Weekend Update with Lady Erin ...

Miss J dishing in the Press/Media Lounge

#PassionForFashion

Note: #NailSwagBL

Miss J pointed at me and literally put me on the spot.

Winning approval from Miss J (Alexander) himself or herself rather, was certainly one of the biggest highlights of my weekend. Of course I didn't get a pic of myself but I was adorned in a leopard print, spandex Sheba dress from Tobi which of course I accessorized and jazzed up with jewelry and B.A.I.T. Hilda Red Alligator Pointed Shootie Booties from Lulu*s. Miss J is an Author but is widely known for work on America's Next Top Model. Miss J's flamboyant style and outlandish personality, garners attention always. Miss J put me on the spot by saying, "You are working that dress. You're good." Translation, approval! I had the pleasure of attending the 4th annual, "Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle Expo" (#FBL2012), on Saturday. Produced by WDCW-TV/DC50, the "Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle Expo" is a meet and greet, shopping extravaganza and fashion show all in one. The Washington Convention Center was overflowing with "fashionistas" looking to schmooze with style icons (like Paul Wharton), shop, mix and mingle. Free makeovers, style sessions and over 60 vendors, made #FBL2012 an experience to behold. New this year, the CW Lounge which screened upcoming shows including the much anticipated "Carrie Diaries", said to profile the early days of Carrie Bradshaw, premiering next year. The models literally ripped the runway during a continuous fashion show produced by Event Producer, Maggy Francois and featuring Hush, Catwalk, Current boutiques and more. The most applauded efforts were for the little ones, modeling fashions on behalf of My Bougie Baby. Too cute!!

#ImAFoodie

I took notes on my FAVE oyster varieties.

You eva have one of the days where you say to yourself, "I'm ready to blow this joint." Well such was my day on Sunday. Following church, I had an itch to just get out. I'm not a football fanatic. I had a weekend to myself (meaning the kids were away #MommyMidday). And the weather was gorgeous! I had an oyster craving started by @JKnowsGoodFood, that I hadn't yet satisfied so ...A spot in DC I've long since loved for oysters, recently opened a new location, Hank's Oyster Bar aka Hank's On the Hill. And to put it in perspective, I text'ed a friend while dining who said her and hubby were considering for a date nite because she loved the other location. My reply, "If you love Hank's already, visiting the new location will make you love Hank's that much more." I absolutely believe that dining/eating out should be an experience. From the service to the food to the ambiance ...Everything should contribute to the overall experience. Hank's does not disappoint. From the bartender's amazing expertise as it relates to drinks and mixing and pairing to their very informed knowledge of the menu to just the personable, friendly and welcoming attitude of the staff.  BONUS: One of the bartender's allowed me to sip a drink not even on the menu. DELICIOUS! I hope it's added soon. The decor sets a warm and comfortable tone and the one bartender in particular with a voice made for the airwaves and a look like he stepped out of a Gladiator or Spartacus movie, didn't hurt either. VERY easy on the eyes ;-). I mean if posted up at the bar which I was, why not have a great view? Oh, did I satisfy my craving you ask? Yes, a dozen oysters on the half shell (one variety, the Golden Mantle ...So good, I didn't require cocktail sauce), lobster bisque and two must-have drinks ..."Virginia is for Lovers" which features an ice chunk (not a cube), the bartenders literally shave while you wait. And if a gin and tonic gal (I am), you must try the "Biggie Smalls." It features two gins #WhatsSippin. It was so good, I couldn't keep it to myself and extended an invitation to a friend to meet me at the bar ...#TalesOfSingledom ;-).

#BeautyTalk

Before 7 Day Whitening Treatment

So the weekend marked completion of my Crest 3D Whitestrips with Advanced Seal No Slip Technology Review. As of Sunday, I was done with the daily task of applying the strips and peeling them off after the recommended two hours although I typically kept the strips on for three hours. I applied in the morning when most busy, less inclined to eat and more stationary. A few points:

• The strips are very easy to apply
• The strips are barely visible once applied
• Noticeable when talking but the strips don't impair your ability to talk
• Upon peeling off, no residual gel left behind



After Removal of Strips

• The strips adhered to my teeth surprisingly well

After 7 Day Whitening Treatment

In conclusion, I would say the results are more a noticeable "brightness" as opposed to my teeth being whiter per se. I noticed a distinct "brightness" already on Day 3. The strips produce a result comparable to a highlighter you might apply to your face. My entire tooth isn't "whiter" but there is a "brightness" and less a sharp contrast so it's not like part of your tooth looks bright and the rest looks dull. When I smile, I see a difference and in the end it's about you. Anyone who knows me, knows I love to laugh and smile so while in the midst of the review, I felt like I was making a conscious effort to improve myself in some form. I did have some slight sensitivity which is to be expected so when I drank something particularly cold, I cringed a bit but it subsided in like 24 hours. I particularly love the feeling after peeling the strips off. My teeth had that post-dental visit feel when you wanna just run your tongue along your teeth because they feel so clean. I have a visibly "brighter" smile.

