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United States Shopping
1111 Lincoln Road
Miami Beach , Florida
Tel: 305 538 9320
Designed by brilliant Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron (of Beijing's Bird's Nest fame), this mixed-use building at the corner of Alton Road and Lincoln Road is generating excitement for its design as well as the celebrated retailers it's bringing to South Beach's popular pedestrian promenade. Fronted by a Portuguese-style plaza on Lincoln Road, the minimalist glass-and-concrete structure looms like a futuristic layered wedding cake—part parking garage, part shopping and dining experience. The property is still a work in progress, with more retailers to come throughout 2010. For now, shop for surprisingly affordable design gadgets such as Danish wall clocks and edgy bottle openers at Inkanta, luxe underthings at Manhattan-based lingerie boutique Journelle, and art books from renowned German publisher Taschen. Other on-site retailers include Nespresso, MAC cosmetics, and urban streetwear depot Adidas Y-3. Local fashion boutiques (including Erika Cohen's Alchemist), as well as Brazilian and Italian designer shops, are slated to open here, too. Three restaurants, among them Florida's first outpost of New York–based Shake Shack, are also in the works.—Terry Ward
701 Eighth Avenue
San Diego , California
Tel: 619 236 0364
Downtown San Diego's premier streetwear sanctum for gents is 5&A Dime. Sneakerheads flock to this soi-disant haberdashery for Brixton Ltd. fedoras, Lurkville skateboards, and Crooks & Castles threads. Inside, a giant buffalo bust competes with vintage Singer sewing machines, hardbound books, and massive pretzel tins for American Picker–style decor honors, while cubbies stocked with cult-followed kicks and a lifetime's worth of tees lure the more stylish of the Petco Park crowd. Save for a smattering of watches, knapsacks, and shades (including the piping-hot Raen line), the store has quit carrying women's gear—but the cabinet full of Super7 monster toys from SF's Japantown play nice with both fanboys and -girls.—Audrey Davidow
Open Mondays through Saturdays noon to 8 pm, Sundays noon to 7 pm.
211 Worth Avenue
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 835 9139
There is a glut of overpriced/under-quality antique dealers in Palm Beach that cater to the crowd of part-time residents who need to spruce up the manse. A. B. Levy is a rare exception. Owner Albert Levy set up shop here in 1989 and travels the world for first-rate pieces, mostly French Gilded Age and Louis XVIstyle furniture. The price tags are still hefty, but fair.
881 and 888 Broadway
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 473 3000
Despite the fact that the average New Yorker's apartment could generously be compared to a shoebox, the residents of Gotham sure do love their homewares. And nowhere do they more seriously indulge their passion for furnishings, light fixtures, rugs, antiques, draperies, and every kind of big-ticket tchotchke under the sun than at ABC Carpet & Home. Spread across multiple floors and two stores, the beautiful merchandising suggests little environments that could easily be transposed straight into a New York loft. Silk pillows, handblown glass, artfully scuffed French country furniture, delicate glass chandeliers—add several floors worth of exquisite rugs and floor treatments and you have the makings of a swoonworthy afternoon's shopping. The best part: They ship all around the globe. If you're looking for a bargain, you can make the trek up to their outlet store in the Bronx (1055 Bronx River Avenue, 718-842-8772).
Open Mondays through Thursdays 10 am to 3 pm, Fridays 10 am to 6:30 pm, Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, and Sundays noon to 6:30 pm.
357 W. Chicago Avenue
Chicago , Illinois
Tel: 312 944 3085
True to its name, this River North bookstore specializes in what's known as "Lincolniana," but its purview is broader in scope, and includes a museum-quality selection of Civil War–era rare books, photographs, pamphlets, cartes de visite, and reasonably priced first editions. Not surprisingly, it's popular with scholars and professional collectors, but the knowledgeable and exceptionally friendly staff is just as happy to assist armchair historians looking to make their first purchase.
Open Mondays through Wednesdays and Fridays 9 am to 5 pm, Thursdays 9 am to 7 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 4 pm.
795 Montauk Highway
Montauk , New York
Tel: 631 668 0356
The East End's go-to surf shop isn't quaint or retro—quite simply, it's got the goods. That means polarized sunglasses by Oakley and Maui Jim, racks of wet suits and sporty swim trunks, and Freestyle and Rip Curl watches. Air and Speed may be the first choice of pros like Kelly Slater when they're in the area, but the shop caters to all ability levels and even to non-surfers. (Some customers just swing by for a gander and some sunblock.) Buying a board will set you back from $550 to $1,200; rentals are also available of soft-top longboards, epoxy short boards, and stand-up paddleboards—as well as Electra beach cruisers, in case you feel like riding something that's not a wave.—Darrell Hartman
Open daily 9 am to 6 pm, high season; 10 am to 4 pm, off-season.
Santa Barbara , California
Tel: 805 448 9057
Locals who've grown bored with their Frette are over the moon about Alessandra Polottos, who creates customized fine linens with embroidery copied from almost anything, from a photo to a painted teacup. From a textile family in Milan, Alessandra has an eye for quality fabrics and finishing. Made from Italian linen or Egyptian cotton, the place mats, napkins, tablecloths, and bed linens are hand-embroidered by several women in Tuscany whose stitching skills have been passed down for generations. A custom-designed place mat can take several weeks for the embroidery, while a tablecloth might require as long as two monthsprices range from $300 for a single place mat to $1,200 for a queen-size set of linen sheets.
101 Pine Street
Seattle , Washington
Tel: 206 621 0568
This Moroccan-inspired space is a fitting showcase for unique women's clothing, jewelry, and accessories culled from established and up-and-coming international designers. Pieces are displayed on steamer trunks and in exquisite display cases set off by Moorish ironwork. Everything has a fine, handcrafted look: wispy camisoles with intricate lacework, beaded skirts, embroidered boots. But be forewarned: It's pricey (a pity, because you'll want everything in the store).
88 Dukes County Avenue
Oak Bluffs , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 696 7429
In this small converted fire station, just outside the center of Oak Bluffs, the island's personable star photographer, Alison Shaw, exhibits her dazzling images of island scenes in weekly revolving shows based on colors or other themes (food, for instance). Since her studio is right upstairs, she'll often come to the door to show you around herself.
State Road
West Tisbury , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 693 0088
The oldest operating retail business on Martha's Vineyard, this authentic New England general store occupies a restored 1858 building operated by the Martha's Vineyard Preservation Trust. It's bursting with upscale foods to stock your cottage or your picnic basket. And even if you don't need a scrub brush or a book for the beach, stop in for a cup of coffee and take a seat on the porch. The crowded bulletin boards are the first place to look for notices about area events and activities.
1458 Haight Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 552 5095
An Aladdin's cave of sequins, flowers, polka dots, ruffles, and ribbons, Ambiance is a girly-girl's paradise. With the help of friendly saleswomen, SF fashionistas find all the dresses they ever dreamed of here, from vintage-inspired cocktail outfits to spaghetti-strapped summer frocks. Ambiance also carries tops, skirts, and jeans, as well as pretty accessories. It gets crowded here on weekends.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, Sundays 11 am to 7 pm.
520 E. Durant Avenue
Aspen , Colorado
Tel: 970 920 7700
This shop sells an exquisitely curated selection of tabletop, one-of-a-kind, and limited-edition pieces, as well as whimsical gifts. Drop by when you need something that is truly one-of-a-kind.—by Samantha Berman
1855 Haight Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 831 1200
A music junkie's paradise, Amoeba has an encyclopedic selection of new and used CDs, as well as DVDs, music posters, LPs, and 45s. Everyone from pierced club kids to aging Deadheads comes here to offload their used CDs for cash or trade then stay for hours to browse. Unlike Virgin and other media mega-stores, Amoeba has an extremely knowledgeable and helpful staff, many of whom moonlight as musicians or DJs. Plus, there are live in-store performances every week (sometimes local bands, sometimes major phenoms like DJ Shadow).
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10:30 am to 10 pm, Sundays 11 am to 9 pm.
122 Grant Avenue
Santa Fe , New Mexico
Tel: 505 984 1234
After admiring Alfred Stieglitz's black-and-white photographs at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum head next door and pick up your own print at Andrew Smith. This is Smith's second location; his first, on West San Francisco, has been selling world-class original photography since 1995 (203 W. San Francisco). In both locations you'll find stunning works by Stieglitz—his The Hand of Man, which depicts a stream train barreling out of a depot, is priced at $110,000—as well as one of the largest Ansel Adams collections in the world. There are also newer works by the likes of Annie Leibovitz (check out the shot of a wrinkled Willie Nelson); Herman Leonard (a massive print of Billie Holiday), and Miguel Gandert, a New Mexican who specializes in native cultures.
Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm.
3860 Tamiami Trail North
Naples , Florida
Tel: 239 262 3362
Gayle Gordon Nering's shop on Tamiami Trail is a treasure chest of exclusive Italian bed linens, silk pillows, cashmere throws, plus fine table linens from Portugal.
Closed Sundays.
2308 Edgewater Drive
Orlando , Florida
Tel: 407 649 8007
Artist Shirley Krauklis brings a fun spin on home decor to this College Park store. Every seasonal event you can imagine gets prime coverage at Annabelle Hart: Oversize wooden pumpkins and turkeys are top picks during the fall months, and unique ocean-themed tree ornaments (the jellyfish are particularly lovely) and lights shaped like comical water bubbles cause a decorating frenzy come Christmastime. Year-round, the top sellers are oh-so-Florida items like shell frames, jellyfish lamps, and lanterns made from driftwood. Soy candles in unexpected scents like Spanish moss make great hostess gifts.—Terry Ward
324 Kamani Street
Honolulu , Hawaii
Tel: 808 589 1135
Hawaiian-born Namba has designed for the costume department of Radio City Music Hall, lived in exotic locales like Thailand and Iran, and traveled extensively in Japan. Now back in Honolulu, she brings her disparate influences together in her clothing designs: dramatic bustiers, floaty tunics, and body-skimming gowns stitched from silky, kimono-print fabrics.
3279 M Street N.W.
Washington, D.C.
Tel: 202 298 5555
Sorry, bagel lovers. Contrary to its quirky moniker, this store is not selling breakfast spreads. Instead, you'll find more than 5,000 pieces of designer duds hailing from the 1940s till today in this huge, 3,200-square-foot vintage store. You could spend hours flipping through the well-organized racks of old-school attire, from dainty '50s prom dresses to mod Pucci caftans. The hot pink walls and massive gilded mirrors create a decidedly girly, "let's play dress-up" vibe, making this a playful foil to Georgetown's more serious boutiques.Colleen Clark
Open Sundays through Thursdays 10 am to 11 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to midnight.
801–877 North Howard Street
Baltimore , Maryland
Several centuries' worth of collectibles are wedged into this 100-yard stretch of shops in a residential area just northwest of posh Mount Vernon, about a mile and a half from the Inner Harbor along the light-rail line. Options range from Dubey's Art & Antiques (807 N. Howard; 410-383-2882; dubeysantiques.com), which specializes in Chinese export porcelain, and Imperial Half Bushel (831 N. Howard; 410-462-1192; imperialhalfbushel.com), an expert in American and European silver.
Phoenix + Scottsdale , Arizona
The main antiquing area in Phoenix is in the quadrant between Seventh Street and Seventh Avenue, and McDowell and Camelback. Stuff Antiques has uncommon items such as the perfect vintage doorknob or antique bed frame (4206 N. Central Ave.; 602-266-1967). Down the street, one of the smallest but greatest stores, Modern Lighting, is packed to the hilt (chairs are hung from the ceiling) with everything from cameras to silverware and, yes, lights (5016 N. Central Ave.; 602-248-4908). The owner, Petey, makes the place feel more like a barbershop with his penchant for gossip and storytelling. Like Palm Springs, Phoenix is becoming known for midcentury modern furniture. The pick of the half-dozen shops is Red Modern Furniture, with museum-quality pieces in an amazing 1956 building (201 E. Camelback Rd.; 602-256-9620; www.redmodernfurniture.com). Chat about the latest Sotheby's auction with owner Jonathan Wayne and then browse his girlfriend's corner of the store, Mint Vintage Clothing. If you're looking for quantity, go to Scottsdale's Antique Trove, one of the biggest antique emporiums in the Valley (2020 N. Scottsdale Rd.; 480-947-6074; www.antiquetrove.com).
West Palm Beach , Florida
It's not as tony as Palm Beach, of course, but venture across the bridge to West Palm Beach for the killer antique stores on South Dixie Highway. Elizabeth Bonan's Pierre Anthony Antiques specializes in 17th- to 20th-century furniture (3638 South Dixie Highway; 561-832-0556; www.pierreanthonyantiques.com; closed Sundays). Christa's South Seashells is devoted to shells, in everything from knickknacks to dramatic fountains. (3737 South Dixie Highway; 561-655-4650; www.csseashell.com; closed Sundays). Donovan & Gray Antiques sells excellent vintage fashions from Hermès, Gucci, and other designers (3623 South Dixie Highway; 561-838-4442; open Friday and Saturday in high season or by appointment).
The Hamptons (especially Sag Harbor and Hampton Bays) are renowned for top-notch antiques outlets, and with good reason. You'll find everything from museum-quality heirlooms to 1950s ephemera to midcentury furniture. The standouts include Good Ground Antique Center, where you can pick up costume jewelry and vintage patio furniture for a song, and Jed, which specializes in theatrical and expensive chinoiserie-inflected designs, such as an elegant ebonized bamboo mirror and midcentury modern finds like an upholstered Robsjohn-Gibbings chaise. The ultimate resource, however, is East Hampton Yard Sale, where proprietor Vincent Manzo's curated mix of well-priced objects (garden statuary, lamp fixtures, vintage posters, and more) comes with plenty of local gossip. The Hamptons also regularly hosts antiques sales, including the annual Historic Mulford Farm Antiques Show & Sale in East Hampton.—Updated by Darrell Hartman
Cornerstone Place
23582 Highway 121
Schellville , California
Tel: 707 933 0660
A warehouse-like space adjacent to Sonoma's Cornerstone Gardens, Artefact is stuffed with dramatic and unusual objects found around the world by owner Dave Allen. The artful and exotic inventory is ever-changing, but expect to find items like 19th- and 20th-century clock faces from European train stations; giant hand-carved stonework from India; twelve-foot-tall parlor doors with rich, weathered patinas; wooden spires from long-gone churches; tattered, sculptural cargo ropes from Holland; and limestone fountains and basalt birdbaths from France. Prices range from pocket change to tens of thousands of dollars.
Open daily 10 am to 5 pm.
Jackson , Wyoming
Critics and collectors have begun to herald Jackson Hole as the new art capital of the West (sorry, Sante Fe). There are now more than 30 galleries downtown, making for a great walking tour. Perusers will find everything from abstract art to landscape photography to classic wildlife sculptures. One of the most popular is the Images of Nature Gallery, where wildlife photographer Thomas D. Mangelsen displays his work. If the images of wading elk, frolicking polar bear cubs, and soaring owls seem vaguely familiar, that's because you've probably seen them on greeting cards, posters, and wall calendars all over the country. But even if the photos have a certain sentimentality to them, they're undeniably gorgeous (170 N. Cache Dr.; 307-733-9752 or 888-238-0177; www.mangelsen.com.)
Scottsdale , Arizona
The best way for art collectors to compare galleries in Scottsdale is to attend the weekly Art Walk on Thursdays from 7 to 9 pm. It takes place in downtown Scottsdale along Main Street and Marshall Way (480-990-3939; www.scottsdalegalleries.com). Of course, there's free wine from the 50 or so participating galleries to help lubricate checkbooks. Although contemporary art has a smaller niche in these parts, Bentley Gallery attracts collectors of all tastes (4161 N. Marshall Way; 480-946-6060; www.bentleygallery.com). If you're looking for affordable art, check out Art One, which represents university students and emerging artists (4120 N. Marshall Way; 480-946-5076; www.artonegalleryinc.com). But if you've come to Scottsdale seeking the tradition of the American West, Legacy Gallery on Main Street has a long history of representing past and present western painters and sculptors (7178 Main St., 800-916-3003 or 480-945-1113; www.legacygallery.com). Overland Gallery of Fine Art reps local artist Ed Mell, who the international art community adores for his sharp, angular depictions of Southwestern imagery (7155 Main St.; 800-920-0220 or 480-947-1934; www.overlandgallery.com). A bit odd, but the gallery also has a very large Russian and Soviet Impressionism collection.
Seattle , Washington
Seattle is a port town, the end point for cargo ships chugging their way across the Pacific from Asia, so it's a prime spot to pick up antiques and other treasures from the Far East. Your first stop should be Honeychurch, an insider's source for high-quality Asian antiques dating from the fifth millennium B.C. up to the first half of the 20th century. Among the items on display are 18th-century Japanese furniture, Han Dynasty burial figures from China, and 14th-century Vietnamese porcelain discovered in an early shipwreck (411 Westlake Ave. N.; 206-622-1225; www.honeychurch.com). Down the road is its warehouse, the 18,000-square-foot Glenn Richards. Prices are generally less steep here, as there are fewer rare items and more contemporary designs, as well as garden objects and newer architectural elements from India and the Philippines (964 Denny Way; 206-287-1877; www.glennrichards.com). The serious (read: deep-pocketed) collector shouldn't miss Kagedo Japanese Art, where exquisite works by Japanese modern masters—lacquered stationery boxes, woven bamboo baskets, and intricately carved okimono (small bronze, ivory, or wooden sculptures)—shine within museumlike glass displays (520 First Ave. S.; 206-467-9077; www.kagedo.com).
3101 Sacramento Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 928 1287
Known for its eclectic collection of unusual finds, Bae specializes in home furnishings ranging from Asian porcelain lamps and crystal candlesticks to high-end bath salts and small tabletop items that easily stuff into a suitcase. It's the perfect place to pick up a whimsical gift—perhaps a picture frame of alabaster or horn, or a salt-and-pepper shaker set of carved shell. Unlike some of the shops further up Sacramento Street in Presidio Heights, Bae stocks great gifts for under $30. And fear not: If you fall in love with a gorgeous lead-crystal floor lamp, they'll be happy to ship it home for you.—Updated by John Vlahides
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
423 First Street West
Sonoma , California
Tel: 707 939 2847
Baksheesh specializes in handcrafted gifts and housewares from the developing world. Committed to fair trade and to supporting disadvantaged artisans, the store culls gorgeous one-of-a-kind items from countries throughout Asia, Africa, South America, and the Middle East: coiled bamboo platters from Vietnam, Mayan-inspired ceramic vases from Peru, Indian block-printed tablecloths, and musical instruments from Cameroon. One of the most popular items is a trivet made out of recycled newspaper, from the Philippines. With each purchase, you'll be doing good—and you'll want everything in the store. Other stores are located in Healdsburg (106B Matheson St; 707-473-0880) and St. Helena (1327 Main St.; 707-968-9182).
209 South Galena Street
Aspen , Colorado
Tel: 970 920 9797
With modern and contemporary art for show and sale in a cool space on South Galena, this gallery attracts a certain buzz by hosting unorthodox and controversial artists. Look for Meet the Artist events at the start of many of the exhibits.—by Samantha Berman
660 Madison Avenue
Midtown East
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 826 8900
What makes Barneys New York a must-stop for the fashion-forward isn't the comprehensive selection of popular designers (Prada, Manolo Blahnik) or the witty window displays (which would stop any New Yorker in her stilettos). Rather, it's the store's unerring eye for emerging talent. The noteworthy selection takes shape on the main level with jewelry from Lanvin and Sevan, plus a well-curated mix of handbags from brands like Miu Miu and Devi Kroell. In the basement, the revamped beauty level offers the entire lineup of L'Artisan Parfumeur, and cult faves Frédéric Malle and Care by Stella McCartney. While high fashion comes with the uptown prices you'd expect, private label Barneys Collectionformerly helmed by New York fashion darling Behnaz Sarafpourhas more affordable separates and tailored outerwear. Barneys got its start in the 1920s as a men's store, so it's no surprise that the gent's department is an incubator of cool, best known for its made-to-measure dress shirts and edgy accessories, including Berluti shoes and buttery-soft men's bags from Leonello Borghi.
The cheeky, youth-oriented spin-off, Barneys Co-Op, offers a more accessible version of the Barneys experience, be it through vibrant print dresses from London designer Duro Olowu or sustainable fashion from Edun. The basement level is devoted to denim of every stripe, from 18th Amendment to Helmut Lang. Bargain hunters, take note: When Barneys cleans out seasonal merchandise, prices are often slashed over 50 percent at the biannual warehouse sale in Chelsea.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
939 Lincoln Road
South Beach
Miami Beach , Florida
Tel: 305 531 4982
Like a beachfront version of Paris' famed Colette, this concept store—helmed by dancer-turned-retailer Steven Giles—is one of the best spots in town for browsing. It's crammed with men's clothes, books, objets, a CD listening station, and even a hair salon, Snip. Labels rotate regularly, but expect an intellectual collection of European and American labels such as Fred Perry, Rogan, and Y-3. The music's a standout, too—no wonder, when one employee's full-time gig is "media research" (hunting down obscure, worthwhile tunes for the listening bar). There's been a closet-sized sequel inside the Delano Hotel) since summer 2005, but in March 2007, Base spawned a full-size satellite branch, Base Annex. In a former law office a block or so away from the original, the annex is a warren of rooms laid out like the private home of an eccentric, reclusive millionaire. The stock focuses on women's clothes and accessories, plus art world–worthy furniture: Look for chandeliers by Tobias Wong and chairs from Fornasetti among the Vivienne Westwood and Comme des Garçons duds (927 Lincoln Rd., Ste. 118; 305-695-4026).
Open daily until 10 p.m. (11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays).
21 West Fir Street
San Diego , California
Tel: 619 795 4585
This sunny pampering parlor set in a charming garden cottage in Downtown Little Italy offers up everything a gal could need for full-body and soul prettifying. A boutique sells flirty dresses and one-of-a-kind finds from local designers, and the salon offers facials, waxing, makeup, and manicures. Once you're all dolled up, rendezvous with your pals in the Jardim, a jasmine-scented garden set up for tea parties and other girly fests.—Audrey Davidow
Open Mondays and Tuesdays and Thursdays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm.
754 Fifth Avenue
Midtown East
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 753 7300
Most department stores have cloned themselves endlessly, populating malls all over America. But there is only one Bergdorf Goodman. In fact, it has such significance in fashion circles that most designers would choose Bergdorf's if forced to display their wares in only one place. The original store and the Men's Store across Fifth Avenue house every important fashion name, both classic and cutting-edge, along with exquisite accessories, jewelry, and haute items for the home. Check out the fifth-floor womenswear (known as 5F) for a comprehensive range of affordable, buzz-worthy names such as Jason Wu and Alexander Wang, along with labels like Theyskens' Theory by Belgian wunderkind Olivier Theyskens. The young designer formerly helmed Rochas and Nina Ricci, and his streamlined designs for the popular mass brand Theory tend to send fashion devotees into a swoon. Recharge at the salonlike Kelly Wearstler–designed BG restaurant on the 7th floor.
Open Mondays through Fridays 10 am to 8 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, and Sundays noon to 6 pm.
224 W. Colorado Avenue
Telluride , Colorado
Tel: 970 728 4504
One of Telluride's two bookstores, this "Main Street" store specializes in guidebooks on Colorado and the West. There's an espresso bar in back.
Open Mondays through Fridays 8 am to 9 pm, Saturdays and Sundays 9 am to 9 pm.
316 Fifth Avenue
Park Slope
Brooklyn , New York
Tel: 718 768 4940
Subway: F train to Seventh Avenue
Bird brands itself as one of Brooklyn's first fashion destinations. That may be something of a stretch, but it certainly was a pioneer when it set up shop in Park Slope in 1999. It still has its finger on the pulse of the city's mercurial fashion trends and feels utterly fresh amid a crop of arrivistes. Up-and-coming designers such as Brooklyn-based Apiece Apart and eco-friendly Bodkin woo a rabidly devoted clientele. And heavy-hitters including Isabel Marant and Alexander Wang, add some high-end polish to the whimsical mix of clothes, handbags, shoes, and accessories. Two additional outposts are located in Cobble Hill and Williamsburg.
Open Monday through Saturday noon to 8 pm, Sunday noon to 6 pm.
214 South Cedros Avenue
Solana Beach , California
Tel: 858 436 7214
A haven for upscale coastal nesters, this breezy Solana Beach boutique is set up to look like your dream cottage. Outside the place is decked with beachy white shingles and blue awnings. Inside the quaint 1920s bungalow is filled with all the essentials of hip seaside living—nix the anchors and life preservers in favor of Matteo linens, John Robshaw textiles, Kai candles, and pretty gifts galore. Owners Betsy Bracken and Melissa Anderson also offer interior-design and event-planning services.—Audrey Davidow
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays 11 am to 5 pm.
Black Ink started out by selling only rubber stamps and papers. But it has since expanded into an eclectic "design laboratory," with floor-to-ceiling shelves full of industrial products, Japanese trinkets, card and board games from your childhood, finger puppets, coffee mugs, origami kits, brainteasers, and other imaginative stuff you never knew you needed.—Jon Marcus
Charles Street location: Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6. Harvard Square location: Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 8 pm, Sundays 11 am to 7 pm.
923 State Street
Santa Barbara , California
Tel: 805 897 1137
Since launching this independent boutique selling women's contemporary-casual labels, John Doucette and Marty Bebout have been adding spin-off shops on a regular basis. Honeycomb features unique garments and a mix of established and hot new designers that includes Burning Torch, Great China Wall, Mandalay, Marc Jacobs handbags, and jewelry from Loree Rodkin and Erickson Beamon. Honeycomb connects with Blue Bee Shoes, the ultimate shoe lover's haven (1100 State Street; 805-965-1956). Blue Bee Jeans is a high-end atelier for the jeans connoisseur; it's packed with 50 designer-denim labels from Stitch's and Paige Jeans to True Religion, a large collection of Splendid tees, and fabulous jewelry including Me&Ro and M2 (913 State Street; 805-882-2468). Blue Beetle has a mellow vibe (no hard sell) and the best in new and cutting-edge menswear without being trendy. Look for Mossimo's chic label Modern Amusement, Generic Youth t-shirts from Jeff Yokoyama, a full line of Diesel wear, and thermal-lined Ever hoodies (925 State Street; 805-965-1617).
305 Canyon Street
West Yellowstone , Montana
Tel: 406 646 7642
With Yellowstone National Park and the Madison and Gallatin rivers nearby, West Yellowstone deserves a great fly shopand it's got one. After more than 25 years, owner Craig Matthews, a genuine trout fanatic and ardent conservationist, certainly has the local hatches dialed in and can recommend the best flies, including some of his own design.
720 Fifth Avenue South
Naples , Florida
Tel: 239 262 6358
No need for embarrassment—you'll be thrilled to go out of the house with a pair of mismatched Bob Baker shoes. Custom-detailed flats and medium-high heels with different-colored toes, bows, and side trim in complementary colors are the specialty here. There are also dragonfly shoe clips in gold, silver, or enamel; sweaters hand-painted by a local artist; and a full range of cork items—flats, medium-high heels, pumps, and handbags to match.
927 Lincoln Road
South Beach
Miami Beach , Florida
Tel: 305 532 3222
In a town that often seems to prioritize sunning ahead of reading, this homegrown outlet stands out. The small South Beach branch stocks coffee-table books and a smattering of new fiction and nonfiction titles. Grab one of the shaded tables outside on Lincoln Road, and chow down on sandwiches by day and more elaborate fare such as scallops in coconut-shrimp sauce every evening. In late 2008, the store, pushed aside by a Diesel flagship, moved into a courtyard a few feet off Lincoln Road, but it's still there. There's also a second (bigger) location in Coral Gables, with smart staff and an intriguing selection of books, as well as a pleasant café for sandwiches and snacks (265 Aragon Ave.; 305-442-4408).
Open Mondays through Thursdays 10 am to 11 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to midnight.
2329 Lillie Avenue
Summerland , California
Tel: 805 565 3831
New York design bigwig Charlotte Moss makes these side-by-side home decor bungalows in the sleepy beach town of Summerland a must-stop whenever she's in town. Nate Berkus browses here, when shopping for Oprah's Montecito digs. And so do Rob Lowe and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. One cottage is dedicated to all things for or inspired by the gardenfrom vintage containers and Moroccan lanterns to rare orchid specimens, boxwood topiaries, and tabletop succulent gardens. Next door you'll find homemade accessories from all over the world, including Alpaca throws from Peru, artisan-crafted dishware from San Miguel, and the store's own line of organic fabrics in earthy tones and botanical prints. It's pretty expensive, but fun to explore.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 5:30 pm.
