The Grand Dame Karen Huger Gives A Master Class On Style & Elegance
The Grand Dame Karen Huger is known for being hilarious, fashionable and most of all the glue that holds the Housewives of Potomac together regardless of who comes and goes over the years. In our exclusive conversation with Karen, we get the scoop on her hosting tips, fashion rules she lives by and what viewers can expect from the newest season of the show!
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
Skirt Set: Moschino Earrings: Chanel
My biggest style inspiration is Coco Chanel who embraced the modern woman while courting elegance and simplicity. Chanel was well aware that women were capable of sitting on the board doing the week and driving her motorcycle on the weekend. Now that’s power.
If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be?
If I could only wear one outfit for the rest of my life, I would perish. I believe a woman should dress for the occasion never striking out; one outfit just would not do.
As someone who embodies class and poise, what are your top three etiquette tips for hosting a perfect holiday dinner party?
As the host of my dinner parties, I always begin with curating a menu that something for everyone. Considering dietary restrictions are a must. Cooking in advance is a must, being stuck in the kitchen during dinner is a no no. Finally, and most importantly, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. I like to mix my seating chart a bit. I prefer seating people beside people who don’t know one another, this way, I ensure interesting conversation.
Name cards are a must. Finally, my table setting, the linen is always crisp, the glassware and flatware arranged in the order of the courses on the menu with a centerpiece of beautiful seasonally appropriate floral arrangement.
Jacket & Shorts: Moschino Boots: Alexander Wang
Can you share a memorable glamorous moment from your life that perfectly encapsulates your personality or values?
The most memorable glamorous moment of my life was at the Kennedy Center. I had the wonderful opportunity of meeting one of my heroes, Miss Rosa Parks. Miss Parks was in line behind me. I took that opportunity to put the values to work that my parents instilled in me. I turned around, said hello politely and offered her my advanced place in line so that she would be first served before me. Showing respect and gratitude for what she meant not only to me but our country.
We all have those fashion moments we regret! What’s the biggest fashion faux pas you’ve ever made, and what did you learn from it?
My biggest fashion regret was recently at a friend’s party. I wore a very fashionable animal print skirt which had the most dreadful high slit up the front left thigh to my panty line every time I sat down my panties decided to make an appearance. This taught me to always carry a wrap, which I did thank goodness.
Coat: Stylbert Alta Moda (Vintage) Necklace: Chanel Boots: Versace
What are three wardrobe essentials that every woman should have in her closet to feel confident and chic?
Open the closet of any confident fashionably chic woman and I guarantee you will find a tailored blazer which can be dressed up or down for any occasion. The infamous white button-down shirt can pull you together for the boardroom or roll up the sleeves and you can go have cocktails with the girls after work. Finally, you will definitely find a pair of black tailored pants. The pants too can be dressed up or down appropriate for fun or business.
How does your background influence your approach to fashion and style? Are there specific cultural elements that you incorporate into your looks?
My mother was a classy elegantly dressed woman. Mom had a profound impact on my fashion and style. She knew how to dress for every occasion. If we were going out to a picnic, she would dress for a picnic simple and appropriate. If she were going to a fancy affair she would dress elegantly, feminine yet powerful. My sense of style came from my mom. I can put on my jeans and boots and drive a Harley Davidson, or I can show up at the White House in the most fabulous evening gown. My fashion sense screams dress appropriately for each education.
You frequently attend high-profile events. What’s your go-to strategy for making a memorable entrance while remaining understated yet elegant?
Washington DC is famous for hosting high-profile events. I believe in simple elegance for this type of affair. You often see me dressed on the red carpet, wearing an off-the-shoulder bodice-fitting evening gown accompanied by a single-strand diamond tennis necklace and diamond stud earrings. Less is best for this type of occasion.
Jacket & Shorts: Moschino Boots: Alexander Wang
How has your personal style evolved over the years, and what has inspired those changes?
My personal choice in fashion is ever evolving. I feel that my choices get better each decade. I am confident that my fashion choices encapsulate a confident, wise, elegant, powerful, sexy woman. Dress, how I feel blessed.
For those looking to elevate their own class and elegance, what advice would you give to help them navigate social situations with confidence?
My advice, when looking to elevate one’s elegance would be to embrace your confidence in who you are and what you bring to the game in navigating social situations with confidence. Dress appropriately for the occasion and take your shot.
Skirt Set: Moschino Earrings: Chanel
What is your go to fragrance for leaving your mark?
My go to Fragrance is always “La’Dame” by yours truly. It does not scream I’m here! Rather, my Fragrance leaves its footprints trailing behind me inevitably sparking conversation because people want to know who’s that girl wearing that Fragrance. I am my best spokesperson.
Top 5 restaurants that are must in Potomac?
As you all know, Potomac is a tiny jewel of a town. I love supporting my favorite restaurants Tally Ho, Hunters, Potomac Pizza, Clyde’s and I last, but not least, Mazi Restaurant.
Coat: Stylbert Alta Moda (Vintage) Necklace: Chanel Boots: Versace
What is next for you and what episode should everyone watch of Real Housewives of Potomac?
At the moment, I am renovating the farmhouse I purchased in my hometown. If you recall, I produced on Bravo my family special, The Grande Dame Family Reunion, featuring the slave plantation my family now owns. The renovated house will serve as a guesthouse for visitors to Surry County, Virginia.
This season of The Real Housewives of Potomac promises to be nothing less than earth-shattering fun shenanigans. With the addition of our new cast members, this season is on fire.
Skirt Set: Moschino Earrings: Chanel
TEAM CREDITS:
Interview By Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Photographer: Savanna Ruedy (@savannarruedy)
Hair Stylist: Ray Christopher (@hair4kicks)
Makeup Artist: Angie Coronado (@angelicavcoronado)
