Left My Heart at LF - San Francisco

San Francisco Boutique Pique
By: Nikki Jong @ Boutiquing

Sequins! Studs! Shiny things! Glitz and glam abound at LF San Francisco, which is basically the Las Vegas of Boutiques. Everywhere you look, there’s something new, gorgeous, fascinating and kind of puzzling (as in: how does this go on?) to enjoy. Even the displays have opulent, over-the-top Vegas-style overtones.

Glitzy distractions aside, LF San Francisco is an ace at customer service. If I closed my eyes, I’d swear I was at the Bellagio. I was greeted right away, I never had to carry a thing, and when I got to the dressing room, I was offered a bottle of water. Not only that, two rounds of suggested pieces magically made their way to me—at impeccably timed intervals—as I tried on some look-at-me amazing tops and jackets. And know what? Every recommendation was spot-on: a good fit for my body type and in line with my original picks. It doesn’t get better than this unless you’re shopping with a personal stylist.

Here’s the skinny: this is the spot for no-holds-barred trend shopping. We’re talking animal print, studs, fringe, faux fur, sequins and lots of it. It’s not the spot to stock up on basics, although you might find a few—like a slinky tank to wear under your new statement piece. Almost all of the clothing lines are European, with the exception of some denim, and knit line Emma & Sam. Everything I tried on was well made, and well worth a splurge.

In fact, I fell in lust a couple of times, once with a lace bolero and then again with a fringe blazer, both by Millau. Other designers include Chandelier, TFNC London, Kosmika, Kal Kaur Rai and Duke & Duchess. American designers make an appearance in footwear, with kicky picks from Jeffrey Campbell, Seychelles and Naughty Monkey.

Bottom line: if you’re looking to bust out your inner showgirl, LF San Francisco is the place to get dolled up and get your sparkles on.

LF San Francisco

1870 Union Street

San Francisco, CA 90405

415.567.6872

www.lfstores.com

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Nida Boutique - Nida Chic Style?

San Francisco Boutique Pique
By: Nikki Jong @ Boutiquing

Nida’s vibe is distinctly European—although that shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, considering the boutique’s owner is Italian and the majority of the designers featured here are European (mostly French). What is uncommon, however, is encountering such warm, friendly service in a boutique known for its high-end labels. But that’s what you can expect at Nida: unpretentious, knowledgeable help, and about twice a year, killer deals on pieces you may have only considered purchasing oh, say, in your dreams.

A couple of exceptions to the European brands include Steven Alan and Opening Ceremony (loopy oversized cardigan in a creamy wheat tone). You’ll find elegant, timeless options such as a Daniele Alessandrini black chiffon shift with asymmetrical gathering, as well as masterfully executed trends like a Y-3 Yohji Yamamoto leather hoodie jacket. If you know Isabel Marant, then you know this label’s very exclusive and hard to find (the designer prohibits her line from being sold online, and is notoriously selective about the boutiques that carry the line). But you can find the label at Nida, alongside Paul & Joe, Paul & Joe Sister (the more affordable line) and Vanessa Bruno.

I spied fun Melissa jelly ballet flats, Vivenne Westwood for Melissa rubber booties and Maloles flats before hitting up the showcase of resin jewelry. Nida’s selection—chunky cuffs and bangles, and rounded rings—from local San Francisco-based Tina Frey Designs, is divine. Each piece is like a miniature sculpture for your body, in rainbow brights and sophisticated frosted sheers.

It’s also worth mentioning that Nida carries Sumbody, an all-natural skincare line whose products are handcrafted in Sebastopol. Sumbody’s devoted followers have flocked to Nida since the Sumbody Marina store closed; it’s the only place in the City you can find these sumptuous and earth-friendly products.

High-end European fashion? Check. Great service? Check. Hard-to-find labels? Check. Now the only question is: why are you still reading?

