Gaithersburg, MD September 2025 by City Lifestyle

MAR IA TORREZ

MAR IAN STYLE

BOU TIQUE ROCKVILLE

AS A WASHINGTONIAN TOP DENTIST AND THE FACE OF SMILE MAKEOVER,

Smiles of Chevy Chase is known for redefining the dental experience by blending advanced technology, personalized care, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Receive all your dental needs in one location with a team you can trust!

Located in the heart of Chevy Chase, our premier office is designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable environment where your oral health is our top priority.

From general dentistry to cosmetic transformations, state-of-the-art implant surgery, and expertise in sedation dentistry, we combine artistry and precision to create beautiful, healthy smiles that radiate confidence. Whether you’re here for a routine check-up, fillings, whitening, crowns, veneers, extractions, implants, Invisalign, laser-therapy for periodontal disease and Botox for TMJ discomfort, you’ll experience the perfect harmony of cutting-edge techniques, advanced technology, and compassionate care. PRIMESCAN 90 Digital Impressions

Helps to manage pain and anxiety during dental procedures. We offer nitrous oxide for all our patients dental needs. BOTOX

From managing TMJ disorders and bruxism to enhancing dental aesthetics, Botox offers versatile solutions for improved oral health and overall well-being.

Letter from the Editor

Style shapes the way we live; it’s more than the clothes we wear or the accessories we choose. It’s reflected in the way we decorate our homes, the books and music we love, and even how we move through the world. It’s the thread that weaves together who we are.

What makes personal expression so powerful is that it evolves with us. As we grow, take risks, and lean into what we love, we create something wholly our own. It’s a language without words, connecting us, inspiring us, and sometimes, even defining us.

Here in Gaithersburg, we’re surrounded by opportunities to express ourselves through the boutiques we visit, the creatives we support, and the vibrant energy of our community. This issue celebrates that spirit of originality and confidence.

From Maria Torrez’s inspiring journey at Marian Style—where Salvadoran heritage meets modern elegance, to the exquisite details in silk and lace, we’re spotlighting the people and pieces that bring beauty to life. Our “Velvet Reign” feature leans into the season’s most luxurious textures, while our skincare experts remind us that beauty begins with care. And yes—even Corvettes have their place in the conversation, because great design transcends categories.

This month, I hope you’re reminded that the most powerful form of expression is the one that’s authentically yours. Whether you’re blending classic looks or breaking new ground, may this issue inspire you to show up boldly.

Here’s to being unapologetically and uniquely you.

Cheers,

ANICIA JUAREZ, EDITOR @GAITHERSBURGCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2025

PUBLISHER

Adam Taylor | adam.taylor@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Anicia Juarez | anicia.juarez@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

KC Cole | kc.cole@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

David Robert Lambert, Mindy Toran, Elle Carrington

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Proverbs 3:5-6

Timeless Brilliance in Fine Jewelry

Allure Jewelers, proudly serving Gaithersburg since 1986, offers GIAcertified diamonds and bespoke fine jewelry. Their expert gemologists and polished showroom experience make Allure a trusted destination for elegant engagement rings and special-occasion treasures. Website: allurejewelers.com

Artists On Market & the Gaithersburg Artist Collective

As the heartbeat of Kentlands’ art scene, Artists On Market & the Gaithersburg Artist Collective hosts rotating exhibits and interactive workshops by regional artists. Experience their next immersive event, “Introduction to Monoprint with Carol Moore,” August 16. Website:kentlands.org/ kentlands-artist-on-market

Tirazheh “T” Mofid –Multidisciplinary Artist & Makeup Artist

Tirazheh “T” Mofid creates bold, style-forward experiences as a multidisciplinary artist and makeup artist. Based in Gaithersburg, she specializes in UV-reactive face painting, immersive installations, murals, and custom commissions—painting everything from shoes to cars. As both an artist and community curator, T infuses every project with innovation and activism, pushing boundaries in both art and design. Instagram: @tmofid_art

Sweets by Caroline evolves from a beloved home bakery into chic

Caroline Ta – Elevating Gaithersburg’s Sweet Scene

Photography by Tirazheh Mofid

Photography by Sweets By Caroline

pop-ups and creative collaborations. Caroline’s thematic dessert bars and curated displays bring sophisticated flair to local events, elevating Gaithersburg’s sweets scene with every confection.

