It’s the holidays. Also known as the most wonderful time of the year. That is unless you are wandering around a crowded mall. But holiday shopping doesn’t have to be a dispiriting slog. In fact, there is place where you can stroll through a picturesque landscape all while finding unique and thoughtful gifts. That magical place? Balboa Park, obviously.
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Forget what you’ve heard about malls these days. Since undergoing a $600-million renovation, La Jolla’s Westfield UTC has reopened with delicious local and national eateries, hip boutiques, artisan coffee, Archlight luxury cinemas, and just about every couture fashion brand imaginable. This outdoor shopping experience encapsulates the San Diego and SoCal lifestyle. Continue reading
San Diego has you covered for the “Haute” must-have holiday items and which boutiques to find those perfect gifts for someone special in your life.
San Diego’s well-kept secret place to shop for the local stylistas, located in the quaint area of Mission Hills Shopping District, carries some of the most notable women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessory items around. Need a unique gift for that stylish friend? Be sure to check out the customized patchwork denim jackets to create a personalized holiday gift. Do you not have that special holiday ensemble yet? Try the exclusive “Joseph Ribkoff” collection for that party-perfect dress to stand out among your friends. Be sure to check out the sister boutiques “Le Bel Age”, and “With Love” located on the same block.
Where: 1578 W. Lewis St, San Diego, CA 92103
> Find out more about Chateau Bel Age Boutique
A men’s designer boutique located in the heart of downtown that carries De Marcus designs direct from the designer himself who happens to reside in San Diego. If you need a stocking stuffer for the male in your life, try De Marcus’s skin-care line with argon oil for your hair, skin, and beard. If jewelry is a need, check out the one-of-a-kind cuff links to go with the designer’s custom-fit and custom-made dress shirts with multi-functioning collars. All fabrics are 100% cotton from Istanbul, Turkey, and France.
Where: 205 G St, San Diego, CA 92101
> Find out more about Boutique De Marcus
Henri Bendel is one of my go-to stores for hostess gifts, pet gifts, and holiday gifts. I especially love giving one of the iconic ornaments that are newly created each year as hostess gifts or one of the delicious smelling candles. For the dog lovers, I enjoy giving the signature dog collars or plush toys. A great gift for that travel-chic family member would be any of the beautifully packaged sets like the shoe bag, laundry bag, and the travel trio set.
Where: 6967 Friars Rd, San Diego, CA 92108
> Find out more about Henri Bende
Swoon, a “millennial” girls dream, carries unique brands at good price points, in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you are holiday shopping for your daughter, niece, or friend, check out the oversized mid-knit cardigan sweaters by “Beulah”. To complete your gift, you can always add one of the on-trend dainty pendant necklaces by “Audrey3+1”, in gold or rose gold that has a small Hamsa Hand or Buddha on it.
Where: 7910 Ivanhoe Ave, San Diego, CA 92037
> Find out more about Swoon
TRE Boutique specializes in women’s sophisticated and savvy styles. Located in the Flower Hill Promenade, this colorful boutique is one of San Diego’s favorites and has been crowned “The Best of San Diego” for over 20 years. If you want that perfect gift that screams luxurious check out “Dana Stein’s” cashmere wraps that are just right for a cool fall evening. I also love the local jewelry designs by “Tassel & Rock”, known for their fresh water and baroque pearl necklaces, and “Amy Joy Designs”, showcasing semi-precious stone statement pieces. Be sure to also stop by the two other locations in Carmel Valley and Encinitas.
Where: 5980 Village Way #B104, San Diego, CA 92130
> Find out more about TRE Boutique
Located in the artsy Cedros Design District, this boutique is known for their spectacular array of shoes and denim. It is also a great place to find that meaningful gift that serves a purpose. For the zen person in your life, the brand “Studio Penny Lane” offers a variety of mindful gifts. Some of my favorites are the Gratitude Apothecary Jars, used as an interactive tool for daily practices of gratitude, and the Breathe Collection jewelry line, emphasizing mindful sayings. A great hostess gift would be a set of the very chic “Heather Scott Home & Design” crystal candle holders.
