Classic San Diego Boutiques for Timeless Style

Make new friends, but keep the old ones. This is a relevant saying for many aspects of our daily lives.

For instance, the thrill of a new San Diego boutique may be exciting, but the familiar and loyal shop, that has lasted beyond the “it” period, truly has our hearts… and our money.

Over the years, so many boutiques have come and gone, from Carmel Valley to Ocean Beach, first gifting us with trendy finds, but closing up shop before the next season comes. Then there are the signature boutiques still standing strong after many years that we can always depend on for timeless style and substance.

Following an incredibly tough economic year that claimed new and old shops alike, I am particularly impressed with this selection of long-standing boutiques. To stay in the industry for so many years is a true sign of good taste and sharp instincts. After all, those new boutiques may be silver, but these classic San Diego shops are gold, and their stock is up. Discover five classic and cool clothing boutiques you should already know about.

Let’s Go – Since 1986 Let’s Go in La Jolla has been providing hip men and women with fashion-forward duds. Betsey Johnson and Robert Graham are a few of the staple designers in the store now, but you can only imagine the gotta-have labels that have hung is this store over twenty-four years. I'm sure this shop has seen its share of OMG looks, especially during the end of the eighties.

Gone Bananas – Mission Beach browsers have discovered their flattering bathing suits for thirty years at Gone Bananas. Like many stores that have lasted so long, Gone Bananas is always delivering fresh merchandise. They are fully focused on bringing you cutting-edge updates and news from the bikini world and beyond. In fact, I remember some years ago when Gone Bananas was the only bathing suit boutique that carries thong bikini bottoms. That’s my kind of store.

Encore – This 10,000 square foot emporium in La Jolla has been filled with fine European and American gently-worn designer apparel and accessories since 1991. Encore has been referred to as the most unique and elegant shop of its kind for ladies and gentlemen and has received numerous awards including finest resale store by the San Diego Chamber of Commerce and winner of the prestigious Golden Hanger Award. They like to say that their clothing has a prior life that echoes the taste and sophistication of the boutique and clientele, at a very gentle price. Plus the eco-conscious recycling aspect is always a plus for shoppers.

Dreamgirls – This sandy-chic clothing and accessories store is located just steps away from the playful waves of Ocean Beach. By offering a wide variety of jeans, tops, skirts, dresses, shoes, purses, rings, hats, belts, sunglasses, and lingerie, Dreamgirls has been dressing budget-minded fashionistas from head to toe-ring for twenty-seven years now. “Our professionally trained staff provide every customer with superior personal service. That’s what sets us apart and makes your shopping experience exceptional,” says owner Bridget McGirr.

Tobi Blatt – If you have ever met Tobi Blatt, you would know this woman means business. Her self-titled boutique has been the most popular clothing shop in Carmel Valley since she opened the doors in 1996. Even though she had to close shop on one of her locations, Tobi is still thriving with a thorough selection of men and women’s clothing. Made popular by her eye for bedazzled goodies as well as simpler looks, Tobi Blatt has a loyal clientele in her spacious boutique that appeals to a range of age and taste.

Discover more style trends in our shopping blog, and find all the best local boutiques. For more fashion advice or a wardrobe consultation with a personal stylist, visit vanessavaliente.com.