10 Best Places to Shop in San Diego.

Melanie Sutrathada shares her top 10 favorite places to shop in San Diego, California.jpg

San Diego! The perfect destination for sunny weather, blue skies, and SHOPPING (duh!). Alright, alright, alright - I may be just the teensiest bit biased since I was born and raised there, but I have to say that San Diego really is one of the best places to get your shop on.  Whether you’re in the mood for seriously glam mega malls, vintage finds, or amazing local boutiques, this coastal city has an eclectic mix of shopping spots that cater to every style. While I wish that I could visit and style recap every store in the area for you, here are my 10 must-shop spots in San Diego to pick up your next #ootd.

1. Studio 12.20.

1891, 12925 El Camino Real J7, San Diego, CA 92130. 

Studio 12.20 is one of those places where you feel cooler even just walking into the store. (Like, could you imagine working there?!). If you have a gypsy heart and an eye for floral prints paired with fringe and floppy hats, Studio 12.20 is your ultimate San Diego shopping spot. This flagship location is THE pulse of West Coast boho-chic style. Plus, their Insta feed will give you all the feels.  

2. Stroll. 

2360 India St, San Diego, CA 92101.

A hidden gem in SD’s Little Italy neighborhood, Stroll is an eclectic boutique that’s the perfect mix of bohemian and beachy vibes. Talk about trend-savvy! This cozy boutique is known for its selection of vibrant colors and patterns and is also home to a number of locally hand-crafted pieces like this oh-so-adorable California charm necklace

3. La Loupe Vintage.

3337 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116.

Live out all of your best Girlboss closet fantasies as you sift through hundreds of vintage finds at La Loupe Vintage. Influenced by late 60s rock n’ roll vibes, this boutique is home to a carefully curated collection of modern vintage pieces. Bring your best shopping buddy and scope out your next festival find (because no passive aggressive Regina George comments are allowed)!

4. Everywhere in Fashion Valley Mall.

7007 Friars Rd, San Diego, CA 92108.

Fashion Valley Mall is best summed up in the words of the great Kreayshawn as “GUCCI, GUCCI, LOUIS, LOUIS, FENDI, FENDI, PRADA.”  If you haven’t guessed from the name, Fashion Valley is the shopping spot in San Diego where the pages of Vogue come to life. This mega mall is home to the city’s most luxe designer stores with some of your more affordable faves like Free People and Urban Outfitters in the mix (just check out this mall directory). Def make it a day trip with the girls as some of the biggest names in fashion like Chanel, Celine, and Tom Ford are all just walking distance apart. Fun fact: Fashion Valley Mall also has one of the biggest H&Ms in the country! Try not to get lost while you're stocking up on basics there.

5. Aloha Beach Club.

3036, 3039 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104.

If you loved Hollister as a teen (I still remember the allure of all the shirtless models standing in the doorways), you’re about to meet your new clothing mecca. Aloha Beach Club is famous for its large selection of one-of-a-kind pieces made in Hawaii at its sister outpost. The store single-handedly defines the city’s coastal style and is a local go-to when searching for gifts. I’m sure you’re going to want to break out the sea salt texture spray as you search for the perfect pineapple-themed accessory. 

6.  The Wild Dove.

740 Market Street, San Diego California 92101.

Soft, chic, and feminine, Wild Dove is a local fave boutique that embodies California girl style – a la Whitney Port! The store specializes in contemporary women’s fashion and Is full of amazing mules, wicker handbags, and flowy dresses that are guaranteed to make your closet Pinterest-perfect. Not to mention, I’m so eyeballing this perfect blush tone jumpsuit for my next brunch date. 

7. The Girl Can't Help It. 

3806 Grim Ave, San Diego, CA 92104.

Another vintage treasure in the North Park Shopping District,  The Girl Can’t Help is aptly named after the old Hollywood movie that inspired its style. Take a peek at the boutique’s Etsy’s page where you can find everything from mod 70’s jumpsuits to 50’s circle skirts.  Of course, any look from this store can best be accessorized with voluminous waves and bold lips. 

8. The Fabulous Rag Boutique.

845 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109.

Still looking for the ideal cocktail dress, that’s formal but you know, not that formal.  Look no further than The Fabulous Rag Boutique. Commonly, voted by locals as the top woman’s boutique in the city, the ‘Fab Rag’ is known for its large clothing that caters to every occasion from date night to weddings. I could spend all day in this fashion paradise trying on dresses and planning out outfits for my next blog photoshoot. 

9. Bubbles Boutique. 

226 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101.

I mean how could this list pass up a store by the name as Bubbles Boutique.  Just as cute as it sounds, Bubbles Boutique has developed its own unique atmosphere and style due to its extensive collaborations with local artists. If you’re unable to make the journey down to the Gas Lamps Quarters, don’t worry! The store offers a personal Facetime shopping experience, and you can schedule your appointment on the site! 

10. Mimi & Red.

3041 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104.

If you haven’t checked out the Yelp reviews lately, Mimi & Red boutique is another local hotspot… and is also home to the best boyfriend tees in town. Located in the heart of San Diego’s North Park Shopping District, Mimi & Red boosts a self-described hippie chic style. From deconstructed denim overalls to turquoise accessories you could totally rock at your 9-5, Mimi and Red has a bohemian flavor that’s perfect for your everyday wardrobe. 

Are you already dying over fashion lust?  Let me know what your favorite San Diego shopping destination is! Or did I miss your favorite? Comment below and let me know what your go-to San Diego shopping spot is.