RVANews

Capital! Style: Spring?

Ted Elmore — Tue, 07 May 2013 12:40:25 +0000

Whether the weather realizes it or not, the calendar says it's spring. Which, in RVA, means GET OUT. We love our outside lifestyle! A walk in our charming neighborhoods and parks, a little vino on a patio, a rock in the river, a trip to a farmers' market, an outdoor museum visit, an al fresco dinner, or a search for unique boutiques--and if you have to throw on a stylish light jacket or sweater to do it, so be it.

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Annie: more than OK, with a smoothie from Urban Farmhouse and a smooth style all her own; Shockoe Design District

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Drawing glances in Carytown.

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RVA surf style in a reluctant spring. Rookery Beach.

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Shareeka, with the Brown's Island fountain.

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I met Chelsea and Cole as I rushed to catch a spectacular sunset from Oregon Hill's overlook. When I asked if I could take a photo, Chelsea quipped, "You're not going to steal my soul, are you?" I reassured her with a "no" but did admit that I might steal her style. Quickly she retorted, "Not possible my friend, this is one of a kind." Quite true--though still plotting to steal her boots.

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Owning all brown in front of HENSE's technicolor hues; Power Plant at the Canal Walk

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Levi's with Louis: donning designer clothing with denim; The American Civil War Center

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Sparkling in the sculpture garden; VMFA

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Staring at the sun on Brown's Island.

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Dom, strong like a bull (or bison); Maymont

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Minimalism and maximalism, mastered; Carytown

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Cynthia, Arianne, Nikki, empty wine glasses; VMFA

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Kickin it in the afternoon sun; Brown's Island

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Black is the new black; Carytown

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The jean jacket may be our most enduring garment; Maymont

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Fit, color, and cool shoes: can't lose; Tredegar Iron Works

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An old soul, Jesse's artistic dress and her art objects are elegant in their simplicity, utility, color, and composition; 17th Street Farmers' Market

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Below, the James River roars with approval; The Pipeline

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These two friends were having a blast and looking good in a blast of
color; Carytown

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April shines in the April sun on Brown's Island.

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Capital! Style: Winter

Ted Elmore — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:54:26 +0000

You may have noticed Capital! Style has been on an extended hiatus. In August, our erstwhile author and inspiration, RVA arts luminary Brian McDaniel, put down his pen and Nikon for a minute and left us wanting for a while. So while Brian is busy leading RVA fashion at luxury clothier Ledbury, we were left to follow it.

Lucky for RVA, in addition to helping drive the great things Ledbury does, Brian continues to blog, promote rad events and people around town, and insist on being about the nicest guy you will ever meet. Of course, he always looks good doing it.

Lucky for RVANews, Brian graciously insisted we carry the Capital! Style flag in his stead, and all the fashionable folks around here provided plenty of fodder for even the most amateur of photographers.

So, cheers to Brian, to Dirty Richmond, and to the clean looks on all of RVA.

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Brian, in custom Shockoe Denim selvedge jeans and Ledbury's Red Starks Gingham Twill shirt; Shockoe Design District

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Amour outside Fiamour; Carytown

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Caroline melts snow in Shockoe

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From glam to basics--Both equally efficacious

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The essentials: apple, iphone, Starbucks, smart suit; Shockoe Design District

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Boots: Made for walking; Carytown

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Meet beautiful people at the murals

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Commuter; Carytown

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Pensive at The Poe; Church Hill

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Mira reflects on her masterfully mixed vintage; Carytown

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Look the part when you visit your art; VMFA

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This guy's coat is as good as...well..

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Val wows in the West End

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Cutting up in Carytown

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RVA's best looking extended family?

Capital! Style, August

Brian McDaniel — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 12:26:40 +0000

The level of swagger in Richmond has been through the roof this summer, and this is no secret. In this edition of Capital! Style we highlight our favorite looks of the last two months and at the Johnny Z Festival, 29th Annual Carytown Watermelon Festival, and around the city. In addition to boat hats and vintage dresses, it would not be a Capital! Style summer without the usual cut-off denim, and effortless style.

At the Johnny Z Festival

With her vintage cat-eye glasses and pattern dress, Samantha Foster is in a class of her own.

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A new friend to Capital! Style, Didi, a very crafty lady and the purveyor of vintage goods at Ultra Violet Vintage.

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We’ve said it before and we will say it again, nothing looks cooler than a plain white t-shirt.

