RVANews

Summer fashion to beat the heat

Courtney Skunda — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 10:00:20 +0000

Ladies and penguins, it's officially summer in Virginia which means the heat wave has come to town and smacked us in the face. I know, all you want to do is drink limeades on the deck at Phil's one last time before it closes, but you are afraid of melting outside.

This is by no means an excuse to let yourself go this summer.

Whether you are heading to the beach, hitting up the pool, off to a BBQ, or throwing one back at the bar, it's always important to stay cool while looking your best. I hit the town and scoured the stores to bring you some of my favorite looks and trends for the summer. So, when you are getting ready to go out on the town, remember to dress for the weather and try to incorporate some of these trends to beat the heat!

$25 or less

Forever21 knit dress, $17
Chain necklace, $15
CALYPSO ST BARTH straw tote bag, $17
Old navy sandals, $23
Old Navy string bikini, $17
Old Navy feb tri blend polo, $10
Old Navy Mens Khaki Cut-Off Shorts (10), $20
Havaianas flip flop shoes, £12

$50 and under

Splurge!

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VCU annual Juried Fashion Show

Courtney Skunda — Thu, 12 May 2011 10:00:26 +0000

What is fashion?

Fashion is a term usually used in a positive sense, as a synonym for glamour, beauty and style, but quite often applies to a personal mode of expression. Fashion is something we deal with everyday. Even people who say they don't care what they wear, well they are lying. They choose clothes every morning that say a lot about them and how they feel that day.

Why is fashion important?

Fashion is big business. More people are involved in buying, selling, and production of clothing than any other business in the world. Everyday, millions of workers design, sew, glue, dye, and transport clothing to stores. Ads on buses, billboards, and magazines give us ideas about what to wear, consciously, or subconsciously.

What should you know about VCU and fashion?

If you didn’t know by now, VCU is tops among public art schools in America. And, yes, that includes their amazing Department of Fashion Design and Merchandising. They currently have over 300 students enrolled in two educational tracks and have a world renowned Advisory Board of industry professionals for their students to works with.

What to know about the Annual Juried Fashion Show?

It’s the hottest ticket in town each May and sells out in a few hours. Each year the VCU Department of Fashion Design and Merchandising holds a highly anticipated sold out event that features the top 100 garments of upperclassmen student designs, chosen by a panel of esteemed fashion industry critics. Judges this year included representatives from Wrangler Jeans, Isaac Mizrahi, Fashion Group International, Cotton Incorporated, and Macy’s among others.

This was the second year in a row that they walked the runway in the Virginia Museum of Fine Art’s Louise B. and J. Harwood Cochrane Atrium. This year’s theme was Heritage which they described as a return to classicism and regality. I think a great example of this is the Royal Wedding we all just witnessed. Old traditions were kept in place with the ceremony, but the mold was broken with edgier Alexander McQueen gowns worn by Kate Middleton and her bridesmaids. You could see in much of the student work a nod to the past with a twist on what is current and comfortable.

The evening was broken into nine segments, each group produced by students in the Advanced Show Production class.

They were: Tribunal Domination; Menswear; Junior Sportswear; Minimalist Chic; Cut-N-Sew Knits; Cocktail; New Directions in Sportswear; Eveningwear; and Arts of Fashion. A few of the standouts were:

Tribunal Domination: Bold patterns with Danish, Indian, Mayan and African Influences. Bright Reds, yellows and greens, mixed with leather and feathers.

Menswear: A nod to 19th century military jackets, lots of denim, vests and epaulets. There was one denim trench in particular with cream detail. The tailoring was impeccable.

Minimalist Chic: This was by far my favorite, maybe because the inspiration was 1970’s icon Halston? Every look had a jacket or cape to match in cashmere. I wanted to leap over the stage and touch everything! Underneath were unstructured dresses, a lot of draping, which is my favorite and is very timely right now. I would make a home for everything in this collection in my closet.

Evening Wear: Professor Henry Swartz asked his students to “Make a Statement” and that was the only prerequisite he gave them. Gowns ranged from less formal to structured evening wear. Two standouts were a champagne colored strapless gown with chiffon detail trailing the bottom of the dress. The second a 1970s style black and white straight gown with keyhole back and long train. Both were showstoppers of the evening.

