Faux leather, vegan leather, pleather... call it what you like, but if you’ve been keeping an eye on the fashion scene, you’ve probably noticed that this alternative to leather is stealing the spotlight. Gone are the days when this eco-friendly alternative was considered just a cheap knockoff of the real thing. With fabulous brands like Generation Love, Pistola, and Lavender Brown leading the way, vegan leather is now all about luxe looks without the guilt.

When Emerson Fry introduced their denim line, Twin Doves, we knew we had to give it a try. The same foundations are true of their denim as their ready to wear line. They use quality fabrics and cuts that are wardrobe staples. They are also the softest jeans ever. Sometimes it takes time to “break-in” our jeans, but these already have that feel that you get after you have had a pair of jeans for a few years.

With chlorine, sun and salt water no longer wreaking havoc on our manicures, we’re all in for rocking some new nail looks this fall. Our hands are an extension of our daily look/vibe/mood and keep us feeling polished (pun intended) during the fall madness. While we’ve been out and about in Old Town, we couldn’t help but notice the vast range of shades and styles displayed on our friends’ hands. So we asked our contributors to share the fall hues they’re loving:

Your haircut is more than just a style—it’s a reflection of your personality, lifestyle, and most importantly, the unique features of your face. While many people think certain cuts are only for specific face shapes, the truth is, most haircuts can work for most people, as long as they are adjusted and tailored to the person wearing them.

I know that in Northern Virginia I’m preaching to the choir about voting. The majority of people who can vote in this area are already registered. Hell, registering to vote is the first thing some kids do when they turn 18. I know mine did. While those who can vote are likely registered, I still feel like it’s our responsibility to encourage voting every election cycle. The first thing to do is make a voting plan.

If you enjoy watching someone yell at the television, watch Love is Blind with a divorce attorney. I generally hide under a rock from reality TV, but it was interesting to watch. One of the biggest takeaways though is just how fast this show pushes people to get engaged. And while some people had the kids/no kids discussion, not everyone did. How can you not discuss whether or not you want children?

I am late in writing about our outlet, P.S. The Hive. I would love to say it's a new idea, but many of you might remember Treat, a store that was in Old Town I guess about a decade ago. The concept was basically to make a local outlet store for independent boutiques. Think Nordstrom Rack, but for all the little guys out there. That is basically what we are doing at P.S. The Hive.

The beautiful finishes set with brilliant gemstones and diamonds by designer Mazza are rich in Italian heritage of Torro del Greco, reflect a legacy that spans four generations and is enriched by his travels across Italy. Marvel at the meticulous craftsmanship evident in the bezel-set jewelry, burnished style settings, and distinctive Florentine finishes that effortlessly complement the carefully selected, one-of-a-kind gemstones in his collection.

Welcome to this rare, semi-detached townhome that defines luxury and convenience in historic Alexandria. Spanning four sun-filled levels, this spacious property is among the largest townhomes in the area, featuring the ultimate in modern living with elevator access to every floor.

Patina is delighted to share that we now carry Trudon. The company became known for their highly regarded candles, providing candles for well-known cathedrals and churches throughout Paris, boasting both long-lasting burn time, and flames which didn’t smoke. Since 1737, Trudon has been the largest and most respected wax manufacture in France and their know-how has evolved through the years, always keeping its strong historic traditions and values.

Last fall, I was commissioned to create a large landscape for a client’s home on the Eastern Shore, inspired by a small 18” x 18” study I had completed the year before. I was beyond excited. Not only was this client someone I’ve known for many years, but the study had always lingered in the back of my mind, almost whispering that it was destined for something greater.

The closest to reality TV I get is The Great British Bake Show. I love me some Pru and Paul. The Britts are just so nice to each other when competing. We can use more of that, don’t you think?!  Love is Blind is not something I would normally gravitate to, but since they are in D.C., we thought — what the hell let’s have some fun with it and play BINGO!

The Alexandria Fall Fest is BACK! Join us on Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 11am to 4pm at the scenic River Farm for a day of unforgettable fun. Hosted by The Patterson Group and Alexandria Living Magazine, this year’s event is packed with activities for all ages, making it the perfect fall day for the entire family.

Since our inaugural Heirloom Portrait session at Monday’s Child in 2020, the tradition of capturing timeless children’s portraits has evolved into a cherished event. With a special place in my heart for children, I love creating these timeless images. Heirloom Portraits are photographs you will hand down to your future generations. They capture the true beauty and spirit of a person…of a child…of a moment paused in time.

I kept seeing Suzanne Thibeault’s face on social. She was in group shots on LinkedIn, at openings on Insta…in recaps of networking events. Who was this woman? Then I saw her in person. I felt like one of the cool kids when I was invited to a VIP party for the opening of Atlas Brew Works and Andy’s Pizza in Carlyle, and there she was. I introduced myself by sharing that she was my professional girl crush, because she was making moves. She was not freaked out.

Do you know what excites me about fall and October? Apart from celebrating my parents’ birthdays, football, crunchy leaves and golden hues, it is the perfect balance of ‘cooler weather, I can still do things outside without fear of getting the Zika or ‘humidity exhaustion’ (I bet that’s a thing) - AND it is permission to do none of that and stay inside with a warm cup of cider or ‘a nice calming indoor activity’.

Window treatments can do so much more than just provide privacy. In bustling spaces like kitchens or rooms filled with hard surfaces—think cabinetry, tile, and stone—softening the space is key to enhancing comfort. The absence of upholstered items and rugs can make these areas feel stark and noisy. In one of our recent projects in Villamay, we transformed a cozy kitchen nook with a custom flat Roman shade crafted from a stunning artisan textile.

This weekend we’re celebrating our 21st Anniversary by hosting our biggest ever Citizens of Humanity Trunk Show. I don’t think we have ever had this many styles and such a great variety of cuts and washes. We have skinny jeans, straight jeans, wide-leg, both cropped and long, barrel jeans, slouchy jeans and cargos. The event goes on all weekend and you can always shop online, too!

When you decide to open a business, there's a natural desire to create an amazing space. But this moment became something more. I realized that within this business, I had the opportunity to give my creativity life. With that, I knew I was nurturing a new culture from my unique lens, perspective, and experiences. Redefining vanity became a mantra—a celebration of our self-esteem journeys.

I tend to be a strictly no kitsch girl when it comes to holidays, with the exception of Halloween.  Halloween is the holiday where I break out all of the skeletons, giant spiders, and tombstones. My love of Halloween décor doesn’t stop at home, and each year our collection of spooky floral décor grows at Helen Olivia. Here’s what’s new and frightfully exciting for the season ahead: