Ambiance

Very cute store with a fun mix of San Luis Obispo merch, Halloween decorations, planters, cards,…read morevintage clothes, and housewares. I got a sweatshirt! It's definitely pretty pricey, but it's fun to look around and you might find a cute little souvenir.

The feel of this store is so cohesive. They have plants, plant pots, vintage clothing, jewelry, and…read moreother lifestyle items. Very trendy spot!

San Luis Obispo sweatshirts Home of the California Cowboy America's Happiest City

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Nordstrom Rack

3.2(22 reviews)

1.5 mi

Passing through town and we eyed the Nordstrom Rack sign while traveling on Highway 101. We decided…read moreto stop since the Hubs needed a belt. We dropped in on a weekday early evening. It was located in a complex with other stores such as Cost Plus. The Nordstrom Rack interior was modern, clean and organized. A lot of square footage too. It had a large inventory. Not sure if this was the norm or just caught them on a good day after restocking. Hubs left empty handed. But not me. I scored. Bought a few Caslon brand tops at bargain prices. And we hopped back onto Highway 101. By the way, the shopping complex is across the street from the iconic Madonna Inn. A

I thought I would give them another try. I purchased some jewelry here only for the color to last a…read moreweek. Manager tells me well it's costume jewelry, well no **** Sherlock, but it should last longer than a week. After having to go to bat they advised they would return. Although it was well within the 40 day window they didn't want to because it was worn. Well sorry, you need to stand behind the quality of your product! Be very mindful of their return policy! If they don't stand behind their product and you used your credit card, go right to the credit card company! Horrible value for only lasting a couple wears. If you are looking for cheaper jewelry, TJ Maxx is a much better solution and lasts much longer!

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LuLu Luxe

3.7(95 reviews)

0.1 mi

If i could give this place 10 stars i would! the clothing was amazing but the atmosphere made this…read moreworth the stop. Ruby and Charlie were so kind and made this shopping experience one of a kind

I love this store! Every time that i visit SLO i go there and find some of my favourite clothes…read more The girls who work there, Gee and Adalina, are so nice and fun! The clothes not too cheap but not too pricey

Classic!

Thank you Cal Poly for consistently voting us best of SLO!

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Humankind Fair Trade

4.9(36 reviews)

Love love love this beautiful store! I was strolling around downtown San Luis Obispo with friends,…read moreand had to pop in here. The store is so lovely, and they had a terrific selection of items, gifts, fun accessories and products. I love sending cards, and I was so happy to discover their selection of fair trade greeting cards. The cards are created by women who have escaped sex trafficking in the Philippines. I adore giving these cards to people and slapping the cute fair trade sticker on the cards to support these efforts and spread the word. This store does amazing work, and I will continue to shop there and will also order their products online! Highly highly recommend!

Amazing place to buy gifts. The store is organized in such an aesthetic and calming way. Highly…read morerecommend you walk through this store.

Interior

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Interior

Anthropologie

4.6(8 reviews)

0.1 mi

Service - as traditional as Anthro is, good service…read more Selection - lots of women items. Minimal home items but they do have some. Ceramicware, candles and holders and knock knacks. Value - premium priced but quality that you know and trust from this place

I have had a love-hate relationship with Anthropologie, ever since I first discovered the store…read more The creativity of the displays is always a fascinating draw, which lures me in to look at the merchandise, much of which is beautifully decorative yet functional. I love the patterns and design of their clothing and home goods, but sometimes the construction of the garments or the detail of the ceramics make then less than useful. The size consistency across their brands is also a bit challenging, so either reading the online reviews of clothing, or trying it on in person is a must. I do love most of products I have gotten at the stores, but I always feel that I need to critically appraise each item before I buy it. The SLO store is smaller than the other two "neighborhood" stores in Santa Barbara and Carmel, and the merchandise seems to be geared more toward a college crowd. Since half the populace here is in college, this may be appropriate. My recent visit turned up some denim togs suitable for students, and some brightly colored small housewares. I will continue to cruise through here in search of good design!

Display

Interior

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Interior

Trio Boutique

4.8(10 reviews)

Wow did I ever get lucky to land in this store! We are only…read morespending a few days in SLO and I decided rather than wait in line for the movie To move around! Not wanting to spend money lol I was able to have a super duper talk with owner! While poking around and buying these fantastic hair clips and pony holders and earrings, I realized how reasonable their prices were! This am I figured I'm going back to buy my Xmas Presents! Highly recommend you check them out!!!

I visited Trio on my way to Santa Maria and loved this boutique! Have really cool stuff and was…read moreable to pick up a few items for myself and girlfriends but i think it will all end up for myself!! Very helpful, warm and friendly service. Will make it a MUST STOP now when i am going that direction from Northern CA!

