Alegria's Second Annual Halloween Pub Crawl and Costume Contest

Last year was so much fun it was scary!

Pub Crawl begins at Gaspar's Grotto (1805 E. 7th Ave,  Tampa)

on Friday, October 25, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.   and hits the hottest night spots in Ybor City.

$20 to join

Drink specials at every stop along the way.

Costume contest at the last stop.

Proceeds from Alegria's 2nd Annual Pub Crawl and Costume Contest benefit 

Alegria's Kicken' for Kids.

Funded by the efforts of the members of AlegriaKicken’ for Kids provides new shoes for deserving children in the Tampa Bay Area.  Recipients of new shoes have included children from Cleveland Elementary, Metropolitan Ministries, and Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranch, Cornerstone Kids, and Salesian Boys and Girls Club.  

One more LBD that I Iove!

I ran across this LBD (little black dress) on Pinterest, and I thought was a great illustration of the timelessness of a classic LBD.

This is a silk chiffon dress from the 1950's.  It was organically sold at Saks Fifth Avenue.

I simply adore the lovely feminine detailing.  

This dress was available through Hemlock Vintage Clothing, and sadly, has been sold.
http://www.hemlockvintage.com/feed/50s021109.html

Parisian Staples of Style

Parisian women are effortlessly gorgeous.  

That is because Parisian women know how to employ basic fashion staples that are simple yet elegant.  Below are some of the basic Parisian style staples that every woman should own. 

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m4dvfaP6bH1qlwrezo1_1280.jpg

Little Black Dress

Coco Chanel coined the term in 1926, and it has been a fashion staple ever since.  Audrey Hepburn was unforgettable in a Chanel LBD Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Parisian women understand the principle of the Little Black Dress. The LBD is a fashion staple is because it is so versatile. It can go from day to night with nothing more than a well placed sweater or jacket, and a change of accessories.  The LBD is flattering on everyone.  The key is to know you body type and find a LBD (or two) that is flattering on you.  

http://tastyprettythings.com/jennifer-aniston-style/

Lingerie

It has been rumored that Parisian spend 20% or more on their undergarments.  Beautiful lingerie makes you feel beautiful from the first layer that touches you skin.   

For inspiration from French lingerie designers visit: http://us.chantelle.com/en/ 

or http://www.agentprovocateur.com

http://us.chantelle.com/en/vendome-coque.html

Trench Coat
Basic black or simple neutral, a trench coat is a Parisian woman's style staple.  A trench coat adds sophistication to any outfit.  That is me in the black trench coat on the streets of Paris.  

Parisian women know that when  selecting pieces, to go for quality not quantity.  These pieces are meant to be style staples, and should be classic, and not necessarily trendy. 

Adventures in Washington DC

 I am visiting a friend in Washington D.C.  

This isn't the first time I have been here, and I am fairly certain it won't be my last. The things that make this trip so interesting is the federal government shutdown is going on right now.  Many government employees are not going to work, and are not sure when they will go back to work.

Congress seems to be deadlocked on whether or not to fund the Affordable Care Act, so the federal government has shut down. 

Frankly, I can't tell the difference.