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Mercedes Bien Vintage
Category: Shopping Fashion Used, Vintage & Consignment Used, Vintage & Consignment [Edit]
2423 18th St NW2nd Fl
(between N Adams Mill Rd & N Belmont Rd)
Washington, DC 20009
Neighborhood: Adams Morgan
(202) 360-8481
- Hours:
Sat 12 pm - 6 pm
Sun 12 pm - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
19 reviews for Mercedes Bien Vintage
19 reviews in English
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Review from David H.
Washington, DC
3/10/2010
If you want quality clothes and don't want to spend retail money or dig through clearance racks for clothes that are out of season, go to the often ignored vintage store. I have been to a few "high end" vintage stores in the area. And I prefer Mercedes Bien.
Like most thrift stores in the area there's alot more to offer for women, but there is a small room dedicated to men that's worth checking out. Note that they're only open on Saturday and Sunday though!
A thought: While women are often most excited to show their most recent item of clothing, men are most excited to show their oldest piece of clothing. -
Review from Lynne A.
Arlington, VA
1/3/2012
I agree with the other reviewer who wished she could give this place 0 stars! The owner was exceptionally rude to me. I asked if I could try on a dress (mind you, the 'dressing room' is a screen in the corner of the room) - and the owner pointed to a woman who was just leaving and said 'well, she just tried this dress and it didn't fit her so I don't know why you would think it would fit you'. She would not even let me try the dress on! The clothes her may be nice (if overpriced), but I for one will never go back.
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Review from Sara C.
Washington, DC
8/26/2008
This walk-up establishment is only open on weekend afternoons, but it's right in the midst of the Adams Morgan milieu and very easy to find, next door to the Black Squirrel.
It's a small store with men's and women's vintage clothes, shoes, hats, eyewear and jewelry. I'm especially impressed by how nice the owner is, and what a great eye she has for solid vintage women's clothing and accessories. Everything is unusual, well made and classy, skewing towards a sixties and seventies vibe. Any time I visit she finds clothes for me that I wouldn't have chosen myself but that fit and look great, and she's got a very uplifting patter about how fantastic your eyes and your posture are, what a classic figure you've got, and how you need to look at the positives in your shape more, and carry yourself well. I know, I know, obvious salesmanship, but I like her style and she always improves mine!
The prices here seem fair to me; it's well-curated, not Salvation Army, and so there are no steals. But most things I've seen are in the $40-$140 range, which I think is very reasonable for the quality and the personal attention.Listed in: My Neighborhood, Born to Shop
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Review from Samantha G.
Hampden, MD
6/1/2009
This is one of the better vintage shops I've stopped into. Everyone raves about Meeps but I like it here much better (if you're looking for things to actually wear, not costume).
The owner has a great eye, so trust her judgement when she says something will look great on you. The dresses are carefully selected and the shop is not stuffed to the gills like so many other vintage stores-- but this allows you to see individual items that are displayed. The things that are hanging on the wall seem to be the best choices and will catch your eye (and everyone else's so don't leave to 'think about a dress' because it will be gone!)
There's no actual dressing room- and you'll be changing next to a window- so this isn't a place for modesty. Like Angela V., I knew the owner's "your figure is fantastic!" was all sales sales sales-- but I loved it nonetheless!
The clothes are all classy and lean mostly towards a 70s vibe...great accessories to choose from especially belts! I found a cute patent black belt for $18 and most dresses than I saw were $50-$70, so not too too pricey.
The owner also mentioned to me that she sews, so if you find something that needs a little tweaking, she can probably help you out with that as well.
A great little find :) -
Review from May P.
Washington, DC
9/9/2009
The clothes at Mercedes Bien are interesting and sometimes even radical, but I have never found anything I deemed worth the asking price. Prices are negotiable with the owner who is friendly and willing to give assistance. I've only been a handful of times, but each time only one person is working. She's very friendly, knowledgeable and patient but isn't authorized to haggle. My boyfriend and I have met the owner and she even brought in some hats for him to try on, one of which he bought, loves and does not stop wearing. I, however, as a large person have never found anything remotely my size. If your a female vintage clothing lover above a size eight, I would suggest going somewhere else.
