Curator: Small Boutique, Large on (Local) Style


Boy, do I envy high school BFFs Stacy Rodgers and Deidre Nagayama: They recently opened Curator, a charming women's boutique, in Noe Valley. You see, my childhood bestie and I used to have a fantasy that we would have a store one day when we grew up. Wistful sigh.

Not only do these entrepreneurs co-own a shop, they have been collaborating on a fashion label for almost a decade. And, of course, it takes center stage in the store. Called She-bible, it's a fun and functional collection of dresses, skirts, tops and hoodies (mostly made of a soft and comfy Poyl/Rayon/Lycra blend) available in a range of hues. Stacy and Deidre like to say their pieces are for "girls who work hard and play hard," like themselves. Plus, all goods are sewn and printed in SF, the duo's beloved home.

Along with the versatile She-bible, the shop features complimentary knits, denim, accessories and gift items from other designers. So whether you're a local or just visiting, Curator is one teensy "exhibit," you'll want to take in. And walk out with.

The shop is located at 1767 Church Street @ Day Street; 415-970-9828.




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American Rag Cie: House of Hipdom

Whenever I am feeling like I need a shot of cool to inject into my wardrobe, one of the first places I head is American Rag Cie. Yes, the location is kinda odd–considering it's a palace of hipdom–but, still, I happily saunter over to Van Ness Ave, the city's main multi-lane drag lined with car dealerships and motels.

The back part of the cavernous space is filled with racks and racks of vintage clothing for men and women. But truth be told, I very rarely make it there. I focus all my attention on the fresh new goodies in the women's selection in the front, including shoes and accessories. Sharp-eyed buyers deserve kudos for their mah-velous merch selections, featuring a well-edited mix of pieces from cool labels like Chloe, Clu, Stella McCartney, Daryl K, Madison Marcus, Helmut Lang, and Current Elliott.

A selection of finer tees and designer jeans are always at the ready, as well.

And, guys, can get their fashion on, too. Same deal–hip styles and haute labels from around the globe a la Acne, Balmain, Comme des Garcon, John Varvatos, Paul Smith, Stussy, and Warriors for Radness.

American Rag Cie is located at 1305 Van Ness Avenue (near Sutter Street); 415-441-0537.

Join the Club: Help Haiti

In times like this, I say shop. For a cause. There are numerous retailers doing their part to contribute to Haiti's earthquake relief efforts. Now is the time to hop on the bandwagon and do or give whatever you can. Here's a quick roundup...

Spritz for a cause with Bond No. 9's The Scent of Peace. Through Valentine's Day, the perfumer (one of my faves) will be donating 10 percent of all sales of the fragrance to the Red Cross and directly to communities impacted by the earthquake. Buy online or at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Lauren Merkin, handbag label extraordinaire, is giving 25 percent of all purchases to the Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders, through the end of the month. Can't beat feel-good fashion. Shop and donate now.

Design Within Reach has already met its pledge to match donations up to $25K made on its website–so far that means $50K will be going to UNICEF. But the furniture retailer is still happily accepting your donations. Make help within reach.

Add some apps to your iPhone, Red Cross benefits–thanks to AppRelief. A group of software developers have come together to help Haiti by donating 100% of profits from a constantly growing number of fun apps (Running With Scissors, Charmed, BitFLIP, How am I Feeling?, etc.) Get to it.

Gallery of Jewels + Major Sale = Heaven

For me, accessories have always been the best way to express my creativity, and individuality. Give me a blank canvas, like a basic solid tee and classic jeans, and I'm in fashion heaven. Along with shoes, selecting the right earrings, bracelets, and necklace(s) are key. It must be done with a stylist's meticulous eye. Put everything together and, voila, killer outfit.

One of my favorite haunts for stocking up on new jewelry is Gallery of Jewels, a mini indie chain with a focus on limited-edition pieces from local and emerging designers. Through January 31, the retailer is holding its Annual Sale, offering 20 percent to 50 percent off most styles and designers. Now is the time to visit one of the 20-year-old's three locations (Pacific Heights, Noe Valley and Cow Hollow) and scope out new gems to make all your looks pop. You'll find everything from organic looking silver pieces to colorful fine gems and everything in between.

Better get shopping before I beat you to it. Gallery of Jewels shops are located at 4089 24th Street, 2115 Fillmore Street and 2101 Union Street.