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Carytown Watermelon Festival

Happened to run into local fashion blogger Chris Newell outside of B-Sides Thrift Boutique.

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Perhaps the coolest mom of any Richmond resident, Mrs. Takacs spent the Sunday afternoon with her daughter Justine to enjoy the annual festival together

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Around Richmond

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We took a brief likeness to Midnight in Paris with an inexplicable transportation to a foregone era to photograph this lovely couple at Art Deco’s Gatsby Picnic in Forest Hill Park.

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Last but not least, Maurice of the Photosynthesizers and 70s DJ, Mary, confirm that jean cuffs do not have to be skinny to make it in Richmond.

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All photographs by Brian McDaniel. If you would like to submit a photograph to be included in an upcoming edition of Capital! Style, please email capitalstyle@rvanews.com.

Capital! Style, June

Brian McDaniel — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 10:30:06 +0000

Summer is finally here, and the people of Richmond have never looked better! This edition of Capital! Style catches up with the unfathomably stylish as they enjoy the final days of spring.

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Leney Bredeen proudly displays her latest crafty necklace design for Capital! Style.

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Blacksburg based street-style blogger, David Angel Verde of angelspov.com, spends the afternoon in Carytown and shows off his smart casual style.

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Before an afternoon stroll, fashion blogger Chris Newell snaps a few pictures of her quintessential spring outfit for her blog aringtoit.com. (Photograph from Chris Newell)

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Catching up with Larissa Wisniewski, or the RVA Fashion Girl, before sunset.

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If you would like to submit a photograph to be included in an upcoming edition of Capital! Style, please email capitalstyle@rvanews.com.

Capital! Style, May

Brian McDaniel — Fri, 18 May 2012 10:00:28 +0000

Sometimes the weekdays are long, but as soon as the clock strikes 5:00 on Friday afternoon, freedom awaits! This edition of Capital! Style catches up with some of the many style-savvy individuals of Richmond in their fashionable weekend apparel.

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In Richmond, bikes are one of the best accessories.

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Making her second annual appearance in Capital! Style, this young designer serves as her own mannequin of her couture creations.

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Jasmine of KissMyFashion.org photographed this fashionable pair outside of Rumors Thrift Boutique on Harrison Street.

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If you would like to submit a photograph to be included in an upcoming edition of Capital! Style, please e-mail capitalstyle@rvanews.com.

Capital! Style, April

Brian McDaniel — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:19:22 +0000

April weekends in Richmond usually mean three things: relaxing, garden tours, and festivals. This special edition of Capital! Style focuses on the latter and finds the best dressed Richmonders at the latest round of weekend festivals that the city had to offer.

First we'll look at VCU’s Intercultural Festival, then head to the canal for the inaugural Street Art Festival, and conclude with the environmentally friendly Earth Day Festival.

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Capital! Style, March

Brian McDaniel — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 10:00:17 +0000

Spring has blossomed in full effect, but before moving on to warmer temperatures and greener pastures, Capital! Style takes a moment to reflect on the final days of winter. Camel coats return, lightweight jackets, and sharp layers help these stylish residents of the River City bid farewell to the winter that never was.

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Larissa Wisniewski creatively layers her cheetah print cardigan over her chunky turtleneck sweater dress and completes the outfit with a few accessories.

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In his parka and Wolverine boots, William Godwin proves he knows style.

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When executed so perfectly, white can be worn anytime of the year.

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Tori in her finest, pre-spring apparel. Photograph from her blog Fashion Trends & More.

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Taking a break from skating down the busy Carytown sidewalks to show off socks for Capital! Style.

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Shanice White spotted on Harrison Street by streetpeepervcu.tumblr.com

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2012 guide to men’s spring fashion

Brian McDaniel — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:21:38 +0000

After a ridiculously warm winter, you can now finally start dressing for 60+ degree temperatures. Talk about global warming! By analyzing recent weather trends, you may never have to wear a winter coat again. Since you no longer have the fortune to hide underneath your down lined parka, it's time to stock your wardrobes with clothes that you are proud to wear. Use this guide to discover the best of what Richmond retailers have to offer for the upcoming season.

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From the classic brand with the laurel wreath, the Fred Perry twin tipped polo is a classic in every sense of the word. Inspired by vintage tennis attire, this warm weather staple fits the way a polo shirt should: cut slim on the sides and gently hugging the biceps.