Instagram: @sweetsbycaroline

Samantha Friedman –Signature Luxury Interiors That Tell a Story

Friedman transforms homes with regal, inviting interiors recognized for refined detail and personal style. A multi-year Houzz award winner, Samantha reimagines area spaces with an expert touch, tailoring every project to her client’s narrative.

Website: samanthafriedmaninteriors.com

in the Ultimate Nail Spa Experience

Relax and rejuvenate at Ginger Nail and Spa in Rockville, MD. With 25+ years of experience, we offer expert nail, lash, and facial services in a serene setting—Walk-ins welcome. We pride ourselves on high-quality work, using only the finest polishes and products available. Enjoy a complimentary beer or wine as you relax. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.

LIVING STYLE in

THE INTERSECTION OF FASHION AND HOME

ARTICLE BY TYLER AMADEUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADRIEN KING AND ALEC WALWORTH

INthis unexpected love affair, fashion and interiors are more than just a simple pairing—they are rooted in culture, creativity, and the human desire for self-expression.

As conscious consumers of the 21st century, participating in a retail landscape that is oversaturated and struggling to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the modern customer, our purchasing power should not only respond to a feeling of want but also prioritize items that reflect who we are and who we aspire to be. This is clearly visible through the representation of fashion and interiors.

Although we tend to consider cost-perwear primarily when it comes to clothing, this same principle applies to furniture and the function it brings to the home. Aesthetics and functionality both play a role in this pairing, painting a picture for

the rest of the world of who the wearer is and how they live in their space.

The woman who wears a blazer with sharp shoulders that makes her feel powerful in her everyday life—or the black dress that gives her a necessary boost of confidence—may naturally gravitate toward sleek, modern furniture that feels equally strong and elevates the space where the modern woman thrives.

In the same way, someone who prefers an effortless ensemble—like their favorite white T-shirt and comfortable denim jeans—may also look for home pieces that

are functional and make their guests feel at ease. Even a handmade rug, one that sparks conversation about where it was found and adds a focal point to a room, mirrors how we search our closets for a sweater tied to a cherished memory.

Just as we carefully choose outfits to express ourselves, it’s equally important to ensure that our living spaces are designed with the same intention. More than ever, modern buyers are making purchasing decisions based on personal morals and values, forming a new wave of consumers who seek products that are both high-quality and environmentally or socially conscious, whether for themselves or their homes.

The following imagery affirms that living a timeless lifestyle across all aspects of life is possible through the thoughtful styling of sustainable clothing and vintage furniture. As the modern retail landscape continues to evolve, it’s become increasingly vital to make conscious consumer choices—ones that allow us to express our truest selves through both our wardrobes and the places we call home.

Shoot Credits

ART DIRECTION

Amy Appleton

STYLING

Tyler Amadeus

MODEL

Amy Appleton

Why Choose Us?

Experienced & Caring Educators – Our passionate team supports each child’s unique growth.

Engaging Curriculum – Hands-on activities in literacy, STEM, arts, and social-emotional learning.

Safe & Inclusive Space – A welcoming environment where every child feels valued.

Flexible Programs –

STORIES IN Silk and Lace

FIND YOUR MOMENT IN A GOWN THAT’S AS ORIGINAL AS YOU.

ARTICLE BY ELLE CARRINGTON

The process of finding a wedding dress is not about selecting from countless racks or following current trends; it is a deeply meaningful moment of self-recognition. At Silhouette Bridal & Formal, every gown is carefully chosen with purpose, designed to communicate directly with the woman who wears it, celebrating her form, spirit, and story.

Silhouette Bridal & Formal has spent more than twenty years developing the art of individualized service to provide brides with a sense of being truly understood. From the very first consultation, appointments are intimate and unrushed, unfolding naturally in their warmly lit boutique, an experience often described by brides as transformative and joyfully stress-free.