Clothing Jewelry Gifts

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New location!

Francesca's

4.5(13 reviews)

0.1 mi

My daughter loves this store. Its the only place she asks for giftcards from. The co-manager…read moreGenevieve is so helpful and kind. I managed to walk out with 4 pairs of holiday earrings for $20! The store is clean and she even told me that it is double points this week, so my daughter can earn store credit just by shopping there. We have not had a single bored disinterested store representative that looks up from their phone as if you are a bother. They understand customer service. We will be shopping there again.

I just love Francesca's and I was so happy to find one in SLO since the Bakersfield location…read moreclosed. Genevieve helped my mom and I and she was so kind and sweet! She truly made us feel at home. Everytime I would try on something, she would come by and compliment as well as give me ideas about how to style it! She is amazing and I hope she is still there when I come back to SLO next time!

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Finders Keepers

4.6(43 reviews)

0.0 mi

I have committed to being more mindful of my buying habits. And, one of those is - buying quality…read moreclothing and not fast fashion. Enter: Finders Keepers. But, on top of being able to buy quality pre-owned clothes and shoes, the shop assistants are the best. I walked in without much direction, but I knew I needed something for work. They asked questions without being pushy. They made suggestions without any judgement. Go to this place. It's amazing!

while they are nice, you would be better off to sell on marketplace, I ended up getting 5 dollars…read morefor a expensive pair of shoes. Never again!

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French Quarter

3.6(36 reviews)

Really loved this store! I've only been in the SLO area a few times so I've been trying to venture…read morearound more. I stopped at a bookstore across the street and this little boutique caught my eye. The girl working(I'm so upset I can't remember her name) was so sweet and very nice about which sales were going on. (And she wasn't pushy about it either like most sales workers are) The clothes are extremely cute and it was hard walking out of there without taking everything. Outside of clothing, they also have shoes, jewelry, bags, and misc items (candles, plaques, water bottles, you name it!) I ended up leaving with a really soft, striped long sleeve and a wooden plaque that read "This is a reminder to breathe" (something that really spoke to me at the time with what I had going on in my personal life - it was a sign!) I've been extremely satisfied with my purchase and would definitely return

Olivia was so helpful when I was trying to pick out a cardigan, she really helped me in…read moreunderstanding my budget and style. I had such a wonderful experience and will be coming back. I love the selection of jewelry and variety of clothing but the customer service is what will keep me coming back!

Window Displays and Large Handbag Selection 3-5-11

Very me.

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Accessories (Cashier Counter)

Summerland Co.

5.0(6 reviews)

Any time I'm in the downtown area, I always make sure I go into this store. The clothes are…read moreadorable and reasonably priced. There's also a wonderful selection of various items to gift a friend or yourself. The staff is always friendly and I enjoy seeing any new items the store has.

The service was so nice. One of the lady's was so sweet. They have very good options for jelly…read morecats. I got a pink macron heart for my sister once and she loved it! And the values pretty good for jelly cat's. So over all pretty great.

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20 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Jayne W.

299

8 years ago

Historically, I've had a tendency to be a bargain shopper, but I stopped that when I realized the items off the sale rack were costing me more in wasted money for poor quality and poor fitting clothes. Now, I save my money and spend it on quality product that fits me properly, looks great and lasts much longer. Changing my old habits was hard, but I learned this from shopping at Ambiance. Now, I rely exclusively on their personal shopping experience. I've shopped at many high-end stores, and I've never been able to rely on the help the way I can at Ambiance. Typically, we women walk in a store, browse items, make our selections, then ask for new sizes or colors once in the dressing room. We do this because we've done it this way for years and because we can't really trust the shopping attendant to make selections for us. Ambiance is the game-changer. When I walk in, I let them know why I'm shopping--whether for an event, for work, for play or for a date. Then I let them select what will look great on me. They're happy to fill my room with options then take away items that don't work. No one knows their product better than the staff there. Every time I buy a cheap t-shirt from another store, I'm reminded that it lasts a season whereas the ones I buy from Ambiance last years and years. One of their key benefits is that they'll show me 3 or 4 ways to wear an outfit and how to accessorize it to maximize my wardrobe. This is a tremendous value I've never experienced anywhere else as competently. Sidebar - If notice yourself feeling pressured to buy (whether internal or external), just remember your budget and let the staff know. They're human, and we all have limits. Be clear. From a reformed discount shopper to a dedicated Ambiance fan, I'll encourage you to retrain your shopping habits and trust in their system. You'll save yourself a LOT of money in the long-run and look incredible while you're at it. read more

Jade A.

