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Shopping by Neighborhood

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White House Area and Foggy Bottom

In an area best known for the nation’s most famous citizen, museums and the home of George Washington University are fun places to shop for official White House Christmas ornaments and Easter eggs, flags from all over the world, crafts made by living Native American artists and artisans, and even jewelry made from real government red tape. If you’re looking for a tasty treat, two farmers’ markets sell produce that’s said to be as fresh as food grown in the White House garden. For an out-of-the-world treat, pick up a pack of astronaut ice cream at the National Air and Space Museum.

Crafts and Gifts

InfoShop.
You won’t find the New York Times bestsellers here, but you will find titles on world development issues, poverty, and other weighty issues along with fiction by writers from Africa, Central and South America, and Asia that are hard to find elsewhere. Lining the windows of this bookstore, stocked and run by the World Bank, are desk flags of countries from all over the world that sell for $5 each. Students, teachers, and government employees with IDs receive discounts. | 701 18th St. NW, White House Area | 20433 | 202/458–4500 | www.worldbank.org/infoshop | Weekdays 9:30–5:30 | Closed weekends | Station: Farragut North, Farragut West.

Museum Shop at Decatur House.
Beyond the Web, there are only three places in D.C. to purchase official merchandise from the White House Historical Association: the temporary White House Visitor Center on the Ellipse, the Decatur House, and a small shop around the corner (740 Jackson Place NW). Decatur offers the greatest variety. From the popular Christmas ornaments to jewelry, ties, scarves, and accessories, the merchandise is well made. Ten dollars or less will get you cocktail napkins, bookmarks, or a wooden Easter egg. The more expensive merchandise includes silk scarves, hand-painted enamel boxes, and jewelry with cameos of the White House. But the charming staff offers fun facts about the White House for free. | 1610 H St. NW, White House Area | 20006 | 202/218–4338 | www.whitehousehistory.org/decatur-house/ | Weekdays 9–4 | Closed weekends.

National Air and Space Museum Store.
Of course, one of the most visited museums in the world has a huge gift shop! The lower level of the three-floor, 12,000-square-foot store has a small clearance section, tons of toys and games, and glow-in-the-dark jewelry and nail polish. The upper level showcases higher quality goods that will appeal to more serious aviation fans, such as hardcover books and authentic flight jackets. Most merchandise is on the middle level. Space pens that work upside down and freeze-dried “astronaut” ice cream are best sellers. TIP If the main store is too crowded, you can pick up the most popular inexpensive items at small retail outlets on the first and second floors of the museum. | Independence Ave. and 6th St. SW, The Mall | 20560 | 202/633–4510.

National Archives Store.
In a town full of museum shops, the National Archives Store stands out, with bespoke merchandise that’s only available here. Authentic-looking copies of the Constitution and other historical documents are printed in Pennsylvania and replicas of stationery used in the Civil War come from Maine. The popular “red tape” jewelry is crafted by an Archives employee who works in the building and uses real red tape that bound Government documents: hence the phrase “cut through the red tape.” Other popular products feature Rosie the Riveter, Nixon meeting Elvis, and a vitamin doughnut. A 2012 expansion makes room for interactive games associated with special exhibits. When there’s a line outside for admission to the Archives, store employees roll out a cart with cold water and cool merchandise. | Constitution Ave. between 7th and 9th Sts., The Mall | 20408 | 202/357–5271 | www.archives.gov | Station: Archives/Navy Memorial.

Markets

FRESHFARM Market.
Pick up a crab cake, an empanada, or a Mexican-style ice pop at this farmers’ market on Wednesdays from 3 to 7, early April through November. Or pick up similar fare near Lafayette Park (810 Vermont Ave., NW) on Fridays from 11 to 2:30, May through October. Of course, both locations (and FRESHFARM markets in Dupont Circle on Sundays, H Street, NE, on Saturday mornings, and Penn Quarter on Thursday afternoons) sell local, organic fruits and vegetables. | Foggy Bottom, I St., between New Hampshire and 24th St. NW, White House Area | 202/362–8889 | www.freshfarmmarkets.org.

USDA Farmers’ Market.
Blueberry popcorn anyone? On Friday from early June until mid-November from 10 to 2, pick up fresh fruits, vegetables, breads, baked goods, and flavored popcorn across from the Smithsonian Metro station. Appropriately, the market is in the parking lot of the U.S. Department of Agriculture building. | 12th St. and Independence Ave. SW, White House Area | www.ams.usda.gov | Early June–mid–Nov., Fri. 10–2.

Capitol Hill and Northeast D.C.

Capitol Hill is a shopper’s dream as Eastern Market and the unique shops and boutiques clustered around the historic redbrick building offer hours of browsing fun. Inside Eastern Market are produce and meat counters, plus the Market Five art gallery. TIP The flea market, held on weekends outdoors, presents nostalgia and local crafts by the crateful. There’s also a farmers’ market on Saturday. Along 7th Street you can find a number of small shops selling such specialties as art books, handwoven rugs, and antiques. Cross Pennsylvania Avenue and head south on 8th Street for historic Barracks Row. Shops, bars, and restaurants inhabit the charming row houses leading toward the Anacostia River. The other shopping lure on the Hill is Union Station, D.C.’s gorgeous train station. Beautifully restored, it now houses both mall shops and Amtrak and commuter trains.

Keep in mind that Union Station and Eastern Market are on opposite sides of the Hill. The Eastern Market Metro stop is the midpoint between the Eastern Market strip and Barracks Row; Union Station is several blocks away. You can certainly walk to Union Station from the Eastern Market stop, but it might be taxing after the time already spent on your feet in the shops.

