Washington DC: My Trip in Photos

If you follow me on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, you'll know that I've been back in DC! The city is like my second home and it's been great to be back amongst amazing friends, gorgeous architecture and all kinds of fun!

Whilst my trip included lots of meetings and hard work, there was plenty of fun! Here's what I got up to.

Arriving at my friend's house, I was greeted with an amazing Easter basket filled with lovely goodies!

The next day, we went house searching (hello gorgeous properties along Foxhole Road!) This one is my absolute favorite.

Then an afternoon of shopping, including a trip to Neiman Marcus. Officially in love with this amazing dress!

On Saturday, we took a tour of the Capitol. It was fun to experience this sacred building and the area again after my time working here!

In the afternoon, we took a trip to Hillwood Museum and Gardens. If you live in the DC area and haven't visited- you must! I loved the 1940s kitchen - it was like something out of a film set! I also had fun with a regal looking lion.

The next few days were filled with meetings across the city. In the Smithsonian I spotted my pal, Tina Cassidy's great book about Jackie Kennedy!

I also attended the media launch of Nora Pouillon's new memoir, My Organic Life. Nora is the owner of the amazing Restaurant Nora and has cooked for Presidents and royalty! It was a lovely lunch with lovely company!

I also went by the White House for the standard 'House of Cards' moment...

I also explored Old Town Alexandria- I love the architectural details that are visible in the buildings across the city. The gorgeous little lights, brickwork and a piece of Wales in DC!

After DC I headed up to New York. Stay tuned for photos and details from this leg of my trip later this week! 

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Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

Hillary's team of digital strategists

Inspiring interiors in Washington DC

Women in Business: Bobbi Brown

Investment Flats: Chanel + Ferragmo

I live the majority of my life in flat shoes, so when it comes to finding new ones, I need something that will last.

I like my flats to be classic. They have to be black, not overly fussy, but something that will stand out.

My first pick was a pair of Ferragmo Varina flats. I opted for the black patent version and bought them whilst in Toronto. They are the ultimate sophisticated shoe, and the classic bow is the perfect touch.

When I was in Paris in October I headed to Chanel to check out their ballet flats. They'd been on my list for quite a while and I was eager to see them in person. They had some gorgeous variations on the classic ballet style- tweed, patent, plain leather and quilted. After much decision making, I chose the patent toed version. (Notice a theme here?!)

Purchasing the Chanel versions in France saved me a bit of money, and these are the most comfy shoes I have ever bought. There was no need to wear them round the house to break them in- I took them straight from box to walking.

Whilst these shoes aren't cheap, they are certainly two items in my wardrobe that will stand the test of time and can be worn over and over. I was fortunate to save money by purchasing the Varina's in Canada, and also saving a substantial amount by purchasing the Chanel's in Paris.

There should be a place for investment pieces in every girl's wardrobe, and these flats form a solid place in mine!

What is your ideal investment piece? Let me know in the comments! 

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Magazine Must-Haves

I admit it. I love magazines! I've always loved reading, and had magazine subscriptions from a very young age- it's only natural that I continue this habit!

There are the regulars that I read every month- US Vogue, Vanity Fair and Architectural Digest and I also have a subscription to Time magazine.

I would say that the above are my favourites. I love Vanity Fair for the mix of fashion and features, and they always have great cover stars (hello- Robin Wright!) Architectural Digest is where I escape to for a moment of calm...and house envy! And of course, Vogue for fashion and fun!

What are your magazine must-haves?

Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

11 amazing tweets from Madeleine Albright

40 under 40: What I would tell my 20 year old self

Arianna Huffington: The Coveteur 

White House Week

This week, the President and First Lady travelled to Boston today to celebrate the opening of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate.

The building — complete with a full-scale replica of the United States Senate chamber — honors the life and legacy of Edward "Ted" Kennedy, who served as a U.S. Senator from 1962 to 2009.

Located adjacent to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, the Institute offers interactive exhibits, a replica of Sen. Kennedy’s D.C. office, and historic documents and memorabilia from the Senator’s life.

Watch the full remarks below.



Next year, the National Park Service celebrates its 100th birthday.  The National Park Service and National Park Foundation are continuing the celebration with the launch of #FindYourPark, a new campaign to encourage Americans to connect to our astounding network of parks and public lands — whether it’s for the first time or the hundredth.

March through Instagram

Inspired by DvF | Civic Centre murals | Starting my Lego minifigure collection | Stars and stripes | The classics | Spring beauty with Clinique | Leopard rainboots and coffee catch-up | Mother's Day throwback | Catching up with my favourite magazines

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Washington DC: My Photos

Later this week I'm headed back to Washington DC! It's one of my favourite cities and where I find lots of inspiration for my blog! Here's a photographic look at some of my most treasured haunts and memories of this great city!

