The fashion-forward woman can’t ask for a better place to live or shop than Marin. There are dozens of boutiques in every corner of the county, and we’ve selected some of the best for you to try. Next time your wardrobe needs fresh style, consider going to one of these popular and classy boutiques instead of straight to the mall or a designer outlet. The 2023 readers’ choice Best of the County winner is Viva Diva Boutique (pictured above). For the rest of the Marin Magazine‘s Best of Marin County Women’s Clothing Store picks see below.
Our 2023 Shopping category sponsor is California Girl Jewelry.
We’ve broken it down by region: Southern and Central Marin.
Southern | Central
Southern Marin
Main Street Mercantile
Tiburon
Previously known as Koze, this shop did a complete overhaul of their brand and reopened with a shiny new name in 2021. Next to Main Street Mercantile’s displays of candles, baby gifts, and decorative wooden bowls stands a collection of women’s apparel. Their loose blouses and pastel colors are perfect for anyone looking to beat the summer heat and look stylish at the same time. Don’t worry, they’ve got flannels and sweaters for the winter months as well. While they’re known for helpful staff and signature designs, their secret reputation is that they’re also a great place to go for a pair of Mother Denim jeans, one of the few brands that are actually flattering for new moms. Hours are Monday through Sunday 10 a m. – 6 p.m.
16 Main St, Tiburon, 415.435.1916
The Store
Mill Valley
The Store in Mill Valley is, well… a store. The store. If it shows up on the runways, it shows up here. If you see a dress in the glossy pages of a magazine, they’ve got it on the racks. For something more casual, check out their selections of C&C California and Ella Moss. For something more flashy, try on a brightly colored Trina Turk dress. Once you’ve got your perfect outfit in hand, don’t forget to slow down on your way out — it would be a crime to miss their selection of jewelry. Hours are Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
68 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, 415.888.8796
Shop ELI
Mill Valley
ELI (formerly CAROLINA) is a modern bohemian, artful fashion boutique that reflects both nature’s light and color within the space & its offerings. Our simple mission is to inspire & guide those looking to enhance their personal style with warm, timeless pieces true to our “California cool” aesthetic. All handpicked by owner Eli Loftus, our selection of predominantly female owned brands include both local and international designers… Ulla Johnson, Alix of Bohemia, forte_forte, Isabel Marant, Freda Salvador, Brother Vellies, Marie Lichtenberg, Brent Neale, Uniform Object, Darius Jewels and Scosha are some of the designers you will find in this jewel box.” Hours are Monday through Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
76 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, 415.381.2554
Margaret O’Leary
Mill Valley
With stock that’s refreshed seasonally and a variety of sales events, it’s never a bad time to drop back in and see everything new they have hanging on the racks. Margaret O’Leary’s claim to fame is her brand of sweaters, and those never disappoint. Even with the fanciest of cashmere, the staff are always on hand to teach you how to use a sweater comb or offer de-pilling services, ensuring that what you buy lasts you longer than a couple of wears. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
14 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, 415.388.2390
Surf and Sand
Mill Valley
For a store that’s fashion reflects the spirit of the coast, look no further than Surf and Sand. Their earth-friendly products include brands that are all about organic cotton and handbags crafted from woven palm leaves — no plastics in sight! You can also find all-natural beauty products to keep your skin smooth without overwhelming it with artificial scents. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
55 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, 415.634.8272
Central Marin
Viva Diva Boutique
Corte Madera
Who says being a diva doesn’t have to be comfortable? Inside this warm and inviting boutique, you’re bound to find flowing blouses and floral skirts of Free People, right next to the chic leather jackets of Blank NYC. Whatever your body type, the stylists at Viva Diva can help you construct the perfect look for any occasion that’s comfortable enough for you to flop onto your sofa once you get home. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
111 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera, 415.256.8380
Bella
San Anselmo
With additional locations in Novato, Greenbrae, and Mill Valley, it’s safe to say that Bella is making a mark on all of Marin. Their focus is on making sure that from the moment you walk through the door, you’re treated not just as a customer, you’re getting the best service possible up to and including having your own personal shopper help you out. Their racks are filled with new and affordable clothing, with brands ranging from women-owned Veronica M to smooth Mauritius leather. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
848 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.457.1066
Citrine
Larkspur
Few places in Marin have a more vibrant and holistic energy than Citrine. As a California lifestyle brand, they offer a curated selection of brands like Naadam and Lamarque to help shoppers connect to their sense of style in a peaceful environment that doesn’t alienate any woman larger than a size 4. What makes them stand out is their wider approach to appearance and lifestyle, offering crystals, candles, and even yoga classes to help women connect with their own bodies. Hours are Monday and Friday 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
489 D, Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, 415.755.4027
Sponsor
California Girl Jewelry: 2023 Best of the County Shopping