Critics Awards of the Evening

Ariel McCalla – Tribunal Domination
Laurel Rodriguez – Menswear
Vaida Picker – Junior Sportswear
Rosemary Ann St. Jacques – Minimalist Chic
Vaida Picker and Daedriana Harvey - Cut-N-Sew Knits
Heather Andrews – Cocktail
Meredith Janos – New Directions in Sportswear
Jasmine Justice – Eveningwear
Hae Rin Jeon – Arts of Fashion

Photos by Brian McDaniel

Corrections

We had originally reported that the segments were directed by professors -- which was a bit misleading. To clarify: each segment was produced by students in the Advanced Show Production class.

Mother’s Day gift guide, round two!

Courtney Skunda — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 16:00:26 +0000

Hello Richmond! I'm back again to give you my shopping and gift expertise. I know for men, especially, shopping for your mom or the mom in your life can be somewhat difficult. I practically shop for a living and I struggle every year finding the perfect gift for my mother, so don't feel so bad. I've put together a few of my favorite things that will hopefully guide you in your gift giving this Mother's Day. But remember, it's the thought that counts!

$25 and Under

Lilly Pulitzer IPhone Case

The Pink Palm -- $19.50

Know a tech saavy mom out there? Lilly Pulitzer has come out with these adorable new Ipod and Iphone cases for under $20. You can even buy the mom in your life a dress to match!

Pure Light Candles

Living on Grove -- $20.00

Locally made in Richmond, these candles are made from hand poured soy wax. They burn virtually soot free and do not emit harmful toxins into the air in your home, unlike traditional paraffin wax candles. Another benefit of soy: they burn forever! About 30% longer than regular candles.

My favorite scent is “Chanel #5”. Recycle your jar and get $1 off your next candle.

Picasso Exhibit

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts -- $20.00

What's better than buying your mom a gift? Spending time with mom while doing something cultural and fun! If you or your mom haven't been to the VMFA to see the amazing Picasso exhibit, put it on your to do list. If you can't make it on Mother's Day, it will be here until May 15th. Not to be missed!

$50 and Under

Petals, Flowers by Sarah

Fraiche -- $46.00

No matter what they tell you...WOMEN LIKE FLOWERS. They like to be thought of not only on special days like Mother's Day and Birthdays, but on random occasions too. One of my favorite florists in town is Sarah Pollard Chiffriller, a graduate of St. Margaret's School and Randolph-Macon Woman's College. A member of the Garden Club of Virginia's Boxwood Garden Club, she is a multiple flower show award winner. She makes amazing arrangements available at Fraiche on Libbie Avenue every Friday. She even does special orders too!

Scout, Four Boys Bag

The Shops at 5807 -- $50

Buying for a Mom that has a bunch of little ones with lots of stuff to haul? Or maybe she likes to spend all summer at the pool or the beach? Well this is the bag for her. Scout bags are durable, water resistant, and most importantly for moms, can be wiped clean! Not only are they functional, but they are pretty darn cute too. I have 6 of them, don't judge!

Initial Charms

Stella and Dot -- $34 each

Looking for a sentimental gift? Stella and Dot makes great affordable initial charm jewelry in sterling silver and 14 karat dipped gold. Both new and old moms love wearing their children's initials around a necklace or charm bracelet. Buy one charm or multiple to get the look your mom will love the best!

$100 and Under

Sand Fleas, Handmade Wreath

Designs by Jessica Tongel -- $65.00

Can we say obsessed with these wreaths?! I have one for each season and one of my alma mater for Football and Basketball season. Jessica Tongel makes one of a kind pieces that look fabulous on any front door! Personalize it for your mom by picking out her favorite colors and putting her initials or last name on it.

Cooking Class

Sur la Table -- $69-$79.00

Have an aspiring chef in the family? Send mom to a fun night out at Stony Point where she can learn to cook “French Bistro Favorites” or “Fabulous Food from Spain”. My pick is “Wine Friendly Favorites”!

Splurge Items

Katie Benson Necklace

Quirk Gallery -- $198.00

Have a fashion conscious mom? Quirk Gallery has one of a kind jewelry from local artists like Katie Benson. This bold, crystal, layered necklace would look beautiful on any mom!

Chan Luu Scarf

The Shoe Box -- $195.00

It's always tricky buying clothes for others, that's why I typically stick to accessories as gifts, especially for my mom. A beautiful scarf is always a great accessory and gift. It can be warn year around in Richmond and always adds an extra something to a dull outfit. Chan Luu scarves are my new favorite and I want one in every color!

