between Franklin and Webster
SOBO ~ South of Broadway ~ Oakland
Formed in May of 2006, we are the newest Merchants Association in Oakland. The acronym, SOBO, emerged from locals referring to this street as "the SOHO of Oakland. The area practically glows with personality.
On the main block there are more than a dozen women proprietors. Each small shop is tended by the owner. In only a few cases are there likely to be hired staff greeting you as you enter. The ambiance is friendly, one-on-one, neighborly, and admittedly, even proudly, urban.
The shopping experience is not limited to street-level. One exciting women's clothing boutique, Underground Treasures (ElTyna McCree, proprietor), got it's start in the basement! Now at street level, ElTyna offers one-of-a-kind originals at discounted prices.
Just down the street, is Fashion & Art Revival, owned and operated by Ellen Taylor. Specializing in high-end women's resale items, Ellen offers new and pre-owned designer clothing at truly amazing discounts.
Coffeeshop SR71's owner, Richard Lee, also owns the Oaksterdam News and Gift Shop on 16th Street. Richard is politically active locally in his effort to promote the South of Broadway neighborhood as an inclusive, welcoming, eclectic district for artists, and Oakland's diverse urban social groups.
Around the corner on Franklin is the Oakland Public Music Conservatory. Students of all ages and skill levels create musical magic every day. The conservatory offers excellent musical opportunities for everyone. Styles and instruments vary, but the level of expression and achievement is uniformly superb.
A Diva's Closet explodes with youthful fashion and energy. Gertha Hayes presides over a store full of color, sparkles and enticing fashions with a smile and a helping hand.
Is it a hotbed of friendly competition or is 17th Street simply a thriving center for personal/beauty services? Choose your favorites from Mimi's Beauty Salon, Top Notch Hair Salon, Tuff Cuts, Beauty Paradise, Frenchie Hair Gallery, and Unique Braids. Each has its own style and specialty. Loyal clients keep them all busy!
Miracles Hair Salon / Miracles Too Shoe Boutique is, as the names indicate, two shops as one. What better way to complement a beautiful new hair style than with a pair, or two, of exciting new shoes.
Don't leave yet! You haven't visited Rags Like Riches! Take home a fashion statement from 17th Street!
Ready to unwind a bit after a day of enthusiastic shopping? Visit De La Peau Health Spa for a massage or a facial. Even those who have not much time can get a by-the-minute massage.
Last stop! When you are really ready to leave, stop by and discover A Travel Moment, downtown Oakland's only woman-owned travel agency. This is a two-in-one business. A Travel Moment operates in the same space as Underground Treasures. It is a perfect combination. Book a trip and buy the wardrobe that you will wear while on your way.
