Behind the Scenes in the Body of Proof Fitting Room

Regular readers will know that I am a big fan of the ABC show Body of Proof, and was more than a bit upset to hear that Season 3 would be its last.

Body of Proof Costume Designer Susanna Puisto (a supporter of Political Style, and recently interviewed!) has shared with us some great behind the scenes photographs of the hard work and dedication that goes into costume design and fittings.

Costume Designer Susanna Puisto fits an orange cape worn by Dana Delany in Seasons 2 and 3. (This is one of my favorite pieces that Megan Hunt wears!) 

Construction shots of an emerald green dress designed and made by Puisto and her team. This was worn by Delany in Episode 17. 

Puisto and her team also made this great purple tweed dress for Delany. 

Assistants Esther and Syros hard at work in the workroom. Eagle-eyed viewers can see the red Alexander McQueen dress and bolero style jacket that Delany wore in Season 3 Episode 4.

Team member Caroline prepares for a fitting.

Syros gets to work preparing uniforms for cast members. 

Susanna Puisto 

Maritza helps to run the department of 12 whilst Puisto designs, shops and fits outfits for cast members. 

Check out my a previous interview with Susanna here, and stay tuned for an exclusive look back at Megan Hunt's outfits throughout Body of Proof! 

Invest in your Wardrobe

I've been investing in my wardrobe for several years now, carefully sourcing and selecting pieces that I know will stand me the test of time. For me, there is nothing more satisfying than finding the perfect style of white tee shirt, or the ideal black coat which can take me from season to season without any stress.

Whilst I like to follow fashion trends (and occasionally dabble in a fun, 'on-trend' piece,) I'm loyal to closet basics, embracing classic styles, silhouettes and palettes.

Over the next couple of weeks I'll be selecting some of my closet staples, (documented above,) and sharing with you my top picks of what to look for and where to purchase.

It's never too late to overhaul your wardrobe, and starting with one piece can really set your mind to reassessing your personal style and shopping habits.

Where do you shop for your wardrobe basics? Send me an email or a tweet with your top tips and suggestions! 

Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

Cory Booker to announce Senate bid in New Jersey

Apple said to start iPhone trade-in program

Buffett's charity auction draws winning bid of $1 million 

7 female Directors to keep your eye on

The Third Metric

HuffPo

With the on-going debate over Sheryl Sandberg's Lean In manifesto, I was interested to hear about The Third Metric conference taking place in New York earlier this week.

Hosted by two of my inspirations, Mika Brzezinski and Arianna Huffington, I was disappointed that I wasn't able to attend, but nevertheless enjoyed digesting the coverage of Thursday's conference.

The Third Metric aims to redefine success beyond the two traditional measures of money and power, tackling issues around health, well-being and the American workplace by proposing a new metric of success focused upon personal passion, fulfilment and life balance.

A number of influencers, intellectuals and corporate leaders spoke at the conference, which also hosted contributions from Valerie Jarrett, Jill Abramson, Senator Claire McCaskill and Katie Couric.

I'm really excited about how I can implement the Third Metric into my own life- watch this space!

To find out more about the conference click here. 

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

White House Week

This week, the President hosted a National Conference on Mental Health. It is estimated that 45 million Americans suffer from illnesses like depression, schizophrenia or post-traumatic stress syndrome. The day long conference kicked off a national conversation about mental health in the US, and the President  stressed the importance of a more open dialogue on mental health issues. For more information on the Obama Administration's effort to raise and awareness and improve care, visit mentalhealth.gov



On Tuesday, the President announced the nomination of three candidates to the DC District Court- Patricia Millett, Nina Pillard and Robert Wilkins.

The White House

The White House also honored civil rights heroes, released the findings of a study on patent trolls, remembered Senator Frank Lautenberg, and welcomed civil hacking individuals to the White House.

The President also announced new members of his National Security Team. Susan Rice will succeed Tom Donilon as the National Security Advisor, and Samantha Power, former Senior Director for Multilateral Affairs and Human Rights is the nominee to succeed Ambassador Rice as US Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

Discovering DC: Georgetown

This week, Discovering DC features Carine's Bridal Atelier, located in Georgetown. Get to know the favorite places of Public Relations Director, Katie Thornhill and Bridal Consultants Lisa Greiger and Gabriella Lehimdjian!

What's you history with Georgetown and DC?
Gabriella: I grew up in Northern Virginia, about 15 minutes outside of the city. Being a D.C. area native, I've really come to appreciate everything the area has to offer. From the museums to the great restaurants and shopping...D.C. is a great city to live in. Growing up here, it was nice having a lot of different places to go to for outdoor activities as well!