St. Patrick’s Day: don’t dress like a leprechaun

Courtney Skunda — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 16:00:28 +0000

So, I hear from the RVA News Staff that there are some pretty insane St. Patrick’s Day parties around these parts. But, to be honest, I’ve never had a green beer and probably never will. It’s just not my thing. I am however fully versed in fashion and style and can tell you that those “Kiss Me I’m Irish” t-shirts are not so cool and definitely will not get you the drunken guy or gal in the bar. So, I’ve put together a green style guide for you if you are looking for something to wear to your St. Patrick’s Day soirée.

Women’s Items – Under $30

Green Thumb Necklace

Francesca’s Collections »
$28.00

Green not your color? This would probably be a great option for you. Pair it with basic white or black. You can dress it up or down too. I suggest a fun black dress and boots if we have a chilly St. Patty’s Day.

Urban Behavior Slub Tank in Olive

South Moon Under »
$24.00

You can never go wrong with a cute tank and jeans for a night out. This is a great army green option from South Moon Under. The cut is flattering on most body types, too.

Women’s Items – Under $60

Long Sleeve Pocket Tee in Forest

American Apparel »
$35.00

So, I’m a sucker for a great t-shirt. I will literally pay $150 for an amazing one that fits and washes well and has great style. American Apparel does a great job of giving you the same look and feel for only $35.

Rainy Day Bow Flat in Mediterranean olive

J. Crew »
$58.00

Going somewhere there will be lots of gross green beer sticking to the floors? These flats are perfect! They are not only stylish and can be worn anywhere, but you can hose them off when they get dirty.

Women’s Items – Splurge

Traveler Blouse by Trina Turk

Monkee’s of Richmond »
$168.00

The Traveler Blouse will be a great addition to your wardrobe. Wear it now for the holiday and then keep it around for Spring/Summer to pair with shorts and white jeans. It’s a great find!

Tiered Tee Dress by Velvet

Pink »
$129.00

Big night out in RVA? This is a great dress in a flattering shade of green. Also washable, which is key.

Men’s Items Under $30

Men’s Poplin Shirt in Olive Butter

Old Navy »
$24.50

You can never go wrong with a button down and khakis. They should be a staple in every man’s wardrobe.

Soft Wash Cotton V-Neck Tee in Laurel Green

Banana Republic »
$24.50

Banana makes great soft tees at a modest price point. Definitely worth checking out.

Men’s Items Under $60

Men’s 4 Button logo in Spearmint

Johnnie O »
$55.00

Never heard of Johnnie O? It’s all the rage on the West Coast and down south in Charlotte. They are well known for their “wedge polo” but this 4 button logo in spearmint is perfect for St. Patty’s Day! Currently, Johnnie O just has trunk shows in RVA but will hopefully be here full time in the near future.

Vineyard Vines Whale Canvas Club Belt in Green

The Pink Palm »
$49.50

This a great preppy belt with a subtle green pattern if you don’t want to overdo it.

Men’s Item – Splurge

Bill’s Khakis Plain Front Pant in Olive

Franco’s Fine Clothier »
$115.00

Incredible pants, but takes the right guy to pull them off. A great St. Patty’s Day statement.

St. Patrick’s Day Tie

Peter Blair »
$75.00

For a classier look, check out Peter Blair’s special St. Patty’s Day tie. Perfect for a dressier occasion!

Seeing red (and pink!)

Courtney Skunda — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 17:03:14 +0000

Love it or hate it, Valentine’s Day is upon us and has everyone seeing the color red this February. Whether you are headed to the office, out to the bars with friends, or on a romantic date with your true love, it’s always important to look your best. So, RVA, here are some red and pink looks to keep you in style this February 14th!

For the ladies

$25 and under

Old Navy – Women’s Rugby Stripe Pocket Tee in Pink - $14.50

Step into a mall these days and sailor stripes are all the rage for Spring. I particularly love this pink and white version. Pair it with skinny jeans and a jacket for a casual night out.

Forever21 – Draped Wrap Skirt - $17.80

I love this skirt so much, I may just go out and buy it myself! The wine color is not too red that it screams "Valentine’s Day!" and it’s classy enough that you can pair it with a jacket for work or a blouse for dinner date.