Quick Bites: The Market Lunch. Locals line up for fried fish and crab-cake sandwiches at this greasy grill next to the fish counter in Eastern Market’s food bazaar. Try their specialty, blueberry pancakes, on Saturdays from 8 to noon. | Eastern Market, 225 7th St. SE, north corner of market, Capitol Hill | 20003 | 202/547–8444 | Closed Mon. | Station: Eastern Market.

Shopping Mall

Union Station.
Resplendent with marble floors and vaulted ceilings, Union Station is a shopping mall as well as a train station. Upscale retailers include such familiar chains as L’Occitane, White House/Black Market, and Godiva, as well as a bookstore, restaurants, and a food court. The east hall is filled with vendors of expensive domestic and international wares who sell from open stalls. Making History sells a more eclectic selection of souvenirs than you’ll find in most gift shops. The Christmas season brings lights, a train display, and seasonal gift shops to Union Station. | 50 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Capitol Hill | 20002 | 202/289–1908 | www.unionstationdc.com | Station: Union Station.

Books

Capitol Hill Books.
Pop into this three-story maze of used books to browse through a wonderful collection of out-of-print history books, political and fiction writings, and mysteries. | 657 C St. SE, Capitol Hill | 20003 | 202/544–1621 | www.capitolhillbooks-dc.com | Station: Eastern Market.

Fairy Godmother.
This specialty store, which opened in 1984, features books for children, from infants through teens, in English, Spanish, and French. It also sells puppets, toys, craft sets, and CDs. | 319 7th St. SE, Capitol Hill | 20003 | 202/547–5474 | Station: Eastern Market.

Five Great Shopping Experiences

Eastern Market, Capitol Hill Area: Artists, musicians, farmers, and more make this beautifully restored market a feast for the senses. Most vendors accept only cash, but ATMs are nearby.

Kramerbooks & Afterwords, Dupont Circle: Meeting up at Kramerbooks for a lazy Sunday afternoon of brunch and shopping is a quintessential D.C. experience.

Miss Pixie’s Furnishings and Whatnot, U Street Corridor: The outside of the store may be bright pink, but everything inside is “green.” Buyers flock to Miss Pixie’s for vintage furniture, home goods, and clothes.

National Archives Store, The Mall: The building where you can see the Declaration of Independence is also home to a store full of all-American gifts, including jewelry made out of real “red tape.”

Tiny Jewel Box, Downtown: Since 1930, one family has owned and run this gem of a shop. On the day that her husband was inaugurated, First Lady Michelle Obama presented former First Lady Laura Bush with a custom-made leather bound journal and silver pen from this shop.

Children’s Clothing

Dawn Price Baby.
The infant and toddler clothing at this friendly row-house boutique has been carefully selected with an eye for super-comfortable fabrics and distinct designs. The shop also stocks toys, gifts, strollers, and bibs for baby Democrats and Republicans. There’s a second location in Georgetown. | 325 7th St. SE, Capitol Hill | 20003 | 202/543–2920 | www.dawnpricebaby.com | Closed Mon. | Station: Eastern Market.

Crafts and Gifts

Woven History/Silk Road.
Landmarks in this bohemian neighborhood, these connected stores sell handmade treasures from small villages around the world. Silk Road sells home furnishings, gifts, clothing, rugs, and accessories made in Asian mountain communities. Woven History’s rugs are made the old-fashioned way, with vegetable dyes and hand-spun wool. | 311–315 7th St. SE, Capitol Hill | 20003 | 202/543–1705 | www.wovenhistory.com | Closed Mon. | Station: Eastern Market.

Market

Fodor’s Choice | Eastern Market.
Vibrantly colored produce and flowers; freshly caught fish; fragrant cheeses; and tempting sweets are sold by independent vendors at Eastern Market, which first opened its doors in 1873. On weekends a flea market and an arts-and-crafts market add to the fun. After the redbrick building was gutted by fire in 2007, a $22-million reconstruction project restored it to its original Victorian grandeur. Now it is a vibrant and lively gathering place, complete with entertainment, art showings, and a pottery studio. | 7th St. and North Carolina Ave. SE, Capitol Hill | 20003 | www.easternmarket-dc.com | Closed Mon. | Station: Eastern Market.

Women’s Clothing

Forecast.
If you like classic, contemporary styles, Forecast should be in your future. It sells silk and wool-blend sweaters in solid, muted tones for women seeking elegant but practical clothing from brands like Yansi Fugel and Eileen Fisher. The housewares and gifts selection on the first floor is colorful and of high quality. | 218 7th St. SE, Capitol Hill | 20003 | 202/547–7337 | Closed Mon. | Station: Eastern Market.

Downtown

Downtown D.C. is spread out and sprinkled with federal buildings and museums. Shopping options run the gamut from the Gallery Place shopping center to small art galleries and bookstores. Gallery Place houses familiar chain stores like Urban Outfitters, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Ann Taylor Loft, and Aveda; it also has a movie theater and a bowling alley. Other big names in the Downtown area include Macy’s and chain stores like H&M and Banana Republic. With its many offices, Downtown tends to shut down at 5 pm sharp, with the exception of the department stores and larger chain stores. A jolly happy-hour crowd springs up after working hours and families and fans fill the streets during weekend sporting events. The revitalized Penn Quarter has some of the best restaurants in town peppered among its galleries and specialty stores.

The worthwhile shops are not concentrated in one area, however. The Gallery Place Metro stop provides the most central starting point—you can walk south to the galleries and design shops, or west toward Metro Center and Farragut North, though this trek is only for the ambitious. Although Gallery Place is a nightlife hot spot, Metro Center and the Farragut area are largely silent after working hours.