Basically, the place has a unique collection of clothes and accessories which are overpriced to me but may be in the budget of others. If you don't mind spending a pretty penny, you'll probably find something that tickles your fancy. Its fairly small but definitely a great place to at least window-shop. It would be great if they were open during the week when I'm in Adams Morgan with nothing to do. -
Review from Lee H.
3/3/2010
This tucked away vintage shop has an amazing selection of jewelry, fur, coats, sunglasses and high end vintage perfect clothes.
I almost walked out with a mink scarf, fur hat and a beautiful deco pin that would have looked fabulous with my new fur hat and scarf.
Instead I walked away with a gorgeous '50s era Trifari brooch for my girlfriend.
The owner is simply wonderful and provides great customer service. Some of the items are a bit pricey, but the selection is truly special and one-of-a-kind vintage.Listed in: DC and Beyond
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Review from A. C.
Washington, DC
5/1/2011
I wish I could give this place no stars.
Not only did I get terrible service, but I was insulted by a woman who looked to be the shop owner. She was attending to a customer who was interested in a handbag, which was little. The shop owner/ sales woman goes, "I think we're going to start seeing women carrying bags more like this size, and not like that." Then she points at my bag (I wasn't standing far from them), which was a big hobo bag. "It's so much easier to find your cell phone in a bag this size", talking about the small handbag. I shot her a dirty look and walked right out of there.
Yes, the stuff is super expensive. It was really the terrible experience I had there, though, that ensured that I will never be back. You'd have to be an idiot to think that that's good customer service! Or maybe she just didn't care, which is even more distressing. -
Review from Caroline B.
Washington, DC
10/11/2009
True vintage is scarce here in DC and Mercedes is the real deal. Some really great pieces I found:
--a black ladies who lunch jacket with REAL leopard collar and cuffs ($145)
--a stunning long red silk embroidered Chinese coolie jacket ($145)
--a soft and warm faux cheetah coat ($95)
Truthfully, I didn't think I'd like the coat until Mercedes urged me to try it on. Hanging on a wall didn't do it justice. As soon as I had it on, I knew it had to go home with me. Listen to her even if you're reluctant--she knows her stuff. You'll be surprised to discover what works on you.
The prices for these items are more than reasonable considering their craftsmanship and rarity. You'll also find some very lovely shoes, belts, and funky costume jewelry.
Shop is only open on Saturdays from 12-6 and Sundays from 12-5. -
Review from B R.
Washington, DC
4/17/2011
My husband and I discovered this gem today, and we were both impressed by the quality, service and prices. There is a terrific selection of vintage clothes, shoes, accessories, etc. for both men and women, in casual and dressy styles. The owner, who I believe is Mercedes herself, was amazing. She spent over an hour picking out clothes for me, suggesting outfits, and really going above and beyond - all without ever being pushy or overbearing. She seemed to genuinely love what she does.
I rarely find a single vintage clothing item in my size (12-14), let alone multiples. Here, I found so many wonderful pieces that I actually had to pare down my selection when it came time to check out. It was heaven. As my hubby said, he's rarely seen me enjoy shopping so much. He also found some great stuff.
The owners take great care with her items, which are all in top condition. She had even altered some pieces herself to update them and make them more wearable. Prices ranged from $50-$150 for dresses - very reasonable, considering the quality. I got a sweater for $22, which was a steal. The store is only open on weekends, but it's well worth making time for a visit. -
Review from Kit W.
Washington D.C., DC
3/15/2011
Everything here is so ridiculously overpriced. You can find everything in this store for at least half price cheaper online or at flea markets. The most inconvenient thing about this place is that quite a few pieces are not marked with prices. And the thing is, small stores have the right to be overpriced if their service is great. When I first went in, the owner didn't acknowledge me at all, (this is surprisingly common in small stores, I don't know what these owners are thinking) but when she realized I might actually buy things, she warmed up to me. She's a fun woman.
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Review from George S.