Nida

544 Hayes Street

San Francisco, CA 94102

Phone 415.552.4670

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Cat Seto - Get the (Girly) Goods

San Francisco Boutique Pique

By: Nikki Jong @ Boutiquing

Even from across the street, it’s easy to tell Cat Seto is full of girly delights. Once inside, it doesn’t disappoint: you’re in store for gorgeous stationary, deliciously scented candles and bath products, personalized dishware, and lots of cute little trinkets and gift ideas. Whether you seek a pretty pick-me-up or a housewarming gift for a friend, Cat Seto has you covered. Dainty, girly home décor, fun frocks and kitschy-cute accessories are on the menu at this Russian Hill boutique. If you’re a Cat Seto virgin, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the reasonable prices on most items, especially compared to other boutiques in the neighborhood.

The vibe is undeniably warm and cozy, and it smells amazing when you walk in. One word: Voluspa! Shopping here kind of feels like hanging out at a friend’s cool apartment, thanks to glowing candles, a cute seating area and clever displays arranged neatly but casually, inviting you to pick things up and check ’em out. Fun home décor like decorative porcelain cups featuring a unique knit pattern, and handpainted linen pillows by Koko Gallery only add to the ambiance.

Owner Catherine Seto is a trained writer and painter with an eponymous line of paper products that includes stationary, occasion cards and note cards. The boutique also carries paper products from Wiley Valentine, Delphine and Vellum of Crown Hill. Seto designs custom special occasion cards for everything from weddings and engagements to showers and party invitations. Look for locally inspired note cards—the boutique carries several artfully crafted “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” varieties—that are the antithesis of touristy cards you’ll find at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Cat Seto carries a brief selection of scarves, bags and jewelry, including a collection of eco-friendly canvas totes in whimsical prints—octopus, whale, owl and lobster—from Bungalow 360. You can also find jewelry from local San Francisco designer Ofina.

Apparel isn’t the primary focus at Cat Seto, but it’s not an afterthought, either. The brands may not be household names, but the prices are pocketbook-friendly; expect to find dresses and separates for under $100 from Double Zero, Fashion Blvd, Esley, AAApple, Pip & Puck, Paul n KC, Judy Jr., Piko 1988 and Mind Code. Don’t forget to check out the “grab box” in the box in the back, where you can find deep discounts on items priced to move.

Cat Seto
2406 Polk Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone 415.749.1988

www.catseto.com

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Azalea Boutique - Ornament Yourself

San Francisco Boutique Pique

By: Nikki Jong @ Boutiquing

Azalea just might be the boutiquing equivalent of our amazing city: it offers creativity, style and diversity in spades. Oh-and it's not cheap, but then again, you get what you pay for. Since its opening in 2003, the boutique has added a significant hip factor to the heart of Hayes Valley.

Even if you've never heard of Azalea (where have you been!) chance are you've heard of Tobi, the online brainchild of the duo behind Azalea, co-founders Corina Nurimba and Catherine Chow. The concept behind Tobi is simple: great brands plus great service (check out their 1:1 chat-with-a-stylist feature) equals a great customer experience. But it all started with the brick-and-mortar boutique in happening Hayes Valley, where the all-stylist staff supports just about whatever kind of boutiquing experience you seek.

I've never had a less-than-stellar customer service experience at Azalea. Whether you want to chat about the latest trends, need suggestions, or are just curious about how a particular line is manufactured, one thing's for sure: you can expect attentive, helpful, friendly, knowledgeable (let's just say I consider myself an expert in Japanese denim now) service. You'll be in good hands, but if you prefer a solitary shopping experience, that'll be respected too.

The accessories at Azalea are always on point; find slick '80s-revival Timex watches in white, black, gold, and silver; striped scarves from Michael Stars in soft-as-a-bunny supima; tough-chic rings topped with pyramid studs; and more.

