WASHINGTON — Attention all floral fanatics, lace lovers and jumpsuit junkies: this summer, the popular online retailer ModCloth is expanding beyond the browser and bringing its vintage-inspired collection to a brick-and-mortar shop in Georgetown.
The pop-up is part of ModCloth’s multicity IRL (In Real Life) tour, which takes the brand to a different destination each month. Elizabeth Cooksey, ModCloth’s vice president of stores, is aware the switch from online to in-person is “a bit atypical” in a time when many retailers are doing the opposite, but says the in-person stores give the brand a chance to “create a further enhanced and further dimensionalized opportunity for our customers to get to know us.”
The ModCloth shop will open at 1626 Wisconsin Ave. NW (the former home of Urban Chic) on Friday, June 10 (grand opening events are planned throughout the weekend) and will stick around through June 25.
In addition to the brand’s beloved blazers, dresses and weekend wear, Cooksey says shoppers can expect to find swimwear and ModCloth’s brand-new bridal line. Brides-to-be can book a one-hour appointment with a stylist. Walk-ins will also be able to try on the short and long gowns.
“We’ll be in an area in Georgetown that seems to be pretty bridal and special-occasion dominated, so I think we’re going to be perfectly curated, sitting among other nearby shops,” Cooksey said.
And just like the ModCloth’s online store, which launched almost 15 years ago, shoppers will have access to a range of sizes — from XS to 4X. It’s a feature that’s earned the e-tailer some positive accolades — and a whole lot of customers.
“We really champion the philosophy of inclusivity and including all women within the ModCloth community,” Cooksey said. “Our focus is on body positivity and making every woman feel inspired and beautiful and special, no matter the size she wears, no matter her body shape. Her personal style is very important to us.”
The store will also stock a small curated vintage collection, as well as home décor items and accessories, some of which are from D.C.-based artists and designers.
Just don’t expect to come home with amazing attire the same day you shop. Patrons can try on all of the showcased items in the store, but any purchases made will be shipped to customers, free of charge.
