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UWISHUNU philly from the inside out

May 21, 2013

May 20, 2013

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If the spirit of Philadelphia is independence, then Philadelphia’s independently operated shops reflect that spirit. These Philly retailers are steadfast fixtures in their shops, offering customers not just a sense of the latest styles, but also personal service that’s downright old-fashioned.

Featured Listings

  • Ps and Qs

    Mind your apparel, guys

    At this new menswear boutique, heritage brands—Herschel Supply Co., Pendleton—share racks with trendy labels—Norse Projects, Warriors of Radness. Each piece has been thoroughly vetted to be on point, right down to the stripes on the Richer Poorer socks and the masculine scents of the rugged candles.

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  • Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

    Gear up for outdoor adventures

    The adventure lover’s go-to store, EMS lines its shelves and racks with durable hiking, camping and biking gear, plus footwear and clothing. College IDs get students 20% off full-price EMS-brand items and 15% off national brands.

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  • Urban Outfitters

    Hometown of the popular clothing and houseware chain

    People head to this bi-level shop for all-things urban cool, including men’s and women’s fashions, as well as funky housewares. The store receives many of the chain’s most up-to-date items, thanks to the fact that its headquarters calls Philly home.

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  • Piper Boutique

    Dress up with all-natural clothing

    The stock changes daily at this all-natural women’s clothing boutique, the first location outside of New York. Piper Boutique celebrates rustic style and textile traditions, and the staff is devoted to personalized attention for all customers.

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  • American Apparel

    Simple tees made in the USA

    American-made basics abound in a rainbow of colors at the University City location of this scenester-approved outfitter. All clothing is made in the United States.

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  • Philadelphia Runner

    Run a few miles in their shoes

    Started by two hometown runners, this shop carries shoes, apparel and accessories to maximize running and walking performance. Center City and suburban locations extend the running mindset.

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  • Wilbur: Vintage & Designer Clothing

    A jewel-box boutique brimming with vintage treasures

    Mod leopard print chapeaus, retro Comme des Garçons pantaloons and mint condition Bottega Veneta pumps populate the racks of this owner-operated boutique. Accessories are of particular note here.

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  • Retrospect

    Curated vintage threads, embellishments and home goods

    Thrift store-weary patrons gladly pay a few bucks more to snatch up the carefully chosen pieces at this hipster boutique. Among the finds are brightly printed sweaters, mid-century modern home furnishings, metallic pumps, retro aprons and plaid flannel shirts.

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  • Philly AIDS Thrift

    A treasure hunter’s delight

    Cooler than the average charity secondhand store, this chock-full venue sells gently used everything at very low prices for a very good cause. Neighbors who stop by to drop off donations often can’t help but pick up a few things on their way out.

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  • Decades Vintage

    Racks and racks of retro apparel and accessories

    Mint condition, estate sale-gleaned garments fill this Fabric Row shop. Shoppers who don’t see the retro pantsuit of their dreams can simply ask omniscient owner Lisa Miroslaw to hunt down just the right pieces.

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