I couldn't resist the Cheap Monday sweater jackets, Splendid tanks, Vince cardigans and Elizabeth and James blazers (hello, lover!). You'll also find favorites like Twenty8Twelve, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Velvet, Joie, Free People, See by Chloe and Paul Smith. Footwear fetish? Dolce Vita and Toms shoes and Frye boots will keep the shakes away.

Know before you go: Head to the back of the store to peruse the sale racks-it's worth it. Spend $500 and you'll get a gift certificate good for a free mani-pedi at the in-house nail spa. Get free hemming with any denim purchase. And ask for a red bag when you check out; bring it with you on your next shopping trip for a 5% discount.

Bottom line: do yourself a fashionable favor and swing by.

Azalea
411 Hayes Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone 415.861.9888
www.azaleasf.com

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Bryan Lee - Go, Seek, Find

San Francisco Boutique Pique
By: Nikki Jong @ Boutiquing

Bryan Lee is like a good friend you want to spend a Sunday afternoon with: it's colorful, comfortable, perfect for a pick-me up, and when it's time to go, you might feel a little sad. Chandeliers cast a warm glow on the cheerful interior, reflected in the over sized mirror at the back of the store.

This Union Street staple carries lines for men and women. With half the store stocking menswear, there's more than enough to keep him interested, but if he looks like he's about to drop, he can do it in style on plush seating thoughtfully set out for the shop-weary. The store stocks a great range of designers, from Postella, Project Vintage and Ali & Ro, to Goddis, Liquid, Juicy Couture, Ella Moss, Joie and Rachel Pally. I also spotted a few basics from local designer Rebecca Beeson.

As far as denim, there's a wide selectin of upscale labels, including Earnest Sewn, Chip & Pepper, Rich & Skinny and Joe's Jeans. Bryan Lee is literally a one-stop shop: you can find and accessorize an entire outfit here. Start with a dress, layer on some tights and a cardigan, add a clutch (I almost bit the bullet with a studded leather envelope clutch) and you're almost ready to go-oh, that's right: jewelry. The selection from Anna Beck alone is pretty amazing. Beck originally hailed from the Bay Area but now lives in Bali; her pieces have a distinct Indonesian influence-I adored her chunky hammered rings and intricate drop earring with clever cut-outs. You're not running off barefooted, are you? I'm pretty sure you need a pair of pumps or some cute boots for that outfit. Whether you lean trendy or timeless, options from Seychelles, Klub Nico, Charles David, Frye and Lovely People will have you covered.

Heather Martin, Bryan Lee's new owner as of January 2009, is a stickler for quality customer service. From alterations to personal shopping assistance and special client thank-you events, she's in it to win you over. You could literally spend hours in here without getting through everything. So maybe you should start out after Sunday brunch next time, and see where the afternoon leads you. I'll bet if it brings you to Bryan Lee, you won't leave empty-handed.

Bryan Lee
1840 Union Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
415.923.9923

www.bryanleesf.com

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Bettina - Beautiful Boutiqing Bliss

San Francisco Boutique Pique
By: Nikki Jong @ Boutiquing

Bettina strikes a perfect balance with its relaxed vibe and chic aesthetic. This spacious boutique is flooded with natural light, but that's only one of a handful of reasons why it's so inviting. It's no secret that San Francisco real estate is at a premium, and oftentimes large boutiques make a misstep in overstocking merchandise simply to fill the floor. At Bettina, it's the exact opposite-and the result is a welcoming space that encourages you to take your time and enjoy your visit. Comfortable leather armchairs flank a coffee table stocked with glossies, and Bettina offers other thoughtful touches such as warm beverage to warm you up on a brisk day, and dog treats for canine neighbors who stop by with their owners. Bettina has cultivated a family among it's staff (affectionately know as B.Girls), and it shows On the store's web site, the stylish B.Girls identify favorite seasonal picks and talk about their personal aesthetics. It's clear these ladies value their clientele. This is the kind of customer experience all boutique should aim to deliver, and Bettina nails it.