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Italian woven, unbelievably soft, locally owned, and better fitting than anything offered from the big box retailers in the West End; simply put, Ledbury makes really great shirts! These shirts transition perfectly from day to night. Button to the top with a necktie for the office and then ditch the tie, roll up the sleeves, and relax as soon as 5 o’clock rolls around. Ledbury just launched their first round of short run shirts for the spring and this is a sneak peak at the Goshen plaids that will be included in later rounds.

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Lapis, indigos, navies, and azures: blue is the color of the season. Need Supply Co. carries a variety of blue oxfords--from the much favored heritage brand Guiltman Brothers Vintage as well as Sidian, Ersatz & Vanes. Solid color oxfords are a staple but also have some fun by incorporating a mix of check and gingham patterns into your wardrobe to stay afloat in the sea of cerulean.

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American Apparel short sleeve denim button-up shirts available in dark and light indigo washes.

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Barely worn shorts starting at an easy $8 at Rumors Thrift Boutique will definitely help save on some cash.

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Controversial rapper Tyler the Creator’s Hawaiian shirts helped breathe new life into floral prints nearly a year ago, and this year they are back in even greater force. Florals have unjustly received a bad rep over the years, and it may be hard to avoid the instinctive urge to pair them with sandals, tube socks, and fanny packs. This may take a while for some to adopt but be brave and reap the benefits! This short sleeve button up from Mark McNairy available at Need Supply Co. is lightweight, slightly tailored, and the perfect shirt for those lazy afternoons and warm spring/summer nights that we all long for. Think more like Havana in the 50’s and less like Honolulu during tourist season.

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The Military Surplus Tee from American Apparel is the best t-shirt I’ve purchased in years! Crafted out of super heavy-weight and highly durable heather cotton, this is the kind of shirt that could survive a war.

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Perfect for every imaginable occasion, this is the multipurpose bag that dreams are made of. Hand crafted by a women artisan co-op in Bangladesh and then finished in California, the golden jute fiber body, natural vegetable-dyed leather straps, and antique nickel rivets make this an exceptionally executed bag. The Richmond Market Bag by Apolis is available exclusively at Need Supply Co., and with “Richmond Virginia USA” printed unapologetically on the bag’s exterior, you can represent Richmond everywhere you go!

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Graduate from high school book bags and consider one of these military inspired bags from Urban Outfitters.

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They're worn by the likes of Jonny Quest and are the shoes that helped Benny “The Jet” Rodriguez heroically escape the Beast in the Sandlot: PF Flyers are finally back. Originally manufactured in the early 1930’s by BF Goodrich, the classic canvas sneaker rose to popularity during the 60’s and then suddenly spent decades of decline and a subsequent quiet dormancy until their resurgence a few years ago. West Coast Kix in Carytown stocks a variety of PF Flyers in classic and contemporary styles.

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Lighter color suede feels more seasonal during the warmer months and those spontaneous spring showers may lead to a highly stressful afternoon when wearing them. Keep them pristine or scuff them up a little. Nearly every men’s shoe brand offers a pair of bucks and/or desert boots these days but go with the classic makers, G.H. Bass and Clark’s Originals, and you won’t look silly wearing the copy cats. Both available at Need Supply Co.

Capital! Style, February

Brian McDaniel — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:00:29 +0000

It looks like 2012 is quickly becoming a very fashionable year. With numerous days of abnormally warm weather, there’s much to say about winter--or this year's lack of one. Looking through these pictures, many of these looks would fit right at home in the spring, and that necessarily isn’t a bad thing! So in that case, Viva Winter!...Or at least this one.

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Sisters with impeccable style.

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Believe it or not, nearly everything in this outfit is thrifted or second hand! Julia’s luck and mastery of thrift finds gives her a unique and often changing look. Photograph from her blog, http://labelleoiselle.blogspot.com/.

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Even though it’s winter, or “winter,” Brandon’s bright cardigan demonstrates that he isn’t a man restrained to the muted colors of the season.

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Willing to step from behind the register during a busy afternoon at Rumors for a quick picture, the women there always hold it down.

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No matter the time or age, cardigans are always in style.

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When picking your best friends, make sure they dress as well as you do! On a weekend stroll through Carytown, Rachel and Merry are the perfect best friend pair.

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Dressing the part and pulling it off better than anyone else could ever dream of.

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Please submit your picture to be included in next Capital! Style by emailing capitalstyle@rvanews.com

Capital! Style, December

Brian McDaniel — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 12:58:09 +0000

Preparing to nestle by the fire, or shop for loved ones (or themselves) around town this edition of Capital! Style features Richmond’s most stylish residents as they prepare to embrace the end of 2011.