Charleston , South Carolina
Broad Street has always been Charleston's formal seat of powerthe courthouse and long-standing legal firms line the sidewalksbut it's also the place where artists set up shop in the historic storefronts. Most are members of the French Quarter Gallery Associationa reference to Charleston's historic French Huguenot neighborhood, not the fabled New Orleans neighborhood. The organization holds art walks during fall and spring with artist lectures and wine and cheese receptions. Their Web site also has a handy map of the 30 or so galleries in the area. Obviously there is no shortage of showrooms that specialize in Lowcountry imagery (landscapes, coastal abstracts, Carolina wildlife, Charleston scenes). The best stuff is at the Edward Dare Gallery, which deals in Jim Darlington's architectural watercolor works, Beth McLean's Impressionistic giclée prints, and photographer Susan Lucas's black-and-white portrait photography. Devotees of more functional artwork should make their way to Rivendell Woodworks, where the emphasis is on Arts and Crafts furniture, ceramics, and textiles.
Edward Dare Gallery open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 5 pm.
Rivendell Woodworks open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 5 pm.
176 Lafayette Avenue
Fort Greene
Brooklyn , New York
Subway: A/C to Lafayette Avenue
Every weekend, over 100 vendors gather under the Brooklyn Flea banner to sell all manner of cool stuff—from vintage and locally designed duds to antique furniture; arts and crafts; and food, glorious food (we recommend the fresh fruit and herb combo popsicles by People's Pops and Asia Dog's beef, chicken, and veggie franks with yummy toppings like Japanese curry and shredded kimchi apples). Plan on spending a couple of hours browsing and chatting with the vendors—it's a great way to plug into the Brooklyn scene. The Flea is held outdoors in Fort Greene on Saturdays (rain or shine) and indoors at 1 Hanson, the former Williamsburgh Savings Bank, on Sundays. Every Friday at noon, the list goes up on the market's Web site of the vendors taking part that weekend.—Nicola McCormack
Open Saturdays and Sundays 10 am to 5 pm.
323A Race Streeet
Philadelphia , Pennsylvania
Tel: 215 922 6041
The moniker refers to the Belgian proclivity for bringing nature into interior design, although the selection of wares at this high-end home-furnishing emporium spans the globe. There might be handcrafted sofas from California-based design studio Oly; brightly patterned cosmetic bags from Uchi, a Japanese bag company; framed insects from globe-trotting artist Christopher Marley; or found objects, like a striking weathered wood rice mill salvaged from Southeast Asia. To some, that antique Brazilian barrel is just a $2,000 piece of driftwood, but the dear prices don't stop couples with unconventional (and expensive) tastes from adding outré Italian Gervasoni dishware and French Bleu Nature benches (modern pieces that incorporate branches and rough-finished tree trunks) to their wedding registries. The store is just off North 3rd Street, Philly's main drag for independent boutiques, and plenty of historical sites, such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, are also nearby.
Open Mondays by appointment, Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
More than ten years after first being "discovered" by bohos and style-makers, the neighborhood has earned its high-hip status with the city's most exuberant boutiques, galleries, cafés, and indie-rock bars. The area is a couple miles northwest of the Loop and is anchored by the intersection of North, Damen, and Milwaukee avenues.
Begin at Hejfina, where the smartly edited collection veers from men's and women's labels (most popular: Acne Jeans from Sweden) to exhibitions by local artists to pared-down furniture. Intent on outfitting your inner outlaw, Bonnie and Clyde's is the only Chicago boutique to feature Project Runway winner Jeffrey Sebelia's Cosa Nostra line. But it's the very witty Vlieger & Vandam bags (one purse comes printed with the entire skeletal X-ray of a small dog) that put the shop on the edgy map.
Stop in at the neighboring Hot Chocolate for cakes, shakes, and warm brioche donuts—or just grab some sandwich cookies from the takeout counter. Then head to Apartment Number 9 for menswear by Dries Van Noten, Etro, and Paul Smith. P. 45 has innovative, global women's labels (Phillip Lim, Ulla Johnson, Michelle Mason), plus some local jewelry designers you've never heard of—yet. Stitch is crowded with glazed Tampopo tableware, Votivo candles, and striped, jewel-toned Missoni wool throws.
For more of a patina, try Pagoda Red, where beaming Buddhas and antique yet eminently modern-looking Chinese chests, coffers, and chairs stand ready to furnish your loft. At Reckless Records, the tireless staff will help you sift through vinyl and rare box sets of jazz, soul, and, of course, indie recordings. End up at Trillium, where the haul (primarily women's fashions from brands like Joie, Cynthia Vincent, and Vince, plus J.W. Hulme bags) showcases preppy classics with a tomboy subtext.—Updated by Raphael Kadushin
80 Industrial Parkway
Burlington , Vermont
Tel: 802 660 3200
Shopping for snowboarding gear at the Burton Flagship Store is the snow-sliding equivalent of flying to Germany to buy your BMW: A value-added shopping experience. Formerly known as Burton's Factory Outlet, the store also has the latest bindings, boards, and apparel.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 8 pm, Sundays 11 am to 6 pm.
524 N. Lamar
Austin , Texas
Tel: 512 472 5951
This retailer has served Austin's (admittedly small) fashion-forward crowd for some 25 years. In 2001, husband-and-wife team Matthew and Katy Culmo consolidated their men's and women's stores to provide chic clothes and accessories, creating a one-stop shop for software execs and stylish profs. The owners handpick collections each season, with everything from designer dresses from Nicole Farhi to Seven jeans.
336 South County Road
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 888 677 4261
Lilly Pulitzer, the reigning resident doyenne, made the brightly patterned shift dress synonymous with the Palm Beach look and thus launched a global empire. Now you'll find her trademark colorsfuchsia and lime greenon everything from clothes to accessories to lifestyle products for all ages. Sift through umpteen Lilly styles, as well as engagement and entertaining books, at this boutique.
1136 S.W. Alder Street
Portland , Oregon
Tel: 503 889 8545
It's hard to do justice to Canoe's eclectic collection of stylish housewares, designer gadgets, and hip trinkets. At first glance, it might seem like there's not much to be found in the spare, airy space, but soon enough you find yourself browsing the design booksand then the pretty ceramic bowls and delicate glassware on the shelvesand then you find yourself captivated by the myriad curios on the shelvesGerman condom dispensers, Japanese stationery and mugs, Swiss travel salt-and-pepper shakers. Even a stack of blank memo pads tied with ribbon somehow becomes a must-have accessory in this setting. And finally you're coveting each and every perfectly crafted, thoughtfully designed object. Beware: You're unlikely to leave empty-handed.
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
This lovely lane is one of the oldest roads in Santa Fe, established when the Spaniards settled in the 1600s. These days the old adobe houses lining the mile-long narrow road are mostly fine art galleries. Devote an afternoon to poking your head in, and don't miss the many backyard sculpture gardens. You'll find vintage Western art at Zaplin Lampert, with original oils by Frederic Remington. For a look at up-and-coming painters, pop into the beautiful space at Selby Fleetwood, which sells Dennis Hartley's gorgeous abstract barns, and Nathalie Guarracinto's textured oil paintings. Similarly, Gallery Moda shows a number of modern masters from Rauschenberg to Lichtenstein. The whimsical world of Hahn Ross is populated by crocodile sculptures made from typewriter parts and expression-filled sculptures of bemused-looking Native Americans by New Mexican Pueblo artist Roxanne Swentzell. When you're ready for a break, grab a beer on the deck of El Farol, Santa Fe's oldest bar (808 Canyon Rd.; 505-983-9912; www.elfarolsf.com).
380 N.W. 13th Avenue
Portland , Oregon
Tel: 503 209 8349
The oversize Technicolor pom-poms that garland the exterior of Cargo's warehouse-like building in the Pearl District hint at the quirky wonderland of home design goods sold here. Inside, the walls are hot pink, and vintage rickshaws bursting with inflatable toys hang from the ceiling next to Tibetan prayer banners and rusted Japanese soda advertisements. You can buy everything from seed-beaded African chairs to antique globes, cheap ethnic jewelry to Chinese lanterns. It's a store full of things you never knew you had to have, most of it very reasonably priced.—Colleen Clark
Open daily 11 am to 6 pm.
93 Wythe Avenue
Brooklyn , New York
Tel: 718 384 6890
Subway: L train to Bedford Avenue
Christopher Brosius launched this perfume "gallery" in 2004 on the heels of his lauded exhibition at the Cooper-Hewitt Design Triennial. It's a delightful jewel box of a store that encourages browsing, with nature installations (pebbles, moss, and seashells) periodically reworked by a stylist and "tasting notes" that accompany each fragrance. The description of one best seller, called At The Beach 1966: "This is the scent of warm skin covered in suntan lotion and fresh ocean water mixed with hints of sand, driftwood, seashell, and old weathered boardwalk." Brosius fashions his shop as a kind of anti-Sephora—he compounds and blends ingredients himself and limits his use of synthetic materials. Perfumes are typically sold in essential oil "Absolutes," "Water Perfumes," or "Home Sprays." No surprise perhaps that offbeat variations find favor in this corner of Williamsburg: "Greenbriar 1968," a fragrance made from an unusual blend of sawdust, fresh-cut hay, old leather, pipe tobacco, and dirt, has done quite well.
Open Tuesday through Saturday noon to 6 pm.
53A Main Street
Vineyard Haven , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 693 2284
This jewelry shop got the jump on the charm-bracelet crazeby about four decades. The glass cases here are filled with elegant gold and silver charms in island-themed shapes (scallop shells, starfish, sand dollars, beach umbrellas) and toggle-linked chains to hang them on. Guys can choose from natty cuff links shaped like lighthouses, bluefish, and ferryboats. There's also a small branch in Edgartown (27 North Water St.; 508-627-1260).
22 Cortlandt Street
Financial District
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 227 9092
This department store, known for selling designer fashions at heavily discounted prices, achieved a second degree of fame when it was seriously damaged in the World Trade Center attacks. Several months and millions of dollars in repairs later, it reopened in its original site, just across from Ground Zeroand as the women of Sex and the City famously put it in one episode, it is everyone's civic duty to go there and spend money. It's also in one's economic best interest. Prices on everythingmen's and women's fashions, shoes, housewares, cosmeticsare much lower than they would be anywhere else. You have to have nerves of steel to do hand-to-hand combat for the bargain goods, but the rewards are many.
Open Mondays through Wednesdays 7:45 am to 8 pm, Thursdays and Fridays 7:45 am to 9:30 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 9 pm, and Sundays 11 am to 8 pm.
2928 Main St.
Dallas , Texas
Tel: 214 651 9200
It's mid-century-modern madness at this unpretentious Deep Ellum storefront, where artfully composed suites take you back to 1950s high style. Go ahead and sit in the 1951 Eero Saarinen armchairs or the classic 1950s Eames lounge chairs by Herman Miller. The icons are everywhere: a Robsjohn-Gibbings triangular table, Hans Wegner sofa, Paul McCobb cabinets, Edward Wormley dressers. But there's also generic, period Danish modern and just plain cool-looking no-name stuff. As a bonus, the showroom has the nation's top selection of sleek Deco broadcast microphones from the dawn of radio and television (1920s through 1950s), as well as vintage aero-style fans and kitchen appliances.
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 11 am to 5 pm.
With its cobbled-brick sidewalk and gas-gone-electric street lamps, you can almost imagine Paul Revere strolling down Charles Street. Adding to the historic ambiance are a plethora of antiques shops. The name says it all at Danish Country European & Asian Antiques: You'll find Royal Copenhagen china, 18th- and 19th-century Scandinavian hutches, and antique Chinese furniture (no. 138; 617-227-1804; europeanstyleantiques.com). At Twentieth Century Limited, hunt for treasures in the $10 costume-jewelry bins or splurge on vintage earrings, tiaras, or cuff links (1,250 pairs!) in the packed display cases (no. 73; 617-742-1031; www.boston-vintagejewelry.com). Eugene Galleries Inc stocks worn leather-bound reference books, ancient postcards, and dated maps (no. 76; 617-227-3062). Of course, with the old comes the new, and Charles Street has seen its fair share of modern boutiques. Wish (no. 49; 617-227-4441), Moxie (no. 51; 617-557-9991; www.moxieboston.com), and the East Coast outpost of Holiday (no. 53; 617-973-9730; www.holidayboutique.net) all vie for the affluent trendsetters who aren't afraid to drop a couple hundred dollars on a Tory Burch tunic. You'll also find cutting-edge objets, from Tord Boontje paper lamp shades at Koo de Kir (65 Chestnut St.; 617-723-8111; www.koodekir.com) to John Derian's découpaged dishware at Good (no. 88; 617-722-9200; www.shopatgood.com).
194 E. Bay Street
Charleston , South Carolina
Tel: 843 722 1212
Part kitchen shop, part cooking school, Charleston Cooks is the place to go for Lowcountry culinary ephemera. Pick up a Charleston Rice Spoon (an ornate, long-handled utensil found in every local kitchen) and copper cookie cutters shaped like sea turtles and blue crabs, plus food like locally grown Carolina Gold rice. Book a class at the school to learn local specialties like shrimp and grits, skillet corn bread, and Lowcountry boil (potatoes, corn, sausage, and shrimp).
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 9 pm, Sundays 12 to 6 pm.
New Orleans , Louisiana
Forget your first-semester Parisian French—the locals pronounce this curio-seeker's dreamland as "CHART-erz." It's an odd collection of shops, peddling amber jewelry or tin toys behind dusty picture windows; sales clerks (many cranky and getting on in years) like to haggle. If you're looking for a Tanzanian ceremonial mask, a ten-foot scale replica of a Great Lakes steamship, or assorted bronze and marble statuary, the Whisnant Galleries is your one-stop shop (222 Chartres St.; 504-524-9766; www.whisnantgalleries.com/content). Lucullus showcases an outstanding collection of culinary antiques from collectible linens and crystal to 19th-century absinthe spoons (610 Chartres St.; 504-528-9620; www.lucullusantiques.com).
3244 N. Clark Street
Chicago , Illinois
Tel: 800 509 0333 (toll-free)
Tel: 773 528 1983
The fact that Chicago Comics has been voted one of the best comic-book shops in the country might not mean much if you're not (a) a child or (b) a fanatic. But you needn't be either to appreciate the store's eclectic merchandise, which runs the gamut from Mexican wrestling masks to adult-themed action figures to vintage posters. There's a small children's section up front and an entire wall of current superhero comics, but the majority of the store's PG-13 racks are filled with manga (in both Japanese and English), small press, and self-published works.
Open Mondays through Thursdays noon to 8 pm, Fridays noon to 9 pm, Saturdays 11 am to 9 pm, Sundays noon to 7 pm.
108 Pine Street
Seattle , Washington
Tel: 206 443 3900
The wine business has been cornered and premium coffee is old news,, so it was only a matter of time before Washingtonians found a new gourmet frontier to conquer: artisanal chocolate. This cheerful cacao purveyor offers one-stop sampling and shopping, with a dedicated section for each of the city's best chocolatiers. You'll find truffles, bonbons, bars, and bags of nib brittle from Fran's, Oh! Chocolate, Fiori, Chocolat Vitale, and Theo. (If you make it to Fremont don't miss a tour of Theo's tiny factory; 3400 Phinney; 206-632-5100; www.theochocolate.com.) There are a few café tables, and one length of the shop is devoted to serving hot chocolate, chocolate-drenched pastries, and gelato.
Open Sundays through Thursdays 10 am to 6 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to 8 pm.
225 Church Street
Burlington , Vermont
Tel: 802 863 3880
The only spot in Burlington that might be called industrial chic, this former taxi garage was transformed into a glassblowing studio several years ago. Watch young artists blow the bright and delicate creations; an adjacent gallery sells the ones that have already cooled.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 5 pm. Call ahead for demonstrations.
374 South County Road
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 659 2154
It's no surprise that, in a town where you don't want to be caught wearing the same thing twice, there are a healthy number of resale shops. This charity store is the donation spot for seasonal residents who drop off their resort wear before heading north for the summer (the store closes in April and reopens in October). Expect to see near-mint condition Malo, Ralph Lauren, and Michael Kors from last season, plus a smattering of china and antiques.
Open October through April.
Church Street
Burlington , Vermont
Tel: 802 863 1648
Burlington's shopping district is a cobblestone, pedestrian-only affair that covers several downtown blocks. You'll find the inescapable Banana Republic, Borders, and other national chains, but look instead to the local shops. Pick up a vacation read at Crow Bookshop (14 Church St.; 802-862-0848; www.crowbooks.com), crafts and funky furniture at Frog Hollow (85 Church St.; 802-863-6458; www.froghollow.org), organic baby wear at Sprout Natural Parenting (110 Church St.; 802-865-0060; www.sproutparenting.com), and handmade pewter items at Danforth Pewter (111 Church St.; 802-860-7135; www.danforthpewter.com). Michael Kehoe is a good bet for high-end men's duds (117 Church St.; 802-863-3550; www.mkltd.com), Ecco sells high-end women's wear (63 Church St.; 802-860-2220; www.eccoclothes.com), and Lake Champlain Chocolates is recommended for, well, indulging (400 Pine St.; 802-864-1808; www.lakechamplainchocolates.com).
1155 Coast Village Road
Santa Barbara , California
Tel: 805 969 2200
Mother and daughter team Anne and Ellie O'Connell pack their two-story town house on Montecito's Coast Village Road with one-of-a-kind finds from their globe-trotting adventures. Downstairs is stocked with wonderfully eclectic pieces from the 18th and 19th century and feels like a hidden boutique off the Left Bank. Upstairs the vibe is more Mediterranean, with Venetian-plastered walls providing the backdrop for new and tough-to-find treasures from around the worldcandles from Paris, brass tables from Morocco, and top-of-the-line linens from Italy.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm.
1920 N. Damen Avenue
Chicago , Illinois
Tel: 773 276 2444
Alice's owner, Tamara Chapanot, is astute indeed. First she moved her store from its more staid Lincoln Park location to River North's young and superhip art gallery district, where the city's most creative young professionals live. More importantly, she's deft enough to stock a sexy but always elegant assortment of women's clothing and accessories. Her track record for recognizing up-and-coming designers on both sides of the pond is well established; her recent favorites have included Grey Ant from L.A., Casting from Paris, and local jewelry designer Veronica Riley Martens.
Open Sundays noon to 5 pm, Mondays and Tuesdays 11 am to 7 pm, Wednesdays through Fridays 11 am to 8 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm.
175 Newbury Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 536 1919
The Closet is one of several Newbury Street shops leading the recent fashion for vintage and consignment clothing. The finds may include vintage Dior bags, contemporary Chloé clothing, and jewelry reminiscent of your grandmother's heirlooms—the sort of stuff that was purchased in the much more expensive Newbury boutiques, worn once to a charity ball, and passed along to the very picky buyers here.—Jon Marcus
Open Tuesdays through Thursdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays by chance.
1615 Park Avenue
Park City , Utah
Tel: 435 649 4806
If it's time to upgrade your tattered skiwear into something more technical—or if you're just dying to try out the latest Völkl skis—Cole Sport is the place. The upscale ski and bike shop, which has a large retail center on Park Avenue and satellite stores at Deer Valley and Park City Mountain Resort, carries gear from Kjus, Arc'teryx, Bogner, and beyond, plus ski and snowboard equipment and rentals. In the summertime, you can rent and buy bikes, or if the fancy strikes to stay a bit longer, patio furniture.—Sarah Tuff
Open daily 8 am to 9 pm.
131 Charles Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 720 0010
Opened by childhood friends in their 20s who quit jobs in PR and finance to indulge their fashion obsessions, Crush sells women's clothing, accessories, shoes, and handbags selected with its founders' youthful tastes and passions in mind. Designers represented include up-and-comers such as Charlie Jade, Chelsea Flower, and Daughters of the Revolution as well as established style-setters like Alice + Olivia, J Brand, and House of Harlow. How girlie is this place? Britney Spears shops here.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
3720 Las Vegas Boulevard S.
Las Vegas , Nevada
Tel: 866 754 2489
Even if you're not the sort to get excited about clothing, jewelry, and other luxury goods from brands such as Louis Vuitton, Carolina Herrera, Cartier, and Paul Smith, the Crystals shopping center at CityCenter may still seduce you. Starchitect Daniel Libeskind's contribution to the $8.5 billion CityCenter project is an insanely stunning piece of architecture that entices visitors to stop and sit for a while, as if they were in a city park. And the dozen or so art installations designed by powerhouse firm the Rockwell Group act as abstract interpretations of city park imagery—such as trees, benches, streams, elevation changes, and grass—that change with the seasons. Many visitors can't afford anything in the boutiques carved out of the vast, tilted white walls, but if you can, we suggest patronizing either the Tom Ford boutique (the only one in the west) or Assouline, for its generously sized, and generously priced, books on art and culture.David Tyda
Open daily 10 am to midnight.
4 Easy Street
Nantucket , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 228 5073
The unique combination of wine (bottles start at a bargain $10) and vintage women's clothing and accessories has made Current Vintage the talk of the town since it opened in the former Juice Guys space on Easy Street. You'll find clothing from Lilly Pulitzerthe unofficial designer of NantucketHermès, and Missoni, as well as designer bags and shoes by the likes of Halston, Pucci, Manolo Blahnik, and Prada. The wines, priced up to $175 a bottle, are displayed with recommended food pairings; some are off local wine lists, and there's an "American Seasons Collection" of wines that work well with locally grown, seasonal dishes, in collaboration with the restaurant American Seasons. Current Vintage also sells sparkling sake and craft beer, and stays open until 11 pm in the summer for wandering visitors who find most other stores on the island shuttered by early evening.
1010 South Pearl Expressway
Dallas , Texas
Tel: 214 939 2808
A vast outdoor marketone of the largest of its kindstands in the shadow of the downtown high-rises. It includes acres of cut and potted flowers and a sprawling International Market specializing in mass-produced handicrafts such as Hacienda-style furniture and exuberantly glazed Mexican ceramics. But country folk and urban foodies alike flock to the block-long metal sheds full of fresh-from-the-farm produceeverything from watermelons to peanutsso voluptuously shaped and beautifully displayed that it might be described as food pornography. Farmers vie for the most perfect presentation, with kale tied in neat bunches, strawberries piled in little pyramids, and the string beans neatly arranged in pint-size boutique baskets. Samples are frequently offered.
Open daily 7 am to 6 pm.
138 Charles Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 227 1804
The standout on a street of antique shops, Danish Country European & Asian Antiques carries a curious combination of Royal Copenhagen china, 18th- and 19th-century Scandinavian hutches, and the antique Chinese lacquered furniture you may have admired in your hotel's lobby. (It might also look familiar from the cover of House Beautiful.) The shop is tiny but holds a surprisingly large collection to check out and maybe even ship home.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Wednesdays 10 am to 6 pm, Thursdays 10 am to 5 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm, Sundays 1 to 5 pm.
60 Main Street
Nantucket , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 325 8678
Longtime Nantucketers might balk at the idea of Jimmy Choos and Piazza Sempione on Main Street (just a stone's throw from Murray's, no less!). But today's vacationing gals who need something to wear to LoLa 41 know to come here. The helpful (okay, slightly pushy) salespeople busily ferry Etro separates, Loro Piana blouses, Cambio jeans, and even matching handbags to the dressing rooms to put together the perfect outfit.
8214 1/2 Melrose Avenue
West Hollywood , California
Tel: 323 655 0223
This fabulous vintage couture shop has supplied red-carpet gowns for the likes of Cameron Diaz, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, and Sheryl Crow. The designers represented here are the best of the best: Yves Saint Laurent, Emilio Pucci, Andre Courreges. Downstairs is Decadestwo (323-655-1960; www.decadestwo.com), where designer ready-to-wear—including Prada, Marni, and John Galliano—runs just over half retail price.
Closed Sundays.
3094 Fuller Street
Coconut Grove , Florida
Tel: 305 644 9400
Miami interior decorator Herbie Parets opened this home-decor shop in Coconut Grove in 2010 (he operates his design business from an atelier in back). Items like the pretty vintage-glass bottles blooming with colorful sea fans give a nod to Miami's seaside locale, but the offerings here truly go global and span the decades. There are antique cameras from the late 1800s (some with their original leather cases), birdcages sourced in the Deep South, French artwork, and embroidered throws from India (circa 1930s) among the objets d'art. Parets' keen design sense shows up in the presentation, too. Look for stacked vintage suitcases repurposed as side tables—something you could easily re-create on your own.—Terry Ward
Open Tuesdays through Sundays noon to 6 pm.
N.E. 39th and 40th Streets
Bordered by N. Miami Avenue
Miami , Florida
This 18-block stretch just north of downtown was an area of derelict warehouses until developer Craig Robins started buying up property in 1994. Today, it's a bastion of high style, with cutting-edge design stores (open to the public, not just interior designers) lining the streets, along with art galleries and cafés. Among the big names: the carpet emporium Odegard (3621 N.E. Miami Court; 305-576-7166; www.odegardinc.com) and Holly Hunt, a 20,000-square-foot showroom of contemporary furniture (3833 N.E. Second Ave.; 305-571-2012; www.hollyhunt.com).
If you've come to the modernist mecca of Palm Springs for the architecture, don't miss the flourishing design district along Palm Canyon Drive between Tamarisk Road and Tachevah Drive. Quirky home-accessories shop Fitzsu Society recently teamed up with architecture-obsessed real estate firm Deasy/Penner & Partners to brand their first ever lifestyle store Deasy/Penner & Partners + Fitzsu Society: Homes + Accessories, a one-stop shop where atomic-age enthusiasts can buy a dramatic desert home, then outfit it with the right modern gear. Modern Way Gallery is ground zero for design obsessives who drool over vintage low-slung sofas and Pierre Cardin credenzas. Black-and-white movie star glamour is the draw at the newly opened Interior Illusions, a Los Angeles import where huge ceramic horses are sold alongside luscious shag rugs and Hollywood Regency–style furnishings. At House 849 you'll find an eclectic mix of old and new pieces—bronze 19th-century Chinese lions, wing chairs upholstered in zebra print—that look like they stepped straight off the pages of Elle Decor. Across the street, Asylum is home to an inspired hodgepodge of little Lucite Buddhas, mirrored coffee tables, and curvaceous vases. Retro-design seeps into fashion at Trina Turk (think floaty kaftans and graphic cocktail sheaths), a chic clothing boutique housed in a 1960s Albert Frey–designed building. A few miles away, but definitely worth the trip is Estate Sale Co., a massive consignment warehouse where Ol' Blue Eyes himself sold the castoffs from his swanky desert pad.
5704 Magazine Street
New Orleans , Louisiana
Tel: 504 324 3745
If you've been wandering New Orleans's streets and have caught a glimpse of a local's clever, well-designed T-shirt, odds are it came from Dirty Coast, an active collective of graphic designers and entrepreneurs. From the classic "Be a New Orleanian, wherever you are" to their King Gator prints, these attractive tees are chock-full of local in-jokes and homages to Louisiana icons like "Jean Lafitte: Original Gangster." New Orleans Saints fans will find plenty of black-and-gold options for gameday, including a stylish Superdome festooned with a simple caption: "Church."
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 6 pm.
121 S. Main Street
Darby , Montana
Tel: 877 428 6257
For the last ten years, master hatter Jimmy Harrison has been making custom lids for country stars (Garth Brooks), rodeo champions (bull rider Adriano Moraes), and a president (George W. Bush). Step into his Bitterroot Valley shop for measurements, and a month later he'll send you a custom hat, guaranteed to fit. Harrison draws off a few dozen classic styles but can fashion just about any design; for instance, a full beaver hat with hand-stitched Indian beads will set you back $1,600.
221 Newbury Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 424 7125
Yes, Dress sells dresses, but also all kinds of other high-end classic and contemporary women's clothing, shoes, handbags, and jewelry. The international lineup of designers includes Yumi Kim, Leigh & Luca, Vanessa Bruno, Loeffler Randall, and MiH Jeans. The sales staff are helpful yet unobtrusive.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Thursdays 11 am to 7 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 11 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
1253 Coast Village Road
Montecito , California
Tel: 805 565 1253
Sophisticated but also on the edge, this Montecito hot spot thrills the likes of both Teri Hatcher and Britney Spears, with Michael Kors, Chloé, Blumarine, trendy tunics by Margaret Loves Peter, look-at-me jewelry by Kenneth Jay Lane, and shoe collections from Balenciaga and Stella McCartney. Next door, the sister boutique Ready features young international designers.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
Seventh Street S.E.
Washington, D.C.