Another thing that sets Bettina apart: the boutique carries European designers that are nearly impossible to find elsewhere in the City, as well as Thai and Malaysian designers that you won't see anywhere else. Bettina's eponymous jersey line (featuring tops, cardigans and dresses) is produced in Thailand, where owner Doretta Boehm travels religiously to attend Fashion Week. You'll find some recognizable names at Bettina as well, from Nicholas K and heikerjarick to Velvet (Ashley Judd is a fan) and BB Dakota. There's also a lovely section of cocktail dresses with standout designs by Mimi Turner, USE unused and Zara. It was nice to see a range of sizes in the denim selection to suit the slim as well as the curcy; Bettina carries J Brand jeans, worn by celebs like Angelina Jolie. Even if you're a heels girl through and through, it's be quite the feat if you could pass up the enviable selection of ballet flats from French favorite Repetto. And if you are a heels girl, all the more reason to hoof it down to Bettina; you'll have a nice, comfy chair waiting for you when your tootsies give out from all the shopping.

Bettina
3615 Sacramento Street
San Francisco, CA 94118
415.563.8002
www.bettinasf.com

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Eco Citizen - Eco Fabulous

San Francisco Boutique Pique

By: Nikki Jong @ Boutiquing

Here’s the thing: Eco Citizen has been open since 2007, and even though I must have walked by it a hundred times on jaunts up and down Polk Street, I’d never ventured inside until now. I’ve been missing out! Inside, the space has the bright, airy feel of a gallery with its white walls and light wood floors. It’s minimalist in the best kind of way, providing a clean backdrop to some seriously amazing pieces. Walking by the storefront, I’d expected to come across basics in materials like organic cotton and bamboo, but I was pleasantly surprised once I ducked inside—Eco Citizen offers a lot more than that.

Shoes, accessories, clothing—every product in the store is eco-friendly and sustainably sourced and fashioned. True to its eco-friendly conceit, Eco Citizen features local designers including Sarah Shepherd, Josh Podoll, Sust, Jules Elin and Jen Darling. One favorite find was a garment bag by Jen Darling, whose entire line is fashioned out of vintage textiles; the one I admired was gray canvas with a funky ink spatter print. I also adored the cotton disco tops by Sust with their swingy shape, just-right drape and bright colors—hello, neon yellow!

The first real surprise, however, was a Linda Loudermilk organic cotton tee, in a classic slim-fitting shape, washed in eco-friendly metallic ink. The wash gave the tee some heft and texture and the result was a classic with edge: elegant under a blazer, perfection on its own. The second big surprise was the selection of elegant cocktail dresses in sumptuous fabrics, in jewel tones and basic black, with fantastic details like asymmetrical cuts, exposed zippers, cutout backs and oversized bows.

The jewelry display at the counter showcases an array of beautiful, quirky pieces, but what caught my eye most were the wood rings by Bay Area designer J. Fein Designs, which feature whimsical toppers like a gold butterfly, a cluster of white cloisonné flowers, and an inch of dangling gold mesh anchored by a graphic square design. Each ring is one of a kind, made with sustainably harvested wood and reclaimed (sometimes vintage) accents. If I’d known that Eco Citizen was so eco chic, I never would have waited so long to venture in!

Eco Citizen is hosting Local 415, a show featuring local designers, in-store on November 5th. Sign up for the mailing list on their web site for an invite.

Eco Citizen

1488 Vallejo St.

San Francisco, CA 94109

415.614.0100

Hours:

Tuesday-Saturday 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Sunday 12:00 p.m.– 6:00pm

www.ecocitizenonline.com

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Picnic – A Bite Sized Bit of Boutiquing

Russian Hill, San Francisco Boutique Pique

By: Nikki @ Boutiquing

Picnic’s sunny yellow-and-white striped awning and funky, colorful window display are great clues to what’s in store (ha!). The store, which occupies a petite space on Polk Street, sells apparel, jewelry and accessories (handbags, hats and scarves, NuBras) as well as home décor. The ambience is kitschy and cute, with glowing lamps highlighting platters and bowls full of knickknacks; the vibe is youthful, with brands like Free People, BCBGirls, To The Max, Tulle, LA Made and She-bible.