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Easily Richmond’s best-dressed resident by a landslide, Dekota is always daring and willing to experiment with his styling in the name of fashion. Photograph from streetsophisticato.blogspot.com.

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Photograph by Hunter Rolfe from 365daysofthrift.tumblr.com.

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If you would like to have your picture included in the next edition of Capital! Style, please email capitalstyle@rvanews.com.

Capital! Style, November

Brian McDaniel — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 18:11:43 +0000

As the color of the leaves continue to change and daylight hours become increasingly shorter, stylish Richmonders enjoy the blissful autumn weather in their finest garb. Whether dressed in layers for an afternoon of bike riding or wearing a favorite sweatshirt on a long day of work, the people of Richmond always look good. Fall is here! Make sure to get out and enjoy this amazing weather before winter shuts us all in!

Spring or fall, floral prints make any day brighter.

Leave the oversized jerseys in the closet on game day, and consider endorsing your favorite team in a retro sweatshirt. Note: this may not be a good idea if your favorite team hasn’t won a championship since the 70s.

Julia showcases transitional style at its best by mixing the lightness of summer dressing with a chunky fall sweater on one of the many unseasonably warm days we’ve been having in Richmond. Photograph from Julia’s blog.

Speaking of transitional dressing, thick scarves and a light top-layer make a perfect pair for warm autumn afternoons.

Stripes never go out of style and are great for any season, like these from Sydney.

Channeling timeless cool with the assistance of a briefcase and a vintage fedora on West Franklin Street.

Hugel is no stranger to Capital! Style and here he is once again, stylishly holding up walls on Harrison Street.

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If you would like to have your picture included in the next edition of Capital! Style, please email capitalstyle@rvanews.com.

Capital! Style: Mighty fine folks

Brian McDaniel — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 13:43:38 +0000

Last weekend’s Richmond Folk Festival brought out thousands of locals to delight in three days of picture perfect autumn weather. Lazy afternoons faded into lazy evenings, and of course great music. The Richmond stylish were well represented at the festival, and the biggest trend of the festival was exactly what one would expect: wide brimmed cowboy hats with equally stylish boots. Along with expectation, there were many surprises and as the sounds of the mandolin, the twang of instruments filled the warm air, Richmond took in the festival in perfect style.

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Fresh off the Old-Time Fiddle contest, this urban cowboy stops for the paparazzi.

I saw many people wearing rolled up denim paired with classic canvas sneakers. Such a perfect casual daytime look.

Ukulele player and singer-song writer Alison Self whirls on the dance floor to honky-tonk swing. Make sure to stop by the Urban Farmhouse on October 22nd for a great performance!

The freshest kids.

The master of accessories.

See you at the festival next year and don’t forget your dancing shoes!

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If you would like to have your picture included in the next edition of Capital! Style, please email capitalstyle@rvanews.com.

Capital! Style

Brian McDaniel — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 10:00:16 +0000

Without warning Richmond has transformed from an inescapable sweltering city into an autumnal oasis. I’m not complaining and neither are any of the stylish people in this month's Capital! Style. In this edition you can see how the Richmond stylish are coping with the change in temperature: alternating the length of their sleeves, pants, and skirts. Fall is the perfect time of a year for layering, and showing off your best clothes. The following individuals are off to a great start!

Slacks on him, and a light dress on her make this a great casual look.

Nothing will ever look as cool than a plain white T.

Alexa poses for a quick photograph of her flawless 70’s chic before heading out. Photograph by Alexa Assion.

Spotted on the VCU campus. Rolled up denim and loafers are a personal favorite. Photo courtesy of From the Runway to RVA.

Layering up for fall. From the Runway to RVA.

A great look for late summer evening and would go perfectly with a cardigan when temperatures start cooling.

When walking around Carytown with your friends, Slurpees make the best accessory.

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If you would like to have your picture included in the next edition of Capital! Style, please email capitalstyle@rvanews.com.

Capital! Style

Brian McDaniel — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 14:22:10 +0000

During the last few months a few fashion trends have surfaced on the streets of Richmond. With its patrons expressing themselves with bold color, charming hats, and lovely florals, summer style in Richmond has never looked better.

Color

Colors always catch the eye and summer is the time to be a little bold and a little daring. These Richmonders have a knack for hues, representing the spectrum in the best way.

