District Sample Sale, Bargains in the Old Basement

Ever wondered what it would be like if all of the best area boutiques, all of the most delicious bites, and all of the most stylish people converged in one place for the sole purpose of sipping, splurging, and raising money for charity? Tuesday’s District Sample Sale shoppers wonder no more — and have the receipts, photos and blow-outs to prove it!

The space formerly known as Filene’s Basement at Mazza Gallerie was transformed into a treasure trove of fabulous finds, frenzied fashionistas, and fantastic food as local boutiques like Muleh, Queen Bee Designs, Periwinkle and Imagine Fashion Apothecary offered all sorts of finery for bargain hunters looking for the season’s biggest steals.
Shoppers were treated to snacks from Georgetown Cupcake, Rosa Mexicano, Black and Orange, among others–and specialty Svedka cocktails. Nectar Skin Bar offered polish changes, eyebrow shaping, and makeup touchups, while PR @ Partners provided blowouts and curl tutorials. And for those fashionistas feeling guilty about all of the nights noshing and nibbling, Equinox gym was performing demonstrations and raffling off free gym memberships.
Some of the best scores of the night: Cori Sue Morris snagged a sassy black and white striped frock, Nina Snow scored an armload of dresses, Tara Papanicolas got decked out in Mona Assemi jewelry, and we couldn’t even find Wendy Gordon underneath all of her shopping bags. Also spotted amongst the stylish set were DSS founders Jayne Sandman and Barbara Martin of BrandlinkDC, Mary Amons of Labels for Love, Lynda Erkiletian of THE Arrtost Agency and Shannon Haley.
And lest you think all of this shopping was simply in pursuit of entering the Fall season incredibly á la mode, proceeds from the event benefitted The Sitar Arts Center, proving that giving back to the community is always in style.