A day in Phoenix: Indie Shopper

10 a.m. Get up and throw something on. Wear something easy to get in and out of  (a dress and flip-flops?) , you’re going to be trying on clothes.

11 a.m. Head to Central and Camelback to Frances Vintage for a great accessories and gift selections. Some things you’ll find:  Cool, arty dresses and tops, vintage picks, handmade accessories, and eclectic home items.

Next door, stop into Stinkweeds, one of the best local music stores in town. Listen to the newest indie albums or peruse their flyers for upcoming shows and events.

One door down: Red Hot Robot. Get inspired by their collection of vinyl toys, books and other Japanese-inspired accessories.

Next up, get a mid-morning pick-me-up at Smeeks, the cute candy shop at the end of the row.

12:30 p.m. Head a mile or so down Central to Pane Bianco, of Bianco’s Pizzaria fame, for a delicious sandwich and a Bubble Up.

If you’re a sweetie person (like me), stop next door at Lux for a baked treat. My suggestion: Anything with chocolate and/or peanut butter.

1:30 p.m. A block or so down the road, check out Vintage Fashion, Inc.  for an amazing mix of designer vintage ranging from barely-affordable to not-so-much. Walk a few steps to Central Consignment next door for a brand names at discount prices.

2:00 p.m. More vintage. Head a few miles west to Hollywood Regency and peruse their selection of retro classic clothing for men and women.

Across the street: Retro Ranch for a funky collection of well-priced vintage fashions, furniture and home decor.

3:30 p.m. Stop off at Grand Ave. – home of vintage shop, Butter Toast.

Grab an iced tea next door at Paisley Violin and sit on the patio (October-May) or inside (June-Sept) and think about your purchases.

4:30 p.m. Downtown is a little sparse, but you can still check out some locally made items at
Bunky Boutique and Made.

Happy hour – You’ve been living la vida retro all day, stay in that mood with a martini from Durant’s. All it takes is one.

6:30 p.m. Take the 20-minute trip to Scottsdale. Work up an appetite trolling Scottsdale Fashion Square, home of some great high and low-end shopping.

For big spenders: Barney’s, Neiman Marcus, and Kate Spade.
For the spend-thrifts: Forever21, Charolette Russe and coming soon — H&M.

8 p.m. Depending on the damage you’ve incurred throughout your day, you might choose a less expensive dining option, like the home-style fare at Orange Table, or splurge a little at new (and much talked about) FnB for some gourmet fare.