By Elizabeth Hughes
Whether you’re looking to class up your wardrobe or to find that perfect gift, Old Town boutiques don’t disappoint. They cater to discerning locals and visitors, offering premium goods that you may not find anywhere else.
So, with the annual Sidewalk Sale returning this month, OTC sent me out to spotlight places to shop local and the tastemakers that run them.
3 SISTERS
213 King Street
This King Street destination is a woman and family-owned business operated by siblings Stella, Athina, and Stavroulla, who say that they were inspired by their refugee mother, Andrea.
The boutique showcases feminine apparel like maxi-dresses and tops. Accessories are accessible with the boutique’s Milan Luxe sunglasses priced at $16. (I bought a pair while researching this story. I couldn’t help myself.)
The team at 3 Sisters shared with me that they often extend Sidewalk Sale discount pricing into Sunday, so mark your calendars.
DASH’S OF OLD TOWN
1114 King Street
If you’re seeking sartorial armor, consider a visit to Dash’s of Old Town.
Featuring finely-tailored men’s suits and other menswear imported from Italy or custom made, Dash’s sets itself apart from department stores.
Focused on individualized attention, the boutique offers in-person meetings and wardrobe consultancy by appointment only.
Proprietor Victor Dash confirms that he works closely with Pentagon officials, lobbyists, and other DMV luminaries to tailor looks based on ensemble sets. These pieces seamlessly go from being camera-ready for a press conference in the morning to casually-cool for a clambake in the evening.
At deadline, Mr. Dash and his team say that they are looking into a having a presence at The Sidewalk Sale.
ENCORE CONSIGNMENT
119 S. Fairfax Street
If you’re on the hunt for haute brands like Chanel, Ferragamo, and Hermes without the haute price tags, Encore Consignment is a must-see. Proprietor Jen Valentine oversees a store with an ever-changing inventory of purses, shoes, skirts, blouses, and other luxury items.
For the Sidewalk Sale, go for discounts between 30-50 percent off original pricing.
If you want to consign, be advised that Encore only accepts current, in-season apparel that is new or “like-new,” laundered or dry cleaned. Ms. Valentine adds that she is particularly interested in handbags and other fashions from Loewe. She mentions that the Madrid-based luxury brand is “…having a moment.”
ERA
109 N. Fairfax Street
Since its June 2024 opening, ERA has showcased flirty, high-end women’s apparel. Mini-dresses, summer denims, and accessories like gold aviator sunglasses will greet you when you walk into the elegant N. Fairfax Street store. ERA’s Hattie Dove says her team is planning to set up a tent for the Sidewalk Sale with discounts as high as 50-80 percent off.
Regarding year-round business in Old Town, Ms. Dove says, “We have really amazing, loyal customers who visit here multiple times a week.”
FRANCES VALENTINE
924 King Street
With a flagship store in New York, Frances Valentine opened in Old Town in 2023.
Store Manager Faith Bisbee says community response has been overwhelmingly-receptive. Customers range from young people to mature adults who love fashion and beautiful apparel.
Ms. Bisbee adds that Alexandria’s hub is an ideal market, adding, “The camaraderie between all of the boutique owners/managers makes doing business in Old Town very special.”
Frances Valentine was founded in 2016 by Kate Spade and her close friend-turned-company CEO Elyce Arons who keeps Ms. Spade’s memory present in the running of the operation to this day – offering joy-inspiring, colorful designs.
GOSSYPIA
325 Cameron Street
Gossypia (the Spanish word for “cotton”) is a fixture in Old Town.
Operated by longtime Alexandria resident and former U.N. employee Amanda Lasker, the boutique focuses on apparel made exclusively of natural fibers with a Latin influence. The longtime businesswoman with over a half-century in this market adds that she was influenced by her time living in Mexico and Guatemala.
Now, she continues to help Old Town thrive, saying the city has “…changed a lot,” but still fosters community spirit.
If you go, expect 40-percent off the entire first floor inventory on Sidewalk Sale day.
THE LUCKY KNOT
101 King Street
This boutique, situated steps from the Waterfront, features women’s clothing and accessories. It also features an adjacent section dedicated to menswear.
If you go, expect “vacay mode” items such as swimsuits, statement jewelry, and chic clutches perfect for your next pool party. (I bought a gold Jen & Co. clutch there and absolutely treasure it!)
Other featured brands include Capri Blue, Lilly Pulitzer, and super-hip men’s hygiene products from Duke Cannon.
Established in 2012, look for The Lucky Knot team to be taking over the Sidewalk again this August.
THE SHOE HIVE/THE HIVE
315 Cameron Street
Up-and-coming style maven Elizabeth Todd presides over this shoe store and The Hive. For the latter, Ms. Todd curates everything from luxe women’s clothing to gifts that are sure to impress. For the former, stay on your toes as you peruse designers the likes of Freda Salvador.
The Shoe Hive/The Hive team tells me they’ll be back again at the Sidewalk Sale.
TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES
915 King Street
Ten Thousand Villages is a nonprofit, local shop that sells sustainably-sourced goods from villages in over 30 countries.
Affordable and intriguing, pieces include home décor items, organic clothing and jewelry, and specialty foods and beverages to soothe your soul. Managing Director Kate McMahon says, “(Your) purchase and donation directly impacts its maker, breaking the cycle of generational poverty and igniting social change.”
Ten Thousand Villages will participate in the Sale, but the discounted pricing will not impact artisans Worldwide who are paid in full for their craftsmanship.
Let’s not forget that the added value of shopping in Old Town is proximity to restaurants where you can wind down with a delightful meal or a glass of wine. Take advantage of the City’s free trolley or stroll brick streets with ease. Enjoy shopping around this August and all year-round. I know that I did!
About the Author: Elizabeth Hughes is a former entertainment journalist who has covered The Academy Awards, reality television, and breaking news. She has interviewed movie stars, rock stars, and authors. Her work in print dates back over 20 years with bylines and editing in national, regional, and community publications. These days, Ms. Hughes lives happily in Old Town with her boyfriend.
Note from the Publisher: Keep in mind this is just a sampling of the boutiques that dot the landscape on King Street and Old Town proper. There are over 30 stores participating in the Sidewalk Sale this year.