19 Best Shopping in Washington, D.C., USA

The name is Italian for "by hand," and it lives up to this moniker, stocking colorful hand-painted ceramics, hand-dyed tablecloths, blown-glass stemware, hand-embroidered bed linens, and other home and garden accessories by American, English, Italian, and French artisans. Some of the jewelry pieces are simply stunning, and the kids' gifts are adorable. You can also get certain items monogrammed on-site.

Catering to Washington's influential and prestigious, this jewelry and gift shop specializing in patriotic pins may seem intimidating, but prices begin at $35. Hand's signature pin, the Liberty Eagle, is $200. Photos on the walls above brightly lit display cases show the city's most prominent figures wearing their designs, making this a worthwhile visit while shopping in Georgetown.

If you're looking for statement jewelry or just want to admire wearable art, add Jewelers' Werk Galerie to your list. Owner Ellen Reiben personally curates an eclectic collection made by artists from around the globe. 

This gem of a consignment–thrift store has been a Georgetown landmark since 1954, with volunteers who have been with the store for more than 40 years. You'll find gorgeous fine jewelry, antiques, crystal, silver, and porcelain. Prices are moderate, and profits go to a good cause—the Christ Child Society provides for the needs of local children.

All under one roof (with 30 solar panels) in a delightful shop owned and operated by the Hays family since 1955, you can find contemporary clothing in natural fibers by global designers such as Eileen Fisher, OSKA, White+Warren, Michael Stars, and Lilla P. There's also a stunning selection of jewelry from Germany, Turkey, Israel, and Italy; gorgeous leather handbags by Annabel Ingall; floral arrangements from a sustainable farm in Virginia; and fine- and folk-art pieces from Mexico.

Stunning, large-scale contemporary work by national and local artists, including painters Manon Cleary and Wolf Kahn and photographer Frank Hallam Day, is exhibited at this well-respected gallery, which is closed both Sunday and Monday. You can also schedule an appointment.

This charming independent store focuses on politics, history, philosophy, poetry, literature, music, film, and Judaica. First opened in 1980, it's a long-standing independent store in the neighborhood.

From ornate mirrors to unique furniture pieces, Cote Jardin has a wide selection of antiques. Located in a town house on O Street, the display will give you inspiration for your home decor.

Although it's a small shop, you'll find a wonderful selection of high-end consignment clothing, shoes, and handbags here. In addition to consignment, they also offer ready-to-wear pieces. On any given day, you might discover pieces by designers like Carolina Herrera, Gucci, Stella McCartney, or Zac Posen. The staff is especially helpful and works hard to help you find the perfect ensemble for your next special event or important meeting.

There's a good mix of retailers at this mall in the center of Georgetown, including Anthropologie & Co. (which has floors devoted to housewares and bridal), H&M, J. Crew, and T.J. Maxx. Stop at the Georgetown Visitor Center inside the main entrance to learn about what's happening in the neighborhood. You can even try your hand at bocce or bowling at Pinstripes, a bistro and entertainment spot with a wonderful patio. Grab macaroons at locally owned Olivia Macaroons.

One thing you will notice in Georgetown is the abundance of runners. If you feel inspired to run, check out Georgetown Running Company, a store dedicated to the sport. Their staff are all runners and offer free gait analysis to determine the best running shoe for you.

The popular New York City nail salon GLOSSLAB opened an outpost in Georgetown. Their sleek and modern nail studios are a great place to stop in for a quick, efficient, and clean mani-pedi before shopping, exploring the sights, or grabbing a bite.

House and garden accessories are in the mix here, but the emphasis is on 18th- and 19th-century French and Swedish painted furniture, sourced by the owner on yearly buying trips to Europe. Find unique art, mirrors, and sculptures here.

This gallery is devoted to glass, metal, and ceramics. It's worth a look to see the work by some of the world's finest contemporary artists. The intimate, bright space is owned and managed by the daughter of Harvey K. Littleton, founder of the American Studio Glass movement. The gallery is open by appointment only.

In fashionable Cady's Alley, this dramatic space holds a women's collection handpicked seasonally by the owner. Modern, elegant, and practical selections include European classics and well-tailored modern designers, such as Marc Jacobs, Pierre Hardy, Thom Browne, Uma Wang, and Dries Van Noten.

Stunning art draws people into this two-floor gallery, where a mix of vintage, contemporary, and classical paintings are hung salon-style. You'll find large abstract oils and a lovely selection of landscapes, but don't miss the box full of small original paintings in the back, most priced under $100.

Founded by local Bryn Mawr College alumnae, The Lantern is a shop for used and rare books run by volunteers. The profits of the sales go to the college to support students’ summer internships. Inside you can find an eclectic collection of books and rare magazines.