Illustration by Molly Jacques for Oh So Beautiful Paper

Confession: I’m actually not a big shopper!  Sure, I make semi-regular visits to our DC-area Anthropologies and J. Crews, but you’re far more likely to find me browsing the garden section of my neighborhood hardware store (Go Frager’s!) than anywhere else.  At first I wasn’t sure what to include in a mini shopping guide for DC, but I figured I’ll just include some of the shops that I love and hope that you enjoy them, too!

Photo Credit: Trohv

Trohv  With locations in Baltimore and DC’s Takoma Park neighborhood, Trohv is pretty much my definition of the perfect store.  Trohv manages to be well curated and still offer a wide selection of beautiful goods, from furniture and home decor to kitchen goods to stationery and gifts (not to mention a ridiculously cute baby + kids section).

Nana  A super-cute boutique in the Mount Pleasant neighborhood, Nana carries clothing lines from independent designers along with jewelry and a small selection of vintage clothes.  I love the cute dresses and necklaces!

Crooked Beat Records  I love music and, like handwritten stationery, vinyl has a very special place in my heart.  Crooked Beat in Adams Morgan is my favorite local source for new releases from indie artists and vintage records.

Consignment Shops  DC is sadly lacking in the thrift store department, so I turn to our local consignment shops when I’m looking for a great deal or for something vintage but still chic.  My two favorite consignment stores are Secondi in Dupont Circle (you can find great deals and adorable party dresses!) and Urban Chic on 14th Street.

Furniture Shops  I generally prefer antiques to new furniture, and if you know where to look you can often find a great deal on a fantastic piece.  My favorites include Modern Mobler (specializing in midcentury modern furniture) and Miss Pixie’s Furnishings and Whatnot.  We’re also big fans of the DC Big Flea, which takes place five times a year at the Dulles Expo Center.  You can find anything there, from furniture to antique prints to clothing (it’s also where we get most of our cocktail glasses!).

p.s.  If you love to cook, you’ll love a new shop in Capitol Hill called Sapore.  The entire store is dedicated to specialty oils and vinegars!