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

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

Bryan Lee San Francisco

Score modern basics and utilitarian bags for both men and women at this Cow Hollow boutique. Salespeople are accommodating and make for a pleasant shopping experience.

  Cow Hollow, Fashion

June 11, 2009

My Roommate's Closet San Francisco

  Cow Hollow, Fashion, Cheap, Designer Clothing

December 17, 2008

Encore Vintage San Francisco

Pulling from estate sales across the country, this boutique is stocked with a killer selection of vintage boots, jewelry, and accessories.

  Fashion, Vintage

November 14, 2008

Shotwell San Francisco

This downtown boutique outfits men and women in indie threads, including many local designers.

  Union Square, Fashion, Indie Designers

October 20, 2008

Helpers House of Couture San Francisco

Style icon and philanthropist Joy Venturini Bianchi’s boutique is filled with killer vintage mixed with new designers, and 100 percent of proceeds benefits local nonprofit Helpers of the Mentally Retarded. To find out the secret address, you must first make an appointment.

  Fashion, Do-Gooder, Vintage