Shandrydan

Forget the disappointing department stores at the Capitola Mall and try Shandrydan. I've always liked this store - even before the '89 earthquake in its old location. In fact, when I got my ears pierced there at the tender age of 8, I thought to myself, when I grow up, I'll buy my clothes here. Well, apparently it took another 25 years for that to happen and here I am, 33 and a fan of Shandrydan.

The clothes run the gamut from polished professional to laid-back-yet- stylish-mama to sexy-yet-classy lady. The pieces are unique yet moderately priced. Wearing their clothing and accessories make me feel all grown up yet still cute. I prefer to say "age appropriate" for the over 30 crowd rather than "mature". I'm not ready for mature yet.

A quiet shop with helpful staff ... they feature upscale ladies clothing for a more mature demographic.  

Their clothing can run the extreme of either too dowdy or too arty but I have found the occasional interesting piece here.  A classic cut black silk skirt, for example...  or a pashmina shawl in the perfect shade of yellow.  They also have an excellent selection of unique, refined artisan jewelry.  

Be sure to check the sale racks.   One in the front and a rounder in the very back.