Oakland Originals

In true Oakland fashion, shopping in The Town is always an original experience. From Bohemian boutiques to horticultural havens to nationally recognized jewelry designers, you’ll find the perfect item you never knew you needed. Discover for yourself what shopping small is all about.

BY MARTHA-PAGE ALTHAUS

Oaktown Spice Shop

A must-visit in the Grand Lake neighborhood. Find a new blend to take home and liven up your dishes. From a Turkish-inspired Eastern Mediterranean blend to the hot and spicy Vietnamese cinnamon (This isn’t your grandma’s cinnamon!), there are so many new flavors to try. oaktownspiceshop.com

Esqueleto

Browse the cases of ethically sourced, handcrafted fine jewelry at this Temescal art gallery/ boutique, which focuses on pieces by independent artists. shopesqueleto.com

Love Iguehi

Bold, colorful African Ankara prints are hand-cut and custom made, so no two pieces are exactly alike. Book an appointment at the Downtown location to shop. loveiguehi.com

MAKER’S LOFT BOUTIQUE

For independent makers and local artisan goods, look no further than Piedmont Avenue’s

Makers Loft. This shop has a little bit of everything, from ceramics and home wares to personal accessories and self-care products. makersloft.co

1-2-3-4-GO! RECORDS

A brick-and-mortar record store? They still exist! This shop/ record label/live music venue focuses on punk, indie, and obscure labels. Stop in for a listen or to hunt for that hard-to-find vinyl. 1234gorecords.com

Oaklandish

Since 2000, this B Corp-certified company has been spreading local love and community pride with its iconic tees, hoodies, and hats. (Bonus: Oaklandish donates 2% of revenue to local nonprofits). Stop by the Downtown flagship store, or other locations in Fruitvale, Brooklyn Basin, and Jack London Square.

Taylor

Taylor Jay’s elevated basics are made with sustainably sourced materials, and a focus on body positivity and inclusive sizing. Discover your best fit at the flagship store on Broadway. taylor jaycollection.com

Exquisite, handcrafted jewelry made with semiprecious and precious stones, and 18k silver and gold. Visit the Montclair studio (open by appointment only) to view, try on, or discuss a custom piece. dorian webb.com

Alkali Rye

Come thirsty! This beverage shop, owned by two Oakland natives, has a well-curated selection of wine, beer, spirits, coffee, and teas, many of which are made by women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ producers. sipalkalirye.com