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What I Wear to Work: The Phillips Collection’s Party Planner

Maria sticks to arty, elegant pieces and plenty of vibrant colors.

Who: Maria Belen Vizcaino, 28
Special events coordinator, the Phillips Collection

What she does: The special events director and I plan and execute every internal event at the Phillips—that includes everything from exhibit opening receptions with donors to Phillips After 5. I’ve also assisted with our annual gala and its after-party.

Describe your work style: A mix of classic and edgy. I love men’s fashion, and I love wearing slacks and dressy pants, but I also enjoy embracing my girly side with form-fitting skirts and A-line dresses. My go-to is a nice pair of black pants with a bright top, a graphic tee, or a nice crisp button-down. I am greatly influenced by the art I see every day, but I would be lying if I didn’t say I’ve always loved fashion and expressing myself through my clothes.

Exhibit Opening

This dress makes me feel very girly and classic. The color is amazing.

J.Crew dress and belt, and BCBG pumps.

Partnership Meeting for Donor Events

I like pencil skirts and a jacket or a button-down; I think it’s the modern suit. I love how professional this combination looks, and it makes me feel confident.

J.Crew skirt, the Shirt by Rochelle Behrens button-down, and BCBG pumps.

Phillips Gala

I feel extremely elegant in this dress. It can be dressed up or down.

Aldo shoes and unknown dress.

Regular Day

I love mixing patterns. It’s a bold move that makes me feel a little edgy at work, which sometime is hard to do.

BCBG striped skirt, Madewell polka-dot tank, and H&M jacket.

All photographs by Kate Warren. 

Think you or someone you know deserves a chance in the What I Wear to Work spotlight? Email szlotnick@washingtonian.com with pictures and a job description for consideration. 

Sarah is the Editor-in-Chief of Washingtonian Bride & Groom, and writes about weddings, fashion, and shopping. Her work has also appeared in Refinery29, Bethesda Magazine, and Washington City Paper, among others. She is a Georgetown University graduate, lives in Columbia Heights, and you can find her on Instagram at @washbridegroom and @sarahzlot.