Katie: I am originally from Atlanta, GA and have been living in D.C. since June 2011. When I first moved to DC after college, my roommate and I lived in the Logan Circle area and now my fiancé and I are in Georgetown and love it! I have really come to love the political side of D.C. with all the monuments as well as the culinary side of D.C. There are SO many amazing restaurants in D.C. from Farmers Fishers Bakers, Range, Peacock Cafe, Bodega, and my list could go on and on!

Lisa: I just moved to the D.C. metro area in August 2012. Before that, I visited many times, but never thought I would end up here. Since moving to Falls Church, I've fallen in love with the area!

Discovering Georgetown what are your favorite places to shop/eat/go with friends/people watch?
Gabriella: I love shopping and grabbing a bite to eat in Georgetown and Old Town Alexandria!

Katie: My two favorite places to shop/eat/go would be 14th street and Georgetown. I love going to Pearl Dive for their Sunday menu and then strolling up and down the street, hitting up Whole Foods, Miss Pixies, and Peregrine Espresso. Then in Georgetown there is CUSP, Zara, Intermix, Anthropologie, and J Crew; all shopping hot spots. Sitting on the Georgetown Water Front when the weather is nice is a no-brainer!

Lisa: Recently, my friends and I have discovered our local trivia night in Falls Church at Clare and Don's Beach Shack. Aside from that I'm looking forward to exploring the city more now that the weather is getting nicer.

Perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon in Georgetown?
Gabriella: I love having a delicious brunch by the water at Farmers Fishers Bakers or Sequoia and then maybe going to one of the museums downtown to see a new exhibit. Can't wait to see the Ellen Harvey exhibit at the Corcoran Gallery starting in July.

Katie: Early morning long run along the canal and into Virginia as the sun is coming up, then coming home to fix a big refueling breakfast of eggs, oatmeal, sausage, more coffee and then we would get ready for brunch at Masa 14 with a big grouping of our friends. After brunch, we would head down to the fish market, pick out two pieces fish to grill, roast some vegetables for the fish, open a bottle of wine and voila! That would be an amazing Saturday!

Lisa: Best afternoons are grilling out with friends, making a few drinks, and hanging out on our porch.

L-R: Lisa, Gabriella and Katie

For more posts in the Discovering DC archive click here. You can follow Carine's Bridal Atelier on Twitter, and find out more on their website. 

Dream Dress: Tory Burch Codie floral-appliqued tulle midi dress

This Tory Burch tulle midi dress is the stuff dreams are made of! Frothy layers of tulle and silk give the 'Codie' dress an ethereal feel, with coral floral appliques drawing the eye to a nipped in waist. Embrace your inner Grace Kelly when you wear this fabulous creation out to a cocktail party or summer event.

Available here.

Tory Burch

J Crew: Looks I Love

I love the mix of prints in this classic pairing- with a twist! The skirt is something I can definitely see Michelle Obama wearing at some point in the future, and I love the doubling of big bracelets on both wrists. {Shop the look here!}

Who says you can't jazz up a rain outfit with some silver pumps? Plus, isn't the candy coloured rain jacket the perfect way to shelter against a seasonal shower? {Shop the look here!}

J Crew

These pants are the perfect shade of blue for summertime, and the delicately embellished silk shell makes this a perfect day-to-night casual outfit. {Shop the look here!}

Maono Pop-Up Shop Launch Event, June 13 2013

Got no plans for Thursday 13th June? Then make sure you head to Maono's Pop Up Shop Launch Event at the Science Club!

Running from 4.30pm-8pm, head to the Science Club at 1136 19th St NW to hear Maono's story, meet the team and perhaps most important of all- shop!

Work attire and accessories will be available to purchase, and throughout the evening enjoy special discounts, music, wine and cupcakes. Grant Harris, Menswear Consultant will be the Special Guest.

To find out more and register click here.

The Ocean Avenue Collection by Warby Parker

As someone who has worn eyeglasses since the age of 5, I'm regularly on the lookout for new arrivals on the specs front.

I'm so excited to share the Ocean Avenue Collection by Warby Parker that has launched today! Warby Parker was launched as an alternative to many overpriced eyewear lines that are available today, circumventing traditional channels and engaging with customers directly through their website. The Warby Parker aesthetic is vintage inspired with a contemporary twist, and every pair of glasses is custom fit with anti reflective, polycarbonate prescription lenses.

This Summer's Ocean Avenue Collection is one for the 'boardwalk truants, amateur spongers and aspiring beach bums,' and each of the 8 optical frames and 14 sunglasses are custom acetate with cool hues such as Sea Glass Blue, Driftwood and Orange Fizz. Warby Parker sought inspiration from the 1979 cult film The Warriors, a picture that charts the interborough rivalry of New York City gangs as they rumble their way to Coney Island over the course of one long night.

So which are my favourites?

The Jasper Sunglasses in Newsprint

The Jules Sunglasses in Marbled Charcoal

The Preston Glasses in Pearled Tortoise

The Preston Glasses in Seaglass Blue

The Roosevelt Glasses in Chocolate Soda

If only I could own them all! 

