Sleepless in Alexandria: Our contributors are staying up way too late — and loving it. See what shows and books are stealing their sleep this summer!

Award-winning country artist Steven Cade stopped by Carpenter’s Shelter to share stories, music, and hope — and to gift a guitar that could inspire the next voice of change.

It’s that time of year—when the red pens come out and we start slashing prices. This week, all clothing moves to 60 percent off, and while the racks are starting to clear out, one thing remains stacked: the shoes. So, we’re going full warehouse pricing on them. And trust us, there are some incredible finds.

It’s Christmas in July at Mystique! Whether you’re treating yourself or investing in heirloom-worthy sparkle, now’s the time to make memories that shimmer. From timeless treasures to last-chance steals, enjoy up to 20% off July 10–19. Because summer magic looks even better in gold.

As the world’s best players compete on the iconic grass courts of the All England Club, many of us find ourselves inspired to pick up a racket…or at least daydream about playing a match in a spectacular setting. Whether you’re an avid tennis player or simply love the idea of court-side living, here are four extraordinary properties that bring the Wimbledon lifestyle home.

This summer, stay glowing (not sweaty) with our favorite suncare picks and a dreamy pool day at MGM National Harbor. Grab a spa day pass via ResortPass, and enjoy exclusive access to The Spa & Salon’s full suite of amenities—think steam rooms, Roman hot tubs, plush lounges, and more.

As any seasoned procrastinator knows, there's a certain magic in the scramble. The kind that forces bold decisions, spontaneous moves, and just the right amount of chaos to bring the work to life. I tend to put a lot of pressure on myself, but life always seems to up the ante on its own. I don’t fight it anymore. I’ve learned to embrace it.

Whether you’re chasing sunsets or grandkids, sightseeing with friends, or planning family vacation, travel should feed your soul, not fry your spine. But for many of us, long flights, bumpy car rides, and hotel mattresses that feel like medieval torture devices can take a toll on our spines. Here's how to arrive feeling fabulous, not like you need a vacation from your vacation.

Frank & Eileen just launched the Eileen Ruffle Shirt in lightweight denim. The Montecito Sweater in white flew off our shelves last time, so we’ve restocked it in a beautiful eucalyptus hue and added a new style: the Cotswolds Cardigan, which makes me want to summer somewhere breezy where sweaters are a nighttime essential.

Meet Melissa Riddy: a born-and-raised Alexandrian whose deep local roots, community service, and family-first mindset keep her grounded—whether she’s advocating for healthcare access, leading a nonprofit board, or hitting the ski slopes with her daughters.

Meet Lucy von Fahnestock of Together We Bake — the powerhouse nonprofit equipping women with job training, life skills, and confidence through the power of baking and belonging. From humble beginnings to a bold 2030 vision, Lucy shares how the Alexandria-based program is helping women reclaim their futures—one chocolate chip cookie at a time.

Tibi is the brand that makes even skirt skeptics fall in love. My all-time favorite is the Trouser Skirt, especially in tropical wool. Sure, it’s too warm for right now, but come September, you won’t want to take it off. We also picked up the Slip Skirt and the Bubble Skirt—perfect for right now and easy to dress up or down.

 If there’s one thing we hear constantly from our couples and clients, it’s how hard it is to find the *perfect* event space in Old Town—something stylish and unique, in a prime location, with great food and views. Well, friends, we’re thrilled to share a new hidden gem that checks *all* the boxes: Cooper Mill.

Let’s face it, most of us put off estate planning. Then life changes. You get divorced. And in the middle of everything else—custody arrangements, moving, paperwork—your estate planning documents often fall through the cracks. But what really happens if you don’t update them?

According to Sotheby’s latest Luxury Outlook Report, we are in the midst of a Luxury Renaissance, where affluent buyers make decisions based not on external status symbols, but on personal meaning. Whether in real estate, fashion, or travel, luxury today is about lifestyle alignment—how possessions and experiences reflect who you really are.

Summer in the DMV means sunshine, sweat, and serious humidity—and while we love a good beach day or rooftop brunch, our hair doesn’t always share the vibe. Whether you’re air-drying, pool-hopping, or frizz-fighting, these five stylist-approved tips will keep your hair looking and feeling its best all summer long.

The pre-fall delivery is always a favorite from Ulla Johnson. If you asked me why, I’d say it’s because it’s the most “buy-now, wear-now” collection we get in June. The brand does a fantastic job of creating prints and fabrics that feel right for summer but easily transition into early fall.

Getting ready to move? Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or just relocating across town, here’s how to take the stress out of your move — with expert organizing tips from our team to keep things smooth on both ends.

From cross-country moves and art school rebellion to sailing adventures and soulful design—Kim of Patina shares her story of resilience, reinvention, and creating spaces filled with beauty, memory, and meaning.

Because of my journey, I now hold a space—a control room of sorts—where all are welcome. Even those with opposing views. I can hold that. I’ve made peace with that. My work, my mission, is to offer space for experience, healing, and authenticity.