Take Shopping to the Streets to Find Fabulous Accessories for Less

One of the benefits of living in a big city is all of the options you have when shopping. There are chain stores like Gap and Banana Republic all over, as well as many adorable little boutiques hidden throughout the city. But there may be one option that you have not fully taken advantage of. Street vendors! In downtown DC you will find street vendors scattered throughout the city selling an array of unique accessories like scarves, bags, sunglasses, jewelry and so much more. Remember Carrie Bradshaw inSex in the City 2 and the adorable $20 shoes she found from a street vendor in Abu Dhabi (that really almost cost her way more than $20, if you know what I mean).  Just like Carrie, you are sure to find some hidden gems, so take the time to stop by and browse when something catches your eye. This is a great way to find affordable, trendy items that you are going to love and definitely get for a steal.

While we all love a deal, it is important to remember to appreciate a hard day’s work.  Take that into consideration when bargaining with a street vendor. If you find something you must have and the vendor offers you the item for reasonable price, it may not be worth haggling.  They are just trying to make a living too. Now, if a vendor’s initial price is simply outrageous, talk to them and let them know what you are willing to pay while remaining polite, cool and collected. The vendor may refuse to bargain, in which case you simply walk away. Walking away will often make vendors change their tune. Sometimes, though, it is not meant to be.  But remember, there is always another vendor around the corner.