If you’re into the uber-preppy look The Lucky Knot is fun.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
Red Barn is great, also check out Boxwood near Shoe Hive/Mystique.

These were going to be my suggestions, too. If you have kids 529 consign is a few doors down from Boxwood/Old Town Books. Bishop Boutique is fun to check out. This warehouse sale event already happened but there is a good map at the bottom that shows the independent stores.

https://alexandriastylebook.com/alexandria-stylebook/mint-condition-tips-to-navigate-alexandria-warehouse-sale

529 used to be priced higher than you could find the same product new in sale sections

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Whatever you do, stay out of American in Paris.

Haha wow. That place is still there?

I'll bite. What's wrong with American in Paris?

Anonymous wrote:
Red Barn is great, also check out Boxwood near Shoe Hive/Mystique.

These were going to be my suggestions, too. If you have kids 529 consign is a few doors down from Boxwood/Old Town Books. Bishop Boutique is fun to check out. This warehouse sale event already happened but there is a good map at the bottom that shows the independent stores.

https://alexandriastylebook.com/alexandria-stylebook/mint-condition-tips-to-navigate-alexandria-warehouse-sale

OP here -- Thanks for these great suggestions!

Anonymous wrote:Whatever you do, stay out of American in Paris.

Haha wow. That place is still there?

If you have a tween/teen, Happy Place on South Union is cute.

Seconding Shoe Hive - note there are two locations with different offerings at each. Next to the location with actual shoes is Mystique, which is a lovely jewelry store. Some bespoke pieces.

Red Barn is great, also check out Boxwood near Shoe Hive/Mystique.

I love Sacred Circle. It's a metaphysical bookstore and they have lots of cool stuff in addition to books -- jewelry, incense, etc. My DH has no interest in the stuff they sell there but loves going there with me because he finds "the space relaxing."

I have always loved Hard Times chili, and now that the ones I used to frequent are gone was excited to eat at the one in Old Town the last time we were there. It was disgusting -- the whole place was filthy. 0/10; I do not recommend.

Red Barn Merchantile

It's all chains/drop ship junk now. Sorry! Most independent shops closed in the 20teens.

If you like consignment, Mint Condition often has great stuff.

Whatever you do, stay out of American in Paris.

Shoe Hive

Manse for home goods, gifts.

I'm going to be in Old Town Alexandria next Saturday and will have a few hours to do some shopping. If you know the area, I'd love your recommendations on fun non-chain stores. I already know about Old Town Books and will be going there, but I'd also like to shop for clothes and accessories and gifts. When I've shopped in the DC area before, I've enjoyed Phoenix in Georgetown and am hoping to find a similar store. Thanks for your suggestions!