San Francisco
The No.1 city for brights, vintage and artisanal everything.
Acre/SF
It’s a literal hike to this hip new Telegraph Hill boutique (the sister to indie-designer store Acrimony). But edgy Funktional tops, Joomi Lim cuffs and stunning views make the climb seriously worth it. 301 Union St., 415-875-9590, acresf.com
Azalea
This is easily the best spot in town for cute, super-affordable staples—velvet blazers ($88), Blank skinny jeans ($81), Icco quilted bags ($54). 411 Hayes St., 415-861-9888, azaleasf.com
Bell Jar
Styled like a Victorian boudoir, this beloved Mission boutique specializes in all things super-girly—from flirty Dolce Vita dresses to Jane soaps and antique perfume bottles. 3187 16th St., 415-626-1749, belljarsf.com
Conifer
Former Built by Wendy sales director Amy Mautz fills her airy Cow Hollow shop with relaxed, on-trend clothing from Lauren Moffatt and Ace & Jig and the Rachel Comey boots you want to wear with them. 2848 Webster St., 415-922-1892, conifershop.com
Cris Consignment
The prices at this sophisticated boutique for pre-owned designer pieces are steep, but justly so. You won’t find vintage Dries Van Noten coats or Chanel heels in better condition. 2056 Polk St., 415-474-1191, crisconsignment.com
Eden & Eden
British owner Rachel Eden packs the best of London into her Jackson Square shop. Find Tatty Devine Lucite necklaces, Donna Willson printed pillows and Mimi English schoolgirl-style satchels. 560 Jackson St., 415-983-0490, edenandeden.com
Erica Tanov
No one captures San Francisco’s boho-chic aesthetic like this celebrated local designer. Her metallic-thread sweaters, flowy dresses and vintagey quilts perfectly blend free-spirited and luxe. 2408 Fillmore St., 415-674-1228, ericatanov.com
Gimme Shoes
The gorgeous, minimalist Fiorentini + Baker biker boots and Repetto leather flats aren’t cheap. But think of it this way: They’re practical enough to withstand the city’s hills. 416 Hayes St., 415-864-0691, gimmeshoes.com
Gravel & Gold
Its famous boob-print tote is an epic SF souvenir, but this mostly artisan shop’s tamer picks—Maria Schoettler calendars, Echo Park ceramics, craft-making classes—are equally memorable. 3266 21st St., 415-552-0112, gravelandgold.com
Held Over
When the flower-power-ness of Haight-Ashbury makes you crave a ’60s tee and cutoffs, head to this huge, affordable vintage mainstay for flowy ’70s dresses ($30), shredded Levi’s ($14) and tie-dye tops ($10). 1543 Haight St., 415-864-0818
