Courtesy of Readyset DC

Watch models walk the runway during next weekend's Readyset DC.

Great Fall Fashion Buys: Readyset DC

Think New York is the only place to catch a fashion runway show up close? Not so—D.C. is stepping up to the plate with the presentation of Fashion District Fall 2011 from Readyset DC, a weekend highlighting local designers Oct. 14−16.  

If rubbing elbows with the brightest young fashion minds in Washington sounds like your idea of a great Friday night, check out Fashion District’s kick off meet and greet at The Dunes (1402 Meridian Place, NW; four blocks from Columbia Heights Metro) from 7 p.m.−11 p.m. You’ll find D.C. designer darlings such as Derringer Friday (check out his best picks for fall here) and Hugh & Crye. Sip on wine or cocktails while getting a special sneak peek at nearly a dozen designers’ presentations before they hit the catwalk. Free entry; online RSVP required.

Don’t miss the main event on Saturday: the runway show. For the fourth time, Readyset DC delivers a live action runway show and a seriously fabulous party—and yes, we know from experience. A $40 ticket gets you an open bar from 8:30 until midnight and access to the general admission, standing-room-only fashion show at the Eastern Market North Hall. Featured designers include Derringer Friday, Hugh & Crye,  Ginger Root Designs, Saint CHIC and  Durkl. Though many of the brands have gained national attention, featured designers got their start right here in the District. Get your tickets here.

Emcee of the upcoming show, Jordan Culberson of Readyset DC, says the event showcases the diversity of D.C. fashion. “You can find anything from neck ties to street-wear to internationally-inspired style,” she says.

Though D.C. has a habit of being all “cocktail attire and gowns,” at the galas in the area, Culberson says the Readyset DC event is all about local designers and “real, cutting-edge style in D.C.”

For travelers spending the weekend in the D.C. area, the Fashion District events represent an unconventional way to experience the District’s urban glamor. Maybe you just need to pick up a new tie while you’re in town? Find a fun shopping event on Sunday, Oct. 16, also at The Dunes, to complement your ideal fall look—or get a head start on your holiday shopping. From a personal perspective, some of my favorite go-to pieces have come from pop-up shops from Fashion District—guaranteed to please, no matter what your budget. Some Flyer favorites on tap: vintage from Pretty People, the fall collection from Artaya (right) and cozy scarves from de*nada Design (left) Photos courtesy of designers.

I’d just act fast. As Culberson says, “If you don’t buy it, it goes away.” Find a range of fall looks from 2 p.m−6 p.m. on Sunday. Free admission; RSVP required online.

For more details on this fashion packed weekend go to: http://Readysetdc.com/fd.