
Street Style: Meet Erica Gouse Bledsoe
“Junior League has given me a new path that I’m super passionate about—connections with other nonprofits in the area,” Erica says. “The most rewarding part is being surrounded by like-minded women, who are diverse in background and all want to help their community.” Whether she’s organizing fundraisers, exploring Virginia wineries, or reading 150+ books a year, Erica’s story is rooted in purpose, curiosity, and connection.
Summer Entertaining Starts Here: A Hostess’s Guide from My Home to Yours
We’re entering that joyful summer stretch filled with reasons to gather and gift: end-of-year teacher appreciation, graduations, Father’s Day, Fourth of July, and those last-minute "bring a bottle and come by tonight" evenings with friends. The days fly by, but it’s these little moments—the laughter on the patio, the perfect cocktail glass, the unexpected gift—that linger well into fall. Let’s make summer hosting seamless (and beautiful).
The Haircut That Changed Everything
We’ve all heard it: “When a woman changes her hair, she’s about to change her life.” But at deZEN, we’ve lived it—again and again. So, if you’re standing at the edge of a new chapter, don’t be afraid to start with your hair. Whether it’s a major chop, a shift in color, or a gentle refresh—it might be the reset your soul has been quietly asking for. Here’s to becoming.
My Top Picks From The Hive’s Sale (While They Last!)
I’m always a little hesitant to share my favorite items for Stylebook articles—by the time it runs, there’s a chance some of the pieces will be gone. And honestly? I hope they are! That said, I still wanted to share a few of my current sale favorites to highlight the range of brands and styles marked down. Come visit us this weekend. Remember: the more you buy, the more you save!
Let’s Play with Flowers This Summer!
Summer is officially here, and we’re celebrating the best way we know how—surrounded by flowers (and maybe a little rosé). If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at floral design or just need a fun excuse to get out of the house, our summer workshop series at Helen Olivia Flowers is the perfect plan. Our calendar fills up quickly, especially for private events, so don’t wait too long to book!
Father’s Day, Handled: Gifts He’ll Actually Love
Father’s Day is June 15 and we’re all scrambling to plan something sweet for the Dad who allegedly wants nothing and has everything. We’ve curated some gift ideas that will delight him to no end. We’ve pulled items from all over the shops to create a collection riddled with fun, practical, classic, and very special pop-approved gifts.
Organizing Tips for a Clutter-Free Garage, Shed, and Patio This Summer
Remember that time you spent 20 minutes hunting for a baseball glove while your kid's friends waited in the driveway? Or when you gave up finding the garden shears and just used kitchen scissors on your shrubs? We've all been there. Your outdoor spaces should work for you, not against you. We've tested dozens of organizing systems to find what actually works, even with kids and busy weekends in the mix.
From Pools to Patios: Explore Alexandria’s Must-See June Homes
Whether you're dreaming of a resort-style pool just in time for summer, a historic townhome in the heart of Old Town, or a peaceful creekside retreat, this month’s listings deliver on space, style, and setting. With updated features, unique layouts, and unbeatable locations across Alexandria, these homes are ready to impress.
Why Medical Research Is Not One-Size-Fits-All…Especially for Women!
Women have outnumbered men in the United States since 1946 yet between 2014-2020 only 6% of medical studies were conducted on women only. Our pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and the way medical schools teach were all based on the study of men…not women. Thankfully, we are now in a golden age of medical science catching up.
Summer Sale: Let the Shopping Games Begin
It’s hard to believe it’s sale time already! Even though we started a little later this year than last, we’re bringing back one of our favorite markdown formats: the more you buy, the more you save! There are so many great pieces available—tons of summer dresses, shorts, and sandals—just in time for the warm weather.
How to Choose the Perfect Date Night Spot in Alexandria
We’re lucky to have some amazing date night spots right here in Alexandria. And right now? It’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy them—the weather is brilliant, everything is green and gorgeous, and the vibe is just right. Trying to pick the perfect date night spot? My must-haves include a good bar setup!
Why I Keep Coming Back to Anine Bing Tees (And You Will Too)
I was just chatting with Madeline and Shannon about how some of the most-worn items in my closet are my Anine Bing graphic tees. What sets them apart? They’re thick, the prints are effortlessly cool, and even though I am technically wearing a label, it doesn’t feel that way—unlike with some other brands.
Empowering Women and Teens: The Junior League of Northern Virginia
I sat down with JLNV President Erica Gouse Bledsoe to talk about their incredible impact on local women and girls—from stocking free period product pantries to launching a first-of-its-kind teen leadership program. Find out how you (or a teen in your life!) can get involved in the next cohort and why Erica calls JLNV her “third space.”
The Rise of ‘Tweakments’: Small Changes, Big Impact
Gone are the days of dramatic makeovers—today, it’s all about subtle enhancements that leave people wondering, ‘Did they do something… or are they just well-rested?’” I often joke with my clients if you want your friends to know you're in my chair, great! But if not then my goal is to give you that “eight hours of sleep, hydrated, doing yoga glow.”
Crêpes, Cocktails & Charm: A Delicious Old Town Alexandria Experience
Who doesn't love a good crêpe? Delicate, thin pancakes, nestled with sweet or savory fillings, have a story as rich and delightful as their taste. Crepes still hold significant cultural importance in France, and have become a symbol of French culture and cuisine. So, next time you're in Old Town, walk down the cobblestones to a taste of history and flavor at Fontaine and definitely pop into The Parlour for that ideal aperitif or digestif.
How to Clean Your Fountain Pen (And Why It's Not as Scary as You Think!)
So, you've taken the plunge and bought your first fountain pen – congratulations! Maybe it's a cartridge-based pen like the Lamy Safari, or perhaps you went bold with a TWSBI Eco and bottled ink. Either way, you're probably wondering about the dreaded "M" word: maintenance. But here's the thing – cleaning your fountain pen is actually easier than getting ragu out of a white shirt. I promise.
Three New Homes in Alexandria Offering Location, Luxury, and Lifestyle
From the waterfront charm of Old Town to the quiet elegance of Mount Vernon, these Alexandria residences offer distinct lifestyles defined by luxury, comfort, and location. Whether you’re drawn to Harborside’s riverfront sophistication at 54 Wolfe Street, the expansive upgrades and serene setting of 9103 Chickawane Court, or modern updates of 330 N Patrick Street, each home delivers a unique opportunity to live beautifully in one of the region’s most sought-after communities.
New Sneaker Arrivals: Back 70 & Paul Green Now at The Shoe Hive
I pretty much live in sneakers—and I’m always on the hunt for new brands to carry at The Shoe Hive. I’m excited to announce our newest brand: Back 70. I first spotted them at Scarpa in Charlottesville, and then started seeing them pop up in a few more places. Come check out the newest arrivals from Back 70 and Paul Green, along with tons of other great summer shoes!
The Seashore Project: Eleven Years of Smiles
When we had moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, we didn’t know a soul. I wanted to contribute, to meet people, to find a way to give back to a school where my boys would attend and pave the way for other children and especially military families who would someday make their home on the island too. That first year, we created what would become The Seashore Project.
Street Style: Meet Elizabeth Fitzsimmons
I have a friend who jokingly asks if she’s in my “top five” list of friends. I, of course, always change the subject—I love too many people to rank (though I can rank-order my dogs). But as I sat down to write about Elizabeth Fitzsimmons, the “top five” thing popped into my head. If I had to pick five of my favorite people who have ever walked through the doors of The Shoe Hive, she would be on that list.