There are times when your wallet is feeling a little light, but you just have to indulge in some retail therapy. Don’t despair. Take a trip to Ichiban Kan, the Japanese equivalent of a dollar store.

This place is chock-full of inexpensive gems. A recent visit yielded floral tablecloths, bamboo coasters, teapots, teacups, ceramic dishes — basically everything you need to dress your tabletop, for around a buck each. But the fun doesn’t just stop there. You can find pillows, plastic organizers, toiletries, window blinds, kitchen tools, and even terrycloth slippers emblazoned with a four-star hotel’s name on them (the perfect detail for a guest bedroom, perhaps?). In addition to housewares, Ichiban Kan stocks a plethora of Japanese food, so you can definitely satisfy your Pocky cravings here.

Ichiban Kan is modeled after the 100-Yen stores in Japan — which helps explain why it is a notch above your typical dollar store. The aisles are clean and organized, the staff is friendly, and the merchandise is too cute to pass up. At such low prices, you don’t have to!

Ichiban Kan
22 Peace Plaza
San Francisco, CA 94115
(415) 409-0472

98 E. 3rd Avenue
San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 347-1347

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There is such a dearth of good boutiques in the suburbs. So when I stumbled upon Crimson Mim, I knew I had to write about it. This place feels so urban and chic, you may temporarily forget that you aren’t in the city.

Although it’s not very big — 800 square feet or so — the shop is overflowing with the coolest clothing and shoe selection. We’re talking footwear by Gunmetal, Bettye Muller and Cynthia Rowley. In addition to popular apparel brands such as Rachel Pally and Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, you’ll find smaller, independent labels like Porridge, Talla and Paolo. Handbags, jewelry and belts are also stocked at Crimson Mim.

The staff here is super-friendly and helpful, making it easy to see why this specialty boutique has developed a loyal following. Before Christine Campbell opened up shop last year, I’m not sure how fashionistas in Los Altos managed!

Crimson Mim
322 Main Street
Los Altos, CA 94022
(650) 947-7463

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