The Art of Buying

THE PARTY The Fashion Group International of Greater Washington, DC hosted an informative discussion about the “art of buying” with Ken Downing, Fashion Director and Senior VP of Neiman Marcus in the stylish offices of Covington Law Firm at CityCenterDC. FGIDC Regional Director Elaine Mensah led the fireside chat with Downing to uncover the tips and talents he’s secured while leading fashion editors and over 200 merchants in predicting trends for one of fashion’s most iconic department stores. After the talk, guests sipped a special edition Zac Posen designed Pinot Grigio donated by Ecco Domani while nibbling light bites.

THE PEOPLE 85 of Washington’s finest fashionistas turned out to learn from one of the best in the business. Guests included bloggers, business owners and designers. Designer Kim Eileen, stylist Alison Beshai and artist Drew Storm Graham were among the stylish attendees.

BEST IN SHOW DC Darlings! While Downing talked at length about his impressive career path and the changing retail landscape, he also made sure to point out DC’s evolving fashion scene. Downing makes regular trips to DC and feels that the conservative fashion stereotype is completely obsolete. It only took one look at the trendy crowd to see that DC is much more than pantsuits and plaid.

Photography by A Little Bit of Whimsy