Get the Boot: Three Styles I Want Now

I don't know about you but during the cold weather (yes, "cold" is a relative term in San Francisco), I am all about the boots: knee-highs, booties, cowboy boots, dressed-down, dressed-up, you name it. Although most of my collection is neutral in color, ever since I saw It's Complicated, I've been obsessing about finding a pair of purple boots like the ones the fantabulous Ms. Streep sported through the entire film. Sadly, I have yet to find "the ones."



However, there are several lookers that have caught my eye. Check 'em out:

Fiorentini + Baker Coy. This yummy, mid-calf platform boot with about a three-inch heel features a cool, exposed inside zip with O-ring pull . The Italian beauties come in several colors, but I'm gaga for the saturated blue. Available at Gimme Shoes.

Dolce Vita Hamilton Boot. A little biker, a lot rocker with a nice shot of flirty (thank you peep toe). The black leather, multi-buckle ankle boot with cutout vamp and chunky stacked heel is hot to trot. Available at Nordstrom.

Ascendling Link Boots. These flat (cognac) knee-hi boots are reminiscent of Loeffler Randall's signature boot. What sets this style apart is the chic chain-link and small studded tabs that crawl up the exterior of the sumptuous leather shaft. Available at Anthropologie.

P.S. Just bought the Blowfish booties pictured above. So comfy and cool–great with jeans and skirts. Thanks to a co-worker who had them first and happily shared the 411. (Yes, once in a blue moon, I'll pull an imitation-is-the sincerest-form-of-fashion-flattery. Smirk.)

AB Fits: Still a Style Leader After All These Years

As far as I'm concerned, AB Fits, a seriously cool boutique situated on upper Grant Avenue in North Beach, is an all-star SF retailer. For more than 20 years, the inviting, medium-sized shop has been catering to a hip (but not painfully so) clientele of guys and girls.

The store has been dealing in better denim and stocking labels from around the globe well before brands like Seven of All Mankind, Joe's and True Religion were even a thought in their designers' minds.The store and its sales staff have built a solid rep for personal service, satisfying even the most skeptical shoppers by fitting their unique body types with jeans that flatter. The brilliantly edited roster of denim brands includes AB Fits own label, Dope & Drakkar, Rogan, Ksubi, Notify, 5EP, PRPS and many more.

But AB Fits is far from a one-note wonder–an equally coveted collection of stylin' tees, sweaters, jackets and accessories to accompany all that delicious denim is well worth a visit in its own right.

Bonus: Once you shop, you can hit up one of North Beach's Italian bakeries or famed cafes. Cafe Trieste is a great place to start.

AB Fits is located at 1519 Grant Avenue; 415-982-5726.

What's Haute in SF This Week


The Sweetest Bite
: Mission Minis opens a storefront. These teensy treats are the best cupcakes I ever ate–and indisputable proof that good things really do come in small packages.

Indie Store Grand Opening: Survival Annex Shop Within a Shoppe, in the back space of Mission fave The Curiosity Shoppe. Load up on goodies from 30+local artists.

Bling Binge: BVLGARI's grand new 13,000-square-foot-store in Union Square features four floors worth of ogle-inducing sparklers, watches, and accessories in a palatial setting.

Viva la Vintage: Scope out serious vintage finds, from the 1930s on up, at the newly opened Bianca Starr in the Mission. A fashionable selection including top designers (Gucci, anyone?) and awesome accessories.

Muse Ten: All Handbags All the Time

For those addicted to sweets, Muse Ten boutique in Pac Heights is heaven. Of course, this being the Fashion District, I type of arm candy–not edible delights. Whether you horde hobos, collect clutches or salivate over shoulder bags, this gem of a shop is guaranteed gush-worthy. All credit to the sharp-eyed buyer, who curates the teensy space with high-quality, sumptuous (and eclectic) styles from emerging designers. No, same ol', same ol' here. Style individualists (like moi), rejoice!

Some of my fave labels inhabiting the sleek space include: Junior Drake, local darling (but not seen everywhere) 49 Square Miles, Olivia Harris (currently, I am ob-sessed with the Double Buckle Satchel in a pretty purple), and Rachel Nasvik. For those who prefer more familiar lbrands, you'll also find Gryson, Rebecca Minkoff, Foley & Corinna, Linea Pelle, Tressje, Orla Kiely and more.

Although you won't find "bargains" here, the unique offerings alone make purchasing a special investment piece well worth the cost. Add to that, knowledgeable, pleasant and non-pushy sales staff and it's a shopping orgasm. (You'll be on a sugar high for days.) One bit of inside advice: If your shoulder finds a soul mate–be it a chic top handle or elegant evening bag– snap it up! Otherwise, chances are she'll be long gone next time you visit.

