35 Best Places to Shop in The Haight, the Castro, Hayes Valley and Noe Valley, San Francisco

Though you can find a few items from the psychedelic '60s, beautifully preserved fashions from the '40s and '50s are the best reason for visiting. You can even track down purses and hard-to-find vintage shoes to go with that fur-trimmed jacket.

Azalea's stylish sister store for men carries designer brands like Fellow, Nudie, and Reed Wilson. The styles range from rugged outdoors to urban chic, but somehow it all works—locals can't get enough of them.

Cards, toasters, aprons, books, candles, and a wide selection of SF-theme items line the shelves. You'll also find fridge magnets, wisdom-spouting bags, and bakery-shape pencil erasers. And if you've misplaced your water bottle, the shop stocks a rainbow of colors.

Africa, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Central America are the sources for the handicrafts sold at Xela (pronounced shay-la). They include jewelry, masks, religious icons, and decorative wall hangings.

Carrying a unique collection of high-end perfumes, lotions, diffusers, scented candles, and even Mariage Frères teas, this upscale shop is an abiding favorite among discriminating Castro noses. Shop clerks are knowledgeable and can suggest the perfect gift for yourself or any lucky recipient.