Mae's Dress Boutique, an institution in downtown McLean for more than 30 years, is closing. Owner Mae Shipe is retiring.

Mae's was the place to shop for after-five gowns, and dresses for occasions ranging from Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and second weddings to military galas.

"We have the gown for you," she wrote  in a letter sent this week to preferred customers.

The letter began, "Mae's Dress Boutique is closing its doors forever" and went on to announce a "retirement - store closing sale."

Friday afternoon found a steady stream of customers looking through racks of dresses, gowns, tops and shoes for bargains.

The dress shop is located  6707 Old Dominion Drive, across a parking lot from the Shell Service Station.