Sips and Style in Alexandria, Virginia {Guest Post}

Hey Mishap readers!  My name is Whitney and I blog over at Whitney à la mode where I share my personal style as well as little snippets of my life as a French teacher in Michigan.  I'm so excited to be guest posting for Katie while she's on vacation.  As a fellow single gal who spends most of her time in a classroom, I feel like Katie and I are kindred spirits!

Amongst other things Katie and I have in common, I am also on vacation this week!  Well, kind of.  I used to live in the Washington D.C. area, specifically Alexandria, Virginia, and I am back there visiting friends and a few of my favorite haunts.

Since I post mostly about my personal style, today I thought I would share a few of my past outfits that are perfect for visiting hot and humid D.C. during the summer.  And since Katie is always up on the most delicious drinks of the season, I thought I would give you a few pointers as to where to find the best beverages in Old Town, Alexandria!

Style

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I know that I've already mentioned it, but summers in Washington D.C. are hot and sticky!  Did you know that D.C. was built on a swamp?  Since a trip to the capital will likely involve lots of activity and walking, I suggest cool and comfortable clothes.  Here are four different looks (one from each of my summers as a blogger) that would work for a D.C. vacation this time of year!  And my top suggestions are:

-A romper!  I was a little scared of rompers at first because I would consider my style to be more classic as opposed to trendy.  Now that I've found a few I love, I'm a total convert!  They can be just as comfy and flattering as a summer dress but you know what?  They prevent that chub rub between the thighs.  You ladies with the curves know what I'm talking about!  When the temperatures rise, it can get uncomfortable down there.  You don't have to worry about that with a romper!

-Comfy, flat shoes.  While touring the capital and surrounding areas, you never know what kind of terrain you will be walking on.  And you will be walking a lot.  I would maybe through in a pair of wedges for a night out but stick mostly with flats that you will be comfortable in all day!  Detailed sandals, ballet flats and a pair of Converse are my particular favorites.

-A denim vest.  I love a good layered look but you aren't going to want many layers in the heat.  A denim vest is a great way to add interest to an outfit without having to cover your arms.

-A day-to-night maxi.  You never know where your day in the city will take you.  I love a comfy maxi dress that works during the day but can be dressed up for the evening!  Check out that last post for the nighttime alternative to this look!

Sips

Now touring a big city like Washington D.C. can be a bit overwhelming.  If I could suggest one neighborhood for fun food, drinks and shopping, I would hands-down recommend Old Town, Alexandria!  In fact, I chose to live only five minutes from Old Town and it's where I spent most of my free time.  Here are my suggestions for beverages (and food) in Old Town!

Grape and Bean was my all-time favorite place to be while living in Alexandria.  Like the name implies, they are known for their wine and coffee!  I'm also a sucker for their delicious cheese plates and seasonal salads.  The staff at Grape and Bean are always warm and welcoming and I can't wait to see them again!

Virtue Feed & Grain is a great place for brunch or happy hour!  I personally would recommend a delicious Bloody Mary for brunch.  My friends tell me that they've taken their delicious nachos off of their menu but I'm already excited to try some new items during happy hour!

Pizza Paradiso is the place for you if you love delicious pizza and an extensive beer list.  My personal favorite is an Insalata Mista followed by the Atomica pizza! 

So, if you happen to be in Old Town this week, maybe I'll see you at one of my favorite watering holes.  And if you are planning a trip soon, I hope you'll consider my recommendations.

Please stop by to see me at Whitney à la mode!

Thanks, Katie for hosting me here today and I hope that you are enjoying your vacation!

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