Amazing stuff and the lady is a doll and so sweet with a great personality. Not to mention has a killer wedding dress. ;)

For many things mermaid, this is your spot. They have vintage clothing, local clothing and jewelry, scarves, corsets, candles, skulls, incense, boho chic type clothing items and even belly dancing wares!! I will definitely be back! It's a great shop for moms, daughters, aunts, grandmas, and godmothers and the like. Cute and quaint. But a lot to offer! read more

Beautiful store! Love the vibes and the clothing selection, really think the service is amazing-such a cute shop for unique pieces! I love it read more

Stephanie B needs to get over her woke self. My grandmother was Romani and actually of the "gypsy" people and she and my aunts and cousins actually called themselves that. I don't find it derogative at all. And also don't presume the "white woman" doesn't possess that heritage. I'm white and I've got loads of the blood in me. So quit judging when you don't know the whole story. read more

What a great shopping experience today. I've noticed this shop over the 4 years living here, but never stepped foot inside. Today I was shopping for a person who's challenging to buy for and decided to give Empress a shot. I'm so happy I did! Eclectic doesn't really do justice to this store. It is boho, sexy, esoteric, dazzling and everything in between. So many little accessories to look at, unique clothing, and spiritual items. The store owner is incredibly kind and was very helpful while helping me select gifts. She was also kind to my toddler, whom was well past nap time. I previously read a couple reviews that were negative. All I have to say is that some people just want to complain and be unhappy. I watched a few people walk in and out the door and the owner was nothing but gracious to them all. There are more subdued clothing items in the shop if you aren't into the boho glam/gypsy styling. I'd 100% recommend anyone to stop in take a look! read more

I was lured in by the sparkly clothing in the window. There was a clearance rack in the front of the store and I immediately found a dress and a shirt that I had to have. This is not your typical thrift store, nor is it your typical retail clothing store. This is your, "I'm a belly dancer that will eat fire and I need a perfect outfit to highlight my awesome talent" store. Not that I'm a belly dancer or eat fire. I loved looking through all the pretty things they carry for those that do. The care they take in selecting good quality, unique items is obvious. I found an adorable little 50's style polka dotted dress that fits like a glove for $25. The owner was very sweet and helpful. I will make it a habit to stop in as often as possible. read more

It isn't often that a shop makes me truly happy, but Empress did just that! We were lucky enough to find Empress when taking a rest stop in Placerville while on a road trip. Simply lovely shop! Items for every price range. My husband even found a scarf! We will be back~ read more

This is truly one of my favorite stores I've ever been to in all my life! It is in the heart of Placerville and in a really cool historic building. Karolina the owner has been there 20 years and is truly a goddess and empress and Gem! Everything in there is amazingly beautiful and Adorn and goddess wear! She carries jewelry clothing accessories Sage incense just about anything you could think of that a goddess/empress would need !!! read more

This shop is to die for!!! You really can't find anything more unique in this area. The owner is equally as amazing, she has such a keen eye for decor and fashion, I just love this place read more

Such a cute shop with lots of very nice things. Fun to look at and explore every time I come to town. They have some very unique gypsy, belly dancing and goddess outfits. Its different every time I come in. Jewelry and candles. Incense and oils. They have a little bit of everything I think they have a seamstress that can make custom items as well. If you are next door getting a juice or food or are walking through old Placerville walk down a bout further and come browse through here on the way in or out.... you won't be disappointed. read more

I am a firm believer that every small mountain (or foothill) town needs an eccentric hippie shop; luckily, historic Placerville has Empress to fill that requirement. I haven't been to Empress in YEARS and I'm glad to see it hasn't changed. It's the same cute and quirky shop I remember- it's like Garden of Enchantment in Old Sac, but without the intense claustrophobia-inducing cramped aisles. Empress has plenty of hippie, bohemian, and bellydancing clothes (because I am a perennial sucker for a colorful twirly maxi skirt) and some really neat vintage finds. I particularly like their selection of antique lingerie- meow! There is also beautiful jewelry, scarves, accessories, home decor, incense, journals, and even a tiny area for adult-themed gifts. The lady behind the counter was friendly and the prices were overall fair. Check Empress out! read more

Carolina deserves a THOUSAND STARS!!!! She is beautiful, professional, caring, well priced, savvy, and all of the employees are kind and courteous. This store has been around since I was a little girl and it has always been pure magic for my life. I literally cannot rave enough about Carolina and how beautiful her shop is. Many of her items are handmade and many come from all over the world-if you want to spoil yourself or the goddess you love with something unique, THIS is the right place to go!!! This store has it going on!!!! read more