While bridal fashion is the heart of the boutique, their curated selection extends to high-end evening and prom gowns. Their collections span global designers, offering diverse sizing and inclusive styles, all reflecting a singular philosophy: bridal fashion should empower, never constrain. Their skilled seamstresses meticulously tailor each gown on-site, blending heirloom fabrics, sentimental touches, and modern designs to craft uniquely personal dresses. Every stitch is thoughtful, every detail intentional.

The boutique’s atmosphere is equally intentional, built on creativity and calm assurance. Located in the charming Colonnade at Kentlands, steps from lakeside cafés and scenic tree-lined sidewalks, it feels more like a private studio than a shop. Brides consistently remark on feeling welcomed, understood, and effortlessly guided toward a gown that feels right.

At Silhouette Bridal, the experience goes beyond selecting a dress; it's about discovering the piece that already knows you. Schedule your pri vate fitting at SilhouetteBridals.com or 240‑324‑2000.

style MARIAN

ARTICLE BY MINDY TORAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Growing up, Maria Torrez recalls fond memories of helping her mother with sewing and crafts at their home in El Salvador. She was captivated by the world of fashion and beauty and dreamed of designing her own clothes someday. She immigrated to the United States at an early age in 1995 with the hopes of bringing her dreams to reality. Maria received her first break when she came across a designer

Maria Torrez brings runway fashion to Rockville

boutique near her son’s daycare center and went in to see if they needed any help. The owner was very impressed with her and hired her the same day.

“That job sparked my passion for fashion and entrepreneurship and eventually led me to open my own hair salon, followed by a leap into the world of radio broadcasting and media,” says Maria. In 2005, she started Media One Communications, an advertising agency specializing in radio and TV ads for local and national businesses. Seeing a need for more Latino centric business representation and entertainment in the DMV, she launched Radio La Nueva 87.7 FM in 2009, where she served as managing director, focusing on public relations and operations of the business.

During her media career, she helped promote some of the industry’s most prestigious events, including Super Bowl LVI, the Latin Grammys, Billboard Awards, Premio Lo Nuestro, and Premio Juventud.

Maria eventually left broadcasting to pursue her dream of owning her own boutique to offer runway-level fashions for everyday professionals. She opened Marian Style in Rockville in 2021, offering personal styling and shopping services to women looking to find clothes to make them feel beautiful and confident.

Her signature “closet-therapy” sessions help clients find seasonal looks for all occasions, whether it’s casual clothes to wear around the house, outfits for a special occasion, business attire, or accessories to pull an outfit together.

“I try to simplify life for my clients,” says Maria. “We’re able to put together a whole wardrobe of clothes with trendy colors and styles that can get them through the whole year.”

Maria has participated in Fashion Week in Palm Springs, California, and Latin Fashion Week in Washington, D.C., and most recently held her first official fashion show in Tyson’s Corner.

When she’s not busy on the runway or offering styling advice, you can find her mentoring other Latina entrepreneurs and donating unsold pieces to local job-training nonprofits.

“So many women are afraid to start their own businesses because they’re scared things might not work out,” says Maria. “They’re encouraged by my success, and I urge them to pursue their passion. My story is a testament that life is a daily learning process, and with determination and hard work, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our dreams.”

VELVET REIGN

FALL’S MOST LUXURIOUS FASHION TRENDS ARRIVE IN LAYERS, REGAL JEWEL TONES, AND SCULPTURAL JEWELRY.

Fall fashion steps into its most decadent chapter yet. Discover velvet tailoring and gilded accents at Saks Chevy Chase, rich layers at Nordstrom Bethesda, and timeless consignment finds at Chapter Two. From local streets to living rooms, Fall 2025 revels in texture, jewel tones, and baroque drama.

THE SKIN EXPERTS

Gaithersburg’s trusted dermatologists blend science, artistry, and patient-first care

ARTICLE PROVIDED

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CENTER FOR COSMETIC AND CLINICAL DERMATOLOGY

For nearly three decades, The Center for Cosmetic and Clinical Dermatology has served as one of the region’s most trusted and respected practices for medical and aesthetic skin care. Founded in 1996 by Dr. Roni W. Ford, who took over the practice of a retiring local dermatologist, the Center has grown steadily in size, reputation, and services—earning accolades

Doctors and Staff of the Center for Cosmetic and Clinical Dermatology

“We take time to listen, educate, and build lasting relationships with every patient.” – Dr. Roni W. Ford

and the trust of generations of patients throughout Gaithersburg and beyond.