I love visiting the Smithsonian Museums! My favorite is the Museum of American History, where you can see items from the White House, dresses worn by the First Ladies and lots of Presidential memorabilia! The china above is from the George W Bush Administration.

I also love that you can see and experience Julia Child's kitchen- definitely a highlight!

Another great place to visit is the Newseum. It's packed full of interesting artefacts, hands on exhibitions and has a fab gift shop! You can see items such as Kennedy's debate notes, the door from Watergate and Tim Russert's desk.

I always try to visit Arlington National Cemetery when I'm in the city, and make a particular stop at the Kennedy gravesite. It's such a moving place of rest and it's a peaceful place in the heart of such a busy city.

Similarly I really like visiting the National Cathedral. It's magnificent! The circular stained glass window is so impressive and the views from the gallery are like no other!

Georgetown is my favourite area to stroll and shop. I love the houses and how unique the area feels.

The US Capitol is one of my favourite buildings and I have so many great memories from working there. I love all the history, the stories and the Rotunda is so impressive.

I like to visit the Memorials at night- I think the Lincoln Memorial is quite spooky in the dark!

All Author's Own

No trip to DC would be complete without a tour of the White House!

Check out more of my photos here.

What do you love most about DC? What are your favourite places to visit? Let me know! 

Rainy Days with The Umbrella Shop

It's officially spring, but the weather doesn't know this! This past weekend was a particularly wet and cold one...but it was perfect to test out my new umbrella from The Umbrella Shop!

Living in a climate where the elements are particularly wet and windy and umbrella is an essential piece of kit. This vented golf umbrella is perfect for tackling the windy weather, and the black and white colouring is my favourite.

And the grand setting where the road test took place? The glorious Tredegar House in Newport. You may recognise it from television shows including Doctor Who. It has an amazing history and is set in amazing grounds. It's one of my favourite places!

Thanks to my pal Helen Reynolds for the photos- had to include this great outtake!

Outfit: Umbrella, c/o The Umbrella Shop | Scarf, Tory Burch | Bag, Longchamp | Jacket: Barbour | Pants: Zara | Rainboots, J.Crew

Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

Five weekend habits of successful entrepreneurs

9 inspiring celebrity home styles to copy

Lauren Bacall Auction preview

Washington Week with Gwen Ifill launches new Fellowship scheme

Great news if you're interested in becoming a journalist or getting into the media! Washington Week with Gwen Ifill, seen Fridays at 8:00 pm on PBS stations nationwide, has announced a new fellowship initiative to train emerging journalists, especially those from diverse backgrounds.

Funded by Newman’s Own Foundation, this six-month, paid, entry-level program will select four promising journalists over the next two year who are pursuing a career in TV news production, digital media, or reporting and provide them with an immersive experience.

“As I visit schools and campuses around the country, I've always been excited to meet the next generation of smart journalists,” said Gwen Ifill, moderator and managing editor of Washington Week. “With this new fellowship, Washington Week will now be able to expand our commitment to making sure we help nurture and groom young people who yearn to tell the news well, no matter the platform.”

Fellows will work with the Washington Week team to research national and international news stories, generate story ideas, produce broadcast and web content, and assist with the production of the weekly series and special online initiatives.

The fellowships will be available from:

• June through November 2015 (one fellow);
• December 2015 through May 2016 (one fellow); and
• June through November 2016 (two fellows).

The deadline for applying is April 27, 2015. For more details click here.

White House Week

President Barack Obama embraces Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius, left, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi after signing the health insurance reform bill in the East Room of the White House, March 23, 2010. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

This week marked the fifth anniversary of the Affordable Care Act. President Biden shared his thoughts, which you can hear here!

This week also saw the White House Science Fair! Running for five years, this year President Obama welcomed more than 100 students from more than 30 states for a celebration and showcase of their truly remarkable achievmenets in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Watch the highlights below!



Make sure you check out this fun video about the White House Student Film Festival, featuring our favorite- Kid President!

Travel Tips

I love to travel! Next week I'm returning to the States and to my two favourite cities- Washington DC and New York!

I have a routine now when it comes to preparing and actually setting off on the journey. When I start to get my washbag ready, that signifies that the holiday has begun! #Superorganized.

I must admit that I don't find packing fun, but using those mesh type pods are a gift from heaven when I start to sort out what clothes I need to take. They save so much room in the case and you can really pack lots in!

I always put shoes at the bottom, and try not to take more than three pairs (one of which I'll be wearing.) I also use lots of Zip Lock bags for my toiletries and make-up, and I always pack a roll of tape and some bubble wrap in case I buy any fragile items during my trip!

