American in Paris: An Old Town Icon Gets a Renewed Look

My mother first opened American In Paris in 1996 and after her passing, I knew I wanted to continue her legacy. I spent most of my formative years in Northern Virginia but once I discovered a love of fashion, design, and styling, I took off to travel and live around the world pursuing a career as a stylist. My time in Paris is what inspired my mother and me to open up American In Paris. Small boutiques with up and coming brands weren’t as popular then as they are now, so we opened the store and soon after, my career took off. My mom, Joelle, remained at the helm of American In Paris.  

When I first started my career, I was a buyer for a boutique in Paris which eventually led to consulting on designs as well. Later, as a stylist and costume designer, I’d travel around the world for global campaign productions. Throughout my travels, I would discover — and of course bring home — pieces that felt unique, that had a sense of time and place.

It is this global sensibility and feeling of finding something “special” that I hope to bring to American In Paris. You’ll find a curated assortment of independent brands as well as our own eponymous label featuring items designed by me and suitable for women across all life moments and ages (timeless silk blouses, wrinkle-proof leisure sets for busy, on-the-go women, easy dresses for hot summer days). 

We’ll also be introducing bespoke services later this spring, collaborating with designers and makers to bring a custom shopping experience to Northern Virginia. (For those who have been with us since the boutique’s earlier years, you can still expect a variety of women’s apparel and accessories for day-to-night dressing that you’ve come to love.). 

We’re hosting a spring preview & trunk show on Tuesday, March 26th from 6-8pm, with resort wear and new spring arrivals. RSVP HERE. It’s the perfect opportunity to find an item before setting off on a spring break holiday. Discover a new spring wardrobe staple, explore accessories from some of our favorite South American makers, or just mingle with other women over wine and refreshments (sourced locally, of course). 

And yes, you can touch the clothing (if you know, you know!).  

I hope to see you there. With gratitude and love,

Alex

P.S.: If you attend the event and mention that you read this STYLEBOOK article, you’ll get 10% off your purchase. 

Alexandra Alvarez de Toledo

Founder & Creative Director | American In Paris

American in Paris first opened its doors on Upper King Street in 1996 in Old Town Alexandria; fast becoming an oasis for one-of-a-kind vintage accessories and niche European designers. A second-generation family business now led by Founder & Creative Director Alexandra Alvarez de Toledo, designer, stylist, and wardrobe consultant. Alex sources and produces trend-forward creations along with timeless wardrobe staples suitable for women of all ages. A collective of apparel, accessories, and gifts curated from throughout Alex’s global travels, American In Paris is also the flagship location for the store’s eponymous label designed by Alex.

Aipstore.com

American In Paris Boutique

1225 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314 | +1 703.470.8556 | @loveaipstore

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