Though San Francisco is home to some of the world’s largest brand-name retailers, and one of the most glamorous malls in the country, I prefer the one-of-a-kind boutique shops that offer locally made products.

Fine Arts Optical

Manufacturing eyewear since the 1930s, Fine Arts Optical on Valencia Street in the Mission District is a 4,000-square-foot space that specializes in the fabrication of bamboo, buffalo horn and wood frames. Most of its unique merchandise is made in San Francisco. There is also a large selection of vintage hats and horn jewelry.

Fine Arts Optical
888 Valencia Street. Tel. (415) 913-7414

Cuyana

Located above Union Square, Cuyana is an exceptional shop specializing in globally sourced, handcrafted leather accessories and fine apparel. Its philosophy of “Fewer, Better” reflects the elegant simplicity and timelessness of each item sold in the store.

Cuyana
291 Geary Street, Floor 2. Tel. (415) 445-3001