D.C.’s Museum Shops

Would someone in your life love a replica of the Hope diamond? It’s waiting for you at the gift shop in the National Museum of Natural History. With a wide range of merchandise and price points, from inexpensive postcards to pricey pottery, museum gift shops allow you the flexibility to bring home a small memento of your visit to the nation’s capital or to invest in a piece of American art or history. Museum gift shops offer everything from period jewelry reproductions to science kits for kids, not to mention prints and postcards of the masterpiece paintings in the permanent collections. Prices are no higher than you’d find in comparable stores. Another bonus: You won’t pay tax on anything purchased in a Smithsonian museum.

Crafts and Gifts

Fodor’s Choice | Fahrney’s.
What began in 1929 as a repair shop and a pen bar—a place to fill your fountain pen before setting out for work—is now a wonderland for anyone who loves a good writing instrument. You’ll find pens in silver, gold, and lacquer by the world’s leading manufacturers. | 1317 F St. NW, Downtown | 20004 | 202/628–9525 | www.fahrneyspens.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Metro Center.

Indian Craft Shop.
Jewelry, pottery, sand paintings, weavings, and baskets from more than 45 Native American tribes, including Navajo, Pueblo, Zuni, Cherokee, Lakota, and Seminole, are at your fingertips here—as long as you have a photo ID to enter the federal building. Items range from inexpensive jewelry (as little as $5) on up to collector-quality art pieces (more than $1,000). This shop has been open since 1938. | U.S. Department of the Interior, 1849 C St. NW, Room 1023, Downtown | 20240 | 202/208–4056 | www.indiancraftshop.com | Closed weekends, except 3rd Sat. of each month | Station: Farragut West or Farragut North.

Food and Wine

Fodor’s Choice | Cowgirl Creamery.
A California original, this self-titled “cheese shop” has an educated staff that can help you find the perfect block (through many taste tests) as well as a matching wine or olive spread. Their artisan cheeses hail from the Bay area, from local cheese makers, and from points beyond. On Thursday, from 5 to 7 pm, a cheesemonger slices and pours at informal cheese and beer tastings; on Friday from 5 to 7 pm, the pairings continue, with wine rather than beer. | 919 F St. NW, Downtown | 20004 | 202/393–6880 | www.cowgirlcreamery.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Gallery Pl.

Jewelry

Fodor’s Choice | Tiny Jewel Box.
Despite its name, this venerable D.C. favorite contains six floors of precious and semiprecious wares, including unique gifts, home accessories, vintage pieces, and works by well-known designers, including David Yurman, Penny Preville, and Alex Sepkus. The Federal Collection on the sixth floor features handmade boxes and paperweights with decoupages of vintage prints of Washington commissioned by the Tiny Jewel Box. In 2011, InStore Magazine named this family-run store “America’s Coolest Jewelry Store.” | 1147 Connecticut Ave. NW, Downtown | 20036 | 202/393–2747 | www.tinyjewelbox.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Farragut North.

Spas and Beauty Salons

Andre Chreky.
Housed in an elegantly renovated Victorian town house, this salon offers complete services—hair, nails, facials, waxing, and makeup. And because it’s a favorite of the Washington elite, you might just overhear a tidbit or two on who’s going to what black-tie function with whom. Adjacent whirlpool pedicure chairs allow two friends to get pampered simultaneously. | 1604 K St. NW, Downtown | 20006 | 202/293–9393 | www.andrechreky.com | Station: Farragut North.

The Grooming Lounge.
Most spas are geared to women, but guys are pampered here. You can find old-fashioned hot-lather shaves, haircuts, and business manicures and pedicures—everything a man needs to look terrific. The hair- and skin-care products—from Clarins, Billy Jealousy, and Malin and Goetz, to name just a few—are worth a visit even if you don’t have time for a service. | 1745 L St. NW, Downtown | 20036 | 202/466–8900 | www.groominglounge.com | Station: Farragut North.

Women’s Clothing

Coup de Foudre.
All the upscale lingerie in this inviting, elegant boutique hails from France. Coup de Foudre—which translates to “love at first sight”—specializes in friendly, personalized bra fittings. | 1008 E St. NW, Downtown | 20004 | 202/393–0878 | www.coupdefoudrelingerie.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Metro Center.

Rizik Bros.
This tony, patrician Washington institution offers designer women’s clothing and expert advice. The sales staff will help find just the right style from the store’s inventory, which is particularly strong in formal dresses. Take the elevator up from the northwest corner of Connecticut Avenue and L Street. | 1100 Connecticut Ave. NW, Downtown | 20036 | 202/223–4050 | www.riziks.com | Station: Farragut North.

Georgetown

Although Georgetown is not on a Metro line and street parking is nonexistent, people still flock here to shop. This is also the capital’s center for famous residents, as well as being a hot spot for restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

National chains and designer shops now stand side by side with the specialty shops that first gave the district its allure, but the historic neighborhood is still charming and its street scene lively. Most stores lie east and west on M Street and to the north on Wisconsin Avenue. The intersection of M and Wisconsin is the nexus for chain stores and big-name designer shops. The farther you venture in any direction from this intersection, the more eclectic and interesting the shops become. Some of the big-name stores are worth a look for their architecture alone; several shops blend traditional Georgetown town-house exteriors with airy modern showroom interiors.

Shopping in Georgetown can be expensive, but you don’t have to add expensive parking lot fees to your total bill. TIP The D.C. Circulator is your best bet for getting into and out of Georgetown, especially if it’s hot or if you are laden down with many purchases. This $1 bus runs along M Street and up Wisconsin, passing the major shopping strips. The nearest Metro, Foggy Bottom/GWU, is a 10- to 15-minute walk from the shops.

