Stephanie Spear 
Even though Old Town Alexandria is a go-to spot for colonial charm and buildings of historical significance, there’s something fresh and inviting about many of the businesses that call the neighborhood home. One business owner found her future in a historical building, which naturally came with its own ghost. Hattie Dove, owner of ERA Edit, located at 109 N. Fairfax Street in Alexandria, shared her story with The Fairfax Girl. Read on for more about Hattie and ERA Edit.
About Hattie
Hattie Dove is originally from Georgia and moved to Northern Virginia after college. She has a degree in fashion merchandising from the University of Georgia and worked in various boutiques in the area for several years, filling many roles, including ordering and managing the stores. She has lived and worked in and around Old Town since she arrived in the area.
“Eventually, I realized that I wanted to do something on my own,” Hattie said. “I wanted something that was mine.” Hattie started looking for a space, knowing she wanted to stay in Old Town. It took a few months but eventally the space at 109 N. Fairfax Street became the home for Hattie’s dream. The classic architecture of the space makes for a fun contrast with the modern styles on offer at ERA. The oversized windows let in natural light, and a cozy fireplace nook makes for an inviting spot to hang out and browse.
The ERA Edit
First, the name. ERA is Hattie’s middle name. “For real!” she said. Hattie runs the store with her best friend Tiffani Phelps. Hattie and Tiffany’s friendship is the inspiration for what is stocked in the shop. “I buy items that either Tiffany or I would wear, or someone who we know in real life,” Hattie said.
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“We sell a real mix,” Hattie said. “We have everything from basic denim to statement pieces to dresses for special occasions,” Hattie said her favorite season to buy for is the fall, pointing out the different colors and textures that make the season special.
Tiffany pointed out that one of Hattie’s specialties is styling clients. Hattie described styling as something she discovered by accident during an internship. “At one of my first jobs, we had to make a lookbook, and I got pulled into creating some looks for the lookbook,” she said. “It was really fun, seeing what items went together.” Hattie also got on-the-ground styling experience at another internship in New York City. “Someone didn’t show up and there was a photo shoot and I had to step in,” she said.
Hattie’s eye for putting items together is part of what makes shopping at ERA a more personalized experience, according to Tiffani. “Hattie can really find what works for the client,” she said.
Tiffani and Hattie shared that one of the best things about the business is the relationships they’ve developed with other small business owners. “The community is incredible,” Hattie said. “They are all so supportive.”
In addition to frequent special events, the Era team can also host private shopping parties or other custom gatherings including vendor pop-ups.
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