October 21, 2009

Curator San Francisco

Get your fix of smartly edited basics (Micaela Greg knits, Blank jeans) at this delightfully diminutive boutique from the design team behind She-bible. Natch, their own line of stylishly comfy dresses and tops is available, too.

  Civic Center, Fashion, Good for Gifts, Indie Designers

September 10, 2009

Ambiance San Francisco

If you can’t find something at Ambiance — the local minichain that packs its boutiques with trendy tops, dresses, and jeans — there may be no hope for you. Super-friendly sales girls really do like you, as their commercials proclaim, so don’t be afraid to take their suggestions.

  Cow Hollow, Fashion, Impulse Buys

September 8, 2009

Simply Chic San Francisco

This Noe Valley boutique (with another location in the Marina) features tightly curated groupings of contemporary clothing and accessories, all with reasonable price tags.

  Noe Valley, Fashion

September 8, 2009

Gravel & Gold San Francisco

An eclectic boutique for ’70s-chic vintage finds from the likes of Lagerfeld and Dior, unusual yet charming housewares, and the shop’s own line of accessories made with Al’s Attire in North Beach.

  Mission, Fashion, Private Parties

September 8, 2009

Cop Copine San Francisco

Avant-garde French fashions for women who aren’t afraid to don the cutting-edge looks of the moment.

  Union Square, Fashion, Avant-Garde, Frenchy

September 8, 2009

Mercy Vintage Now San Francisco

Stocked with clothing, shoes, hats, and jewelry from all decades. Fancy designer pieces cohabitate with no-names, all of which are scored from flea markets, estate sales, and obscure road trips.

  Oakland, Fashion, Awesome Old Shit

September 8, 2009

Molte Cose San Francisco

This whimsical, three-level boutique stocks both vintage and new items. Jewelry, housewares, men’s, and intimates, as well as unusual gift ideas are the shop’s specialties.

  Nob Hill, Fashion, Good for Gifts

September 8, 2009

Gimme Shoes San Francisco

The shoes here aren’t your standard pumps and flats: They’re conversation pieces from the likes of Dries Van Noten and Loeffler Randall.

  Pacific Heights, Fashion

September 8, 2009

Hlaska San Francisco

There’s no question about it: You’ve got baggage. Why not tote the best-looking kind with beautifully constructed leather goods from this local designer’s accessory flagship? Androgynous handbags, wallets, biz card cases, and more appeal equally to men and women, regardless of whom has more to hide.

  Lower Pacific Heights, Fashion