Quick Bites: DolceZZa. The handmade gelato and sorbet at this all-white storefront are divine, especially during the heat of summer. The flavors, such as Valrhona chocolate amargo, are endlessly inventive. Strawberry-, peach-, apple-, and clementine-flavored sorbets are available seasonally. Espresso and churros will warm winter afternoons. | 1560 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/333–4646 | www.dolcezzagelato.com.

Antiques and Collectibles

Cherub Antiques Gallery & Michael Getz Antiques.
Two dealers have shared this Victorian row house since 1983. Michael Getz Antiques carries fireplace equipment and silver. Cherub Antiques Gallery specializes in art nouveau and art deco. A glass case by the door holds a collection of more than 100 cocktail shakers, including Prohibition-era pieces disguised as penguins, roosters, and dumbbells. | 2918 M St. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/337–2224 Cherub Gallery, 202/338–3811 Michael Getz Antiques | www.trocadero.com/cherubgallery | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU.

Fodor’s Choice | Jean Pierre Antiques.
Very Georgetown, but fairly close to Dupont Circle, this gorgeous shop sells antique furniture and gifts from France, Germany, Sweden, and Italy. In 2011, the charming owner added vintage American Lucite tables to his inventory. | 2601 and 2603 P St. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/337–1731 | www.jeanpierreantiques.com | Station: Dupont Circle.

Marston Luce.
House and garden accessories are in the mix here, but the emphasis is on 18th- and 19th-century French country furniture discovered by the owner on yearly buying trips in Europe. They also carry Scandinavian painted furniture. | 1651 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/333–6800 | www.marstonluce.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU.

Miller & Arney Antiques.
English, American, and European furniture and accessories from the 17th, 18th, and early 19th centuries make Miller & Arney Antiques look like a museum gallery. Asian porcelain adds splashes of color. | 1737 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/338–2369 | www.millerarney.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU.

Opportunity Shop of the Christ Child Society.
This Georgetown landmark, staffed by volunteers, sells fine jewelry, antiques, crystal, silver, and porcelain on consignment. Prices are moderate, and profits go to a good cause—the Christ Child Society, which provides for the needs of local children and young mothers. | 1427 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/333–6635 | www.christchilddc.org | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU.

Art Galleries

Many of Georgetown’s galleries are on side streets. Their holdings are primarily work by established artists.

Addison Ripley.
This well-respected gallery exhibits contemporary work by national and local artists, including painters Manon Cleary and Wolf Kahn and photographer Frank Hallam Day. | 1670 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/338–5180 | www.addisonripleyfineart.com | Closed Sun. and Mon. | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU.

Appalachian Spring.
The glossy wooden jewelry boxes displayed here are treasures in their own right. Traditional and contemporary American-made crafts—including art glass, pottery, jewelry, homewares, and toys—fill this lovely shop. There’s also an outpost in Union Station’s East Hall. | 1415 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/337–5780 | www.appalachianspring.com.

Galleries 1054.
Several distinct galleries live under one roof at this location. | 1054 31st St. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | Closed Sun. and Mon. | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU.

Parish. Parish features contemporary work in all mediums by primarily African-American artists. | 202/944–2310 | www.parishgallery.com.

Alla Rogers. Alla Rogers has contemporary Eastern European, Russian, and American art and photography. | 202/333–8595.

Winter Palace Studio. This gallery features contemporary realism oil paintings by Russian painter Natasha Mokina and other artists, including her students. | Georgetown | 301/263–0000 | www.winterpalacestudio.com.

Books

Children’s Clothing

Magic Wardrobe.
This shop caters to kids (and parents) who prefer and can afford preppy clothes reminiscent of school uniforms—think collared shirts and jumpers for girls and cargo pants and button-down shirts for boys. Both American and European designers are on hand, plus clothes from the shop’s own private label for kids from newborn to size 16. The shop also carries shoes. | 1661 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/333–0353 | www.themagicwardrobe.com.

Tugoo Toys and Yiro.
One hundred percent organic, Yiro clothing (newborn to 10 years) is produced without chemicals and is colored only with natural dyes (and yes, the outfits are soft and attractive). A baby registry will help you pick the perfect eco-friendly outfit or toy for the environmentally conscious mom. | 1319 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/333–0032 | www.yirostores.com.

Home Furnishings

Fodor’s Choice | A Mano.
The store’s name is Italian for “by hand,” and it lives up to its name, stocking colorful hand-painted ceramics, hand-dyed tablecloths, blown-glass stemware, and other home and garden accessories by Italian and French artisans. There are even adorable kids’ gifts. Items are now also available in their online catalog. | 1677 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/298–7200 | www.amano.bz.

Theodore’s.
A Washington institution, Theodore’s is the place to visit for ultramod housewares, from stylish furniture to accessories, leather, rugs, and upholstery that make a statement. There’s an excellent selection of wall-storage units for almost all tastes. | 2233 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/333–2300 | www.theodores.com.

Men’s and Women’s Clothing

Hu’s Wear.
Ladies looking for just –off-the-runway looks to go with their Hu’s Shoes will find designs by Sonia Rykiel, Alexander McQueen, and Proenza Schouler. | 2906 M St. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/342–2020 | www.husonline.com.

relish.
In fashionable Cady’s Alley, this dramatic space holds a women’s collection handpicked seasonally by the owner. Modern, elegant, and practical selections include European classics and well-tailored modern designers, such as Jill Sander, Marni, and Dries Van Noten. | 3312 Cady’s Alley NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/333–5343 | www.relishdc.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU.

