Chloe Thompson

Models from the Crystal Couture runway shows strike a pose.

Cold Temps but a Hot Week in Fashion

Steps from the Crystal City Metro in Virginia, shoppers are rejoicing and designers are hawking their wares at discounted prices while models strut down the runway.

During this week’s Crystal Couture, through Sat., Feb. 5, Crystal City BID  welcomes fashion in all forms to turn what used to be a food court into a hotbed for style. It all takes place in the Crystal City Underground.

This year’s theme, “Exotic and Elegant to Everything Everyday,” brings celeb hosts such as art-crowd favorite Phillpa Hughes (Pinkline Project) and Bianca Chardei (“America’s Next Top Model” contestant) to get residents and visitors excited about the 20-plus boutiques showcased throughout the week. With runway shows every 20 minutes, and designers on hand to eagerly talk shop about their gorgeous pieces, it’s an event not to miss.

Crystal City BID President Angela Fox was on hand at the event’s kickoff to share her excitement about the weeklong show, which was mostly snowed out last year.

Crystal Couture, she says, is, “all about costume changes and transformation, dressing the part and then being good to go, but you have to do it in a way that’s easy, sensible, fun and affordable.”

Maggy Francois, who is the VP of education and training in the Greater Washington Fashion Chamber of Commerce, personally selected each of the boutiques represented during Crystal Couture. She’s no newbie to the show, either—for the past two years, she helped her students show their designs at Crystal Couture and has planned “gazillions” of fashion-related events in the D.C.-metro area.

 “We’re trying to stick true to the word ‘couture,’ and that’s what we want to show as well as everyday wear,” says Francois.

It seems Francois has done her job well. Athletic wear from Pacers sits near founder of D.C. Fashion Week Ean William’s Corjor International, while a few steps away is a bridal collection, consignment finds and organic-cotton tees of all sizes. Price points are affordable—some pieces are $20, while others ring up just under $1,000—but one thing is for sure: Washingtonians and those visiting the area will eat up the different styles under one roof in Crystal City.

Crystal City Couture, 1750 Crystal Drive, Arlington, Va.; running through Feb. 5. Full schedule of events, including runway times, found here.