Say you wanted to turn a massive department store into a fresh, happening boutique where all the twenty-somethings love to hang. There’s probably no better place to do it than that ever-popular intersection of high-end brands and young people who like hanging out around them, the Mosaic District.
The outdoor shopping complex has suddenly found itself in a privileged position. Bloomingdale’s, a luxury shopping institution, will open its first “Bloomie’s,” a first-of-its-kind concept store, in the middle of the district on August 26. And its aimed right at NoVA shoppers.
“We chose this first Bloomie’s location within Mosaic District, a local hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, because it provides an approachable and convenient location for customers,” Charles Anderson, director of stores, said in a statement. “The assortment and experience here have been built to complement the market, not only to reach new customers but also to engage our existing loyal customers.”
To match the bustling, lifestyle-driven nature of Mosaic, the 22,000-square-foot store has been designed as a marked departure from typical department stores.
“Our approach to Bloomie’s was unlike any of our other stores,” said Denise Magid, executive vice president and general merchandising manager at Bloomingale’s. “Bloomie’s is designed to be more casual, more comfortable, and something that fits into your everyday life.”
The inclusion of DMV-favorite Colada Shop, for one, is a stopping point all its own. The Cuban-style restaurant will serve cocktails, coffee, and bites from inside the store. But it’s not just about happy hours. The store has a curated and rotating fashion collection, some of which are distributed across freestanding “carts”, designed to introduce shoppers to new items, labels, and brands for a more boutique experience. Stylists will be on-hand for advice. Customization and alteration services make for a great reason to drop by.
“Whether you are exploring the latest trends, grabbing a bite at Colada Shop, seeing the new drop from your favorite designer or working with a stylist to revamp your wardrobe, all of this can be done at Bloomie’s,” Magid said.
Landing the exclusive first location of Bloomie’s represents a big step forward for the District, which has quickly emerged as a premier shopping district just outside the beltway. To celebrate the opening, Bloomie’s will host pre-opening activations through August, culminating in a week of festivities prior to the grand opening on August 26.
Feature image courtesy Bloomie’s
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