When it comes to the journey, I print all the documents out ahead of time and place them in a clear wallet so I can see where everything is. I pack a few treats for the flight and will often buy a magazine at the airport. I'll usually buy some food at the airport to take onto the plane - maybe a sandwich or a salad, some juice, fruit and a little chocolate!

In my carry-on I also pack all my electrical leads and power converters, as well as a small medical kit. One thing I would recommend is buying a sensible and protective case or bag for your laptop- and something that you can also fit inside your handbag.

Following this routine helps me stay focused and keeps me excited for the fun I've planned ahead!

What tips would you recommend for travelling? Is there a particular item or method that has made your journey stress-free? Let me know in the comments! 

Spring Favourites at J.Crew

Spring has sprung and I am in love with these new accessories at J.Crew!

Chambray baseball cap

Woven tassel clutch

Gingham infinity scarf

Multicolor crystal earrings

Which pieces are on your must have list for Spring?

Royal Style: King Willem and Queen Maxima State Visit to Denmark

Two of our favourite royals collided last week when King Willem and Queen Maxima had a state visit to Denmark. They met with Prince Frederick and Princess Mary on the visit which also included a spectacular state dinner.

View image | gettyimages.com

Queen Maxima arrived in Denmark wearing this amazing grey coat by Dutch designer Claes Iversen- I am obsessed and need this in my wardrobe!

View image | gettyimages.com

Queen Maxima upcycled her inauguration gown for the state dinner - the striking cobalt blue gown was customer made by Dutch designer Jan Taminiau. Queen Maxima accessorised with a diamond and sapphire tiara, created by skilled Parisian jeweller Mellerio. It features 655 diamonds set in platinum, with 33 Kashmir sapphires nestled at the bottom of the diadem. WOW.

View image | gettyimages.com

View image | gettyimages.com

Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

Disney's $1 billion bet on a wristband

Chanel lowers prices in China

7 things one entrepreneur learned from starting her own business

All the places the First Lady eats in DC!

AERIN Beauty and Neue Galarie Collaboration

In honor of the opening of "Gustav Klimt and Adele Bloch-Bauer: The Woman in Gold" on Thursday, April 2, 2015, the Neue Galerie Design Shop has partnered with AERIN to unveil an exclusive AERIN Rose Balm Lipstick Set.

Developed by Neue Galerie New York Director Renée Price, in collaboration with
AERIN Creative Director and Founder Aerin Lauder, the exclusive set is inspired by Gustav Klimt, an artist who defined the allure of fin-de-siècle Vienna with his seductive portraits of society women, in particular his sensuous portrait Adele Bloch-Bauer I from 1907. The painting, which was acquired by the Neue Galerie in 2006, is the centerpiece of the museum collection, as well as the subject of a compelling new historical drama, "Woman in Gold," starring Helen Mirren and Ryan Reynolds.

The exclusive AERIN Rose Balm Lipstick Set will feature two AERIN Rose Balm Lipsticks that complement the portrait. Liebling, a top-selling AERIN shade, evokes the warm blush tones in Adele’s lips and cheeks, and Sequin, a Neue Galerie exclusive, glows with a golden shimmer that captures the radiance of the painting.

AERIN Rose Balm Lipstick shades feature a luxe texture, medium coverage, and a shine finish. The lipsticks are each packaged in golden rectangular cases with a black pouch inside a custom box decorated with the portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer. The exclusive AERIN Rose Balm Lipstick Set is available for a limited time through the Neue Galerie Design Shop for $64.

White House Week

First Lady Michelle Obama is joined by Ambassador Caroline Kennedy and Akie Abe, the First Lady of Japan, during a “Let GIrls Learn” announcement held at the Iikura Guest House in Tokyo, Japan on March 19, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

This week, the First Lady travelled to Japan. In Tokyo, Mrs Obama announced a new partnership between the two countries that will help girls across the world go to school. The program will be called Let Girls Learn and will be run by the Peace Corps. Find out more here. 

Mrs Obama also travelled to Kyoto where she visited the Fushimi Inari Shrine and the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. During this trip she has been accompanied by Ambassador Kennedy.

First Lady Michelle Obama, along with Ambassador Caroline Kennedy and Jack Schlossberg participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, while visiting Kiyomizu-Dera Buddhist Temple in Kyoto, Japan on March 20, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Back at the White House, President Obama welcomed the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall to the Executive Mansion as part of their trip to the USA.

President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden meet with Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, in the Oval Office, March 19, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

The President also celebrated St Patrick's Day! See all the action here.