Shoes

Fodor’s Choice | Hu’s Shoes.
This cutting-edge shoe store would shine in Paris, Tokyo, or New York. Luckily for us, it brings ballet flats, heels, and boots from designers like Chloé, Givenchy, Céline, Proenza Schouler, and Sonia Rykiel right here to Georgetown. | 3005 M St. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/342–0202 | www.husonline.com | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU.

Sassanova.
There are high-end shoes in this girly shop for every occasion—be it a walk on the beach or through a boardroom. Brands carried include the latest from Kate Spade and Sigerson Morrison. Jewelry, bags, and even a selection of upscale casual clothing round out the selection. | 1641 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/471–4400 | www.sassanova.com.

Spas and Beauty Salons

Fodor’s Choice | Blue Mercury.
Hard-to-find skin-care lines—such as Laura Mercier and Trish McEvoy—are what set this homegrown, now national, chain apart. The retail space up front sells soaps, lotions, perfumes, cosmetics, and skin- and hair-care products. Behind the glass door is the “skin gym,” where you can treat yourself to facials, waxing, and oxygen treatments. | 3059 M St. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/965–1300 | www.bluemercury.com | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU | 1619 Connecticut Ave. NW, Dupont Circle | 20009 | 202/462–1300 | Station: Dupont Circle.

Sephora.
Better than any department-store perfume or cosmetic counter, this supplier of beauty products offers hundreds of fine fragrances, bath products, and cosmetics from all over the world—right at your fingertips. Sephora also carries its own line of beauty products, all exquisitely packaged and quite affordable. The black-clad salespeople are pleasantly low-key. | 3065 M St. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/338–5644 | www.sephora.com | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU.

Women’s Clothing

The Phoenix.
Owned and operated by the Hays family since 1955, here you can find contemporary clothing in natural fibers by designers such as Eileen Fisher and Flax, as well as jewelry from Germany, Turkey, and Italy, and fine- and folk-art pieces from Mexico—all under a roof with 30 solar panels. | 1514 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/338–4404 | www.thephoenixdc.com.

Urban Chic.
It’s hard to imagine a fashionista who wouldn’t find something here—whether she could afford it might be another story. Gorgeous suits, jeans, cocktail dresses, and accessories from Shoshanna, Tibi, Ella Moss, Rebecca Taylor, and Susana Monaco are to be had. The handbags are a highlight. | 1626 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/338–5398 | www.urbanchiconline.com.

Wink.
While the clientele and styles skew toward the young and trendy, women of all ages shop in this subterranean space for coveted jeans and colorful, sparkly tops, dresses, and jewelry. Theory, Diane von Furstenberg, and Rebecca Taylor are among the labels carried. | 3109 M St. NW, Georgetown | 20007 | 202/338–9465 | www.shopwinkdc.com | Station: Foggy Bottom/GWU.

Dupont Circle

You might call Dupont Circle a younger, less staid version of Georgetown—almost as pricey but with more apartment buildings than houses. Its many restaurants, offbeat shops, and specialty book and record stores give it a cosmopolitan air. The street scene here is more urban than Georgetown’s, with bike messengers and chess aficionados filling up the park. The Sunday farmers’ market is a popular destination for organic food, fresh cheese, homemade soap, and hand-spun wool. To the south of Dupont Circle proper are several boutiques and familiar retail stores close to the Farragut and Farragut North Metro stops. Burberry and Thomas Pink both have stores in this area of Dupont.

Quick Bites: Kramerbooks & Afterwords. Serving brunch in the morning, snacks in the afternoon, cocktails in the evening, and coffee all day long, Kramer’s is the perfect spot for a break. Try to snag an outside table, drop your shopping bags, and watch the world go by. “Sharezies,” appetizers served on tiered plates, are perfect for, well, sharing. | 1517 Connecticut Ave. NW, Dupont Circle | 20036 | 202/387–1400 | www.kramers.com | Station: Dupont Circle.

Antiques and Collectibles

Burton Marinkovich Fine Art.
You know you’ve reached this gallery when you spot the small front yard with two abstract sculptures by Lesley Dill and Leonard Cave. The gallery has works by modern and contemporary masters, including Ross Bleckner, Richard Diebenkorn, David Hockney, Kandinsky, Matisse, Miró, Picasso, and others. Rare modern illustrated books and British linocuts from the Grosvenor School are also specialties. | 1506 21st St. NW, Dupont Circle | 20036 | 202/296–6563 | www.burtonmarinkovich.com | Closed Sun. and Mon. | Station: Dupont Circle.

Geoffrey Diner Gallery.
A must for hard-core antiques shoppers on the hunt for 19th-, 20th-, and 21st-century wares, this store sells contemporary fine art, Tiffany lamps, Arts and Crafts pieces from pivotal designers from Europe and the United States. It’s open Saturday and by appointment only. | 1730 21st St. NW, Dupont Circle | 20009 | 202/483–5005 | www.dinergallery.com | Closed Sun.–Fri. | Station: Dupont Circle.

Fodor’s Choice | Hemphill Fine Arts.
This spacious gem of a contemporary gallery shows mid-career and established artists in allmedia, such as William Christenberry, John Dreyfuss, Linling Lu, and Julie Wolfe. | 1515 14th St. NW, 3rd fl., Logan Circle | 20005 | 202/234–5601 | www.hemphillfinearts.com | Closed Sun. and Mon. | Station: Dupont Circle.

Books

Fodor’s Choice | Kramerbooks & Afterwords.
One of Washington’s best-loved independents, this cozy shop has a choice selection of fiction and nonfiction. Open all night on Friday and Saturday, it’s a convenient meeting place. Kramerbooks shares space with a café that has late-night dining and live music from Wednesday to Saturday. TIP There’s a computer with free Internet access available in the bar. | 1517 Connecticut Ave. NW, Dupont Circle | 20036 | 202/387–1400 | www.kramers.com | Station: Dupont Circle.

