Welcome to Racked DC where we dig deep into the retail world and let you know about the latest happenings in fashion and shopping. Know of something interesting coming to town? Send the news into our tipline.
CHINATOWN—Saturday, April 13 may seem a while from now, but it's not too early to get tickets to 2013 Fashion For Paws Runway Show. Supporting the Washington Humane Society, sponsors and guests will be treated to adorable animals and fierce fashion at the National Building Museum. Ashlan Gorse of E! News will be the host for the event. [Official Site; Curbed Inbox]
DMV—First Lady Michelle Obama's fashion trends are still making waves. Since appearing on the cover of Vogue for the April issue the local jewelry store Tiny Jewel Box has seen a surge in requests for the earrings she wears in the photo. A rep for the store tells Curbed they immediately began receiving calls for a very similar piece they carry by S&R Designs. [Vogue; OfficialSite]
FARRAGUT SQUARE—The long awaited Nordstrom Rack is set to bring downtown shoppers deals starting Thursday, April 18. The store is at the corner of 18th & L. Ready, set, shop. [PoP]
DUPONT CIRCLE—Middleburg clothing and accessories store Lou Lou is opening the first DC clothing boutique in Dupont Circle. The Connecticut Avenue shop will be practically neighbors with its accessories store. [Official Site; WBJ]
MT VERNON SQUARE—Gilt City is coming to DC's Long View Gallery this weekend for the Gilt City DC Warehouse Sale. Prices are lashed up to 90% off of retail prices, and the sale starts Friday and ends Saturday night. There will be a DJ, drinks, and a lot of fun at the pop-up. Tickets for the event are still available for Saturday afternoon. [Official Site; Curbed Inbox]
DMV—Saks is making sure its elite customers are taken care of. The high-end department stores in Tysons and Chevy Chase are making its selection larger to cater to its clientele. In Tysons, it's men's floor is being updated with art because area guys are "hungry for a larger range of elevated men's fashions". And in Chevy Chase, it's become a shoe lovers paradise with more than 1,200 styles ready to be shown off. [Capitol File]
CAPITOL HILL—Alloro, the line of fashion for women who have survived breast cancer, is launching its line with a trunk show on March 21-22 from 11am-8pm at Tabula Rasa. Started by Laurel Kamen, the line is designed to "flatter [breast cancer survivors'] post-operative figures — whether they chose reconstructive surgery, prosthetics or nothing". [WaPo]