From bridal shops to bookstores, Northern Virginia is home to Black-owned boutiques for every customer, whether you’re trying to find the hat for any occasion, or even purchase a hand-crafted puppet. Here are the Black-owned shops and boutiques to stop at year-round for your varying needs.
Donna Lewis
With its hand-crafted clothing, Donna Lewis made news throughout the pandemic for creating masks that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi fashionably coordinated with her pantsuits, causing people from around the world to contact the boutique for their own masking needs. Now, they’re having a Spring Blowout sale — buy two masks and get one free. Masks are $22 each and made out of the fine fabrics that the owner also purchases for clothing. Named after his wife, Chris Lewis started the shop to provide upscale clothes to customers in NoVA. 309-B Cameron St., Alexandria
Harambee Books + Artworks
This independent bookstore offers hard-to-find literature by and about people of African descent. While other booksellers might carry works by mainstream Black literature and bestsellers, Harambee — which means “working together” in Swahili — is determined to also showcase small press and independently published works. It also brings artwork and other fun collections, like puzzles and calendars, to the table. The Old Town-based bookstore is dedicated to its mission of literacy education as a human right for all and provides quality resources and services for the community. 1132 Prince St., Alexandria
Mienne Beauty Supply
Mienne offers hair and beauty products for all hair and skin types. This small business is Black- and woman-owned and focuses on ethnic hair products. Mienne understands the importance of having products that suit your hair care needs right in your own neighborhood and vows to bring that to customers, whether that be through gels and relaxers or weaves and crochet braids. 1880 Howard Ave., Ste. 105, Vienna
Puppet Heaven
If you’re seeking a niche experience, you can visit Puppet Heaven in the underground shops in Arlington. The name is a dead giveaway — they offer all things puppets. Owner Alban Odoulamy is a formally trained marionette puppeteer and has even designed sets for children’s television programs. With over 25 years in business, Puppet Heaven brings hand-crafted entertainment to children and adults alike. The well-stocked shop has everything from finger puppets to full-blown marionettes that are sure to delight. 1750 Crystal Dr., Arlington
ROCKDEEP
This store has all the shoes you could ever need–well, almost. CEO Rocky Parrish, who is originally from Mississippi and moved to the DMV in his youth, created ROCKDEEP to offer comfortable and functional footwear for everyone. With over 300 designs and 10 years in business, ROCKDEEP has outdoor and athletic footwear, as well as other apparel, to satisfy any customer. 101 N. Union St., Alexandria
Soliloquy Bridal Couture
Soliloquy Bridal Couture not only offers a private place to provide a peaceful environment for brides, but has its own flagship with designer Barbara Kavchok to bring exclusive and custom-made designs to their brides. With over a decade in the business, Soliloquy also offers bridal accessories, dresses for the bridal party, and tuxedos. 754 Elden St., Ste. 103, Herndon
The Bridal Room
Providing a curated selection of gowns, The Bridal Room offers a one-of-a-kind experience for a bride and their guests. The owner, Heba Adat, used to spend her childhood watching her aunt design wedding gowns, and knew that one day she wanted to have her own bridal boutique. Since 2013, Adat has combined her passion for weddings with years of customer service and business experience to deliver each bride a dress fit for their special day. 1365 Beverly Rd., Ste. One, McLean
Threadleaf
This shop brings sustainability in multiple forms, from personal style to greener living. As a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center, Nicole McGrew opened Threadleaf in 2018, growing it to Threadleaf and Company in 2022. With sustainability workshops and events, McGrew helps combat the fast fashion industry and connects customers with sustainable choices. Ultimately, Threadleaf and Company is looking to help you create a more cultivated style of living. 102 N. Fayette St., Alexandria
Tops of Old Town
This high-fashion boutique offers both elegance and extravagance in designer hats and clothes, like a top complete with feathers and colorful, classy suits. With hats fit for an English royal wedding, the staff with 29 years of experience can help you find the tops and other accessories you need for any occasion. From fascinators to wide brimmed hats, owner Willie Mae Mitchell has cultivated a collection for everyone to enjoy. 2400 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria
Feature image courtesy Threadleaf
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