Retail Therapy in Logan Circle

More often that I’m willing to admit, I indulge in a little retail therapy in the neighborhood. My leisurely circuit loops 14th and U Streets, starting around 14th and P and going about as far northwest as 16th and U.

I like to tell myself (and, apparently, anyone who will listen) that I’m fairly un-superficial and budget-minded. Those two attributes aren’t necessarily associated with Logan Circle, and unfortunately, my lustful eye gravitates towards pricey modern furniture (see: Vastu, Millennium, RKCNDY) and boutique wares (see: Redeem, Nana, Home Rule, Shoefly).

Back to that budget thing: My justification for regular window-shopping is that I rarely actually buy anything at full price. It takes patience, sure, but scouring the sale racks is fun. Because though I can’t afford stocking up on $90 tees, I can afford the occasional $18 skirt marked way down or a $24 price-slashed top. And I pretend like I’m gleaning inspiration for my DIY-er within from the full-price goods.

Now, the saving grace of all the spendy neighborhood boutiques used to be Pop. Up the stairs next to Pulp and Garden District, Pop stocked a decent selection of well-priced, stylish clothes. And they had a men’s section, meaning I could drag Noah along. But alas, Pop closed this past August, leaving a gaping vacancy in my usual circuit.

Happily, there’s a silver lining to this sad saga. A new clothing boutique called Rue 14 recently moved into Pop’s old spot, which we dutifully checked out this past weekend. A newsboy hat for Noah and cute jacket for me later, we were ready to declare the outing a success.

A long ramble short, I’m psyched the prime location got snapped up quickly by another worthy shop—most importantly, by one that’s not so expensive it has to keep its doors locked during business hours (I’m looking at you, Circle Boutique).

Photo via Flickr