Lest I forget, I got my nails did too so #NailSwagBL in effect! Always nice (and necessary), to just sit and be completely pampered. Thanks to my Nail Artist, @MikalB23!!! How do you like this most recent design? Upon seeing a similar design on our #BeautyTalk Pinterest board, it made me think of a superhero and the pink signifies this month's focus on Breast Cancer Awareness. @MikalB23 worked her skills.

Tune into this week's #TalesOfSingledom featuring @lovein30days airing Wednesday, 7:30p EST on bagladiesradio.com.

All in the Name of Fashion!! #FNOGeorgetown

Lady Erin pictured on the Brightest Young Things/FNO red carpet on the patio of Dean and Deluca at the Private Press and VIP Kick-off Party.

What do you get when a bunch of so called "fashionistas" gather together in the name of fashion? A whole lot of shopping (just browsing for some), alot of picture taking and gawking and staring ("did you see that girl?", "what is she wearing?", "oh, that is a fashion don't.").

Fashion's Night Out was created in 2009 to not only celebrate fashion, but restore consumer confidence in the retail market during a time when the economy "sucked" (still does). Fashion's Night Out is a global initiative which initially started in New York, NY but is now a nationwide event highlighted by everything from designer appearances and fashion shows, to musical performances and various brand promotions.

The closest celebration around these parts, was Fashion's Night Out Georgetown (Washington, DC) 2012. Fashion's Night Out Georgetown is presented by the Georgetown Business Improvement District. There efforts along with the 2012 Fashion's Night Out Georgetown Host Committee, resulted in Georgetown being transformed into a fashion playground. Stores stay open later and offer splurge (that I did) inspiring promotions and there are a host of events like the Vitaminwater Zero sponsored PNC Pop-Up Disco. One is made to feel like a true "fashionista" with various red carpet photo ops. And you could even get your complimentary "ride" on via Capitol Pedicabs, most attractive to those trekking (or trying to), the cobblestone streets of G'Town in 6 inch pumps. I personally refused to sacrifice comfort for fashion on this night. The fashion camaraderie is electrifying I must say. I met some of my fave bloggers, saw fellow "fashionistas" and hung out with SapphireBlu. How much damage did I do in the name of fashion you ask?? The pics tell the story. #PassionForFashion

Celebs were in abundance at Fashion's Night Out Georgetown. Paul Wharton at the exclusive Dean and Deluca Private Press and VIP Kick-Off Party in action and doing what he does best.

There were Teepees even! All In The Name of Fashion ...

The roadmap to the abundance of activities/events for  Fashion's Night Out Georgetown. Once I had this in hand I was ready to hit the town (G'Town). 

Sights to behold. She was too cute!!

My view from the complimentary pedicab ride offered by Capitol Pedicabs. 

My driver got his exercise on! Pulling and tugging me, ain't easy ;-).

I've arrived. Time to shop. It was downhill from here. The "shopaholic" in me, took ova! 

Upon stopping at Madewell, we loved The Braid Bar. Young "fashionistas" were lined up. 

Some of the styles being offered at the Madewell Braid Bar.

The stylist was awesome. I was tempted to let her tame my mane but decided to keep shopping instead ;-).

An in-store DJ at Cusp. Just one of many highlights of the night. 

The pic doesn't do this style justice. The color was awesome! Wish I had gotten a better shot of the heel. Hard to say no but Sapphire Blu and I kept it moving.  

Madewell, Cusp, Zara ...Just some of the damage done on this night. Perhaps I will post what I scored after the guilt subsides. I will say, the discounts being offered as per Fashion's Night Out, were irresistible. I paid full price for nada!!!!! The life of a "shopaholic." Note: A too cute and FREE tote along with a FAB broach was offered at Cusp with every purchase.

My Fashion's Night Out tote and tank. Something to remember the night by. Although the lack of funds in my account are likely enough of a reminder ;-)

#WhatsSippin ...What better way to end the night than with food and drink. This drank was tagged as "Devil Wears Prada" by Bandolero, just for Fashion's Night Out. One of the best dranks ever! I'm vying for them to keep it on the menu.

Oysters w/ watermelon salsa at Bandolero. Delicious! We ordered three orders. 

Suckling Pig Tacos w/ a fab habanero sauce at Bandolero. Just as good as our server suggested.

We couldn't stop!!! You might as well call this dessert seeing as how we ordered after we had finished our drinks, appetizers and entrees. The best plantains!!! And that cream sauce is indescribable, gracious!

FAVE FIND: Marc by Marc Jacobs laptop bag. It was reduced significantly at Cusp. I had just told myself that I needed another now that I've made the switch to a MACBook thus the purchase is justified. At least that's what I will keep telling myself.

Fashion's Night Out Georgetown was sponsored by: Capitol File Magazine, BrightestYoungThings.com, Vital Voices, DC Scout, Capital Party Rentals, Vitaminwater, Smartwater, City Eats, bisnow, UBER, Grey Goose