Ready For Summer Parties? Shop Aliceanna’s Pretty Wares To Prep

Besides being a major 2012 buzzword, "shopping local" also just makes us feel really good — we get to support local designers and champion indie retailers, and put money back into our local economy. That's about as warm and fuzzy as it gets, right?

So, if you've got the buy-local bug, too, you'll want to make tracks to Mount Pleasant shop Nana, where Maryland-based designer Patrice Gentile has been sending batches of adorable items from her Aliceanna spring '12 collection.

Owner Jackie Flanagan handpicked three stellar pieces from the collection — the gorgeous ruffled pencil skirt shown here, a fitted cocktail dress with an intricate halter neckline, and a cotton-eyelet frock with a peter pan collar. Items are available in sizes 2 to 12, and each piece is handmade by the designer. But wait, there's more! While just three pieces are available at Nana, you can shop the full collection, which includes gorgeous tiered sundresses and so-hot bralette tops, online.

Where: Nana, 3068 Mount Pleasant Street NW; 202-667-6955.