On my visit, I fell for a chunky knit shrug in dark gray (with attached rhinestone brooch!) by Dex and vibrant cobalt silk shell by Kersh. Thumbing through the racks, I imagined pairing a voluminous black She-bible mini dress with a cropped winter white wool jacket by Kersh. All of the jewelry at Picnic is made by local designers, including Yukako Ezoe, Zachary Pryor, blue wild indigo and more. The offerings range from carved plastic rings in bright hues, to wood and Lucite bangles, dangly feather earrings and multi-chain necklaces—all fun and fresh.

I’m a sucker for candles and home fragrances, and Picnic has a surprisingly generous selection of both—primarily in the Pacifica line, one of my favorites, with most items falling under $30. Picnic’s got a perennial sale section (bins and racks) in the back, which can be a bit haphazard, but if you’re willing to dig, you can find some killer deals.

Verdict: head on over to Picnic on your lunch hour—it’s a bite-sized, lunch-hour-long boutique with some satisfying snacks.

Picnic
1808 Polk Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
415.346.6556

Monday 12:00pm–6:00pm
Tuesday-Saturday 11:00am–8:00pm
Sunday 12:00am–6:00pm

www.picnicsf.com

Copyright 2009 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

Belle Cose - “Beautiful Things” is Right

Nob Hill, San Francisco Boutique Pique
By: Nikki @ Boutiquing

Belle Cose, which means “beautiful things” in Italian, is the perfect name for this boutique: it is indeed full of so many beautiful things I almost never walk out empty-handed. Located in one of three neighboring storefronts that connect on the interior, Belle Cose seamlessly transitions to Molte Cose (“many things”), a men’s boutique and vintage boutique with women’s fashion and household items, both of which are located in the two adjacent spaces.

Two things set Belle Cose apart from the rest. The first is its retro, romantic vibe. There are usually a few vintage pieces in the store, but most of the stock is new and vintage-inspired, with lots of ladylike, ultra-feminine pieces. From lacy lingerie to fitted cardigans and classic sheath dresses, Belle Cose is my go-to spot for frilly, girly things reminiscent of eras past.

The second distinction: great prices. I’ve often recognized other women from the neighborhood in here over the years, and it’s because Belle Cose is the kind of boutique you’d be just as likely to pop into on a walk as you might plan a special trip to look for something specific and unique. Either way, you’re likely to come out with something beautiful whether you’ve planned the trip or not, and whatever your budget.

Vintage wardrobes with their doors flung open wide hung collections of sheer blouses, tailored jackets and button-up boots, with pieces from Only Hearts, OnGossamer, Effie’s Heart (a Bay Area designer), BB Dakota and Nick & Mo. Felina, Betsey Johnson and Mary Green (a local San Francisco designer) lingerie hangs neatly along the wall, and scattered artfully across an upholstered vanity bench. Retro shoe picks from Very Volatile, Two Lips and Restricted appear atop vintage bureaus and alongside carefully arranged lingerie, jewelry, and fancy soaps. The effect is charming and inviting, as though you’ve just wandered into an elegant boudoir with an attentive staff who’s been expecting you all along.

Bella Cose
2036 Polk Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
415.474.3494

Hours:
Monday-Friday 11:00am–6:30pm
Saturday 11:00am–6:00pm
Sunday 12:00am–5:00pm

Copyright 2009 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

Boutique Local

By: April Madigan @ Boutiquing

I often daydream about my great boutiquing adventures...the small streets of Venice (all I have to say is....LEATHER), traversing NYC in search of that dress I saw in the magazine, the winding adobe lined streets of New Mexico, where I found my favorite, last for a lifetime, AMAZING belt...and a Halloween costume for my daughter – why not? In all of these experiences I reveled in feeling like one of the locals, chatting with shop owners, admiring their culture, and soaking it all in.

