Kate is a familiar face in the Washington social scene and a socialite must always look her best for those spur of the moment photo ops. Kate’s statuesque figure makes any outfit she wears on the town look extra special. She wears the clothes and never allows the clothes to wear her. That’s why many local designers and boutiques have made her the face for their advertising campaigns. Recently, Kate became the newest face for Fashion Fights Poverty. Some might follow trends but her style is all her own and is consistent. Whether she is just hanging with the guys at Rugby to watch the Redskins or sushi and drinks with the girls at Mate, the girl once described by designer Zac Posen as a “Zac girl” during an Elle magazine photoshoot, always looks chic. She’s got brains, beauty, style and class and Kate certainly is chic in the city.
Name: Kate Michael
Occupation: Green Collar Jobs Program Analyst (DOES), Blogger, Freelance Writer, Model
Neighborhood: Foggy Bottom
How would you describe your look?
City Sophisticated
What should every woman have in her wardrobe?
At least one black pencil skirt and a sexy red dress
Do you have a fashion mentor?
Not exactly. There are those whose styles I like, but I think fashion – and knowing what looks best on your particular figure – is personal.
Who are your favorite designers?
Badgely Mischka, Valentino, Nicole Miller, Escada and Givenchy are some of my favorites.
What designers or labels do you actually wear the most?
My closet is full of cocktail dresses by Black Halo, Nicole Miller and Reiss. To work, I like Theory and DVF.
First designer item ever bought?
It was probably a DVF wrap dress… but the first truly memorable item was an Escada evening suit purchased at the flagship store in NYC.
Where do you shop?
These days, largely online. Some of my favorite stores and websites include Reiss, Cusp, Club Monaco, basics from Victoria’s Secret online, and finding some steals on http://www.gilt.com/.
What are you lusting after right now?I think the Badgely Mischka Belted Ombre Dress would be an absolute stunner at the office or a daytime political function.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without?
The one FASHION ACCESSORY I must have is Dior Show mascara. Otherwise, it’s probably my blackberry.
To Latenight or Not to Latenight?
Depends on my mood – but usually YES!
In one sentence, what do you actually do all day in your job?
I search for economically and environmentally sustainable employment training and job opportunties for District residents.
What’s your favorite bar?
This changes constantly. This very second… Tattoo.
What’s in your DVD player right now?
Roman Holiday. It’s my favorite movie… I watch it over and over.
How much is too much to spend on a pedicure?
$50
When’s bedtime?
I try to hit the pillow by 1 am…
Brunch: pro or con?
Brunch = food and friends together. Pro!
Most expensive thing in your closet?
I have a pageant gown or two valued at ~$3,000. They are about the only reason I need condo insurance…
Vogue, Elle or Bazaar?
Elle – I have to go with the mag that gave me a full page feature (Jan. 2007) But I love the articles in Vogue, too.
What do you hate most about living in DC?
I have to leave the city to go to a real Chick-fil-A.
Metro, Cab it or Drive?Metro whenever possible.
Style icon who represents your style the most?
Audrey Hepburn – classic and chic.
Ravens or Redskins?
Redskins, of course.
If you could be anything what would it be?
Hmmm… other than a Victoria’s Secret model? I might like to be Editor of major newspaper or magazine.
Would you rather be a superhero or a villain?
What powers would you have? Superhero. I love doing good and looking good. I would erase innocent pain and suffering.
What is the one thing you do often when no one is looking?
I don’t know… take off my shoes? :)
