A Bay Area Gift Guide full of festive treats for all of your loved ones!
Posts filed under Shopping in SF
SF Shop Guide: Essentials at Modern Citizen
Megan and I always have our ears open for new brands and when they have a San Francisco connection, we are even more compelled to check them out. A few weeks ago I blogged about Everlane's new storefront in the Mission. It was so fun sharing some of my favorite picks from their collection, that when I heard about Modern Citizen I dragged Megan along to shop the store for our clients and blog readers. Our take? This may be your new destination for basics.
San Francisco Modern Utility Paired with Feminine Minimalism
This brand has been thoughtfully curated for a San Franciscan wardrobe but applies to anyone looking to freshen up their basics routine or add a modern feminine piece to their closet. Perhaps we have been living in the Bay Area too long, but finding a good quality $30 tee shirt (see here and here) with a flattering cut was refreshing. For certain pieces, we were giddy with happy sticker shock. The price points are sharp and the cotton and rayon blends are soft. From what we found they are still fine tuning their sizing consistency in certain pieces (we are tough critics). In chatting with the co-founder who happened to be manning the racks when we were shopping, most of the products are produced in China and a small number in LA. We would love to see that number flipped in the future but it also enables the reasonable pricing.
Accessories To Invest In
In addition to focusing on the key clothing pieces everyone should have in their wardrobe, Modern Citizen sells and manufactures a limited number of staple jewelry pieces that are 14 karate gold or sterling silver. If you are a jewelry minimalist who wants to invest a little more but not to the extent of fine jewelry, this is a great option to explore. Earrings range from $32 to $198. This fall tortoiseshell is having a moment so consider these hoops for a fashion statement or keep this simple and invest in this classic metal drop earring.
Hello August, Layer Us Up
Last Fall I invested in the J.Crew Sweater Blazer (see the story here) and have been possibly "over-wearing" it this year as a light jacket. When I tried on Modern Citizen's long Sweater Coat cardigan in store I was smitten. Longer cardigans are back in vogue this fall and this $92 cardigan is a great steal staple. The longer knee length and charcoal grey color transitions well from weekend to a casual office day. We paired the cardigan with the Brooke High Waisted Ponte Pants and the Lindy V-Neck tee for a sporty chic look.
Similar to my camel blazer, this item is dry clean only but if you take good care of it, it shouldn't require much upkeep. It's an acrylic, polyamide, and elastane blend so if you run warm during the day it might not be the best match for you. Modern Citizen does offer a lighter structured cardigan that hits at mid-thigh that could be a good alternative.
If you are looking for that Friday to Sunday outfit--consider Modern Citizen's Side Zip Cashmere Sweatshirt. This piece is as stylish as it is comfy. The hint of cashmere blended into the fabric makes it oh so soft and we love the side zipper that can be styled slightly open for warmer days. Pair it with light jeans or a fitted skirt now and enjoy it with work trousers or coated denim come fall/winter.
Stay Stylish,
K&M
Our Favorites:
Details: Modern Citizen Side-Zip Sweater $88, Everlane Kick Crop Jean $78, Cole Haan Pewter D'orsay Flats (similar in silver $68 on sale).
Featured
SF Shop Guide: Summer Shopping at Everlane
Last month I made an appointment to "Cut the Line" at our local Everlane shop on Valencia street and check out the summer collection. It is one of two new brick and mortar locations for the company (say goodbye to online returns). Megan and I have been watching this brand for several years--attending open houses at their studio space. We love the business concept but have never been sold on the fit. However, we are open-minded fashionista's and are willing to revisit a brand we want to believe in.
In short, I was extremely impressed with their current collection and the store experience. I actually had fun shopping! Perhaps it had something to do with the fact that my appointment was a 9:30 on a Saturday morning and I had the place to myself.
Are you curious how Megan and I shop solo? Well, today I'm taking you along for a behind the scenes view...
Stay Stylish,
K&M
Everlane Top Picks
ProTip: When visiting a new brand, be strategic in your shopping. Start by pulling the top styles you like and a few you don't. The goal is to get to know the fit. I pulled nearly every pant style they had in a size above and below by usual to get a sense of sizing grading. Once you have nailed down your "true size" then focus on the color that best works on you and your wardrobe. While sales people can be helpful, having all the sizes you need first will save you time in the long run.
Everlane Soft Cotton Square Crew $68 (I'm wearing a small in Poppy Red)
Who shops for sweaters in summer, I DO of course! If you are in need of a casual summer sweater that is comfy, breathable and still upbeat for the season this is it. Wearing black in June and July only adds to the misery of our SF climate. This fun pop of color was so popular I actually passed this sweater to a fellow patron in the dressing room...yes I will occasionally style others on the fly. This color has since sold out, but they have a slew of other amazing colors.
