Gossip on 23rd

"I'm not a big fan of gossiping," Katherine Glorioso says, "but you want to be the talk of the town."

Glorioso's new Crystal City boutique, Gossip on 23rd, is likely to cause some chatter. The cozy shop opened in November, specializing in Los Angeles designers such as Glam, Monteau, Bizz Princess, T-Party and Tree People. Expect cute blouses, T-shirts, dresses and trinkets at relatively affordable prices: Aside from denim, nothing costs more than $100.

"I know New York is daring, but I feel like the West Coast is more daring, more trendy, more fun," says Glorioso, 34 and a Great Falls native. What's her take on Washington style? "I like it a lot now," she says jokingly, "because I dress some of the people!"

-- Akeya Dickson

The following items are available at Gossip on 23rd (566 23rd St. S., Arlington, 703-920-1498,http://www.gossipon23rd.com).

Final Touch Wrap Dress

Vibrant green and neutral tones will be big for spring, Glorioso says. This pretty printed frock ($55) features a bit of both.

KuraDesign Bag

Margo Schlossberg, founder of KuraDesign, crafted this vintage-inspired beaded purse ($50).

T-Party T-Shirt

The shop's cheeky tees and pajama sets are $20 each, part of Glorioso's efforts to keep the fashions fun and affordable.

Ami Bijoux Earrings

These etched-wood danglers ($7) feel as light as the leaves they resemble.