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Where To Buy Your Next Holiday Party Outfit In San Francisco

(credit: Laurie Jo Miller Farr)

Before those holiday party invitations fill the mantle and the email inbox, some ladies like to think ahead to what they're going to wear. In addition to these South Bay, East Bay and North Bay shopping suggestions for cocktail dresses, consider a handful of San Francisco independently owned retailers whose shops showcase their great taste, easy elegance, a bit of holiday sparkle and a curated collection that stands out from department stores.

Luna Boutique
3490 Sacramento St.
San Francisco, CA 94118
(415) 359-0198
www.lunaboutiquesf.com

Luna Boutique, founded in 2010, is a survivor, thank goodness. Following a fire in the building of its original premises, Luna re-opened at a new location just a block or so away. In a new store at the corner of Laurel Street, Bay Area native and boutique owner Christina Spaulding curates a collection of niche designers that she says suit local lifestyle and tastes, are always well made, never cookie-cutter and won't be found all over the department store racks. Expect labels such as Halston Heritage, Tracey Reese, Milly, A.L.C. and more, plus a warm welcome from the staff and, quite often, a sweet dog.

Ambiance
3985 & 3989 24th St.
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 647-7144
www.ambiancesf.com

In appreciation of 15 years in business, the management of this four-location San Francisco brand has picked up a Certificate of Honor from City Hall to add to its mantle, already adorned with a bevy of best dress shop awards. When the occasion calls and the current closet needs a boost, visit the Haight, Marina, Noe or Inner Sunset addresses. You should only have to stop in at one to find something fun and reasonably priced from among hundreds of designers stocked. Shoppers are wise to take on the hunt when feeling energetic, as the racks of these stores are chock-a-block and the aisles can get pretty crowded.

Simply Chic
3038 Fillmore St.
San Francisco, CA 94123
(415) 775-2888
www.simplychicsf.com

Step in under the pastel pink awning off Union Street for one of the city's best and biggest collections of little black dresses, all grouped on their own rack. Upon glancing at the price tags, at a fraction of what they would normally be, is the moment when many shoppers realize that this is a high-end consignment shop. A well-curated selection in tip-top condition, the shop also has cocktail dresses arranged in all colors of the rainbow, designer heels and strappy sandals, jewelry and an array of nearly-new, mint condition, wait list-type handbags that those in the know already know about.

(credit: Laurie Jo Miller Farr)

Kisha Studio Fashion Boutique
210 Clement St.
San Francisco, CA 94118
(415) 422-0468
www.kishastudio.com

Owner/manager Cindy puts a big effort into the store's Facebook page, where the staff models the latest cute clothing. Regulars love seeing what's come in that's new and getting quick replies on queries about sizes and availability. These are not investment pieces, but great for young gals on a budget. This is one of the few places where you can actually find something for a price point of around $50. Casual is mixed in with office and party pieces. Customer service is very friendly, not pushy, and with the benefit of Cindy's trained eye, is a welcome and refreshing approach.

HeidiSays Collections
2426 Fillmore St.
San Francisco, CA 94115
(415) 749-0655
www.heidisays.com

Anybody who knows San Francisco boutique shopping knows HeidiSays, grouped together as a Fillmore Street fixture since 2000. Three shops are dedicated to casual, shoes and the curated collection featuring top name designers, so you're covered morning to night from top to bottom. Don't get your knickers in a twist when your closet says you have nothing to wear. DVF, Elizabeth and James, Theory, Tibi, Smythe and A.L.C. are some of the brands known to rescue many a damsel in distress on the eve of the party.

Laurie Jo Miller Farr loves walkable cities. A tourism industry professional and transplanted New Yorker by way of half-a-lifetime in London, she's writing about the best of the bay and beyond for Yahoo, USA Today, eHow, and on Examiner.com.


 

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