Where: 143 S. Cedros Ave,
> Find out more about Cedros Soles
This homey boutique has kept fashion lovers coming back for years. Need to find a gift for that California-Bohemian inspired girl? I love their selection of dresses that fit this style perfectly. One of my favorite brands is “Flynnskye” maxi dresses which are comfortable and embody the California vibe. I am also a huge fan of the “Erin Fader” jewelry, especially the statement rings and wrap bracelets.
Where: 119 N. El Camino Real #D, Encinitas, CA 92024
> Find out more about Swirl Boutique
With the holidays near, complete your shopping list with some of San Diego’s unique one-stop-shop markets. Check out these five local markets featuring unique gifts for that special someone on your list.
Known as one of the most electric and colorful places in San Diego to search for the perfect holiday gift. With the flare of Old Mexico and an array of specialty items from Latin America and around the world, this is an ideal center to find the most unique gifts. From one-of-a-kind collectibles, to women’s fashions, hand-crafted jewelry, folk art, home decor, and unique kitchen utensils and accents, Bazaar del Mundo is one place you won’t want to miss.
Where: 4133 Taylor St., San Diego, CA 92110
> Find out more about Bazaar del Mundo
Photo by Luis Garcia.
This 7-day a week specialty market offers the cuisines and culture of San Diego showcasing the best of what this region has to offer. Liberty Public Market has it all; from prepared foods, a wine shop, beer, cocktails, desserts, an olive oil tasting area, fresh fish, a butcher shop, a cheese and gift shop, freshly brewed gourmet coffee, a fresh flower shop, a dog boutique, a retro candy shop, just to name a few. In addition to the quick eating options they also feature, the Mess Hall Restaurant, with a market-to-menu concept through the creation of three distinct eateries located within the dining hall: Mess Hall Bar (a seasonally driven menu), Pi Bar (wood fire pizzas, hand pies, and pot pies), and Grape Smuggler Bar (wine and tapas bar). There are also vendors with unique jewelry, sunglasses, watches and more. Be sure to enjoy the many options of unique outdoor seating.
Where: 2820 Historic Decatur Road, San Diego, CA 92106
> Find out more about Liberty Public Market
Moniker General is a new concept of retail and community space located in Point Loma’s Liberty Station. Encouraging an environment to not only shop for unique local items but to also have a venue where conversations happen while enjoying craft beer or having a carefully brewed cup of coffee. The space iintroduces shoppers to lifestyle brands featuring home goods, custom furniture, clothing, accessories, bicycles, surf boards, craft beer and coffee all in one unified store. These home-grown companies feature products that are known for their quality, aesthetic design, and functionality. This location is a place to connect while you shop.
Where: 2860 Sims Road, San Diego, CA 92106
> Find out more about Moniker General
Photo courtesy of Simply Local.
Simply Local San Diego, a merchant marketplace located in the urban neighborhood of North Park, was born out of the desire to give local artisans the space to showcase their creations. The space features over 55 locally owned businesses, offering everything from home goods, jewelry, accessories, clothing, skincare, artwork, food & beverage items, and more. This space is a one-stop-shop location.
Where: 3013 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104
> Find out more about Simply Local San Diego
Make Good
Photo courtesy of Make Good.
Shop from the works of over 45 local San Diego and Tijuana artisans at Make Good in the quaint area of South Park. Offering all handmade crafts, home goods, furniture, jewelry, accessories, artwork, soaps, and clothing, you will rarely see the same thing twice. Be sure to check out their rack of vintage and retro clothing. This location is a must-shop for individuality.
