Over the last decade, San Diego has seen its fashion retail scene surge. Today San Diego can boast everything from malls to trendy downtown strips, to eclectic neighborhood clothing boutiques. Fashion Valley Mall now offers a collection of exclusive stores like Jimmy Choo, Karen Millen, Hermes, Gucci, Luis Vuitton and James Perse.
Along with high-end shopping experiences, there are a number of small clothing boutiques to be found all over San Diego. They can offer some of the city’s best finds. If you’re thinking of a SoCal vacation this October, you should consider San Diego. What you save on San Diego airfare you can splurge on a shopping expedition that includes some of the city’s finest clothing boutiques.
I have five picks of the must-shop-til-you-drop boutiques in San Diego. There are also three boutiques listed here that are currently offering special discounts to our readers.
1. Cecilia Boutique – Mission Hills
One of my favorite areas in San Diego is Mission Hills. It is here that you will find one of my favorite boutiques: Cecilia Boutique. As soon as you walk in, you know you’ve discovered something very special. Elizabeth, the owner, takes pride in all of the pieces she sells in her shop. She is a personal shopper. If you’re not entirely sure what goes best with what, she can be on hand to provide expert advice. Known for carrying quality brands (gotta love my Joe’s!), local designer jewelry and pieces you’ll get complimented on for years to come, Cecilia Boutique is definitely one you cannot afford to skip on your San Diego shopping spree.
“Fashion in San Diego is unique. We all have our own style. With San Diego being full of people from all over, we get the best in fashion from coast to coast. Everyone takes pieces of their fashion style, and revamps them to fit our “non-season” seasons here in SD. We are lucky to have a relaxed feel in high-end fashion. San Diego sees everything from the girl in a no name maxi and flip flops, to a girl in head to toe labels. We get the best of both worlds!” – Elizabeth Leffler-Agia, Owner of Cecilia Boutique
Special to our readers: Mention this article and receive 15% off any regular price item when you visit Cecilia Boutique before October 31, 2011 (excludes sale items)!
2. Vocabulary – Little Italy
Just east of Little Italy is a little gem of a store called Vocabulary Boutique. While it is on the smaller side, Vocabulary does not disappoint. This boutique sells mostly women’s clothing, but it also carries men’s and baby clothes. Their baby clothing and accessories are to die for! Ladies, you’ll find a fair share of colorful and airy tops, darling dresses, denim and delectable scented candles. Prices are reasonable and mostly range from $50-$120. Vocabulary is located near to Pappalecco, which is famous in SD for its gelato. After you’ve picked up something fabulous at Volcabulary, make sure you pick up something delicious at Pappalecco.
Special to our readers: Mention this article and receive 15% off any regular price item when you visit Vocabulary before October 31, 2011 (excludes sale items)!
3. Eden – Downtown
Enjoying some daytime drinks in the historic Gaslamp Quarter? Pop on over to Eden Boutique and you’ll be able to pump up your wardrobe in minutes. It doesn’t take long to find pieces that are both versatile and trendy while being reasonably priced. At this recently opened store you will find brands like Collective Concepts, LA Made and smaller labels. You will find unique pieces that are great for an event or a special night out. This garden-inspired boutique sells everything from dresses and denim, to jewelry, purses and shoes.
4. Club Paris Boutique – Coronado
While it doesn’t come with its own Eiffel Tower, Club Paris Boutique is a little store that is able to bring the alluring feel of Paris to San Diego! Selling everything from darling blouses and pants, to accessories like scarves and jewelry, Club Paris is a European-inspired boutique that is located on Coronado Island. There is something for everyone here. Expect a little sticker shock, as this boutique is a bit on the pricey side. I didn’t find much for under $100 there, but then adding some French style to your wardrobe makes it totally worth it.
5. Dolcetti Boutique – Downtown
Located smack-dab in the center of the Gaslamp Quarter, Dolcetti carries such brands as Trinity, Rich & Skinny and Collective Concepts. It is the perfect store to find that weekend-getaway outfit! The staff there also wears the clothes they sell. I bought a Trinity top after I saw one of sisters (they are the owners) wearing it. I immediately fell in love with it and had to have it (such a sucker!). You’ll find everything from tops for going out, to coastal-causal wear. I loved their maxi dress selection! If you need to get your roots touched up, they have a hair salon upstairs! It’s your one-stop shop for all your beauty and style needs!
“Dolcetti Boutique is the newest style and fashion headquarters in San Diego, offering unique and affordable shopping for all your needs!” – Natalie Taylor, Owner of Dolcetti Boutique
Special to our readers:
Mention this article and receive 15% off any regular price item when you visit Dolcetti Boutique before October 31, 2011 (excludes sale items)!
Be sure to take advantage of these special offers from some of San Diego’s finest boutiques! Whether you are a local fashionista, or a visiting style maven — happy shopping!
About Sarah C.