll be there, too. And a bazillion other fashionable ladies.

What: Shopping. Period. This is serious stuff, folks. And it benefits N Street Village.

Where: The Sphinx Club, 1315 K Street, NW

When: Tuesday, 24 September, 5:30 VIP, 6:30 General Admission

And if for some reason you don't want to enter the giveaway, you can go buy a ticket here!

Give in Style: How to Wear a Scarf

I'm a scarf addict. Always have been. I've been collecting scarves from my grandmothers, my mother-in-law, and, well, Target, for years. Decades, even. So when I posted recently about the beautiful Ethiopian-made Salem's Ethiopia scarves sold by Walmart online, a few of you said "I want to get one, but I don't know how to wear it."

Any way you want to, really.

Scarves are currently hip, but they've been a lady's go-to accessory (a gentleman's, too, for that matter) for literally centuries. A lady can never have too many scarves. They go with just about everything. My always-together mother-in-law, for example, is never, ever without her scarf, her hat, and her lipstick.

They cover your hair in a convertible. They keep your neck covered when you're under the weather. They wrap around your shoulders when you're chilled. They give a bit of flair, and they add color.

Clockwise, from top left: Nepali by TDM, Salem's Ethiopia, vintage, Bean Style at its best, vintage, Target (blue version not online, but a pink one is), Salem's Ethiopia, vintage, then, in the center, Salem's Ethiopia + The Bean.

As you can see, I'm partial to the big, drapey scarves, which I wrap two times around, then tie loosely. But I can tie 'em in a bow and throw 'em over my shoulder, too. (Points if you get the reference, folk song enthusiasts). Little ones will knot demurely. Big ones will drape softly.

I've found scarves just about everywhere, but as I already posted, two of my favorites are Salem's Ethiopia, available via Walmart, and my newly gifted Nepali by TDM silk number. Both are soft, drapey, and add lots of color to neutral ensembles. That, and part of proceeds go to support women's small businesses. How can you not love that?

PS - for those of you who want a tutorial, the lovely Clinton Kelly pinned one recently. Check it out here!

Give in Style: Handcrafted Ethiopian Scarves...at walmart

It's been a long time since The Real J showed up on this here lil' blog. One of my long-time style inspirations, she used to make regular appearances. Then I left that office. Then she left the country. For Ethiopia.

Her H's work took them there, and she freelanced. And taught yoga. And made friends with folks in an amazing country I can only hope I'll visit one day.

And one of those folks is a designer, apparently.

The Real J posted a link to walmart in facebook. "That's odd," I thought. "She's so not the wal-mart shopper." But it was about some scarves - some beautiful, gauzy, delicately colored scarves.

J's friend Salem was picked up by walmart in their Full Circle Exchange program. Can you imagine getting that call? Or email? Or letter? Or however one gets notified of these things nowadays? You're a woman in Ethiopia designing scarves, and American behemoth walmart wants to carry your wares.

How beautiful - and covetable, in the best of ways - are these pieces? All are pictured on Salem's site, Salem's Ethiopia. For now, we'll just have to make do with the Walmart pieces, though, or cross our (ok, my) fingers that J or someone she knows travels to Addis Ababa soon and can pick them up for me. I mean...that necklace...

J and Salem were neighbors in Addis Ababa. When I asked J about Salem and her business, she couldn't say enough. "She's just good people," she said. It takes a lot, methinks, to start a business in a place that knows itself almost too well, that, in fact, turned in on itself, and is only now starting to rise up from its own ashes. To say that Ethiopia has a rich history might be one of the biggest understatements around, so for Salem, it makes perfect sense to use art and design to make a "living history, telling the stories of Ethiopia as it courageously battled wars, bonded religions and empowered its people through artwork."

With the success she's had so far, and the friends, fans, and supporters she's developed over the years, Salem could easily leave Ethiopia. She could take what she's started and move to the US or the UK. The red tape in either place would be considerably less for a business woman than it is in Ethiopia. But Salem stays. She's inherently - perhaps instinctively - committed to her country. So she stays.

The Real J told me that when Salem sold the first piece of jewelry that she had created - herself - she gained a sense of self worth that was so powerful she wanted to pass that on to other women. In addition to recording Ethiopia's story in art, her mission is, then, to empower women like herself to be able to experience that same moment of power and realization. So she stays. She grows her business, grows opportunity for Ethiopian craftspeople, and raises her family (3 children, all now at university).