Hats

The right hat can make any outfit better. On your way out the door, I would recommend picking a sturdy straw hat to not only shade you from the sun, but to look as cool as these three.

Summer florals

Who says that spring is the only time for flowers? Summer is perfect too, and these girls look lovely with flowers on their dress, blouse, and even in the hair.

Sandals and Tanks

Let’s face it, the heat this summer has been ridiculous. During the heat wave, I spent as much time in front of the AC as possibility. Just in case the 100+ degree temperatures return, be smart like these two and be prepared by wearing a comfortable pair of sandals and letting your arms bare all.

Stripes

Worn vertical or horizontal, skinny or bold, stripes never go out of style. If you are lucky, you may be able to convince someone to match you.

If you would like to have your picture included in the next edition of Capital! Style, please email capitalstyle@rvanews.com.

Capital! Style

Brian McDaniel — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 10:00:54 +0000

Broad Street Fashion

For much of the 20th century, Broad Street was the heart of retail, life, and culture in the city of Richmond. Featuring large department stores such as Miller & Rhoads, and Thalhimers, the style savvy, graced a portion of this 15-mile stretch, strolled the sidewalks and looked good doing it. Although the department stores are long gone, style on Broad still remains.

Despite the summer heat, light and colorful layers add another dimension to any outfit.

In their neutral colors, Dan and Tess are ready for a night out on the town.

I love the glasses on this hip and chic mom.

While busking, a good outfit certainly helps get you a few extra dollars or at least a photograph.

Avoiding traffic and taking the time for a quick pose.

Floral prints, sandals, and a breezy blouse, make this a perfect summer outfit.

Photograph by Leney Breeden for From the Runway to RVA.

Capital! Style

Brian McDaniel — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 15:50:21 +0000

Style never ceases to amaze me in Richmond. Maybe it is something in the murky water of the James River, or maybe it’s just something we are all collectively born with. Not only do we demand our sweet tea and lazy days at the river, we love to wear our cowboy boots, sundresses (on the girls), cut offs (on the guys and girls), and jean vests while enjoying those things. This is a secret that went public years ago, but Richmond is no longer a place to live, consider it a way of life.

Can you believe that everything Johnny is wearing is either thrift or from a discount store? This outfit is impeccable!

With David’s Hawaiian print trunks and Casey’s naval inspired bathing suit. These two are easily Richmond’s best-dressed summer time couple.

Three friends, three dresses, plus a pair of boots = classic southern style.

A perfectly dressed springtime pair. Photograph by Molly McManus.

Showing off his aviators and authentic military pins and ribbons. This is a classic military inspired outfit with a gritty Richmond twist by pairing them with a jean vest.

If you ever wondered how to perfectly wear white denim (and you should), this would be it!

Submission by: From the Runway to RVA.

Everything about this guy exudes confidence and cool. Almost nothing looks better than a plain white tee…especially when you’re playing a keyboard in the middle of Carytown with your closest friends, and attracting attention from people passing by on the sidewalk.

Capital! Style

Brian McDaniel — Tue, 24 May 2011 10:00:42 +0000

Spring is finally here, so in this edition of Capital! Style except more color, more patterns, and (a little) more skin from Richmond’s most fashionable residents! I’ve waited five months for this and it’s finally time to throw away those sweaters and muted hues and embrace the new season.

My only hope is that I could be half as cool as she is when I grow up.

Dapper suit with an attention grabbing tie. This man knows how to dress to impress.

Photograph by Sarah Jones. Bright colors and bold patterns make these sisters and best friends the most stylish sibling duo.

Photograph from carythemodel.com

If you can get away with dressing a like, why not?

For picture submissions, e-mail them to capitalstyle@rvanews.com to be featured in the next edition.

Capital! Style…Moms!

Brian McDaniel — Mon, 09 May 2011 17:11:06 +0000

"Hey!," you may be exclaiming, "Mother's Day has long since past! What are you doing running these pictures of moms?!" Well, dear readers, turns out mothers are particularly elusive creatures and it took until just this very minute to obtain these exclusive (and awesome) photos of moms in their natural habitat.

Capital Style!

Brian McDaniel — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 10:00:29 +0000

Richmond Fashion Weeks seems to get bigger and better every year. This edition of Capital! Style captures what was worn in, out of, and around this year’s RVA Fashion Week.

The classic Ray-Ban Wayfarer makes the perfect pair sunglasses for spring or any season.