Tel: 202 698 5253
There's no better way to spend a Saturday morning in D.C. than wandering through the stalls of Eastern Market on Capitol Hill. In operation since 1873, the market has long been a gathering place for locals looking for fresh produce, tasty pastries, and gourmet meats and cheeses. These days, purveyors of food and artisanal snacks (hand-twisted pretzels, locally made pickles) are joined by vendors and craftsmen selling vintage furniture, architectural salvage, art, and jewelry, as well as street musicians playing original folk and bluegrass music. The central brick building is where you'll find the queue for star tenant Market Lunch, a no-frills stand that cooks up the city's best pancakes (try the blueberry buckwheat) and perfect Maryland-style crab cakes for the hungry masses.Colleen Clark
Indoor food stalls open Tuesdays through Fridays 7 am to 7 pm, Saturdays 7 am to 6 pm, and Sundays 9 am to 5 pm. Full market (indoor and outdoor vendors) open Saturdays 7 am to 6 pm, Sundays 9 am to 5 pm.
Some of the city's most idiosyncratic and memorable shopping can be found in the East Village and the Lower East Side, neighborhoods which so far have remained immune to the plague of chain stores and franchises. Vintage clothing, street wear, and vinyl stores abound, and the narrow, awning-covered streets (particularly around Chinatown) can feel like a bustling Asian market, with noisy vendors and riotous, colorful stores whose wares spill onto the sidewalks.
Canny homemakers and stylists alike flock to Zarin Fabrics, a giant 1930s-era warehouse on the edge of Chinatown stocking high-quality fabric and draperyfrom damask to mohair to racy animal printsat discounted prices. Hunt for the perfect items to complement your draperies at John Derian. Plates, trays, and lamps are decoupaged with vintage prints and old typewritten letters, with French terra-cotta earthenware by Astier de Villatte and taxidermy and art by Hugo Guinness rounding out the eclectic mix.
Guys hungry for that happy medium between preppy and hipster frequent Odin, a men's boutique known for its butter-soft tees and well-curated mix of cutting-edge labels like Rag & Bone and Rogue's Gallery. Their girlfriends and wives flock to Sigerson Morrison, whose shoes are the Jimmy Choos of the downtown set. Also check out their less expensive line, Belle, in a separate storefront around the corner.
For grown-up womenswear with a slightly conceptual bent, you won't want to miss No. 6, a pared-back boutique owned by two friends—a stylist and a vintage collector—who stock designers such as Staerk, Stine Goya, and Christian Wijnants; vintage pieces; and their own line of clothing and shoes in an androgynous Belgian mode. More like a members-only club than a clothes shop (you have to be buzzed in), Alife Rivington is actually two adjacent boutiques where hipsters with deep pockets go to stock up on ironic tees, limited-edition kicks, and hoodies. The vibe is far from thrift store thoughthe shelves are spotless, the displays immaculate, and an air of quiet reverence prevails. Foley+Carinna, on the other hand, embraces the thrift-store vibe. Infectious dance music plays as you peruse sparkly, lacy garments; oversize costume jewelry; and vintage clothes and shoes. The fashion-forward line of tote bags is worth stopping for as well.
43 Main Street
Edgartown , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 627 9439
The art of scrimshawetching delicate, highly detailed pictures onto pieces of ivorywas popularized by sailors looking for ways to while away the months at sea aboard 19th-century whaling ships. Despite the ban on ivory, artisans, like gallery owner Thomas DeMont keep the craft alive. DeMont's painstaking etchings of square-riggers and seascapes (all made on fossilized, decades-old ivory or bone) as well as works by other contemporary scrimshaw artists and a few antique pieces on sperm-whale teeth fill the showcases here.
Open May through December and occasional Saturdays in the off-season.
27 W. Main Street
Southampton , New York
Tel: 888 277 8837
Hamptons hosts rely on Stephanie Finkelstein's shop for custom party cups and cocktail napkins, but the store is also a great place for guests seeking to return the favor. Inside a 400-square-foot bungalow at the end of an alleyway a few steps off Southampton's main drag, the Elegant Setting sells resort-town necessities ranging from beach towels and cotton throw blankets to leather-handled canvas totes—all of which can be monogrammed on-site. Summery, personalized status symbols are the specialty here: Nautical motifs are a popular choice on the made-to-order items, and ultrapreppy Smathers & Branson needlepoint key fobs come embroidered with the various Hamptons ZIP codes. Even if you don't own property in the East End, the valets will think you do.—Updated by Darrell Hartman
Open Thursdays through Sundays 10 am to 5 pm.
101 S. Main Street
Seattle , Washington
Tel: 206 624 6600
You could easily spend hours here, wandering among the numerous wooden lofts and mezzanines piled high with books (more than 150,000 titles in all). The welcoming spacea historic brick warehousehas wooden floors that squeak as you walk and an underground café that brews strong coffee and attracts local intellectuals. The event calendar is extensivetypically two or three author readings per dayso check online before you visit to see if anything strikes your fancy.
El Paseo is the desert's take on Rodeo Drive, a posh stretch of boutiques, galleries and cafés that lies just 12 miles outside of Palm Springs in the second-home sprawl of Palm Desert. If the 300 stores take their toll, you can hop on a tram which transports worn-out shoppers along the mile-long expanse. Between Larkspur Lane and San Pablo Avenue you'll find The Gardens on El Paseo, a two-story outdoor mall anchored by money-magnets Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co. There are also plenty of independent boutiques for the oversized sunglasses set. Shoe hounds in the market for Stuart Weitzman, Cole Haan and Donald J. Pliner designs beeline to Rangoni of Florence, while Troy is a must for those in need of Feraud gowns. Down the street there is a girly clothing boutique cum nail salon called Trio, which stocks the trendy essentials of the casual, California-cool wardrobe—James Perse tees, metallic flip-flops, and very expensive jeans.
417 Broadway
Nashville , Tennessee
Tel: 615 255 7503
In a world of iPod turntables and music careers launched on MySpace, the late Ernest Tubb's stores still bank on the belief that oldies are goodies. In business since 1947, the store on Lower Broadway carries a broad stock of hard-to-find country and bluegrass albums; if you can't find it there, chances are it may be at Tubb's other local location (in Music Valley Village, near the Gaylord Opryland hotel) or on their Web site. Either way, the staff is happy to help you hunt.
Open Mondays and Thursdays 10 am to 9 pm; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 10 am to 7 pm; Saturdays 9 am to 1:30 am; and Sundays 9 am to 7:30 pm.
76 Charles Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 227 3062
Eugene Galleries is the perfect place to pick up some authentic souvenirs you can afford. It's obsessively organized (in alphabetical order, of all things), so you're bound to find a subject of interest—old maps, etchings, prints, newspapers, magazine advertisements, photographs, lithographs, leather-bound books, postcards, watercolors—for yourself or a loved one who didn't get to travel to Boston with you.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
389 Atlantic Avenue
Boerum Hill
Brooklyn , New York
Tel: 718 260 903
Subway: F train to Bergen Street
Even if the Dries Van Noten, Rick Owens, and Ann Demeulemeester pieces that grace the perfectly curated racks of clothing are out of your price range, Eva Gentry (formerly known as Butter) is well worth a look. The jewelry, accessories, footwear, and clothing are shown in a gallery-like high-ceilinged white space. For those who can live with being a few seasons out of date, Eva Gentry's consignment store, a couple of doors down, will ensure you won't go home empty-handed (371 Atlantic Ave.; 718-522-3522).—Nicola McCormack
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
55 Kaahumanu Avenue
Kahului , Hawaii
Tel: 808 871 5770
If after a few days in Maui hotel rooms you start coveting tropical print pillowcases, curtains, or tablecloths, this is the place to find your new favorite fabrics. You can choose from bolts and bolts of lovely Hawaiian prints (even vintage bark cloth). Other locations are located throughout the islands.
220 North Higgins
Missoula , Montana
Tel: 406 721 2881
Montana has a lot of literary types who come out for the solitude and inexpensive living. Most of them, like Jim Harrison and Tom McGuane, live between Big Timber and Missoula. The latter is home to the independent Fact & Fiction bookstore, a great place for signed copies and readings from Big Sky writers like James Lee Burke, Ivan Doig, and David James Duncan.
Atlanta , Georgia
For the best selection of labels under one roof, head to Phipps Plaza, an upscale mall in Buckhead with three shops of particular interest (Phipps Plaza; 3500 Peachtree Rd. N.E.; 404-262-0992). Jeffrey carries the same fashion-forward merchandise (from the likes of Prada and Balenciaga) as its younger sister in New York, making it a mecca for women living south of the Mason-Dixon line. Through a 2006 expansion, Jeffrey absorbed a neighboring Bob Ellis boutique and its impressive selection of high-end designer footwear—shoes from Christian Louboutin, Dries Van Noten, Prada, et al. (404-237-9000; www.jeffreynewyork.com). Also of note in Phipps Plaza are Tory Burch's retro-mod tunics and dickeys (866-480-8679; www.toryburch.com) and Jimmy Choo's vertiginous shoes (800-506-9991; www.jimmychoo.com). One of Atlanta's great stand-alone stores, Peoples proves that there's more to Southern style than big hair and white shoes. The tiny boutique in Buckhead carries a well-edited mix of Chloé, Peter Som, and Stella McCartney, as well as an impressive selection of designer handbags, shoes, and accessories (3236 Roswell Rd.; 404-816-7292; closed Sun and Mon).
624 Pirate's Alley
French Quarter
New Orleans , Louisiana
Tel: 504 524 2940
Any other shop this size might be considered cramped, but Faulkner House does a lot with a tiny space. Shelves packed with Southern literature, rare first editions, and contemporary fiction are stacked up to the 15-foot ceilings. "But don't worry," says the friendly clerk, "we've got a good ladder." The staff can wax poetic and historical about the store's namesake; the shop was once William Faulkner's apartment and is where he wrote his first novel, Soldiers' Pay, in 1925.
Open daily 10 am to 5:30 pm.
132 N.W. 12th Avenue
Portland , Oregon
Tel: 503 467 4660
The very antithesis of a generic chain store, this handsome menswear shop harks back to another, more refined era without being stuffy or pretentious. In an intimate space, pristine rows of cashmere sweaters, tweed jackets, upscale outdoorwear, and suits cater to men with a European sensibility. But it's the colorful accessories that make this such a distinctive spot. Candy-colored socks, gorgeous floral silk ties, stylish plaid umbrellas, silk scarves in gem tones, and the like add notes of whimsy to the soberly refined clothing on offer.
Open Mondays through Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Thursdays 10 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
Honolulu , Hawaii
From 5 to 10 p.m. on the first Friday of each month, Chinatown (which extends east-west from River Street to Richard Street and north-south between Beretania and King streets) turns into an arty street party. Participating stores, galleries, performance spaces, restaurants, and bars literally leave their doors wide open for throngs of people who come to schmooze, socialize, see and be seen—and, of course, shop. Crowds spill out onto the streets and make the rounds, sipping free wine and scouting for designer home decor at Sourcing Asia and INTO, "recycled art by unknown talents" at Daspace on Smith Street, and "outsider art" at the Got Art? gallery on Nuuanu Avenue. Those wanting to buy contemporary but still-affordable Hawaiian artworks should stop by the Louis Pohl Gallery, and wine collectors shouldn't miss the HASR Wine Co., a funky little shop run by enthusiastic wine nerds with some surprising selections (perfect for BYOB meals in the 'hood).
1133 Bethel Street
Tel: 808 585 8505
40 N. Hotel Street
Tel: 808 536 2211
1111 Nuuanu Avenue
Tel: 808 521 1812
31 N. Pauahi Street
Tel: 808 535 9463
8171 Kekaha Road
Kekaha , Hawaii
Tel: 808 337 2888
A Niihau shell lei—lustrous strands of delicate shells, no bigger than a baby's fingernail, plucked from the sands of the privately owned island of Niihau—can sell for upward of $10,000. Why are they so expensive? A single lei-maker would need over five years to collect enough shells of the same shape and color to make a classic five-strand lei. While families do work together to speed things up, the process is still painstaking. State law mandates that only leis made out of 80 percent Niihau shells can be called Niihau shell leis, but cheap knockoffs abound, and even authentic Niihau leis vary in quality. The only way to be sure to get what you're paying for is to buy from a reputable seller, like Forever Kauai, located in Kekaha on the west coast of Kauai. The shop is modest and stuffed with cheap matching Hawaiian shirts and muumuus, but the leis, varying in color from gray blue to hot pink, are exquisite. You can start with a simple $50 pair of earrings or a $250 single-strand choker, or go whole hog for a multistrand piece sure to become a family heirloom.—Cathay Che
Open daily 9 am to 5 pm.
Caesars Palace Hotel & Casino
3500 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas , Nevada
Tel: 702 893 4800
Since a 2004 expansion, the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace are no longer a quick stop. Fashion addicts can spend a full day touring the 160 stores, including Valentino, Escada, Etro, Roberto Cavalli, Marc Jacobs, Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Pucci, Tod's, and Christian Lacroix. The downside is the confusing layout, with curving escalators weaving through the three-story atrium. Despite the high volume of shoppers, employees are pretty attentive. And the best place to eat at the Shops: Spago.
Shops open Sundays through Thursdays 10 am to 11 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to midnight.
399 Market Street
Philadelphia , Pennsylvania
Tel: 800 734 8511 (toll-free)
Tel: 215 925 0950
Look to owners Ken Foster and Larry Lantz for the necessities of modern metro living. Their staff fearlessly mixes and matches Chilewich woven-vinyl tablemats, bright Waechtersbach plates, and detailed Origo porcelain from Iittala to create bold but totally usable tablescapes. There's also a whimsical children's section chock-a-block with funny pick-me-ups—who could resist a Ben Franklin or Marie Antoinette action figure?
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
251 N. 3rd Street
Philadelphia , Pennsylvania
Tel: 215 574 0700
Working from the largest collection of fireplace paraphernalia in the country, Francis J. Purcell and his son have done installations in both Mount Vernon and the White House. One floor of their four-story Old City shop is devoted to antique fireplace mantels (mostly wooden American 18th- and early 19th-century examples), while the other half of the building is filled with authenticated 18th- and 19th-century English, American, Russian, and French furniture.
Call ahead for an appointment.
1013 S.W. Washington Street
Tel: 503 227 3402
If you go to one clothing boutique in Portland, this should be it. Francis May, a joint venture between Connie Codding and granddaughter Pamela Baker-Miller, embodies a distinctly Portland brand of understated cool. Local classics like Pendleton wool shirts and blazers hang alongside designs from independent up-and-comers. Look for floral Samantha Pleet rompers, tribal Mociun dresses, and ruffled Church & State frocks as well as heavy industrial necklaces and geode rings. Menswear includes brogue boots by Rachel Comey, A.P.C. parkas, and Rag & Bone checked shirts. Everything is cleanly arranged on vintage industrial racks or in steamer trunks, and there are some woodsy design touches, such as buffalo plaid curtains in the dressing rooms.—Colleen Clark
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
8100 Melrose Avenue
West Hollywood , California
Tel: 323 651 3698
This infamous shop—it's as well-known for its celebrity sightings as it is for its exclusive merchandise—is like a collection of different boutiques under one roof. You can shelter-shop, check out the latest handbags and shoes, and buy men's, women's, and children's clothing—and know that you're getting only the coolest and most luxurious brands. It's one of the best best-edited stores in the United States. There's a second Fred Segal shop in Santa Monica (500 Broadway; 310-458-1160).
Washington's answer to New York City's Fifth Avenue, this tony stretch of stores along the border between the District and Maryland is where the capital's boldface names outfit themselves in fashion's biggest labels. Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci all have outposts here, as do Cartier, Tiffany. and Bulgari. Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus, and Lord & Taylor are represented, too, but gala-bound shoppers prefer the 120-year-old Saks Jandel for its selection of formal evening wear from designers such as Yves Saint Laurent and Carolina Herrera. The younger D.C. trendsetters gravitate to the more casual mens- and womenswear (Opening Ceremony, Alexander Wang, Rag & Bone) at Barneys Co-Op.Colleen Clark
For high-quality contemporary design, head first to Space, a frosty white street-level showroom where Bertoia chairs, Minotti cocktail tables, and Louis Poulsen chandeliers fly off the shelves the second they hit the store. There's usually a DJ spinning on weekends, and the adjoining space is a popular venue for after-hours parties and events. RetroModern, just across the street, stocks midcentury classics from Eames and Noguchi and contemporary staples like Starck Flos lamps and Iitala housewares. It also houses the Alessi U.S. flagship and a Kartell store.
115 N. Sixth Street
Brooklyn , New York
Tel: 718 599 6278
Subway: L train to Bedford Avenue
This cultish design hub in Williamsburg has become an incubator of sorts for up-and-coming Brooklyn talent (it was the first to carry ceramic antler chandeliers, a Jason Miller signature piece). The merchandise is definitely idiosyncratic, but if you suddenly find yourself living in a West Elm catalog, this is a good way to add some pizzazz. Standout buys include metallic-gold oil lamps made from hand grenades, and Louis XV reproduction antique chairs upholstered with army fatigue patterns and emblazoned with graffiti. Functional pieces do anchor the store, however. Storage cubes and desks by Scrapile, a local outfit that fuses discarded wood scraps into beautiful modern furniture, could fit into any creative office space. And Andrea Claire's circular lampshades, with digital landscapes superimposed onto linen frames, are both subtle and chic.
Open daily from noon to 7 pm.
2414 E. Sunrise Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale , Florida
Tel: 954 564 1036
Fort Lauderdale's anchor mall is surprisingly upscale. There are the usual standardsdepartment stores like Dillards, Saks, and Macy's (once known as Burdine's, and famed for its snazzy range of hot-weather clothes), plus Victoria's Secret and Banana Republicbut you'll also find L'Occitane, BCBG, and a branch of jeweler Bailey Banks & Biddle.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 9 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
9700 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach , Florida
Tel: 305 868 3533
Miriam Gee, a former fashion and beauty editor, and her three daughters are the beauty whisperers behind this Toronto-based cosmetics store and spa. Their first stateside outpost opened in August 2011 on the ground floor of the Bal Harbour Shops, surrounded by couture storefronts. The Gee family focuses on face and skin treatments in the all-white space and stocks celeb—and beauty editor—favorites such as Malin+Goetz, Tammy Fender, and Dr. Sebagh (there are also two treatment rooms for massages and waxing). And if you want to learn the tricks of the pros, get a one-hour rundown at Secrets of the Chair, a private class taught by makeup artists.—Terry Ward
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 9 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
What started out as a little zine is now a store that sells anime comics and toys for grown-ups; art and design books from Yoshitomo Nara, Takashi Murakami, and director Wong Kar-Wai; graphic-emblazoned totes; and other odds and ends for in-the-know nerds. When the flagship started spilling over with merchandise a couple of years ago, the owners opened the more minimalist GR2 across the street, providing a gallery space for local and Japanese artists, with a heavy dose of comic book illustrations and Eastern-influenced Pop art. The Giant Robot brand has also exploded into the food world with the nearby restaurant GR/Eats, a quirky pan-ethnic café that serves up seared tuna salad, angus burgers, and paella.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11:30 am to 8 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
6109 S. Dixie Highway
West Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 533 7557
The Church Mouse is where to find daywear, but Glam Vintage is all about cocktail dresses and floor-length gowns. The high-end vintage shop stocks sequined and lavishly draped dresses worthy of a woman-in-peril in any 1970s disaster flickthink a three-quarter-sleeve gold mini with a plunging neckline, a lemon-yellow chiffon maxidress with Marchesa-like Grecian detailing, or a ruffled Kelly-green cocktail shift with a bejeweled buckle at the waist. Owner Julie Pinello also stocks an Aladdin's cave of semiprecious and costume baubles; there's some fine men's tailoring as well.
88 Charles Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 722 9200
The name of this shop is an understatement. Good models itself after an art gallery, changing its look and inventory every few months. But you'll always find retro and antique home goods, furniture, ceramics, glassware, and an extraordinary collection of one-of-a-kind gifts, like hand-hammered gold earrings or cuff links made of old subway tokens and typewriter keys. It's all about modern and minimalist design in everyday life—and now that Good has begun commissioning artists to make items exclusively for the shop, the offerings are more unique than ever.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Fridays 11 am to 7 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
Founded in 1977 to offer sex information and toys geared toward women, this store is no dimly lit back-alley den. Rather, it's bright, comfortable, and friendly, stocked with condoms, lubricants, books, and videos, as well as state-of-the-art vibrators and other playthings. The knowledgeable personnel will discourse on the finer points of the Rabbit Pearl or the Magic Wand, and on occasion, founder (and sex therapist/educator) Joani Blank displays her "museum"—dating back to 1869—of antique vibrators.
Polk Street location open Sundays through Thursdays 11 am to 8 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 11 am to 9 pm. Mission location open Mondays through Wednesdays 11 am to 8 pm, Thursdays 11 am to 9 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 11 am to 10 pm, and Sundays 11 am to 9 pm.
611 East Durant Avenue
Aspen , Colorado
Tel: 970 920 9388
This ski- and après-wear shop sells both European and Colorado-inspired clothing and accessories for men, women, and kids. Its selection, especially for boots, is unrivaled. There are eight stores peppered throughout the Colorado Rockies: This location, in the Little Nell, focuses on apparel, while the shop at the base of Aspen Mountain is a good source for equipment, including rentals.—by Samantha Berman
263 E. Gore Creek Drive
Vail , Colorado
Tel: 970 476 2294
An institution for almost three decades, this European-style boutique sells technical and casual skiwear, hats and gloves, jewelry, and even home furnishings—plus a full line of skis and boots. Gorsuch also has a store in nearby Beaver Creek (138 Beaver Creek Place, Tel: 970 949 7115).
221 Worth Avenue
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 355 9292
You may have ogled the golf ball–size diamonds in the nifty display windows at Graff's other boutiques in London, Monte Carlo, and Manhattan. Here's your chance to try one on for size. Manager Craig Miller will happily strike up a conversation with even the most casual browser—though if you're not careful, you may leave with a very pricey bauble you weren't planning on buying.
Closed Sundays, August, and early September.
636 Old County Road
West Tisbury , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 693 0455
Housed in a restored grain-storage barn, the Granary Gallery displays a captivating collection of art by artists with connections to the island. There are signed black-and-white prints by Alfred Eisenstadt, the Life photographer who held his first commercial show here, and works by muralist and painter Thomas Hart Benton, who summered on the Vineyard as an adult. Among the others on display are island photographer Alison Shaw; summer resident and extraordinary super-realist Heather Nell; and Scott Terry, a commercial striped-bass fisherman, who paints brilliantly colored oils of Vineyard scenes. Prices range from $250 to $250,000, and the antiques that decorate the gallery are also for sale (as is a small selection of new handcrafted jewelry). Openings of new shows are held every other week in an open courtyard behind the barn (check the Web site for info). But what really sets the Granary apart are its owners, Chris and Sheila Morse, who are as friendly and unpretentious as they are knowledgeable, although the off-street parking helps too. The Morses also run the Field Gallery in West Tisbury, which has more contemporary art and sculpture than the Granary (1050 State Rd.; 508-693-5595; fieldgallery.com), and the North Water Gallery in Edgartown, with more traditional works (27 North Water St.; 508-627-6002; northwatergallery.com).
325 S. Orange Avenue
Orlando , Florida
Tel: 407 581 4801
Unless you were a guest at the Grand Bohemian Hotel, there's a good chance you wouldn't come across this contemporary art store located on the hotel's ground floor (right next to Starbucks). Search it out for unique paintings, prints, and jewelry handcrafted by Orlando artisans. Artist and violinist Elizabeth St. Hilaire Nelson does unusual collages, working with materials such as pages from her son's homework and sheet music to create renderings of peacocks, cows, and blueberries (the images are also printed onto canvas bags if you'd rather wear your art). Steven Mikel uses coffee in light and dark roasts to make sepia-tone watercolors of Florida landscapes. The gallery is well situated, since the Grand Bohemian Hotel has a collection of more than 150 rare works from artists ranging from Gustav Klimt to Dale Chihuly. Alas, those are not for sale.—Terry Ward
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 8 pm, Sundays 10 am to 3 pm.
The Venetian Hotel & Casino
3377 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas , Nevada
Tel: 702 414 4500
Only in Vegas would you find a half-million square feet of retail and dining along a canal complete with gondoliers. Well, perhaps only at the Venetian. The 70 shops are mostly familiar mall denizens such as Sephora, Banana Republic, and Brookstone. Don't miss Pal Zileri, which can tailor a super-180s wool suit and ship it to your home out of state (thus avoiding sales tax) or pearl purveyor Mikimoto: You'd be surprised how small a jackpot you'll have to hit to afford a strand. Don't wear heels here while shopping: The cobblestone floors will leave you struggling for balance.
Shops open Sundays through Thursdays 10 am to 11 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to midnight.
256 Worth Avenue, Via Gucci
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 835 1958
Enter a world of toy soldiers and military memorabilia, dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. Where else can you purchase an authentic plumed helmet, decorative ribbons, medals, swashbucklers' swords, and regimental drums?
Closed Sundays.
40 Foundry Street
Waterbury , Vermont
Tel: 802 882 2134
Green Mountain Coffee is considered by many locals to be the best in New England, and here you'll be able to sample as much as you want and decide for yourself. The outlet, though, is really worthwhile for all the java-related gadgets that they sell, such as single-cup brewers.
Open Mondays through Fridays 6:30 am to 3 pm.
1604 8th Avenue S.
Nashville , Tennessee
Tel: 615 254 4801
Compact discs and slices of vinyl still hold currency at Grimey's, the indie-music store beloved by local fanboys and suburban moms alike for its non-elitist approach to buying and selling music. Located just south of downtown, the store encompasses four rooms holding both new and used records and CDs. The selection is vast—rock to bluegrass to rap to metal and back again—but the stock is well edited. Grimey's frequently hosts free afternoon performances by artists booked to play that night at The Basement, the club conveniently situated downstairs (615-254-8006; www.thebasementnashville.com).
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 8 pm, Sundays 1 to 6 pm.
135 Post Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 800 766 7628
Founded in 1861 by Solomon Gump to introduce Gold Rush parvenus to the decorative arts, the famous Gump's purveys costly, beautiful, and unusual housewares in addition to a wide selection of inexpensive gifts. As well as bedding, bath accessories, china, and crystal, you'll find jewelry and objets d'art, such as Limoges boxes and Murano glass. Gump's wares show a strong Pacific Rim influence, and an 18th-century Ching dynasty Buddha (not for sale) greets visitors who enter from Post Street.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
933 Talbot Street
St. Michaels , Maryland
Tel: 410 745 0085
Located on a major flyway, the vast Chesapeake wetlands have long been a hotbed for duck hunters who used wooden decoys to lure their winged quarry. The hand-whittled and painstakingly painted works have become highly collectible folk art, at prices even approaching six figures (the cost of an early-20th-century decoy by noted Massachusetts carver Joseph Lincoln still embedded with large-gauge shot). This gallery, which belongs to the world's leading decoy-auction firm, has an excellent inventory of antique and contemporary decoys from makers across North America.
Open Tuesdays through Fridays 10 am to 5 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 2 pm.
1350 N. Wells Street
Chicago , Illinois
Tel: 312 440 1300
A self-proclaimed clotheshorse, former lawyer Adam Beltzman was having a hard time finding the clothing—playful but still sufficiently refined—that he prefers. So he opened his own modern interpretation of the classic (and classy) men's clothing store. His carefully edited selections from ultratrendy lines include cashmere sweaters from anthony + moe, denim from Habitual and Joe's, and impeccably detailed dress pants and shirts from Theory. There are great gift items, too, including contemporary cuff links from Duncan Quinn, Linea Pelle belts, and a smattering of vibrant Ted Baker ties.
Open Sundays and Mondays noon to 5 pm; Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays 11 am to 7 pm; Thursdays 11 am to 8 pm; Saturdays 11 am to 6 pm.
9 Centre Street
Nantucket , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 228 2100
The refined European clothing here (for men and women) manages to look breezy and casual: Swiss broadcloth shirts by Bruli come in crisp tattersall and awning stripes; Della Ciana pastel cashmere sweaters are whisper-light; Luciano Barbera tailored pants and Bermuda shorts would look at home at the yacht club. Just try to swallow that gasp when you see the price tags.
1006 West 36th Street
Baltimore , Maryland
Tel: 410 889 6453
If director John Waters were to give up the movie business and open an antique shop, it might look something like this Hampden kitschfest. If you're in the market for black-velvet paintings of Elvis, crab-shell-shaped ashtrays, Shriners' fezzes, '50s cocktail shakers, pinup postcards, talking Pee Wee Herman dolls, or vintage Life magazine covers of Barbra Streisand, you've found the right place.
Open Thursdays through Sundays 11 am to 4 pm.
316 Broadway
Nashville , Tennessee
Tel: 615 256 2805
Bold colors, chunky block letters, sharp graphic layouts: Hatch Show Print posters have a look all their own. Hatch has been operating since 1879, printing posters and handbills for clients as diverse as Prohibition-era evangelists and major modern sports companies, with hundreds of singers, bands, and music festivals filling out the mix. Snap up a poster from their in-store stock, much of which is displayed on the walls and windows overlooking the streets of Lower Broadway. Prices start as low as $5. You can also place an order for a custom poster. Expect a turnaround time of four to five weeks.