(One of these days, H and I will schlep The Beans across oceans and continents to Addis Ababa, and we'll meet Salem. H being Orthodox, which many Ethiopians are, gives him a special bond to the people and the place.)

I will not tell a lie. As soon as J posted the walmart link, I clicked (I mean, she's one of the most stylish people I know). Then I bought. All. 3. Scarves. (We won't talk about the scarf I bought at the other behemoth, Tar-zhay, the very same morning.) Then I browsed the rest of the collection.

It's teeny, compared to the rest of the site. There are 52 apparel items in the Full Circle Exchange, 173 in the whole collection, with a few sold out (the dresses below, for example, of course). But the story in it - and the cause - are worthy. Though admittedly, the cynical me wonders how much of it might be a PR tactic on wal-mart's part. If J hadn't posted it, and didn't know Salem personally, having met many of the artisans in her cooperative, I'd wonder whether the women even existed. The idea, though - part of a larger initiative, Empowering Women Together - is to foster success for small, women-owned businesses, enabling job creation and skills development. Makes sense to me. Never mind that the goods themselves are lust-worthy.

Clockwise, from top left, scarf, convertible dress, maxi dress, laptop case

I can't wait to wear my scarves. I have visions of drapey goodness, of light, airy coziness on these in-between days (not these weirdo scorchers in April we're getting right now). I'll be sure to Instagram (@DCCeline) when they get here...but only if you promise to do the same.

Give in Style: All I Want for Christmas Guest List at Capital Style

EmilyKate is one of those ladies I'm so glad blogging brought into my life - she's smart, stylish, savvy, and works her tuckus off for both her DayJob and her blog. So I happily answered her request to join a Whole Bunch of Other Cool Ladies in her All I Want for Christmas series. Jump on over here for some great gift ideas - of things other ladies actually want (and don't forget the other days in the series for more fab ideas).

Image via

Then, my friends, I got a little bit of my wish list - some time. I almost literally snuck out last night to co-host The Shoe Hive's Hive on the Hill Opening Night party with Alison of Wardrobe Oxygen. It was, quite frankly, a fabulous party.

One of my favorite parts? Our wish lists, which we picked out last week when we visited the ladies of the Hive in their Old Town shop. What I want? Pretty much anything by baublist Alexis Bittar, but especially...

My Wish List: What I've dubbed Alexis Bittar's "Coffin Cuff." What badass girl wouldn't want some glittering coffins on her wrist?

My Wish List: More Alexis Bittar (I've been in love since my first piece, bought in South Beach nigh 10 years ago)

Wardrobe Oxygen's Wish List: More Alexis Bittar. Alison and I "negotiated" who would get to put these unusual sparklers on our list. She "won."

My other favorite part? Laughing my red-clad rear end off with some old and new friends. Now that's a party worth attending.

Oh, and if you didn't make it to the party last night, and happen to be in the Barracks Row area through Sunday, make sure you stop by the remainder of the Hive on the Hill Pop-Up Shop and get a friend (or yourself something pretty and sparkly!

Give in Style: The Right Gift for Everyone

"The Right Gift for Everyone" might be a little ambitious. But in the interest of keeping my own gift-giving thoughts collected, I started a Pinterest board "For You..." to collect all of the things I see and say "oooh! That would be perfect for...The Beans, my girlfriends, a hostess, a boss...

You get the picture.

So while I slave away at trying to respond to government requests (no offense - really, I promise - to anyone who works in the government procurement business, but really? Do you have to release all of your requests exactly such that I have to slave away as everyone else does their holiday shopping and goes to holiday happy hours?), check out my picks for now. I'll keep adding more as we go through the season (and I take a break from the proposals to eat and pin a few pieces here and there).

Happy Shopping!

Oh, and for those of you with an H, a boyfriend, a fiance, a male friend, a father, brother, or even a male boss in your life, check out my For H board, which, while specific to my - ahem - H's taste, might have a few ideas for you, too!

Shop, Swap & Give in Style: Glitter Glam Swap & Shop

I'm a huge fan of dewdrop DC's founder, Kristine Thomas. I'm a huge fan of what she's done in Just. One. Year. She's pulled together a unique combination of consistently quality swaps with charity connections and has a following of shoppers that gives other local, small businesses the chance to share their wares.