What a great find! I was in Placerville to be a Gold Rush tourist. It is a beautiful old, historic town and I was pleasantly surprised to find this eclectic shop. What great fun clothes! Everything is glitter and sparkles with unique fabrics and original items. I love Bohemian shops and clothes and this one is above the rest. The owner is so fun and welcoming. You must stop in the Empress when in town. read more

Empress feeds to the actress in me. It speaks to my inner goddess with it's glittering, colorful, eclectic charms. It's rose/incense scent fills my nose with the possibilities of something beautiful every time I'm near. How can I resist visiting? Tucked down at the end of Main Street, as if Placerville has a dirty secret to keep, this store offers something unlike the others. It ranges from candles to belly-dancing clothing, paintings to flowered clips and 1950's clothing to tailored outfits. It makes me wonder, "if Stevie Nicks and Betsy Johnson had a baby, would this be it?" Empress is covered from head to toe in rich colors of the most random, yet appropriately fitting items, you might want. The owner is a beautiful, vibrant woman who took great joy is helping my mom and I shop. She gave us great suggestions, showed off her latest Burning Man outfit creation, and was an overall pleasure to spend 20 minutes with. I love my new Tiger's eye ring and the white feathered clip she suggested. My items together were $30. The prices here are reasonable, with nothing feeling unworthy of its price. Thank you, Empress, for existing. Every time I'm in Placerville, I will return. You have added color and flair to the world! read more

Great store to hit on the way to Tahoe. Make a point to stop and do some shopping. Years ago I stopped to find something to wear to a wedding and Carol had me decked out into the cutest outfit in about 20 minutes flat. Stoked. read more

Empress is a cute, eclectic shop full of bohemian, belly-dancing, gypsy inspired clothes and apparel. Also, along the left hand wall, as you enter, there is a slew of different incense, candles, knick-knacks, for your perusal. They carry a nice range of Amy Brown/Jessica Galbreth style artwork in the form of prints, and cards, so it's the perfect place to go if you need a gift for someone who is into the fairytale/fantasy scene (or for yourself!). The clerks are always friendly and helpful and there isn't anywhere else that sells such a wide range of unique and interesting apparel in the area. read more

I felt like I was on a episode of what would you do. On 8/5 me and my family walked into this store where we were completely ignored the person behind the counter was on the phone the whole time entire time we were there did not once greet us or asked if we needed anything we were looking at the jewelry right next to her and still not once a would you like to see anything? We asked her if we could see a item she handed it to use and resumed her phone conversation apologizing to the person on the other line like if we weren't paying customers in front of her while she is having this personal conversation. She was on the phone up until a white customer walked in then she quickly got off the phone and tended to her. When I finally got fed up with this discrimination they both looked at me like I was the crazy ma'am we were in your store for 15+ minutes with no help if my mom didn't have her eyes set already on this beautiful necklace I would've personally never given this place my money! read more

The girls who work here are RUDE. I have been in here 4 times now while on my lunch break and even though I smile and ask questions, I have yet to be acknowledged. They actually turn around and walk away. The cloths are fun if overpriced, and it has a cool vibe being in a historic building. Those things said, POOR COSTUMER SERVICE is the reason for the 1 star. read more

I love this shop. I have been going to Empress for over 10 years and I love the henna packages they have. The clothing is adorable too, but I come for the random things they have along the wall on the left side. So many hidden gems in this store. I wish there was one closer to where I am now. read more

So many beautiful things. Jewelry, Belly Dance costumes, Skirts, tops, etc. Definitely a fun place to shop, and Carolina is wonderful!!

Stopped in here only because I was walking my dog by the store. I liked smell of incense wafting from inside so I took a gander inside. I was captivated by bazillion items on the walls, hanging from the ceiling, on racks and shelves. It does cater to women but when the super friendly young lady appeared from behind a rack and said "good morning, you can bring your dog in if you'd like", I couldn't refuse. There were so many cool things in here, everytime I turned around I saw something I had not seen yet. Great skirts (going to stop by for mom's birthday present), incense, oils, henna tattoos, corsettes and the like. If you are looking for that Bohemian/Hippie look, this is a place you should definitely check out. Shout out to the young lady who was so friendly and showed me around and let my dog come in the store! People are nicer in Placerville! read more

Thanks for your help in finding a great gift today! I'll be back the next time I need something. Cool shop!