When Dr. Anne E. Rothman joined the team in 2006, the practice expanded both its capacity and capabilities. Today, the Center is led by three board-certified dermatologists—Drs. Ford, Rothman, and Andrea Steel—along with dermatology-trained physician assistants Jennifer Whitman and Abby Orlansky, and licensed aesthetician Linda St. Jean. The team offers a full continuum of care, from early detection and disease management to cosmetic treatments and long-term maintenance.

The Center is recognized not only for its clinical rigor but also for its warm and collaborative approach. Each patient receives highly individualized care designed around their goals, concerns, and lifestyle. This commitment to personalization is what sets the practice apart—and it’s made possible by the

Center’s status as an independent, physician-owned business. Free from the influence of corporate mandates or private equity firms, the team can spend more time with patients, educate them on their options, and build long-term relationships grounded in trust.

The practice is evenly split between medical dermatology and cosmetic dermatology, providing patients with a comprehensive approach to skin health. On the medical side, the Center diagnoses and treats a wide range of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and various forms of skin cancer. Preventive care is prioritized, especially full-body skin exams and annual skin cancer screenings, which can be critical for early detection and treatment.

The cosmetic dermatology arm of the practice focuses on state-of-the-art techniques to address

visible signs of aging, sun damage, scarring, and uneven texture. Popular treatments include Botox®, Dysport®, and a range of dermal fillers to address volume loss and fine lines. Laser services target unwanted hair, visible vessels, and pigmentation, while SkinPen® microneedling enhances skin texture and promotes collagen production. The Genius™ radiofrequency microneedling system—one of the latest technologies on the market—offers a powerful, non-surgical option for improving skin laxity and treating acne scars.

Additional services such as sclerotherapy for leg veins, PRX Derm Perfexion (a non-injectable collagen stimulator ), and an extensive menu of aesthetic treatments including facials, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, brow tinting, and waxing round out the Center’s offerings, providing patients with both medical-grade and spa-like options in one setting.

While their treatments are advanced, the providers at the Center are quick to emphasize that healthy skin starts with knowledge, not trends. In recent years, social media platforms like TikTok have become crowded with skincare influencers, many of whom lack the necessary credentials or clinical understanding to provide safe advice. The team regularly sees patients confused or even harmed by viral skincare hacks that promote questionable techniques, such as slugging, using toothpaste as a spot treatment, and overusing pore strips.

By contrast, the Center’s providers are committed to delivering science-based guidance. With decades of collective experience and continued professional development, they are not only experts in dermatology but also educators at heart, empowering patients with the facts they need to make informed decisions about their skin.

The Center’s reputation reflects this philosophy. Repeatedly recognized by Washingtonian magazine,

"Free from the influence of corporate mandates, our team can spend more time with patients, educate them on their options, and build long-term relationships grounded in trust."

Washington Consumers’ Checkbook, and TopDoctors.com, the practice has become a pillar of the local healthcare community. But recognition aside, it’s the loyalty of their patients and the consistency of their results that speak loudest.

MEET THE PROVIDERS

Dr. Roni W. Ford has been board-certified in dermatology since 1993. A graduate of Georgetown University School of Medicine, she completed her dermatology residency at the University of Maryland and has led the Center with a deep dedication to integrity, precision, and compassionate care for over three decades.

University of Maryland School of Medicine and holds a Master of Public Health from Columbia University. She completed her dermatology training at the University of Maryland and brings a dual lens of public health and personalized care to her practice.

www.cccderm.com

@cosmeticclinicalder

Dr. Anne E. Rothman, board certified since 2006, earned her medical degree from the

Dr. Andrea Steel, board-certified in 2022, is a graduate of the UCLA School of Medicine, where she earned honors for academic excellence. She completed her residency in dermatology at the University of Colorado and brings a fresh, evidence-driven approach to both clinical and cosmetic dermatology. At The Center for Cosmetic and Clinical Dermatology, style begins with skin health, and skin health begins with expert care. Expert care. Personalized results.

