Washington, D.C. - April 03, 2007

French Connection

Le Village Marche

They don’t have the friendliest reputation, but you’ve never had a problem bonding with the French. (You’re especially tight with Mme Camembert and M. Vivier.)

So you’ll want to quickly acquaint yourself with Le Village Marche. The newly opened home store makes you feel like you’re walking through a Parisian flea market — and it’s stocked with all the goodies you might find in one.

Fall in love with vintage scales and glass seltzer bottles. Become smitten with the antique and reproduction furniture, including a blue shuttered cabinet, glass-front armoire, and extra-large farm tables. And go ga-ga for garden accessories such as distressed planters, wrought-iron trellises, vintage topiaries, and wire birdhouses.

Meanwhile, stock up on animal ramekins; fleur-de-lis-patterned glasses; 1930s postcards; and other charming, unexpected trinkets.

Because everybody enjoys a little French twist.

Le Village Marche, The Village at Shirlington, 4150 South 28th Street, Arlington (703-379-4444).