Open Mondays through Fridays 9 am to 5 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm.
590 Farrington Highway
Kapolei , Hawaii
Tel: 808 674 4001
This made-in-Hawaii brand of surfboards, clothing, and surf accessories has been around since 1972, but it's still nearly impossible to find (outside of Oahu HIC boutiques). The exclusivity means the brand still has cachet, and the boards are treated like trophies by those who own them. For those on a budget, this new HIC outlet way out in Kapolei offers deep discounts on previous seasons' models. Though it was opened for locals, there's nothing to stop the adventurous visitor from seeking it out, as well.
5507 N. Clark Street
Chicago , Illinois
Tel: 773 681 0798
Arrin Williams, the owner of this Andersonville hoedown of a boutique, knows that local sourcing isn't limited to top chefs. Scouring both Chicago and Midwestern back roads for handmade objets d'art (pretty much known as objects here), he has assembled a serious curated collection of goods from the heartland's most dedicated designers, builders, artists, artisans, craftspeople, and small studios at the Haymaker Shop. The shop itself—approximating a toolshed-cum-lumberyard-cum–crafts fair—holds a woody explosion of Lagomorph Design's reclaimed benches and tables, along with beeswax candles from Chicago Honey Co-op, stained-glass necklaces from Kostick Glass Jewelry, and just about anything else that can be made by hand, preferably from sustainable sources.—Raphael Kadushin
Open Tuesdays through Fridays 12 to 7 pm; Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm; and Sundays 11 am to 5 pm (or by appointment).
257 S. 20th Street
Philadelphia , Pennsylvania
Tel: 215 545 5207
Textile designer J. Lamancuso assembles a rotating collection of home furnishings and personal accessories in his two shops. The focus of the Rittenhouse Square location is handbags (animal-friendly Mat and Nat numbers), gifts (Chilewich vinyl placemats), and jewelry (freshwater pearl necklaces by J. himself). If you're in the market for a unique wedding gift, this is the place to go. The Pine Street store on Antique Row (Washington Square West) has a select inventory of vintage Mid-Century Modern, Eames-inspired furniture, and California studio pottery (1201 Pine St.; 215-545-7060; Closed Monday).
Open Mondays noon to 7 pm, Tuesdays through Fridays 11 am to 7 pm, Saturdays and Sundays 11 am to 5 pm.
712 Fifth Avenue
Midtown East
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 247 1100
In years past, if Bergdorf Goodman was the glamorous older sibling and Barneys the avant-garde individualist, the original Henri Bendel was the fun, fashion-forward little sister of New York City department stores. This was the first U.S. store to stock Chanel and championed offbeat yet fabulous fashion brands like Sonia Rykiel and Matthew Williamson, after all. But in 2009, the parent company shut down the clothes department in order to concentrate solely on accessories and beauty products. While the loss was felt keenly by fashion followers, there's still glamour to be found in the flagship store, which is made up of three late-19th-century town houses with the original Lalique windows and glass-domed ceiling intact. The beauty department stocks brands such as Trish McEvoy, Laura Mercier, and YSL, and you'll find jewelry and bags from Rebecca Minkoff, Tom Binns, and Miriam Haskell spread around the shop. There are more affordable options, as well, including snakeskin wristlets for under $100.—Emma Sloley
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 8 pm, Sundays noon to 7 pm.
Preston Road and Mockingbird Lane
Dallas , Texas
Tel: 214 559 2740
Dallas's profound contribution to mall culture began with this National Historic Landmark, the first self-contained, sole-proprietorship shopping mall in the nation's history. Built in 1931 in a Spanish Mediterranean style, the lovingly maintained outdoor mall actually does feel Mediterranean, with beautiful trees, a central fountain, terra-cotta tile roofs, and gracefully arched storefront windows framing artful displays. There was a time when equestriennes from surrounding Highland ParkDallas's Beverly Hillstied up their horses in front of the shops; now they drive luxury SUVs and dress for lunch. The charming retro ambience frames some of the biggest names in fashion today, with exclusive boutiques featuring Hermès, Chanel, Jimmy Choo, Escada, Calvin Klein, and Polo/Ralph Lauren.
Sundays noon to 5 pm, Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm.
Hillsboro Pike at Hillsboro Circle
Nashville , Tennessee
This outdoor mall is the newest shopping center to open in the upscale neighborhood of Green Hills, which already claims the tony Mall at Green Hills (Louis Vuitton and Tiffany are both tenants). Highlights include a branch of the British chain Jigsaw, the area's largest Whole Foods market, and H. Audrey, a high-end women's boutique stocking locally impossible-to-find brands like Rick Owens. The store is owned by Holly Williams, granddaughter of Hank Sr. and a successful singer-songwriter in her own right.
Store hours vary.
53 Charles Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 973 9730
Modeled after the interior of an antique dollhouse, Holiday is a decidedly feminine playground for trendsetting women who don't mind dropping a couple of hundred dollars on a Tory Burch tunic or taking a chance on an up-and-coming fashion house. It also has its own brand, called "Pretty Little Thing," of handmade dresses, skirts, tops, and cashmere, and a vintage corner. Like the decor, the service is deliberately old-fashioned, but the selection includes decidedly modern looks from designers such as AKA, Eryn Brinie, JBrand, Kirribilla, T-Bags, and Twenty8Twelve.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Thursdays 11 am to 6:30 pm, Fridays 11 am to 6 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
358 Atlantic Avenue
Boerum Hill
Brooklyn , New York
Tel: 718 797 9190
Subway: A or C train to Hoyt Street
The Boerum Hill menswear boutique that set up shop in spring 2006 on Atlantic Avenue added a much-needed jolt of sartorial panache to the neighborhood. It's an intriguing space, with salvaged lamp fixtures, taxidermy, the odd assortment of antique tools, and brick walls painted over with lacquer. The emphasis is on labels that adhere to solid craftsmanship: Henley shirts from Maine-based Rogues Gallery and denim by Rag & Bone are staples alongside Hollander & Lexer's in-house label of shirts, jackets, and slacks. Dandyish brands such as Paul Smith fill in the gaps, though, as do found objects such as leather belts studded with coins the Moroccan-born owner finds on his foraging trips abroad. It's also something of a lifestyle store, with its Moleskine journals, shaving kits from Acqua Shave, wool blankets, and canvas doctor's bags by Billy Kirk. Across the street is their furniture store, Darr (369 Atlantic Ave.; 718-797-9733; www.shopdarr.com).
Open Monday through Saturday 11 am to 7 pm, Sunday noon to 6 pm.
6 Main Street
Southampton , New York
Tel: 631 287 6277
To supply this home-design store at the far end of Southampton's Main Street retail drag, proprietor John Heilmann relies on his terrific eye and spot-on sensibility. Driftwood candelabra, coral candlesticks, sea grass rugs, and antique bookends carved into the shape of dachshunds and Boston terriers are just some of the trappings of the genteel seaside life sold here. Further temptations include Molton Brown scented candles, striped Sunbrella pillows, nickel-glass hurricane lamps, and quartz salt and pepper shakers. Even the briefest browse around this boutique will make you want to snap up one of the chic waxed duffel bags Heilmann sells and fill it with desirable loot.—Updated by Darrell Hartman
Open daily 11 am to 5 pm.
1620 N. Orange Avenue
Orlando , Florida
Tel: 407 898 5000
At Hopscotch, British owner Tracey Cant aims to stock things that other area stores don't, including Dutch children's clothing, Brazilian kids' shoes, wooden toys, and handy baby accessories (two words: bottle sling). Picky moms flock here for organic cotton baby clothing, super-soft knits, and tutu-style skirts that just beg for a photo shoot. The shoe selection is particularly fun: mini gladiator sandals, boots, and the Wee Squeak line (they do a fine job of letting you know where your toddler is toddling). If you find more than can fit in your suitcase, grab some kid-size luggage by Trunki your little one can drag through the airport on his or her own.—Terry Ward
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm.
1502 E. Buena Vista Drive
Lake Buena Vista , Florida
Tel: 407 827 0112
Despite being smack-dab in the middle of the theme park corridor, this shop in Downtown Disney's West Side lives up to its "Uncommon Gallery" billing. Orlando is all about fantasy, and the works here are definitely fantastical. Jasmine Becket-Griffith, who lives right around the corner in Celebration, Florida, creates limited-edition acrylic paintings of mermaids and fairies that will warm any preteen girl's heart. Also look for works by Tampa artist Michelle Mardis, whose large, abstract animal paintings are a Warholian take on the family pet. There's a huge selection of handblown glassworks, as well, though perhaps a bit tricky to transport home. Naturally, the shop will ship.—Terry Ward
Open Sundays through Thursdays 10:30 am to 11 pm , Fridays and Saturdays 10:30 am to midnight.
Owner Marlene Hu Aldaba made her name among the D.C. style set for this Georgetown temple to shoes. The shop's serene white interior keeps the focus on the footwear, from dainty Lanvin flats to green patent-fur wedges by Phillip Lim. Hu's clothing store across the street expands on that aesthetic, mixing buzzy fashion lines like Yigal Azrouël and Proenza Schouler with emerging international labels such as Turkey's Beatrixe and Sweden's Erro.Colleen Clark
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
312 Shawmut Avenue
South End
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 292 0900
An unexpectedly successful blend of casual California style and New England sophistication, Hudson is a tiny home-decor shop that sells both vintage and contemporary pieces in a laid-back space; you'll often find the owner's golden retriever hanging out there. She—the owner, not the dog—designs the throw pillows you'll see stacked on the Verellen sofas; there's also the latest from California designers Oly, bedding by Rachel Ashwell's Shabby Chic, and smaller knickknacks that make great gifts.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm (Thursdays till 7 pm), Sundays 11 am to 5 pm.
353 S. La Brea
West Hollywood , California
Tel: 323 965 9666
Former Women's Wear Daily editor Michelle Dalton Tyree owns this shop, and she's decorated it just like a Parisian atelier (there are even reproduction Louis XVI chairs). She carries, naturally, women's high-end clothing, by designers like Zac Posen, Behnaz Sarafpour, and Oscar de la Renta. There's also an array of pastel-colored cashmere sweaters from Lutz & Patmos, and hats by Stephen Jones (he made the bridal piece worn by Dita Von Teese when she married Marilyn Manson).
Closed Mondays except by appointment.
873 N. Rush Street
Chicago , Illinois
Tel: 312 587 1000
Owner Ikram Goldman refined her impeccable if sometimes quirky taste at Ultimo, Chicago's most famous fashion house, before opening her eponymous boutique. Her moodily lit, 4,000-square-foot space features a mix of sophisticated women's clothing and accessories from the most coveted designer labels—from flirty Robert Clergerie footwear to extravagant, one-of-a-kind Rochas gowns. There's also a small selection of vintage wares handpicked by Goldman.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm and by appointment.
469 Broome Street
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 219 2284
New York ingenues hailed the arrival of French brand Isabel Marant's first U.S. store in 2010 as a fashion coup. A certain kind of cool girl was left disgruntled about it, however—the kind who used to be able to return from Paris with that covetable little item that all her friends would envy. Now those friends can just walk into Marant's quirky-cool NYC boutique, with its polished concrete floors and off-kilter blond-wood dressing rooms, and find those insouciantly glamorous things for themselves, without a transatlantic flight. Marant's genius lies in her way with textures that create a lived-in, slightly vintage patina, making every garment feel like an old favorite. Silky-soft boyfriend sweaters, superbly tailored blazers, and slinky cocktail dresses that hang off the body just so are the kind of pieces you reach for time and again, particularly when you're keen to be mistaken for a cigarette-dangling Parisian chanteuse.—Emma Sloley
Open Mondays through Fridays 11 am to 7 pm, Saturdays 11 am to 8 pm, and Sundays noon to 6 pm.
171A Hamakua Drive
Kailua , Hawaii
Tel: 808 263 4527
Owner and artist in residence Geoff Lee uses traditional Italian techniques at his hot and cold glassmaking facility. The results, for sale in the attached shop, include lovely sake sets, vases, and decorative pieces adorned with abstract nature motifs. Though the heavily tattooed Lee studied in Washington State with renowned glass artist Benjamin Moore, he brings his own Hawaiian punk-rock sensibility to his bold designs.
Closed Thursdays and Sundays.
1164 S. Robertson Boulevard
Los Angeles , California
Tel: 310 246 9727
Clothes worn on television and film shoots are available here. One day this place will have nothing of any earthly interest; the next, there will be a designer suit (perhaps worn once on Guiding Light or As the World Turns) at a fraction of the retail price. It helps to be a small size, since these clothes were fitted for flab-free actors.
Town Square
Jackson , Wyoming
Tel: 800 858 2114
If you can look past the kitschy bear figurines and moose Christmas ornaments, this old-school general store is worth sorting through. It carries everything from cheeky, faux antique signs ("Hippies Use Side Door") to surprisingly cool antler lamps.
8914 Melrose Avenue
West Hollywood , California
Tel: 310 276 7277
The son of Maxfield owner Tommy Perse, James is famous for his high-style, supersoft t-shirts for men, women, and kids. The minimalist-chic shop also carries leggings, slouchy track pants, and sexy jersey dresses and skirts. There's a second store in Malibu (3835 Cross Creek Rd.; 310-456-0354).
4317 Harding Road
Nashville , Tennessee
Tel: 615 292 4188
A Belle Meade classic, this boutique is where old-school Nashville dames get their fix of high-end clothes and accessories by designers including Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, Prada, and Balenciaga. The service is impeccable (expect a phone call when shipments of your favorite designer's clothes arrive) and discreet, which makes it a must-shop for stars like Faith Hill and Reese Witherspoon. Bargain hunters wait patiently for the store's famous tent sale each July, where the former season's styles are marked 70 to 90 percent off.
Open Mondays through Fridays 10 am to 5:30 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm.
1885 N. Clybourn Avenue
Chicago , Illinois
Tel: 773 248 8180
Jayson Home, on the far edge of Lincoln Park, is quirky-chic enough to qualify as the smaller but feisty Midwestern sister of ABC Carpet & Home, New York City's epicenter of bobo decor. In fact, there isn't a square millimeter of this rambling salute to global tchotchkes that doesn't offer something covetable. The big pieces skip between Gustavian, French Provincial, English library, and contempo (perhaps canopy wing chairs or Byron twig tables). But if you don't want to invest in something important, consider the dizzying range of petrified wood stumps, Belgian linen bedding, antique Suzani throw pillows, and chandeliers in every configuration. The store also hosts an in-house floral shop and regular flea markets stocked with vintage Euro finds.—Raphael Kadushin
Open Mondays and Thursdays 9 am to 8 pm; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 9 am to 6 pm; Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm; and Sundays 11 am to 5 pm.
449 W. 14th Street
West Village
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 206 1272
Jeffrey Kalinsky is nothing less than a New York legend: The former Barneys shoe buyer has made thousands of fashion-hungry downtown men and women very happy since opening his eponymous store in the Meatpacking District in 1999 (long before it was de rigueur to open up shop here). His was the first high-end designer department store in the neighborhood, and these days the Chanel-and-diamond-wearing crowd happily makes the pilgrimage downtown to see what's he's got in store. The long narrow space isfittingly enoughreminiscent of a catwalk, with an elegant fountain breaking up the various sections. Staff are surprisingly free of snootiness (in fact, we'd venture to say it's one of the friendliest upscale retailers around) and it's a sheer delight to browse the racks for red carpetready offerings from names like Valentino, Gucci, and Giambattista Valli.
Open Mondays through Wednesdays and Fridays 10 am to 8 pm, Thursdays 10 am to 9 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, and Sundays 12.30 to 6 pm.
110 Old Santa Fe Trail
Santa Fe , New Mexico
Tel: 505 988 1414
When all the jewelry in Santa Fe starts to look the same, head to this shop on the Plaza with an excellent portfolio of contemporary jewelers. Most designs are quirky but accessible, and some—like artist Kit Carson's massive crosses with semiprecious stones and subtle skulls—display Southwestern flair without surrendering to kitsch. Other pieces to note are Sydney Lynch's fusion necklaces of bright gold and silver and Kathie Harper-Revak's sea glass and turquoise bracelets.
Open daily 10 am to 5 pm.
If you're looking for a significant keepsake from Hawaii, one that won't lose its value and could possibly become an heirloom, consider investing in some traditional Hawaiian adornments.
The shiny gold nameplate necklaces, rings, and bracelets with ornate enamel lettering that you see on the locals may look like hip-hop bling, but they have their roots in 19th-century England. Known as Hawaiian Heritage Jewelry, the style became fashionable in the islands after the last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani, received a bracelet like this from Queen Victoriathen began giving away similar pieces herself. The classic look—yellow gold with black enamel lettering—was originally reserved for periods of mourning. Now, it's ubiquitous, but you can also opt for a variation on the style in platinum or white, pink, or green gold and have your name emblazoned in pink, white, blue, or green enamel lettering. If you don't have a Hawaiian name, use the old Missionary trick of translating your given name into Hawaiian. But you might just want to default to the classic "Kuuipo," meaning "sweetheart." Prices range from $150 upward, and sources include several well-known jewelry stores: Try Na Hoku (3750 Wailea Alanui; 808-891-8040; www.nahoku.com). Pawn shops are also good places to look, if you don't mind a secondhand piece.
Even more collectable are Niihau shell leis, made of microsize shells (fewer than 5 millimeters across) found on the completely isolated, privately owned island of Niihau. A multistrand lei can cost upward of $10,000, but buyers should keep in mind that this sort of piece takes three to five years to painstakingly complete by hand; what's more, the leis are critical to the survival of Niihau's 160 inhabitants, and the amount of quality shells washing ashore is dwindling due to changes in climate and ocean conditions. Kahelelani shells—the only ones gemologists will grade and appraise for insurance purposes—are the most prized and range in color from soft pink to deep brown. Authenticity is an issue, but you can buy with confidence from reputable galleries like Maui Hands (612 Front St., Lahaina; 808-667-9898; www.mauihands.com).
6706 Highway 128
Healdsburg , California
Tel: 707 433 1212
The most sophisticated country store you're ever likely to stumble upon, this green and yellow shop carries everything from gourmet sandwiches to sock monkeys. The rustic shed out back brims with antiques and folk art collected by the owner's parents. On warm days, order a bowl of chocolate pudding and head to the glossy, cherry-red picnic tables on the back patio, where dense Sonoma County grapevines overhead provide cool shade. The shop also carries its own house-made condiments, such as fig-and-olive spread, which make wonderful gifts for foodie friends. Note that the shop is ten minutes outside Healdsburg; though the store is reason enough to hop in the car, plan to tack on a visit to the surrounding Alexander Valley, one of area's most scenic wine-producing regions.
Open Mondays through Fridays 7 am to 5 pm.
315 Bowery
East Village
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 358 0315
John Varvatos had a lot to prove in 2008 when he opened his flagship store within the hallowed walls that once housed the legendary Bowery nightclub CBGB. The fearless menswear designer shrewdly ran with the space's history, playing up the rock 'n' roll connection with props like guitars, custom-built stages, and walls of speakers. The clothes have a rock star sensibility as well: skinny suits, distressed leather boots, and vintage band T-shirts. Varvatos' ubiquitous ad campaign features music legends such as Iggy Pop and Alice Cooper.—Emma Sloley
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 8 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
3314 E. Spring Street
Seattle , Washington
Tel: 206 838 7496
This loftlike boutique anchoring Madrona's quiet retail cluster sells high-fashion clothing with a conscience. In the hands of green designers like Stewart + Brown, Loyale, and Virginia Johnson, bamboo is woven into party wear, and organic cotton becomes playful wrap skirts and office-worthy separates. Loomstate denim, silk dresses by Sir, and handcrafted cashmere from Souchi are other coveted items.
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 11 am to 6 pm.
1023 State Street
Santa Barbara , California
Tel: 805 560 7424
Fashion-label obsessives of all ages love this State Street style emporium that caters to men, women, and even babies. Oh, yeah, and there are home accessories, too. The sheer amount of merchandisefrom high-ticket bamboo linens to pint-size grand pianos for the mini-Mozartscan be a little dizzying, but the shopping options are endless. Women's lines include sophisticated separates from the likes of Jenni Kayne, Brunello Cucinelli, Rebecca Taylor, and Joie, while duds for dudes include Masons, Vilebrequin, Agave, and seersucker pants from Hartford. No doubt some of the price tags can be intimidating, but there's a semiaffordable selection of gear from Tse Say (Tse Cashmere's moderately priced sister line) as well as second-skin knit T-shirts from Majestic.
Open Mondays through Thursdays 10 am to 6 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, and Sundays 11 am to 6 pm.
550 South St.
Honolulu , Hawaii
Tel: 808 531 3165
Widely considered to be the best, these ukuleles have been made in Hawaii since 1916. You'll find them for sale everywhere, but coming to this factory location has added benefits. First, it's fun to take the free tour of the premises (10:30 a.m. Tuesday through Friday) and get schooled in the instrument's colorful history. Second, you can test out all nine different varieties of uke and even order one, if you like; your instrument will be shipped to you about a month later. Third, you'll get a ten percent discount on prices, which start at $600.
230 Bridge Street
Vail , Colorado
Tel: 970 479 7474
Must have the perfect pair of Lucchese boots or the Stetson hat that fits your head just so? Kemo Sabe is the place to look. From belts and belt buckles to leather chaps and lassos, your inner cowboy will be sated.
95 Spring Street, Second Floor
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 226 8601
Kiosk is a well-curated design shop that sells products from different countries, available for several months at a time. The inaugural exhibit in December 2005 featured Japanese designs, more recent collections have come from Germany, Bulgaria, Turkey, and India. To describe the offerings as quirky sounds like a cliché, but there's no one word to encompass the selection, which could include ceramics, office supplies, baby products, electronics, and anything else that catches the eye of owner Alisa Grifo, a former set designer and props stylist. Prices are very reasonable, and the products, for the most part, won't be found anywhere else in town.
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 1 to 7 pm.
96 Greene Street
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 941 9656
The owners of this trailblazing Soho boutique, Beth Buccini and Sarah Easley, think like fashion editors: They sift through the endless sartorial offerings that come down the catwalks each season and manage to choose exactly what the cool girls want to wear right now. The light-filled space reads like a contemporary gallery for fashion, with a Lucite roof, glossy red railings, and low-slung sofas (all the better for viewing the works of art hanging on the racks). Part of this downtown institution's appeal is the blend of reverencehigh style devotees can name-check the fashion world's most important labels (Lanvin, Alaïa, Balenciaga, Nina Ricci)and kitsch (supplement your museum-worthy dress purchase with a limited-edition, Japanese-inspired Kirna Zabête toy or some old-school candies). Downstairs you'll find children's wear, pet accessories, and lingerie.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
631 Toulouse Street
French Quarter
New Orleans , Louisiana
Tel: 504 528 8382
A visit to the Kitchen Witch is like raiding your grandmother's prized cookbook collection. After Katrina, owner Philipe LaMancusa moved his funky culinary bookshop from Rampart Street to this location closer to the center of the Quarter with the help of co-owner Debbie Lindsey. Out of their selection of 5,000-plus titles, you'll find the latest Alain Ducasse tome, Creole cookbooks, first editions of Paul Prudhomme's books, and little-known New Orleans dining guides from the 1950s. They've also got a stash of vintage vinyl in the back.
Open Mondays and Wednesdays through Sundays 10 am to 6 pm.
2419 First Avenue
Seattle , Washington
Tel: 206 441 1999
An exceptional clothing store stocked with a wide selection of hip T-shirts, fine button-down shirts, and cult jeans for both men and women. Beyond ready-to-wear, there's a talented tailor on staff who specializes in reproductions, alterations, and vintage fabrics. First, consult with owner Scott Kuhlman, who creates the initial sketch based on your description. Then choose the material from among the hundreds of bolts of fine European and Japanese fabrics stored in the back. Six weeks and a couple of thousand dollars later—voilà!—the best-fitting suit you've ever owned.
476 Fifth Ave. South
Naples , Florida
Tel: 239 649 8607
A sandy floor strewn with coconuts, banana leafbacked displays, plus Jamaican, Senegalese, and other world music set the scene for an eclectic mix of vividly colored Haitian folk art, paintings, home accessories, papier-mâché fish and sea creatures, masks, and greeting cards. And for Naples' funkiest accessories, this is the place for wood and bone bracelets and turtle toe rings that you just can't find at home.
460 N. Orlando Avenue
Winter Park , Florida
Tel: 407 677 8697
A princess crown and some Mickey ears are the most predictable Central Florida souvenirs. That's all well and good, but for something out of the Orlando-ordinary, head to this Winter Park toy store where a focus on inspiring and unusual kids' toys leads to some fun finds. In addition to novelty items (giant stuffed Dubble Bubble wrapper, anyone?), there are appealing educational toys such as a grow-your-own crystal set or fossil excavating set. And if those monogrammed Mickey ears don't do it for your little ones, get a CD with songs that incorporate their names into the lyrics. They will be the coolest kids at show-and-tell.—Terry Ward
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 9 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
1317 Washington Street
South End
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 542 6464
Beautiful, useful things abound at Lekker, a home-furnishings shop that's building a wide reputation. The expertly curated selection (furniture, gifts, glassware, bedding, and accent pieces) doesn't just follow trends, it anticipates them. Fancy a glass-and-stainless-steel water jug from Blomus or John Derian découpaged dishware but don't have space in your suitcase? No matter. Shipping is free.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Fridays 10 am to 6 pm, Saturdays 11 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
400 West Lexington Street
Baltimore , Maryland
Tel: 410 685 6169
Since 1782, Baltimoreans have flocked to this downtown site for fresh seafood, meat, fruits, and vegetables. Completely rebuilt in 2002, the complex holds 140 merchant stalls. Grab a coffee from Konstant's, a fixture since 1896, and wander the busy aisles to family-owned Faidley's Seafood (410-752-6461; www.faidleyscrabcakes.com), an anchor tenant since 1886 with a raw bar and tubs of crab, shrimp, fish—and even muskrat and raccoon in season (Jan. 1 to March 15).
Open Mondays through Saturdays 8:30 am to 6 pm.
18 Baldwin Avenue
Paia , Hawaii
Tel: 808 579 6055
This beauty-junkie outpost in Paia is a good place to pick up locally produced products. Look for volcano-scented bath salts (very masculine) from the Big Island's Ola Hawaii, or spritzes and lotions from Ali'i Kula Lavender, scented with the 45 varieties of lavender the company grows on the slopes of Haleakala. The shop also stocks tropics-inspired items such as Pure Fiji's eco-friendly bath and body oils and Kai's fragrances, containing the essences of gardenia and pikake (a small, white, native flower). Lilikoi can be perfect for items that are hard to get in Hawaii (like three-wick Voluspa candles in decorative tins), which come in handy if you need a hostess gift for a local.
1131 Coast Village Road
Montecito , California
Tel: 805 695 0625
Style mavens love Lily, a jewel box of a shop with an eclectic mix of reasonably priced luxury goods, dreamy-soft bed linens, furniture, chandeliers, and exclusive jewelry from local artisan Susan Cummings and Mademoiselle Camille, a designer who collects antique lace in France, from which she creates cuffs, necklaces, collars, and brooches embellished with gems and rhinestones.
South Beach
Miami Beach , Florida
Miami isn't a city that lends itself to window-shopping and strolling the streets. But the pedestrian mall on Lincoln Road is an exception. Originally laid out in the '50s by the area's visionary architect, Morris Lapidus, and recently renovated, this eight-block outdoor promenade is populated by boutiques, cafés, and Rollerbladers. Several big chains—Pottery Barn, Diesel, L'Occitane, and the Gap—have outposts, but there are also a few original boutiques springing up, plus a surprisingly solid bookstore, Books & Books. On Sundays, there's a farmers' market, and every other Sunday from October to May, an antiques and collectibles market sets up shop.
12 Old South Wharf
Nantucket , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 228 1937
New York jewelry designers Pam Diem and Deborah Knox were actresses before becoming jewelry designers, and their bold, brassy line of jewelry evokes old Hollywood and Broadway's golden age. Each piece is handmade and named after the female character, musical, or movie that inspired itthe Daisy Buchanan, for example, a necklace made of two strands of pedal-shaped amazonite and clear quartz and separated by vermeil beads; the Holly Golightly, also a necklace, is made of three braided strands with alternating red, pink, and green briolettes. This, their new flagship store in the former Capricorn Gallery space on Old South Wharf, has been long anticipated by Nantucket shoppers.
Open late May through September.
