Advertising Feature: This article is not produced by the newsroom. It is editorially independent of both the newsroom and any one advertiser.
Many travelers rate shopping as a top activity while on vacation or as a special treat during work trips. It’s often relaxing to leisurely browse stores and discover unique items not found in your own town.
The Monterey area beckons with a terrific variety of shops, be it downtown Monterey with independent stores lining Alvarado Street or Carmel-by-the-Sea where its galleries and studios display works of more than 100 local artists.
Go off the beaten path, too, and explore these special spots.
Cypress Boutique Monterey
Mary Ojugo describes her business simply as selling “women’s and men’s clothing and accessories.” But customers shopping her Lighthouse Avenue store or online site will find more than that — Ojugo also offers complimentary personal stylist services.
“I strive to empower women and men to wear clothes that make them feel confident and look their best,” said the Monterey Peninsula native. “From the moment you walk into my shop, you’re immersed in a world of creative expression and statement pieces.”
In a fun touch, there are multiple rooms in the store, and each is decorated in a unique theme. A men’s ranch wear section, for example, boasts wall and ceiling forestscape murals and a faux grass floor.
It’s difficult to define a specific fashion style here, given the eclectic mix ranging from graceful elegance, to bohemian, contemporary, vintage, whimsical, rugged and flirty.
For women, a Belle’s Tassel Knit Vest is a lovely, lightweight crochet knit trimmed with long, tassel detailing that swings as you walk ($74). But…