Children’s Clothing

Kid’s Closet.
If filling a little one’s closet is on your list, stop here for high-quality contemporary infant and children’s clothing and toys. Open since 1982, the shop carries sizes 0–7 for boys and 0–16 for girls. | 1226 Connecticut Ave. NW, Dupont Circle | 20036 | 202/429–9247 | www.kidsclosetdc.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Dupont Circle.

Crafts and Gifts

Beadazzled.
A rainbow of ready-to-string beads fills the cases at this appealing shop. They also stock jewelry as well as books on crafts history and techniques. Check their website for a class schedule. | 1507 Connecticut Ave. NW, Dupont Circle | 20036 | 202/265–2323 | www.beadazzled.net | Station: Dupont Circle.

The Chocolate Moose.
This store is simple, sheer fun for adults and kids alike. Looking for clacking, windup teeth? You can find them here, along with unusual greeting cards, strange boxer shorts, and unique handcrafts. If playing with all those fun toys makes you hungry, you can pick up a select line of premium European chocolates. | 1743 L St. NW, Dupont Circle | 20036 | 202/463–0992 | www.chocolatemoosedc.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Farragut North.

Home Furnishings

Reincarnations.
Reincarnations is a neighborhood favorite. It’s hard to pinpoint one style that dominates—trendy, antique, funky—so everyone can find something to like. | 1401 14th St. NW, Logan Circle | 20005 | 202/319–1606 | www.reincarnationsfurnishings.com | Mon. | Station: Dupont Circle.

Tabletop.
Evoking a museum gift shop, this is a delightful place to find tiles by Canadian designer Xenia Taler, Marimekko accessories, and Daphne Olive jewelry, as well as modern accessories, pillows, and rugs. | 1608 20th St. NW, Dupont Circle | 20009 | 202/387–7117 | www.tabletopdc.com | Station: Dupont Circle.

Jewelry

Men’s Clothing

J. Press.
Like its flagship store, founded in Connecticut in 1902 as a custom shop for Yale University, this Washington outlet is resolutely traditional: Shetland and Irish wool sport coats are a specialty. | 1801 L St. NW, Dupont Circle | 20036 | 202/857–0120 | www.jpressonline.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Farragut North.

Women’s Clothing

Fodor’s Choice | Betsy Fisher.
Catering to women of all ages and sizes in search of contemporary and trendy styles, this store stocks one-of-a-kind accessories, clothes, shoes, and jewelry by well-known designers like Diane Von Furstenberg. A small selection of up-and-coming designs is also available. | 1224 Connecticut Ave. NW, Dupont Circle | 20036 | 202/785–1975 | www.betsyfisher.com | Station: Dupont Circle.

Fodor’s Choice | Secondi.
One of the city’s finest consignment shops, Secondi carries a well-chosen selection of women’s designer and casual clothing, accessories, and shoes. The brands carried include Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, Donna Karan, Prada, and Anthropologie. | 1702 Connecticut Ave. NW, 2nd fl., Dupont Circle | 20009 | 202/667–1122 | www.secondi.com | Station: Dupont Circle.

Adams Morgan

Scattered among the dozens of Latin, Ethiopian, and international restaurants in this most bohemian of Washington neighborhoods are a score of eccentric shops. If quality is what you seek, Adams Morgan and nearby Woodley Park can be a minefield; tread cautiously. Still, for the bargain hunter it’s great fun. TIP If bound for a specific shop, you may wish to call ahead to verify hours. Adams Morganites are often not clock-watchers, although you can be sure an afternoon stroll on the weekend will yield a few hours of great browsing. The evening hours bring scores of revelers to the row, so plan to go before dark unless you want to couple your shopping with a party pit stop.

How to get there is another question. Though the Woodley Park/Zoo/Adams Morgan Metro stop is technically closer to the 18th Street strip (where the interesting shops are), getting off here means that you will have to walk over the bridge on Calvert Street. Five minutes longer, the walk from the Dupont Circle Metro stop is more scenic; you cruise north on 18th Street through tree-lined streets of row houses and embassies. You can also easily catch Metrobus 42 or a cab from Dupont to Adams Morgan.

Quick Bites: Tryst Coffeehouse. Relax with a latte on one of the couches or cushiony chairs at this neighborhood hangout. They have a surprisingly large menu that includes sandwiches, bagels, pastries, and alcoholic drinks in addition to their coffee selections. Free Wi-Fi on weekdays is an added bonus. | 2459 18th St. NW, Adams Morgan | 20009 | 202/232–5500 | www.trystdc.com | Station: Woodley Park/Zoo.

Books

Idle Time Books.
Since 1981, this multilevel used-book store has been selling “rare to medium rare” books with plenty of meaty titles in all genres, especially out-of-print literature. | 2467 18th St. NW, Adams Morgan | 20009 | 202/232–4774 | www.idletimebooks.com | Station: Woodley Park/Zoo.

Chocolate

Cocova.
For chocoholics with a gourmet palate, this is one-stop shopping. The shop will feed your passions, with offerings both foreign (Valrhona from France) and domestic (Recchiuti from San Francisco and Vosges Haut Chocolat from Chicago). Selections from D.C.-area chocolatiers make for tasty souvenirs. | 1904 18th St. NW, Adams Morgan | 20009 | 202/903–0346 | www.cocova.com | mornings | Station: Dupont Circle.