1804 N. Orange Avenue
Orlando , Florida
Tel: 407 898 6610
Morocco native Ali Najy, the proprietor of this escapist home-decor store on Orlando's Antique Row, returns frequently to source the exotic oversize brass lanterns, decorative ceramics, and mosaic tile fountains that make his large shop a veritable Aladdin's cave of discovery. Among the unique items are enormous carved cedar doors from Moroccan riads and beautifully tiled tables created in the souks of Marrakesh. The big items, such as tile garden fountains and antique tables, command the most attention. But keep an eye out for little finds of exquisite beauty, too, such as colored glass bottles for storing perfume and rosewater, silver kettles for Moroccan mint tea, and runners handwoven by Berber artisans.—Terry Ward
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm.
Miami , Florida
Miami, long dissed and dismissed for its sequin-obsessed fashion scene, is finally producing some standout, world-class talents. Take glitzy unisex designer Julian Chang, who has a loyal following of local Latina celebs (yep, Gloria Estefan is a fan). At his workshop/showroom in Biscayne Corridor, expect brocade and plenty of bare skin, two of his signature touches (6667 Biscayne Blvd.; 305-751-8900; www.julianchang.com). Couturier Rene Ruiz makes red carpet–ready clingy gowns with ample va-va-voom and displays them at his storefront in Miracle Mile, the retail hub in downtown Coral Gables that's experiencing a revitalization (2700 Ponce de Leon Blvd.; 305-445-2352; www.reneruiz.net).
434 North Coast Highway 101
Encinitas , California
Tel: 760 753 1382
Lou's Records—a staunch champion of the unusual and unexpected listening experience—is San Diego's favorite (and hippest) spot to buy vinyl. The owners of the 30-year-old shop take great care to keep the titles on the floor rich with obscure, avant-garde, and international releases. They also host in-store musical performances and record release parties. But don't let that scare you off: Lou's is intimate and friendly, and questions about records are actively encouraged.—Audrey Davidow
Open Mondays through Thursdays 10 am to 7 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to 9 pm, and Sundays 11 am to 7 pm.
Charleston , South Carolina
King Street is like tofuit takes on the flavor of whatever neighborhood it's soaking in. Where it touches the College of Charleston, the businesses serve the drinking and late-night-eating needs of the student body. Storefronts along the tourist-heavy downtown area are mostly mall staples like Talbot's, Williams-Sonoma, and Banana Republic. But get to the homey stretch between Clifford and Broad, and you'll see remnants of the old, genteel Charleston reflected in a long string of independently owned antique stores and galleries. A'Riga IV stocks antique objets d'art like decorative brass saddle ornaments, 18th-century porcelain cameos, and even a colorfully painted Italian apothecary jar dated 1690. Head down the street a bit to George C. Birlant for English silver, crystal, and china from the 18th and 19th centuries. For more wearable art, head to Ben Silver, which has kept local dandies looking sharp since 1929. The shop is known for exquisite tailoring, brass buttons, and regimental striped ties; its tradition of sending a welcome gift to incoming presidents has netted many thank-you notes from Commanders in Chief from Truman forward.
A'Riga IV open Mondays through Saturdays 10:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Geo. C. Birlant & Company open Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 5:30 pm.
Ben Silver Chalreston open Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 6 pm, Sundays 12 to 5 pm.
141 East Meadow Drive
Vail , Colorado
Tel: 970 479 0050
Yes, you are in the middle of Colorado. But why not dress like you are usually on the slopes in the Dolomites? Luca Bruno stocks highly styled, Italian-designed garb for men, women, and children at two locations in Vail (this location opened in the Solaris resort in December 2011).—Samantha Berman
171 South Pine Street
Telluride , Colorado
Tel: 970 728 3355
Lustre is one of Telluride's newest galleries, exhibiting and selling artwork and decor for the home or private collection. Stop by to browse the unique upholstered furniture collection from Austin Ranch, handcrafted in Texas, plus pieces in mixed media, including glass, sculpture, jewelry, and lighting.—Samantha Berman
387 Grove Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 863 3011
Rich hipsters with a hankering for avant-garde Belgian and Japanese designers shop with the big dogs at M.A.C., the longtime Hayes Valley mainstay for pricey-but-worth-it works of fashion art. Owned by stylish brother/sister duo Ben and Chris Ospital, the store is like a brick-walled curio cabinet for the family's collection of eclectic artworks and unexpected garments—if you've ever dreamed of a corset that looks exactly like a miniature men's three-piece suit, then this is the boutique for you. With a well-edited selection that includes A.F. Vandevorst, Tsumori Chisato, and Martin Margiela, there's no shortage of totally wearable and expertly tailored looks for clients with the means. The men's collection is really the highlight here, with a large offering of Dries Van Noten alongside Lanvin, Engineered Garments, and local label Turk + Taylor. Though there's often a killer sale rack for women, the men's clothing rarely goes on sale.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays 12 pm to 6 pm.
936 Pine Street
Philadelphia , Pennsylvania
Tel: 215 627 7797
The standout on Philadelphia's Antique Row (along Pine Street between 9th and Broad streets) is M. Finkel & Daughter, housed in a circa 1810 building since opening in 1947. There are two floors of 18th- and 19th-century furniture and period accessories, but the collection of samplers and other needlework from the 17th to mid-19th centuries is a goldmine for major museums and historical societies. Wannabe collectors can subscribe to their print catalog or order online.
Closed Saturdays and Sundays. Call ahead for hours.
2455 N. Main Street
Fort Worth , Texas
Tel: 817 624 3149
Since 1941 this premier maker of custom boots and saddles has done business at the corner of Main and Exchange in the Fort Worth Stockyards. At first you think you're in a high-end boutique stocked with surprisingly tasteful rhinestone cowgirl cocktail wear, Ermenegildo Zegna jackets, pure beaver cowboy hats, and emerald-studded gold belt buckles. The next room, however, is packed with utilitarian gear for real cowboys: saddles, spurs, gloves, bits, and bridles. The back room is equal parts cowboy and couture: The floor-to-ceiling display of M.L. Leddy's famous cowboy boots is shot through with colors you never imagined: turquoise kangaroo, chartreuse lizard, gold ostrich, and purple stingray (which has a glittery, finely pebbled surface). Turn them over for the sticker shock; most are four figures. If you want to spend more, custom-made boots take four to five months; this is where Elvis, LBJ, and the Shah of Iran got theirs. But real cowboys and cowgirlsstill a large part of Leddy's businesswill buy ostrich-skin boots as light and supple as Italian loafers, get right on their horses, and wear them for decades.
Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm.
57 Cannon Street
Charleston , South Carolina
Tel: 843 577 7740
South Carolina native Leigh Magar studied the old-school craft of millinery at New York's Fashion Institute of Technology before returning to her home state. Her chapeaus for both men and women change with the seasons (alpaca fedoras and cloches for winter, straw panama hats for summer) and are made from hand-dyed materials with handstitched details. It's comforting to know that if you need a custom-made matador's hat, she's got you covered.
Appointment only.
505 Front Street
Lahaina , Hawaii
Tel: 808 662 0696
Over in Lahaina, the Korean–Canadian Coulombe is starting quite a buzz with her little atelier of Versace-like print pareos and slinky cocktail dresses. Her clients include Paris Hilton, Teri Hatcher, and Halle Berry (did we mention that Maui is crawling with celebrities?). She also makes sexy, simple jewelry from Tahitian pearls that come in amazing hues ranging from chocolate to teal blue. Though Coulombe herself is warm and totally unpretentious, it's amusing to find a boutique with full-fashion attitude 40 feet from the ocean.
2207 Fern Street
San Diego , California
Tel: 619 563 4600
Make Good is a funky collective of local artisans, designers, and crafters hell-bent on giving throw-away items a second lease on life as up-cycled clothing, jewelry, and gifts. Cucapá beer-carton wallets from Bombyx, cashmere purses by Sophia Carolina, and hand-crafted letterpress cards are artfully displayed among vintage knickknacks and resale clothing you'd actually want to wear. We especially dig the rings made from buttons and Bottlehood's glasses crafted from sliced-off bottle bottoms. Many of the designers stop by the store and work on-site, turning the boutique's open floor space into a makeshift studio.—Audrey Davidow
Open Tuesdays through Thursdays noon to 8 pm, Fridays through Saturdays noon to 9 pm, and Sundays 10 am to 5 pm.
2-2560 Kaumualii Highway
Kalaheo , Hawaii
Tel: 808 332 6220
Malie's fruit, flower, and vine essences—gathered from the Garden Isle's rain forests and rich volcanic soil—are an all-natural way to bring the scents of the islands home with you. This boutique's star item is the Kokee room spray (or, if you prefer, reed diffuser) that perfectly captures the green scent of the native Hawaiian maile vine. Liquid hand soaps and lotions make good souvenirs if you're checking bags; otherwise, opt for an eco- and TSA-friendly soy candle. There are also spa kits and cases of Kona Red, an antioxidant elixir made of coffee berry skins (Hawaii's answer to açaí) that you can ship home. Prices vary, but the tab will likely be less than a treatment at the Grand Hyatt Spa, which uses Malie products.—Cathay Che
Open Mondays through Fridays 9 am to 4 pm.
The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center
2259 Kalakaua Avenue
Waikiki , Hawaii
Tel: 808 922 2216
Malie's fruit, flower, and vine essences—gathered from Kauai's rain forests and rich volcanic soil—have arrived in Waikiki (a tad more convenient than the Kauai store in Kalaheo!) at this boutique in the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. If you're not already a fan from stumbling upon these all-natural, organic scents at Hawaii's leading spas, here's your chance for a one-stop immersion. While the Kokee fragrance (the unisex scent of the Hawaiian maile vine) is still a favorite, the Orchid scent is so pretty, bright, and subtle that it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any of your female friends or relatives back home. Candles and body creams are easy to pack, but reed diffusers, liquid soaps, and room sprays are trickier—the good news is that you can have your entire order shipped home from the store.—Cathay Che
Open daily 9 am to 9 pm.
Vermonters easily shed their Birkenstock- and flannel-wearing reputation in the cute-chic town of Manchester, where the streets are lined with designer outlets, including Betsey Johnson (58 Depot St.; 802-366-1030), Giorgio Armani (Manchester Square; 802-362-1166), and Brooks Brothers (460 Depot St.; 802-362-7044). All told, there are more than 30 boutiques offering steep discounts, most a notch above those in typical discount megamalls. The traffic on Depot Street, especially on summer days, can be tiresome: Plan to walk, not drive, from one end to the other, and wind down by browsing through the Northshire Bookstore (4869 Main St.; 802-362-2200; www.northshire.com).
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, Sundays 10 am to 6 pm.
1922 Broadway
Nashville , Tennessee
Tel: 615 321 5444
There's no better way for a Nashville musician to say "I've arrived" than to take the stage in a custom-made Western suit from the atelier of Manuel Cuevas, fashion's "Rhinestone Rembrandt." Cuevas has made distinctive (read: flashy) stage wear for performing peacocks including Dolly Parton, Marty Stuart, Johnny Cash, and even Jack White, who plays with his band the Raconteurs wearing a Manuel-designed suit with bone appliqués. A couture getup like Jack's starts at $5,000, and includes Manuel's personal consultation. Those not blessed with a huge wardrobe budget can still bask in the rhinestone glow on the sales floor at his midtown atelier.
Open Mondays through Fridays 9 am to 6 pm.
In spite of calling Paris home these days, Marc Jacobs will always belong to New York, the city where his multifarious design talents reached their nexus. It's possible, given a few hours to spare, to experience the entirety of Jacobs's creative genius, from the refined, avant-garde lines of his ready-to-wear collection on Soho's Mercer Street, to the quirky-cute accessories stores in the West Village. Bleecker Street lays claim to four of the most sought-after shopfronts in the empire, including his diffusion line, Marc by Marc Jacobs, which has a devoted cult following. Window displays change with the seasons (and the whims of the design team). Expect anything from a sexed-up Santa posing with shoppers for Christmas portraits (Polaroids which are then plastered all over the windows) to beds of tulips heralding spring. While young women comprise Marc's most ardent fan base, he doesn't neglect the rest of the family: The West Village empire extends to a children's line, Little Marc, and a men's ready-to-wear store. To get the best perspective on just how beloved Mr. Jacobs's vision is in this town, drop by the accessories store, where his coveted handbags and shoes inspire mob scenes every weekend.
716 E. Washington Street
Orlando , Florida
Tel: 407 835 8855
Orlando's an easy-come, easy-go town, but this affordable women's boutique just a stone's throw from the burbling fountain in the heart of Thornton Park has managed to stay relevant to young and young-at-heart urban types since opening in 2000. Marie-France Bresia's store offers an affordably priced collection of frilly, floral sundresses, heeled booties, and handbags that all come in under the $60 mark. This is the place to go if you forgot to pack enough fun frocks or need a standout tank top to layer with jeans. It's not about brands here—come to splash out on a few new items on a whim. And at these prices, the spree will be guilt-free.—Terry Ward
Open Tuesdays and Wednesdays 11 am to 6 pm, Thursdays and Fridays 11 am to 6:30 pm, Saturdays 11 am to 6 pm, and Sundays noon to 5 pm.
1167 Third Street South
Naples , Florida
Tel: 239 263 4333
Don't be fooled by the girly pretty-in-pink exterior—inside, Marissa is pure sophistication. One of the most exclusive women's specialty stores in the country, Marissa Collections carries a mix of designers such as Alexander McQueen, Zac Posen, Anna Sui, Citizens of Humanity, and Rebecca Taylor. You'll also find Michael Kors, Dolce & Gabbana, Yves Saint Laurent, Prada, and Jil Sander in the well-edited collection, plus accessories and a spectacular selection of shoes.
8460 Melrose Place
West Hollywood , California
Tel: 323 782 1100
The fresh, simple, and stylish womenswear here has all been designed by Consuelo Castiglioni—the talented offspring of a family of Italian fur manufacturers. He tends to use a neutral palette of black, white, gray, and earth tones, punched up by bursts of bright scarlet red or lemon yellow. The shapes he chooses—swingy A-line coats and jackets, high-waisted mod- and kimono-style dresses—can be worn by women of all ages.
683 State Road
West Tisbury , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 693 6026
Watching glassblowers practicing their old-fashioned craft may take you back to elementary school field trips. But seeing the end result at Martha's Vineyard Glassworks will snap you out of it. The open studio anchors a gallery filled with vividly colored handblown glassware, from functional to sculptural, that's anything but old-fashioned.
1350 Main Street
St. Helena , California
Tel: 707 967 8787
Local interior designer Erin Martin sells unique furniture, art books, sculpture, lighting, and objets d'art in her soaring, stone-walled space, the most dramatic shop in downtown St. Helena. Styles range from an organic, sculptural aesthetic to high-tech, industrial modern design. You'll find furniture carved from driftwood, 1950s European automotive lights, and cast-bronze sculptures by Simon Toparovsky. Martin is also interested in indigenous cultures, so the ever-changing inventory might include mangrove lamps from Brazil, bamboo stools from Guatemala, or pressed-tin doors and petrified-wood tables from Morocco.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 4 pm.
613 Main Street
Park City , Utah
Tel: 435 645 7463
This duo of shops is fun for the whole family. Head down the stairs to Mary Jane's for footwear, apparel, and accessories for women by over 200 designers. Seychelles and Jeffrey Campbell provide boots and shoes, and local jewelry maker RJ Designs creates slightly off-center sterling-silver hoops and hearts that dangle from necklaces or are looped into earrings. Also look for clothing by Charlotte Ronson, Nick & Mo, and Scrapbook. In the smaller baby section, you'll find hot little leather shoes, plus hats, blankets, and outfits from Cade & Co.
Open Mondays through Thursdays 10 am to 6 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to 8 pm, Sundays 11 am to 6 pm.
At the Maui Community College
310 Kaahumanu Avenue
Kahului , Hawaii
Tel: 808 877 3100
Every Saturday from 7 am to 1 pm, local vendors set up shop on the grounds of the Maui Community College, across the street from the Queen Kaahumanu Mall. The front stalls (fruit preserves, macadamia nuts, coffee, handicrafts, fresh produce) are in orderly formation, but wander to the back and there are people with trunks of junk that seem to have just exploded wherever they could lay a tarp. It's a good place to get souvenirs and gifts (look out for the guy with the carved wood-frame mirrors), you might even find a vintage Maui T-shirt from the '80s.
7 N. Market Street
Wailuku , Hawaii
Tel: 808 249 0215
MauiThing combines two things you don't often find on the island: fashion and attitude. The energy here isn't angry—it's empowered by clean living and the belief that life on Maui can't be beat. The boutique in Wailuku sells duds that put a fun twist on the Maui uniform of T-shirts and sundresses, with funky designs and socially and environmentally conscious messages. With nary an item over $40 (average tees are about $20), this is a good spot to pick up a unique memento—or a new wardrobe if your airline loses your luggage.
Open Mondays through Fridays 10 am to 6 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 4 pm.
333 Worth Avenue
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 805 8611
Shopping for the home (your second or third, that is) is a vital retail activity. Already popular in Manhattan, the Hamptons, and Los Angeles, Mecox offers an eclectic mix of coffee-table books, bibelots, and contemporary furniture.
4716 N. Lincoln Avenue
Chicago , Illinois
Tel: 773 989 0900
In 1875, Chicago pharmacist Peter Merz's clientele was mostly recent European immigrants. His staff spoke several languages, and they specialized in hand-mixing Old World herbal remedies and traditional formulas while customers sat and chatted in leather chairs. Today, although the shop stocks familiar wholesome brands like Burt's Bees and Tom's of Maine, most of the high-quality toiletries and personal care items are either European, hard-to-find, or both. Woods of Windsor talcum powder? Yes. The toothbrush with 5,500 bristles that was designed by the two architects? It's called the Radius, and it's here, too. That French healing balm your grandmother used to have? If you can't find it here, it's probably no longer being made or imported to the States.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 6 pm.
106C Paseo Del Pueblo Norte
Taos , New Mexico
Tel: 505 758 1372
One of the most successful Taos painters of recent years is Miguel Martinez, who works in mixed oils and pastels to depict beguiling local women with limpid eyes. The McCormick gallery sells works of his from small paintings to giant canvases, and takes commissions. It also represents New Mexican Alvin Gill-Tapia, whose Missions Series renders adobe buildings and churches in neon colors—unexpected and arresting.
Open daily 10 am to 5 pm.
185 W. Broadway
Jackson , Wyoming
Tel: 307 734 1009
Video vixens have to get their Western-themed getups from somewhere, and the likes of Jessica Simpson and Britney Spears ring up Michelle Julene. She designs one-of-a-kind laced and embroidered jeans, fringed tops, and fur-trimmed leather jackets. Her form-fitting clothes exist at that fabulous intersection of high-class and high-camp.
18 Water-Cromwell Lane
Vineyard Haven , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 693 1997
Better known as Carly Simon's store (she's actually one of the partners; the owner is Tamara Weiss), Midnight Farm has all the multiculti charms of a more rarefied (and pricier) Anthropologie. The warehouse-like space is roughly divided into housewares and hippie-chick clothes. Look for shabby-chic couches in antique-looking prints, carved wooden salad bowls, lamps adorned with beading and seashells, Dosa silk jewel-toned dresses, Notify jeans, Frye boots, and hand-crocheted sweaters and mini-caftans for kids. There's also a selection of eco-friendly bath products, jewelry, art books, and world-music CDsincluding, of course, Carly's latest.
It's no coincidence that when people think of shopping in New York, they think of midtownthe buzzy commercial center of Manhattan harbors some of the country's best, and most expensive, retail space. Upper Madison Avenue is a virtual encyclopedia of the world's finest luxury brands, while tony Fifth Avenue has its own share of gilded names (many top brands have outposts on both). New York's great department stores, including Bergdorf Goodman, Barneys, and Henri Bendel, can each warrant full-day excursions in themselves.
There's no such thing as downtime at Tiffany & Co.'s Fifth Avenue flagship. From the moment those hallowed doors open until they clang shut at night, the place is crawling with dazzled tourists, Upper East Side dowagers looking to add to their collections, and starry-eyed couples shopping for the big one. There's no surer way to qualify for parent of the year than by taking junior family members to FAO Schwarz. File past the toy soldier doormen into a cavernous space filled with everything from life-size stuffed animals to charmingly old-fashioned wooden toys. Art and design lovers find nirvana at the MoMA store, with for-sale versions of the high-design exhibits, Alvar Aalto glass vases, wacky Lomo cameras, and plenty of oddball items such as oversize novelty phones that really work and a modernist Flexus glass menorah.
Tom Ford's three-story flagship near Barneys is tricked out like a gentlemen's pied à terre with everything the modern dandy needs, from a tailoring service to a fragrance department. A few blocks north is Christian Louboutin, whose iconic red-soled heels are the cornerstone of many a New York woman's shoe collection. You don't have to be a bride-to-be to appreciate the wares at Vera Wang, a study in understated chic, from the vases of dark purple lilies to the racks of beautifully tailored resort and ready-to-wear at the top of the spiral staircase. (Viewing bridal wear is by appointment only.)
It might not be on the gilded retail strip, but Jean's Silversmiths is a gem worth hunting downan insider source for vintage and estate jewelry as well as over 2,000 flatware patterns and sterling silver sets from American, English, Danish, and European designers.
449 Octavia Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 626 6221
At Miette Confiserie, the sunny French-style sweet shop in Hayes Valley, the world is your candy oyster—or gummy rat, chocolate carrot, or sweet tart skull. While there's none of Wonka's lickable wallpaper, the flowery pastel-hued space with cheerful shop girls and gumdrop topiaries is a sugarcoated backdrop for overflowing jars and tables laden with imported herbaceous chocolates, artisan lollipops, and Parisian macarons. The in-house kitchen dolls out homemade caramels, marshmallows, toffee, and likewise serves as a sweets laboratory for local culinary talent. Wash down a fresh-spun pouf of organic cotton candy with an elderflower spritzer. For artisan cakes and assorted pastries, check out their sister shop, Miette Pâtisserie, in the Ferry Building.
Open daily 11 am to 7 pm.
3801 Magazine Street
New Orleans , Louisiana
Tel: 504 891 2005
Local jewelry designer Mignon Faget built her reputation on whimsical collections of Louisiana-themed rings, bracelets, necklaces, and other playful baubles. The selection runs the gamut from dangling okra earrings to tie tacks shaped like red beans. The newest symbol of New Orleans's rebirth, the fleur-de-lis, features prominently in recent collections.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm.
1760 Quechee Main Street
Quechee , Vermont
Tel: 802 295 2711
Although Irish glassblowing wizard Simon Pearce has established more than a dozen retail stores around the United States, the Mill is his original American enterprise. Opened in 1981, it's as pretty as the pieces he produces. Here, visitors can gawk at glassblowing artisans and, on the weekends, potters as well. And, of course, pick up wedding presents galore, from linens and throws to pint glasses and cake plates. Lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch at the adjoining restaurant, with a menu of Irish comfort food, is also a work of art.
Open daily 10 am to 9 pm.
3032 University Avenue
San Diego , California
Tel: 619 298 7933
With two locations, one in La Jolla and the other in North Park, Mimi & Red has quickly emerged as the go-to fashion spot for femme-favorites at reasonable prices. This laid-back boutique lures both surfers and socialites looking for the latest fashion staples—from breezy summer maxi dresses by Rebecca Beeson to cool autumn ponchos from BB Dakota—as well as other essentials, including lotions, potions, and jewelry from Mimi & Lu.—Audrey Davidow
Open Mondays 11 am to 6 pm, Tuesdays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, and Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm.
Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
3663 Las Vegas Boulevard S.
Las Vegas , Nevada
Tel: 888 800 8284
The newly minted Planet Hollywood (formerly the Aladdin) has also changed the name of the casino's shops to Miracle Mile (they used to be called the Desert Passage). Nonetheless, you'll find mostly the same 170 shops, including H&M, Ben Sherman, and French Connection. Miracle Mile targets designer-conscious shoppers on a tighter budget than those who shop at the Forum Shops or Via Bellagio, so it's surprising how few people visit this mall.
Open Sundays through Thursdays 10 am to 11 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to midnight.
1626 14th Street N.W.
Washington, D.C.
Tel: 202 232 8171
Many a funky apartment in D.C. owes at least some of its decor to this whimsical space on 14th street in the hip U Street Corridor. True to its name, the store is stocked with vintage furnishings from chrome bar carts to tiki stools, as well as all manner of "whatnot." And it's the whatnot—1960s Playboys one day, paint-by-number coloring books another—that keeps locals coming back. Well, that and the affordable prices.Colleen Clark
Open daily 11 am to 7 pm.
54 Main Street
Nantucket , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 228 1080
Like many other independent bookstores, Mitchell's was at risk of falling victim to Internet competition compounded by soaring rents. That was until Wendy Schmidt, a summer resident and wife of Google CEO Eric Schmidt, bought the building and ensured the store's survival. After four decades, the business itself has been sold to two longtime employees. With 40,000 titles crammed into its small space, Mitchell's has everything from light beach reads to serious literature, but it's best known for the back room filled with books about Nantucket whaling and maritime lorethe most complete selection of its kind. Local authors sign their books on Saturday mornings, and popular readings are held in the nearby Atheneum.
6 Main Street
Vineyard Haven , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 693 8240
Vintage kitsch and eclectic modern gifts share floor space at Emily Milstein's funky boutique. If you're not in the market for a 1930s Brownie camera, a calico kitchen apron from the '50s, or a stack of the Golden Books you once read as a child, you can check out newer-wave wares like candy-colored porcelain tableware from Mud Australia and Gecko Traders' eco-totes, made from recycled Cambodian rice sacks. There are also such retro finds as Einstein's Energy Bars and Glee Natural Gum, along with vintage women's and new children's clothes and housewares.
Open Thursdays through Sundays April through December.
2210 Kettner Boulevard
San Diego , California
Tel: 619 239 4788
A haven for serious design with splashes of whimsy, this Little Italy warehouse is the go-to store for cool art, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and funky modern decor. Big-statement lighting ranges from clusters of glass orbs to seven-foot life-size horse lamps. It's also the place to find stylish furniture that could double as art, such as the ultramod sofas and chairs from Artifort.—Audrey Davidow
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
112 Don Gaspar
Santa Fe , New Mexico
Tel: 505 992 0800
This photo gallery moved from downtown Manhattan to Santa Fe after 9/11, and there's an interesting dissonance in finding many of the 20th century's most famous (and infamous) photojournalism prints on a quiet Santa Fe street. The gallery represents some 50 photographers or their estates, and you'll see everything from original prints of Eddie Adams's famous shot of a Vietnam policeman executing a Vietcong prisoner to Joe Rosenthal's Iwo Jima flag raising. It also hosts as many as six shows a year; a 2007 Steve Schapiro retrospective included shots of Edie Sedgwick cavorting with Andy Warhol, Martin Luther King in Alabama, and Truman Capote sitting on a bed. You'll find exceptional works by luminaries such as Margaret Bourke-White, Sebastião Salgado, Harry Benson, and Jacques-Henri Lartigue, and a collection of AP and Life magazine photographers. Heady stuff, even if you don't want to buy.
Open daily 10 am to 5 pm.
150 Greene Street
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 204 7100
It would be easy to mistake Moss for a bite-size museum: Items in this design store range from porcelain plates from the 18th century to the latest Scandinavian furniture. But yes, it's all for sale, from the pocket flashlight by Lexon Design of France, which costs less than $20, to a bright-red, vintage Borsani articulating chairto the tune of $6,500. Owner Murray Moss picks the goods himself and originally built a reputation by selling housewares and objets d'art by heavyweights like Ted Muehling, Hella Jongerius, and Tord Boontje. You never know what to expectyou might find a classic Sèvres porcelain bust of Molière in the corner or a set of Laguiole knives with candy-colored handles by the counter. There is also an art gallery next door.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
224 E. Colorado Avenue
Telluride , Colorado
Tel: 970 369 4240
Telluride is the type of place where dogs are de facto decision makers who govern the daily schedule of their "masters." Hence, Mountain Tails's $415 dog bed. An extensive canine snack collection includes Fido Fish Jerky and its optimal chaser, Good Dog Breath Mints.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 5:30 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
51 Charles Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 557 9991
Moxie looks like no other shoe store you've ever seen. Its interior design evokes the inside of an airplane fuselage, with a long, purple-velvet bench down the center for trying on the kicks from Sigerson Morrison, Cynthia Vincent, Delman, Bernardo, Botkier, Claudia Ciuti, Cole Haan, Jack Rogers, Kooba, Lauren Merkin, Marc Jacobs, and others. Don't need shoes? The artsy, one-of-a-kind handbags are reason enough to drop in.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Fridays 10 am to 7 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays 11 am to 6 pm.
1121 West 36th Street
Baltimore , Maryland
Tel: 410 467 8698
Packed with unique home-decor items, this small Hampden shop may have you considering a radical room makeover. Items range from the sedate, such as the Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired light switch plates, to the certifiable: Hilda the Birdfeeder, a hand-painted ceramic feeder shaped like a woman with a beehive hairdo. And nothing says you care less than a "Jesus Hates It When You Smoke" ashtray.