This new collection is available alongside Warby Parker's other great range of eyeglasses and sunglasses. Warby Parker offers free shipping, home try-ons and returns. 

For every pair of glasses sold, Warby Parker distributes another pair to someone in need. One billion people worldwide lack access to glasses, meaning that 15% of the global population cannot effectively learn or work- Warby Parker is innovatively addressing this issue, and what's better than to give back? 

For more information on Warby Parker and the Ocean Avenue Collection click here. 

Milly for Banana Republic

The Milly for Banana Republic collection has recently landed in stores and online- it's the very epitome of summer style!

The limited edition collection blends effortless modernity with chic prints inspired by summertime in the Hamptons.

Some of my favourites include:

Piped Shirt

Patent Wicker Clutch

Circle Embroidered Skirt

Enamel Lock Bangle

Elephant Print Short

Shop the full collection here.

Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

Mika Brzezinski: How I Moved Beyond the Label 'Somewhat Aspirational'

Best Bits from Oprah's Harvard Commencement Address

Rob Lowe to play JFK 

Hillary Clinton to honor Oscar de la Renta

Discovering DC: Hillcrest

This week, Discovering DC heads to Hillcrest with Manoucheka from Colour Me Glam! 

What's your history with Hillcrest and DC?
I moved to DC 7 years ago from Boston. At the time, I was convinced I was going to save the world as most young people out of college believe. I eventually landed on Capitol Hill working for Dianne Feinstein. Since then, I have settled in at a public relations firm in the city.

Discovering Hillcrest- what are your favourite places to shop/eat/go with friends/people watch?
I moved to Hillcrest in SE DC in 2009 and I absolutely love my area. This neighborhood  is a hidden jewel in the city and also home to some amazing houses. Hillcrest is also home to DC  Mayor Vincent Gray. While it is not as popular as say Dupont, I do believe its time is coming. One of my favorite restaurants which is a stones throw from my house is Pimento Grill. When the restaurant first opened, I think I pretty much resided there.

Perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon in Hillcrest?
Going for a run through Hillcrest, in this neighborhood, you see some amazing views of the city.

For more posts in the Discovering DC archive click here. You can follow Manoucheka on Twitter here. 

Weekly Video Inspiration: Diane von Furstenberg, Women at Google

Summer Accessories at Tory Burch

Tory Burch

Shop the summer accessories suggestions from Tory Burch here.

J Crew Summer Shoes for you!

J Crew

Shop all shoes here.

Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

Jackie Kennedy: I Love Living in Georgetown 

Facebook: One Year Later

Obama confronts an endless war

Posts on Sweet Lemon Magazine

SLM

Many of you will be familiar with my posts on other websites, including Sweet Lemon Magazine.

Check out my latest post discussing the constant campaign, and how we are living in a world full of lobbying and campaigns.

Discovering DC: Foggy Bottom

This week, Discovering DC heads to Foggy Bottom with Miranda from Pretty Squared! 

What's your history with Foggy Bottom and DC?

I’ve been in Washington DC, specifically the Foggy Bottom area, for approximately 7 years – how time flies! I first came to Washington DC in 2006 to attend college, and after graduation, I also attended law school here.  I adore living in the city, so I am hoping I can continue living and working in DC.

Discovering Foggy Bottom- what are your favourite places to shop/eat/go with friends/people watch?
Foggy Bottom is a crowded little downtown area, full of students, professionals, and tourists, but there are a ton of options when going out to enjoy the day and relax.  The Greek Deli on 19th St. has some of the best Mediterranean food in a 500 mile radius – the lines are long, the restaurant is cramped, but it all adds to the experience.  After a long day of exams or studying, I love taking a break with some yummy food and eating outside to watch the city action.  Because I’m a coffee aficionado (who in DC isn’t?), I frequent the Filter Coffeehouse on 20th St. Filter Coffeehouse baristas are true experts with pour overs, and their latte art and designs are absolutely lovely (ahem, Instagram worthy).  On Wednesdays, I always visit the outside farmers’ market which sets up right in the middle of the street.   From organic vegetables to delicious pastries and cheese samples, the fresh farm market is an easy way to stay healthy and support local businesses (all without ever leaving downtown).

Perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon in Foggy Bottom?
On Saturdays and Sundays, Foggy Bottom is surprisingly quiet – I love eating breakfast on our building’s rooftop and watching the Kennedy Center and the city skyline (yes, DC has a skyline).  With all the activity during the work week, strolling through the empty streets to go to brunch or sitting on a bench in the University Yard is the perfect way to enjoy the weekend.

For more posts in the Discovering DC archive click here. You can follow Miranda on Twitter here.

Weekly Video Inspiration: Michelle Obama DNC Speech, 2012