$50ish

Gap – The patent city flat in Guava Pink - $39.50

I know what you are going to say: "Pink flats?" But these look just like the Lanvin version at the high priced NYC department stores! Wear them with an all black outfit and dress it up with some fun jewelry.

Macy’s - BCBGeneration Dress, Strapless Party - $50.99

Have a hot date this Valentine’s Day? Fabulous Little Red Dress marked down to an incredible price.

Splurge

Anthropologie – Collier Madame Necklace - $428.00

A statement necklace can spice up any outfit and this one is quite the head turner. I can definitely see this on a nude or tan dress which is big for Spring.

Roan – Derek Lam Draped Asymmetrical Dress - $1350.00

Derek Lam, need I say more?! Every little girl can dream…

For the gentlemen

$25 and under

Old Navy – Men’s Mock-Neck Slub-Knit Tee in Berry Red - $24.50

This looks so warm and cozy, that I just want to snuggle up with the guy wearing it!

Forever 21 – Classic V-Neck Tee in Red - $15.90

More stripe action. Perfect tee if you are going to be battling it out with the crowds for a beer on Robinson Street this Valentine’s Day.

$50ish

Express – Modern Fit Oxford Shirt in Pink Sorbet - $39.50

To me, there is nothing hotter than a guy that can pull off pink. This is a take on an old classic. Gotta have it in your closet, if you are man enough that is…

J. McLaughlin – Silk Print Bow Tie - $45.00

We all know there is a big bow tie wearing culture in RVA -- we are in the South, for goodness sake. I happen to love this pink patterned one from J. McLaughlin. They make exquisite ties at a great price point.

Splurge

Need Supply – Shawl Cardigan - $460.00

This sweater is not for your average beau, but one that is willing to take fashion risks.

J. Crew – Red Chambray Utility Shirt - $98.00

Lots of chambray on the runway for Spring. For those not familiar, it’s a lightweight plain weave cotton cloth. This .J Crew option will be perfect for Valentine’s Day and give you a head start on your Spring wardrobe.

Key to the Cure: Passion for fashion raises awareness

Courtney Skunda — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 10:00:09 +0000

For those who have gotten to know me through my writing, you have probably gathered that I am passionate, if not obsessive, about fashion. So, I was ecstatic when VCU Massey Cancer Center asked me to be a part of this year’s Saks Fifth Avenue’s Key to the Cure, presented by U.S. Trust and scheduled for Thursday, October 21st. Saks at Stony Point Fashion Park has joined forces with VCU Massey Cancer Center, our only National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated cancer center in Central Virginia, to be the sole benefactor of this event. The two have partnered together since Saks opened at Stony Point Fashion Park in 2003. Last year, the event raised $30,000, all of which went to women’s cancer research at VCU Massey Cancer Center.

My Story

I suppose that I should also explain my other passion, which is raising money and awareness for cancer research. Yes, it is one of many causes that I raise awareness for as part of my job at the Virginia BioTechnology Research Park, but it's the one dearest to my heart.

Five years ago I made a routine trip to the dermatologist’s office, and they wanted to send me on my way after seeing almost no blemishes on my skin. I decided to point out to the doctor one spot on my forehead that had been bothering me. It was a small pink dot where the skin had soften and not healed. She said “Oh, Courtney, it’s nothing.” I assured her it was something, and after insisting she took a biopsy.

Three weeks has passed until I finally received a call from the lab. They said, “Ms. Skunda, your test was positive for carcinoma…how soon can you come in for surgery?” I remember stopping in my tracks and thinking “What?! I’m 25 years old and I have skin cancer? How is that possible?” The lab technician decided to comfort me by saying that it was not melanoma, so it had not spread to my other organs, so I at least had that in my favor.

Shortly thereafter I went to see the top doc at VCU Dermatology. He was a little perplexed that someone so young could have a carcinoma exactly like mine. He said it was possibly caused from not wearing sunscreen before the age of 5, but he couldn’t be sure; it also could have been genetic.

