Hillcrest – Thrift Shopping Buzz

Flashbacks Recycled Fashions – Hillcrest

Flashbacks is diverse and extremely reasonable with their prices. They have a fantastic selection of pre-owned and “NEW” retro clothing. There seriously is something for everyone. Fun place to shop, helpful staff and prices were right on the money. A lot of unique & funky stuff. They have everything! Belts, sunglasses, wigs, tutus, clothes, shoes, & jewelry. (It’s fun to just kinda look around in there.) I’ve been here 2 times in the last 6 months and it was a total blast! No, I didn’t buy a tutu. But did find several jackets and some funky bracelets.

Just so you know they offer cash for clothes too. Buy, Sell, Trade. Bring in some of your “old” things and trade in for something fresh at Flashbacks. From what I understand they are very fair with their exchanges/trades.

Flashbacks Recycled Fashions

3849 5th Avenue

San Diego, CA 92103

Phone: (619) 291-4200

Flashbacks is an eclectic mix of old and new. Some old, and some brand new stuff— tights, 80’s wear, platform shoes and everything in excellent condition, and the best news of all it doesn’t smell yucky! I know it’s the “second time around” but it’s important to me to smell yummy. Bravo on some fabulous recycled fashions. Here’s a few photos:

Twirl –

Twirl in Hillcrest…. what can I say but… fabulous… fantastic… ooo-la-la. I’ve walked by this boutique numerous times but just never went in. I was pleasantly surprised when I did actually walk thru the door. This place is great! I felt instantly welcomed by not only the staff but the welcoming interior. Everything was so pretty. They have a nice selection of dresses, handbags, accessories– anything at all to make dressing for a special occasion a true pleasure.

Twirl

3840 Fifth Avenue

San Diego, CA 92103

Phone: (619) 291-0933

I was in heaven the whole time I was in here. Twirl stocks a color-coordinated variety of adorable dresses, shorts, pencil skirts and accessories all at pretty amazing prices. The clothes range from about $15-$40+ and definitely worth it. Here is a random selection of what I saw:

Frills Boutique

Do you need a trendy dress or jewelry for a party but just can’t bear the thought of battling the parking lot at the Mall? Well, do I have the place for you! I found Frills Boutique tucked in the Ralphs Shopping Center in San Diego’s Hillcrest neighborhood. Good finds for me included fun accessories and little gifts like candles, earrings and purses.

Another huge benefit of this place – they only get a few pieces in of an item so you don’t have to worry about some other chic wearing your dress at a party. You won’t be able to walk in and not fall in love with at least one of the handbags. I certainly did– you can see a few of my faves below.

I really like how pretty and colorful everything was in this boutique. This makes me realize I need to step away from the black clothes! Check out the gorgeous handbag in the 2nd photo. Better yet it’s not black!

Frills Boutique

1020 University Avenue

San Diego, CA 92103

Phone: (619) 497-0458

Facebook: www.facebook.com/frills.hillcrest

Pure Boutique – by the Hillcrest sign

Pure Boutique is indie and hip with a bohemian splash combo. You’ll find some well-made and cute dresses here for an advantageous price. Better yet it’s easy to find– right by the famous Hillcrest sign! They get new arrivals every two weeks so there is always something “new” at Pure.

Pure Boutique

451 University Avenue

San Diego, CA 92103

Phone: (619) 294-7873

www.pureclothingboutique.com

I had a great time shopping here. The staff was friendly and helpful without being overly pushy. I found some amazing coconut jewelry priced from $15 to $64. The gray dress pictured below $78 and the beige dress $52. So while this may be a bit more than my typical thrift store finds– still not way over the top pricing. And they do have a sale rack priced anywhere from $5 to $10. Live a little… and shop on.

Bluestocking Books – San Diego – open 7 days!

Welcome to Bluestocking Books! For 44 years the 3817 5th Avenue address in San Diego’s Hillcrest neighborhood has been home to independent bookseller Bluestocking Books. Open seven days a week, they stock used as well as new titles. I also found “bookish” gifts, stationery and magazines. Customers may trade used books for store credit towards a discount at the register. And– they are willing to Special Order also.

“What you don’t know would make a great book” –Sidney Smith

Bluestocking Books

3817 5th Avenue

San Diego, CA 92103

Phone: (619) 296-1424

www.bluestockingbooks.com

This store was a total delight and a real treat. In a way, it was like stepping back in time. Everything from the fully stocked shelves floor to ceiling to the wooden chairs strategically placed. The contentment of reading has been around for centuries and seems to be alive and well in the modern world too courtesy of local Bluestocking Books. However, the fact remains we cannot simply love our friendly little shops and bookstores, we must also purchase things in them. Money does not make the world go around: it creates stability by paying employees, landlords & vendors. Bottom line- visit Bluestocking Books for the charming ambience and be sure to spend a few bucks while you’re there. (I noticed they have a wonderful website as well!) Cheers and Happy Reading!

Mint – shoes! shoes! shoes! – Hillcrest

Are you looking for cute shoes on a budget? I was thrilled when I walked into Mint in the Hillcrest neighborhood of San Diego. Definitely a shoe-lovers paradise. It’s a small space but the selection is mighty amazing! Everything from cute little flats with attitude to rockin’ heels.

Mint

525 University Ave.

San Diego, CA 92103

Phone: (619) 291-6468

www.mintshoes.com

As you sashay down the narrow aisle to pay for what will for sure turn out to be your new fave pair of shoes, don’t miss out on the accessories they have strung along the back wall— and do not pass up the sale section. (It’s like browsing for the candy & gum that you know you don’t need, but just want, as you’re standing in line at the grocery store).

Bravo! Here are a few pictures from my retail therapy experience at Mint:

Pretty Please – Uptown District in Hillcrest

This is the perfect place to find casual, cute and sexy attire! Most definitely worth a trip… I promise you won’t be disappointed! Tip: If you don’t see something you like in your size, be sure to ask. Associates are very helpful and willing to check for additional sizes at their other locations in Del Mar Highlands and Paseo Carlsbad.

Pretty Please is a ladies fashion boutique located just off the 163 freeway & University Ave in the Uptown Shopping District in San Diego’s Hillcrest neighborhood that specializes in fun yet affordable clothing. Whether you’re heading for a glitzy night out or just want something fun to wear around town, Pretty Please will have what you’re looking for. Brands include: Sky, Language, Sweet Pea, Weston Wear, Joe’s Jeans, Skinny Jeans, Miss Me, Lush, Michael Star, Rubicon and many more.

Pretty Please – Uptown District Hillcrest

1220 Cleveland Avenue

San Diego, CA 92103

Phone: (619) 296-1188

I had a great time shopping here. Below are a few photos of what I found….

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