New in San Diego Shopping: Azzaria, Intimacy, THREAD

The nation’s financial situation and the approaching summer season has lead to numerous changes in the San Diego fashion scene. From stores closing to bold boutiques changing face, and au courant events, discover what’s new with San Diego shopping.

The dreadful economy has prompted the closing of a few boutiques, including: Tiss Boutique in Pacific Beach, JEP Boutique in La Jolla, Gila G in Escondido, L.A. Fairchild in Cardiff.

Soon to be added to this list are Bayley in Del Mar that will close at the end of April and The Jeanery in Fashion Valley at the end of May. Although they will be missed, a benefit to these stores conclusions is the incredible sales. Jeanery is boasting G-Star Raw jeans for $30 as well as Diesel T-Shirts for $10. Nothing perks up a forlorn consumer than 30-80% off at their favorite store.

On a positive note, L.A. Fairchild’s location is now occupied by the new Azzaria Boutique. This shop’s bigger locale now boasts a full selection of cutting edge garments and a denim lounge. Azzaria's approach is unique, considering many boutiques are struggling.

Although we're losing Jeanery, Fashion Valley brought us Intimacy Bra Boutique, an Oprah favorite that focuses on the perfect fit, quality bras and warm customer service. Starting in early April, Intimacy changed the way San Diegans wear bras forever. (pictured left)

Once known for high-end clothing and a side of take-home décor, Station Boutique in Little Italy is now transforming into a design co-op with emphasis on the home rather than the person.

Tobi Blatt is sticking around, but decided to consolidate two stores into one to focus on the Del Mar location. This is a smooth move that still leaves shoppers with a sizeable space full of women’s flashy duds as well as in vogue men’s clothing.

Fresh Boutique, a top stop for hot trends at cool prices, is making sharp choices to stay afloat. Letting go of their large lime green storefront and moving a few blocks west on Garnet to a smaller locale cuts costs without losing clientele.

Within the former Fresh Boutique, Forward Footwear was once a wall of shoe styles. Now, Forward Footwear is its own boutique located next door to Fresh’s new space on Garnet.

Pass the money tussles and onto fresh air, Christie’s Boutique has new ownership that has breathed new life into Missions Hills with their new local lines.

Revamping as well, Station in Little Italy is becoming a home décor / interior design boutique this month. But clotheshorses need not to worry; Station will carry the fabulous clothing line Fremont for both men and women.

Dress for the Nines is a newbie that will provide expecting Hillcrest shoppers with stylish and affordable maternity wear. Their soft opening will be held on April 25th from 12-2 with a trunk show, refreshments, nibbles, informal modeling and of course giveaways.

The first week of April brought Oliver Peoples to Fashion Valley. This enticing shop has the ambience and style to entice any buyer on the lookout for high quality glasses. (pictured main) Catch up on more Fashion Valley Mall upgrades.

Shopping Event Alert

A May event meant to enrich your closet is Shecky’s Girls Night Out. Shecky's is an online and event destination for what's cool and undiscovered in fashion, beauty, and fun with the girls. From emerging designers and delicious cocktails to free giveaways, Shecky's Girls Night Out events are a wonderland for girls to shop, sample, and score the things they love most. This spring, Shecky’s is taking over the Air and Space Museum at Balboa Park on May 14, 2009. Get tickets at GirlsNightOut.Sheckys.com.

Coming up in May to stir your shopping nerves is THREAD Show. This fashion and lifestyle show offers one-of-a-kind pieces ranging from hand stitched frocks to eye-catching jewelry. This spring, THREAD is a two-day festival at the Wonder Bread Bakery warehouse May 30-31, 2009. Get tickets at THREADShow.com.

What’d we miss? Leave your comments below or contact us with new updates on San Diego shopping and fashion events.