The charming brick buildings, bevy of interesting restaurants, and an already flourishing set of independently owned boutiques make Old Town Alexandria one of our favorite neighborhoods to spend a relaxed afternoon. Been a while since your last visit? Here are three great stores you might not have seen yet.
(PS—We also hear the area’s new Anthropologie is officially open!)
Zoe Boutique
From Issa London’s bold prints and figure-flattering dresses to Chan Luu’s bohemian silk scarves and wrap bracelets, Zoe Boutique is your destination for classic looks with imaginative details. “We spice up the standard Washington wardrobe,” says owner Susan Gerock. The out-of-the-way shop (Zoe is a few blocks off the main King Street drag) is stocked with cool yet not-too-trendy separates that can be worn in a variety of ways, along with basics like Velvet T-shirts and Red Engine jeans. Also good to know: Both Tracy Reese and Rebecca Taylor allow customers to purchase straight-from-the-runway looks through the store. 130 S. Union St.; 571-970-6324.
Bishop Boutique
Bishop Boutique is designed to look like the walk-in closet of your dreams. “And I love when my customers come in and try on the whole store!” says owner Kelly Ferenc, who opened the shop on King Street in September. Specializing in shoes, from practical day-to-day options to that “must-have” pair of heels, Bishop Boutique also stocks a covetable selection of handbags and seasonal accessories. Shop popular brands like Loeffler Randall for local flavor (designer Jessie Randall is a UVA grad), and LK Bennett (Kate Middleton’s fave) for worldly flair. 815-B King St; 571-312-0042.
Beautyfull Boutique
BeautyFull Boutique is the first—and only—plus-size consignment store in the area. Owner Camille Leverett curates looks starting at size 14 regular and going up to 5X. “The best thing is that women can actually come in and try these clothes on,” she says. “Most stores have moved all of their plus sizes online, so it’s impossible to know if the clothes will work for you.” The shop feels more polished boutique than run-of-the-mill consignment store, and Leverett consigns upscale designer brands such as Lafayette 148. She also features a rotating selection of new looks from independent designers, many of which show each year at Full Figured Fashion Week in New York. 118 N. Fayette St.; 703-535-6748.
All photographs courtesy of the stores.
