Washington D.C. barely gets mentioned among the most fashionable cities in the US. With rivals like New York City and Los Angeles, it makes sense that the American capital gets lost in the conversation. Is Washington D.C. fashionable at all? Yes, it is. From its stylish university students and dapper young politicians to sophisticated socialites, people know how to dress and understand the value of a good outfit. As for where they shop, some of the more notable places include National Harbour, CityCenterDC, Georgetown's shopping district, and The Wharf District. These and more are the best places to shop in Washington D.C., complete with designer goods, vintage finds, and more.
National Harbour
Let's start with National Harbour, the ultimate shopping destination in the American capital. Located along the Potomac River and across the Downtown
neighborhood of Washington D.C., this waterfront retail oasis is a shopaholic's dream. The district boasts about 75 boutiques, many of which belong to the world's most famous brands. There's Nike, UGG, Converse, Loft, Pandora, and more. Whatever you need and want, you're guaranteed to find it here. And even if you don't plan on buying anything, the area's many restaurants are there to feed you to your heart's content. What more could you ask for?
Source: Flickr.com/ Ron Cogswell
The Wharf
The Wharf is another waterfront district in Washington D.C. where shopping is as much a way of life as any other. But instead of the typical clothes and accessories, the shops here are more about beauty and wellness. From hair salons and nail spas to beauty stores and home decor shops, this place is geared to help you (and your home) look good. This may seem like it's only for a certain type of shopper but don't overlook it just because of that. There are still plenty of things to do, see, and of course, shop around here too.
Source: Flickr.com/ Ted Eytan
CityCenterDC
CityCenterDC is a treasure trove of the best luxury finds in all of the American capital. This mixed-use development has a luxury hotel, a public park, apartment buildings filled with some of the best
luxury homes in Washington D.C., and of course, a myriad of high-end stores. You'll recognize famous names like Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci, Burberry, and more. The ultimate luxury shopping destination, this place is for those who can afford designer clothes. If these labels aren't within your budget, however, you can still hang out at the public park or eat in the many chic restaurants here.
Source: CityCenterDC Facebook Page
U Street
Washington D.C. may not be known for its fashion, especially in contrast to the likes of New York City and Los Angeles, but don't overlook its creative spirit! If you go to U Street, you'll find a boatload of the most fascinating finds you'll get your hands on. Vintage stores and indie boutiques make up the area's retail scene, instilling a strong sense of local love and giving a major platform for D.C.'s homegrown designers. U Street is also known as “Black Broadway” as it’s a major cultural and nightlife hub for the African-American community.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Keizers
Georgetown
If you ever
move to Washington D.C. and you're the type to go out and shop a lot, you'll likely spend a lot of your time—possibly most of your time!—in Georgetown. While it may be the city's university district with Georgetown University (and its students) taking up most of the area, the place is for everybody. The shops here, for example, are famous high-street brands like Urban Outfitters, J.Crew, Madewell, Abercrombie & Fitch, Lululemon, and more. And course, no visit to this part of the American capital is complete without a box or two from Georgetown Cupcake, one of Washington D.C.'s most famous dessert stores.
Source: The Georgetown Voice/ Ted Eytan
While it may not be a fashion capital, there are still many great places to go shopping in Washington D.C.! The American capital has a handful of malls and shopping districts filled with amazing finds, cool gifts, delicious snacks, and more.
