Nob Hill Shops
Establishment
neighborhood
The Yo! Store
935 N.W. 19th Ave., Nob Hill
Shopping in Portland is supremely satisfying because there’s a higher concentration of small-batch goods than mass-produced items. The Yo! Store is the perfect example. It’s a thoughtfully stocked boutique where you’ll find Portland-made skin care (we see you, Olio E Osso), accessories, and ceramics lining the shelves next to tiny racks of European-made children’s clothing and vintage dresses. There’s also a handsome offering of art books and homewares. If you’re looking for a distinctive thank-you, hostess, or birthday gift, you’ll find it here.
Gem Set Love
720 N.W. 23rd Ave., Nob Hill
Home to thousands of pieces of fine vintage, antique, and estate jewelry, Gem Set Love (formerly known as Gilt) has been a destination for collectors and casual shoppers alike throughout its 20-plus years in Northwest Portland. Brides-to-be flock here from around the country for the impressive collection of estate engagement and wedding rings with stunning, well-preserved diamonds and precious stones, as well as bracelets, brooches, necklaces, and earrings, each in hard-to-find, if not totally individual designs. With prices ranging in the low hundreds to the several thousands, there really is something here for every budget. This is a reliable place to bring in your own well-loved jewelry for repairs, too.
The Athletic
925 N.W. 19th Ave., Nob Hill
Hilariously, this local bike shop made its mark with a bike sock featuring the pattern of Portland’s beloved airport carpet. Their gorgeously designed retail space is home to design-conscious bike gear and apparel, and it also serves as a small gallery space for owner Jeremy Dunn’s eclectic, sports-focused projects. He’s collaborated with local artists on limited-edition athletic wear, and put on quirky exhibitions, like last year’s display of vintage Blazers memorabilia from a friend’s garage.