Sexy (and Catty) Style

DC Style, which was in danger of being lost among the glossy pile of Washington Life, Capitol File, and DC magazine, is giving itself a makeover. Proclaiming itself “DC’s Sexiest Magazine,” the new January issue of the magazine looks a lot more like Cosmo than Capitol File, as the Reliable Source points out.

Owner Dana Spain-Smith takes a not-so-subtle jab at the competition (cough, Jason Binn, cough) in her letter announcing the makeover: “One thing no one can deny is that we’ve remained dedicated to celebrating the best of local culture. STYLE is exclusive, but we are never exclusionary. Our pages don’t pander to Hollywood A-listers and we may not feature personal jets as a must-have item, but inside every issue you will find a wealth of information about what makes the D.C. lifestyle truly unique and how to best take advantage of it.”

Whether that makeover is enough to make DC Style stand out in a crowded market is yet to be determined. DC Style has been noticably thinner than its Capitol File and DC Magazine competitors and has been thinner than its Philly Styler sister.

Her full letter is after the jump.

> The Philly Inky points out that Dana’s company, DLG Media, stands for “Daddy’s Little Girl.”

LETTER FROM THE OWNER

It’s a new year and we at STYLE have made a resolution–one we promise to keep. Starting now you’ll see our sexier, wilder side; and as always, we’ll stay true to our readers.

Since we launched in early 2005, our team has strived to deliver a fresh and sharply written product that serves as an insider’s guide to the D.C. area. We eschewed partisan politics to concentrate on how to live, work and play in Washington–though that drew criticism from some who labeled us as fl uffy. (We prefer to say that STYLE has always been and always will be
a positive magazine.)

One thing no one can deny is that we’ve remained dedicated to celebrating the best of local culture. STYLE is exclusive, but we are never exclusionary. Our pages don’t pander to Hollywood A-listers and we may not feature personal jets as a must-have item, but inside every issue you will find a wealth of information about what makes the D.C. lifestyle truly unique and how to best take advantage of it. Turn to STYLE for profi les that introduce you to your enterprising and philanthropic neighbors, or flip through an issue for fun and fast tidbits on the best shopping and dining in the city.

Just think of us as your stylish and in-the-know friend who never fails to give you the lowdown on everything from the latest in truly wearable fashion to the newest trends in the D.C. nightlife.

Coming soon to STYLE is the New You section, which will entertain and educate with features on how to make 2006 your best year yet. From fitness and relationship advice to beauty and home design tips, the New You will be your resource for fun resolutions that you won’t mind keeping.

In the meantime, I invite you to read our annual Bridal and Romance issue. It’s a celebration of the power of love, the lure of romance and the pleasure of being just a little bit naughty. Whether you’re walking down the aisle, in love with love or just enjoying the thrill of the chase, this issue will speak to you through fantastic stories and photography that sets your imagination alight.
So put on whatever makes you feel sexy, treat yourself to a glass of wine and dive into chocolate-drenched indulgence with D.C.’s sexiest magazine. I know I will.

Dana Spain-Smith, COO

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