It’s no secret Greater Des Moines has some of the best local shops to hit up all day every day, not just Small Business Saturday. And they aren’t all clothing boutiques tailored to modern-day females (although we have lots of good ones for that too.) Find your next go-to general store, your next best read or that hard-to-find vinyl. These places, as voted on by locals, are sure to give you the retail therapy you desperately need.
Hinge
OK, ladies, good luck walking out of this charming house-turned-boutique without finding a must-have item. As soon as you enter, you’ll be surrounded by a wonderland of boho chic clothes and accessories (most under $50), modern farmhouse home décor and more. If you think you’ve seen it all, you haven’t. Take a stroll up the stairs to the second floor to find more you didn’t know you needed, including a sale rack and cute vintage items for the kids’ room.
Fontenelle Supply Co.
Cuz we’re the three best friends that anyone could have...and we started our own company! The owners at this hip East Village shop share the values of a Midwestern upbringing and high-quality American manufacturing, which you’ll find in their menswear. They have shirts with rocking Japanese tigers, but you can also still do the classic flannel look, if that’s more your vibe. Think hipster lumberjack chic. And let's not forget some good old fashioned leather items, from wallets and flasks to a custom-made axe sheath!
DSM Mercantile
It’s not just local clothing boutiques, we also have a local one-stop-shop general store to bring you back to the simpler times in life. Just what we all need from time to time. You’ll find items for your home, kitchen, desk, and even some local honey in this charming, highly Instagrammable Highland Park spot.
Real Deals Ankeny
Here’s the real deal, it’s trendy and it’s affordable. Those two things can co-exist! The inventory changes weekly, so you must be quick on your feet if you want to snag the newest piece of home décor or trendy top that’s going to spark conversation with your guests. No need to go to L.A. to find the coolest trends, they do it for you with their new weekly fashion and accessories inventory.
Vinyl Cup Records
Vinyl and brews, what a delightful sounding (and tasting) combo! No counter and no posters in a record store? Better see it to believe it. This unique spot will have you sippin’ on a local craft beer or coffee while you connect with others over your love for music. Take your vinyl for a test drive in a cozy and vibrant listening room. This is an unpretentious and comfortable experience where you’ll find everything from rare hidden gems to the newest releases.
West End Salvage
Are you looking for a showstopping home décor piece that you’d typically only find on the east or west coast, or even overseas? Save the travel and shipping because these guys have it handled. Four huge floors of unique and never boring treasures reside here. If it sounds familiar, it’s because they were featured on their eponymous show on HGTV for two seasons. So go find inspiration in the form of the unexpected, from lamps and tables to one of the best cups of coffee in town!
Preservation
If you’re into vintage everything, look no further than Preservation for their blend of modern and vintage. These one-of-a-kind pieces of clothing and accessories will speak to your inner fashionista (or have you rethink your pandemic sweatpants chic-style). There is also a photography studio on-site, where you can schedule a timeless yet modern photo shoot.
Bing
Ever have trouble finding the perfect gift for that one friend, family member or coworker who has it all? Do you prefer funny gifts that will have everyone rolling? That’s exactly what you’ll find at this Valley Junction favorite. Cat in space mug? Yep! Freddy Mercury jigsaw puzzle? If you’ve dreamt of it in some weird fever dream, they probably have it on a coffee mug, koozie or dish towel.
Bozz Prints
White you’re in Valley Junction, make sure to check out this hip shop founded by John Bosley, inspired by his love of travel, architecture, and the iconic scenery around us. And we’re here for it! Find prints to hang, t-shirts to wear, coffee mugs to drink out of, and stickers for your beer fridge that feature Midwest landmarks we know and love. He even designed the Drake Bulldogs basketball teams’ uber-popular hometown jerseys; and you can pick up the T-shirt version of that in the store. If you don’t find what you want, there’s a custom design opportunity waiting to happen.
Active Endeavors
Calling all active families and Iowans! Find all your outdoor apparel and equipment at this West Des Moines store. With a staff that’s as knowledgeable and friendly as they are adventurous (“trekking in the Himalayas” adventurous), they will outfit you with best digs the industry has to offer. Think “locally owned-REI", with brands like Patagonia, North Face, Prana, and Yeti. Their end of season sales are some of the best deals you’ll ever find on your favorite brands.
Art Terrarium
Liven up your workspace or home with a wide variety of houseplants, terrariums and planters. Not sure how to care for your new plant buddy, no worries! Art Terrarium will help you care for your new friend. And get this, they even offer full-service plant styling! Stop in to find your favorites or something new and rare that will really tie the room together.
Beaverdale Books
The age-old question: What’s a good book to read? Step inside this cozy corner, independent bookstore to find books by Iowa authors, do-it-yourself, and health and fitness. There’s just something about perusing a locally owned bookstore you can’t replicate with Amazon. If you can’t find your next best read in their variety of books, they’ll happily order it for you!
Eden
You just found your new go-to gift store and self-care shop, you’re welcome. This apothecary sources its products from around the world and specializes in self-care rituals. You know you’re doing something right when you get a shout from the queen of Instagram, Chrissy Tiegen. Staff will make you feel special and unique, just like their products. Treat yo’ self or treat others!
KIN
Where: 333 E Grand Avenue, Suite 106, Des Moines
KIN is a modern mystical shop in the East Village that specializes in vintage and custom jewelry. If you need rings, bracelets, earrings, or necklaces, they’ve got it all. Looking for more? They also have candles, books, décor, crystals, as well as so many other things.