So, yet again, I'm incredibly bummed that I can't make this Saturday's Glitter Glam Swap & Shop, celebrating dewdrop's 1 year anniversary. She's included another fashion show (the pictures from the last, rooftop one were so much fun), a cokctail hour, and, like I mentioned, a set of Pop-Up Shops sure to help you check friends and family off of your holiday shopping list.

Yes, I just typed that. It's that time of year.

So quick! Get online to the Eventbrite site, buy your $15 ticket today, then scour your closet tonight for the 5-20 (yes! 20!) "gently loved" items you think someone else might be able to style into their new closets. Drop off is Saturday between 2:00-3:30.

What: Dewdrop DC's Glitter Glam Swap & Shop with Cocktail Hour & Fashion Show

When: Saturday, November 17, 2012, 2:00 - 5:00, swap item drop off from 2:00-3:30

Where: Hillyer Art Space, 9 Hillyer Court NW, Washinton DC

Why: First, it benefits Goodwill. And the Red Cross (In light of the recent natural disaster caused by Hurricane Sandy, a percentage of the proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross to aid those impacted by the storm). Perfect. Then, there's the holiday shopping you can get done at the Pop-Up Shops (check out dewdrop's blog for posts about the founders' and owners' inspirations for thier businesses). Lastly? Find yourself a holiday ensemble or three. Or just a new favorite pair of boyfriend jeans.

Finding an item at a swap is a great way to dip your proverbial sartorial toes into a trend on which you might not otherwise spend money (even at a fast fashion emporium). Try it out!

Oh! Wait! And then...if you're not quite sure how to style a piece you're clutching, grab a cocktail and watch the Blogger Style Challenge and Fashion Show (3:45 to 4:00). It's a runway-ready fashion show using items dropped off for the swap and from the vendors. DC fashion bloggers will style and model the most glamorous winter trends and as a bonus, one will showcase a DIY glitter project!

Did someone say glitter?

Shop & Give in Style: Pregaming the District Sample Sale

I’m wallowing (sort of) in a after-Labor-Day summer cold, flying solo for the weekend whilst H reclaims our place Down Tha Shore from our last summer renters. We made, as some of you may have seen, a Tar-ZHAY run Saturday, and had fun wandering the aisles of Whole Foods while the heavens opened up and released their furor.

By the time we got home from that trip, I was feelin’ pretty poopy, as we say in this house. I handed The Bean off for a planned overnight with my MIL, and deployed Megamind (one of the funniest movies ever), pizza, and Dolci Gelati chocolate to manage Bean No.2 until bedtime.

We awoke Sunday morning to two of us now down to this cold (The Bean, too), so we’re watching Sprout TV, drinking linden tea with honey, and working on our hamster houses.

I, on the other hand, got on the computer, started pinning, of course, and unlike most of the time, I started pinning with a purpose. Tomorrow is the District Sample Sale. As this is possibly the 537th DSS I’ve attended, I do have it down to a bit of a science. But given #healthyme, for the first time ever, I’m able to look beyond my staple shoe and accessories finds to actual, you know, clothes. I can now - and this is, quite frankly, momentous for me - scour the racks of the DSS boutiques for something other than the largest sizes. So I will.

To prep, then, and make the best use of that single, oh-so-worth-it VIP hour before the venue reverts to its crowded but vibrant self, I’m making a bit of a game plan. It looks a little bit like this:

1) Double-check the list of stores. I know my favorites well, but my favorites have been Simply Soles and Queen Bee. Both have great deals, and I won’t skip them, but I will also check out some more clothing purveyors.

2) Decide whether I’m going to look for certain items for my New Closet, or shop with relative abandon. The variety of shops is broad enough that I can probably identify a couple of key pieces (dressy shorts, trousers, perhaps?), and target my search. Or I can just keep my eyes out for things that catch my eye, and go for it. The latter, obviously, is a bit more dangerous.

3) Map it out. There isn’t a map online yet, but there will be in line (or at least there has been in previous years). So once I’ve clarified my strategy (and yes, it is actually important to have a strategy if you’re spending the $100 to shop the VIP hour vice socialize), I’ll figure out where to go first, and figure out especially where to go before the hoardes hit. Urban Chic, for example, is always swamped by the masses after VIP, so it’s a good place to start, if there’s anything there I think I want.

