News & Politics

The Best New Gifts for DC Women

Photograph of glass by Aaron Lindberg; hat by Alan Chan.

Women’s Gifts Under $50

1. Fuchsia Dip-Dye Notecards

Why: An e-mailed thank-you might be simple, but it isn’t proper. Or pretty.

Where: $18 at Fig.2.

2. Habitat by Lauren Liess

Photograph by Jeff Elkins.

Why: This Virginia interior designer’s warm, organic homes have graced the pages of Domino and Washingtonian.

Where: $35 at Amazon.

3. Fur-Pom Key chain

Why: Key chains ought to be playful—and make it easier to spot your keys at the bottom of a dark bag.

Where: $38 at Michael Kors.

4. “Beer Snob” Glass

Photograph by Aaron Lindberg.

Why: Ladies can like a good brew, too, especially if the presentation is nice.

Where: $14 at Red Barn Mercantile in Alexandria.

5. Bobbi Brown “Bellini” Lip and Eye Palette

Why: Because she touches up in the school drop-off line, at the office, and post-drinks.

Where: $32 at Bluemercury.

6. Heidi Klum “Cle D’Amour” Bikini

Why: Because there are only so many flannel nightgowns you can give her.

Where: $30 at Journelle.

Women’s Gifts Under $200

1. “Tilly” Baguette Clutch

Photograph by Jeff Elkins.

Why: Local leather maven Carolyn Misterek has crafted the perfect clutch for evening cocktails.

Where: $110 at Matine.

2. “Kessler” Toque

Photograph by Alan Chan

Why: It’s a stylish gateway to the washable cashmere of Lululemon’s new sister brand.

Where: $98 at Kit and Ace.

3. Design Your Own Pillow

Why: The local design duo Mintwood Home offers custom textiles at a relative steal.

Where: From $100 at Mintwood Home.

4. “Sunshine” Satchel

Why: DC’s purveyor of refined prep, Tuckernuck, offers monogrammed duffels that go from office to overhead bin.

Where: $120 at Tuckernuck.

5. Windowpane Flannel Sleep Set

Why: Because even cozy PJs can look chic for Sunday morning Instagramming.

Where: $95 at J. Crew.

6. Appointed “Desk Essentials” Set

Why: With a sleek calendar, two notebooks, and sticky notes, it’s the definition of #deskporn.

Where: $75 at Appointed.

Women’s Gifts Over $200

1. Palm Candle holders

Why: She’ll enjoy a golden glimpse of the tropics—even while it snows.

Where: $1,075 at Bloomingdale’s in Chevy Chase.

2. Floral Embellished Clutch

Why: Because over-the-top sparkle is practically a holiday- season requirement.

Where: $495 at Tory Burch.

3. “Daylina” Skirt

Why: Because she has enough black pencil skirts.

Where: $995 at Club Monaco.

4. “Mid-century” Bar Cart

Why: Because after a long day at the office, she deserves to mix a mean martini in style.

Where: $349 at West Elm.

5. Amazonite Earring

Why: This Maryland jeweler turns out bold earrings that add polish to any outfit.

Where: $250 at Rachel Mulherin.

6. Double-Face Scarf

Why: Elegant, soft, and timeless. Pretty much the perfect gift for any woman.

Where: $255 at Rag & Bone in Georgetown.

Sarah is the Editor-in-Chief of Washingtonian Bride & Groom, and writes about weddings, fashion, and shopping. Her work has also appeared in Refinery29, Bethesda Magazine, and Washington City Paper, among others. She is a Georgetown University graduate, lives in Columbia Heights, and you can find her on Instagram at @washbridegroom and @sarahzlot.

Associate Editor

Caroline Cunningham joined Washingtonian in 2014 after moving to the DC area from Cincinnati, where she interned and freelanced for Cincinnati Magazine and worked in content marketing. She currently resides in College Park.

Design & Style Editor

Hillary writes about interiors, real estate, arts, and culture. She is the former digital media editor of The New Republic, and her work has also been published in Glamour, The New York Times Book Review, and The Washington Post, among others. You can follow her on Instagram @hillarylouisekelly or on Pinterest @hlkelly.