Planning a road trip? Looking for that special something, but on a budget, or need some fresh inspiration? We asked our contributors to share their favorite boutiques, with just one catch: the business could not be in Alexandria. Here are our picks: 

Elizabeth: This one is a hard one for me. I oddly am not someone that enjoys shopping. I would never go spend a day at a mall. But when I travel I do love going to see other stores. I find inspiration (sometimes extreme envy) and most of the time I never try anything on if it is a clothing store but I love seeing how things are curated and displayed. Last year I got to visit one of my favorite follows on Instagram, Kick Pleat, in Houston, Texas. It lived up to my expectations. It actually exceeded them. It is so well done and so beautiful. I can’t wait to get back and visit again.

Katelin: My favorite small business is in Chestertown, MD! It’s called Bohemia Trading Company. They have cute comfortable shoes, modern clothes, fun jewelry, and an assortment of other little fun things! I always go when I’m in Chestertown visiting friends! 

Britt: My friend Allison is from Valdosta, GA , and turned me onto Perfect Settings. I find amazing things for my tablescaping habit there! And, one of my favorite e-commerce stores, Mulberry & King, just opened a brick-and-mortar in Mount Plesant, SC. I’m obsessed with them because most items are $120 or less.

Adrien: I love Vert and Vogue! They carry high quality pieces that have a style I can pull off. They carry pieces I wouldn’t have known existed otherwise, too! Currently, I have two pairs of boots I’ve had from them for several years. Every year Don at Old Town Luggage and Shoe Repair “spiffies” them up so they look new each time I step out.

Stylebook Team: If you know anything about Manhattan-ites, you know that they know where to find one-of-a-kind style. If you’re in the mood to channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw or Samantha Jones, be sure to check out What Goes Around Comes Around, a boutique that features curated, elevated, and vintage luxury pieces. If your style leans more toward the quirk of Phoebe Buffay, take a stroll to Swords-Smith in Williamsburg, or Vintage Twin and Flying Solo in SoHo. Trust me- you’ll never show up to an event and have to worry if someone’s wearing your outfit when you shop at these boutiques!

Have a question for our contributors? Tell us what you’d like to know!