By Michael McCarthy By Michael McCarthy | December 30, 2019 | Style & Beauty,
Looking good has never been so easy in the nation’s capital.
Tysons Galleria boasts scores of luxe brands, including the first location for Paris-based Ba&sh.
CityCenterDC
(825 10th St. NW)
When it comes to the Oz of high-end shopping, the hits keep coming. Case in point: Tiffany’s recently joined the luxe parade of powerhouse brands—from CH Carolina Herrera to Paul Stuart—in this downtown haven of luxe.
Insider’s Tip Iconic silversmith Christofle offers a lovely new twist on entertaining: the Mood Party, a 24-piece set for six people, with silverware, silver plates and mirror-polished steel-and-walnut base ($1,490).
Liljenquist & Beckstead
(Tysons Galleria, 2001 International Drive, McLean, Va.)
There’s no better spot to fall in love with exquisite timepieces in our area, period. While the legendary jeweler sells baubles in two other local venues (Vienna and Bethesda), this is the brand’s salute to Hublot, Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, Chopard and Longines, among other coveted brands.
Insider’s Tip Many customers also benefit from exclusive invites to preview timepiece launches, and some customers even rub elbows with brand ambassadors like hockey superstar Alex Ovechkin. The Caps star recently hung out at an intimate Hublot dinner at DC’s Nobu with a small group of Liljenquist & Beckstead’s frequent customers.
Trousseau
(306 Maple Ave., Vienna)
Few in America do intimate apparel better than this boutique in Vienna. Now in its 20th year, Sarah Wiener and her team lord over one of the largest, privately owned bra-fit specialty stores in the country (160 sizes, 4,500 high-end bras in stock). Trousseau’s team keeps a purchase profile for each client, which means favorites and wish lists are a mouse-click and boutique visit away.
Insider’s Tip Our bodies change, and so do the ways our undergarments fit. Trousseau’s insider solution: complimentary alterations to ensure comfort.
Everard’s
(1802 Wisconsin Ave. NW)
There’s a reason patrons love this clothier in the heart of Georgetown: Buy something here, and they’ll never see it at another soiree. Bespoke is the watchword at this two-decades-old venue, which dedicates one floor to women (designers include Biana and Alan Paine), men (designers include 7 Downie St and Hickey Freeman) and alterations.
Insider’s Tip We love complimentary perks like alterations and courier service, but the showstoppers are the private shopping and wardrobe-consulting.
Bluemercury
(3320 Wisconsin Ave. NW)
Sure, this powerhouse has everything a human could need in skincare, makeup and wellness products to maintain and rejuvenate (think Trish McEvoy to new brand offerings like Augustinus Bader and WelleCo), but don’t overlook pampering treatments—from facials to massage—at Bluemercury spas tucked into area locations.
Insider’s Tip Bluemercury CEO and co-founder Marla Beck created the M-61 Skincare’s PowerGlow Peel (one minute exfoliation, 30 treatments), and the buzz is that it literally changes lives.
Old Town’s Alx&Co creates one-of-a-kind baubles, including antique pieces.
Alx&Co
(121 S. Royal St., Alexandria)
Entering this shop in Old Town is like having access to a private jeweler. Private consultations include showcasing diamonds, sapphires, rubies and a range of gemstones—all used to create customized in-house designs.
Insider’s Tip Nothing is outsourced, so for bespoke pieces, customers work directly with a designer every step of the way, including any resizing, cleaning and repair.
Tysons Galleria
(2001 International Drive, McLean, Va.)
A who’s who of luxe—including Burberry, Cartier, Bottega Veneta and Chanel—lines this gorgeous space, making it a go-to for suburban disciples of chic and thousands of international visitors each year.
Insider’s Tip The Galleria always surprises: Paris-based Ba&sh recently landed at the Galleria, with whimsical curated looks, and Canada Goose, featuring knitwear, lightweight down, rainwear and parkas will be around throughout the winter.
Enzo Custom offers men’s bespoke one-on-one service on Connecticut Avenue.
Enzo Custom
(1001 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202.223.0000)
Gents, this is the type of bespoke nirvana you likely haven’t encountered before. The appointment-only shop in the heart of downtown offers a one-on-one private experience for suits, tuxedos and dress shirts. Patrons also will find the latest designs from brands like Ermenegildo Zegna and Loro Piana.
Insider’s Tip When a final product is delivered in four weeks, it’s the result of serious consultation, where an Enzo team member has discussed a customer’s preferences, lifestyle and work habits; the shop boasts a perfect-fit guarantee and 30 days of complimentary alterations.
Tiny Jewel Box
(1155 Connecticut Ave.)
They had us at a $99,495 Harry Kotlar platinum ring with a cushion center flanked by two half-moon diamonds and melee diamonds set in the artisan pavé scallop design. Total diamond weight: 4.23 carats. They keep us coming back with renowned designers like Alex Sepkus and Adel Chefridi. Also look for an impressive number of antique finds at this 90-year-old destination for all things that glitter.
Insider’s Tip Talk about love at first sight: For Valentine’s Day, the boutique hosts a designer’s event Feb. 8-9; shop for handcrafted collections from Penny Preville and Marco Bicego.
Photography by: BRANDS