A beginner’s guide to shopping locally in San Francisco with a few of my favorite spots
Kamperett
If you are looking for something special, Kamperett is the place to go. These beautiful, unique dresses are designed and crafted in the Mission drawing inspiration from vintage pieces and the designers’ own histories. Dresses have exquisite movement and are often designed to be worn more than one way, making them a great investment. Kamperett also develops the occasional capsule collection with ready-to-wear basics like cotton poplin t-shirt dresses or swimsuits. Note that shopping requires an appointment.
Freda Salvador
These fun, everyday shoes and accessories are designed in San Francisco and hand crafted in Spain. The quality is excellent and designs are basic without feeling boring.
Trove
Trove is an amazing new vintage store on the main square in Sonoma (ok, it’s not in San Francisco, but worth the hour-long drive). The co-owners left San Francisco during the COVID pandemic and maintained many of their ties to the city, now hosting pop-ups with brands like Freda Salvador. Trove is a fun space with a curated collection of classics, like Levi’s 501s, as well as more upscale labels, like Yves Saint Laurent. They also stock jewelry, records, and kids’ clothing!
Wasteland
Wasteland looks like just another vintage shop on Haight Street, but it is so much better. The clothing is in excellent condition and the shop carries a range of important designers, all with a little bit of an edge. Check out Wasteland for everything from basics to gala dresses.
McMullen
Owner Sherri McMullen is world renowned for both her taste and her support for emerging designers of color, such as Christopher John Rogers and Diotima. She recently closed her Oakland flagship and has moved to San Francisco, which is our gain. Check out McMullen for both everyday wear and special occasions. Note that the price point is on the high side, but you can get some good deals in her sales and and some items, like bathing suits, are pretty reasonable.
Everlane
Everlane started and is headquartered in San Francisco with a storefront in the Mission. And it turns out they are just as ethical as they purport to be - Remake cites Everlane as one of the highest major brands in ethical fashion in its most recent report. I find that Everlane’s quality is actually a bit hit-or-miss, particularly with cotton items (t-shirts, dresses). But they are generally a good bet for basics that lean trendy at an affordable price point.