I love that the Mosaic District’s pop-up stores have become a proving ground for emerging and independent designers. They often offer an opportunity to meet the makers firsthand. Park Story, a long-term pop-up helmed by D.C.-based clothing designer Meghan Evans, is one such collective.
“People don’t realize that there’s a substantial clothing market in our region, that we’re a hub for up-and-coming designers,” says Evans, a 31-year-old former attorney who shifted her focus to fashion after customizing her own wardrobe to fit her personal style and long torso. “I’ve met so many people through design markets and trunk shows. This space is a chance for me to share their story with others.”
Visit the shop and you’ll feel like you’re in on one the area’s best-kept design secrets. Its tightly curated selection of women’s apparel includes local and independent brands such as Mimi Miller Womenswear, Virginia Dare Dress Co. and Maven Women. Evans’ eponymous label offers a seasonal capsule collection of skirts, tops and dresses in sizes 0 through 18 that she describes as “modern classics with a feminine touch.”
The space is decorated with pieces from local artists, including textural wall hangings from Remettage, globally chic pillows from Living Threads Co. and functional fine pottery from Virginia-based White Hearth. You’ll find plenty of accessories, too—leather bags from Neva Opet and Farrier Leather; modern statement jewelry from Kicheko Goods and love, Lori Michelle; and eco-conscious nail paints from D.C. brand Mischo Beauty.
As for the name? Evans explains: “I wanted to pick a name that reflects the fact that we’re a community of designers—something that brings people together in a common gathering place.” My bet is that she’s onto something.
2905 District Ave., Suite 125, Fairfax; @shopparkstory, shopparkstory.com