Open Mondays through Thursdays 10 am to 6 pm, Fridays 10 am to 8 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays 10 am to 5 pm.
1831 14th Street N.W.
Washington, D.C.
Tel: 202 667 3440
The name of this furniture and fashion showroom comes from the Javanese word meaning "to come home to." In this case, the home in question would be an organic modern playground of avant–Southeast Asian design. Curling bamboo cocoon chairs and burl-wood consoles flirt with racks of designer duds from edgy international lines like Hache and By Malene Birger. Clothing, fashion accessories, and buttery leather handbags are elegantly showcased throughout the store, draped as colorful accents on the bold furniture pieces.Colleen Clark
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
2275 N. 7th Avenue
Bozeman , Montana
Tel: 406 586 8466
Chances are you won't need ferrier supplies or bailing wireor even know what they arebut you might avail yourself of Murdoch's huge selection of Carhartt work clothes. Just imagine those perfect coveralls for yard work back home.
62 Main Street
Nantucket , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 228 0437
When owner Philip Murray introduced brick-red sailcloth clothes for men in 1945, he started a fashion trend that's become iconic on and off the island. Today, they're known as Nantucket Reds, and Murray's not only still stocks themtrousers, shorts, skirts, the lotit holds the trademark on the term. This is HQ for the old-school prep set, with deck shoes, polo shirts, cable sweaters in umpteen colors, and madras, madras everywhere. Murray's is an only-on-Nantucket sea of whale belts and seersucker, and a Main Street institution. Open year-round, it's also a place where locals go to "have a gam" catch up on local gossip with the Murray descendants who still run the place.
Closed Sundays, January through April.
767 Kailua Road
Kailua , Hawaii
Tel: 808 263 3366
Where do vintage Hawaiian muumuus, those long dresses in brightly colored prints, go after they become frayed? An increasing number are being reincarnated as funky sundresses and beach bags at this Kailua boutique. Men aren't left out either—Muumuu Heaven customizes bamboo tees and vintage polo shirts with a strip of the colorful fabric. Old Hawaiian shirts also get a second life here as throw pillows, complete with buttons and pockets. Eco-minded shoppers will appreciate that everything for sale (except the imported bamboo tees) is sourced from the islands, and even the store's fixtures and shopping bags are recycled. Custom orders for a particular color palette, or using your own muumuu, are stitched up in about two weeks and available by mail order.
Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays 11 am to 4 pm.
329 Clematis Street
West Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 655 6644
This gloriously old-school travel store is well worth a detour from the Island into downtown West Palm Beach. The shop has been here since 1924, and the windows are filled with suitcases in every shape, size, and color. Don't be turned off by the somewhat weathered decorthere's a surprisingly chic collection of exotic leather pieces (ostrich, alligator, lizard) as well as vintage Louis Vuitton trunks that have made the north-to-south trip more than a few times.
309 Healdsburg Avenue
Healdsburg , California
Tel: 707 433 2166
Interior designer Myra Hoefer scours Paris flea markets, antique shops, and artists' studios, then showcases her best finds in this tiny showroom off Healdsburg's central plaza. The well-edited inventory changes often, but on any given visit you may discover hand-painted monogrammed silk pillows in multicolored hues, plaster of Paris chandeliers, Louis XIV reproduction furniture, or mounted butterflies.
Open daily 10 am to 6 pm.
Portland , Oregon
If you're looking to get away from the mainstream chains downtown, N.W. 23rd Avenue is the answer. Lined with upscale independent boutiques, this sweet little shopping street is much cozier than downtown and offers a more unpredictable assortment of wares. Start your stroll at the intersection with Lovejoy Street and head south toward Burnside Street. Along the way, you can succumb to the temptations at Compleat Bed & Breakfast, with its fine bed linens and sleepwear; ogle the shoes and chic women's apparel at Elizabeth Street and Zelda's Shoe Bar; and buy a present for the kids back home at Child's Play, a stocked-to-the-rafters toy store. Give yourselfand your credit carda well-deserved break at Papa Haydn, which specializes in sophisticated American fare and over-the-top desserts, or stop for tiramisu gelato at Mio Gelato.
11 First Way
Nantucket , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 228 2518
Handwoven baskets have been made on Nantucket since the turn of the century. Sturdy but still delicate looking, the wooden-handled totes are known as "lightship baskets," because they were first woven in the mid-1800s by bored sailors stationed on floating lighthouses offshore. The local artisans at this studio about a mile south of Nantucket Town carry on the tradition, making expensive one-of-a-kind pieces, many decorated with scrimshaw and ivory inlays that are also crafted here.
16 Federal Street
Nantucket , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 228 1908
Established in 1968 as a weaving collective, Nantucket Looms still produces unique, handloomed blankets and throws in its second-floor studio. The shop on the first floor has an array of these for sale, all made from natural fibers like cashmere and linen. Other island artists also sell their wares here, including paintings, jewelry, furniture, wildflower soap, and sophisticated knickknacks, most with a nautical theme. Jackie Onassis made it a point to drop in every time she visited the island in the 1970s (the store would obligingly close while she shopped.) If you overhear locals grumbling about Nantucket Looms's move from its former prime spot on Main Street, it's because the shop was displaced by a certain fashion designer (initials R.L.) peddling high-end preppy styles.
Open Mondays through Saturdays.
835 Charter Oak Avenue
St. Helena , California
Tel: 707 963 4173
Skip the overpriced gourmet food shops along Highway 29 in favor of this run-down old market, a purveyor of locally produced olive oils and some of the world's best imported balsamic vinegars, Italian salamis, and cheeses. A throwback to the days before import shops became fashionable and overpriced, this dusty little hole-in-the wall is the real deal—rumor has it that the shop inspired the now-famous Oakville Grocery chain. Assemble a picnic lunch of cured meats, olives, bread, and cheese, then snag one of the rickety picnic tables outside in the shade of wisteria vines.
Open daily 8 am to 5:30 pm.
Ward Warehouse
1050 Ala Moana Blvd.
Honolulu , Hawaii
Tel: 800 887 7751
The official store for Na Mea Hawaii, an organization dedicated to sharing Hawaiian culture, language, and traditions. The stock here ranges from academic books about language, history, music, hula, massage, meditation, even navigating by the stars, to fun titles on lighter subjects like how to throw a luau, how to make tropical cocktails, and how to speak pidgin English. There's a good selection of children's books, too, illustrating basic Hawaiian valuestaking care of the land, respecting nature, and the ocean, thinking about the consequences of your actions, and so on.
210 Ledoux Street
Taos , New Mexico
Tel: 505 758 3250
Lawyers have been clashing over famed Navajo painter R.C. Gorman's estate since his death in 2005, but this gallery of his images of Native American women in repose is the picture of tranquility. Here since 1968, the space sells original paintings as well as numbered oil pastels, lithographs, sculptures, drawings, and bronzes. A small 1981 bronze titled Laughing Sisters, one in a series of 14, costs $38,000, but you can also snatch up a Gorman poster for a mere $50.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 5 pm.
1618 Main St.
Dallas , Texas
Tel: 214 741 6911
Dallas's reputation as a city that shops with near-religious fervor began with this flagship emporium in 1914. The luxury "specialty store" was born in this seven-story Beaux Artsstyle building, which has stood for generations as a shrine to couture quality and impeccable customer service. Today the cheeky, minimalist window displays proclaim NM's unflagging fashion-forward attitude. But inside there's a reassuring timelessness, as if you are entering a fashion cathedral, with cloisterlike vaults and stunning 1950s "artichoke" chandeliers hovering over the first-floor handbags and jewelry. That soothingly retro, mid-century-modern ambience pervades the succeeding floors, where you find the swank menswear displays, the couture salonsMichael Kors, Giorgio Armani, Chanel, St. John'sresembling little chapels, and the Steuben glass and Waterford crystal presented like museum pieces. The experience is capped off by the top-floor Zodiac Room restaurant, a pale chartreuse and white-linen aerie where Dallas's most elegant lunches have for decades begun with the complimentary demitasse of chicken broth and a popover served with strawberry butter.
Open Mondays through Wednesdays 10 am to 6 pm, Thursdays 10 am to 8 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm.
The shopping street to end all shopping streets, Newbury's eight-block span (approximately one mile) is home to some 73 clothing boutiques, 40 art galleries, 30 day spas, and 30 restaurants. Some names are familiar, from Valentino and Cartier to H&M and American Eagle, though others are native to Beantown. Tess & Carlos (no. 141A; 617-262-8377; www.tessandcarlos.com), Dress (no. 221; 617-424-7125; www.dressboston.com), and Matsu (no. 259; 617-266-9707; www.matsuboston.com) all carry big-ticket items by high-profile designers; and Trident Booksellers & Cafe is a nice antidote to the big-box sellers (no. 338; 617-267-8688; www.tridentbookscafe.com).
8323 W. Third Street
West Hollywood , California
Tel: 323 651 1782
This small, austere-looking boutique (on an excellent shopping block) has a great collection of innovative clothing for both sexes. Some of the designers featured are Yohji Yamamoto, Martin Margiela, and Commes des Garçons. There are also shoes and bags.
8687 North Central Expressway
At Northwest Highway
Dallas , Texas
Tel: 214 361 6345
Fax: 214 363 5267
The evolution of mall culture continues with this landmark, which brought the indoor mall to a new level of luxurious good taste when it was built in the mid-1960s. Developer and noted art collector Raymond Nasher (of the Nasher Sculpture Center) insisted on subtle architecture and signs, natural light, and lots of landscaping indoors and outas well as displaying scores of modern art masterpieces from his own sculpture collection. Classand Nasher's artstill shows four decades later; absent a soaring atrium or a skating rink, NorthPark continues to be the most elegant and popular mall in a city that leads the nation in malls per capita. There's something for every taste, from Brooks Brothers to Victoria's Secret, along with spas, salons, and sporting goods. But in the main this is prime fashionista turf: Anchor tenant Neiman Marcus is flanked by a panoply of shops including Burberry, Kate Spade, Stuart Weitzman, Billy Reid, Giorgio Armani, MaxMara, Tiffany & Co., Arden B., and DeBeers.
Open Sundays noon to 6 pm, Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 9 pm.
2204 N.E. Alberta Street
Portland , Oregon
Tel: 503 282 7200
Work's a drag, no question. But once you walk into Office you might just change your mind. The forward-thinking folks at this shop can help you inject some flair into your work spaces. Ever thought a trash bin could reflect your personal style? Ever wish for a laptop case that wouldn't look so businesslike at happy hour? You've come to the right place. The eclectic mix of retro and contemporary accessories reflects Portland's prioritiesyou'll find green (the philosophy, not the color) paper goods from Russell + Hazel, locally made products like Acme Made's hip laptop bags, quirky letterpress stationery, handsome European notebooksand even vintage typewriters.
Open Tuesdays through Fridays 11 am to 6 pm, Saturdays 11 am to 5 pm, and Sundays 11 am to 4 pm.
35 Howard Street
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 219 2688
This Soho boutiquewhose proudly '80s font hints at the decade most revered within displays work by a different country's designers each year, plus a smattering of Americans for good measure. Back in 2006, the favored nation was England, with a mini Topshop installed on the second floor (complete with the trendiest offerings, including the store's famous super-skinny jeans). In 2007, the focus switched to Swedish designers. Recently, the store commissioned Chloë Sevigny, the It girl of downtown style, to design a capsule range: Standout items included a floral dress with built-in bustier and a high-waist pencil skirt. Regardless of the country, the mix here is avant-garde and never boring (if occasionally verging on the unwearable). Less daring shoppers should stick to the prettier offerings, like fun cocktail dresses from Vena Cava.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 8 pm, Sundays noon to 7 pm.
968 Second Avenue North
Naples , Florida
Tel: 239 434 7115
When the local ladies-who-lunch tire of their designer threads, they often drop them off at this nonprofit consignment store that benefits a local shelter for abused women and children. So while you're paying cut-rate prices for their Armani, Escada, and Gucci castoffs, you can feel good about your spending spree, knowing you're helping a worthy cause.
Closed Sundays.
613 N. State Street
Chicago , Illinois
Tel: 312 280 1602
This antique shop may be just a few blocks removed from the extravagantly modern chain stores that dominate Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile, but its overflowing tables of housewares, well-worn hardwood floors, and old-time charm are straight out of a bygone era. The term P.O.S.H. was once a popular acronym for "port out, starboard home," the preferred way for Brits to travel by ocean liner to their colonies in India and Southeast Asia (being on the north side of the ship helped them avoid sunburn). Over time, it evolved into British slang for all things luxurious—and that's what you'll find here. The store is brimming with vintage (and often unused) restaurant china, creamers from 1920's diners, and all sorts of other reasonably priced Old World flea market finds. Owner Karl Sorenson makes several reconnaissance trips to Europe every year to stock the store, so there are always new treasures to choose from.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, Sundays 11 am to 5 pm.
Even the handmade Venetian masks on the walls won't distract your attention from these exquisite shoes. Made in Italy and designed by owner Paolo Iantorno, the collection includes superb women's boots, each pair with its own personality, as well as heels, flats, sandals, and handsome men's boots and loafers. Shoes tend to range between $150 and $400—a bargain for footwear that is at once so comfortable and stylish.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays 11 am to 6 pm.
213 W. Colorado Avenue
Telluride , Colorado
Tel: 970 728 4525
Altruists like Telluride's longest-running sports store for its ongoing sponsorship of local bike racers and grassroots ski competitions. Others come just for employee Herb Manning (who works at the store's Oak Street Branch), a frequently photographed ski model who's renowned as the town's best technician for mounting bindings. Paragon also carries gear ranging from cold-weather North Face apparel and K2 skis to Smith goggles.
Open daily 8 am to 8 pm.
520 E Durant Avenue
Aspen , Colorado
Tel: 970 544 0137
Très fabulous Parisian furniture, lamps, and accessories for the home are waiting to be added to your interior design collection—for a pretty penny. But hey, this is Aspen.—by Samantha Berman
824 Valencia Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 824 1872
Macabre oddities and unusual garden items inspired by the natural sciences fill this gallerylike space at Paxton Gate. The front of the shop has weathered-oak shelves displaying the skulls of rodents and small animals, cases of brilliantly colored butterflies pinned under glass, and giant vintage trophy heads of bison and deer (fear not: none of them are endangered or poached). The squeamish can distract themselves with unusual jewelry and small-batch soaps made with heady botanicals, before heading to the rear of the shop, which explores plant life. Here you can discover orchids and succulents, an array of unusual plant books and garden tools, and an open-air backyard that showcases Paxton Gate's custom outdoor architecture.—John A. Vlahides
Open daily 11 am to 7 pm.
331 Worth Avenue
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 514 0923
The cream-colored, semicircular awnings and lavender storefront give it away: Daven is a touch of Cannes in PB. Inside, there's everything from fine jewelry and shawls to ballet flats and fantastic handbags designed for the Daven label. Owner Régine and daughter Peggy are brimming with joie de vivreand fashion tips. Shoppers who can't make up their mind can sit down and enjoy a perfectly brewed espresso, served in a dainty Limoges cup and saucer with a chocolate truffle.
Closed Sundays.
3827 30th Street
San Diego , California
Tel: 619 501 6318
Graduates of Urban Outfitter's cheap homewares flock to Pigment to acquire the grown-up versions of hipster decor. Dozens of terrarium orbs float from the ceiling of this North Park gem that sells one-of-a-kind pieces—from art and books, to fishbowls and compostable tableware—inspired by nature. This place is known for its amazing terrarium selection, and there are also kits and workshops for terrarium building.—Audrey Davidow
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays 11 am to 5 pm.
45 W. Thomas Place
Beaver Creek Village
Beaver Creek , Colorado
Tel: 970 949 0908
Hand-blown glass is the specialty at this satellite gallery of the Denver Pismo. Here, you'll find everything from perfume bottles, whimsical sculptures, and intricate wall art to pieces by renowned glass artists like Dale Chihuly. A third location can be found in Vail (122 E. Meadow Drive, Tel: 970 476 2400).
520 East Cooper Avenue
Aspen , Colorado
Tel: 970 925 1681
Don't be fooled by the name. This unique shop, which opened in 1969, doesn't peddle sundries. Instead, its selection of men's and women's leathers, clothing, and accessories is hard to beat.—by Samantha Berman
Planet Blue
Located in Malibu's quaint Country Mart, Planet Blue is considered a must stop for well-to-do beach bunnies and just about all of young Hollywood. From yacht-friendly flip-flops and casual designer threads (Ella Moss, Diane von Furstenberg, and Velvet) to the latest denim brands, this place is a trusted purveyor of laidback luxury. Don't miss the beauty emporium next door, where shelves are stocked with every high-end line imaginable—from Mario Badescu skincare to Cor's famous silver soaps—plus a few cool boutique brands you can't find anywhere else. For those who don't feel like trekking all the way out to the flagship in Malibu, there are now Blue outposts in Santa Monica, Venice, and Beverly Hills.
5430 Magazine Street
New Orleans , Louisiana
Tel: 504 897 3388
The city's initial recovery phase has been good to the Uptown stretch of Magazine Street, a former workaday commercial strip turned boutique row. This relative newcomer showcases a selection of funky housewares, messenger bags, jewelry, and work by local artists. Hand-painted "Saints for Sinners" charms provide colorful protection and support from an updated selection of Catholic saints. (Who knew that St. Isidore was the patron saint of Web surfers?) Facsimiles of New Orleans's familiar water-meter covers—an artsy moon-and-stars pattern—make a subtle statement as diminutive earrings.
Open Mondays through Thursdays 10 am to 6 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm.
18 Old South Wharf
Nantucket , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 414 1330
Worn by the likes of Halle Berry, Eva Longoria, Jessica Alba, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Paris Hilton, the playful jewelry made by Nantucketer Jessica Hicks is distinctive for the tiny holes she drills in metal shapes, from stars to hearts to teardrops. Hicks, who started by selling her work at Vis-a-Vis boutique on Main Street (where it's also still available), now has her own small shop on Old South Wharf so that not only insiders, but everybody else, can get some.
Open late May through September.
1005 W. Burnside Street
Portland , Oregon
Tel: 503 228 4651
Yes, it's the country's largest independent bookstore with more than a million volumes in stock, but it's also much more than that. Like disciples come to pay homage at a shrine, its vast and fanatical following can be seen browsing the innumerable shelves day and night (they're open until 11 pm, making this a popular spot even after dinner). Those with obscure interests are likely to find not only a few titles on the subject, but perhaps an entire shelf among the million books on offer. And with its unique approach of stocking used books right alongside new ones, thrifty readers will feel no guilt about stocking up on dozens of reads. Beware that it can be a bit like the Bermuda Trianglehours upon hours can be lost within its doors. If you need a break, refuel at the on-site café. And if you need guidance, head for one of the information desks, where knowledgeable staff can supply you with a color-coded map and help you track down just about anything.
Open daily 9 am to 11 pm.
575 Broadway
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 334 8888
Part of Miuccia Prada's undisputed genius is her ability to fuse fashion with art, and that talent is on impressive display at the New York flagship in Soho. Conceived by Dutch starchitect Rem Koolhaas, this former downtown branch of the Guggenheim Museum features a dramatic staircase (populated by headless mannequins) that faces a giant wooden halfpipe, subterranean display rooms that feel like the costume department of a theater, and enormous wall murals running the length of the 23,000-square-foot space. While the main level feels more like a deserted showroom than a retail environment, downstairs houses a warren of small rooms displaying the latest collections, handbags, and shoes. It's all a bit of a trip, and one you'll be talking about long after you get your purchases home.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 7 pm.
2225 30th Street
San Diego , California
Tel: 619 280 5501
If you're looking for gifts with a conscience—from eco-coasters made from fallen branches to scarves knitted from recycled cashmere sweaters—drop by this artsy South Park neighborhood outpost for green design fiends. The store also does a brisk trade in earth-friendly furniture.—Audrey Davidow
Open Mondays through Thursdays 10 am to 7 pm, Fridays through Saturdays 10 am to 8 pm, and Sundays noon to 5 pm.
43 Hana Highway
Paia , Hawaii
Tel: 808 579 3080
Housed in a historic plantation right as you drive into Paia Town, Puka Puka is a white-walled boutique, art gallery, and gathering place for locals looking to "talk story." Rare and vintage surfing and Polynesian-themed books, Maui-made T-shirts (the uniform in Hawaii), limited-edition high-top sneakers made with African batik fabric, and clothing from Maison Martin Margiela and Hussein Chalayan create what could be best described as Maui's answer to Paris's Colette. The upstairs is a more formal gallery with amazing ocean views and biannual Hawaii-centric exhibitions, such as retrospectives on artists from Maui's Rainbow Bridge movement in the '60s and '70s.—Cathay Che
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 6 pm.
541 Octavia Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 621 7718
In a town as quirky as San Francisco, you have to work pretty hard to stand out… but R.A.G. can help you get there. The garments here (for both men and women, locally designed and arranged in a gallerylike space) are either one-of-a-kind or made in small batches, so you'll be able to find pieces that no one else has. The clothes are distinctive without being too wacky; their originality lies in funky details like frilled seams, an asymmetric cut, or a whimsical tennis-player pattern on a dress.
Open Mondays and Wednesdays through Fridays noon to 7 pm, Saturdays 11 am to 6 pm, and Sundays noon to 6 pm.
100 Christopher Street
West Village
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 727 2999
Along with being two of the nicest people in fashion (not to mention rather, ahem, easy on the eyes), British transplants David Neville and Marcus Wainwright create designs that suggest the wardrobe of an off-duty model, an influence no doubt gleaned from the coterie of actual models and early adopters in the pair's orbit. Inspired variously by classic English tailoring, traditional American workwear, and military motifs, Rag & Bone hits that perfect, ever-so-slightly androgynous urban-warrior note every season with their jeans, T-shirts, and Henleys. The men's flagship is on a once-gritty stretch of Christopher Street in the West Village (the women's shop is a couple of doors down at number 104). The pair has also opened Soho and Upper West Side branches.—Emma Sloley
Open daily noon to 7 pm.
Santa Fe's most up-and-coming neighborhood has a distinctly contemporary bent. Anchored by nonprofit SITE Santa Fe, which took over an old brewery building in 1995, the formerly desolate area by the tracks now hosts a number of funky galleries and a handful of bars and restaurants. Right across from the SITE building is The Box, a bright, high-ceiling space that shows contemporary New Mexican artists, including Valerie Nielsen, who paints abstracts of bursting colors using acrylic on wood. Nearby is the Tai Gallery/Textile Arts, which specializes in bamboo artists from Japan. The sensuous forms of all sizes look nothing like traditional baskets. The latest addition is an outpost of Gebert Contemporary, whose main space is on Canyon Road. The new gallery is a massive rectangle that shows off Japanese artist Jun Kaneko's huge ceramic human heads to great effect. The best pit stop is the patio at the Railyard Restaurant & Saloon, where the oyster po'boys, pecan-crusted trout, and other classic American dishes are surprisingly good (530 S. Guadalupe St.; 505-989-3300; www.railyardrestaurantandsaloon.com).
1745 Folsom Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 863 0620
With endless varieties of miso, tofu, and seaweed, baked goods that accommodate every allergy known to medical science, and luminous fruits and vegetables, Rainbow is the most extensive emporium of organic vegetarian food you'll ever hope to find. It also carries great natural beauty products and an encyclopedic range of vitamins, medicinal herbs, and detoxifying teas. Stock up on supplements, buy a vegan gift, or simply assemble a delicious and virtuous picnic.
Open daily 9 am to 9 pm.
1734 14th Street N.W.
Washington, D.C.
Tel: 202 332 7447
D.C.'s edgier fashionistas shop the well-curated denim, tissue-thin tees, and statement jewelry at this 14th Street boutique. Former DJ Lori Parkerson stocks her store with men's and women's clothing that's a mix of androgynous tailoring and grunge-chic streetwear. In addition to selling superb labels from New York City to Korea (Corpus, Surface to Air), the store is also great at incubating local talent. So ditch the White House statues and Obama tees and get a true D.C. souvenir in the form of an outsize knit cowl from De*Nada or hand-poured Sea Salt & Bay Rum candles by Sydney Hale Co.Colleen Clark
Open Wednesdays through Saturdays noon to 8 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
222 Yale Avenue North
Seattle , Washington
Tel: 206 470 4020
REI's enormous flagship is an outdoor enthusiast's dream come true. You can try out the shop's astounding array of gear at various testing stations, such as the mountain-bike trail and the 65-foot climbing wall. There's also a wide range of equipment available for rent, from sleeping bags to snowshoes. If you're looking for a biking or hiking buddy while you're in town, check out the community bulletin boards by the front entrance and in the second-floor café.
3312 Cady's Alley N.W.
Washington, D.C.
Tel: 202 333 5343
Tucked in a cobblestone alley in Georgetown, this two-story clothing boutique operates like a carefully curated gallery. The white walls, polished cement floors, and bamboo shelving match the edgy modern style of the clothes. Expect impeccably tailored directional pieces by fashion trailblazers like Dries Van Noten, Martin Margiela, and Yohji Yamamoto. If you need to refuel, just pass through the French doors to the sunny courtyard that the shop shares with Kafe Leopold, (try the hazelnut mousse and praline meringue).Colleen Clark
42 Randall Street
Annapolis , Maryland
Tel: 410 263 4982
Even if sailboat ownership is out of your price range, you can still afford to have a piece of the yacht. This shop near Annapolis's City Dock sells duffel bags stitched from sturdy recycled sail cloth, as well as totes, laptop bags, and even jackets and vests. All of the one-of-a-kind outerwear and bags, which are made in a Newport, R.I., sail loft, use waterproof fabrics such as Dacron coated with a UV sunscreen to prevent fading and also come with a lifetime guarantee on materials and workmanship.
Open daily 10 am to 10 pm.
224 Worth Avenue
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 655 0774
An estate jewelry house since 1893, Richters is the place for exquisite vintage gems. Stefan Richter, whose family has been in the rare jewelry business for four generations, is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about his collection and loves to show interested clients his latest treasures.
Closed Sundays.
1001 Rose Bowl Drive
Pasadena , California
Tel: 323 560 7469
On the second Sunday of each month, this market, with more than 2,000 exhibitors, draws antique- and collectible-hunters from all over the state—there's everything here from Art Deco furniture to Partridge Family lunchboxes. The market opens officially to the public at 9 am, but dealers pay extra to go as early as 6 am, and so can you.
French Quarter
New Orleans , Louisiana
Art lovers could kill a weekend browsing the upper part of the French Quarter, where art galleries outnumber gaudy T-shirt shops. Whatever your taste, you'll find an artist's rep to match your art-buying mood. Local icon George Rodrigue maintains a Royal Street address at his eponymous studio stocked with more Blue Dogs (the artist's signature motif) than a Memphis kennel (721 Royal St.; 504-581-4244; www.georgerodrigue.com). Traditional streetscapes and poster prints abound, but for something a bit more surreal, visit the gallery space of "fine art body painter" Craig Tracey, who makes the nude human form his canvas for a wide array of painted treatments (827 Royal St.; 504-592-9886; www.paintedalive.com).
7254 Main Street
Scottsdale , Arizona
Tel: 480 949 7404
For Southwestern/western-style fashions, Saba's, in the heart of Old Town, is a boot and belt institution.
Open Mondays through Fridays 10 am to 7 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays 12 to 5 pm.
187 Atlantic Avenue
Brooklyn Heights
Brooklyn , New York
Tel: 718 624 4550
Subway: N, R, W, 2, 3, 4, 5 trains to Borough Hall
This Middle Eastern supermarket is one of the few remnants of the ethnic enclave that once thrived on the Atlantic Avenue corridor. Homesick Arabs from around the state come to visit for staples such as Al Wadi preserves and hummus dips, but it's just as popular with foodies down from Brooklyn Heights wanting a bit of a respite from Whole Foods. Half the fun is imagining up a good use for, say, mahleb (a spice made from the inside of cherry pits used to flavor Syrian string cheese). The store doubles as a wholesaler and distributor, so prices are kept lower that one might expect for such exotic imports. Indeed many of its samplings are stored in bulk: vats of olives, buckets of grape leaves, and bins of bulgur line the walls. You don't need to be on an obscure stockpiling mission, however, as there's a deli in back with prepared food including feta-cheese salad, hummus, and baba ghanoush.
Open Monday through Saturday 9 am to 7 pm.
1138 1/2 Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Los Angeles , California
Tel: 310 452 1154
This superminimalist boutique, named for the essential element, has a carefully chosen selection of women's clothing from cutting-edge European designers. There are drapey cottons by Hache, tailored separates from Sofie d'Hoore, and elaborately designed skirts and blouses from Ainos.