Where: 2207 Fern Street, San Diego, CA 92014
> Find out more about Make Good
Fashion Week San Diego ® is a traditional fashion week with 7 nights of events, 4 of which are open to the general public! Each night of #FWSD16 is completely unique, and has its own customized Events, Designers, and Themes.
Below is the breakdown of the Fashion Week San Diego 2016 Runway Shows:
FWSD16 | Art & Beauty Behind Fashion
Rather than clothing – Hair, Makeup & Art will be the focal point of this evening!
Where: Shane Bowden The Gallery – 7655 Girard Ave. La Jolla, CA 92038
When: Thursday, September 29th, 2016
Time: 6:00 to 9:30 PM
Runway Shows featuring 13 of the 26 Fashion Week San Diego 2016 Designers. Featured Designers include (in alphabetical order): B.JASH.I, Chavon Shree, DeAnnah Rae, Fuseik, GFASH Now, Killem with Chic, Laced with B, Luis Rivas, Margaret the Maker, Odd Bird Designs, P. Sangeeta, RACA Designs, Valleau Apparel.
Hosted by NBC 7 San Diego‘s Jodi Kodesh & Jeff Krapf.
This night will also include our annual Haute Dog Fashion Show where adoptable dogs from Rancho Coastal Humane Society wag their tales down the FWSD Runway in hopes of finding their forever homes!
Where: Hotel La Jolla – 7955 La Jolla Shores, La Jolla, CA 92037
When: Friday, September 30th
Time: 6:00 to 9:30 PM
Runway Shows featuring 13 of the 26 Fashion Week San Diego 2016 Designers. Featured Designers include (in alphabetical order): Albert Ray Collection, As Much Again, Bryan VaughnBerry, Circa Suzy Vintage Couture, Gloria Guerrero, Jaded Marie, LK Fashion, Pashn by Survi, Territa Torres, The Stylish Bisou, Theo Doro Fairyland, Timmithea, y-u-l-i-y-a.
Hosted by NBC 7 San Diego‘s Jodi Kodesh & Jeff Krapf.
Where: Hotel La Jolla – 7955 La Jolla Shores, La Jolla, CA 92037
When: Saturday, October 1st, 2016
Time: 6:00 to 9:30 PM
View and shop all the labels and FWSD16 Designer fashions that just debuted on the runway, including other FWSD Vendors & Partners. Annual Fashion Awards at 1:00 PM.
Where: La Valencia Hotel – 1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
When: Sunday, October 2nd, 2016
Time: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
PASSES ARE ALMOST SOLD OUT- Get yours HERE before its too late!
San Diego’s style can be defined in many ways; beachy-chic, urban-cool, modern, active, and effortless-elegance. The variation of styles is due to our fabulous weather, the unique regions, beauty, and our active lifestyle. If you want to capture a piece of San Diego style be sure to check out these boutiques.
Located in the hip area of South Park, Graffiti Beach is known for showcasing up-and-coming indie designers and artists. The boutique features clothing for women, men, and children, in addition to jewelry, accessories, home decor and art pieces. Each brand is handpicked by the owner for its unique product and brand mission. Picture beachy-chic meets urban-cool. I love the maxi dresses and chic beach cover-ups for women and the t-shirts and shorts for men!
Where: 2220 Fern St., San Diego, 92104
> Find out more about Graffiti Beach
With two great locations in the urban area of North Park and the other in La Jolla, Mimi & Red is known to locals for not breaking the bank. This women’s boutique carries that perfect laid back San Diego style with their selection of rompers, casual jumpsuits, dresses, statement necklaces, fun tops, and purses. Each location carries different items that represents their location.
Where:
– North Park – 3041 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92104
– La Jolla – 5680 La Jolla Blvd., La Jolla, CA 92037
> Find out more about Mimi & Red
Dedicate to carrying unique and special clothing lines for both women and men, Capricorn Boutique will inspire you to go home with a touch of our modern-chic effortless California style. I love the men’s button-up shirts and denim as well as the dresses, tops, rompers, lightweight jackets, and unique jewelry for women. The luxe laid-back looks will only inspire you to be the most stylish version of yourself.
