In the shadow of the Transamerica Pyramid, stumble into a 19th century flashback: the mini-neighborhood known as Jackson Square. Not a square at all, it’s an intimate collection of former brick warehouses in Italianate and classic revival styles on a handful of pretty, tree-lined blocks. This laidback destination with all the right vibes for retail therapy is focused on sustainable quality in classic wardrobe pieces for a lifetime of wear.
FASHION SHOPPING
“Stylish” and “off-the-beaten-path” describe the independent vibe of Jackson Square fashion retailers. This is the place to wander without crowds and seek out international flair, trendy footwear, quality leather goods, even customizable, American-made watches.
Allbirds
Founded in San Francisco, this is the original home to the hip flagship store for ultra-comfortable, casual (and machine washable), eco-friendly shoes made from natural fibers. As a tribute to the city’s iconic summer fog, the sustainable shoes come in a custom San Francisco gray color. 57 Hotaling Pl. Allbirds.com
Anine Bing
Scandinavian sensibilities inspire designs which are thoughtfully sourced from the highest quality fabrications and materials, including leather, silk, linen, cashmere, and jewelry in 14 carat gold. The brand’s product line is focused on everyday wardrobe essentials and investment pieces for modern women. Connect with an in-house stylist. 412 Jackson St. Aninebing.com
A.P.C.
Born from a French flair for classic raw denim in the 1980s, the brand now encompasses a casual, essential look for a ready-to-wear line in both the women’s and men’s collections. From a perfect white T-shirt to a classic trench, there’s a lot to love in great fabrics like waterproof Italian cotton gabardine, Oxford shirting, chambray, and linen. 407 Jackson St. apc-us.com
Atelier Lan Jaenicke
Find exceptional tailoring and a zeal for perfection in highly collectible modernist statement pieces, all handcrafted. Simplicity is key to the designer’s vision; signature coats and jackets are elegantly sculpted of 100 percent woven cashmere. Participate in the design process in this strikingly unique heritage space, by appointment only. (A second store location is at 3307 Sacramento St. in Pacific Heights.) 431 Jackson St. Lanjaenicke.com
Daniel George Custom Suits
If James Bond needed new threads, he’d probably book an appointment with an expert tailor at Daniel George. “Inspired by British sartorial tradition and European style” and built on successful Chicago roots, the custom suit brand expanded into San Francisco in 2018. It’s recommended to book three weeks in advance for a personal appointment in the contemporary 2-story with a fully stocked wet bar. 515 Pacific Ave., floor 2. danielgeorge.com
Isabel Marant
Explore a range of Parisian luxury, ready-to-wear in clothing, shoes, and accessories. Isabel Marant Étoile collection is a dependably eclectic mix of separates; Isabel Marant Woman features must-have items from outerwear essentials to iconic silk dresses. The shoe selection has everything from espadrilles to suede cowboy boots. 455 Jackson St. Isabelmarant.com
Shinola
In the historic Hotaling Whiskey Warehouse, this Detroit brand embraces a stylish heritage. Made-in-America handcrafted quality is the hallmark of design-forward Shinola watches, jewelry, handbags, and small leather goods for men and women who make a bold statement in accessorizing an outfit. 53 Hotaling Pl. Shinola.com
Thom Browne
Evolution: First there was the Thom Browne “uniform” conceived in the West Village, NYC in 2003, and now there’s a global brand with more than 50 stores. And, of course, there was First Lady Michelle Obama dressed in Thom Browne for the 2012 Presidential Inauguration. Men and women, boys and girls, bags, leather goods, footwear, eyewear, fragrance, and accessories are incorporated into the whimsical product line. 432 Jackson St. thombrowne.com
Zimmermann
Think floaty, floral, feathery, and feminine styles from sisters Nicky and Simone Zimmermann, the Australian label founded in 1991. Then see how they’ve expanded on that vision. Filling out the line are jumpsuits and playsuits, swim- and resort-wear, plus shoes and accessories. (Pictured: Runway Spring 23 Collection.) Clothing is thoughtfully displayed in a delightful, airy space. 458-460 Jackson St. zimmermann.com/us
SHOPPING BREAK
Because convivial conversation enhances any shopping spree, take a break for food and drink without leaving Jackson Square. Some of San Francisco’s most charming and delightful restaurants are right here, and fun spots for a coffee or a cocktail are within steps.
Quince
470 Pacific Ave. quincerestaurant.com
Cotogna
490 Pacific Ave. cotognasf.com
Kokkari Estiatorio
200 Jackson St.
Kokkari.com
Bix
56 Gold St.
Bixrestaurant.com
15 Romolo
15 Romolo Pl.
romolo.com
Comstock Saloon
155 Columbus Ave.
comstocksaloon.com
Vesuvio Cafe
255 Columbus Ave.
Vesuvio.com
Jackson Place Café
633 Battery St.