SB LIFE & STYLE profiles
ShineUP , Up, AND Away Written by Amy Dong Photographed by Kennedy Williams
T
he sun came out just in time this year. I can feel the city exhale as the temperature rises to 80 degrees and the extended June gloom burns off. I leaf through my closet, thinking of all the upcoming midi dress and strappy sandal opportunities, and decide that a few fresh, sunshinefriendly pieces are in order (naturally). After meandering through a few stores in the Funk Zone, I let my appetite lead the way and land at a sunny outdoor table at Lama Dog accompanied by rockfish tacos, courtesy of the Nook. Postindulgence, I stroll down Helena Ave and a new boutique catches my eye. From the outside, ShineUp, has an industrial, artistic feel and I can’t help but wander in. I walk up the front steps, admiring the shipping container exterior and abstract skateboard collage. I haven’t even been inside and can already tell that I’ve happened across a true hidden gem. As I step across the threshold, I blink twice to adjust my eyes and find myself in a cozy yet masculine space, surrounded by men’s clothing and lifestyle accessories. I stroll through the store taking note of the clearly curated collection of artisan clothing brands, watches, shoes, wallets, beard oil, and more. I selfishly think “wow, I really need to get Jim (my boyfriend and resistant shopper) here.”
30 | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019