Where: 5628 La Jolla Blvd., La Jolla, CA 92037
> Find out more about Capricorn Boutique
Nestled in the heart of the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, Little Apple’s soho-like space features polished ensembles for women, like both dressy and casual dresses, flowy pants, shorts, t-shirts, jewelry, purses, and sunglasses. The sister owners have lived in NYC as well as Southern California and has a style philosophy of blending the sophistication of NYC with the laid back style of the modern California girl. This boutique is a must-shop!
Where: 1980 Kettner Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101
> Find out more about Little Apple
Today, men are taking more of an interest with their own personal style. Preferring quick decisions, efficiency, and an ease to shopping, this list of men’s stores fits just that.
One of Fashion Valley’s newest addition to the luxury shopping center is John Varvatos. This 3,500 square foot edgy, music-inspired atmosphere combined with old world design offers a strong and distinct masculine point of view. The American menswear designer is known for his “perfectly imperfect” cool laidback aesthetic. His designs are very much in tune with San Diego’s Southern California’s lifestyle. This is the one-stop-shop to find tailored, unique, and edgy fashions for clothing, shoes, jewelry, accessories, cologne, and rock-n-roll photography artwork.
Where: 7007 Friars Rd, San Diego, CA 92108
> Find out more about John Varvatos
If a more classic yet modern style is more “you”, then visit The Ascot Shop. Celebrating 65 years in the village of La Jolla, this classic establishment has been dressing the well-to-do men of San Diego for generations. This family owned and operated shop carries brands and designers known for the best in quality, luxury, and value. Not only is this shop known for their dapper-style but they also offer some of the best services in town. With sales associates, stylists, and tailors right on-site, this is a one-stop-shop for the elegant man.
Where: 7750 Girard Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
> Find out more about The Ascot Shop
Since 2005, Mister B has been delivering quality European fashions for the American man. Covering all occasions from formal, business, and casual wear this store fulfills just that. One of their services is made-to-measure suits and shirts. With their highly trained staff taking the base measurements and “you” being able to customize your collar, thread & button color, placket design, etc; this shopping experience allows your true personality to be portrayed.
Where: 2670 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, CA 92014
> Find out more about Mister B
Junc.Life Boutique is a true gem located in the quaint neighborhood and shopping blocks of South Park. The owner and designer, carries men’s “focus pieces” that portrays an urban laid-back Southern California style. Think cool denim, button-ups, t-shirts, leather bags, and jewelry that are also from his own designs. He is inspired from growing up in Colorado with a mountain-cabin appeal yet offering sleek, organic and modern styles too. This is a great boutique for everyday urban-cool styles.
Where: 2209 Fern St., San Diego, CA 92104
> Find out more about Junc.Life Boutique
In the diverse and urban shopping area of North Park lies a very hip one-stop-shop store for men called, Aloha Sunday. Being a true neighborhood store they also have an international presence with their on-line shop. Featuring up-and-coming local designers and at reasonable prices this men’s clothing store is one not to miss. Aloha Sunday is an in-house clothing line in addition to featuring uncommon brands, many of which are made in the USA. Their goal is to create stylish, well-fitting clothes that are easily accessible.
Where: 3039 University Ave Suite A, San Diego, CA 92104
> Find out more about Aloha Sunday
Tis the season to shop, shop, shop in San Diego! With the holidays right around the corner, San Diego is the perfect destination to find that tailored-made holiday gift for your loved ones back home and maybe something special for yourself. Even though there is a multitude of options with malls and shopping centers, one way to find that one-of-a-kind gift is to shop at some of San Diego’s unique specialty boutiques.