4) Limit. I suppose this should have been the first item. H and I haven’t discussed it yet, but it’s key to have a budgeted amount to spend. I do, in this case, need some new clothes, and this is a great place to get deals on high quality pieces, but I can’t spend with abandon. So set one.

5) Check out the boutiques online. Like I said, I’m pinning with a purpose. I won’t have a list or anything that fancy, but I will have, by the time we get to Tuesday night, have looked at a couple of my likely stops and identified a couple of things I’ll look for in my rounds. Most of the stores treat the DSS like an extended clearance sale, so if you look at the clearance or sale areas of their websites, you’re more likely to see those pieces on the racks at the DSS. A few places also bring fall or winter pieces, but those are either at full price or at only a small discount. Still, if you love a piece, why not?

Clockwise, from top left: A Dolman-sleeve blouse that might go well with a lot, but in particular the Union Jack-covered Religion Clothing skinnies H bought me this weekend (Luna); Flying Tomato embroidered short to feed my newfound dressy shorts addiction (Imagine, a Fashion Apothecary); Frye riding boots (Simply Soles); Frye studded motorcycle boots, which I haven't found at any of the boutiques, but I would absolutely splurge on if I found them; Lillybee snakeskin wedges that would just be a dainty little addition to my shoe closet (Simply Soles); the Proportion Of Blue Cirque trouser jean, because I need a new pair (Imagine)

6) Lastly, but also probably first, if you’re seriously shopping, like I will be, forgo the drinks and appetizers, as yummy as they might be, until after you’re done shopping. You might have to wait a little longer before you snag a cocktail, but you won’t have to juggle your champers whilst balancing on one foot putting the other into the proverbial glass slipper.

Trust me. I’ve tried.

Swap & Give in Style: Swap & Shop

Yet again, you need to go and report in to me, because apparently, I'm doomed to never, ever, ever get to one of dewdrop's events.

What: Get Lucky Swap & Shop

Where: 777 7th Street NW (above Gallery Place Metro)

When: 9/15, 2-5pm (rain date 9/22)

Why: swap, pop up shop, blogger style challenge with a fashion show, and a VIP Lucky Charm cocktail hour

Check out their site and their announcement, here.

Favorite Post: As It Was in the Blogger Beginning

I was actually hunting down a more recent set of jewelry box and closet re-organizing posts I wanted to re-share because it's still insane here. So I searched my own darned blog for "organizing," and up popped this amazing retro-DC-style-blogger-scene post. Yes. I called my own post amazing. Deal with it.

I decided to share this now, because in between contracts and proposals and business deals, I've accepted and declined a slew of blogger invites this week. And I'm not even one of those insane folks headed to Fashion Mecca for NYFW. Between that and cleaning our room and organizing the 10,000 samples from event goodie bags this weekend (I seriously had one from an event More Than A Year Ago), it just somehow seemed appropros.

How the heck did this post come up in a search on "organizing?" you ask? Well, there was an indefatigable PR maven "organizing" photos. Can you guess who she was without clicking through?

Read on, here, to see how it all went down in October 2006 at a Saks charity shopping event. Things haven't changed all that much in 6 years, I suppose.

Photo via

Shop & Give in Style: District Sample Sale Tickets Go on Sale Today!

Since it's inception, it's been a fabulous event. I hawk it here every season for good reason.

1) Awesome causes. This year, it's one close to my own heart. I firmly believe that the arts are a key window to children's development. The Sitar Arts Center, which fosters personal and artistic growth through the visual, performing and digital arts, the Center offers after-school, weekend and summer classes to more than 800 children and youth each year, 80% of whom come from low-income households.

2) Shopping. This is - almost literally - a who's who of DC boutiques and artisans, even. Some of my favorite wardrobe staples I've found on the DSS racks, like a retro-silouhetted red knit sheath from last year's Imagine offerings, my now-too-big-but-much-beloved Stitch's jeans, and more Queen Bee necklaces and Lillybee shoes than I should count.

3) Cocktails & Snacks. There are always fun cocktails - I've yet to be disappointed with the 2-3 signature choices each year - and who can say no to sliders or cupcakes (they're teeny, right? Fewer WW points for this #healthyme girl?).

