Fashion & Style - Ranch & Coast

Best Jewelry:
Tiffany & Co.
Everyone knows what’s inside that little blue box — history. A history of quality, a history of pride, a history craftsmanship. In fact, Tiffany’s is so revered, the United States hired the company in 1885 to design the national seal — yes, the one you see on the back of the dollar bill. Where some stores specialize in stones, and some in precious metals, Tiffany’s does it all, from sterling silver, to glittering gold, to the finest diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and more. (800/843-3269, www.tiffany.com) — Alicia Garcia

Best Denim Selection:
L.A. Fairchild Denim Bar
San Diego fashionistas are saddling up to the bar and putting in their orders for True Religion, Chip and Pepper, and 7 Diamonds. No, these aren’t the latest cocktails but rather some of the hottest names in designer jeans, and they — among 40 other highly sought-after brands — can be found in Cardiff-by-the-Sea at the Denim Bar, a saloon-style boutique dedicated to, well, denim. The brainchild of Laura Fairchild, who also owns the adjacent L.A. Fairchild Boutique, the Denim Bar boasts "bartenders" who work one-on-one with customers, editing an extensive collection of 150 styles to serve up suggestions for jeans that flatter individual’s body types. Featuring a plasma TV and pool table, the Denim Bar is as appealing to men as women. Pure jean-ius. (760/487-1277, www.lafairchild.com) — Lois Alter Mark

Best Children’s Apparel:
Sweet Pea
The best dressed kids in town shop at Sweet Pea, a stylish boutique featuring the latest styles for children from infant to size 14 girls and size 8 boys. Specializing in European designers like Burberry, Escada, Mona Lisa, and Il Gufo, the shop offers a number of exclusive brands. "Friends come in to shop together and they get so excited when we show them the new arrivals," says Leah Reynolds, manager of the family-owned business. (858/481-0683) — Lois Alter Mark

Best Store For Men’s Apparel:
Ascot Shop
Since the 1950s, The Ascot Shop on Girard has been the go-to place for business professionals and fashion forward gents looking for the latest styles. Collections range from three-piece suits (ask about their tailoring service) to sweaters, dress shirts, and fine accessories such as belts and ties. Throw in some Hawaiian prints for those cocktail hours, and the spectrum is covered. Brand names run the gamut from Talbot to Corneliani to Hickey-Freeman. "We offer great quality merchandise," says owner Bill White, "but more importantly offer great service. We take care of our clients." (858/454-4222, www.ascotshop.com)
— Ryan Thomas

Best Formal Wear &
Best Women’s Apparel:
Neiman Marcus
Neiman Marcus is a one-stop shop for social San Diegans. Whether you’re looking for a cocktail dress or a dazzling gala gown, you’re sure to find something among the many designer lines such as Dolce & Gabbana, Donna Karan Collection, Escada, Vera Wang, Versace, and Yves Saint Laurent, to name a few. Plus, with Neiman’s frequent fashion shows, you can even view the looks firsthand for inspiration. (619/692-9100, www.neimanmarcus.com) — Mia Stefanko

Best Shoes (Women And Men):
Nordstrom
It’s no shock that Nordstrom was voted best retailer for both men’s and women’s shoes. Those who love Nordies know that it started as a single shoe store in Seattle in 1901, with a philosophy based upon exceptional service, selection, quality, and value. This mantra holds true over 100 years later, as loyal clients return time and time again not only for the myriad designer lines ranging from athletic shoes to Steve Madden to Hugo Boss, Prada, and Jimmy Choo, but also for the top notch customer service, pleasant atmosphere, and live piano tunes. (888/282-6060, www.nordstrom.com)
— Jane Shiomi