Washington, DC
7/18/2011
Ms. Mercedes Bien is one classy lady. There is something about her that is familiar and yet bizzare (and I mean that as a compliment). I haven't been back for a while now (trying to save some $$ here) but always feel good to know that she's there when I need her. She's also a great sales person. I mean where do you ever get one-on-one service anymore??? Ever since Uncommon Threads in G-burg closed this year, I have seriously been on the look out for that special salesperson with that "it" factor. I would say Mercedes Bien has just that. I can tell that she does this because it is her passion. Yes, some of her items are a bit on the pricey side for us poor people, but you can find a deal if you look around. In the past I purchased a beautiful pink linen dress with a bow going across the chest (ADORABLE!) and a unique 70's version of an art deco pattern button-up. Also in pink. LOVES IT. Just go, just try. Is good for you.
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Review from Allison S.
Washington, DC
8/18/2010
I really didn't like this place - it was expensive and the staff was not very friendly or helpful, as though it was my fault I had to ask the prices for things without tags. Not as well curated as Treasury but has a lot of high end designer stuff if that's what you like. Only open Saturdays, I think.
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Review from Adam I.
Washington, DC
9/6/2009
In terms of vintage menswear, Mercedes is mediocre at best. To begin with, their selection is small, which in itself would not ordinarily be a problem. And indeed, Mercedes small selection boasts some gems. Alas, the store is absurdly expensive, with items priced two or three times above articles available just down the block at Meeps.
Have a gander, but move along to Meeps. -
Review from Emilie J.
Arlington, VA
10/20/2010
When I can enter the store, spend about 7-10 minutes browsing, and then leave without one of the two sales girls ever acknowledging that they had a warm body in the store, I don't care what kind of clothing you're selling: I'm never going back. Absurd.
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Review from Shenan C.
Washington, DC
8/24/2010
I wore the items I bought there ONE time but everything looks so glamorous that you want to try on or buy everything. It is important to note that my sister and I will not go back there simply because we are scared of being followed around by the shop lady and told how every item will look so good on! Good luck in the fitting "room" -- the shop lady will be right there waiting so she can tell you how perfect it is for you. And it comes with a heavy price tag, beware!
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Review from Sarah C.
2/17/2010
Mercedes! What a wonderful woman, so knowledgable and helpful. She was able to show me a few of her ideas without being a "pushy salesperson." My friend and I left the store with a fair amount of unique things for not too much money. Sadly, the gucci shoes were a little too small. Overall a great experience and I'll be sure to visit next time I'm in the area.
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Review from Sara P.
Dover, NH
2/14/2010
The best experience i have ever had at a vintage shop. Mercedes was very helpful, the store had a ton of gems waiting for the right person and that person was me ;) Quality vintage! Go see!!
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Review from Angela V.
Los Angeles, CA
3/5/2009
Mercedes Bien was born and raised in DC. She bought and sold vintage before most people ever thought about wearing it. She has a tremendous eye and sense of style. I first noticed her selling a few choice pieces in the old wknd flea market at the top of Georgetown/Wisconsin Ave in the school parking lot. This flea market no longer exists, but when it did - Mercedes was there - selling everything from pill box hats, Lilian vintage jackets from the 40's, to bakelite, etc. Anyway, suffice it to say, that she knows her stuff - and in the world of collectors, she is very respected. I have bought from her for years. She has mailed things to me when I lived in other places. She knows what I like. She knows what looks good. She just knows. There aren't many real vintage collectors like her anymore. So I cherish anytime she feels like opening this sweet shop and bringing fun things from her well-stocked home.
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Review from Sara J.
Berkeley, CA
6/25/2010
I was in desperate need of something to wear to a wedding, when my husband and I happened upon Mercedes Bien Vintage (almost missed it - a small sandwich board on the sidewalk directed us to the small second-story shop). Immediately upon entering, you can see that the clothes and accessories are carefully selected and of high quality, while reasonably priced given their provenance. I'll cut to the chase and say that Mercedes helped me pick out an adorable and unique outfit, including a 50's dress which I would never have selected myselt but which looked awesome with a fun red belt, Vera Wang heels, and funky Yves-St. Laurent sunglasses - all purchased at the shop at an affordable total cost. Mercedes was helpful and supportive without being overbearing. I hate clothes shopping, but I actually had a fun time here, and I received many compliments on my outfit at the wedding. Such a refreshing change from department store clones on the one hand, and shabby thrift stores on the other. Definitely check out Mercedes Bien Vintage if you want to add something unique to your wardrobe, and enjoy shopping in the process!
