This post was written by Jazmine Quaralte, Main Street Launch’s Business Outreach Intern.
When it comes to style in Oaktown, we’ve got your wardrobe and your accessories covered from head to toe. We gathered the leading trendsetter boutiques in the city to shop for your new summer looks!
Fruitvale
Fruitvale is flowing with colorful people and unique cultures, both of which influence the local business scene, making this neighborhood a great place to spend some time shopping.
Chicas Fresas
If you’re shopping on a budget, Chicas Fresas is the way to go! They offer the latest fashion without hurting your wallet. We recommend their fun and playful summer steals as well as a few date-night grabs. This is the perfect place to get unique accessories to dress up your current wardrobe.
Bonus: Say you saw their Facebook page and receive a special discount!
4001 International Blvd | (510) 479-1891
Adalynn’s Fiesta Latina
Their primary focus is mixing the beauty of leather with today’s styles and trends. You will find the uniqueness and quality of leather to match exactly what you are looking for. While you are waiting for your custom made keychain, belt, or shoes to be made, browse their beautiful selection of pottery, kitchenware, spices, art, and apparel. Come down to this incredible Mexican marketplace and immerse yourself in this tastefully handcrafted quality leather.
3305 International Blvd | (510) 460-2148
Elizabeth’s Fashion
This shop has a variety of formal wear options. Elizabeth’s Fashion is a locally owned business with international fashion sensibilities, all at a very affordable price point. This funky and fun boutique will have the perfect dress for you, whether it is for a wedding, quinceanera or date night! Head here to score some of the best finds on International Blvd.
3642 International Blvd | (510) 532-6777
Kadan Boutique
With an eclectic assortment of both casual and date-night wear — even some looks to color up the office — Kadan Boutique offers a great selection of clothing affordable prices for everyone!
1247 International Blvd | (510) 816-5039
Rockridge
Rockridge is a great neighborhood to shop, walk, and eat around with its vibrant and versatile charm. This district is filled with specialty shops that you can’t normally find in other Oakland neighborhoods.
Bella Vita
For the chic-meets-trendy upbeat look, stop by Bella Vita. This boutique offers fun summer dresses as well as cocktail party options. This is a great place to step up your accessory game and find a few playful, off-the-beaten-path designers such as Emily and Fin, Ban.do, and Modaspia.
5511 College Ave | (510) 653-1639
Crush On College
This shop provides you with a unique and personalized experience when shopping for your perfect summer look! They offer brands like Free People, Sanctuary, BB Dakota, Oaklandish, and Joe’s Jeans. Their adorable and affordable dresses, rompers, jeans, and accessories are the perfect match for looking sharp on a hot summer day in the Bay Area!
5523 College Ave | (510) 653-1400
Lesley Evers
Check out Lesley Evers on College Ave in the heart of Rockridge— a must-stop shop for the flirty dressaholic. This place hits all the marks for style and charm. Update your summer dresses and rompers here!
5501 College Ave | 510-595-7600
Hawthorne Boutique
Hawthorne offers a curated selection and aesthetics that keep you on-trend. Check out their selection of dresses, rompers, chunky sweaters, comfy leather shoes and other well made essentials. After all, summer in the Bay Area sometimes requires warm clothing!
5854 College Avenue | (510) 594-8380
Temescal
Temescal offers warm and inviting alleys to pedestrians and cyclists. The neighborhood is a great host to an amazing mix of businesses where meandering and wandering is the best way to see its beauty.
Minds Eye Vintage
This trendsetter has an edgy feel, and when the pieces are more thoughtful than dusty, it’s a win. Minds Eye Vintage creates its own adorable lookbooks, and mixes found pieces with some nicer things, so you’re not just sifting through piles of old t-shirts. This Temescal Alley shop restocks constantly and hosts regular sales where vintage lovers can score serious deals.
484 49th St | (510) 529-6519
Ali Golden
This shop gives women in the Bay Area that seemingly effortless, easygoing-but-polished look. As a designer, Ali makes tunics, dresses, jumpsuits, pants, and sweaters so versatile that they’re perfect for every season!
482 49th St | (510) 904-4556
Dandelion Post
Clothing here is all made or designed in the USA! Dandelion Post allows you to be comfy in their everyday style with a hint of European flare! Their wonderful array of chic, and versatile clothing for every woman’s style.
421 40th St | (510) 858-3742
Piedmont Avenue
Piedmont Avenue has a substantial amount of antiques and vintage shops that will allow you to shop til you drop. The neighborhood’s extensive list of cafes, bookstores, and boutiques makes it almost impossible to leave.
Rare Bird
Rare Bird is more than just a vintage shop! Here you will find local designers for women, men, and children. They own a wide selection of recycled gifts and home decor. Many Oakland natives are attracted by their creative energy to participate in their art workshops. At Rare Bird, you get a 2-for-1 deal by being able to shop and join an awesome activity to learn something new! You will feel their enthusiasm the minute you walk through their doors.
3883 Piedmont Ave | (510) 653-2473
Mercy Vintage
This shop is home adorable vintage daywear, cocktail dresses, loungewear, and accessories from the 1920s. It has a well curated selection of designer fashion from the Prohibition Era. If you are on the hunt for funky, folksy, and fabulous, chances are you can find it here! It’s hard to leave the place empty handed.
4188 Piedmont Ave | (510) 654-5599
Good Stock
Owner Dana Olsen makes sure her inventory is filled with only the best handmade accessories and beauty products for women. Their accessories merge feminism with fashion. Whether it is a handbag, a bracelet, or sunglasses, Good Stock makes a great boutique for gift shopping (and maybe getting a little something special for yourself)!
4198 Piedmont Ave | (510) 653-8518
Resurrect
This lovely, independently owned clothing and gift boutique celebrates small and independent makers. Their store carries clothes, crafts, and apothecary made by over 75 local and regional artisan designers. Garments can be found in a variety of styles and range in size from xx-small to xx-large, so no matter what your size, you are likely to find several unique and flattering items that adhere to your personal tastes!
4135 Piedmont Ave | (510) 653-8716
