Advice for Christmas Shopping in G’town

Street lamps hold lighted evergreens. Store fronts show off their seasonal gifts. Shoppers walk along in earnest. Skaters are enjoying the Washington Harbour ice rink. The surprising light show, Glow, has come and gone. Already lighted are the National Christmas Tree and National Chanukah Menorah and our neighbors’ outdoor lights and some of whose Christmas trees we can see shining through the window. Mom and dad have those popular gifts for their children. Choirs and places of worship are ready for the big day, and, of course, Santa Claus is coming to town.

Many families will be here for Christmas, but others depart to see in-laws, grandparents or friends on the ski slope or on the beach. For those of us in town, the village becomes quieter and easier to traverse — all the better to see all you have anew and at ease. It is indeed a special time of year.

It’s always fun shopping in Georgetown. The historic streets, the beautiful holiday décor and the large shop windows—all outdoors to keep you in the Christmas spirit. Here is a quick shopping list for Georgetowners and visitors alike.

Begin with a great cup of coffee at Peacock Cafe, Saturday and Sunday; open at 9 a.m., or at Dean & Deluca, open daily. Or, on the east side, at Baked & Wired, grab a latte and some “Hippy Crack” granola.

Another suggestion is to go all in — to the Four Seasons: valet your car and proceed to either the Seasons power breakfast scene or go to Le Pain Quotidien (LPQ) for a cappuccino and a snack to warm up before you shop — locally, we prefer, but it is all good.

Shopping for Her:

Amina Rubinacci – a new boutique by an Italian designer with top-notch quality clothing. This is truly a special spot.

M29 – ranging from Bohemian chic to preppy cool with plenty of stocking stuffers, too.

Ella Rue – vintage and contemporary one of a kind shop. Owners Krista and Alexa are especially helpful and super fun.

The Phoenix – this third-generation shop has been selling women’s fashion and unique items for the home since 1955.

Other local stores include Ann Hand, Hu’s and Hu’s Shoes, Charmed, Wink, Urban Chic and Relish.

National stores include Intermix, CoOp, Cusp, Kate Spade, Tory Burch, Calypso St. Barth, Alice & Olivia, Zara and Alex & Ani.

Shopping for Him:

Georgetown Tobacco – a Georgetown classic with the expected great selection of cigars and pipe tobacco; it offers beautiful men’s accessories, such as cufflinks.

Sterling & Burke – a British and American amazement for classy guys with a sense of style and history; exquisite leather goods, colognes, artwork and men’s accessories.

Everard’s Clothing – another classic with men’s suits and women’s outfits, etc.; the personal service is unrivaled.

Other local stores include American Holiday, Hugh & Crye, Hill & Dale.

National stores include Nike, Jack Spade, Jack Wills, Ralph Lauren, Patagonia, Gant, Brooks Brothers, North Face and Ike Behar.