There is no place like Old Town, Alexandria during the Holidays.  I make it a point to visit King Street as often as possible during the winter months to enjoy the lighted streets and the finest shopping Alexandria has to offer.  Between Christmas gifts and the New Year’s Eve outfit I just have to have (and then never wear again), I am the economy’s best friend during the holidays.  One store that you must stop in during your visit to the lighted streets is Imagine Artwear, located at 1124 King Street in the heart of Old Town.  Owner, Carol Supplee opened Imagine Artwear in 1988 when she made the transition from very successful corporate career woman to small business owner.  The original location was on the 800 block of King Street, and Carol has been settled in at their current location for the past twelve years.  

As a child, Carol decided to break the mold.  Instead of working at her father’s Drug store, she decided to apply for a job at a local dress shop.  I guess you could say she was inspired early on.  As an adult, Carol’s business savvy and extensive marketing background has helped her to run a successful store in a tough economy.  Imagine Artwear is not like other retail stores you may find yourself in during this crazy shopping season.  Carol showcases only the best in contemporary American crafts.  Imagine Artwear sells sophisticated clothing, jewelry, and accessories made exclusively by American artists.  It is a gallery dedicated to displaying the talents of weavers, painters, surface designers, jewelers, potters, glass artists, and furniture makers.  As they say, “it is a craft fair happening year round”.  This is a fantastic place to come shop for that perfect and unique gift.  

Serving its community for two decades, Imagine Artwear has attracted local as well as an international audience. Carol has a great relationship and rapport with the artists with whom she works.  She is passionate about American made products and does all she can to promote the crafts of the artists she hosts.  She feels that it is her responsibility to sell the Artist’s products so that they can continue to do what they love.  Kathleen Wier-West, Carol’s most recent Artist to showcase her trade, attested to the fact that Carol’s honesty and enthusiasm is appreciated by those for whom she works so hard.  When Carol was asked what her favorite part of this company was, she was swift to reply that it is the people – the artists, the shoppers, and those who appreciate the sophistication and quality of the unique pieces that are found at Imagine Artwear.  

Imagine Artwear will be around for us to enjoy for a long time to come.  Carol and the Artists continue to thrive in this tough economy; their success can be attributed to their hard work, and the high quality of their affordable products.  The things you will find at Imagine Artwear can be worn or enjoyed by all different ages.  Whether you are looking for an outfit that gives you confidence for your holiday party, that perfect stocking stuffer, or a gift for someone special, you must stop in to Imagine Artwear.  I guarantee you will have a hard time leaving without something new!  

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