Wearing accessorize can sometimes be tricky; however, this gentleman’s rings, necktie bar and hat, take his outfit to the next level.

Britt Sebastian’s Hollywood Cemetery menswear label showing at the RVA Fashion Week Finale.

Perfect colors for an early spring evening.

Derrick is always put together, but what else would you expect from someone that is a manager at Richmond’s Hugo Boss?

Uncreated/Recreated was one of my favorite shows from Fashion Week. The show was comprised of reconstructed designs, animal inspired masks, and puppies strutting the runway.

If you would like to submit a photo for the next edition of Capital Style, please send it to capitalstyle@rvanews.com. All submissions are welcome!

Capital! Style

Brian McDaniel — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 10:00:04 +0000

In the Capital City there are signs that spring is just around the corner. Finally we have more hours of sunlight, the faint sound of birds chirping, and it is almost time to throw our winter coats in the closet. In this edition of Capital! Style, see what Richmonders are wearing to cope with the final days of winter.

Their playfulness with patterns and colors make these two one of my favorite couples.

After meeting Grace, she told me that she bought a blank tote from Muji (one of my favorite stores! in New York City) and then screen printed a series with a friend. One side says NO THANKS and the other says YES PLEASE.

Interesting combination of a snowboard jacket paired with boots.

Kendall, Richmond local and member of Saddle Sores bike crew hanging out in the Nolita neighborhood of New York City.

Charlie is a Civil War fanatic and he makes his own clothes, like the jacket he is wearing here. It is always exciting to see what Charlie has on and what he has made.

Cardigans, floral, and shades are a #winning combination for any time of year.

One of the best beards in Richmond?

If you would like to submit a photo for the next edition of Capital Style, please send it to capitalstyle@rvanews.com. All submissions are welcome!

Capital! Style: Summer 2010

Tess Shebaylo — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 15:45:29 +0000

Every good Richmonder knows that no matter how hot and humid it gets, using the weather as an excuse not to look your best means you've given up on life. This summer, the folks below woke up in their sweaty bedrooms, shook their fists at the sun, and murmured "I'll never surrender" as they got dressed every morning. To these faithful ones: thanks for always having the energy to leave the house looking like a human being. It's appreciated.

Did you know you can contribute to Capital! Style? Email photos to tess@rvanews.com or submit them to the Capital! Style Flickr group. Let’s see some style from your neck of the woods!

From Dirty Richmond
A fresh-faced oasis in a city full of sweaty people.

From Dirty Richmond
Mega matching accessories and a girl-next-door appeal.

From Tess Shebaylo
Just the right blend of cool colors in this self-made dress from vintage fabric.

From Dirty Richmond
The stylish flight of the bumblebee.

From Dirty Richmond
Do bowties still mean old money?

From Dirty Richmond
Moms, you really can still steal the show.

From Karen Seifert
Vintage dress and threefold sun protection? Yes.

From Dirty Richmond
Cute squared. And pants that drape like a dress? Sign me up.

From Tess Shebaylo
It doesn't get more Richmond than this.

From Dirty Richmond
Unexpected but true recipe: Equal parts yellow fairy princess and structured saddle heels make perfection.

From Dirty Richmond
I love that rolled-up jeans are finally replacing jorts as the summertime uniform. I only wish it would happen faster.

From Dirty Richmond
Soft on the top, ferocious on the bottom.

From Tess Shebaylo
Perfect pairing of vintage satin and modern bling.

Capital! Style

Tess Shebaylo — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 15:59:48 +0000

Spring was here for a second, but the sweltering Richmond summer has officially settled in. Let's celebrate.

Did you know you can contribute to Capital! Style? Email photos to tess@rvanews.com or submit them to the Capital! Style Flickr group. Let’s see some style from your neck of the woods!

Photo by Dirty Richmond.

Old-fashioned details with a modern silhouette. Show-stopping.

Photo by Ellen Bucher.

Have I used the word "dapper" before? Oh let's face it, I'm going to use it all the time.

Photo by talman84.

Holey black tights: a summertime favorite.

Photo by talman84.

If it weren't for the Grecian sandals, I'd think this was taken in the 80s. Love the clothes, hate the wicker. Good thing this isn't a column about furniture.

Photo by talman84.

Oh look, it's the most perfect party dress of all time.

Photo by Dirty Richmond.

Preppy isn't all bad.

Photo by Phil Bowne.

I'll say it again: girly little dresses and tall black boots always win.

Photo by Dirty Richmond.