I am pretty sure very few of us are in a position to gallivant around Italy this year...and if we are, there will probably be no shopping, but I am comforted to know that I can continue having these experiences right here. Boutiquing in Laguna Beach, while comfortingly familiar, still takes on a vacation with the best of them feel – especially right now – gorgeous weather AND ample parking – nice! I also plan to head to previously undiscovered boutiquing destinations. I am excited to take in the beach scenes and relax while boutiquing for a day in Huntington Beach...sounds like an escape to me. Now is the time to rediscover the hidden gems we are surrounded by...and an added benefit...you get to come back anytime you want...no zip lock bag toting through security required!

Why Boutique Now?

By: April Madigan @ Boutiquing™

Everywhere we look, retailers are cutting jobs, reducing store hours, and closing multiple locations, if not closing completely. If this is what the "big guys" are facing, imagine what your favorite local boutique is up against. We have a real opportunity to make every dollar spent count right now. If there were ever a time to rally behind our local businesses, the time is now.

One look at the Orange County Register's OC Retail blog, and it is clear that many shopping options will be no more by the end of the year - or sooner.

Yikes. Target is great and all, but please let's hope there are other shopping options this time next year. So, buy that gift card for your coworker at her favorite boutique. It kills two birds with one stone! If boutique shopping makes you think of snobby shop girls and pricey price tags - fear not. A new and long overdue crop of customer service focused help has arrived at nearly every boutique around - and the prices are noticeably reduced across the board.

Don't forget to support and spread the word about your favorite little boutique - think of it as your own "local boutique stimulus plan" - and yes, you may quote that to your husband when justification is necessary.

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Would You Pay More?

By: Erin Hall @ Boutiquing

Raised by a savvy, frugal, fashion loving mother, I was taught to shop by a motto…You can buy one thing for a hundred dollars or you can buy multiple things for a hundred dollars. Being a young girl who liked choices and variety, I would always hunt for discounts so I could buy more. Yes, I choose quantity over quality at least 98% of the time (with the exception of my first pair of acid washed Guess jeans). What I did not realize was a root ideology formed and flourished well into my late twenties. I believed, for the same amount of money, it was more righteous to buy multiple inexpensive pieces that one expensive piece.

So what did this mentality cost me? Money. Wasted money. How many times did I buy four $25 tops on sale that didn’t fit just right but I couldn’t pass up a good deal? What if I had used that same $100 to buy a perfectly cut top that made me salivate just looking at it? It is no nobler to buy clothing at a great discount than full price when all it does is give a hanger in your closet job security.

About two years ago I read a small editorial about American buying trends and my mentality changed. Through reputable data and polling it was concluded that a vast majority of shoppers justify spending when they see “Sale” or “Discount". Subconsciously, Americans are driven to buy for the fear of missing a great deal. Here is what stood out to me most and I have adopted as my personal shopping mantra: To ensure you are getting a deal, and not just buying to buy, ask yourself this simple question, “Would I pay more for this?” If your answer is YES, then you are getting a deal…if it’s No, then you are buying with the wrong motivation.


Shop wiser, not more limited is my 2009 ideology. Refrain when it is not the right piece and wait for the score, that's how great wearable wardrobes are created. Remember it comes down to personal value. Does it fit right? Can you wear it with multiple pieces? Is it unique or a one of a kind statement piece? In this economy spending strategically is very important and that includes fashion. Don’t just buy because something is on sale and don’t NOT buy because something is a little pricey. Buy with your needs and budget in mind and don't forget the question is directed at YOU personally. This is not your mom’s, your best friend or the sales associates opinion, but “would YOU pay more?”

I’ve walked away from huge mistakes and therefore had the money to later purchase some of my favorite pieces with this new mentality. I hope this helps navigate your next shopping experience and enhances your wardrobe selections.