Localeur’s Guide to Shopping Local
What’s your stance on retail therapy? Does the idea of putting your woes on hold – if only momentarily – by indulging in a shopping experience of any magnitude feel like it could be just what you need? It’s not for everyone, and it’s certainly not a stand-in for actual therapy. But anybody who’s felt the small measure of joy that rises up when you select the perfect gift for a loved one, or when you spot the handmade item you’ll treasure forever, knows there’s something about shopping that puts a spring back in one’s step. (Doubly so, if you’re shopping the latest sneaker drop.)
The global pandemic made 2020 an especially challenging year for business owners, and when big-box and corporate retail brands struggle, it's even more obvious that small, local businesses need a helping hand. So whether your budget is 10 bucks or sky-high – and whether you’re shopping on the go or on the couch – we think a well-timed respite of consumerism is the surest way to a mood boost with benefits. That’s why we’re sharing some of our favorite local boutiques from around the world with you.
There’s more where this came from, too; subscribe to Localeur to see more shopping recs in 200 cities.
COWBOOKS
Tokyo, Japan
Along the Nakameguro River you’ll find a small bookstore that announces its presence with a silver wall and a red neon headlight. Almost all of the books for sale inside are written in Japanese, but there are exceptions, and the shop also sells masterpieces from old to new. Sitting on a comfortable chair in the store and gazing at the riverside, cup of coffee in hand, is an excellent way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Irish Design Shop
Dublin, Ireland
The Irish Design Shop is exactly what it says on the tin: a hub of Irish craft and design and a truly special place to pick up a unique and thoughtful gift. The store stocks a range of Irish homeware, jewelry, books, illustration prints, hats, scarves, ceramics… you get the idea. All products come from around the country, so their transportation involves very little environmental impact. Upstairs there’s even a functioning jeweler's workbench where customers can see pieces in production.
Kith
Brooklyn, New York
For the sneaker guy who has everything, this is your shop. The sister store to Atrium, Kith is located right next door and sells some of the best sneakers in BK. It’s a spot where guys actually sleep outside in the winter just to score the brand-new pair your collection isn’t complete without. When styles come in, purchase quickly, because this store will only do a full-size run… and that’s it. The stock cleans out quickly here, so if you see it, get it.
Passport Vintage
Austin, Texas
There are so many vintage stores in Austin that it's often hard to pick just one, but Passport is worth your time for two reasons: One, their shop is located on the East Side, meaning crowds won’t be an issue like the would be at a shop on South Congress. Two, they sell a great mix of both men's and women's vintage, which is pretty rare. From the ‘70s to the ‘90s, give or take, Passport has a great selection that’s full of rare finds.
Neighbor
Oakland, California
Neighbor is the most beautiful Piedmont shop of all, and it’s run by two badass women who are both local to the Bay Area (which isn’t all that common, frankly). These inspiring ladies own Good Stock and Mercy Vintage individually and decided to collaborate when the property between their shops opened up. As they put it, “Neighbor exists with the intention to pique curiosity, learn from, and find things that you may not happen upon easily elsewhere.” And how! You can find everything from handcrafted wall hangings to artisan mayonnaise in this little oasis, and in the green-filled backyard (yep, they have a patio) they host the occasional canning, pickling, and kombucha-making classes, too.
WAIT and SEE
Milan, Italy
Located in a former 18th-century convent in the heart of the medieval 5 Vie neighborhood, Wait and See perfectly encompasses the charm and spirit of Milan. Owner Uberta Zambeletti sources both new and vintage clothing and accessories from all over the world – and, thanks to the various price points, her shop is accessible to everyone. That said, don’t set a budget for yourself if you can help it. You’ll want everything in sight.
Designer Store Krug
Split, Croatia
Krug, a Croatian word for circle, is a shop that’s founded on the notion of a well-rounded group of friends and ideas. Comprising renowned Croatian brands like Dott., Chicks on Chic, and Little Wonder, it isn’t just another shop that wants to get ahead in the fashion industry; the designers here have a story and a certain utility to the items they create. All pieces are made in small batches out of natural materials, and they’re all inspired by vintage clothing and designs, with a huge emphasis on detail. The jewelry is handmade, too, and a piece from here is sure to leave a powerful impression. Situated in center of Old Town, it’s a must for a shopping day.
Glasswing
Seattle, Washington
At first glance, the items for sale at Glasswing – with the exception of the houseplants – seem almost comically overpriced. A beanie for how much?! you’ll silently scream. But everything on sale at this Capitol Hill boutique is of exceptional quality, and whatever you try on you’re sure to love, both immediately and eternally. Beyond the men’s and women’s clothing, which runs the gamut from dainty things to overcoats, you’ll find plenty of great gifts including barware, stationery, blankets, art, and more.
Saint Claude Social Club
New Orleans, Louisiana
The bracingly vibrant mural on the storefront of this local gem says it all. Saint Claude Social Club is full of vintage and contemporary apparel, jewelry, candles, and fine art, and the boldness of it all seems to say, “Why not?” Stop by, but prepare to hang for a little while, because in addition to great finds at great prices, you’re just as likely to make a new friend in one of the amazing women running the joint.
Sole Classics
Columbus, Ohio
Columbus's only true lifestyle sneaker boutique, SC has been in business for over 14 years and continues to be the go-to shop for limited and exclusive footwear. They carry all of your favorite brands like Nike Sportswear, Vans, Asics, New Balance, Adidas Originals, Converse, Reebok, and more. The store is split into two sections; one for athletic/sportswear items, while the other side has more of a lifestyle appeal. If that weren’t enough, SC is known for its strong relationship with Vans: The store has collaborated and designed shoes for Vans on over a dozen projects.
Other Shops We Love
Zii Ropa
Mexico City, Mexico
DechkoTzar
Belgrade, Serbia
Nisolo
Nashville, Tennessee
The Foundry*
Minneapolis, Minnesota
curbside pickup only; browse their site
H. Lorenzo
Los Angeles, California
Indigo & Cotton
Charleston, South Carolina
Dreamland Vintage
Cape Town, South Africa
Sing Blackbird
Berlin, Germany
Krug
Split, Croatia
Highway Robbery
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Madison-USA
Columbus, Ohio
Dongmyo Flea
Seoul, South Korea
Maketto
Washington, D.C.
Housewerks Salvage
Baltimore, Maryland
Merci
Paris, France
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