I am travelling from Australia (summer) to Colorado (winter), with a 2 day stop-over in San Francisco on 1/11. While in SF I need to stock up on some winter clothes - both ski gear and street clothes. There is so much to choose from, I would appreciate some pointers - shopping areas, particular shops etc.

I would like to avoid mainstream shops like Gap and BR), and don't want to pay for exxy designer labels. I am female in my mid 30's. Thanks in advance.

skibunny1:
I was in San Francisco in June and found A LOT of great shopping in Union Square, I think this place may be great since it pretty much has everything including a HUGE Macy's I know you want to stay away from mainstream (not sure if Macy's is in this category or not) they also have a mall but I can't remember the name of it. Have a great time. Hope this helps.
Gina

Besides Macys, Saks and other major stores in Union Square, walk over to Sutter and see some of the smaller shops. I remember a Loehmann's (great ladies discount clothing) and some other shops. For unique items, try Union Street, a bit off the beaten track, but great boutique/unique items. Maybe you will hit the winter sales!

You must go to REI! (Great outdoor sporting goods store - REI label is good quality and reasonably priced)
840 Brannan St
San Francisco, CA 94103
(415) 934-1938

There is also a North Face store near Union Square but they are very pricey. Macy's is a good suggestion for street clothes. Timberland also has a store nearby. There is an indoor multi-story mall on Market Street that houses Nordstrom (large department store) and a gazillion other stores.

I agree that REI is great, but where are you going in Colorado? You may actually find less expensive options in Colorado. Sports Authority (there's one in Dillon) has some good values. Incidently, you'll also find Sports Authority in the Bay Area. I don't know if there are any in SF but there is one in San Mateo.

From Union Square to the Westfield SF Centre on Market Street,you will find stores of all levels. H&M and Zara are european chains but have nice looking winter street clothes.

Thanks Catbert - I am going to Vail so don't expect to find any bargains there.

I am staying in Union Square so think I'll find some good shopping there.

I'm not really familiar with the US department stores, but will have fun finding out!

I've heard REI is good value so will be looking out for that one!

And Union Street sounds great, so thanks Colombiana.

I'm so excited about my trip - I just can't wait. Thanks everyone!

It sounds like a great trip! The best of both worlds; SF and the Rockies. I have the good fortune to split my time between the two.

If you're driving from Denver to Vail, and you still need anything, Dillon is about 20 minutes before you get to Vail.

skibunny1,
I'm sure you will have a great time in San Francisco (my favorite U.S. city) and Vail (my favorite U.S. ski resort)! No, you won't find any bargains in Vail, but the village is lots of fun at night even for window-shopping. Please have a cold beer for me at the Red Lion while you're there!

REI is a great choice. Also visit anymountain dot com that sells high quality outdoor gear in the Bay Area.

REI has outdoorsy stuff all right; just be aware that Brannan St. is not right in the neighborhood of Union Square.

I think Macy's does have a good mainstream selection, moderately priced and right smack on Union Square. Saks and Neiman Marcus are pricey. Loehman's is I think up on Sutter St. (uphill from Union Sq.) but has some good values.

There should be an Eddie Bauer down on Market St. Also Westfield Centre as noted has a ton of shops all in one place.