Dedicated Shoppers Flock to District Sample Sale

A fashionista, I am not. There. I said it. Since beginning my position as editor at Georgetown Patch, I have begun to realize that Banana Republic, nice though it may be, is not what the fashion conscious consider a must-have label. I did not fully understand the commitment some women had to fashion until I attended the District Sample Sale Sept. 16.

From the girlfriend who flew in from CA just to shop with her fbff (fashion best friend forever) to the woman wearing a killer dress, one high heel and a cast on her other foot, these ladies were committed to their shopping. I clearly had something to learn.

Anna Howard of Old Town, VA joked that she bought the VIP tickets instead of General Admission because "I'm an overachiever." Her shopping companion, Kari Miglaw of CA came to D.C. "just for this" event. Howard asked if I, too, was a "junkie." Sheepishly, I said no. The two friends carry on a bi-coastal fashion companionship, emailing one another suggestions for outfits for upcoming events or mailing dog-eared catalogs with "this is so you" written on several pages.

Near the front of the the General Admissions line, Genny Sears waited for two friends to join her for a night of shopping. Sears moved to the D.C. area just five weeks ago and found out about the sale while looking for ways to get involved in her new community. The District Sample Sale was Sears's first shopping trip to Georgetown.

Three friends stood together sharing umbrellas and waiting for their chance at a few bargains. Katherine Reuning of Clarendon said it was the first time any of them had been to the sale. Maria Kent of Potomac, MD added that they learned about the event because of a friend on the board. Gemma Sole of McLean said she had come right from work, "unhappily so," as she switched from walking-friendly flip-flops to bronze patent leather heals. 

Inside, the previously cavernous space buzzed with activity, competition and the exchange of cash for a prized new possession. As women ogled shoes, caressed leather bags and tried on dresses, there was little sign of a down economy. These ladies were out for deals, for sure, and willing to spend for a good (wardrobe) investment. From what I could tell, the event beneficiary, the Mammovan, has a nice check coming its way.