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I've been to DC before, but this past weekend the charming neighborhoods, lined with centuries old rowhouses and walk-ups, really started to grow on me. There's something about the scale of the city and the abundance of open, public space that I can appreciate. Special thanks go out to my good friend Will (Urban Turf) for giving me an insider's look at the landscape. The weekend in pictures:

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This weekend, I'm headed to DC for DC FRESHLY SQUEEZED and while packing I realized that I don't own a proper weekender. I have a messenger, suitcases in various sizes, totebags galore, but no weekender. Frankly, I've never been able to make much sense of a category of portage that specifies the number of days for recommended use. What if it's a long weekend? Do I need to pack a weekender PLUS an overnight bag?

Luckily for those of us that have yet to master the art of packing for travel, Ally Capellino makes bags for all occasions. The 30-year-old British bag-maker's collection of signature waxed cotton satchels, rucksacks, and washbags are lined with subtle striped cotton and feature detailed webbing handles & leather buckle down straps.  My personal favorite is the 'Freddie Stripey', pictured above.

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Whoever said too much of a good thing is a bad thing will most likely eat their words after seeing the new Monocle x BEAMS collaboration. The covetable timepieces are limited to an edition of 200 and are available to the public early next month in two colors: olive & brown. To pre-order yours, email shop@monocle.com.

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With Michelle Obama now J. Crew's biggest fan, eyes are turning to the brains behind the brand's renaissance. Much has been touted of former Gap head and current J. Crew CEO Mickey Drexler -- some call him a retailing icon, others a kingmaker. In my opinion, Drexler is nothing short of visionary.  Not a believer? Check out the interview he did with Charlie Rose in 2008, below.

Still not convinced? Read the 2008 article on Drexler by FORTUNE, here.

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Our friends at Little Radio invite you to come down tonight to Cole's for a new downtown Monday night with battling iPods. Bring your best playlist & a healthy appetite. And please, leave your Nickelback catalogue at home.