A Gentlemans Guide To Looking Good In Washington D.C.

Being a guy in Washington, D.C. can be a double-edged sword. On one side, you’re in the nation’s capital, consistently voted one of the fittest cities in the country. On the other hand, you’re living in the nation’s capital, consistently voted one of the fittest cities in the country. Competition can be stiff. But here’s a simple guide to looking good in Washington, D.C.

Suits for the Go-Getter

The first place to start when building your D.C. wardrobe is owning a sharp suit. D.C.’s dress code isn’t exactly contemporary, so a suit with some style is an easy way to stand out in the crowd.

Bonobos

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This D.C. shop has several locations around the District. You can find anything from neon swim trunks to a finely tailored suit. This high-end shopping experience allows you to cultivate a style all of your own.

J.Press Inc

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A menswear staple since the ’80s, J.PRESS does made-to-measure suits and will sharply dress you for any occasion. This boutique is perfect for the traditionalist. It offers a wide variety of styles, fabrics, and cuts. If you subscribe to the notion that you dress for the job you want, not the one you have, this might be your move.

Working for the Weekend

Not into suits? Feel suffocated by even the idea of a tie? We understand. Get comfy with these picks.

Joint Custody

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For the anti-establishment types, Joint Custody, a trendy vintage store located in the U Street corridor, is the place for you. Not only does Joint Custody provide vintage clothes, but they also have an impressive selection of electronics and old records.

Chubbies DC

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In the summer months, Chubbies lives by one motto: skies out, thighs out. Originally a men’s shorts retailer, Chubbies now makes all sorts of party clothes. The prices are pretty fair, and the styles, covered in bright patterns and colors, are very fun. You’ll find the perfect flamingo-printed short sleeve button up in the swanky shopping district. That seven-inch inseam is calling your name.

Accessories Maketh the Man

Shinola Logan Circle Store

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It all comes down to the small details when dressing sharp in D.C. Shinola started as a watch factory in Detroit. Now, the Washington, D.C. store carries handcrafted, American-made watches, bicycles, and leather goods. It is a perfect spot to pick up a conversation piece that will complete any outfit.

About the author

Kirsten Ballard

Kirsten was born in North Carolina and moved to Washington, D.C. in 2015. She received a BA in Journalism and Mass Communication and a minor in Creative Writing from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She has worked for newspapers, women's magazines and food publications. Currently, she works at a newspaper trade association. In her free time, she's running, reading and eating her way around DC.