DABNEY LANGHORNE DOSWELL
This newly arrived interior designer and
D.C. native brings her sophisticated eye
for design and style back home. Here,
she sits down with personal stylist
Alison Lukes.
ALISON LUKES: What are some examples of
great style in Washington that inspire you?
DABNEY DOSWELL: I take inspiration
from Washington's downtown Mall and
monuments. It's a beautiful example of
precise, well-organized, no-frills and elegant
design. The mall is mostly a composition of
monochromatic greens and ivories, faded
colors that create subtle forms and clean lines,
yet they are extremely complex and detailed.
It easily translates into chic, neo-classical/neotraditional,
simple and casually elegant style.
AL: Is there a difference in how people
approach style and design in Washington as
compared to New York City?
DD: New York is a melting pot of fashion, art
and design. It thrives on change - and as a result
sacrifices a real design tradition. Washington, on
the other hand, is well aware of its history. One
has to be creative, expressive, and stylish while
maintaining respect for the institutions, offices,
and protocols of this town. When it's pulled off
correctly, it is striking.
AL: What are some of the trends you emphasize?
DD: Trends and thoughtful interior design
rarely mix, in my opinion. The purpose of a welldesigned
space is to be both timeless and chic- like Chanel. Have fun with trends in small doses.
Focus instead on quality.
AL: What do you miss most about New York?
DD: The energy.
AL: What are you most enjoying about
being back in Washington?
DD: Washington is style hungry – I like that. I also
like that Washington's younger generation is so
involved in philanthropy and small business. |
