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

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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!

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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:

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eCosway – Color Your World – Fine Products at Fair Prices

eCosway offers the worlds finest products at fair prices. While browsing in Hillcrest this weekend I found the local eCosway retail store. What a fabulous surprise! I knew nothing about this product line and was excited to hear about the yummy smelling laundry soap ringing up under $6 and the exceptional organic foods. eCosway (launched in 2002) is a rapidly growing international company with headquarters in the prestigious golden triangle of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and thousands of Sales Centers located throughout Asia, Australia, UK and US.

eCosway stores are easily accessible and usually placed in high-density residential areas, supermarkets and shopping malls with heavy foot traffic. eCosway sells a wide range of exclusive, quality products carefully sourced from established manufacturers and researchers from all over the world. They keep abreast of trends and come up with new and exciting products to give clients the best products.

eCosway

1295 University Ave.

San Diego, CA 92103

Phone: (619)295-3900

www.ecosway.com/ushome/US100055

Bottom line– this is a great place to stop- whether you are looking for a chocolate bar or a mini-microwave cooker or some laundry soap. Something for everyone! My fave– Laundry Soap. Cheers and happy shopping!

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