This small, intimate store, not far from the Key Bridge in Georgetown, has high-quality gowns at surprisingly reasonable prices. This is partially because the owner designs many of the dresses herself. While the selection is not huge, the staff is flexible, and you can essentially redesign many of the gowns. While I was there, a bride, who had transformed a simple tank-top style gown into a much more ornate piece with red silk roses and tulle around the neckline, beamed as she modeled her dress. Most aspects of the dresses can be altered, and the staff is helpful in letting you know your options.
Prices vary by dress.
While salespeople at this boutique's expensive women's clothing section can at times be stand-offish, the bridal staff was more pleasant. I have to admit I was initially put off by Hannelore, the near-mythic Old Town Alexandria bridal salon. The receptionist was less than welcoming, making me wait while another woman who had missed her appointment was helped. I wasn't interested in. But Hannelore has a large selection of dresses and styles to suit most tastes as well as an entire bridesmaid department that has its own staff.