My first surgery was what they call Moh’s Surgery, which is when they surgically remove each layer of tissue of your skin and place it under a microscope until the skin is cancer free. Unfortunately for me, once they starting removing the tissue, they found more cancerous tissue. So, I was left with a big gaping hole in my forehead. For a case like mine, they then send you home until the following day when you go in for round two: reconstructive surgery. I was really lucky that Richmond is home to the Cancer Reconstructive Center where they specialize in cases like this. They did a fantastic job fixing me up, and after a year or so of visits, my face started to look like normal again. My life now consists of body scans at the dermatologist every four months and biopsies when things look suspicious. I also buy SPF 70 or above sunscreen in bulk and don’t go outdoors without generously applying it.

Key To The Cure

If you love fashion or just love supporting the cause of women’s cancer research, there are so many reasons why you should come to Key to the Cure. First and foremost, there will be incredible drinks and food that evening. Tastings will be set up around the store from the area’s finest restaurants, includin: Cakes by Graham, TJ’s Restaurant and Lounge, Morton’s, Six Burner, Pearl’s Cupcakes, P.F. Changs, The Melting Pot, Topeka’s Steakhouse, and Wild Ginger. While you sip on signature cocktails by Richmond’s own Bobby Kreuger, you can dance the evening away to music by Emme St. James and Her Jazz Gentlemen.

For those more interested in partaking in the fashion indulgences of that evening, there will be plenty. Virginia’s own Temple St. Clair will be hosting a trunk show just for this special event. Temple is extremely well known for her gorgeous pendant necklaces and work with gold and semi-precious stones. Her fine jewelry collection is now sold in luxury retailers all over North America, Europe, and Asia, including Saks Fifth Avenue.

Every year, a famous designer creates a commemorative T-shirt for the event that is sold in Saks nationwide. This year Donna Karan designed a stylish T-shirt, modeled by actress Uma Thurman. You can purchase one at Saks for $35 with 100 percent of the proceeds going to VCU Massey Cancer Center. And, for shopaholics like me, Saks will have special shopping incentives available that evening through the 24th of October with proceeds going to Massey. So, make sure to ask a Saks associate about how your purchase can help support Massey.

A special addition to the Richmond Key to the Cure event will be the White Coats for the Cure Fashion Show. Individuals touched by cancer (including myself), as well as researchers at Massey, will be modeling white lab coats that have been imaginatively designed by local artists, including Andras Bality, Bill Fisher, Matt Lively, Ann McLean, Cindy Neuschwander, Heidi Trepanier, and Kay Unger. After the event the lab coats will be auctioned off with proceeds going to Massey.

Key to the Cure is scheduled for Thursday, October 21st at 6pm at Saks Fifth Avenue in Stony Point Fashion Park. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased online. For more information on this event or to purchase tickets, please visit the Massey website.

Patriotic chic

Courtney Skunda — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 16:00:45 +0000

With the Fourth of July right around the corner, your calendar is probably starting to go on overload with all the invites to BBQs, pool parties, and family gatherings for the big holiday weekend. If you're anything like me, you might be thinking, "WHAT am I going to wear?" After all, it is our country’s birthday, so shouldn’t we dress up for the special occasion? I don’t recommend that you wrap yourself in the American flag, but I think adding a bit of red, white, and blue to your look is a fun way to get into the spirit of Independence Day. To make it easier on you, I scoured RVA’s local malls and boutiques to find some great Independence Day looks.

For the ladies

$25 and under

This light weight summery number from Forever 21 ($16.90) is sure to keep you cool as you hit up all your parties this holiday. Pair it with red flip flops from Old Navy ($3.50) to show your patriotic side.

Image courtesy of Forever 21

$25-$50

Nautical stripes are quintessential summer. Ever since Coco Chanel sported the timeless pattern on a boatneck shirt, it has become a popular summer choice for fashion-forward women all around the world. I happen to love this nautical pattern dress from Abercrombie & Fitch ($39.80). It’s summery, simple, and with just the right touch of "USA."

$50-$75

Spending your 4th of July vacation at the “Rivah” or beach? These glossy red gladiators by Tory Burch ($64.90, available at Nordstrom) are perfect with a white or navy cotton cover-up. Just because you’re hanging by the water doesn’t mean you can’t do it in style, right?

Something to splurge on

This Milly Ruffled Cotton Wrap Dress from Saks Fifth Avenue ($350) is a great investment piece. Why? Because you can wear it to a party or wear it to work on a hot, summer day. Make it 4th of July festive by changing out the ribbon belt with red, white, and blue ribbon from your local Ben Franklin Craft store.

