The last time I visited DC was pre-COVID; at that time it was February. As an Indianapolis Wardrobe Stylist, I wore a tan trench coat and a wool sheath by Brooks Brothers. This time it was 3 weeks later; therefore, I thought a trench coat was too much. Instead, I wore a navy blazer with gold buttons by Veronica Beard. That look was good, but I did see trench coats worn by some women; however, they were short trench coats. I saw a handful of these, often worn with a pants ensemble. They were fitted and over the hip! I loved them. I thought, “I need to trade out one of my three trench coats at home for one of these lovely silhouettes.”
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One other dilemma I have to share with you is something we all encounter: finding the right shoes for touring and a dress-up outfit! This part of the day did not go well for your Indianapolis Wardrobe Stylist, fashionistas! I wore my “very comfortable” Stewart Wiseman leopard pumps that were block heels. Usually, these heels can help me go on for hours without any pain or discomfort, but this time, they were not a good choice. Everyone in our group was saying they felt hurt, so it wasn’t just me. Anyway, we stopped at a Nordstrom Rack, and I bought a pair of flat sneakers. Finally — relief! At the end of the day, my husband and I went over to Dupont Circle for dinner.
What would I have done differently? Here’s the answer: I still would have worn the same shoes or even another attractive pair of shoes. I would not wear booties because it was already getting very spring-like in DC (although it would be another couple of days before the Cherry Blossoms bloom!) And, I wanted to be more dressed up. (We were meeting with our senators and representatives so a more conservative vibe was appropriate.) But — what I would have done is bring flats in my purse. That would have meant carrying more of a tote bag, or a small bag with a compact bag and shoes such as Teks or other flats. The reason I didn’t bring the extra shoes was my worry about security at the While House and the Capitol. The last time we had visited the nation’s Capitol was right before COVID. But the security is not too intrusive, so next time, I will definitely bring some spare, comfortable shoes. Remember to pick a tote bag that’s wide/big enough to store your heels. I like this unstructured totebag by Lucky Brand, the Mora.
Here are two flat shoe options: Vivaia: https://www.vivaia.com/promotion/VIVAIA-Timeless-Chic-Collection-24SS-6270.html. I recently bought a pair of Vivaia’s in a red Mary Jane because red goes with so much in my closet, as does green or royal blue. Tieks, a great shoe for the more fashionable person who wants several color options.Here is a little history behind the iconic brand.
Keep it sassy, Indy!
Beth Divine, MA, AICI-CIC,
Personal Image Consultant and Indianapolis Wardrobe Stylist
