All words: Lauren Bulbin

All photos: Lauren Bulbin & Katherine Gaines

Fashion District was the place to see and be seen in Washington last Thursday night. Amidst fashionistas and bloggers, D.C.’s fashion forward designers brandished their wares while the crowd flourished, danced and gabbed over plentiful and delicious cocktails. Ginger Root Design, Hugh & Crye, Kelly Tang, Artaya, Aliceanna, Shop Jeen, Accoutre, Jennifer Jeremias and It’s Vintage Darling all came out and set up shop at the Powerhouse on the Georgetown Waterfront. Interspersed between cubicles and classic brick walls, one could find an array of fashionable accessories, jewelry and clothing.

From the cute dresses of Kelly Tang to the edgy accessories of Shop Jeen, the night was all about supporting the District’s best local boutiques and artists, and entertaining the fashion-loving guys and gals who make them famous. Washington’s best dressed darted in and out of provisional stores set up side-by-side for the night and gazed up at the well-tailored shirts of Hugh & Crye and the dapper bow ties of Accoutre.

While the city’s celebrated Ginger Root Design sold tie after repurposed tie and jewelry constructed from vintage pieces, Kelly Tang’s models took to the high ground showing off upscale slim, fitted and skinny dress shirts from Hugh & Crye. Throughout the evening, it became ever apparent that the DC fashion scene is booming and has become a strong, relevant part of the culture here in Washington. Thanks to ReadySetDC, our city’s best and finest fashions and accessories were showcased together in one place at a great event.

Judging from the crowd, the DC art and fashion scene is growing and now seems to have a huge following. As I wandered away from the bar and DJ downstairs at Powerhouse, I encountered the displays of Onyx Feather, It’s Vintage Darling and Shop Jeen, all of which were buzzing with their latest lines and vintage finds. Making my way around the space, I passed the drink and food stations, as well as a hit group of girls tearing it up in the DJ booth.

At the top of the stairs, I was greeted by Ginger Root, who brought their A game and came bearing their well-known upcycled ties and stylish jewelry from a bevy of local artists. The next booth revealed the funky designs of Artaya and the quirky, cute bowties of Accoutre. Down the hall, Hugh & Crye were making a name for themselves as the best dressed and most outrageous guys at the party, while Kolton J and Jennifer Jeremias sold their beautiful jewelry. Past them and another bar, Kelly Tang and Aliceanna displayed their attractive cocktail and day dresses to DC’s most fashionable crowd.

The whole night showed off some of the best fashion DC has to offer, and I don’t know about you, but we can’t wait until next time!

Some lovely snaps by Katherine: