What’s In Store: DC Area Vintage & Secondhand
I spent last weekend in DC, and as you may have figured out, one of my favorite activities is shopping. (Don’t worry, I went to the Botanical Gardens and the Museum of Natural History, too.) I gathered up a list of places I visited, plus some that I didn’t get to but might be worth it. Most are consignment stores, with more of a boutique atmosphere, rather than a true thrift environment.
Where I Shopped…
Clothes Encounters of a Second Kind (Capitol Hill/Southeast)
If you are an old lady with old lady style, you might like this store. I barely saw anything that caught my eye…but I did have to pick my jaw off the floor when I spotted some snakeskin Loubs at the cash wrap. So I guess you never know what you’ll find…
Diva (Old Town Alexandria)
I loved this boutique, which can only be described as an explosion of girl. All of the fixtures are pink and flirty and so much fun, and there was a LOT of merchandise that I wanted to take home with me, although I was a little skeptical that the markdown schedule was not noted on the tag (a usual feature at consignment stores.) I picked up a to-die-for J Crew Collection skirt there. Make sure to check out the bargain basement!
Eastern Market (Capitol Hill)
This outdoor market had several vintage and antique vendors, booths bursting with goodies. The prices are really good already, and at flea markets, haggling is pretty much expected, so you could definitely score a good find. I was fixated on a vintage Pendleton plaid blazer, but I didn’t have enough cash and was too lazy to go to the ATM (in the indoor farmer’s market area, although many vendors now take credit cards).
Mint Condition (Old Town Alexandria)
Right around the corner from Diva with a similar setup, although the employees are not half as spunky. I found a LOT of great things here, and the further-discounted-items rack had some GEMS— I bought a darling Lilly Pulitzer sundress (and buying out of season is rare for me) at a fraction of the retail price and can’t WAIT for summer so I can show it off.
Secondi (Dupont Circle)
This place was a MADHOUSE on Saturday afternoon, but the crowd is just a testimony to the quality of the merch. Perfect Marc Jacobs coats, Kate Spade handbags galore, A+++, would do business again.
On my next trip…
Annie Creamcheese (Georgetown)
Vintage designer duds plus up-and-coming fashion. Looks like a great mix of merchandise, even if their web page prominently features the Kardashians shopping at the Vegas branch.
Georgetown Flea Market (Georgetown)
Nothing beats a good, old-fashioned flea.
Meeps (Adams Morgan)
Strictly vintage.
Mercedes Bien (Adams Morgan)
More vintage.
Nana (U Street)
Kind of like Etsy in store form— mix of vintage, designer, and handmade. Follow their blog for secret sale info.
Treat - (Old Town Alexandria)
Basically a brick & mortar Gilt Groupe. Kicking myself for not making it here when I was sooo close. Get on their mailing list so you know what’s coming.
Thank you to E of District of Chic and my lovely readers for the recommendations. Hope this helps anyone who lives in or visits the DC area! Feel free to add any I missed in the comments.