Image courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

For the men

$25 and under

I love these “critter” shorts from Old Navy ($25) with a white polo or button down already in your closet. They are a spitting image of some much pricier ones at a few top tier men’s stores in town. Also, it’s a way to be fun on the Fourth without going all out wearing stars and stripes.

Image courtesy of Old Navy

$25-$50

A belt is a nice accessory to add a little red, white and blue without going overboard. J. McLaughlin has some of the most unique ribbon belts in town. I especially love the skull and cross bones on this one! ($48)

$50-$75

There’s no reason you can’t celebrate the holiday while you’re lounging by the pool or swimming in the Ocean. This Quicksilver board short ($59.50, available at Nordstrom) is not only comfortable and quick to dry, but a perfect mix of red and blue!

Image courtesy of Nordstrom

Something to splurge on

This summer collection shirt from Ledbury ($125 and pictured above, courtesy of Ledbury) is the perfect way to dress it up this 4th of July. Gingham has been a staple fabric for years, but the navy color gives it a modern twist. Pair it with some khaki shorts and you are ready to hit up your BBQs.

VCU student helps fight cancer in style

Courtney Skunda — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 16:00:53 +0000

Two years ago, Brittany Burke, a fashion merchandising student at VCU, received news that her little brother, Brandon, was fighting a rare form of cancer. Just 16 years old at the time, Brandon was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare disease in which cancer cells are found in soft tissue or bone marrow. Brandon left his family home in Poconos, Pennsylvania to be treated and participate in clinical research at the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. After undergoing several treatments and surgeries, Brandon’s leg was amputated. He is now cancer free and back to the active lifestyle he lived before his diagnosis. His story has inspired those who are blessed to know him, especially his sister Brittany.

Back in Richmond after her brother’s ordeal, Brittany searched for a meaningful way to become involved with the fight against cancer. She approached VCU Massey Cancer Center with the idea of hosting a fashion charity event to raise money for cancer research. Massey was excited to work with her and helped her organize her fashion show, named Crossing the Line, during Richmond Fashion Week.

“Brandon’s determination and positive outlook on life after treatment inspired me to get involved on a local level with cancer fundraising,” said Brittany.

This year will mark the second year Brittany and VCU Massey Cancer Center partner up to host Crossing the Line during Richmond Fashion Week. Last year, over 100 guests attended the event, which raised over $2,000 for Massey. “This year, I know we will far surpass that. I do not like to set specific goals and would just rather put my all into the event, but I would like to aim to raise $10,000,” said Brittany.

So what should you expect to see if you attend Crossing the Line? Brittany and her fellow students have pulled the latest fashions from local boutiques to be modeled on the runway. Carytown favorites Eurotrash, Pink, and Roan will be in attendance, as well as Short Pump bridal shop Alfred Angelo and Richmond-based online dress company, Shabby Apple.

Pink Co-Owner Deborah Boschen said that she has watched Richmond Fashion Week grow and thinks that this is going to be a breakthrough year.

“I’m proud of their efforts because it requires so much work and passion to produce. We’ve given the stylist, Brittany Burke, artistic control to pull clothing and accessories from Pink that represent her vision for the show and we can’t wait to see the final product,” said Deborah.

This year’s runway theme is “Grecian Influences,” which remains predominant in the fashion industry despite its introduction several seasons ago. Brittany said the reason for choosing this year’s theme was to “aim for a very feminine, soft show,” which she believes will have a wide appeal.

And don’t think the evening includes only a fashion show. They have much more in store, including a cocktail reception, music, and a silent auction. Dress to impress and come check out the latest fashions at Crossing the Line this Friday, April 23 at Crittenden Studios (201 W. 7th Street) at 6:30pm. Tickets can be purchased through VCU Massey Cancer for $45 per individual ticket and $80 per couple. All proceeds of this event will go directly to the VCU Massey Cancer Center, Richmond's only National Cancer Institute designated cancer center, which specializes in research and treatment of rare forms of cancer. The hard work and commitment of hundreds of doctors and researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center provide hope for people like Brandon--but they can't do it without the generosity of the community.

