D.C.’s Chicest Shoe Fanatic Gives Us The Lowdown On Her Town

UPDATE: This story was originally published on November 8.

The experience of stepping through the doors of Marlene Hu Aldaba's two Georgetown boutiques is universal – something akin to lust, envy, instantaneous desire, or a combination of all three. Maybe it's the new Isabel Marant booties that get your heart pounding, or the Lanvin dress that sends your pulse rate through the roof. If you crave a wardrobe edited down to only the most luxurious essentials, this is the lady who can help you get there — just take a look at her everyday getups if you need proof.

The former graphic designer started the Hu's empire with her partner of 11 years, Eric, and together, they've expanded D.C.'s footprint in the luxury market, catering to chic locals and celeb clients, hosting stellar designers, and stocking some incredibly hard-to-find scores (Céline, anyone?). We got lucky enough to snag a day with Marlene, where we jetted around town to some of her favorite hangouts and got to know her funny, more-than-just-fashionable side. Ahead, an itinerary for spending a super-stylish day in the District.