346

15 years ago

I've always wanted a reason to shop at Ambiance, and I finally found one in a $200 gift certificate. I'm usually a really frugal shopper, I started out in the sale section which had enormous markdowns on brands I love like Free People and Desigual. Then a salesperson found me, Victoria was her name. I usually shop alone, so naturally I felt a little uncomfortable, but Victoria had great style herself, was bubbly and interested in what event I was shopping for ( my birthday party ), and was super complimentary. She brought me a pair of heels so I could really see how the clothes would fall. Thanks to her, I left with a stunning FP dress that I'll be able to wear in any season, and they have layaway so I'll be back soon! I left a ring in the fitting room and because they take your info, I got a call hours later telling me to come by for it. Hands down, best customer service I've ever had at a boutique. Thanks Victoria! read more

Lauren W.

17 years ago

The most incredible boutique I've found in California yet. From the ultra feminine decor to the architectural interest of the building itself... Just walking in the door is a pleasure. And the clothing ranges from classic, vintage and one-of-a-kind, to contemporary. I've bought things here for every possible occasion- weddings, yoga wear, work wear, and everyday casual. Also all of their jewelry is locally made, which I love to support. And they've started to carry more and more green and fairtrade products. Super cool, and knowledgeable ladies to help and go the extra mile to make me feel special. Sometimes pricey, but you definitely get what you pay for. Plus they have an in-house designer, which is unlike anything I've found in any other store. She was able to customize a skirt to fit me while I waited. Amazing. Ambiance is more of an overall experience than just a store. read more

Michelle G.

7 months ago

Looking for a well crafted experience curated just for you? All while supporting an all women owned Brick and Mortar?? Ambiance in San Luis Obispo is just that and so much more. Earlier this year - I had the opportunity to rebrand myself. I had a friend go in during the day to look at options. When I arrived in the evening, Kaya had a dressing room filled with several different options. The attention and thoughtfulness to make sure I felt good as well as looking amazing was beyond. Im Petite so finding the right fit can be challenging- before I left , I casually said if something comes in you think would be perfect - please reach out. Recently Kaya did just that - I asked her to send some pictures. She did, it led me back in and I found an outfit for event I have later this year. Shop Local - Support your Community read more

S. W.

13 years ago

I used to enjoy shopping at Ambiance before it moved across the street, but the last five or so times I've been there, I've left in a hurry without buying anything because the sales people are overly aggressive, hovering as I shop, watching to see what my eye lands on, then recommending items for me to try that I would never in my life consider wearing. When I shop for clothing, I just want to browse in peace; I know what I like, what looks good on me. I do not want items pushed at me so that the store increases its sales. It's painfully obvious to observe. That said, if I need another size or a recommendation from a sales person, it's nice to have someone available who can find what I want and give honest opinions. Not everything I try on looks "so awesome" on me. read more

Carla W.

15 years ago

I love this store! It is really the only place to shop in town for quality women's clothes, shoes and accessories. The girls that work here are so nice and not pushy at all, but when I wanted help picking out an outfit they were so helpful! It was like have my own personal shoppers! I love all of the Free People they have and I love that they carry local clothing and jewelry designers. They have a huge selection, my mother in law and my grandmother both found things they loved when I brought them in last, and my friends and I come here when we need something sexy to go out in. I'm so glad we have Ambiance in SLO!! read more

Jade T.

15 years ago

I feel like I could try on a burlap sack and the girls would tell me i look like a supermodel. I understand the business is about sales, but it should also be about customer service and making sure the customer feels confident in what they are wearing. If you ever shop in Ambiance you will constantly hear the girls telling potential customers how amazing they look, even if something is the wrong size/color/whatever for them. A little honesty goes a long way in retail and Ambiance should take that into consideration. read more

Julie S.

2 years ago

I purchased a beautiful pair of boots recently that I absolutely adore. They are exclusive so I love knowing they are original. The entire team at Ambiance always provides such quality customer care and a high level of personalization. It's my favorite place to shop on the Central Coast. Everyone at the store is amazing from the owner to the stylists, I know I'm in good hands. read more

Kathy D.

11 years ago

I am a picky shopper -- purchasing goods made in America and fashionable has been a journey! Ambiance carries a beautiful fashion line with many styles 'Made in the USA' so I am in good company as I applaud their efforts to not only maintain the small town/slotown feel of downtown but extend the 'Americana' that I enjoy! Thank you. read more

Nancy S.

1 year ago

Ambiance caries the best cloths for both work and play! But the best part of an Ambiance experience is the people! I know many of them personally and the keep their eyes out for items they know I may like! Shopping at Ambiance a wonderful way to spend the afternoon with friends! read more

allison b.

