A Closet Full of Clothes and Not a Thing to Wear?

Awhile ago a dear reader requested that I write some suggestions on where to shop in DC since I so often I suggest where to eat, drink, and be merry.  It seems appropriate to think fashion-minded this week, as “Fashion Week” in NYC approaches us. 

As a female, I have my favorites, however, I had to reach out to some fashionable male friends of mine in order to find out ”What to wear” for the guy’s closet.  Following are some of my suggestions for the ladies.  I will follow up with a post on my boy friends’ ideal places to buy their fashionable outfits.  Note: The Washingtonian has an issue yearly on where to shop as well. And second note: I have a dear friend who is Queen Bee Fashionista, so much so that Gucci, Chloe, Dolce & Gabbana, Pucci, MaxMara, Saks Jandel and Versace have her on speed dial and vice versa.  I unfortunately (boo hoo!), do not fall into that category.  However, the stores on my list I chose because of consistency, price, service, and location.  Enjoy!

White House / Black Market – I love this place for its simplicity and straightforward style of casualwear, cocktail dresses, footwear, and adorable baubles and accessories.  The price tags are extremely affordable and if you are a “frequent flyer” (or buyer as the case may be) you can join The Black Book club and get discounts left and right. The sales are out of this world and I always leave very happy.  Now, as the name of the store suggests, there are lots of black and lots of white apparel, however, they have been known to sneak in a few blue jeans, grays, silvers, golds, and khaki colors to complement the black and white, but I have yet to see red!

South Moon Under – Guys and gals can rack up the credit card bills here.  As most boutiques go, one can find a large number of designers, but with that comes the hefty price tag.  Don’t get sticker shock when you find that adorable simple red dress and the price tag reads a number like $358.  The shoe selection is great and they concentrate heavily on dresses (I almost always get my going out and “fun” dresses here) as well as beach wear (all year long).  The men’s section is super for casual wear and has plenty of Lacoste and Tommy Bahama.  Oh, and if you need to pick up a gift or a unique card, SMU has an excellent section for both and it is typically seasonal.  Worth the trip in. 

All About Jane – Nestled along the up and coming busy Clarendon shopping area, this tiny store has anything and everything you could need that is “boutiquey”.  (I hear they have a store in DC as well!) Plus, they always have awesome deals.  Adorable dresses, skirts, handbags, jewelry, swimsuits, tops (lots of cute tops!) to go with jeans are hard to miss.  The staff is really friendly and helpful too.  I am on their email list so I am always getting a heads up on their sales.  All About Jane is a total neighborhood boutique that is a true destination.

BCBG – I have a way too much BCBG – or do I?  Well, I don’t think I do – I love this place.  Talk about the perfect selection of gorgeous colors, fabrics, furs, leathers, designs, shoes, bags, formalwear – you cannot go wrong.  The sexy music, multiple mirrors and vibe just makes you want to shop and shop til you drop (a hefty load on your credit card).  My favorite store is the one in Georgetown, however I have had great luck in Tysons Galleria as well.

Banana Republic – Ok, I admit it.  I love the BR for suits and more “business-like” apparel, however, they have awesome shoes, jackets, silk scarves, pants, sweaters and button downs.  I have a collection in many colors of their button downs.  And I must say, BR’s clothing is made very well. I have been very impressed with the staying power of every piece I own.  The sales are really great too, so I would advise waiting til a sale hits rather than pay full price, because full price is NOT cheap there, and hey – you go back 3 weeks later and it is 40% off or something like that.  I hate when that happens!  Men’s clothing available as well for when you want to pick up something for your sweetie.  (Wow, my mouth is watering right now.  I need to go shopping!)

Benetton – If you hit the one on the corner of Wisconsin and M Street in Georgetown, you will not leave empty handed.  Each time I walk in, I walk out with something, even if it is just a few of their “pashminas”.  What I love about this house, is that their colors just grab me.  I think they have any color spoken for and in every type of scarf, sweater, suit, pants, coats, what have you.  The price tag is not bad here for what you can get, however, I have seen some pants and sweaters give way after awhile.  Maybe I just wore them way too much.  Then again, I do have this fabulous woolly orange turtleneck sweater that is SO vintage (circa 2002 maybe?) but I cannot get rid of it.  Classic, comfy, and the color is stunning.  If you want to add a dash of brightness to your wardrobe, this is the place to go.  Men’s clothing available as well.

ShoeFly – This sweet little store is smaller than my apartment (if you can believe that) but is stocked full of awesome shoes, boots, handbags, accessories and anything you could imagine.  And trust me, these styles you can’t find too many other places easily.  I have found wonderful clutches and strappy heels.  It is right on Wilson Blvd in the lovely Arlington Courthouse area,  Keep your eyes peeled for it, or else you may drive right by, and that would be just wrong.  

Nicole Miller -I LOVE this place (have I said that already?).  I have purchased almost all of my formal dresses here for years.  (I have given way too many paychecks to Ms. Miller.  I wonder if I can send one of my dresses to my car company as a payment?  hmmm… probably not.)  I even have this silk, satin long pencil skirt with a long slit up the back that goes with EVERYTHING, which I bought about 6 years ago. Every season, Nicole Miller (who started out designing vests and ties!) brings unique beautiful patterns, colors, and silky fabrics with furs, and satin, and intricate designs.  Ok, her collection is worth every penny, especially when you receive the multiple compliments!

As always - the Punch welcomes your ideas and comments (picks and pans) on where to shop in DC!