Get Your Shop On in Oakton

One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to check out the stores that might not be available in my own hometown- and Fairfax County has plenty to choose from!  I can’t believe the amount of trendy boutiques and high-fashion department stores that are available, and it all just depends on where you look.

Many of the shopping centers are now mixed-use developments, where people can live and play without having to drive all over town.  These self-contained villages are a lot of fun to visit because the stores are all out in the open air, and you get a sense of walking down Main Street, USA, when you shop there.  There are a couple to choose from near Oakton, such as Reston Town Center and Fairfax Corner.  You’ll find delightful eateries, bakeries, and coffee shops tucked among the larger chain stores and boutiques.

If you’re more traditional about your shopping, and you’re looking for a shopping mall, then Fairfax County has plenty of those, too.  You’ll find the popular department stores, as well as high-fashion shops such as Armani Exchange, Michael Kors, Burberry, and Hermes of Paris at the malls surrounding Oakton.  My favorites are Fairfax Square and Tysons Galleria, where I can visit Tiffany and Co., the Elizabeth Arden’s Red Door Salon and Spa, Chanel, and Versace.  Even if I’m not planning to buy, it’s fun just to see what the latest styles are.

If you’re not a fan of shopping centers of any kind, then be sure to drive around the cities a bit.  There are locally owned boutiques, antique stores, craft shops, and hobby supply stores tucked away in all corners of the county.  No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find it in Fairfax County.