Crafts and Gifts

Toro Mata.
Stunning black-and-white pottery from the Peruvian town of Chulucana is a specialty of this gallery; they directly represent six different artisans living and working there. The walls of the gallery are lined with elegant handcrafted wood mirrors, colorful original paintings, alpaca apparel, and other imported Andean crafts. | 2410 18th St. NW, Adams Morgan | 20009 | 202/232–3890 | www.toromata.com | Closed Mon. | Station: Woodley Park/Zoo.

Home Furnishings

Skynear Designs Gallery.
The owners of this extravagant shop travel the world to find the unusual, and their journeys have netted modern art, furniture, and home accessories. A staff of interior designers is on hand to help you identify and sort through the collection of treasures. | 2122 18th St. NW, Adams Morgan | 20009 | 202/797–7160 | www.skynearonline.com | Station: Woodley Park/Zoo.

Men’s and Women’s Clothing

Meeps Fashionette.
Catering to fans of retro glamour, this shop at the bottom of the Adams Morgan strip stocks a wide selection of vintage clothes and costumes for women and men from the ’40s through the ’90s. There’s also an expanding selection of new and original designs by local talent. | 2104 18th St. NW, Adams Morgan | 20009 | 202/265–6546 | www.meepsdc.com | Station: Dupont Circle.

Mercedes Bien.
Vintage 1940s through ’80s clothes and retro-wear here includes everything from cocktail dresses to cowboy boots. You can also find a selection of jewelry and belts, all handpicked by the owner Mercedes. With no website, this small walk-up shop attracts buyers by offering exceptional, personal service. It’s open weekends only. | 2423 18th St. NW, Adams Morgan | 20009 | 202/360–8481 | Mon.–Fri. | Station: Woodley Park/Zoo.

Fodor’s Choice | Nana.
A hip and friendly staff is one of the reasons why D.C. women love this store. Another is the stock of both new, repurposed, and vintage women’s clothes at affordable prices, plus handmade jewelry and cool handbags. The owner Jackie Flanagan’s own line of clothing, based on vintage patterns, is made in D.C. at the Bits of Thread studio. In 2012, Nana moved from the U Street Corridor to its current spot in Mount Pleasant. | 3068 Mt. Pleasant St. NW, Adams Morgan | 20009 | 202/667–6955 | www.nanadc.com | Closed Mon. | Station: Columbia Heights.

Violet.
Young women looking for fashion-forward styles will find plenty to love here at prices that fit their wallets. Short, seductive dresses, silky wraps and jackets, big funky earrings, and high-stepping shoes are sure to turn heads. Purchases are wrapped in—what else?—purple tissue paper. | 2439 18th St. NW, Adams Morgan | 20009 | 202/621–9225 | www.violetdc.com | Closed Mon.

Shoes

Fleet Feet Sports Shop.
The expert staff at this friendly shop will assess your feet and your training schedule before recommending the perfect pair of new running shoes. Shoes, apparel, and accessories for running, swimming, soccer, and cycling crowd the small space, where you might just bump into former Mayor Adrian Fenty (his brother and sister-in-law own the shop). | 1841 Columbia Rd. NW, Adams Morgan | 20009 | 202/387–3888 | www.fleetfeetdc.com | Station: Woodley Park/Zoo.

U Street Corridor

In the 1930s and 1940s U Street was known for its classy theaters and jazz clubs. After decades of decline following the 1968 riots, the neighborhood has been revitalized. The area has gentrified at lightning speed, but has retained a diverse mix of multiethnic young professionals and older, working-class African-Americans. At night the neighborhood’s club, bar, and restaurant scene comes alive. During the day the street scene is more laid-back, with more locals than tourists occupying the distinctive shops. TIP On the third Thursday of each month, the area shops stay open late to offer light refreshments and special deals for the fun “Shopper Socials.”

Greater U Street Neighborhood Visitor Center.
Pick up brochures and maps of the neighborhood at this small visitor center next to Ben’s Chili Bowl. Although the center is unstaffed, you can pose for a photo with a life-size picture of DC’s Black Broadway most famous resident, Duke Ellington. | 1211 U St. NW, U St. Corridor | 20009 | 202/661–7581 | 10–6| Station: U St./Cardozo.

Antiques and Collectibles

GoodWood.
Like a local Anthropologie, this friendly shop sells vintage and antique wood furniture, including wonderful 19th-century American pieces, along with mirrors, decorative items, dresses made by local designers—even a small but gorgeous collection of estate jewelry. | 1428 U St. NW, U Street Corridor | 20009 | 202/986–3640 | www.goodwooddc.com | mornings | Station: U St./Cardozo.

Millennium.
This eclectic shop sells what it calls “20th-century antiques,” a unique blend of high-end vintage midcentury modern furniture and decorative art. | 1528 U St. NW, downstairs, U Street Corridor | 20009 | 202/483–1218 | Closed Mon.–Wed. | Station: U St./Cardozo.

Home Furnishings

Home Rule.
Here you can find some of the latest design elements from Europe for the bath, kitchen, and dining room. There are also playful tissue holders and other fun and affordable household items in cheerful colors. | 1807 14th St. NW, U Street Corridor | 20009 | 202/797–5544 | www.homerule.com | Station: U St./Cardozo.

Miss Pixie’s Furnishings and Whatnot.
The well-chosen collectibles—handpicked by Miss Pixie herself—include gorgeous textiles, antique home furnishings, lamps and mirrors, glass- and silverware, and artwork. The reasonable prices will grab your attention, as will the location, an old car-dealer showroom. | 1626 14th St, NW, U Street Corridor | 20001 | 202/232–8171 | www.misspixies.com | Station: U St./Cordozo or Dupont Circle.

