san francisco

After storage became an issue for prop stylist Rod Hipskind and photographer Kelly Ishikawa, they determined they could keep collecting flea market curios if they started selling off the rest of their loot. This brand-new spot is a moodily gorgeous showcase for their treasure-divining ability—plus, almost nothing tops $100.

Co-owner Rena Tom's original venture occupied a frustratingly tiny storefront in Brooklyn, but a late 2007 relocation to San Francisco ensured much more spacious digs. There's a truly great array of Karin Eriksson's delicate ceramics, Lena Corwin's coffee table books, and Three Sheets to the Wind's intricately patterned pillows.

This traveling sample sale has a permanent address in San Francisco, which means that you'll always find significantly slashed prices on labels like Vivienne Westwood.

Co-owner Jameson Alexander's sister owns Hayes Valley boutique Dish, and—since she made it look so fun—he decided to open up shop himself in late 2006. The front is full of cool art books and cleverly designed giftables and stationery, while the back serves as a small exhibit area for San Francisco artists.

Just over a year old, this discount boutique not only gives huge breaks on the designers it carries (Catherine Malandrino, Joe's Jeans, etc.), but it also donates 20 percent of sales to local nonprofits.