Sidewalk Style: Bright in Tights

Robyn Mitchell, 23
Communications intern at One, a grassroots campaign and advocacy organization committed to the fight against extreme poverty and preventable disease, particularly in Africa.

What she’s wearing: An Old Navy dress with an H&M scarf and Zara cardigan and her mother’s briefcase from the 1980s. Her belt and tights are from T.J. Maxx, her flats from Nine West.

I love the pattern on pattern!
“I’ve noticed that black is DC’s color of choice, and while I am definitely a fan of classic chic, fall is such a vibrantly colorful season that I feel the desire to reflect it in my wardrobe. My favorite thing to do is make unexpected pairings, playing with texture and patterns. I like a feminine, youthful look.”

You’ve taken warmer-weather pieces and made them work for fall. Any tips to share about that?
“As a recent grad making a career as a professional intern, I’m constantly on the lookout for ways to make my wardrobe multi-seasonal. As you can tell from the labels that I’m wearing, fashion on a dime is my forte. With a few cute fall accessories like colorful tights and a cardigan, it instantly becomes more suitable—and cozier—for fall weather. My best advice is to invest in a few layering pieces like cardigans, turtlenecks, and a classic pair of boots to extend the shelf life of your spring and summer wardrobe into the fall. I never have to make the choice between great style and grocery shopping!”

What are the hallmarks of your look?
“If it’s bright, has a pattern, and cinches at the waist with a belt, we’re destined to be. I am almost always in a dress or skirt, with frilly shirts and pieces with delicate details. One of my favorite places to go ‘shopping’ is in my grandmother’s closet. She used to make dresses for a distributor of Christian Dior when she lived in England in the early 1950s. She would makes dresses for herself by constructing the Dior patterns from memory.”

What’s on your wish list for fall and winter?
“I’m on the hunt for a classic pair of brown leather riding boots, a pair of black or charcoal ankle boots, and vintage belts. I also would like to experiment more with accessories, particularly large statement pieces like necklaces, earrings and brooches (for my bevy of scarves). I’m a regular at Eastern Market on weekends, which is a great place to find one-of-a-kind jewelry, so you’ll be sure to catch me there scouting for the latest finds.”

Rachel says:
For those who saw our Sidewalk Style last week, here’s another great way to use scarves to add brilliant color and pattern to your wardrobe. The last chance to visit the FreshFarm market near the White House this season is Thursday, so don’t miss it—yummy produce, breads, and people-watching galore.