We are all recovering from Thanksgiving, and maybe you’re reading this after a big day of hitting the mall and all the big-box stores, looking for something to do this Saturday that feels a little less intense. If that is you, I have a recommendation: stop by the stores of Old Town for Small Business Saturday.

It is hard to believe that this is the 15th year we have done Plaid Friday. I will always know exactly when we started because the year prior, 2009, Danielle of fibre space called me and asked me to participate, along with a handful of other stores. That was the last time I traveled out of town for Thanksgiving.

This holiday season, we once again asked Lauren Bishop to sponsor Plaid Friday—the small business community's answer to competing with the big-box stores on Black Friday. Check out her guide to make the most of your Plaid Friday!

Eliana Curated just dropped their 2025 Holiday Gift Guide, and it’s already sending local shoppers into a frenzy. From vintage designer treasures to waterproof everyday essentials and luxurious gold pieces, this guide is basically a cheat sheet for winning holiday gifting.

It used to be that sets were reserved for more casual looks—and of course, there are still great casual sets (I live in them). But these days, there are so many great dressy options, especially skirt-and-top combinations. There really are so many great sets at all price points, and for every occasion.

This year is proving that once again the “transition” season deliveries are the best deliveries. The Ulla Johnson delivery we just unpacked is a perfect example. Every piece can be worn right now, but can also take you into spring and even summer.

 Meet Stephanie Bibighaus, the new Executive Director at The Alexandria Police Foundation — and a woman who’s turned personal loss into purpose. From her Pentagon days to championing K-9 heroes, Stephanie reminds us that style, service, and heart often go hand in hand. 

Lots of things have changed about our stores since we first opened, but one thing that stands out is how much I’ve learned as a buyer. Over 22 years, I’d like to think I’ve gotten better at understanding what our customers love most.

If you’ve ever wandered through a holiday market and felt the magic, the twinkling lights, the scent of cider, the cozy bustle, you probably weren’t thinking about what it took to build each booth. Which is exactly the point.

I don’t want to speak too soon, but it seems like I might break the pattern of menswear stores opening and closing within a few years in Old Town. It’s difficult to make something new and unique because no one even knows to look for it, but once people find out about it, the wheels start turning.

The holidays conjure up feelings of decadence. A festive season that commands our most dazzling ensembles, accessorized with our most radiant jewelry. And while we love to dazzle and delight (we sell diamonds, of course!)...at Mystique, we believe it’s always time to sparkle. 

It might surprise you, but transition season deliveries are some of the best. The selections are tightly edited, and the pieces are often those you can wear for more than one season. Our first shipments just arrived, and they’re as good as I remember.

 Local author Brittany Mazique turned grief into creativity, transforming her love of storytelling into a thriving career writing children’s books for Disney and beyond. Read how this Alexandria mom balances family life, creative work, and the joy of helping all girls feel seen and celebrated.

If you’ve shopped with us over the years, you probably already know that the one line we’ve carried since opening our doors in 2003 is Attilio Giusti Leombruni, now known simply as AGL. Not only are their shoes incredibly comfortable, but the team behind them has been a joy to work with for more than 22 years.

As a child of the ’80s, I grew up obsessing over Ralph Lauren ads and that effortlessly elegant, all-American look that felt both timeless and aspirational. Ann Mashburn captures that same spirit with a fresh, modern twist that makes every piece feel relevant today.

Meet Jane Collins—a woman who’s redefining what it means to start over. Once an Air Force Colonel, now a model and makeup artist, she’s channeling her passion into helping women regain their confidence and embrace their next chapter with style and purpose.

Create your story in gold. Eliana Curated introduces Nomination, the world-famous Italian jewelry brand making its Alexandria debut. Build your own Composable® bracelet link by link—each one a memory, a milestone, a moment that matters.

We’re feeling 22! 🎉 Join us as we celebrate 22 years of The Shoe Hive with 22% off everything, a special artist pop-up, and a heartfelt thank-you to the community that made it all possible.

Channel timeless, preppy perfection with fall favorites from Ann Mashburn — from Fair Isle sweaters to leopard prints and the jacket you’ll wear all season long. Plus, shop the exclusive trunk show at The Hive November 6–9 and save 20%!

I think I’ve finally found it—the perfect tee! After years of trying different brands, Sold Out NYC checks every box: flattering fit, amazing quality, and colors you’ll actually wear. We just unpacked a full selection, plus a few of their gorgeous sweaters and silk tops. Come see why we’re officially obsessed!