As seen in Loudoun Now's "Get Out Loudoun" publication.
The holidays are approaching, the gift list is growing and it’s no fun ordering it all on Amazon. Put away the virtual shopping basket
and shop Loudoun.
Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets still bring in the crowds, the perfect stop for Michael Kors haute couture and bargains on Burberry or Tory Burch bags. Opening this Fall is a new Design Within Reach outlet and a DKNY. The rebuild of its pedestrian walkway (with firepit) will give the complex a new lease of life in time for holiday sales.
Glitzy lifestyle precinct One Loudoun is the new HQ of Sterling Restaurant Supply where you can stock up on all tableware needs for a holiday dinner, as well as Ashburn designer Asma Zaka’s bridal boutique ZAKAA. Ideal location really, given DC’s Wine Country is such a booming East Coast wedding destination.
After the big box store mayhem of Black Friday, visit Loudoun’s historic downtowns and rural villages on Small Business Saturday to find great hidden gems. Head to Leesburg’s King Street, which has seen a slate of new shop openings, Brick and Mortar being an instant favorite. An upscale urban goods and guy-friendly gift store, pick up everything from retro Crosley record players to ironic accoutrements such as Willie Nelson coffee beans. The Sunflower Shack next door is just as fun with an eclectic collection of clothing, vintage board games, witty greetings cards and a treasure trove of custom made old-school sweet treats.
Antique lovers can head north of town on Route 15 to Rust & Feathers, or to the beloved multi-story curiosity shop, Old Lucketts Store.
Photo via Virginia Tourism Corporation
South of Leesburg, visit Middleburg’s Washington St, lined with classy boutiques and quirky gift stores. Pick up a tailored suit at Highcliffe Clothiers, or a cashmere cocktail dress at Duchessa. The nearby Fun Shop and Christmas Sleigh sell hunt country accessories and home décor.
You’ve not truly shopped Loudoun however until you’ve gone native. Purchase local wines, beer, whisky, bread, goat cheese, jams, handcrafted goods – sheep’s wool gloves, hats, scarves – from a myriad of wineries, breweries, farm stores and farmers markets, part of the #TakeLoudounHome initiative.
Get an early start on the local art and crafts scene at the Purcellville Artisan Tour (November 2nd - 3rd) where stops include the new Purcellville Arts Gallery showcasing numerous painting, sculptures and locally made goods. Between studio visits, sip a seasonal ale at Belly Love Brewing or pre-order your entire Thanksgiving family dinner from Magnolias at the Mill.
In other words, shop ‘til you drop – or at least until you’ve crossed off all items on your gift list.