11826 Harry Hines Blvd.
Dallas , Texas
Tel: 972 484 3084
Fax: 972 243 3106
This discount accessories store, now the centerpiece of a north Dallas mini-mall of price-slashing retailers, has to be seen to be believed. In one enormous warehouse-size room, at almost any given hour of the day, hordes of women, from gimlet-eyed urban fashionistas to desperate suburban housewives, can be found picking through huge bins piled high with handbags or perusing case after case of earrings, necklaces, watches, and bracelets. Much of it looks and feels like designer merchandise, but the gasps here are reverse sticker shock: This is an alternative universe of $14 beaded evening clutches and $25 designer totes (not to mention two display cases full of $15 rhinestone tiaras). They're not counterfeitsthere are no labelsbut instead are entirely legal, looking enough like the real thing to pass inspection in the best places. The eponymous Mr. Moon, a wholesaler, keeps prices shockingly low by selling directly to the public. Come prepared for a hectic shopping experience.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 6:30 pm.
8117 W. Third Street
West Hollywood , California
Tel: 323 655 2142
This shop began life as a shoe store, and it still stocks high-end women's footwear (including a line by the owners, Jeannie Lee and Sophia Banks). But the collection of funky rooms is now crammed with racks of women's clothing and accessories, too—and they've become a favorite hunting ground for celebs like Kirsten Dunst. The merch changes all the time, but might include sailor dresses by Catherine Holstein, lace and jersey cocktail dresses by Vanessa Bruno, and Earnest Sewn cigarette jeans.
12801 W. Sunrise Boulevard
Sunrise , Florida
Tel: 954 846 2300
Eleven miles west of Fort Lauderdale's waterfront is the discount retail palace of Sawgrass Mills; reach it from the city via Interstates 75 or 595 by taking the Sawgrass Expressway exchange. Unlike many discount or outlet malls, it isn't filled with B-list brands or stores selling specially-made low-priced seconds. Instead, come here for an astonishing range of off-price products, whether clothes (J. Crew, Hugo Boss), underwear (Jockey), shoes (Adidas, Athlete's Foot), cosmetics (The Body Shop), or even electronics (Brandsmart USA). The pick of the bunch, though, are the two designer-crammed department-store offsprings, Saks Off 5th and Neiman Marcus Last Call; don't miss Sanrio's budget Hello Kitty shop either. Plus, a newer open-air promenade of shops next door, called Colonnade, has more high-end outlets like Barney's New York, Burberry, and Cole Haan. Sawgrass is also home to the superb kids' attraction Wannadoo City, which is like a career-themed DisneyWorld, where pre-teens can try out jobs like pilot, nurse, and TV anchor in the indoor miniature town.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 9:30 pm, Sundays 11 am to 8 pm.
121 W. Main Street
Bozeman , Montana
Tel: 406 587 0981
Home of the legendary Pac Boot—a rubber-bottomed, leather knee-high style that's a favorite among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts across the States—Schnee's in Bozeman is a treasure trove for anyone who puts the hurt on a pair of boots. The selection of high-tech hiking boots and shoes is excellent, but the real draw is the collection of Pac Boots, Red Wings, and hard-to-find White's handmade boots—gorgeous leather lace-ups that feel like butter and kick like iron. Don't forget to pick up a punch card: Buy 12 pairs, get 1 free.
7920 W. Third Street
West Hollywood , California
Tel: 323 658 8684
There's a small collection of menswear at this sleek modern store, but the primary focus is on women's clothing (both new and carefully chosen vintage) and an accompanying selection of shoes, jewelry, and handbags. Co-owners Greg Armas and Joey Grana are almost always on site, and are known for providing head-to-toe styling for celebs; they've dressed Mischa Barton and the Olsen twins for special events. For us regular humans, they also carry jeans from Acne and casual wear from Jeremy Scott, Society for Rational Dress, and Grana's own private label, Scout Collection.
224 Galisteo Street
Santa Fe , New Mexico
Tel: 505 988 9151
Walk into this large but discreet building on Galisteo Street, not far from the Plaza, and prepare to be overwhelmed by a vast, labyrinthine souk of colorful rugs, marble tables, and thousands of antique doors. In business for more than 30 years, the Serets import furnishings, rugs, and architectural elements like cornices and moldings from Tibet, India, Afghanistan, Spain, Peru, and Southeast Asia. You'll find chests and doors from as early as the 14th century, but a large part of the business is also new furnishings and wares patterned on old designs and made to look antique. To see it in a real-life setting, take a gander at The Inn of the Five Graces, a hotel the Serets founded and decorated. The store takes custom orders and ships around the country.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 5:30 pm and Sundays 9:30 am to 5 pm.
764 Montauk Highway
Montauk , New York
Tel: 631 668 2205
Former Calypso designer Joelle Klein has catered to denizens of the new Montauk with her sustainability-oriented beach shop since 2008. Sourced from all over the world, her offerings include Lostmarc'h fragrances and distressed sailor-stripe tops from Klein's native France, traditional Tunisian hammam towels, and espadrilles from Spain. Many items, such as recycled-paper ballerina flats and T-shirts made from old petticoats, come with fascinating backstories and are the sort of things you want to wear right out of the shop. Klein also sells coffee-table books on everything from architecture to surfing, and devotes the adjacent space to a different emerging label each summer.—Darrell Hartman
Open Sundays through Fridays 10 am to 6 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm,May through early September; Thursdays through Mondays 10 am to 6 pm, early September through April.
1647 Wisconsin Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C.
Tel: 202 333 4212
Georgetown has always been ground zero for the popped-collar crowd, many of whom outfit themselves at this stately town-house storefront. Ladies go for the candy-colored Lilly Pulitzer frocks, grosgrain ribbon belts, and Tory Burch flats. Men get their gingham on with Jack Robie button-downs to pair with cozy cashmere cable-knit sweaters and madras shorts. Even furry friends can get prepped out, thanks to a selection of designer leashes embroidered with horses, whales, or lobsters (all Martha's Vineyard–approved).Colleen Clark
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
1450 Ala Moana Blvd.
Honolulu , Hawaii
Tel: 808 973 9111
Popping into this Japanese department store is like taking a quick trip to Tokyo. You'll find Japanese electronics, clothing, toys (including a good selection of Hello Kitty items), kitchen gadgets, housewares, and—best of all—snacks. While the first floor is a calm, ordered world, upstairs resembles an open market, with vendors shouting out what they have for sale as you pass by. Delicious Japanese treats (such as mochi, musubi, soba, and green-tea ice cream) are available either for takeout or, if you can find a place to sit, to eat at the tables in the atrium.
603 E. Las Olas Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale , Florida
Tel: 954 467 0900
This downtown unisex boutique holds a smartly edited collection of the current must-try labels: there's a massive stock of Juicy Couture for women (denim, velour, etc.) as well as jeans from J Brand, Citizens of Humanity, True Religion, and Chip & Pepper; dressier options include Angeleno designer James Perse, Sky, Michael Stars, and Brit favorite Ben Sherman.
Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino
3325 Las Vegas Boulevard S.
Las Vegas , Nevada
Tel: 702 414 4525
With high-fashion labels like Diane von Furstenberg and Christian Louboutin, the Palazzo's collection of shops doesn't seem to offer much of a departure from those at the Wynn or Bellagio. But underneath the luxe sheen there's some character. At Double Helix, you can sip a glass of Duckhorn Merlot while owner Raymond Nisi, a former eye surgeon, gives helpful tasting notes on his not-so-common wines-by-the-glass. Vegas's master sommeliers have even been known to unwind here and pull a bottle or two from the adjoining retail shop. And don't miss a stop by Bauman's Rare Books, where friendly shopkeepers with MFAs in British history and creative writing display auction-quality vintage books, such as signed copies of Ken Kesey first editions and Frank Lloyd Wright sketches. The crowd favorite at the Palazzo is Barneys New Yorkthe only place in Vegas where you can snatch up Frédéric Malle fragrances and Thom Browne suits. A tip: Use Barneys's exclusive valet tucked in a corner next to the Palazzo's main entrance on the Stripit allows access to Barneys, the Palazzo Shoppes, and even the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian next door.
Open Sundays through Thursdays 10 am to 11 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 10 am to midnight.
At the Sydenstricker Glass Gallery showroom, artists create vivid, kiln-fired glassware using an early Egyptian process rediscovered by an MIT researcher. The traditions at the nearby Brewster Store aren't as ancient, but it is a quintessential New England general store (complete with genuine old codgers on the porch) and sells everything from penny candy to staples for your rental cottage.
Sydenstricker Glass Gallery open daily 9 am to 5 pm.
Brewster Store open daily 6 am to 10 pm, mid-June through Labor Day; 6 am to 6 pm, Labor Day through mid-November; 6 am to 5 pm, mid-November through Christmas; 6:30 am to 5 pm, Christmas through April; 6 am to 6 pm, April through mid-June.
Chatham's Main Street exemplifies the archetypal Cape Cod village, with picturesque storefronts housing some fun, hip, and creative shops. Although the intimate Trading Company looks like it's been around forever (with dark barn-board paneling, pressed-tin lamp shades, antiques, and Oriental rugs), this family-owned enterprise opened in 1976 and sells up-to-date women's clothing and accessories. Expect elegant pieces from fashion houses like Armani and Agnona, and attentive service—likely from one of the owners. Appropriate to the seafaring tradition of Cape Cod, Kahn Fine Antiques specializes in nautical antiques from the 17th through 19th centuries. Filled with clocks, barometers, campaign chests, ship wheels and bells, candlestick holders, whaling harpoons, swords, pistols, Chinese porcelain, whale teeth, bone-handled knives with the Royal Navy insignia, portraits, paintings, engravings, ambrotypes, maps, and prints, it's as much a museum as an antique store, but everything is for sale. Notable for its large collection of backlist titles, Yellow Umbrella Books sells an enormous selection of new and used best sellers and rare or out-of-print books, plus jazz, folk, New Age, and classical CDs. Everything here was handpicked by the owner, a poet who previously worked in the publishing industry.
The Trading Company open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm, March through December; Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm, January and February.
Kahn Fine Antiques open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm, Memorial Day through Columbus Day; Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 4 pm, Columbus Day through Memorial Day (call ahead in winter months).
Yellow Umbrella Books open daily 9 am to 10 pm, mid-June through Labor Day; Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 5:30 pm, Sundays 10 am to 5:30 pm, Labor Day through mid-June.
Opened in 1952 by the prominent potter and sculptor Harry Holl, Scargo Stoneware Pottery sells work by Holl, his daughters, a son-in-law, and other artists who have apprenticed here. Best categorized as contemporary American folk art, the work displayed at this tranquil outdoor gallery, sculpture garden, and studio includes decorative ceramics, sculpture, tableware, pottery, wind chimes, prints, and jewelry, much of it in deep, rich colors. Just down the road is a jewelry studio-showroom, Ross Coppelman, Goldsmith. Inspired by Cape Cod's seascape, Coppelman crafts suns, waves, birds, and starfish out of gold, platinum, and silver.
Scargo Stoneware Pottery open daily 10 am to 6 pm, May through September; daily 10 am to 5 pm, October through April.
Ross Coppelman, Goldsmith, open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm, May through December; Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm, January through April.
Don't be put off by the name Bird Watcher's General Store: Even if you have no interest in bird-watching, you may lose track of time exploring the endless selection of binoculars, telescopes, books, and avian paraphernalia. A big part of the experience is trying your luck at the customer joke-telling contest and making a stop in the famous bathroom, which is wallpapered in cartoons, photographs, and bumper stickers. More serious but no less interesting, Tree's Place is an art gallery housed in an early-19th-century sea captain's mansion. It specializes in American realism, Impressionism, and postmodernism, by both established and emerging artists.
Bird Watcher's General Store open daily 9 am to 9 pm, July and August; Mondays through Saturdays 9:15 am to 5:15 pm, Sundays 10:15 am to 5 pm, September through June.
Tree's Place open Mondays through Fridays 10 am to 5:30 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, and Sundays noon to 5 pm, Memorial Day through Labor Day; Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm, Labor Day through Memorial Day.
Provincetown's Commercial Street is a crowded bazaar of art galleries, antique shops, souvenir stores, bars, ice-cream counters, and restaurants. Retro antique and reproduction collectibles overflow from Remembrances of Things Past, a tiny basement shop whose name takes its cue from Marcel Proust's epic exploration of memory. The specialty here is objects from the 20th century, particularly Bakelite; Art Deco items; jewelry; prints and posters; and celebrity, sports, film, advertising, and TV memorabilia. Down the street, contemporary paintings, prints, and photography by Chinese artists are the focus of the Zen-inspired Tao Water Art Gallery II. Near the wharf, you'll find BodyBody, a stylish men's store that stocks duds from high-end designers such as Versace, Ted Baker, and Christian Lacroix. It has P-town's largest swimwear selection and a unique assortment of neckties for your inevitable return to civilization. South of the Pilgrim Monument, Marine Specialties is more than an Army–Navy surplus store: It's a mother lode of anything and everything that comes under the heading of surplus, salvage, irregular, or closeout. This includes—but is not limited to—brand-new name-brand clothing, art supplies, concert posters, airline china, swords, flatware, wooden buoys, camping gear, and brass weather vanes. Nearby, Wa is a serene shop that sells scented products (incense, soaps, candles), decorative objects, and housewares from Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. Many visitors miss the tiny back garden filled with sculptures and wind chimes.
Remembrances of Things Past open daily 11 am to 5 pm, mid-May through mid-September.
Tao Water Art Gallery II open Thursdays through Mondays 11 am to 5 pm, June; Thursdays through Mondays 11 am to 10 pm, July through September; and Saturdays and Sundays 11 am to 4 pm, or by appointment, October through May.
Wa open daily 10 am to 11 pm, mid-June through October; daily 10 am to 7 pm, October through early December; Saturdays and Sundays 11 am to 5 pm, early December through March; daily 10 am to 7 pm, April through mid-June.
Marine Specialties open daily 10 am to 10 pm, mid-June through June 30; daily 10 am to 1 am, July through Labor Day; Sundays through Fridays 10 am to 10 pm, Saturdays 10 am to midnight, Labor Day through Columbus Day; daily 11 am to 5 pm, Columbus Day through December; Saturdays and Sundays 11 am to 5 pm, January through mid-March; Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm, Sundays 11 am to 5 pm, mid-March through mid-May; Sundays through Fridays 10 am to 6 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 10 pm, mid-May through mid-June.
There are several large antiques consignment shops on Cape Cod, but the best is the Sandwich Antiques Center. Rooms and rooms are filled with meticulously displayed merchandise, including furniture, military medals, and a wide selection of glass and porcelain. For a local souvenir, pick up some Sandwich glass (for much of the 19th century, this town was synonymous with American glass).
Open daily 10 am to 5 pm.
Built as an apothecary by Thacher Taylor Hallet in 1889 and run by his descendants, Hallet's Store still has its original marble-topped soda fountain—with swivel stools edged in chrome, naturally. You'll find the usual general store assortment of foodstuffs and household goods; a little-known museum on the second floor displays a somewhat random collection of artifacts, from World War II ration checks to Lucky Strike advertisements.
Open daily 10 am to 5 pm, late May through mid-October.
San Diego , California
San Diego's version of Rodeo Drive, La Jolla is a high-end shopper's paradise. Small fashion boutiques selling ridiculously expensive white pantsuits, fine art galleries lined with oil paintings and modern sculpture, and diamond-filled jewelry shops can be found on a handful of blocks surrounding the always-tony Prospect Street. Hillcrest is a hip, urban (and predominantly gay and lesbian) neighborhood just northeast of downtown San Diego. It's home to an eclectic mix of shops that hawk everything from used clothing to books to hardware to sex toys. The Hillcrest Farmer's Market is held every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Lincoln Street. Set alongside the Old Town State Historic Park, Bazaar del Mundo is a vibrant—albeit touristy—collection of shops full of jewelry, fashion, gifts, and arts and crafts, mainly from Mexico and Central and South America (www.bazaardelmundo.com). Most of the shopping in Ocean Beach is based around Newport Avenue, with its quirky collection of shops including beachwear shops, antique stores, surf shops, and even a pair of true head shops. Every Wednesday there's a regular Street Fair/Farmer's Market on Newport.
225 Smith Street
Cobble Hill
Brooklyn , New York
Tel: 718 855 4295
Subway: F train to Carroll Street
If you're forever in search of the classic buy and are drawn to the aesthetic of brands like Belstaff, Filson, Barbour, and Moscot, then Smith + Butler is your kind of place. This 1900s carriage house has womenswear up front, home goods in the middle, and menswear in the back room (including New York label Unis's only Brooklyn outpost). It's also crammed with interesting miscellany like floral plates printed with the deadly sins in a Gothic font and books on California's 1970s rock climbers and rock 'n' roll fashions. Everything is placed on and around antique furniture and vintage motorcycles (bike enthusiasts will also love the cool motorcycle accessories sold here) in a way that encourages browsing as much as buying. A huge glass case shows off beautiful handcrafted jewelry, 90 percent of which is by local designers like Yayoi Forest. This place ain't cheap, but that's the thing about a classic buy—you can just keep telling yourself it's expensive because it lasts.—Nicola McCormack
Open Mondays noon to 6 pm, Tuesdays through Thursdays 11 am to 7 pm, Fridays noon to 8 pm, Saturdays 11 am to 8 pm, and Sundays noon to 6 pm.
The area south of Houston has come in and out of fashion over the years, but one thing remains consistent: its high-hip shopping status. Weekends can be chaotic in these parts, between the harried locals, out-of-towners window shopping, and beautiful people clogging the cafés (Downtown Cipriani makes a prime coffee-break spot, if only for the chance to ogle the Euro jet set who frequent it). If possible, visit Soho during the week, when things are quieter and shop attendants aren't quite as preoccupied.
Start on Broadway, worship at the altar of Prada, and work your way over to Sixth Avenue by way of the neighborhood's cobblestone side streets. 3.1 Phillip Lim, an airy, uncluttered space, highlights the architectural dresses and diaphanous cardigans of one of the city's biggest design stars. For something a little racier, head to Kiki de Montparnasse, an upscale lingerie and "intimacy products" store that feels like the parlor of a particularly sophisticated dominatrix. Ina is the place to go for near-new designer wear like Chanel and Balenciaga that's often only a season out of date (sometimes less).
Natural history buffs will love Evolution, where every kind of fossil, bone, skull, medical model, and animal skin can be found, as well as less startling specimens like tribal art and seashells. Continue the theme at Distant Origin, where you'll find antler-based table lamps, zebra-skin poufs, and fur throw pillows mixed with Lucite stag heads, Fortuny silk lamps, and black glass chandeliers. Further east, drop in on Filipino jeweler Federico de Vera, whose madcap shop is filled with interesting antiques like Khmer sculptures, ivory combs, tortoiseshell boxes, and blown-glass insects. Moss feels like a small museum with carefully curated items that run the gamut from porcelain busts to Scandinavian side tables. You'll find more classic pieces at Ted Muehling's small shop on Howard Street, on the neighborhood's southeast fringe. The delicate silver and gold pieces include slightly asymmetrical oval bangles and earrings resembling grains of rice.
309 South Cedros Avenue
Solana Beach , California
Tel: 858 794 9016
Spend an afternoon alongside the haughty Hollywood designers scouting the aisles of housewares, books, jewelry, and other treasures at Solo. Housed in a 4,000-square-foot restored warehouse in the Cedros Design District, the collective of upscale home and accessory merchants offers everything from hand-painted French linen tablecloths and bistro tables to arty coffee-table books, soap, and letterpress stationary. Don't miss Jennifer Price's vintage stall, where funky vintage furnishings get a new lease. We especially dig her film reel coffee tables and typewriter jewelry.—Audrey Davidow
Open Mondays through Saturdays10 am to 6 pm, Sundays 11 am to 5 pm.
2209 N.W. Market Street
Seattle , Washington
Tel: 206 297 2666
This independent minichain knows rock 'n' roll. You won't find a better selection of Northwest artists and small, independent labels in the city. Listening stations, placards, and knowledgeable staff members (many of whom moonlight as rock 'n' roll stars themselves) make it easy to sift through the large collection of new and used CDs. This branch in Ballard occasionally has great in-store performances from local and national acts; there's a smaller outpost in Capitol Hill (514 15th Ave. E.; 206-568-2666).
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 10 pm, Sundays 10 am to 7 pm.
Austin , Texas
The anchor of Austin's hippest hood, this pedestrian-friendly strip also offers the city's most eclectic shopping. Coeds and scenesters get decked out at vintage stores like New Bohemia (512-326-1238) and Lucy In Disguise With Diamonds (512-444-2002; www.lucyindisguise.com); trendy homemakers haunt antiques emporiums such as Uncommon Objects (512-442-4000); country boys load up on gear at Allens Boots (512-447-1413; www.allensboots.com). Line up with the locals at the walk-up window of Amy's Ice Cream (512-440-7488; www.amysicecream.com). On the first Thursday of each month, SoCo merchants stay open late and offer food, drinks, and live music as part of a boisterous block party (www.firstthursday.info).
What Newbury is to fashion, and Charles is to antiques, the South End is to home decor. This perennially up-and-coming neighborhood still has some rough edges, but they are being smoothed out more and more each day as the historic brick-lined blocks welcome high-end boutiques and restaurants—and residents to frequent them. The main action takes place on three streets that run parallel to each other: Tremont, Shawmut, and Washington. Stop at Lekker if you are in the mood for some Dutch porcelain (1317 Washington St.; 617-542-6464; www.lekkerhome.com; closed Mondays). Around the corner from Lekker, the diminutive Hudson sources its fine and vintage home accents a little closer to home—expect to see the latest from Oly and Shabby Chic by Rachel Ashwell in addition to throw pillows designed by the store's owner, Jill Goldberg (312 Shawmut Ave.; 617-292-0900; www.hudsonboston.com; closed Mondays). Fuel up at South End Formaggio, which stocks an immaculate selection of wines, cheeses, charcuterie, and gourmet sandwiches (268 Shawmut Ave.; 617-350-6996; www.southendformaggio.com) before heading to Turtle, Storey Hieronymus Hauck's outlet for showing off her favorite under-the-radar fashion designers from near—Boston's own Cheng Lin—and far—Elm of Iceland (619a Tremont St.; 617-266-2610; www.turtleboston.com; closed Mondays). If you happen to be in town on the first Friday of the month, head a little west of the beaten path to SOWA Artists Guild, where over 50 emerging artists open their cubby hole-sized studios to give the public an unobtrusive glimpse into their hearts and souls (450 Harrison Ave.; 978-337-4191; www.sowaartists.com).
400 Harrison Avenue
South End
Boston , Massachusetts
Artists, famers, vendors, and designers—and the shoppers who love them—swarm to the SoWa Open Market Sundays from the spring to early fall. (There's a winter indoor market from mid-November until the end of April.) It's the city's best outdoor market, where you'll find handmade jewelry and crafts, original artwork, indie designer clothing, just-picked produce, fresh-baked breads and pies, a hip and fun crowd, and food trucks lined up to fuel your hunt for something special.—Jon Marcus
Sundays 10 am to 4 pm, May 1 through October 31. Winter market (485 Harrison Ave.) Sundays 10 am to 2 pm, mid-November through April 30.
2555 Main Street
St. Helena , California
Tel: 888 424 2433
Whether you're in the market for a pair of chef's pants, a jar of exotic sea salt, or an obscure kitchen gadget, this Napa Valley shop—the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone's campus store—is sure to have it. This is where CIA students (and many local chefs) shop, and it's stocked with the wine country's best selection of quality knives, cookware, and glassware. The store also has more than 1,700 cookbook titles in stock, an array of packaged ingredients, and hard-to-find spices from around the world.
Open daily 10 am to 6 pm.
198 Gore Creek Avenue
Vail , Colorado
Tel: 970 476 3129
Artisan jewelry by local and international artists is the specialty here—Burmese ruby necklaces, precious-stone rings, Victorian slide bracelets, Brazilian gold earrings—and the designs of in-house beadwork artists Katey Jenkins and Jill Koelhoffer.
334 Newbury Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 262 3348
This subterranean store is surprisingly roomy and unintimidating, with the designer goods laid out on big wooden tables and roll-away racks. Compared to other Newbury Street stores with aisles so narrow it's impossible to pass, there's lots of space to browse the selection of women's fare from Ben Mori, Groceries, and Reece Hudson or men's clothes from Ape, Billy Kirk, and Unknown Soldier.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
1138 Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Venice , California
Tel: 310 314 1555
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer's stepdaughter Alexandra Balahoutis creates fancy, all-natural scents at this craftsman bungalow-turned-perfume-boutique in Venice. There are 17 fragrances, with romantic names like Prima Ballerina and Fair Verona, but you can also sign up for private consultations and have her blend a pricey custom fragrance.
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm.
4 Via Parigi
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 655 6857
If you're lucky enough to snag an invitation to the ultraexclusive Bath and Tennis Club for cocktails, you might think of picking up a pair of signature needlepoint slippers or loafers from this venerable shop off Worth Avenue for the, ahem, well-heeled. The line recently expanded beyond frogs and crests to more youthful embellishments like grenades and skulls. The velvet or linen slippers are handmade in Spain and start at about $350 off the rack. The shop offers customized pairs as well, which start at $900.
3067 Sacramento Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 888 811 7276
If you like to cover your bed with luxurious throw cushions and grace your dinner parties with elaborate table settings, then this place is for you. The selection of opulent home accessories includes Venetian glass mirrors, Anichini pillows, and gorgeous hand-blocked silk bed-coverings. The furniture selection, including pieces from Paris and the Far East, is elegant but not stuffy. There's also a wide selection of flatware and European dishes (you can order a set with your family crest or monogram) and Italian bath linens.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm.
124 N. 3rd Street
Philadelphia , Pennsylvania
Tel: 215 238 0825
Elisa Buratto, formerly the vintage buyer for Philadelphia-founded Urban Outfitters, is the experienced eye behind this vintage-lover's closet. She knows just how to combine new designs (APC denim, Hengst of San Francisco dresses, Bing Bang jewelry, and totes by local designers So & Sew) with a strong selection of mint-condition finds (cocktail dresses, belts, eyeglass frames, bags, and shoes).
Open Mondays through Saturdays noon to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
41 Main Street
Edgartown , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 627 5254
Even men who hate to shop will like to shop at Sundog. The hypermasculine two-story storestill run by two generations of the family that founded it in 1970sells only clothing made of natural fibers, from madras sweaters and rugby shirts to oil-skinned British hunting jackets and comfortable shoes. If that doesn't reel them in, there also are display cases filled with quirky curiosities like buck knives. This isn't some shopping-mall marketing genius's idea of a men's store. It's the real thing.
103 Main Street
Sag Harbor , New York
Tel: 631 725 5012
Searching for a set of bamboo-and-cotton sheets, spiked olives, or gingersnap cookies? This modern take on a general store in Sag Harbor is your one-stop shop. Among the gifts and essential items for the stylish Hamptons home, you'll find placemats in rainbow colors, Tea Forté teas, nautical-knot doorstops, patchouli bath oils, jauntily striped pajamas, and confections ranging from Marie Belle and Michel Cluizel chocolates to plump sour-cherry oatmeal cookies. Grab a coffee at the long counter and create a temporary masterpiece on one of the Etch A Sketches. A second outpost (with a similarly eclectic but more home-oriented selection) is located in Amagansett.—Updated by Darrell Hartman
83 Hana Highway
Paia , Hawaii
Tel: 808 579 9184
She's been dubbed the Catherine Malandrino of Maui, though Catz is originally from Argentina, not France. She met her champion-windsurfer husband, Francisco Goya, on a visit to the island a decade ago, and it's now their home and the headquarters for her rich-hippie women's line (which sells in trendy boutiques like Madison in Los Angeles and Big Drop in New York). Definitely targeted at the young and the thin, these romantic pieces are exactly right for tropical living.
Montana decor begins and ends with one thing: taxidermy. From bearskin rugs to prairie-dog lamps, no home is complete without the company of at least one glassy-eyed beast. If you've vanquished an elk, a bison, or even just a trout, there are dozens of taxidermists throughout the state ready and waiting to mount your trophy. But for bragging without actually bagging, Dumont Taxidermy Studio in Libby stocks a rotating selection of ready-made deer, elk, moose, and bear products; call ahead for availability (406-293-6776; www.dumonttaxidermy.com). If you're just looking, the Valley County Pioneer Museum in Glasgow has an amazing if bizarre collection that includes two-headed calves and a buffalo mount made to honor FDR (www.valleycountymuseum.com). To meet all your antler needs, from coffee tables and drawer pulls to chandeliers, stop by Antler Art in Bozeman (406-587-5255; www.franklong.com).
109. E. Colorado Avenue
Telluride , Colorado
Tel: 970 728 3338
The Toggery is a clunky name for the most venerable clothing store in town. Thirty-something years after its founding, it remains the place to buy Ugg boots, Levi's, or the swimsuit for the hot-tub fest tonight.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 9 pm, Sundays 9 am to 8 pm.