Here in the south it's all about mastering the art of glistening rather than sweating. Layers still rule, even in summer.

Photo by Ellen Bucher.

Classic. Put-together.

Photo by Dirty Richmond.

The power to wear all white belongs to all of us, not just Depeche Mode. Life is really too short to use the "I love it but I can't pull it off" excuse. Applause to this guy for saving us from the same old thing.

Photo by Dirty Richmond.

Looking stylish but still looking like grown-ups: a talent mastered by few.

Photo by Rumors.

Concert-going attire that's better than Crocs and cargo pants.

Photo by Dirty Richmond.

Mesmerized by the absolute feathery-light-ness of this dress.

Photo by Rumors.

Holy amazing jacket, Batman.

Photo by Diana Mathews.

Comfortable but elegant clothing appropriate for an outdoor wedding: achieved.

Photo by Dirty Richmond.

Cute but FIERCE.

Photo by Dirty Richmond.

Tights: they make shorts okay.

Capital! Style: Richmond Fashion Week edition

Tess Shebaylo — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 16:00:35 +0000

The city's burgeoning community of designers, stylists, and event organizers put on quite a spectacle at last week's Richmond Fashion Week. A mix of styles from local designers, independent boutiques, and mall shops were featured throughout the week at five shows in five locations: the Southern Women's Show, Fab'rik Carytown, CenterStage, Crittenden Studio, and the Hat Factory. The venues were just as diverse as the looks displayed, attracting attendees ranging from the pant-suited West End moms to the spirited, small-town fashionistas sporting their avant-garde haircuts. To be sure, Richmond Fashion Week was nothing like its counterparts in New York and Milan, and the crowds did have to snooze through several shapeless and overly-floral frocks. But for what little they got wrong, the week's organizers got much more right: the gutsy hairstyles, the schizophrenic hemlines, the thumping music, the bright lights swinging to and fro, and the hearts of onlookers beating just a little faster than usual -- in time with the rapid steps of models' stilettos on the catwalk. Still in its infancy, Fashion Week was more impressive than any other two-year-old around, and without a doubt the event has the potential to grow into a real Richmond institution.

Here are a few highlights from this year's shows:

Want more? There are hundreds here.

Capital! Style

Tess Shebaylo — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 11:00:11 +0000

Even in these our coldest of months, a few brave Richmonders have refused to sacrifice style. Lead on, friends.

From Karen Seifert
Black is my favorite color and I'm so glad Richmond agrees with me. Look how un-drab it is with a bright hat and a bright scarf!

From Dirty Richmond
The downtown look: business-appropriate, yet feminine. Hoping to see more from downtown in the coming months...

From Dirty Richmond
See, hats can look good on long-haired girls. Especially with black tights and a miniskirt.

From Dirty Richmond
A furry hat means plenty of warmth without resorting to the same. old. beanie.

From Rumors
A damask print skirt is soft but bold, and a little red flower in the hair adds just the right pop of color.

From Dirty Richmond
Is that a little cameo on her beret? I'll say no more.

From Rumors
Dreary weather is no match for color of this caliber.

From Rumors
Even plaid looks put-together when paired with fitted pants and a belt.

From Rumors
Furs: appropriate for the frozen Russian tundra, and also Richmond.

From Dirty Richmond
It's in the details: the floral scarf, the princess sleeves, the bow-fronted coat, and the Mary Poppins-inspired carpet bag, toughened up properly with leather boots.

From Dirty Richmond
So cute in an "it's the 80s and I'm on my way to aerobics class" kind of a way.

From Dirty Richmond
Shorts and tights have been a definite snowy trend in Richmond lately.

From Dirty Richmond
It seems we always return to library chic. And we LOVE IT.

Got a photo you’d like to submit for inclusion in Capital! Style? Send it to tess@rvanews.com, or submit to the Capital! Style Flickr group. Let’s see some style from your neck of the woods!

Capital! Style

Tess Shebaylo — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:00:15 +0000

A little sparkle, some serious coats, and even a dash of prep. Richmond, you are looking goooooooooooood.

From Dirty Richmond
The skirt, which looks more like a confection than an article of clothing, balances out the businesslike collared shirt and cuffs. Maximum cuteness has been attained.

From Dirty Richmond
College-ready perfection in a cardigan and serious burgundy, with just the right amount of flirty flounce.

From RumorsRVA
There are not enough epic coats around anymore. This guy is leading the good fight -- and that luminous smile doesn't hurt, either.