I absolutely love that store I'm from Oregon but everytime I am in Placerville which is often the first thing I do is go to that store anybody who likes unique Bohemian Gypsy hippie things should definitely stop by there. read more

If you are alive, you simply HAVE to go to this shop! Men, you will never go wrong for your gal. Ladies! You will never shop anywhere else! I could browse all day and night and still crave for more of these hand crafted delights: clothing, belly dancing attire, jewelry, incense, corsets, socks, scarves, costumes, vintage, shoes and I could go on and on. My favorite piece was the beautifully hand-made bed canopy! If you are near Placerville, CA, find this store, you will have the best day eva!!! read more

Here is a Treasure I discovered and very much worth exploring by yourself or with your friends. If you are traveling and are around the Placerville, CA area this is a must go to. All the staff is wonderful and very helpful. All the item that are here are so worth the trip. I went 3 time while in Placerville and found something each time I went. The tie-dye clothing is perfect. I found out that I love the style of the 60's. Also, if you want a Mermaid outfit she has one in stock along with the crown to match. Belly Dancing attire and so many other lovely items. It is fun to shop here with jewelry to match any personality, clothing that is new, vintage and just for fun clothes. Free parking across the street as well. After you've explored Empress go for a salad or sandwich right next to parking. $$ to $$$ read more

On a whim and in a hurry I purchased a top and skirt. I was excited, and as I got a call Sweetiepies had a table for me. I quickly made my purchase. A week after I took it out and looked at it on me again thinking I might wear it only to find that it wasn't complete. There was a portion missing on the ruffle on the top. I also found out I had breast cancer and ended up with surgery, with more treatment and surgery in the future. What some may not realize is that treatment and breast reconstruction can take 1-2 years depending on the procedures. I finally made it in to return the item. The owner stated that she didn't refund and referred to a sign....which was very small and covered up with a mask she had for sale. It was not mentioned during the purchase, nor was it prominently displayed. She offered to fix the item for me that was it, all she offered. I explained that I had breast cancer and for all I know I may not even have a cleavage. She replied that she would give me a credit and there were other items that wouldn't show a cleavage. I told her I really am not in a mood to be purchasing anything. Let's just say I left crying, with a card showing I have credit. Credit that I likely will never use because I have more important issues to take care of in my life right now. Not sure I will ever enter that store again. read more

I love this shop! On my one and only stroll through Placerville (this past Christmas Eve) I happened into Empress. You can tell that the proprietor Carolina really enjoys sending folks off with something they'll treasure. She was happy to hunt up a scarf in a particular color and make a deal for multiple purchases. The collection in this shop is empressive - I mean IMPRESSIVE! I don't think I saw a glimpse of bare wall. I was with family and didn't have much time and still walked out with 4 items I couldn't leave without. Unique items for the bohemian-chic at every turn. I can't wait to go back! :) read more

Beautiful shop with lots of irresistible treasures. The owner was so pleasant as well, I can't wait to come back.

Passing through Placerville and stopped at this beautiful shop! The owner was so sweet! Prices were very reasonable. I had someone waiting in the car for me - otherwise - I could have spent several hours in here. Loved this place! Smelled wonderful too! read more

What a great treasure in the middle of Placerville! Carolina Smith, the owner, is passionate and adorable. Her store is full of beutiful unique treasures, gypsy clothing, lingerie, exotic jewelry and my personal favorite, a ton of mermaid stuff. I highly recommend stopping by and checking The Empress out. It will not disappoint. read more

The most awesome store in northern California! The beautiful exotic clothing and gifts just have to be seen. Carolina's vintage and unique treasures are exceptional and she is the most friendly shop owner in all of placerville. Don't pass this one up! read more

For all you men! Its the one stop shop for the woman in your life! Friendly and helpful especially for a guy like me that is always at a loss for what to get my girl. read more

If you ever wanted to know what the inside of Jeannie's bottle looks like, visit The Barefoot Empress. A simply magical place from the moment you set foot in the door. I notice something new every time I visit....which is not nearly enough! Whether it be shopping for performance wear, eclectic accessories, sexy lingerie, or a unique gift, The Empress beats any gift shop.....hands down! read more

boho to the max. its like the 1970s are back! and they really are, with peasant blouses on runways, this store must be doing well. its just plain fun and good especially for younger women. indulge your inner hippy. read more