Everlane Kick Crop Jean $78 in the color Bone
Shopping for white summer jeans can be an exercise in humility. The shopping experience is akin to bathing suit shopping depending on fabric, cut and dreaded dressing room lighting. Luckily, Everlane is a step ahead with dressing rooms that are filled with soft natural light thanks to well placed skylights. The fabric on these bone colored jeans has the right about of thickness to support and smooth. The cut of the high-rise kick crop pant is clean with a playful flair. I especially apprecited the raw hem for a touch of modernity.
Protip: For these high rise jeans consider sizing down to maintain a perfect fit
Everlane Wide Leg Crop Pant $68 (Front shot shown in Ochre) and Everlane Wide Leg Crop Utility Cargo Pant $68 (Back shot shown in Surplus).
These sister styles are exactly what you want on a Saturday morning! Super comfy with a sprinkle of style. I preferred the Wide Leg Crop Utility Cargo pant with back patch pockets and front pocket detail. These styles run large, so size down and consider the stretch impact. The smallest size in store was still a little big on me that I decided to pass on these (for now). If I purchased either of these crops I would have altered them to two inches above my ankle for summer.
ProTip: Everlane does not provide in store alterations so make sure you have your local tailor on call.
Everlane Denim Skirt $58, Indigo
Denim skirts have cycled in and out of my wardrobe over the years. This summer they are back and I love the super dark indigo versions. When I spotted this one in the shop I gave it a try and was pleasantly surprised by the fit. However, the length is a little short for everyday or work use that I left it behind. If we lived in a warmer climate I may have considered it.
Protip: When trying on skirts, dresses or slacks make sure you have a seat and review the fit while seated.
Everlane The Work Pant Ankle, $50 (shown in Ochre, purchased Black)
These pants are two legged miracle workers! I've put many a client into Rag and Bone slacks for work and have been saving up for a pair of my own. However, once I tried these on and saw the $50 price tag, I knew I needed to test them out. They may be the most comfortable work pants I have ever owned. While the fabric is not as thick and high quality as Rag and Bone, the high rise fit gives the right amount of smooth support and stretch. I ended up purchasing these in black to wear year round and will post an update on how they hold up in months to come.
Outfit Details: Vince Striped Tie Back Sweater, $177, Sam Edelman Floral Espadrilles $22 (on sale and they run about a 1/2 size big), Everlane Work Pants in Ochre $50
Painted Ladies: Our Favorite Nail Salons In San Francisco
A few months ago Megan and I blogged that we were taking a beauty detox and letting our nails go nude for a bit. I enjoyed taking a little more time to nourish my nails and continued the detox for two and a half months. After a long week at a photo shoot and a calendar full of upcoming shopping trips, this week I decided to treat myself to a manicure and paint my nails for the first time this year. While I loved the extended break, it feels good to be polished again.
Over the years Megan and I have had our fair share of experiences at local salons. Because we consider it a treat, we appreciate when a salon will go the extra mile to make you feel pampered and keep their space spotless. Here is a list of our current favorite salons in the city. If you are looking for our favorite "healthy" nail salons you can cross reference them here.
Stay Stylish,
K+M
The List
Parlor Minispa (Russian Hill)
2418 Polk Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
If you are looking for cute ambiance and a zen approach to beauty you'll love this spot.
Polish (Richmond District)
301 Cornwall St
San Francisco CA 94118
A new kid on the nail scene, this sweet salon is tucked away on a neighborhood street.
Sugar Coat (Lower Nob Hill/Union Square)
619 Post St
San Francisco, CA 94109
A short walk from Union Square, this salon is lower on the pamper scale, but consistently delivers the best (and more affordable) gel nail treatments.
Silk Day Spa (Lower Pac Heights)
1425 Franklin St
San Francisco, CA 94109
A classic that balances chic polishes with pampering.
LuxSF (Hayes Valley)
490 Hayes St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
Perfectly situated in Hayes Valley this "Healthy" salon is a little more expensive than your average experience but the selection of non-toxic polishes is excellent.
Featured
Timeless: The Best Vintage and Consignment Shops in SF
Last week while traveling in Colorado, I picked up this fun Cynthia Steffe dress at an amazing consignment shop (it was a mere $38 on sale).
If you make it to Denver, be sure to stop by Common Threads on Pearl street. They have one of the best selections of designers I've seen at great prices.
The experience made think of all the wonderful consignment shops we have in San Francisco. Great fashion is always in style and it's even sweeter when it's a bargain.
At Canvas we each have our favorite spots to shop. So we thought we would share the best vintage and consignment shops in San Francisco--according to our team. As a plus, I've included a few tips to ensure your next shopping trip is a success.
Stay Stylish,
K+M+D
Keep Your Expectations In Check
The key to a great consignment/vintage experience is having no expectations. It really is the luck of the draw and I've been to plenty of the below shops and walked out empty handed. Make sure you get on a store's mailing list so you know when sales start and inventory is fresh.
