9 Best Places to Shop in Bethesda, Montgomery County

Across from Mazza Gallerie is the newer, similarly upmarket Chevy Chase Pavilion. Its women's clothing stores range from Alpaca International to JCrew and Stein Mart.

This mall is the latest addition to the luxurification of Friendship Heights, which now can claim Bulgari, Dior, Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, and Barney's Co-op as residents.

The Boston-based upscale fashion discounter attracts bargain hunters looking for steep discounts on designer clothing—if you find something that suits you, it'll be the best deal in town by far. Off-price shoes, children's clothing, household goods, perfume, and accessories are sold as well.

Inside this boutique are classic women's wear and children's clothes, gifts, and more from designers such as Lilly Pulitzer, Vera Bradley, and Vineyard Vines. But most of all Lemon Twist has been known for its customer service since 1977.

This four-level mall is anchored by the ritzy Neiman Marcus department store and the discounter Filene's Basement. Other draws include Williams-Sonoma's kitchenware and a seven-screen movie theater.

Stores in the county's largest mall include Crate & Barrel, Sears, and Nordstrom. Just off I–270 and I–495, it's not close to any metro stops.

Despite its New York origin and name, Saks is a Washington institution. It has a wide selection of European and American couture clothing; other attractions include the shoe, jewelry, fur, and lingerie departments.

From funky jackets and slacks to tailored business suits, this local shop specializes in items that wear and travel well.

Bloomingdale's, Lord & Taylor, and Borders Books & Music, plus 125 other stores, pull in the serious shoppers.