4) Friends. For me, the DSS has become a place where I meet online friends (twitter, instagram, blog) In Real Life. Personally, I've spent the extra money the last few seasons for the extra hour of VIP shopping, shopped like a madwoman, and then spent the rest of the time wandering, gossiping, getting my fortune told, and forgetting, like usual, that the fabulous makeup Neiman Marcus always has on hand (last year it was Le Metier de Beaute, and their artists were amazing) is NM card or cash-only. Cash, girl, cash. Make sure you have enough cash.

And with that tip (bring cash. it's way easier.), on to the specifics:

What: District Sample Sale Fall 2012

Where: 5300 Wisconsin Avenue NW (the old Filene's space - hurrah! in my 'hood! less trying-to-cab-in-and-out-of-downtown-or-Georgetown for me!)

When: Tuesday, September 11, 6:30-9:30pm (VIP 5:30-6:30pm)

Why: See above. That is all.

I will have my finger poised over the "buy" button at 10am sharp this morning. How 'bout you?


   

Lastly, keep your eyes peeled on this space. As we get closer, I'll share tips for maxing out your DSS experience (there is a science and an art to it), and maybe, just maybe, there will be a "group shopping experience" coming...

Shop & Give in Style: Tangerine Tango Swap

H has a mini-obsession with trips to the Salvation Army. It's been our go-to as we clear things out each season, whether from The Beans growing (sniff!) or from us shrinking. He just dropped a few loads last weekend, while The Bean and I were at the dress rehearsal for her first dance recital.

And this weekend, I put two more skirts on the "to donate" pile. I adore these skirts (born of my late summer cargo and denim purchases), but they're not worth the time and energy to take them in the inches (woo hoo!) they would need now.

What I should be doing is swapping. It's all the rage, you know. I know myself well enough to know that ebay or a "shop my closet"-type effort will be just that: effort. And too much of it. I'd sell the things, I'm sure, then never get to the post office to mail them to the nice person who bought them. That probably wouldn't go over so well.

But a swap, I think I could handle. Bring my stuff, take new stuff (that fits!). I think I can manage that.

Naturally, we'll juuuuust be getting back from Down Tha Shore when dewdrop DC hosts the next of their incredibly successful swaps. If I could only get myself in gear to pile up my pieces before we leave (item #537 on my pre-beach to-do list), I'll see you there!

What: Tangerine Tango Swap

Where: Vapiano Bethesda, 4900 Hampden Lane, Bethesda, MD (Red Line, ladies!)

When: Saturday, June 30, 1-4pm

How: Tickets, here. Then here are dewdrop's instructions (bolding my own) - which are important to the swap going well, thankyouverymuch!

"[Bring] unwanted yet stylish items to the swap in exchange for items from other fashionistas. Bring five items or more of like-new or vintage clothing, shoes and accessories. Then, fill up a bag with as many items as you brought in. All sizes are welcome and encouraged. In light of the hot color-blocking trend, and tangerine tango as the “it” color, summer season items are only accepted, and items are not limited to only this color.

To avoid long lines and to maximize time to inspect for quality, there will be a drop-off time of 1:00 to 2:30 pm. Vapiano is located in Bethesda Row where there are many shops and cafes to peruse before the doors to the swap open at 2:30 pm. Fashionistas can swap until 4:00 pm, when the doors to the swap close. Tables and clothing racks will be sorted and labeled by type of clothing and size, from extra small to plus size.

Not only can fashionistas look fabulous in their new wardrobe, but they can feel good knowing that any clothing remaining from the swap will be donated to Goodwill. Goodwill’s mission is to help people earn a living, improve their lives, and strengthen their families and their communities.

Register early—Dewdrop will give away swag bags to the first 50 registrants online. Tickets are $10 if purchased in advance and $15 at the door with at least five items at both price points. Tickets are available at http://dewdrop.eventbrite.com.

To add to the fun, there will also be raffle prizes donated by local Bethesda retailers as well as a red carpet photo-op, where fashionistas can strike a pose and don their swap finds."

What you have to do: Promise to report back on your finds!

Give in Style: DC Newsbabes Bash for Breast Cancer

What: DC Newsbabes Bash for Breast Cancer, with Honored Guest Andrea Mitchell

When: Tuesday, June 19, 7:00-9:00pm

Where: The Howard Theater, 620 T Street NW, Washington, DC

Why: You can't argue with raising money for the GW University Mammovan. You also can't argue with the DC Newsbabes and their "Newsmen in Pink" compadres behind the desks and on the streets. Never mind that it's in the amazing space at The Howard Theater.

