Finding exactly what you want to buy can be time-consuming, but it doesn’t need to be. Readers recommend these options around NoVA for the best shopping.
Bridal Shop
WINNER: Brooke’s Bridal & Ball
The friendly staff at this family-owned business makes every bride-to-be feel special. Brooke’s carries a full line of designer dresses and a private label collection. In addition to bridal gowns, you’ll find dresses for all of the ladies in the wedding party, as well as prom attire. 3955 Chain Bridge Rd., Ste. 103, Fairfax
RUNNER-UP: Soliloquy Bridal Couture
754 Elden St., Ste. 103, Herndon
Children’s Clothing
WINNER: Ashby Mae Boutique
Loudoun County families have been shopping here for classic children’s clothing since 2016. Every brand in the boutique is hand selected. Whether it’s a traditional boy’s polo shirt, a girl’s twirl dress, or a cute baby gift, you’ll find it at Ashby Mae, especially if you shop in-store. 305 E. Market St., Unit N, Leesburg
RUNNER-UP: Pink & Brown Boutique
1129 King St., Alexandria
Clothing Boutique
WINNER: Monkee’s of Fairfax
For stylish women’s clothing, the mother-daughter duo at Monkee’s is happy to help you curate a look that’s truly you, from fun rompers and pretty dresses to cropped jeans and comfy sweaters. Make sure to check out the shoe collection and the handbags. (You can never have enough of either.) 11899 Grand Commons Ave., Fairfax
RUNNER-UP: Mode on Main by Mara
10417 Main St., Fairfax
Consignment Shop, Adults
WINNER: Wardrobe Rescue Consignment
Step out in style without breaking the bank. The items in this consignment shop include designer brands, such as Lilly Pulitzer, Louis Vuitton, and Prada, with new inventory added daily. Consignors should schedule appointments to bring in like-new, seasonal items. If they are sold, there’s a 50-50 split. 134 Church St. NW, Vienna
RUNNER-UP: New to You
108 W. Broad St., Falls Church
Consignment Shop, Kids
WINNER: 529 Kids Consign
Why pay full price for clothing your kids will outgrow soon? This store sells gently used children’s attire and maternity outfits. The boutique is particular about the brands it consigns (think Janie and Jack, Kissy Kissy, and Ralph Lauren Baby) to ensure both quality and cuteness. 122 S. Royal St., Alexandria; 105 Loudoun St. SW, Leesburg
RUNNER-UP: Lemon Lane Consignment
246 W. Broad St., Falls Church
Furniture
WINNER: Belfort Furniture
This family-owned store can help you transform your living space. Its 150,000-square-foot location has more than 300 sofas and sectionals on display (and offers complimentary wine while you shop). Need a little style assistance? Belfort has free design services to help you personalize your space. 22250 Shaw Rd., Sterling
RUNNER-UP: The Nest Egg
11940 Grand Commons Ave., Fairfax
Independent Bookstore
WINNER: Bards Alley
This indie bookstore is on a mission to bring readers together in one community. Don’t hesitate to ask for a book recommendation — everybody there loves to read. Bards Alley regularly hosts Virginia authors and has 10 book clubs so you can find readers with interests similar to yours. 110 Church St. NW, Vienna
RUNNER-UP: Old Town Books
130 S. Royal St., Alexandria
Jewelry
WINNER: Ketterman’s Jewelers
This Leesburg jewelry store, in business since 1988, is where you find the quintessential wedding band, engagement ring, or “Yes, I still love you” jewelry piece. The family-run business cleans and repairs jewelry. If you want to redesign a family heirloom, Ketterman’s will custom design it for you. 212 Catoctin Cir. SE, Leesburg
RUNNER-UP: Washington Diamond
1245 W. Broad St., Falls Church
Lingerie
WINNER: Trousseau
A bra that fits perfectly makes a difference in how you look and feel. This shop specializes in getting that fit just right, whether it’s an everyday bra, sports bra, sexy bralette, or elegant strapless. Plus, it has tasteful lingerie and fun PJs. 306 Maple Ave. W., Vienna
RUNNER-UP: Best Rack Around
454 Madison Trade Plz. SE, Leesburg
Outdoor Shopping District
WINNER: Mosaic District
Sip and shop, catch an artsy film, or get your nails painted a raging red at this fun-filled Merrifield town center. After hunting for deals in 30-plus stores, dine at your choice of more than three dozen eateries. And stick around for one of the many community events the district hosts. 2905 District Ave., Fairfax
RUNNER-UP: Fairfax Corner
4100 Monument Corner Dr., Fairfax
Record Store
WINNER: Mobius Records
The art of the album is alive at this mom-and-pop shop. You’ll find new releases and records that have been re-released, as well as collectibles, Audio-Technica turntables, replacement styluses, and other accessories. The shop also cleans your old LPs.10409 Main St., Ste. D, Fairfax
RUNNER-UP: DIG Records & Vintage
212C Loudoun St. SE, Leesburg
Vintage Clothing Boutique
WINNER: Nostalgia
For some, vintage fashion evokes memories. For others, it’s a chance to give classic items new life. At this boutique in an 1880s house, owner Silas Redd handpicks every item. For him, the elegance and taste of the past tells a story. Not sure what to wear for an event? Nostalgia offers personal shopping services. 142 E. Main St., Purcellville
RUNNER-UP: Muz & Rose
3 Loudoun St. SW, Leesburg
Vintage Home Finds/Antiques
WINNER: Vintage Magnolia
Consignment vendors sell treasures they’ve found (everything from milk glass and estate jewelry to marble-tabled dressers and antique quilts) at this former motel. Vintage Magnolia also boasts a collection of one-of-a-kind custom furniture made from old doors and reclaimed wood. 19487 James Monroe Hwy., Leesburg
RUNNER-UP: Nostalgia
142 E. Main St., Purcellville
Feature image of Mosaic District courtesy Edens
This story originally ran in our June issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
