The Mosaic District has the feel of a small tourist town, but in Northern Virginia. It’s the kind of place you find when you go to the beach: open, small, with one main attraction. In this case, everything is centered around an indoor and outdoor theater. Stores and resturants are within walking distance from each other.
When you walk into Lou Lou, the first thing you notice is the amount of jewelry the store stocks. There are statement pieces for the girl who wants to stand out or more understated jewelry for those who prefer simplicity. It’s a one-stop shop for any accessory a girl might want or need, where you’d think things should cost more than they do.
For those of you who are looking for brand names in fashion like Neiman Marcus, Last Call is the place for you. The clothes there are a little pricey, but it’s not as bad with their sales, which go from 30 to 50 percent off. This is especially helpful during prom season, as you can find what you need —dress, shoes and accessories to pull together the outfit—in one store. Half the store is entirely devoted to men, focusing on dress shirts, shoes and ties. The only downside to this store is that they do not discount most accessories.
I wouldn’t call myself a crafter, but when I went into Paper Source, even I got inspired to try my hand at crafting something. Lauren Kowalski, an associate at the store, wants to help people flesh out their ideas and do what it takes to make them happen.
“I like to be able to see everything and talk to people and a small space lends itself to that,” Kowalski said.
Along with their products, Paper Source offers services like hosting parties or workshops. They will also giftwrap and create stationery.
When I went inside some of the stores, it was hard for me to navigate my wheelchair because of the limited space, but I didn’t mind because there were a lot of things to look at. This is a great place to go if you like would like to hang out on a Friday night somewhere else besides the tired old mall scene.