Street Style: Roya Hashimi
In a previous post about an afternoon I spent with my daughter shopping for her wedding gown, I mentioned several bridal boutiques we visited. The very first shop we came upon was one of our absolute favorites, and this Couture Bridal Atelier was right in Old Town Alexandria — Elegance by Roya.
The minute we stepped inside this beautiful little boutique, we were surrounded by an exquisite selection of gowns by top designers such as Anne Barge, Badgley Mischka, Paloma Blanca, Pronovias and Rosa Clará (ranging from $1,500 to $8,000) — all hanging neatly along the wall.
The owner, Roya Hashimi, is a fashion designer whose sense for style and fashion began at age 16. After completing a 7-year intensive program in fashion design at the Hamburg Fashion Design School in Germany, Roya developed her own brand in the U.S. using original designs, imported fabrics and trim, an extraordinary attention to detail, and stunning couture finishes. Roya’s specialty is bridal and evening wear, and since opening Elegance, she has “done nothing short of astounding the wedding parties in the Washington, D.C. area.”
About You
How do you spend your time? Most of my time Monday through Saturday I’m in my bridal boutique designing wedding dresses or working with brides. At home I love to be with my family and take care of my house. My obsession is cooking.
Neighborhood: I don’t live in Alexandria but Old Town is like my second home. We opened our store on King Street 18 years ago!
What is your home town? I’m originally form Herat, Afghanistan, but was born in Hamburg Germany.
What brought you to Alexandria? Marrying my wonderful husband, and opening my atelier in old town.
What would surprise people about you? Designing couture gowns…from scratch.
Fashion
Define your style in three words or less: Elegant, classic, feminine.
The go-to piece in your wardrobe: My black pants.
Favorite fragrance: Flora Botanica.
Heels or flats? Love heels!
Home
Favorite room in your home? My family room.
Antiques modern or a mix? Modern.
Favorite way to entertain: Cooking and having all the family together.
Next planned purchase: A new bed.
Alexandria
Last purchase in Alexandria: I bought a beautiful outfit from Coco Blanca.
Favorite Annual Alexandria event: Christmastime!
Photo Credit: Sarah Marcella Photography
- About the boutique
Using the soothing color palette of a coconut by the sea—whites, neutrals and splashes of turquoise—Coco Blanca has created a trademark look. Her lifestyle boutique offers expert solutions for home design and women’s fashion—blending a clean, fresh, sophisticated, feel-good style.
210 South Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.535.8002
1 Comment
Roya is lovely! I tell everyone about her!