The Best Boutiques And Design Shops In Philadelphia

Philadelphia has some fantastically curated boutiques offering some of the best one-of-a-kind finds in an urban setting. Read ahead for our guide to the best independent stores in Philadelphia.

Bus Stop

Since creator Elena Brennan opened shop in 2007, fashionistas and shoe-obsessors alike have been making the pilgrimage here. The shop showcases lively under-the-radar designers with modern and retro-inspired takes on men and women’s footwear. You’ll find show stoppers to everyday flats, and there is a decent selection for men, too. Choose from designers like Jeffrey Campbell, Irregular Choice or United Nude. The shop also hosts monthly art events, so be sure to check its schedule, plus watch out for the annual sale.
Bus Stop, 727 S 4th St Philadelphia, PA 19147 215-627-2357

Third Street Habit

Third Street Habit is one of the go-to boutiques for contemporary, ready-to-wear fashions including Rodebjer and Rag & Bone. It also has a fabulous collection of bohemian and classic jewelry and denim from an eclectic mix of designers. The innovative styles and fabulous curation – along with great, non-pushy customer service – has got this boutique listed as one of the best in the nation by Lucky Magazine and praised by The New York Times among others. It also carries items from Isabel Marant’s Etoile line, and it is one of the few boutiques in the country who does.
Third Street Habit, 153 N 3rd St Philadelphia, PA 19106 215-925-5455

Verde is a unique shop in the heart of Midtown Village specializing in women’s jewelry and accessories that includes collections of clothing and home items. Shop here and you’ll find Philadelphia prints, artifacts and everyday accessories that’ll win you compliments every day. It’s also perfect for buying gifts with Philadelphia charm. Also, you must try the specialty chocolates from Marcie Blanc and the limited-edition budino pops from Marcie Turney while they’re in stock during select summer months.
Verde, 108 S 13th St Philadelphia, PA 19107 215-546-8700

Eyes Gallery

Since 1968, Julia and Isaiah Zager of Magic Garden fame have operated this ornate Latin American crafts and jewelry shop in the heart of South Street. With three floors of clothes and ornately carved furniture, it has a great selection of vintage, handmade, Mexican, Indian and indigenous jewelry. The shop also has a range or children’s gifts and toys. Even if you’re not looking to buy something, Eyes Gallery is a wonderful spot to view Isaiah Zager’s tile walls, or the beautiful tapestries and knickknacks. This exotic hub will help you fall in love with Philadelphia.
Eyes Gallery, 402 South St Philadelphia, PA 19147 215-925-1093

Boyds

If you want sophistication and elegance, Boyds Department Store is a must. With four floors of classic styles, Boyds carries everything from J Brand to Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent. It was also voted one of the best places for men to shop in the city. Perfect for deciding between more contemporary and designer styles, Boyds has a bit of something for everyone.
Boyds, 1818 Chestnut St Philadelphia, PA 19103 215-564-9000

Adorn

Store owner Sarah Lewis has created a boho-chic boutique for your exotic, inner hippie. Selling ornate gemstone jewelry, embroidered bags from India and cotton tunics, Fishtown’s Adorn was voted 2013’s best boho boutique in the city. Lewis’ hand-crafted line of jewelry called ’Tribe’ pays homage with the new age twist of hip, bohemian flair that is one-of-a-kind while still being on trend. Items range from around $20 and up depending on sales.
Adorn, 1314 Frankford Ave Philadelphia, PA 19125 215-739-2120

Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction

Art in the Age is a rustic, woodsy haven featuring some fabulous supplies and clothing for both genders. It is also the only boutique to sell its own handmade line of liquors – check out the root, rhubarb and tea flavors; the staff are more than willing to let you sample them straight up. It sells a mix of independent and American labels such as Penfield, Woolrich and Steven Alan and also has a large collection of Warby Parker glasses.
Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction, 116 N 3rd St Philadelphia, PA 19106 215-922-2600

Open House

Midtown Village’s Open House is a great boutique for finding that item that ties a room together. Better yet, it’s perfect for gifts, ranging from kitchen items and candles to personal accessories such as mugs. The variety of products is great for a range of different family members and friends, so you’re sure to find something to suit.
Open House, 107 S 13th St Philadelphia, PA 19107 215-922-1415

Smak Parlour

The creators of Smak Parlour have come up with a frilly and fun feminine boutique right on Market Street in Old City. If you’re looking for a casual summer dress, lacy accessories or embellished sweaters, Smak delivers with lesser-known brands like Ark & Co. and Many Belles Down. However, the owners also sell their house-label style of rockabilly mixed with pin-up-style clothing. You’ll also find an assortment of handmade rings and necklaces from local artisans. At festivals in the city, look for their mobile fashion truck.
Smak Parlour, 219 Market St Philadelphia, PA 19106 215-625-4551

Vagabond

Philadelphia Magazine named Vagabond the best boutique of 2015 due to its eclectic mix of contemporary and vintage designers with a large selection.The back room of the store is stock with great vintage finds. Here, you’ll find great knitwear, leather bags and many neutral colors as well as bohemian pieces mixed with western vintage assortments. You’ll find many brands you won’t at other Old City boutiques, and prices range greatly, giving you a great selection.
Vagabond, 37 N 3rd St Philadelphia, PA 19106 267-671-0737

Aoki Boutique

The cute little shop is a gem of Rittenhouse. Aoki features self-professed ‘funky’ and eclectic clothing from local designers. Aoki’s women’s lifestyle shop is inspired by street fashion and traveling, but stocks many classy garments for semi-formal events as well. A thoughtfully curated selection of books, clothes, accessories and perfumes helps make this a newly-minted Rittenhouse favorite. It’s also nice to find dresses that suit all body types, and almost all pieces you can find are under $100.
Aoki, 115 S 22nd St Philadelphia, PA 19103 215-568-2024

Moon + Arrow

Located in Queen Village, Moon + Arrow is a socially responsible and environmentally conscious boutique that helps smaller, lesser-known artisans get their name out to the urban community with primitive-inspired and modern clothing and accessories. Jewelry and clothing range from mid-range price to more expensive designs. Popular items tend to sell quick, so be sure to invest time in finding the right piece.
Moon + Arrow, 754 S 4th St Philadelphia, PA 19147 215-469-1448

Sugarcube

Sugarcube is a sweet treat for those with great taste. Check out its large selection of both men’s and women’s clothing. It has a great collection of vintage leather coats and items from designs like APC and Mike & Chris for guys. Don’t let the bag check or the no drinks allowed policies deter you – these up-to-date modern designs are just prized possessions. It is one of the more pricier boutiques in the city, but for the well-curated items, it may just be worth it.
Sugarcube, 124 N 3rd St Philadelphia, PA 215-238-0825

Lost & Found

Prices here range from reasonably mid-ranged to pricey, offering a good selection with brands like Poetic License. It has a small men’s section with brands including Ben Sherman. The shop has a quality albeit small collection of shoes and purses, and bags range from $30-$50 and dresses are priced around $60-$180. The owners are helpful with decision making and finding select pieces, and it is one of the only boutiques that lets you return after 10 days. This boutique is definitely worth a browse.
Lost & Found, 133 N 3rd St Philadelphia, PA 19106 215-928-1311

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