A boutique name that means bitter and sharp animosity? No doubt that's a bit jolting, but don't be scared away: this store's sleek and chic vibe is anything but acrimonious. Acrimony's unusual name and the think-twice response it provokes are definitely indicative of the fresh and unexpected mix of progressive clothes and accessories for men and women you'll find here.

Owner and buyer Jenny Chung stocks the store with an edgy mix of sophisticated styles and street influences. A major focus is on emerging and hard-to-find designers lines from all over the globe, from New York and Los Angeles to Sweden, Paris, Thailand, and Australia. Among others labels, you'll see Heimstone, April77, United Bamboo, Crispin & Basilio, Quail, Hellz Bellz, Public School, and Minimart. If you're in the market for accessories, don't miss the Michelle Vale handbags, silver and gold jewelry from Tommasini and Bijules, and ultra-cool shades. The fall lineup for men notably includes Common Projects sneakers.

The fashions have plenty of room to breathe in the airy, nearly 2,000 square foot space just a few a blocks away from the main Hayes Valley shopping drag. Custom-made pipe racks and fixtures, dark wood tables and glassy display cases are sparsely scattered, yet the industrial ambiance is softened with graceful accents such as a beautiful hand-blown glass chandelier from Milan.

Designed to inspire customers through various mediums, Acrimony's lets you to soak up super-fly fashions against a backdrop of progressive art and music. The boutique does double-duty as a gallery, with its stark white walls dotted with artwork from around the world. All in all, with its special blend art, music, and well-edited, fashion-forward clothes and accessories, Acrimony's success is nothing but sweet.

Acrimony Boutique
515 Gough Street
415-861-1025
www.shopacrimony.com