The wearin’ o’ the green

Courtney Skunda — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:00:33 +0000

With St. Patty’s Day right around the corner, I got to thinking about this Irish holiday that we celebrate by wearing green. When I think of the Irish, a few things immediately come to mind: Guinness, U2, Notre Dame, Michael Flatley, and of course, how hot Leo DiCaprio was in Gangs of New York. I thought these were fair associations until I shared them with my boyfriend who happens to be 100% Irish and a dual citizen of the US and Ireland. He was slightly mortified.

In an effort to save face, I sought to learn more about his homeland and to provide you all with some history, along with some fabulous green clothing options. I promise not to bore you with all the details, but the story of why we wear green will hopefully motivate you to get into the St. Patty’s Day spirit (if drinking Guinness guilt-free wasn’t enough already!)

“The Wearin’ o’ the Green” is an anonymously-penned Irish street ballad dating back to 1798 and has become quite famous over the years. In opposition to British rule, the bitter and discontented Irish Catholics began to organize, and in 1791 they formed a political group called the United Irishmen. The symbol of the United Irishmen was a green banner with a harp on it.

In 1798, the United Irishmen stood their final ground against the British at the Battle of Vinegar Hill. The Irish were greatly outnumbered, and thousands under the green banner died during this battle. From this time forward, green has been a symbol of Irish unity and identity. How the tradition of pinching started for those not wearing green, I’ll save that for another day!

So, that's enough of a history lesson. Let’s get down to business! What will you be wearing this St. Patty’s Day? Green, of course, but with style this year, thanks to a little help from me. It’s not a color that some of us see much in our closets, so here are some great options to keep your look fresh. Remember, St. Patty’s Day falls on a weekday this year, so be mindful of selecting work-appropriate items. And don't be too stuffy to get into the spirit of things! After all, you don’t want that creepy coworker pinching you for not wearing green.

For the ladies

$20 and under

Women’s Studded Ballet Flat, Old Navy, $15. Slip these on with some skinny pants and a jacket, and you are set for work.

Image courtesy of Old Navy

UO Leather Wrap Bracelet, Urban Outfitters, $12. This is a great option if you don’t want to flaunt too much green in the office. Leather bracelets were hot this season and are all the rage for spring and summer too!

Image courtesy of Urban Outfitters

$20-$50

Country Trench Coat, Forever 21, $39.80. I am totally in love with this coat -- and it’s a great price and will last you through the spring. I can imagine myself in it walking the streets of Dublin. Be sure to check out the black gingham detail on the trim and buttons.

Image courtesy of Forever 21

Cherished Trinkets Necklace, Anthropologie, $38. This necklace would be perfect with a white blouse to make the green and gold tones pop.

Image courtesy of Anthropologie

Something to splurge on

Joie Petunia Silk Dress, Saks Fifth Avenue, $168. Pair this dress with some black leggings, a long sweater, and some ballet flats to get a work-appropriate look. Then you will have a killer dress to wear out on the weekends too!

Image courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Stella McCartney Dress, Roan, $695. I know, expensive, but really not that bad of a price for an off- the- runway look by Stella. Kelley green was huge in her collection this year, so you know this dress will be stylish through the summer.

Image courtesy of Cobblestone Couture

For the men

$20 and under

Tipped Multis-Stripe Sock, J.Crew, $12.50. Work in a really conservative office? Then a nice pair of green and navy striped socks might be your best option.

Image courtesy of JCrew

UO Spring Plaid Tie, Urban Outfitters, $19. This tie is definitely for the Fan hipsters out there. The super skinny tie is very Ryan Seacrest, but I love the blue and green plaid!

Image courtesy of Urban Outfitters

$20-$50

Cotton V-Neck Sweater, Express, $39.50. Wear a button-down underneath, put on some khaki pants, and you are set!

Image courtesy of Express

Something to splurge on

St. Patrick’s Day Tie, Peter Blair, $75. Don’t know Dick?…Fowlkes, that is. Well, you should!. He makes amazing, one-of-a-kind ties that are comparable to those by Hermes or Ferragamo. He’s been making men in RVA look great for years now.

Image courtesy of Peter Blair

Madras Sportc Coat, Brooks Brothers, $298. So, this look may not work for the average man, but it’s perfect for someone who doesn’t mind being a little over the top. Madras never goes out of style, and this particular pattern is about as Irish as it gets!

Image courtesy of Brooks Brothers

Remember, having fun, embracing Ireland for a day, and wearing green stylishly is the key. In my best Irish slang, “Don’t be a gobshite, up the yard!”