Know Your Brands
One thing that can make a consignment shopping trip more successful is to know your brands. Having a baseline knowledge of the top current brands and best designer brands will help you quickly determine the value of a piece. Look at the label, check for wear and tear, and ask yourself how you'll wear it. If you are unsure on the price do a quick brand search online or ask a sales person for help.
Only Buy What Fits (or can be easily altered)
Beyond knowing the best quality designer brands, it's important to know what ones work well for your body type. Sizing is not consistent from brand to brand so I often look at racks a size above and below my normal number.
Β
The Best Consignment Boutiques in San Francisco
1. Sui Generis, 2147 Union St, SF
This Cow Hollow consignment shop carries designer clothes, bags and accessories for women. All of the pieces are in never-worn or almost pristine condition and the staff could not be more friendly or knowledgeable. For menswear, check out their Castro location.
2. Real Real
Ok this technically isn't located in SF, but they definitely deserve a mention. Megan's scored everything from a Chloe boyfriend cardigan to a DVF silk blouse both for under $100. It takes some time to sort through the site and items only stay in your cart for 10 minutes, but it's worth it for the amazing finds, current trends and awesome prices.
3. Crossroads (Fillmore location) 1901 Fillmore St, SF
This Fillmore street location is a diamond in the rough. The buyers are fierce and the shop has started carrying more designer pieces and a few direct from vendor goods. Kim loves their denim collection and has picked up AG jeans for $34 here.
4. Goodbyes, 3464 Sacramento St, SF
Upmarket pre-owned designer duds for men, including suits, accessories & shoes, all rolled into a tiny shop. We love the old world charm of this place for guys and appreciate that the women's store is just across the street.
5. Cris, 2056 Polk St, SF
Kimberly loves this spot for their unique items with European flair. The windows are always dressed with beautiful curated looks that are a reason alone to stop in. Check out both sides of the shop for designer pieces or contemporary styles.
6. Polk-a-Dot Consignment, 553 Polk St, SF
Tucked away on Polk St., hidden among the restaurants and bars, Polk-a-Dot Consignment offers high end pieces at amazing prices. Since lower Polk is not a typical shopping street, Devon scouted this great find for deals on quality goods. When the ladies of Nob Hill and Pacific Heights say goodbye to their luxury wears, this is where they go.
Featured
Shop Small Saturday: Our Favorite Spots
As many of our friends and clients know we are big supporters of shopping small and keeping local when you can. This year we are continuing our support of keeping Thanksgiving for time with loved ones. Enjoy your holiday weekend and if you are feeling the draw to start shopping--stay local this Saturday!
Here is a list of our favorite places to shop local in Hayes Valley, just be sure to check with stores to see if they will be open special hours.
Stay Stylish,
K&M
Β
Local Shops in Hayes Valley
- 522 Octavia St, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Urban Prep Boutique for men and women curated with fun pieces and beautiful jewelry
- 541 Hayes St. San Francisco, CA 94102
- Elegant and refined women's boutique that balanced urban with chic
- 498 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Casual Cool California threads with a lived in feel
- 460 Gough St. San Francisco, CA 94102
- High end menswear boutique specializing in high quality trendy pieces
- 411 Hayes St. San Francisco, CA 94102
- High end boutique specializing in that SF cool vibe
- 437 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Eco conscious and French inspired soft knits and wovens
- 541 Octavia St. San Francisco, CA
- Find a unique local souvenir at this new addition to Hayes. The shop is curated with handmade California wares and jewelry from golden state artists.
Local Shops on Fillmore
- 2119 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115
- Inventive fresh styles with an ecletic urban edge
- 2426 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115
- Upscale boutique with plenty of contemporary designers and jewelry
- 2416 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115
- Fashion-forward women's shoe shop showcasing a line of luxury, leather footwear crafted in Spain.
Maker Monday: Lots To See At Seldom Seen
Meet the "New-ish" Kid on Block
Hayes Valley has quickly become a shopping destination for men and women craving niche brands and cool finds. This past week we paid a visit to Seldom Seen, the 9-month old boutique that specializes in connecting it's customers with established brands they love (such as Kitsune) and growing brands they believe in (if you haven't heard of Hope, you'll want to!).
Bringing Two Looks To One Platform
Seldom Seen beautifully combines both men's and women's urban pieces with more traditional styles. What was originally intended to be an online shopping destination, quickly became a brick and mortar store when Daniel Lee and Natasha Wong, the founders of Seldom Seen, saw opportunity to bring "the Urban Prep lifestyle" to one of San Francisco's hottest shopping neighborhoods. And we have to say, it's working for them!
A Little For Her. A Little For Him.
Next time you are in the neighborhood, stop by and pay Seldom Seen a visit at 522 Octavia Street. We fell in love with their fold over clutches, ultra-cool t-shirts and couldn't seem to pull ourselves away from their men's button-down flannels, which had a beyond-incredible soft hand feel. Tell them Kimberly and Megan sent you!
Stay Stylish,
K&M