Cost: $75.00, tickets available at dcnewsbabes.org

Shop & Give in Style: Old Town Boutique District Boutiques Give Back

And a little love to the other side of the river...(lord, are there some major shopping decisions this weekend!)

What: Old Town Boutique District Boutiques Give Back

When: Saturday, May 19

Where: Old Town Alexandria, VA, 34 locations. Check this out for the full list of participating stores and their deals + fun stuff.

Why: Shopping discounts + portion of proceeds to charity. No brainer, people.

Thank you to Treat for sharing! And in advance for donating 20% of sales to Autism Speaks, never mind the cool raffle they're doing. Shop there now, before they move. Boo.

Shop and Give in Style: ELLE and Saks Chevy Chase for Children's National Medical Center

As a mama, the Children's National Medical Center is close to my heart. While I won't be able to make it, I sincerely hope that those of you who've been meaning to visit Saks to pick up something or other (don't we always have it on our list?) make it over tomorrow, when you can buy with a little less guilt and a lot more confidence that you're doing something good in the world.

What: ELLE, Saks, and Ralph Lauren Black Label for Children's National Medical Center
When: Thursday, October 27, 2011, 6-8pm
Where: Saks Fifth Avenue Chevy Chase, 5555 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, Maryland
Why: Joann Pailey, ELLE Market Director will present fashions from Ralph Lauren Black Label, champers + munchies, and stylists on hand. Oh. And I did mention that 10% of the evening's sales go to help sick kids - really sick kids - get better.

There's still room! RSVP to 202.497.5302

Shop & Give in Style: Debrief

Dateline: Arlington, VA, Wednesday, 18 March.

DC Celine pulls a quick-change artist act in her cube, colleagues on the lookout. Yes, it's a shopping event she's attending, but darn it! it's the first event she's been to in almost a year, so she'd better look good. Camera ready!

Mad dash across the Key Bridge, forgoes any attempt at street parking, heads straight for garage at The Shops at Georgetown Park. Notes parking level. Hits the ATM (MAC machine, thank you very much), knowing full well that, while cards work at the DSS, cash = fast.

Hoofs it up M Street in her Aerosoles heels (can't beat style and comfort), black Loft tights, and Ali Ro standby. Rationale = Ali Ro short enough to play tunic when trying on bottoms, thin enough to try on jackets and tops. Black tights preserve any remaining modesty (not really much left, frankly, but for others' sakes) and still thin enough to not throw off trying on pants.

Stands in line. Listens to gabbing, introduces herself to DC Scout writer also in line. Air kisses and waves with the fabulous Babsie D, her Mighty Assistant, and Joyce of Be That Mom. Notes hose - yes, hose - nude - on two young women in front of her. Sigh. Maybe DC hasn't gotten as far as she hoped.

Nice Mary Washington fashion students hand out programs/maps. Very useful for planning the VIP hour strategy. Goal = black flats, suit. Targets = Sassanova, simplysoles, then suit shopping. She knows DSS isn't necessarily the place to buy a suit, but separates, especially a jacket, can certainly be found.

Enter.

Upstairs to shoes. Scan, scan. Nada. Neither shoe purveyor has anything particularly basic (not surprising), but there are some beautiful shoes not in her size (9s are notoriously difficult to find at sales).

Sangaree's right there, so off to the racks. Pencil skirt, several sizes, but just not quite right. Oooh! grey higher-waisted, cuffed trousers. Lovely lighter color and weight for summer. Up with the Ali Ro, on with the trousers. Yup. Perfect. $99. Not bad, but not great, so peers at the label. Ports 1961, originally $525. Ok, then. Score deal #1. Attempts the matching jacket, but needs one size larger to accomodate Germanic shoulders and frame. No diminutive Italian here.

(Regret - completely missed that Mona Assemi of mona assemi jewelry was paired up with Sangaree. Lovely baubles. Just wasn't focused on accessories, so didn't pay it no mind. Ooops.)

Through the door to scan some more. Imagine Fashion Apothecary, a place she'd hoped to visit, but just hadn't made yet. Jeans all over the place. Another quick change, and score! a pair of $200 Stitch's bootcut jeans (the softest, comfiest jean ever on the body) for $100. Not on the list, but will replace the very nearly see through Citizens hanging in her closet.

