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When it comes to finding unique gifts for all tastes and occasions, The Town is the place to look. We may not have your typical commercial malls, but to us, it is the surplus of mom-and-pop shops and POC-owned brick and mortars that spark all the joy and carry the best jems. Whether you are in search of a niche boutique selling gorgeous handcrafted jewelry, or an eclectic gift shop that’s candle, tech accessory and home decor galore, there is a perfect place for you. Here are eight unique gift shops all across the The Town that can help you take the stress out of shopping for people. This blog post may not include every gift shop in Oakland. We welcome you to share your favorites in the comments down below.

When people talk about Bay Area style, they are most likely talking about Oakland. With Oakland’s rich and diverse sense of style, you’ll find its denizens sporting everything from high-end designer goods to funky looks pieced together from whatever’s on hand. These days, several Oakland-based designers are at the

Oakland is certainly not a one-note town - its diversity and multicultural tapestry are legendary, and the creativity that flows from that influences everything in the city, including the vintage clothing stores.

And those aren’t one note either. Almost all feature additional temptations including vinyl records,

With the holidays just about here, instead of jumping into the crowd of people at the malls, shop local in Oakland for a more unique gift. No basic gifts out here! 

While nobody should leave Oakland without a "I Hella <3 Oakland" shirt, there is a little more to our shops than your typical souvenir tees. We've compiled a list of 8 shops that are definitely as unique and diverse as The Town itself, and should be added to any shopping itinerary during your visit.

Holiday shopping; its a war out there. Not literally of course but those Black Friday lines, the over aggressive shopper fighting you for the Tickle Me Elmo (or whatever the kids are playing with these days), the retail staff filled with anything but cheer, who needs it? Not Oakland, as evidenced by the 6^th annual Plaid Friday. Plaid Friday encourages holiday bargain hunters to shop locally and support independent Oakland businesses. The Oakland Grown event is always a hit in The Town and this year will be no different with over 40 local businesses participating. Get more info on Plaid Friday here but for now take a look at a few stores were jazzed about for the holiday.

Oaklanders are a crafty bunch who are working diligently to bring manufacturing back to their home town. And they are succeeding. Groups like the Oakland Makers, and Oakland Grown are acting as forums and incubators for creators. Check out these made-in-town pieces to get a taste of Oaklands manufacturer spirit.