Big cities get all the buzz as shopping destinations, but there's a hidden shopping mecca in Walnut Creek loaded with opportunities to blow whatever cash is burning a hole in your pocket.
With the names such as Neiman Marcus and a newly renovated shopping plaza—complete with fire pits and lounge areas where you can sip on your gourmet coffee—Walnut Creek is already the East Bay's toniest shopping hub; now it's a destination worth the drive past the Caldecott Tunnel.
Walnut Creek ladies luv them some luxury merch. But out with the old and in with the new, they say. One woman's hand-me-down is another woman's treasure, we say. At the WC outpost of Labels (which also has a Berkeley store), you can shop pretty much all the premium designer labels—Chanel, Hermes, Celine, Gucci—at consignment prices. Watch their Instagram for the latest and greatest. // 1367 N. Main St. (Walnut Creek), labelsluxury.com
The first of its kind, this Anthro lover's dream destination is stocked with all things amazing: custom furniture for your dream home, Art Deco–style melamine plates to liven up your take out, limited-edition collections of clothing you won't find on Shopbop, body oils that will have you greeting the day with a fresh face, stunning wedding dresses, and succulent terrariums for your indoor gardens. Get lost roaming the staged rooms and galleries of clothes, and don't leave without sprucing up your wardrobe for Saturday brunch with your gal pals. // 1149 South Main St. (Walnut Creek), anthropologie.com
Fill your closet for all occasions at Aritzia, the high-end Canadian department store that has created its own brands to appeal to every aspect of your life. Shop Tna for weekend casual wear that channels urban skate culture with graphic tees and soft flannels. Babaton has your office attire covered—think crisp linen tops and pleated midi-skirts in solids that can be paired with anything already in your closet. And your date night warecan be found in Wilfred, which features silky joggers and sexy off-shoulder tops. These Aritzia brands are accompanied by tried-and-true brands such as Citizens of Humanity and Rag and Bone New York. // 1265 Broadway Plaza (Walnut Creek), us.artizia.com
Planning your summer vacation to Bermuda (one of Travel and Leisure's best places to travel for its lavish resorts and white sandy beaches)? Be sure to hit up Everything But Water for all your swimwear needs. Specializing in what's-hot-right-now swimsuits and resort apparel, this shop has you covered with asymmetrical one pieces (from $134) or halter bikini separates (from $59), and Brazilian or athletic fit bottoms (from $49). Plus, shop their wide selection of cover ups, including jumpsuits and rompers for those warm nights spent with your toes in the sand. // 1235 Broadway Plaza (Walnut Creek), everythingbutwater.com
Free People
At everyone's favorite boho-chic boutique you can find pieces to elevate your spring and summer festival wardrobe—flowing dresses, cropped sweater tanks, and linen jumpsuits that are equal parts feminine and flirty. Plus, stock up on intimates to wear underneath your new attire, or let peek ever-so-sexily out. // 1540 Olympic Blvd. (Walnut Creek), freepeople.com
Top-end designers (think Givenchy and Alexander Wang) and lesser known names (Acne, Avant Toi) can be found on the racks at Jinny, a seasonally driven boutique owned by a former fashion journalist. You can find hot new trendsin apparel (biker jackets paired with floral skirts), accessories (jumbo scarves), and footwear (studded boots) alongside limited edition and vintage clothing to satisfy the fashion blogger looking for something totally unique. Snag a pair of chic Aquazzura pumps to wear to a swanky dinner at Saison. // 1575 Botelho Dr. (Walnut Creek), shopjinny.com
Madewell
All good weekend outfits start with an awesome pair of jeans, and that's what you'll get when you shop at Madewell. Their jeans have just the right stretch to keep you comfortable all day. Stock up on a few pairs while you shop their tomboy-inspired looks, such as soft pre-washed tees, touch-of-lace blouses, and drapey shirts to pair with your favorite chinos. // 1240 Broadway Plaza (Walnut Creek), madewell.com
What started as an online shopping experience is now a brick-and-mortar boutique where shopping feels like rummaging through your best friend's closet—you know, the one who has all the best clothes you can't wait to borrow. And their selections are constantly updating with the season and trends, so your looks will be on point no matter what. For those chilly Bay nights when you need a little extra to cover up, grab a velvet kimono that's as cozy as your favorite blanket at home. // 1683 N. California Blvd. (Walnut Creek), vicicollection.com
Zara
Who doesn't love high-fashion clothing for a fraction of what it would cost at a luxury department store? Enter Zara, a huge player in the global fashion world and new transplant to the shopping scene in Walnut Creek. Find apparel that is updated constantly to keep the brand stylish and on-trend, but act fast because the stock is constantly turning over. We love the men's leather jackets and sleek suits, women's crochet shorts and leather skirts. // 1292 Broadway Plaza (Walnut Creek), zara.com
