Written by DCist contributor Vince Wadhwani, of BuyIndie.net The reality of big chains and online retailers is that for many small businesses, competing against them is extremely difficult — especially when it comes to prices. One local clothing store has found a successful approach in focusing on novelty — by providing clothing items that you won’t see your neighbor wearing the next week. “I try to re-merchandise the shop at least once a week; It’s…

By DCist Contributor Morgan Hungerford. DC is not a city of sample sales and trunk shows, so when we have one fashion-related event worthy of attendance it is Very Exciting; when we have two it is a Big Deal. And three? Well, you lucky, things, let’s just say you’d better take advantage. Tonight is the Third Thursday MidCity Shopper Social; shop the U Street Corridor and 14th Street for special deals at Junction. Wild Women…

— The Hirshhorn has kicked off its 30th anniversary with the opening of “Ana Mendieta: Earth Body, Sculpture and Performance 1972–1985,” a major survey of the artist’s work, in which “art becomes the sheer, absurd impulse to impose your presence — which can include a female presence — on the world.” (Read more of Blake Gopnik’s review in the Post. Mendieta’s sculpture of black ritual candles will be lit again this Friday from 12-5 p.m….