One of the most eclectic and colorful places I like to search for the perfect holiday gift is at Bazaar Del Mundo Shops. With the flare of Old Mexico and an array of specialty items from Latin America and around the world, this is an ideal center to find the most unique gifts. From one-of-a-kind collectibles, to women’s fashions, hand-crafted jewelry, folk art, home decor, and unique kitchen utensils and accents, Bazaar del Mundo is one place you won’t want to miss.
Where: 4133 Taylor St, San Diego, CA 92110
> Find out more about Bazaar del Mundo
One of my go-to boutiques when it comes to the woman who loves jewelry. Based in the heart of Little Italy, Rosamariposa is the place to find endless options of imported jewelry, accessories, and Batik silks from around the world. The pieces from Indonesia, Bali, and India are to-die-for, and so affordable. You won’t be disappointed shopping here.
Where: 611 W. Fir St., San Diego, CA 92101
> Find out more about Rosamariposa
One of my favorite places to find distinctive holiday gifts. With an ever-changing inventory of cards, jewelry, journals, and one-of-a-kind home accessories, With Love Gift & Paperie is a true gem. I can always find something for that hard-to-shop-for person with the latest artsy coffee table book, luxurious smelling soap, candles, and holiday decorations.
Where: 1620 West Lewis Street, San Diego, CA 92103
> Find out more about With Love Gift & Paperie
Dolcetti Boutique, located in the heart of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, is the place to shop for that special guy, gal, or teen in your life. I love the assortment of stocking stuffers too. This is a one-stop-shop specializing in both women and men’s fashions, accessories, gift items, books, and jewelry. Extra bonus – Dolcetti features a full service salon with make-up artists!
Where: 635 5th Ave., San Diego, CA 92101
> Find out more about Dolcetti Boutique
The quaint French country-style boutique Maison En Provence is a must-see! Carrying such exquisite authentic items imported from France, such as pottery, linens, kitchen and home items, perfumes, books, scarves, kimonos, totes, children’s toys, soaps, and jewelry, just to name a few. Each item has been hand-selected by the husband and wife owners who are from the Provence region of France. This boutique is a must-shop for unique and special holiday gifts.
Where: 820 Fort Stockton Dr., San Diego, CA 92103
> Find out more about Maison En Provence
NApostol Couture at La Valencia Hotel-Photo Credit Fashion Week San Diego-ADallo Photography
Cameras ready prepare to flash! The fashionable glitterati are about to descend upon the posh area of La Jolla this weekend for Fashion Week San Diego, happening October 1-4.
If you’re one of the lucky fashionistas that got tickets early to this fab high-profile event, congrats! You’re in for a visual treat, with fashion shows set amidst one of the most beautiful, postcard-perfect backdrops in Southern California.
For those unable to get tix, or finagle a front row seat by the catwalk, fret not. La Jolla is San Diego’s most fashionable address any day of the year, and you’re likely to mix and mingle with models and fashion designers throughout La Jolla Village during the duration of Fashion Week. Where, you ask?
Following are Top 5 spots around La Jolla to rub shoulders with San Diego’s best and brightest fashion stars and fans:
Quynntessential Couture at La Valencia Hotel. Photo Credit: Fashion Week San Diego-ADallo Photography
La Valencia Hotel, the glamorous “Pink Lady of La Jolla,” is a perfect place to strike a pose and gander around the property, as it’s the host hotel for two fashion shows on October 1 and 4. It’s also right on Prospect Street, the “Rodeo Drive of San Diego” where fashion shoppers flock.
Wall Street, bisected by trendy Girard Ave. with its chic boutique shops, will be the site of a fabulous outdoor, open-sky runway (only in San Diego, where temps are still summer-like in the high 70s!) featuring two fashion shows by 24 designers on October 2 and 3.
The chic Murals of La Jolla can be found throughout La Jolla, including this one by artist Julian Opie.