Also, make sure to check out the online shop if you can't browse in person. Muse Ten is located at 1820 Fillmore Street @ Sutter Street: 415-922-6873.

Lia Kes Boutique Opens in Cow Hollow

She landed in San Francisco by way of New York by way of Israel. Say a stylish shalom to Lia Kes, an on-the-rise designer who recently opened up shop in town–and moved her studio and self here, as well.

This independent babe has come a long way since she first moved to Manhattan from Israel with a hundred bucks in her pocket and a serious dream. That was 10 years ago, and since then, her tiny T-shirt line has blossomed into a full on drool-worthy women's label. Over the years, Kes has collected hordes of celeb devotees–including Kate Hudson.

The sparkly new boutique features pieces from her fall and resort collections (and soon will be awash with fresh spring goodies). Kes is known for her sleek and chic silhouettes that perfectly tow the line between tailored and form fitting. Essentially, her frocks, tops, pants and skirts are simple in shape, versatile, flattering and always accompanied with edgy detail. Think bold exterior zippers, asymmetric hems, cool cutouts and beaded cuffs.

I have my eye on a killer LBD –short sleeved, a little above the knee, ruching through the bodice and a sexy cutout on one shoulder. Also salivating over her signature zipper-y leather jackets, especially this antique white one for spring. Me want.

Lia Kes is located at 3024 Fillmore Street @ Union Street; 415-829-2225.

In With the New: Classic Pieces Every Stylish Girl Should Own

Hopefully, you will take my New Year's Day advice and purge your closet to get 2010 off to a chic start. Once completed, you should be left with a lean inventory, the cream of the crop. Now, it's time to do an assessment and determine if you have a well-rounded wardrobe, filled with the essential (classic) pieces that every stylish woman should own. (Sprinkle in trendy and special occasion items at your discretion.)

If you are missing any of the must-owns on my list, I hereby give you permission to go shopping. Soon enough, you'll have a wardrobe comprised of stylish workhorses. Here's the list...

1 Simple black pump with medium heel

2 Dark wash straight-leg jeans

3 Classic white blouse

4 Black/gray pencil skirt

5 Classic trench coat with removable lining

6 Little black dress (unembellished)

7 Cashmere V-neck sweater

8 Black belt (skinny to medium in width)

9 Pretty print scarf

10 Quality white tee-shirt

11 Fitted black blazer

12 Silver/gold hoop earrings

13 Clutch in bold color and/or interesting texture

14 Ballet flats (black or neutral)

15 Black cardigan

Mix and match these items with other pieces in your closet. Remember, simply switching out accessories can give an outfit a totally different look. Become your own stylist and always pay attention to the little details. Then, strut into the New Year looking fabulously fetching!

The Perfectly Beachy Keen New Year's Day in SF

The best place to spend New Year's day isn't in the thick of Union Square or riding the trolley cars back and forth and back and forth (though that could be appealing if you are into the super-slow roller-coaster effect).

It's at Ocean Beach. The end of the line, folks -- where the land ends and the sea begins. A lovely lungful of fresh air and trot out to the glassy water's edge is the perfect way to spend the first day of the year in SF. You know it. I know it. The chanting Buddhists, joggers, elderly Russian and Chinese strollers, dog walkers, roller-skaters and cuddling tweens all know it.

Next? If I were me -- and whoa, guess what, I am! -- I'd head over to my new fave (hipster) cafe by the beach, Outerlands, out by the Mollusk surf shop and gallery, and nab me a hot ginger lemon apple cider. Mmmm. So cleansing and toxin-releasing yet yummy and soul-satisfying. What next -- a dutch pancake or Moroccan French toast? Hey, it's 2010 -- anything could happen.

Outerlands
4001 Judah St., SF
(415) 661-6140
outerlandssf.blogspot.com

Sparkle Tonight With These Fail-Safe Fashion Tips

I have a confession to make: I hate New Year's Eve. There's really no other night that holds so much pressure to have fun, be merry–and, of course, look like a gorgeous, stylish minx. Can't do much about the first two (the fun and merry part) but I can provide a few tips for creating a special look that will have all eyes on you when you make your entrance (even if that entrance is just you walking from your bedroom to the dining room)!

Whether you're going the jeans and tee route or with the can't-go-wrong LBD, these simple suggestions will kick up your look a notch:

Carry an over-sized clutch in a bold color or interesting texture.