5 years ago

I received the best customer service I've ever had at ambiance, I can tell that service is their focus, beautifully curated products and pieces I will use indefinitely. read more

Tanya P.

2 months ago

There're many beautiful pieces at the store and the lady named "Pam" is very nice , always happy to help while i was there.

Lisa H.

5 years ago

Visit this store every time we are in SLO. Unique store. Great style. Great ambiance. Great service. Super cute clothes. read more

Sarah R.

Elite 24

533

215

730

7 years ago

Jameere is such a helpful sales person! I felt Like he was there to help me shop, as if he was my Personal shopper!! read more

Georgia H.

6 years ago

Not what I expected. They staff is rude. Prices way to high. I am going on line where I will be treated better

Beth L.

16 years ago

love this store, it's one of my favs in SLO county, and the prices are great too.

Ashley R.

224

13 years ago

My parents aren't rich so I can't afford to shop here. CUTE DRESSES THOUGH :[

Danielle L.

181

4 years ago

Great price (on sale) and quick delivery all the way to Alaska!

Tiffany H.

5 years ago

I didn't love the selection when I visited

Kelly B.

5 years ago

Bad experience. Wouldn't recommend.

Ambiance - womenscloth - Updated October 2026

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Apropos

3.2

(34 reviews)

•$$$

The owners of this store used to have a boutique called "Up Your Alley," which was one of the most…read moreimaginative stores in town. Apropos follows that trend by featuring lavishly embroidered clothes with a romantic and retro vibe. The mother-daughter team who are often present, are fun and full of information on the clothing lines, which no other store in town carry. There is a full range of sizes here. I often buy what become my most basic staples for my wardrobe here, and thanks to the little pink sales notices that appear in my mail box, I often score a sale. I am currently sporting a pair of perfectly fitting jeans with black embroidery and "jewels" up the side that mimic a pair of Versace jeans I flirted with in Las Vegas. These are much more practical and will survive many seasons. I have also gotten black stretch jeans that fit like a glove and lasted forever, or at least more than one year. One of my pals got what became her "go-to" shirt, a navy blue silk smock with a deep V neck, embroidered with flowers and fruit. Apropos also has perhaps the best stock of bridesmaid or mother of the bride type dresses in town. These romantic gowns range flirty to fabulous and are sure to flatter. These are practical clothes with a touch of glamour. My most recent purchase is a "costume fur" chinchilla vest that reverses to a sport vest with a reversable zipper. This has been by constant companion this cold, wet winter. If you are in town, be sure to peruse their lovely and romantic merchandise.

I stop by after I've been to the SLO rep. I usually find something and on sale. I have purchased…read moreover the year, nice dresses for weddings etc. Have always greet me and ask if I need help. Lots of jewelry also available. Nice shop, great merchandise is always on sale, so some good bargains.

Blackwater

4.0

(59 reviews)

The feel of this store is so cohesive. They have plants, plant pots, vintage clothing, jewelry, and…read moreother lifestyle items. Very trendy spot!

Collections Clothing Boutique

3.7

(73 reviews)

Adrian Hernandez Collections fine jewelry…read more Repairs, custom, batteries, Rolex Buy Gold, Silver, Diamonds

AVOID!!! The owner…read moreis absolutely horrible. She has ZERO customer service skills. I just witnessed her talk absolutely disrespectful to a customer returning an item. I left and will not be returning. I absolutely will not support this wicked lady's business and neither should you.

RoCoco Luxe Boutique, New & Resale

4.8

(39 reviews)

This was my second time at the boutique and I found exactly what I was looking for! I needed a…read moresolid black top or dress to be paired with an accessory that I haven't been able to wear because I didn't have the right garment. I found the perfect little black dress on the rack. - I also purchased a summer top, something casual and simple and it was half off! The staff is so welcoming, communicative and works really hard to help you find whatever you're looking for. I look forward to returning.

Very stale, dusty place with old looking clothing. Great if your shopping for a person 50+…read more Staff (which I believe was the owner) gave terrible service. Hate to say it but move along.

Finders Keepers

4.6

(43 reviews)

while they are nice, you would be better off to sell on marketplace, I ended up getting 5 dollars…read morefor a expensive pair of shoes. Never again!

Len Collective

4.4

(35 reviews)

Gorgeous collection of small -mostly fine- jewelry from small businesses designers. I wish I could…read morebuy everything but for now I just like to pop in and look. Staff is always welcoming, friendly, knowledgeable and attentive.

Service was excellent and the selection has improved. The items on the pricey side but well curated.read more

Humankind Fair Trade

4.9

(36 reviews)