Shopping Guide from the Intern
Whether you kids [and the economy] like it or not, “the holidays” are coming. Even if Steve Jobs thinks he can play Santa and cancel the big day, that sleigh is still pulling up in the 25th and you’re going to have to get in the mood sooner or later!
Now you’ve got the tree, the mistletoe, a menorah, a few cards, an itchy sweater and some hot buttered rum'but what’s left? PRESENTS! Now I know everyone is looking to stretch their dollar as much as possible this year, so I’ve decided to make you all a 2008 Broke Ass Shopping Guide! Here are some things that might make shit a little easier on your wallet this year:
· Storeroom (Bush at Fillmore) This place is couture for cheapies. The idea of the store design is a 'œpop-up department store' offering high end, elegant brands for 50% off or more. The store is decked out in an all cardboard design that is super awesome. There are books from Chronicle that are over half off, as well as those 'œShoplifter' totes from CITIZEN (the same CITIZEN that seemed unbearably expensive at first but are totally a steal at $18!). And if you’re looking for something more intimate, they have elegant adult toys by Jimmyjane for the fraction of the cost! Also, check out the sign that they usually have at Fillmore/Bush or the Yelp totes they have stacked up inside '“ there is an extra 10% coupon hidden in one of these two places!
Citizen's Shoplifter Bag
· Ice Skating! [Union Square or Ferry Plaza.] Now, I know its corny and totally cheesy, but what is more hilarious then seeing your friend eat shit on the ice in the middle of Union Square? Yeah, nothing. So both of you get your money’s worth. Plus, if you go during the week before 6pm, its only $8! [$12 if you need to rent skates, and $13 if you need hockey skates? What cheapskate needs hockey skates?!] Anyway, this is a guaranteed good time and you could grab a slice at Blondies on Powell or a cheap, delicious hoagie at Mastrelli’s in the Ferry Building if you’re at the Embarcadero.
· Crafty and need a cute idea? Head over to Polk-A-Dot Stationers (Polk and Washington). They specialize in vintage, dead stock anything and if you’re into the smell of paper, typewriters and more cute things than you can shake a stick at, this is your place. Last time I was here, I heard the lady that runs the place is going out of business, so you’re bound to get a good deal. They have vintage cards from the early twentieth century, handmade jewelry, old toy charms from the 50’s [to make your own!] as well as a slew of other things that can be valuable in DIY Christmas gifts!
· The Seventh Heart (Market at Page) is all you need for anyone wanting clothes this year. They already have Levi’s, some deadstock, for around $40 a piece, and the entire store is 20% off! They feature some other brands like Alternative Apparel and American Apparel, as well as quirky, local brands that are bound to knock your socks off. Everything is really cheap and the customer service is always super winning. I’d recommend this place to anyone hoping to look good on a budget.
· Marc by Marc Jacobs (Fillmore at Sacramento) What more is there to say that hasn’t already been said? Marc is one of the few designers in couture world that is down with making shit affordable for us commonfolk. He has t-shirts, jewelry, rainboots [which are amazing, I might add], wallets, purses '“ you name it '“ for a bargain. Its great design and a great product for a fraction of what it might cost you for one of those dresses. The employees here are always happy to help, and will wrap anything you buy! You’ll look like you spent hella skrilla in no time!
· Divisadero Corridor ( Divis from Haight to McAllister) Lower Haight is always cooking with the freshest of the fresh, but places on Divis like CC Rider, Enlightenment and Still Life will never let you down. Check out all of these small businesses for unique, one of a kind shit that won’t break the bank or end the season.
STILL LIFE
That’s it for now, but I’ll have some more tips for you soon.
– Monica the Intern