Slip on a pair of metallic ankle booties or caged sandals in a wow! hue.

Pile on stacks and stacks of bangles (silver, gold, rhinestones, etc.). Don't wear any other jewelry.

Cinch your waist with a sparkly or bright belt, or even a pretty ribbon.

Wear a flowy scarf in a sassy print.

Slip on a funky hair accessory. Think feathers, bold colors, sparkles, bejeweled, etc.

Wear one statement piece of jewelry–substantial necklace, over-sized earrings or a cocktail ring or two.

Paint your nails in a festive shade: bright red, silver, gold, electric blue.

Contrast hard and soft. Going with a frilly frock? Add an edgy leather jacket. Sporting sleek jeans and sex-ay boots? Throw on a shrunken cardigan with feminine details. Get it?

Uh-oh, now I've got the itch to get dressed up and go out tonight. I'll plan on having a good time– not the best night of my life (smirk). OK, here's to an always-chic 2010!

Marmalade Boutique Sweetens Up Union Street



Sure, there's nothing like a zesty taste of Marmalade to start your day. Skip the English muffin and just make your way to the freshly opened boutique on Cow Hollow's shopping drag, Union Street, for your sweet treat.

The new girly boutique serves up a charming array of clothing, gifts and homewares in the former Sunhee Moon jewel-box space. (No worries–that San Francisco darling still has boutiques on Fillmore and 16th Streets.) Even though the store is small, it's filled with a well-edited selection of frocks, tops, sweaters, skirts, and baubles, candles, and frilly things of all sorts. The vibe of the merch ranges from romantic and vintage to bohemian and classic–definitely a bit of an Anthropologie-esque air about it. (Fab by me.)

However, what I truly love about Marmalade is that, unlike some other nearby shops (which shall remain nameless), virtually no item in the store is more than $100–and many goodies are significantly less. Plus an emphasis on local designers, fresh weekly inventory and sweet-as-pie salespeople means Marmalade is destined to become a dietary staple for savvy SF shoppers. Starting here.

The store is located at 2059 Union Street @ Webster Street; 415-673-9544.

Ring In the New Year With Kathy Kamei


OK, truth be told, I'm not really sure what Kathy Kamei will be doing on December 31. I do know that I will be flaunting one of her gorgeous rings on one of my freshly painted fingers (outfit TBD). The Marin-based designer's collection of shiny gold and silver rings, earrings, cuffs and necklaces are simple yet striking.

Although Kathy designs everything herself, artisans in Bali and Tuscany handcraft the gems. And every piece exudes a sense of Zen and calm, a sense of spirituality, really. Circles, discs and domes are key signatures.

When asked to describe the collection, Kathy says, " It's jewelry that celebrates and empowers women to be in their magnificence and that reflects their life experience." Her inspiration comes from her daughters. And, she adds, "Coming from a family of three girls, recognizing the plight of women and the unity that we all share. I use a technique that is hundreds of years old from Bali called armadillo and combine it with very lightweight and contemporized designs. I want my jewelry to be worn and be versatile–like our lives."

Kathy Kamei jewelry, a well-known quantity around these parts, is available at various boutiques in the area, including Heidi Says. The collection can also be purchased online.

Shop Sunhee Moon Clothing: Classics With a Punch of Cool

Designer Sunhee Moon graduated from Berkeley, studied art history in Italy, and traveled around India and Asia. A perfect education for a San Francisco fashion designer, doncha think? Decide for yourself by checking out the womenswear designs in her two charming storefronts in the Mission and Pac Heights.

I've been a fan for a while. Porquoi? Because Sunhee's designs are simple and sleek in silhouette, and most styles (skirts, sweaters, blouses, tunics, wrap and shirt dresses) come in a wider than normal range of flattering hues and fun prints. And the fit? Always spot on.

Sunhee basics, which will never go out of style, transition well from work to play. Plus, all the pieces easily mix and match with stuff from your own closet. The boutiques also get high marks for their flush selection of funky jewelry and accessories with a focus on local designers. Salespeople are friendly without an iota of hard sell.

Hmm, I've got the itch–I guess I know where I'm going tomorrow. I've had on my eye on this swell, kiwi-colored corduroy, A-line skirt for a while now...

Sunhee Moon stores are located at 3167 16th Street and 1833 Fillmore Street. Or shop online, where you can get a personal stylist to help you via web cam during store hours. Pret-ty cool.

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