Riffs on a Classic
French Fries and ketchup, Kelly and Zach, the Kardashians and drama — some things are just meant to be paired together. I feel similarly about summer and cocktails. They go together so well. At a pool, at a BBQ, or even just sitting on the deck after a day at the office, a cocktail is so refreshing when summer temps are at their highest.
We are fortunate in Alexandria to have many great establishments that not only serve delicious classic cocktails, but innovative riffs on the classics, too. Whether it be homemade tonic to elevate a gin and tonic, or adding aged rum to ever-so-slightly sweeten a Manhattan, summer allows our local mixologists to flex their creative muscles — and we benefit by enjoying their creative concoctions.
Similarly, at Kiskadee, classic summer silhouettes are available along with of-the-moment pieces. Summer basics like a classic sheath, white denim, and strappy sandals can be found in most women’s wardrobes, but sometimes we want something a little bit different — we want a rift on the classic. Whether it be a fresh color, interesting material, or an unexpected cut, as customers we look to stores like Kiskadee to provide us with a selection of not only the classics but special pieces, too.
With both clothing and cocktails, sometimes you’re in the mood for a classic, and sometimes you want something a little bit different. Below we have paired a few of our favorite classic summer pieces with a corresponding of-the-moment piece. Looks that you might wear for an afternoon at the pool, to work, or to a cocktail party. With each set of looks we included our favorite (and tested!) rift-on-the-classic cocktail. If you try the cocktails let us know — we’d love to hear what you think!
To the Pool
The Classic: This pink linen shift is oversized and comfortable and can as easily be thrown on over your bathing suit as it can be worn as a dress with flip flops. As Darby reminded us, “embrace the wrinkles!”
Of-the-Moment: The chambray linen material, the darker hue, and the semi-fitted top of this tank dress elevates it from a simple dress to something more. The dress has a bit more structure and is wearable from the pool with sandals to dinner with wedges or a block heel.
The Cocktail: When made with an artificial mix, margaritas can be overly sweet. Keep your margarita fresh and light with a mixture that doesn’t sacrifice on taste and incorporates a few bubbles in the form of soda water. The key is to make sure you use a good tequila (and, of course, fresh fruit juice). What’s better than a fresh margarita at the pool?
9-5
The Classic: This BCBG beige linen long vest is the epitome of clean and classic. Streamlined and simple, the shoulder epaulettes, defined waistline, and front pockets give this just the right amount of detail for the office. The fit is structured and professional, but not tight or constricting.
Of-the-Moment: This colorful slightly fit-and-flare silhouette is as flattering as it is fun. The tank style and moderate V neck makes it comfortable and appropriate, and the colors and patterns are sure to make you smile even in the dullest of meetings.
The Cocktail: Instead of glass of red or white wine at your work happy hour try a glass of rosé. Rosés are light and refreshing and encompass a variety of fruity notes. Chateau Miraval, in Provence, produces a lovely rose that is now on many local wine lists. Side note, this is Brangelina’s vineyard.
The Cocktail Party
The Classic: Far from boring, the classic shape of the shift silhouette is elevated by the gold material. The fit is somewhat forgiving, as the material contains some stretch and it has a slight A-line. It can be simply worn with a pair of high nude or black ankle strap sandals or accessorized with a statement necklace or bracelet.
Of-the-Moment: Everything about this dress is unusual and attention-grabbing. The color is bright and the refined high-low hem is dramatic. Even the back, which isn’t pictured, has a bit of drama. Accessorizing this with nude ankle strap heels and gold jewelry would make the look unforgettable.
The Cocktail: My favorite cocktail is a glass of good champagne, but sometimes adding a few simple ingredients makes for pleasant change. The Blueberry Mist combines champagne, blueberry vodka, and a few fresh blueberries to create a refreshing twist on a classic.
Cocktail Recipes
Blueberry Mist
1 glass of champagne topped with Stoli blueberry vodka
3 fresh blueberries
Margarita
2oz Don Julio Anejo Tequila (good tequila makes all the difference)
Juice of 1½ fresh limes and ½ fresh lemon
Soda water
Ice
Add all ingredients to a salt rimmed margarita glass and enjoy!
