HELP PLEASE: any recommendations for smaller boutiques for Inaugaral Ball gown/outfit?

[Anonymous]

Other than the larger stores and the chains (Nordstrom, Saks,, J Crew, etc.), are there any smaller boutiques that would be worth looking into for something to wear to an Inaugural Ball?

Would appreciate any suggestions and brief descriptions of the target clients of or types of styles carried by the places suggested.

I am 44, blonde, height/weight in proportion (but NOT rail thin) and tend to look best in formal wear that is more structured as opposed to the kind that drapes right against the body.

Thanks so much!

[Anonymous]

While not a boutique I've had really good luck at Lord & Taylor. I bought an inaugural ball dress there 8 years ago for $65. It was a cute dress and I wore it again 4 years ago. Frankly that was about the right amount to spend. The official balls are SO not elegant.

[Anonymous]

Go. To. Harriet.

Harriet Kassman in Mazza. Amazing service, a fabulous selection of gowns, and starting on the 10th, they are doing a gown event (I think it's like free alterations or something).

[Anonymous]

I like a small boutique store in Old Town Alexandria. It is called An American in Paris and located at 1225 King St., 703-519-8234

here is a quick description of type of clothing they carry. I know they carry a lot of formal wear and it is quite nice.

http://www.luckymag.com/sites/cityguides/washington_dc/stores/americanparis#

Another store very close to it carries some italian dresses. I saw there a dress that I thought would be perfect for inauguration ball.

Good Luck!

[Anonymous]

Lord Taylor has a surprisingly nice selection. Also try Ginger in Bethesda Row, and there's always Loehmann's back room. If money is not an object, Nanette LePore has beautiful things.

[Anonymous]

While it is all exciting...don't spend a lot of money on a dress. it is a sea of people and someone will bump and spill on you. I have been to 3 and it is a madhouse.

I am going to Black Tie and Boots and they are expecting 12,000 people literally. I am wearing a great dress that i got for $59. if someone spills on me...it won't matter.

And just a heads up...there is very little food and they are all cash bar.