Tucked into a petite yellow clapboard house on the edge of Crystal City, where the 23rd Street businesses segue into residential blocks, you’ll find Agents in Style, an upscale women’s consignment boutique run by Rhoda Wheeler.
The former real estate marketing professional opened her shop last fall after noticing that the space was available for rent. “I live in the neighborhood; I saw this small Victorian home and knew what I could do with it,” says the Arlington Ridge resident. “I’ve been an image consultant and stylist for 15 years and I have a side business helping people audit their closets as they enter different stages of their lives, both personally and professionally.”
Wheeler classifies her boutique as “luxury” consignment, meaning she prioritizes the high-end stuff—timeless handbags from Louis Vuitton and Chanel, office-chic separates from Lafayette 148 and Oscar de la Renta, party dresses from DVF and Ted Baker. A recent visit turned up a strappy sundress from Mara Hoffman and a handful of unworn jeweled ballet flats from Miu Miu.
Shoppers can also find midrange items that appeal to a younger professional crowd from brands such as J.Crew, Banana Republic, Lilly Pulitzer and Theory.
Most consigned pieces are either current (within the past two years) or classic, and Wheeler strives to be size-inclusive. She also stocks her shelves with brand-new items from independent women designers—including jewelry by local makers Julie Katz, Sharon Baker and Diane Clark—as well as of-the-moment accessories and wardrobe must-haves.
Can’t get there in person? Wheeler says the Agents in Style website is fully shoppable and is updated regularly with her newest finds. Follow the store’s Instagram, Facebook and Twitter feeds for the latest merch, online shopping and shipping/delivery options.