Scan, scan...rush, rush. Assumes her hour is nearly up. Stops by Periwinkle to check out potential suits and jackets by Rochelle Behrens. Lovely, lovely stuff, but just not quite the right fit. Jackets with just a little twist of a big collar for standing up or laying down. Perfect pencil skirts. Fine fabrics with interesting textures.

Not feeling confident in finding anything else, and just about shopped out, stops for food. Mmmm...roasted red pepper, proscuitto, and cheese "grilled cheeses," mini southwestern wraps. Not terribly imaginative, but substantial enough to energize for a trip back downstairs. Helps to run into bundle of energy better known as the Queen Bee.

Ginger. Must visit. Another door not yet darkened, despite ridiculously close proximity. Bean-having is not conducive to boutique shopping. Flip, flip, flip, pretty things, but no inspiring deals. Until she spies a woman about to crouch down by the desk. She goes in and does the same. Said woman nicely backs off, as she thinks DC Celine was there first. A 9.5 and 10 in Modern Vintage riding boot. Kidding, right? Quick, quick, try on. Price check? $50 from somewhere in the $300 range. Promises nice woman she'll "pay it forward."

Pays it forward when she chats with Ms. Spinach, who was looking for well-heeled attendees to capture on film, and known for seeking - ahem - larger sized footwear. They're now boot twins.

That's it. Enough. No more. Food. Water. sweetgreen and georgetown cupcake. Le Parisien (sucker for a champagn vinaigrette) and lemon raspberry. Lenten fast be gone.

Finds a table at which to perch herself - and chat with Kelly of cityshopgirl.com. Has a lovely catchup, and realizes that the crowds still haven't decended. Checks watch. It's not even 6:15 yet.

Wowza. Did all that shopping in about a half hour. Brilliant. Men everywhere would be astounded.

Fast forward through meeting McLean of Deacon Does DC and observing much craziness as the crowds roll in. Finally finds Joyce and crew, and follows them around for a little while (Joyce was just dying for someone to buy a gold formal coat, since it didn't fit her - no dice).

About ready to leave. One last round, say the girls, then drinks and food. Sitting down.

simplsoles. Not interested in anything, already saw this stuff.

But then...crapola. What size are those? 10? Well, suppose they're worth trying.

Crapola. Perfect. One last deal, and discovers that Cassie of simplysoles has started her own in-house line, lillybee. $195 for $60.

Phew. What a night.

Reminder: Give in Style

Don't forget! Gap.com (and Banana and Old Navy) is giving you a chance to save big - and give big this weekend.

What: Gap Give & Get - 30% off (using the online coupon), and 5% of your purchase goes to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

When: Starting today! through Sunday.

Why: Duh.

See you there! I'm pondering this adorable Old Navy keyhole dress (from an already affordable $24.50 to $17.15, and .$85 goes to LLS)

or maybe this polo dress for The Bean.

Or maybe this lovely red knit

Or maybe this fun orange wrap dress that looked so gorgeous on my cousin

Or...

Give in Style: Give & Get from GAP

A bunch of you said you wanted ways to look good during these (blah blah blah) economic times. Staples-stockers like GAP are always a great option...and in March you can jump that down even lower - while doing a good deed. Try these deals on for size...

Trouser jeans - perfect for dressing up a casual outfit, with snazzy double-button and hip pocket details. On sale online (though promotion is in-store) for $49.99. With 30% off, a very reasonable $34.99, and about $1.50 (not much, but every little bit counts) of that goes to charity.

Pintuck cuffed shirt - a twist on the white standard, and an easy way to brighten your wardrobe. $44 down to $30.80, again donating about $1.50 to charity.

What: GAP Give & Get.

When: March 12-15 - In Store Only

Why: 30% off your purchases, and use the coupon as many times as you like, then 5% of your purchase goes to

the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Why even better: Good at any Gap Inc. store - including Gap, Old Navy, and Banana Republic

Shop away!

PS - If anyone's feeling particularly generous, I have a dear friend who's trying to help another dear friend through leukemia - they're looking for a donor. If you can help with a donation - or better yet, are willing to get tested (a private test kit costs $175), please email me directly at dcceline.blogspot@gmail.com.