Gravel & Gold
This makers’ mecca is all about celebrating local and independent designers and features vintage wares and handmade pieces from its in-house label and one-of-a-kind mystical accessories, art totes, vintage stationery, weird books, and pottery. Not to be missed are its classes and DIY workshops — get on the email list, stat.
Gravel & Gold, 3266 21st Street (between Valencia and Mission streets); 415-552-0112.

Voyager
The Mission sister of geography-centric Revolver, Voyager expands on the discovery experience by supplying the gear needed for an adventurer’s life. Guys and gals will find American-made leather goods, luxe henleys, and backpacks that will go the distance for wherever life takes you. Be sure to peep the artsy submarine in the back, which doubles as a shop-in-shop for nearby jewelry and 'zine store, Needles & Pens.
Voyager, 365 Valencia Street (between 14th and 15th streets); 415-779-2712.

BellJar
Located smack-dab in the middle of the Mission, Sasha Darling’s adorable outpost on 16th Street is packed to the brim with “gorgeous little things” — both vintage and new. Funktional, Style Stalker, Toe Et Moi, In God We Trust, Corey Lynn Calter, and brag-worthy local jewelers line the boutique walls, while a well-curated mix of handcrafted, vintage, and hard-to-find imported apothecary and home items pepper the shop.
BellJar, 3187 16th Street (between Guerrero and Albion streets); 415-626-1749.

Freemans Sporting Club
This NYC import plays major double-duty for the fellas. Not only is the pint-sized shop stuffed with sharply tailored menswear (including made-to-measure suiting options), high-quality thick knits, and rustic-cool accessories, it connects to the always-packed F.S.C. Barber shop. Ladies into fashion-y hipsters, mill about here for some major eye candy. You won't be disappointed.
Freemans Sporting Club, 696 Valencia Street (at 18th Street); 415-863-2155.

Mira Mira
Don’t let the size fool you! This itty-bitty shop doesn’t skimp when it comes to carrying the can’t-find-anywhere-else kinda items. We’re serious, walking out empty-handed isn’t even an option. Score wonderful pieces by Something Else, Gat Rimon, Hansel From Basel, and much more. In a stretch littered with new restaurants and bars, this is a much-needed breath of fresh retail air. Plus, if you can’t make it in — you can always peep what’s new on the store’s official blog, which is updated pretty regularly and is always a joy to browse.
Mira Mira, 3292 22nd Street (at Valencia Street); 415-648-6513.

Painted Bird
Painted Bird’s carefully curated consignment is priced just right — making it a weekly must-visit stop for in-the-know local ladies and gents. Believe us, you won’t want this little bird whispering in anyone else’s ear! Perfectly packed with on-trend secondhand threads and accessories, the inspired inventory will have you emulating your all-time favorite fashion muse in no time.
Painted Bird, 1360 Valencia Street (between 24th and 25th streets); 415-401-7027.

Density
This tiny shop might be the most unassuming spot on the Valencia Street strip. But, trust, once you enter the space, you'll discover a diamond in the rough. Stocking both men's and women's wares, look out for cool and affordable clothing by the likes of RVCA, WESC, Triple 5 Soul, and Fred Perry.
Density, 593 Valencia Street (between 16th and 17th streets); 415-552-2249.

Mill Mercantile
We were over the moon when news of Unionmade’s tomboyish sister shop, Mill Mercantile, was announced — and, since its opening, that enthusiasm hasn't wavered a bit! The clean and simple-styled space bypasses frilly, uncomfortable pieces for Japanese striped tees and ultra-cozy knitwear. Its reading shelf that boasts Kinfolk mag, Elle Decor, and other fashion-y tomes shouldn't be overlooked, either!
Mill Mercantile, 3751 24th Street (at Chattanooga Street); 415-401-8920.

Photos: Courtesy of FSC; Voyager photographed by Maria del Rio; Courtesy of Gravel & Gold