A City in Bloom: A Fresh Look in Self Portrait Amidst the Cherry Blossoms

Springtime in the Nation's Capital is often synonymous with the flowering of the cherry blossom trees throughout Washington, D.C. The Cherry Blossom Festival marks the beginning of spring with the the blooming of the trees given by the mayor of Tokyo in 1912 to symbolize the friendship between the US and Japan. Today, the city celebrates with parades, concerts and events that are held amidst the deliciously pink and delicate flowers and stately monuments. 

This year, I visited Washington, D.C. to take in the first sights of Spring on the East Coast. Just a quick train ride from NYC, it makes for an idyllic 24 hours. 

Dressed with spring in mind - I donned the picture perfect lace eyelet midi dress by design house Self Portrait. Creative director, Han Chong, has created the perfectly feminine pieces for any season but this pastel colored variety of his dress lent perfectly to the sights and sounds of DC in Spring. Self Portrait is a relative new comer to the contemporary womenswear scene, having only launched in 2013. But in less than three years, Chong's looks have certainly garnered a good deal of attention from celebrities and publications alike. 

I will say, his pieces are as wearable as they are beautiful and if you are looking for something to make an impression but not bankrupt your wallet - his collection is the perfect choice. 

Self Portrait also just launched a collaboration with my go-to for stylish sunglasses, Le Specs. The Australian brand has provided me with some of my favorite statement sunglasses and this collaboration combines two of my favorites. Be sure to check them both out. 

If you are a springtime enthusiast, head down to DC in the next few weeks to catch a glimpse of the cherry blossoms and cap off your day at the ultra-cool and inventive restaurant, Masseria. The restaurant is also a relative newcomer to the DC food scene and far surpasses any other restaurant I have been to - I highly recommend a dinner there after a day amidst the springtime blooms.