Move Better, Hurt Less-On Us

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That’s why, for a limited time, we’re offering a Free Arthritis Initial Consultation-no insurance required.

During your visit, our expert team will:

Review any existing imaging or recommend appropriate diagnostics | Evaluate your condition and explain tailored treatment options

Introduce cutting-edge regenerative medicine therapies and holistic solutions | This no-obligation consultation is your first step toward relief.

Follow-up visits can be billed through your insurance plan if needed. Do not let arthritis pain limit your lifestyle- take advantage of this opportunity today!

www.rosm.org |

maybe it’s someone

John Weaberanddaughter

Kera Weaber Aronson

Corvettes and More Corvettes

1978 Silver Anniversary Corvette for Three Generations

The Washington DC Auto Show is a beloved annual tradition and the largest public event of its kind in the nation's capital, set to commence on Jan 23rd-Feb 6th, 2026. The Corvette Club of America (CCA) is a proud participant.

"It's really special to see six-year-old girls and eight-year-old boys light up," said CCA member Kera Weaber Aronson. "They ask, 'Can I sit in your car?' It's their first Corvette experience."

Founded in 1956, the CCA has over 177 members nationwide, with most in the DC-Maryland-Virginia area. Based in Maryland, the Club holds community events and gatherings, welcoming anyone with a love for Corvettes-no ownership required. The Club is known for its multigenerational appeal, with many couples and families taking part.

One of the CCA's signature events is a visit to a Maryland elder care facility. "Residents see cars they remember from the 1950s and '60s," said Aronson. "It sparks stories and smiles."

A highlight among CCA members is the Weaber family's 1978 Silver Anniversary Corvette. This special edition features unique "fastback" styling and a two-tone silver paint job. Only 15,283 were produced in this color combination, and just 15% were made with a manual transmission.

John Weaber, then a young attorney, bought the car new. Over the decades, it became a treasured part of the family. His daughter, Kera, helped polish it as a child and grew to love it. Kera's daughter, Luciana, wrote heartfelt essays to her grandfather each year asking him to gift the car to her mom.

In 2024, for Mother's Day, Luciana's wish came true. John gave Kera the pristine "Silver Queen" Corvette, now with just 25,254 miles on the odometer.

"She's amazing at driving stick," Luciana wrote. "She will treasure this car and keep it alive."

From auto show floor to family heirloom, the story of this Corvette is one of love, legacy, and generations bonded by a passion for the open road.

“The Corvette Club of America attracts multiple generations of the same family.”

1961 Red and White "C1" Corvette

Corvette Club of America at the DC Auto Show

1976 Kenworth Blue Corvette Stingray "Betsy"

Blue "C2" Corvette Stingray

1978 Silver Anniversary Corvette "Silver Queen"

CCA President Dwight Melvin's "My Therapy"

SEPTEMBER 2025

SEPTEMBER 1ST

Labor Day Parade

Old Town Gaithersburg, 1 South Summit Avenue Gaithersburg, MD 20877 | 10:00 AM

Celebrate the unofficial end of summer at Gaithersburg’s beloved parade featuring marching bands, dance troupes, vintage vehicles, clowns, and more. Enjoy festive entertainment along East Diamond Avenue, plus delicious bites from local food vendors at Olde Towne Plaza and the fire station lot.

Bring the whole family and join the tradition!

SEPTEMBER 14TH

Arts on the Green — Autumn Inspirations

Craft Show

Kentlands Mansion, 320 Kent Square Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878 | 11:00 AM

Celebrate the season at the charming Kentlands Mansion with a curated selection of handmade goods from local artisans. Shop jewelry, home décor, artwork, and seasonal gifts while enjoying the historic setting and meeting the makers. Support small businesses and shop fall favorites!

SEPTEMBER 26TH

DC Fashion Week

The National Housing Center, 1201 15th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005 | 5:00 PM

Experience the excitement of DC Fashion Week, a multi-day celebration of global style and emerging design talent. From high-fashion runway shows to exclusive industry events, this biannual showcase brings together creatives, influencers, and fashion lovers from across the region. Get inspired and immerse yourself in fashion culture!

Adam turned a magazine into community.

City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?