Intermix
Intermix’s designer selection may feel edgy and luxe—because it
is. This is the store for something fierce and high-fashion, including
Helmut Lang and Diane von Furstenberg. If those labels aren’t for you,
you’ll find more comfortable staples from Rag & Bone and J Brand. 3300
M St., NW; 202-298-8080.
Denim Bar
As the name suggests, this clubby Pentagon City boutique is all
about jeans. You’ll find women’s and men’s options by such designers as
Fidelity Denim, Habitual, and James Jeans as well as more standard fare
from AG Adriano Goldschmied, Paige, and Joe’s Jeans. The store offers
original hemming for $23. 1101 S. Joyce St., Arlington;
703-414-8202.
Rag & Bone
We liked Rag & Bone jeans the minute we tried on the
super-soft, perfectly proportioned styles. The mildly distressed Warren
comes in a cool dark-blue rinse, while the Wembly “boyfriend” is a faded,
vintage true blue. We’re partial to the Rally for its side zipper pockets
and modern leg seams—a hot-off-the-runway feel. 3067 M St., NW;
202-295-9072.
7 for All Mankind
Looking for a brand with a lot of fit options? Dozens of styles
line the shelves here, and the display of different washes makes things
easy to find. Whether you’re thinking jegging (don’t, please) or boot-leg
(great choice), 7s are for those who take a one-of-each approach to trendy
cuts and rinses. Tysons Galleria; 703-734-1730.
Massimo Dutti
For a dressier look, we love this new American spinoff of the
fabled European brand (and the higher-end complement to sister chain
Zara). Prices are approachable—a dark-blue crop comes in under $70, while
a casual-Friday-friendly boot-leg trouser is $89.50—and the styles have an
effortless chic. 1220 Wisconsin Ave., NW; 202-944-8780.
Madewell
A hot spot for casual but hip looks, Madewell recently upgraded
its denim fit and fabric. The Skinny Skinny High Riser’s raised waistband
makes legs look lean; the Legging Jean is tight but not unbearably so.
Embrace the denim-on-denim look popular for spring by pairing jeans with a
Madewell chambray shirt. Georgetown, Bethesda, McLean;
madewell.com.
Luna
This boutique stocks shelf after shelf with impressive labels
such as DL1961, Citizens of Humanity, J Brand, Genetic Denim, AG Adriano
Goldschmied, Mother, Hudson, Joe’s Jeans, and 7 for All Mankind. Here’s
the spot for those dark-washed, boot-cut, low-rise “going out” jeans
you’ve been searching for. 7232 Woodmont Ave., Bethesda;
301-656-1111.
H&M
Want to try that new denim trend but worried it will be out of
vogue next season? You can get a bargain on cutting-edge European styles
here. During a recent visit, we found a super-skinny look in several
washes for $29.95. Colored denim rang up at $19.95, and a baggy boyfriend
was $39.95. Multiple area locations; hm.com.
Zoe Boutique
This quaint Old Town shop is the brainchild of Susan Lilly
Gerock, who fills her racks with accessible, American-made labels.
Although sometimes light on denim options, the inventory she does carry is
nicely curated and includes sought-after brands such as Red Engine and
Mother. 130 S. Union St., Alexandria; 571-970-6324.
Read our complete guide to jeans, Denim: The Perfect Fit.