Quick tip: For an artsy side trip on Wall St., check out the La Jolla Athenaeum Music & Arts Library with its eclectic art exhibitions, classical/jazz concerts, studio art classes and more. On display now is a Retrospective of Phel Steinmetz, regarded as a pioneer of conceptual art in California. Another must-see: The Athenaeum’s Murals of La Jolla, featuring internationally renowned artists.
La Plaza La Jolla, a new hot spot for shopping in the Village. Photo Credit: Paul Body
The new La Plaza La Jolla captures La Jolla’s luxe lifestyle with an upscale selection of San Diego-based boutique retailers and dining options. The eye-catching Spanish/Moroccan design adds an international flair, sure to attract the “it crowd” here for Fashion Week. Plus it’s perfectly located in the middle of the fashion action, at the corner of Wall St. and Girard Ave.
People watching is always in style at the hip new Catania restaurant high atop La Plaza La Jolla.
Grab lunch or dinner at the new Catania restaurant on the top floor of La Plaza La Jolla. You’ll not only enjoy sensational, seasonal Italian coastal cuisine, but also people watching, which is always in style.
Fashion-forward folks are sure to enjoy the La Jolla Design & Art District along upper Girard Ave. View popular art galleries like the new Monarch Arredon Contemporary Art, Joseph Bellows Gallery of photographic art and Quint Contemporary Art, featuring works by some of the biggest names in contemporary art.
La Jolla Art & Wine Festival is another must-see fall event in La Jolla, Oct. 10-11.
If you’re in San Diego after Fashion Week, be SURE to visit the prestigious La Jolla Art & Wine Festival on October 10-11 along Girard Ave. (between Prospect St. & Torrey Pines Rd.). The works of more than 150 artists from San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County, Baja and beyond will be on display. Plus there’s live entertainment, a gourmet marketplace, family art center and a wine and beer garden.
Cutting-edge fashion, eye-catching art, fine food and more… La Jolla is the place to see and be seen this fall! 🙂
Do you find yourself on a budget but still want to look stylish? On a mission to find that perfect maxi dress or unique piece of jewelry to add to your wardrobe that won’t break-the-bank? Look no further than these fabulous local boutiques!
Mimi & Red Birdrock, located in the charming neighborhood of La Jolla, features every must-have summer essential piece needed! There is a great selection of flowy and maxi dresses, swimsuits, cover-ups, statement necklaces and natural stone jewelry making this a must-shop place to check out! A second location is in North Park at, 3041 University Ave.
Where: 5680 La Jolla Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
> Find out more about Mimi & Red Birdrock
Swirl Boutique, situated in the quaint surfing community of Encinitas, represents that true California-chic vibe! I love this boutique due to the variety of clothing, jewelry, and accessories! They only carry local jewelry designers that each have a unique style of their own. Maybe a leather fringe purse, or the latest summer romper, kimono, or flowy bohemian pant is on your list? Then this boutique is one not to miss!
Where: 119-D N. El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024
> Find out about Swirl Boutique
Lolo Boutique, located downtown at The Headquarters at Seaport Village, is a great place to find that perfect summer colorful blouse or maybe a new dress for the Del Mar Races? I love how this boutique has everything sorted by item and color so shopping here is very easy to find that perfect ensemble. Additional Lolo Boutiques can be found at the Del Mar Highlands in Carmel Valley, the Camino Village Plaza in Encinitas, and on Girard Ave. in La Jolla.
Where: 789 W. Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101
> Find out more about Lolo Boutique
Rare Bloom Boutique, in the coastal community of Point Loma, features unique gifts, home goods, clothing, jewelry and accessories for that true coastal living! If you want that laid-back-beach-look be sure to try on their comfy-chic tops and tunics! Everything from handmade jewelry, delicious smelling soaps, home accessories, scarves, shorts, jeans, and casual dresses be sure to save some shopping time and check out this local favorite!
Where: 2841 Canon St., San Diego, CA 92106
> Find out more about Rare Bloom Boutique