103 Paseo Del Pubelo Norte
Taos , New Mexico
Tel: 505 758 3911
The local artists who show in this two-story painting and sculpture gallery, just off Taos's main drag, manage to convey a sense of place without resorting to hackneyed landscapes. Leigh Gusterson's bucolic scenes feature dogs out of old '50s pickups, zany perspectives, and a charmingly bright and eccentric palette. Issa De Nicola uses smudged pastels to depict churches and local houses, and Ton Stormberg's photographs of horses on a local farm are stunning.
Open daily 10 am to 6 pm
309 Main Street
Park City , Utah
Tel: 435 649 4927
While some Park City galleries specialize in bringing in works by faraway artists, Terzian proudly focuses on Utahans. You might find Doug Braithwaite's plein-air landscapes, found-object works by contemporary realist Joe Carter, BYU graduate Tyler Meadows Davis's kinetic sculptures of glass and rusted steel, or the graceful paintings of trees by Ron Rogers. Despite all the local promotion, Terzian isn't above outsiders, such as Iranian-Canadian sculptor Davoud Khosravi; his multicolored urns of "wooden pottery," which fit together like elegant puzzles, are made of rare woods such as ebony and purpleheart, as well as more ordinary maple, cherry, and walnut.
Call ahead for an appointment.
170 N. Cache Street
Jackson , Wyoming
Tel: 307 733 3595 or 800 850 3595 (toll free)
When you're buying equipment like avalanche beacons and climbing rope, the bored salesman at Wal-Mart doesn't inspire confidence. This outdoor specialty shop claims to be the oldest in the States, and the stringy guy selling you an ice ax is the same dude you'll see clinging to a rock face on Grand Teton tomorrow. The shop sells everything from crampons to Clif bars, but it is most indispensable in its employees' ability to pass along advice on local conditions. Backcountry ski equipment (but not mountaineering gear) is available for rent, too.
449 Main Street
Park City , Utah
Tel: 435 658 1691
It's an odd place for one of the foremost dealers of Russian impressionist painting in the United States, but this Park City gallery is home to a constantly rotating collection of masterful Soviet canvases dating from the 1930s to the present. You've probably never heard of the painters, but the images of both landscapes and rural folk are quite wonderful—and a nice break from Ansel Adams and antler art.
Open Sundays through Thursdays 11 am to 6 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm.
38 Via Mizner
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 650 1221
Maier, the creative director of Bottega Veneta, opened this satellite to his Miami Beach flagship in late 2007. The closet-size shop, tucked in a courtyard right off Worth Avenue, stocks men's and women's pieces from Bottega (of course), Azzedine Alaïa, Comme des Garçons, and Marni, as well as Maier's own line of knits and swimwear. The selections all follow a minimalist aesthetic and are stocked almost exclusively in a muted beige, gray, or white color palette. The store also carries the necessary objects for the luxury life, like Diptyque candles, Mariage Frères tea, and tableware from Heath Ceramics.
170 N.E 40th Street
Design District
Miami , Florida
Tel: 888 373 0707
The creative director of the Italian fashion label Bottega Veneta relocated his namesake shop from a '30s-style bungalow on the edge of South Beach to the Design District in the fall of 2008. But the merchandise has stayed the same. Everything is still very much a personal statement of what Maier considers beautiful—even if that means displaying competitors' items alongside some Bottega designs and his own line of knits and swimwear. You'll find pieces from prominent jewelers mixed in with one-of-a-kind flea market finds, photography books, hats, DVDs, ceramics, shoes, and more.
Open Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 6pm.
141 East Meadow Drive
Vail , Colorado
Tel: 970 476 7439
Bowers, a former U.S. ski team member, opened his second Vail location in the Solaris resort. The high-end shop, with a staff known for personalized service, features thoughtfully chosen ski gear by Volki and Fisher, plus apparel and aprés-ski options from brands like Kjus and Prada.—Samantha Berman
315 Worth Avenue
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 832 3525
You'll find just the right pair of pants (men still get away with wearing pink madras trousers here) and polo shirt to wear on the fairway at this cheerful clothing boutique. Check out the cashmere fleece zip-ups, perfect for a brisk morning walk on the beach or evening cocktails outside.
Closed Sundays.
17 Centre Street
Nantucket , Massachusetts
Tel: 508 228 4450
Eclectic and sea-themed housewares fill this tiny shop, including frosted wine goblets, decoupage plates made from antique illustrations of fish and sea creatures, glass candlesticks, and table centerpieces of deep-red coral. Among the must-haves are the vividly hued, handbeaded place mats in the shapes of lobsters and fish; they're the perfect accessory for lunch aboard your yacht.
Open Mondays through Saturdays.
8008 W. 3rd Street
Los Angeles , California
Tel: 323 651 1382
Local design darling Trina Turk has transformed this 3,000-square-foot space into a swirly girly showroom for her modern take on vintage clothing. Unlike many of the body-skimming, deconstructed looks filling L.A.'s trendy boutiques these days, Turk's pieces (swingy peacoats, graphic print tops, and Jackie O.–inspired cocktail dresses) are actually designed to accommodate a few curves. And you'll love the attentive sales staff.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
301 S. Park Avenue
Winter Park , Florida
Tel: 407 628 1609
Tuni has been a fixture on Park Avenue's fashion scene for several decades, but the stock is decidedly this-season. The high-end merchandise is from labels not found at Orlando's many department stores and includes tunics from Trina Turk and girly minidresses from Tibi. There are lots of accessories on offer as well: Animal-print pumps are a popular buy (it is Florida, after all), as are local designer Amanda Joy's handbags in snakeskin and other exotic leathers.—Terry Ward
Open Mondays and Tuesdays 10 am to 7 pm, Wednesdays through Fridays 10 am to 8 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm, and Sundays 10 am to 6 pm.
619a Tremont Street
South End
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 266 2610
Turtle specializes in women's fashion designers from the U.S. and abroad who are just coming out of their shells—get it?—such as Elm of Iceland, Aimee G, or the home-grown Cheng Lin. The selection is extensive, and includes small gifts such as jewelry and soaps. While Turtle can be pricey, there are frequent sales with deep discounts, and you definitely won't look like you shopped at the mall.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays through Fridays 11 am to 7 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
73 Charles Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 742 1031
Twentieth Century Limited's display cases are filled with vintage, estate, and costume jewelry, cultured pearls, sterling silver, antique cuff links, and even tiaras from the '40s and '50s, each of which suggests the story of a long-ago owner. But what we really like are the Bakelite, Art Deco, antique clocks, hats, and handbags. There are other antiques in this crowded space, too, including paintings, prints, and photographs, most of them unique potential gifts that are surprisingly affordable.—Jon Marcus
Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 6 pm, Sundays noon to 5 pm.
127 West Colorado Avenue
Telluride , Colorado
Tel: 970 728 6828
This artsy shop off Telluride's main drag occupies a sunny gallery-style space hung with local art and teeming with character. The inventory is made for looking polished by the lodge fire, including sweaters from Christopher Fischer Cashmere to be paired with jeans from Paige Premium Denim.—Samantha Berman
1509 Walnut Street
Philadelphia , Pennsylvania
Tel: 215 988 0194
You're not in Foot Locker anymore. When it opened in May 2007, this sneaker shop brought an urban, indy element to Walnut Street's stretch of predictable retailers (Club Monaco, Cole Haan, and the rest). The front room—a black-and-white space that's more art gallery than shoe shop—is a sneaker buff's paradise. The dapper staff happily expounds on each pair's rarity, color palette significance, release date, and value, so you know whether you're buying for the street or the safe-deposit box. Among the options are Nike Dunks (the current hipster sneaker of choice), retro Re-Runs (colorful, chunky-soled reissues from the 1970s), as well as limited editions and prototypes. The back room, like a gentleman's boudoir with a carved wood fireplace, is stocked with Stussy Deluxe and aNYthing brand T-shirts and hoodies. Ascend the intricately carved wood staircase—lent some street cred by the cartoonish graphic art on the walls—to the second floor, which is devoted to Vans, from high-top Chukka Boots to Velcro-strapped Prison Issue. To impress your sneakerhead friends, walk out with snakeskin-print high-top pumps (there are only 48 pairs of these Reebok-Ubiq collaborations in existence).
Open Mondays and Tuesdays 11 am to 7:30 pm, Wednesdays through Saturdays 11 am to 8 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
112.5 S. La Brea Avenue
Los Angeles , California
Tel: 323 937 6077
Undefeated is the definitive place where sneaker freakers camp out for hard-to-find kicks. From their own label collaborations with designers like Vans, Adidas, and Nike, to a $2,000 pair of gator-skin Air Force 1's, the store offers something for everyone, though the selection for guys is still much broader than for the girls. Some say the service comes with more attitude than they'd like, but it's a small price to pay for a rare pair of vintage Air Jordan's.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
This neighborhood just north of downtown Dallas, which is roughly defined by the route of the McKinney Avenue Trolley, is chockablock with charming older residences that house many of the city's best art galleries, florists, frame shops, boutiques, and antique shops. Shaded sidewalks actually encourage walking, so begin with Stanley Korshak. Located in the Crescent Court (Philip Johnson's massive 1985 French Second Empireon-steroids concoction), this impeccable local specialty store is fitted out in a luxuriously contemporary Milanese style, with designer boutiques, bridal shop, and the most stylish menswear in town. Uncommon Market consists of two picturesque houses and an adjacent warehouse, all overflowing with a global selection of reasonably priced furniture, decorative accessories, and architectural salvage. There are whole rooms devoted to leather-bound books, old leather luggage, and light fixturesand an entire yard full of stone and cast-iron urns. Riddell Rare Maps & Fine Print has a rich selection of 17th- to 19th-century cartography and historical prints, focusing on Texas and the West. Photographs Do Not Bend Gallery features cutting-edge fine-art photography by regional icons as well as international stars. At the north end of Uptown is the West Village, a two-block retailresidential development with more than 30 glamorous, young-thinking shops where you can buy Vespas, custom-tailored shirts, gourmet dog biscuits, or really outrageous urban cowboy attire. Ahab Bowen is bursting at the seams with vintage dresses and costume jewelry.
210 South Galena Street
Aspen , Colorado
Tel: 970 925 2849
This homegrown local biz is adamant about selling the right gear to the right person. Stop in for everything you need for Aspen's outdoor lifestyle—men's and women's clothing, shoes, camping gear, backcountry must-haves, hiking, climbing, biking, and more.—by Samantha Berman
600 Fifth Avenue South
Seattle , Washington
Tel: 206 624 6248
A highlight of the International Districta humongous grocery store and gift shop with good deals on Asian housewares, including beautifully glazed dishes, shoji screens, and lacquerware. Set aside some time to wander the endless aisles, where you'll encounter piles of otherworldly vegetables, tanks of live geoducks, a Hello Kitty corner, and a cosmetics section where you'll find Shiseido products otherwise available only in Japan. A bustling food court serves Chinese stir-fries, Japanese bento box meals, Korean barbecue, Vietnamese spring rolls, and a variety of bubble teas and milk drinks.
142 Beaver Creek Place
Avon , Colorado
Tel: 970 748 5008
West Coast meets mountain chic in this small women's boutique in Avon, the town at the foot of Beaver Creek Mountain Resort. The Avon store is the original location; the boutique has since opened shops in Breckenridge and Aspen. Drop in for Miss Me and Rock Revival jeans, cozy sweaters, and accessories that you won't see on anyone else.—Samantha Berman
2205 N.W. Market Street
Seattle , Washington
Tel: 206 788 0330
Designer Tes de Luna's label Zuzupop is sold in a dozen different boutiques from Seattle to Brooklyn. Her tiny Ballard storefront, Velouria, carries the first pick of the line, along with items from other local designers (chic vegan handbags by Crystalyn Kae, delicate silver jewelry by Amy Tavern). The best way to describe the overall collection is girly hipster-chicyou might find asymmetrical t-shirts with bright, blocky prints; A-line skirts with oversize buttons or satiny sashes; or fitted corduroy jacket/hoodie sweatshirt hybrids with lacey appliqués. There's also a great selection of leather handbags and wallets and jewelry ranging from delicate to bold.
2009 Belmont Boulevard
Nashville , Tennessee
Tel: 615 915 4846
Opened in late October 2008, this vintage store and showroom is co-owned by British supermodel Karen Elson, the wife of fellow Nashville transplant Jack White of the White Stripes and Raconteurs. The store fills a simple white two-story house: The first floor holds an affordable mix of secondhand pieces like Western shirts and cotton day dresses aimed at a college clientele (Belmont University is across the street), while the upstairs features a pristine selection of antique couture by the likes of Chanel and Ossie Clark—handpicked by Karen on her international travels.
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm.
657 Main Street
Weston , Vermont
Tel: 802 824 3184
Leave yourself plenty of time for perusing the wares of this Weston landmark (found in the center of Vermont, northeast of Manchester), whose old-fashioned appeal will delight even the most sophisticated of shoppers. Billing themselves as "purveyors of the practical and hard-to-find," the Orton family has operated this sprawling smorgasbord since 1946, selling everything from Prohibition-era Evening in Paris perfume and pleated muumuus to Hobo Soup and vodka-laced lemon cake. There are also more practical items, such as flannel blankets, gardening rakes, and even a mini elliptical trainer. But the main draw here is nostalgia. Among the wooden barrels, exposed rafters, and wood-burning stoves, you'll feel like a kid in a candy store.
Open daily 9 am to 5:30 pm.
Bellagio Hotel & Casino
3600 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas , Nevada
Tel: 888 987 6667; 702 693 7111
The wonder of Via Bellagio lies not only in its architecture (designed to resemble a Milanese galleria) but also in its collection of high-end brand names: Armani, Hermès, Chanel, Gucci, Prada. But no intimidating salespeople here: They're mostly helpful and inviting. Though it's part of the Bellagio resort, Via Bellagio has its own valet parking just west of the Strip on Flamingo Road.
Along and between Victory Avenue, Victory Park Lane, North Houston, and Olive streets
Intersection of I-35 and Woodall Rodgers Freeway
Dallas , Texas
If Highland Park got Dallas mall culture started, Victory Park took it into the 21st century. This master-planned living and entertainment development, centered around the American Airlines Center stadium, is like a candy store for grown-up kids with much bigger allowances than they once had. Early returns are in, and in addition to several high-rise luxury apartment buildings, they've already brought in dozens of top boutiques, including Diane von Furstenberg and Zegna; a gleaming modern W Hotel with its Bliss spa, its world-class Craft restaurant, and its rooftop Ghostbar; plus Vegas's N9NE Steakhouse, a House of Blues, and a host of other restaurants that range from the not-bad to the not-good. In the works are a Mandarin Oriental hotel (slated for 2010) and a Museum of Nature & Science. Its bizarre Orwellian name aside, Victory Park is a fascinating, at times troubling insight into the ways in which mallsand Dallas itselfare combining shopping and living communities into high-end gated "lifestyle centers."
1672 Haight Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 626 5939
If you want to look cool without seeming like you're trying too hard, Villains is the place to go. The look is understated but youthful and urban. The great selection of designer T-shirts includes the quirky Gama-Go brand, a local favorite. The cute staff members really know their denim and will help you pick the perfect pair of jeans from their vast selection, which includes 7 for All Mankind and Citizens for Humanity. Sneaker fetishists will have a hard time resisting Villains Shoes next door.
Open daily 11 am to 7 pm.
Although the U Street Corridor is now the province of million-dollar town houses, you can still channel its jazzy, soulful past by vintage shopping at the boutiques on U Street between 15th and 16th streets. Foundry stocks finds such as reclaimed industrial carts, old steamer trunks, and refinished antique dressers. If your tastes lean more toward midcentury, visit Millennium Decorative Arts, a wonderland of teak credenzas and chrome arc lamps. For clothes, stop by Junction for flirty day dresses and Lucite necklaces, or Dr. K for original Levi's, cowboy boots, and other slick Americana. Ginger Root Design takes an old-made-new approach with clothes and accessories stitched from recycled vintage fabrics.Colleen Clark
3 Via Parigi
Palm Beach , Florida
Tel: 561 655 9374
On a side street off Worth Avenue at 3 Via Parigi, Vivi's will provide you with engraved stationery and an impromptu etiquette lesson. The owner combines juicy bits of social gossip with tips on the finer points of personalized printed itemsfrom escort and dinner cards to seating boards and thank-you notes.
Closed Sundays.
1800 N. Orange Avenue
Orlando , Florida
Tel: 407 228 4403
Just walking through Washburn Imports feels like a journey to an exotic market on the other side of the world—without the haggling, of course. Regular trips to India, Bali, and China by the owners ensure that the stock of statement pieces is constantly replenished. Some of the heavy wooden doors and window frames sold here (mostly from India) date back four centuries. And it's easy to reimagine your home's entire personality while marveling at an Indian bed crafted from heavy teak doors. While you can find interesting accessories for less than $50 here, many of the items cost upward of several thousand dollars. Luckily, the Imperial Wine Bar, where you can deliberate on your decision over a glass of tempranillo and a plate of charcuterie, is right in the middle of the shop.—Terry Ward
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays 11 am to 5 pm.
600 N. Lamar
Austin , Texas
Tel: 512 474 2500
At a modest 6,400 square feet, Waterloo is hardly a megastore, but it's a music lover's dream. A weekly sales chart tells you what the savvy locals are buying, and 11 listening stations let you evaluate their tastes. Don't like what you bought? Return it within ten daysfor whatever reason. Many of the big touring acts stop by for in-store performances the day of the show, sometimes with free beer provided by sponsors.
1220 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach , Florida
Tel: 305 674 7899
When it comes to boutique shopping, less can be more. But the Webster#8212;20,000 square feet of designer-centric temptation located in a historic Art Deco building in Miami Beach—plays by its own rules. Co-owned by three fashion world veterans who have worked with the likes of Yves Saint Laurent, Hermès, and Balenciaga, the multibrand boutique has been a South Beach success story since opening in 2009. Women's and men's ready-to-wear clothing and accessories are on the first two floors (the third floor is a pop-up art gallery). The wares are a little edgier than the tiny bikinis and loud prints that Miami is known for. Cool girls come for Alexander Wang tank tops, Martin Margiela booties, and Tom Ford sunglasses, while the boys opt for Band of Outsiders and Rag & Bone. The 1939 building, once a hotel, still has the original Deco flooring and gold-and-silver striped booths, where you can sip a glass of Champagne or an espresso while bracing for the cash register tally.—Terry Ward
Open Mondays through Saturdays 11 am to 8 pm, Sundays noon to 6 pm.
833 State Street
Santa Barbara , California
Tel: 805 966 2276
A longtime favorite with locals, this light and airy store with old wood floors and high ceilings has wide fashion appeal, mixing understated luxury and a slightly boho vibe, from Tracy Reese and Rebecca Taylor to Calypso and Ya-Ya, plus the standard Juicy Couture. For those with a slightly younger bent, there's Wendy Foster's Angel in Montecito, a laid-back boutique with consciously messy displays (1221 Coast Village Road; 805-565-1599).
Open daily 10 am to 6 pm.
The West Village lays claim to some of the city's best microneighborhoods, from the upscale far reaches of the Meatpacking District to the gourmet wonderland of Bleecker Street at its southern end (for foodies, Murray's Cheese at No. 254 is a worthy pilgrimage all on its own). Spend your way down Bleecker between West 10th and Hudson to see big-name haunts like Ralph Lauren, Juicy Couture, Mulberry, and Intermix, leaving plenty of time to pay homage to the block between 11th and Bank Street, also known as "Marc Jacobs Land".
Veer west after Bleecker meets Hudson and you'll find the Meatpacking District, which long ago transitioned from blue collar to boutique. Two blocks up Hudson Street is Elizabeth Charles, home of hard-to-find Australian and New Zealand labels such as Lover, Jayson Brundson, and Karen Walker.
Most of the noteworthy Meatpacking retailers are clustered on and around West 14th Street. Neighborhood pioneer Jeffrey is haute without attitude and is the place to go for both mens and womens footwear. Stella McCartney's flagship has her trademark floaty dresses, sexy separates, and animal-friendly accessories next door is the inventive DDCLab, a design studio known for its futuristic fabrics and sophisticated takes on denim. Blink and you'll walk right by Ten Thousand Things, a small jewelry store showcasing David Rees and Ron Anderson's understated, sculptural pieces. Diane Von Furstenberg's sexy, Pop-bright space on the corner of Washington Street highlights her famous wrap dresses. Skip across over the road to one of Scoop's four neighboring stores for a great edit of right-this-minute labels like Anya Hindmarch resort wear and Alice Temperley bags.
For those with energy (and cash) to spare, you can continue your retail rampage south or east of the Meatpacking district to shops like Flight 001 on Greenwich Avenue, which stocks Orla Kiely roll-ons, quirky luggage decals, passport holders, and more. Then head around the corner on Jane Street to the Pierre Hardy boutique, the brand's first outside of Paris. The opening was greeted with grand enthusiasm by the six-inch-heel set, which flocks here for architectural stilettos, fabulous wedges, and sexier-than-they-have-a-right-to-be pumps. There's also a selection of beautifully made brogues and high-end leather sneakers for men.
525 N. Lamar
Austin , Texas
Tel: 512 476 1206
Fax: 512 476 5704
The organic food revolution started in 1980, when Whole Foods Market, devoted to all things natural, was founded in Austin. A few blocks from the original, its gargantuan new flagshipat 80,000 square feet, it's nearly three times the size of most supermarketsis a food Disneyland where you can you can dip strawberries in a chocolate fountain at Candy Island or browse the acres of organic produce. A trip here is at once eco-friendly and decadent.
375 Sutter Street
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 986 4380
A San Francisco original since 1966, Wilkes Bashford is the city's priciest and most exclusive department store, catering to local elite hungry for upscale sportswear, couture, and premium men's suits—labels include Brioni, Kiton, Monique Lhuillier, and Azzedine Alaia. But with Neiman Marcus, Saks, and Barneys all in the neighborhood, it's Wilkes' personal service that keeps customers coming back. The sales team and tailor will make house calls, and the staff is experienced in closet clean-outs and wardrobe editing. Gift wrapping is always gorgeous (and free), and if you get hungry while perusing the season's looks in the private salon, just order a little "room service" from the acclaimed Campton Place. Too tired to carry your packages home? Wilkes will have them delivered.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm.
49 Charles Street
Boston , Massachusetts
Tel: 617 227 4441
Trendy, tiny Wish sells high-end (read: expensive) women's clothing, from the classics (Diane von Furstenberg is a staple) to contemporary (Trina Turk, Alice + Olivia, Hudson, Ella Moss, Nanette Lapore, and Splendid). Although the space is a little claustrophobic, the salespeople usually won't hover or intrude. And while it's pricey, there are frequent deep sales, especially at seasons' ends.—Jon Marcus
Open Mondays 10 am to 6 pm, Tuesdays through Fridays 10 am to 7 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays 11 am to 5 pm.
1367 Main Street
St. Helena , California
Tel: 800 966 3468
Go ahead—just try to resist the seductive window display at this high-end chocolate boutique, where white-gloved salespeople lovingly tuck artisanal delicacies (made in the European tradition, without preservatives) into china-blue boxes reminiscent of Tiffany & Co. The offerings extend far beyond your typical truffle; here, chocolate is transformed into intricately patterned stilettos, squirrels, poison-dart frogs, and other precious shapes, filled with exotic ingredients such as Thai ginger, passion fruit, and honey. But confections like this don't come cheap: One pound will set you back nearly $80. Be sure not to leave your purchases in a hot car.
Open daily 10:30 am to 5:30 pm.
The designer labels lined up here earned this stretch the nickname Rodeo Drive of the Eastthough, frankly, it's a little smarter and less in-your-face than L.A.'s retail mecca. The main drag is full of upscale labels known for their resort wear like St. John, Escada, Emilio Pucci, and Chanel plus Italian cashmere companies Malo and Loro Piana. Preppy mainstay Ralph Lauren has a megastore here, of course. The best place to browse and splurgeis at Lana Marks. The Palm Beach designer's alligator handbags and clutches are the epitome of Wasp chic.
Nonshoppers should take a stroll down the avenue as well to see the Mediterranean revival architecture and the hidden courtyards and alleyways that eccentric designer Addison Mizner used to create an ersatz old-world vibe. Local legend has it that Mizner, known for his love of theatrical staircases-to-nowhere, went as far as using inexperienced workmen who'd lay artfully wonky roof tiles. The best of his folly-style offshoots is on Via Mizner at the westernmost end. This collection of interlocking courtyards was originally home to the architect's apartment and is now where you'll find a selection of smaller shops like Tomas Maier. For another glimpse of Mizner's studied eccentricity, check out the grave of his pet monkey, Johnnie Brown, marked in the courtyard next to Pizza al Fresco.
Wynn Las Vegas
3131 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas , Nevada
Tel: 702 770 7100
There's not much difference between the Wynn's shopping strip and Via Bellagio. Both promenades have small boutiques with big names (here, Chanel, Oscar de la Renta, Dior, Cartier, Brioni, and Graff), though Wynn scored a win when it landed Manolo Blahnik. The Louis Vuitton store is also particularly good, with barlike seating for checking out the bags. There's also a Ferrari and Maserati dealership with about 40 cars on museumlike display and a $10 entry fee (so Vegas). If you already have wheels, use the hidden valet behind the hotel, just east of the Strip on Sands Boulevard (Spring Mountain Road). Look for a street sign that reads "Wynn South Gate," and you'll arrive directly at the Esplanade.
66-590 Kamehameha Highway
Haleiwa , Hawaii
Tel: 808 637 6239
Founded in 1982 on the North Shore, Xcel still manufactures and sells standard and custom-fit wet suits for surfing and diving. There's also a good selection of vests and jerseys for other water sports (wakeboarding, spearfishing, waterskiing), rash guards (Lycra shirts to wear in the water), and adorable onesies for babies made with SPF 50 fabric.
754 Columbus Avenue
San Francisco , California
Tel: 415 421 4814
His truffles may look rough-hewn, but their creator, Jean-Marc Gorce, is a master craftsman, named one of the top ten chocolate makers in the United States by Chocolatier magazine. His tiny shop sells 27 flavors. Try the peanut butter with dark chocolate—a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup that has died and gone to heaven. Or sample "Casimira's Favourite," named after Gorce's wife: smooth white chocolate ganache perfumed with Madagascar vanilla.
Open Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 6 pm, Sundays 10:30 am to 6 pm.
268 Mulberry Street
Little Italy
New York City , New York
What's true of most cities also applies to New York: If you want to take the temperature of the town's tastes and style, get to a market. The Young Designer's Market, which operates out of a church gym on weekends, is a good primer on the future generation of fashion tastemakers: Designers, milliners, jewelers, and accessories makers set up (and usually man) stalls displaying their designs, which offers visitors the unique opportunity of conversing with the creators firsthand. Sure, there's a bit of dross to sift through, but there are always gems to be found among the crowded aisles. The labels on display change from week to week, but some recent standouts included cute, vintage-inspired cloche hats by Charm NYC; waist-cinching leather belts from Jetta Boone; and some gorgeous beaten-gold cuffs at the stall of Jennifer Young, who designs under the name Chameleon. The best part of finding something you like? You can expect to pay a mere fraction of the price for comparable pieces in high-end stores.
Open Saturdays and Sundays 11 am to 7 pm.
15 Gansevoort Street
West Village
New York City , New York
Tel: 212 242 5511
If you don't have kids, Yoyamart will make you want to raise a family just so you can shop here. On the eastern edge of the Meatpacking District, it was conceived as a shopping experience for a cool dad, and stocks things that would be equally at home in a kid's room as in an adult's. You'll find the requisite cool kid-sized Y3 Adidas sneakers, miniature Diesel and Juicy Couture frocks, and removable vinyl wall graphics, as well as novelty toys from Japan, Lomo cameras, Dinh Van jewelry, and a selection of DVDs including Schoolhouse Rock and films by Hayao Miyazaki (of Spirited Away fame). There's a baby store with modernist nursery furniture one block away.
Two N. Summerlin Avenue
Orlando , Florida
Tel: 407 843 3373
The shabby chic decor of this top women's boutique in Thornton Park mirrors owner Wendy Ricchi's eclectic fashion sense to a tee. Delicate crystal chandeliers dangle from exposed-ductwork ceilings, and vintage pink-velvet couches perch atop rough concrete floors. The well-edited selection of clothing from labels like Alice + Olivia and Voom by Joy Han mix very feminine flair with edgy accessories. Look for bold wrap watches with metallic chains and chunky statement necklaces by local label Dora Mae that use materials like Lucite and industrial-style chain links. You'll have all the tools you need to get the bohemian, anything-goes Florida look.—Terry Ward
Open Mondays 10 am to 6 pm, Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 am to 7 pm.