From Dirty Richmond
See, redheads can wear red and wear it well...just not right next to their hair.

From Karen Seifert
Party-ready dolls: not much needed besides classy dresses and low lighting.

From Dirty Richmond
The black / grey combo is sleek and professional, but the boots keep it hip. A campus WIN.

From Hannah Sullivan
When the skirt says Marie Antoinette and the shrug says Greta Garbo, applause is in order for orchestrating that combination.

From Dirty Richmond
On top of looking all-around amazing, this guy has single-handedly (1) changed my mind about necklaces on guys and (2) renewed my hope in finding the perfect knee-length boots for men.

From Dirty Richmond
This lady proves that preppy can be anything but boring. Epic coat squad REPRESENT!

From Dirty Richmond
Looking put-together and mature, yet feminine, in a high-waisted pencil skirt and ruffly top.

From RumorsRVA
Life's too short to reserve all the sparkly for eveningwear.

Got a photo you’d like to submit for inclusion in Capital! Style? Send it to tess@rvanews.com, or submit to the Capital! Style Flickr group. Let’s see some style from your neck of the woods!

Capital! Style

Tess Shebaylo — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 11:00:48 +0000

Richmonders, you sure don't let the drop in temperatures cramp your style! Take a look at what your fellow River City residents are wearing whilst out and about these days.

From rumorsrva
Librarian-chic: always have and always will love it.

From rumorsrva
Red, black, and blue: patriotic with a certain fierceness.

From Dirty Richmond
This simple plaid shirt and hat manage to look charming in a folk singer kind of a way.

From punchphoto/thomas scott
Prim, neutral, and vintage looks lovely when paired with a bright red bag.

From rumorsrva
Luckily, this girl knows the first rule about floral dresses with an early 90's color scheme: ripped-up black tights are the only thing that can tame them.

From Dirty Richmond
What was that about balancing out florals? Military-inspired jackets will do the trick, too.

From rumorsrva
See, Mom? Long-haired boys can still look polished and mature.

From Dirty Richmond
Pulling off the high-waisted skirt look: not for the faint of heart.

From Dirty Richmond
Mondrian print: tired on paper, fresh on a dress.

From Dirty Richmond
Lilac, in the most unexpected places, cheers up a blazer ensemble immediately.

From Dirty Richmond
Every college campus could benefit from channeling the elegance of a 50s screen siren.

Got a photo you’d like to submit for inclusion in Capital! Style? Send it to tess@rvanews.com, or submit to the Capital! Style Flickr group. Let’s see some style from your neck of the woods!

Capital! Style

Tess Shebaylo — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:50:53 +0000

Soft basics, toughened up with some boots.

Black, grey, and just the right amount of tatter always work.

Classy and ready for class in pinstripes and a bow-tie.

The perfect October accessories are windblown hair, ballet flats, and a blue bicycle.

There should be more shoes that look like they're straight out of the movie Newsies on the streets of Richmond. Way more.

(Photo by Stephanie McFadden)
Those ubiquitous neon sunglasses are all over the place and on both sexes.

(Photo from Angie Cooper)
All covered up in black, but giving way to a little bit of cheerful yellow.

(Photo from rumorsrva)
Glasses and all black: WIN.

Got a photo you'd like to submit for inclusion in Capital! Style? Send it to tess@rvanews.com, or submit to the Capital! Style Flickr group. Let's see some style from your neck of the woods!

Tess Dixon can usually be found writing, crafting, cooking, reading, or exploring somewhere within sight of the city skyline. Her picnic blanket can often be found in fields and cemeteries all over the state of Virginia.

Capital! Style

Tess Shebaylo — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 11:00:18 +0000

Welcome to the first edition of Capital! Style, our newest column featuring examples of the city's most stylish citizens. Here we'll be celebrating everything beautiful, unique, and creative about the way Richmonders choose to present themselves.

A girly top makes even short shorts look pretty and feminine.

Kilts: Old-fashioned, and yet never boring.

Vintage, flirty, and cool.

A bouffant hairstyle dresses up the most casual of outfits.

Flannel jazzes up the classic t-shirt-and-jeans combo.

Baby blue and big bows: not something to be done halfway.

The red belt just makes this dapper gentleman's ensemble.

The maxi-dress: a more grown-up-looking alternative to the standard sundress.

Got a photo you'd like to submit for inclusion in Capital! Style? Send it to tess@rvanews.com. Let's see some style from your neck of the woods!