Muléh.
Exquisite contemporary Indonesian and Filipino home furnishings and trendy clothes from LA and New York fill this expansive showroom. The furniture pieces, which are the primary focus of the store, are made from fine organic materials. It’s sort of like wandering through a luxury resort in Southeast Asia and finding a fabulous clothing boutique tucked in the back. | 1831 14th St. NW, U Street Corridor | 20009 | 202/667–3440 | www.muleh.com | Station: U St./Cardozo.

Women’s Clothing

Current Boutique.
Don’t be fooled by the new dresses in the front—this shop is a consignment shopper’s dream. “Current” styles from brands such as Tory Burch, Citizens, True Religion, Banana Republic, Free People, and Diane Von Furstenberg just might fit better when you buy them at a third of their original price. | 1809 14th St. NW, U Street Corridor | 20009 | 202/588–7311 | www.currentboutique.com | Closed Mon. | Station: U St./Cardozo.

Redeem.
With street-smart clothes, boots, and accessories, women and men who are stuck in a fashion rut can find redemption here with brands like Funktional and Los Angeles–based thvm, plus Woolverine boots. A pop-up shop in the front with “Mad Men”–types of vintage accessories for men adds to the fun. | 1734 14th St. NW, U Street Corridor | 20009 | 202/332–7447 | www.redeemus.com | Closed Tues. and mornings Wed.–Mon. | Station: U St./Cardozo.

Upper Northwest

The major thoroughfare Wisconsin Avenue runs northwest through the city from Georgetown toward Maryland. It crosses the border in the midst of the Friendship Heights shopping district, which is also near Chevy Chase. Other neighborhoods in the District yield more interesting finds and more enjoyable shopping and sightseeing, but it’s hard to beat Friendship Heights for sheer convenience and selection. The upscale lineup includes Barneys CO-OP, Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, and two Saks Fifth Avenues—the men’s and women’s collections are in separate buildings. Stand-alone designer stores like Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Cartier up the luxury quotient. Although Filene’s Basement closed, Nordstrom Rack joined the discounters Loehmann’s and T.J. Maxx, who hawk the designer names at much lower prices. Lord & Taylor and chains like the Gap, Ann Taylor Loft, and Williams Sonoma occupy the middle ground.

Tightly packed into a few blocks, the big-name area is self-explanatory. However, there are also a few local gems in the surrounding neighborhood.

Books

Politics and Prose.
After being bought by two former Washington Post reporters in 2011, this legendary independent continues the original owners’ tradition of jam-packed author events and signings, but they added another main attraction: Opus, the book-making machine that instantly prints out-of-issue books or self-published manuscripts. In their coffee shop downstairs, you can debate the issues of the day or read a book—of your own writing, perhaps. The nearest Metro is 15 minutes away. | 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW, Upper Northwest | 20008 | 202/364–1919 | www.politics-prose.com | Station: Friendship Heights.

Food and Wine

Calvert Woodley Liquors.
This liquor store carries not only an excellent selection of wine and hard liquor, but also many kinds of cheese and other picnic and cocktail-party fare. Its international offerings have made it a favorite pantry for embassy parties. | 4339 Connecticut Ave. NW, Upper Northwest | 20008 | 202/966–4400 | www.calvertwoodley.com | Closed Sun. | Station: Van Ness/UDC.

Rodman’s Discount Foods and Drugstore.
The rare store that carries wine, cheese, and space heaters, Rodman’s is a fascinating hybrid of Kmart and Dean & Deluca. The appliances are downstairs, the imported peppers and chocolates upstairs. | 5100 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Upper Northwest | 20016 | 202/363–3466 | www.rodmans.com | Station: Friendship Heights.

Gifts

Periwinkle Inc.
Warm and welcoming, Periwinkle Inc. offers a panoply of gift options: boutique chocolates, cases of nutty and gummy treats, handmade jewelry, Stonewall Kitchen snacks, hand-designed wrapping paper, scented bath products, printed note cards, and Voluspa candles. | 3815 Livingston St. NW, Upper Northwest | 20015 | 202/364–3076 | www.perwinklegiftsdc.com | Station: Friendship Heights.

Jewelry

Ann Hand.
Catering to Washington’s powerful and prestigious, this jewelry and gift shop specializing in patriotic pins may seem intimidating, but prices begin at $45. Hand’s signature pin, The Liberty Eagle, is $195. Photos on the walls above brightly lit display cases showcase who’s who in Washington wearing you-know-who’s designs. | 4885 MacArthur Blvd. NW, Upper Northwest | 20016 | 202/333–2979 | www.annhand.com | Sat.–Sun.

Women’s Clothing

CatchCan.
Bright and breezy clothes made of mostly natural fibers, plus comfortable but playful shoes and funky rain boots, make casual wear as fun as it is practical at this shop. The local owners’ love of color continues with a sizeable collection of jewelry, greeting cards, housewares, and soaps. | 5516 Connecticut Ave. NW, Upper Northwest | 20016 | 202/686–5316 | www.catchcan.com | Station: Friendship Heights.

Julia Farr.
Women who lobby on Capitol Hill and women who lunch at the country club look to Julia for a professional and polished look. Decorated in soothing sea shades, her boutique carries classic styles from emerging and established designers. Appointments are encouraged. | 5232 44th St. NW, Upper Northwest | 20015 | 202/253–3277 | www.juliafarrdc.com | Closed Sun. and Mon. | Station: Friendship Heights.

Tabandeh.
This avant-garde women’s clothing boutique stocks an expertly selected cache of J Brand jeans, Rick Owens tops, and Ann Demeulemeester clothing, shoes, and jewelry. | 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Upper Northwest | 20015 | 202/966–5080 | www.tabandehjewelry.com | Station: Friendship Heights.

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