I was in this store a couple of months ago with my husband, before I knew the gender of my little one on the way. I swore that once I had that information, I would come back for the appropriate pair of overpriced animal socks ($22 for a pair to fit a 1-year-old, $17 for a newborn pair). So today, I was inspired to buy my little boy to come said socks - and a $98 onesie. I know, it's crazy nonsense. But I have to say, the hand-sewn designs in this store are unlike anything I've ever seen (since I've never been to Japan, where these clothes are imported from). Definitely save this one for special occasions, gifts, etc. Unless you roll celeb style, you won't be doing your everyday shopping here. P.S. Since service has been mentioned a lot in the reviews here - I didn't encounter any problems. I received plenty of help and experienced no snootiness. I hate to think that they've been nasty with some other folks - it just wasn't my experience. read more

Step through the door and enter a softly lit fairyland of sparsely populated racks upon which delicate pastel garments of organic origin flutter as if begging to be touched. Everything in here is super gorgeous and super imported, which also means super expensive; simply breathing the air in here makes my wallet cry in pain. But in a good way. It hurts so, so good. And the styling! The Japanese know how to dress. Yow. I left empty-handed today, but next time I might not be so fortunate. Obligatory addendum on service: The staff is polite and friendly, but don't expect them to be over the moon about assisting you on your mind trip through the hallowed halls of sticker shock. read more

Cotton Sheep is a great store to get enchanting gifts. They sell jewelry by the Kyoto based Atelier Kaoru. These biomorphic/nature-inspired works are like no rings, earings, bracelets and necklaces I've ever seen. I have bought earrings for myself and my best friend and we both get complimented all the time on their understated beauty. I also got a matching ring from my sweetie who knows how much I like Kaoru's stuff. As far as I can tell, they are the only north American retailer of this jewelry. Their children's clothing is adorable and their women's apparel and shoes are beautifully deconstruced designs from Japan. read more

I love Cotton Sheep. If you love quality and aesthetics, this is a must visit. I was looking for long sleeved t-shirts for a trip back East and my friend told me that Old Navy had shirts on sale for 5 bucks. So what do I do? I go to Cotton Sheep and buy two cashmere/cotton blend t-shirts for $118 each! Sure they're sheer and lightweight but they're surprisingly warm bc of the cashmere, great for layering. Plus, they're as soft as silk. I also picked up an adorable buttery soft heather gray cotton button-up hoodie for my friend's baby. Red, oak brown, cream colored buttons lined center with white thermal lining striped pink and baby blue which makes rolling up the sleeves super cute! Great place to pick up gifts for kids, girlfriends and yourself! Definitely on the splurgey side. read more

11/7/07 update: I went in last week with some birthday dough to finally buy the earrings I'd been coveting all year. The owner asked if my boyfriend had been in a couple of days before. She said he'd looked at the same earrings, but didn't buy them because he wasn't sure if I wanted silver or gold. I bought the earrings (silver), and at her urging, I pointed out a few other things I liked. She even took down my ring size. I don't know which is cuter: my BF for remembering how much I like this store, or the owner for putting 2 and 2 together and prepping for his return! ********* I stop in this shop frequently (like, every time I walk by during business hours) to lust after the jewelry. Delicate, original designs in silver and gold. I haven's seen anything like them before. The clothes are a little earth mama for me. But that's not why I'm there. read more

Wabi-sabi imperfect perfect. I love this shop. There's a sweetly melancholy & nostalgic vibe to this place, as though it still remembers an Edwardian summer in Japan. (Sounds odd, I know. But go in and you'll see what I mean.) So many subtle shades of pale gray, charcoal gray, not black, off-brown, moleskin, creams & vanillas --- and all of it whisper soft. Delicious organic cottons and cashmeres. Pin-tucks, too. As well as simple boots and dainty, almost Victorian shoes. Very nice helpful, friendly staff. Pleasantly distressed wood floors and surroundings. The jewelry is elegant and delicate, the perfect compliment to the understated clothing. I only wish it weren't so expensive! But then, it's Hayes Valley after all... read more

I disagree with some of the other reviewers - the ladies that work here are nothing but gracious to a fault, and encourage you to touch, try on and admire the clothing. Sadly I don' t fit into many of the lovely things/styles, but the items that do work are keepsakes and worth every penny. I am not Japanese, but never have felt anything other than welcome. I only wish I could buy more and ensure that they stay in business - they are a truly unique spot in a spotty shopping city. read more

I think this is the only place in Northern California that carries Kaoru jewelry. The only other retail location on the west coast is probably somewhere in Seattle or L.A. I absolutely love Kaoru jewelry, but it's the kind of thing where I save up on the bread for years in between each Kaoru purchase. I wore my new Kaoru two-tone, cascading, flowerlet earrings to dinner the other day, and my friend Maggie says, "Kaoru?" Delicate, painstakingly crafted, *distinctive*. Granted, we probably pride ourselves on this sort of obscure exquisiteness. The woman who helped me with the jewelry was extremely patient as I determined which items to purchase. I know, this is a stupid time to buy gold with the market up as it is, but I just had to have it. I also bought some unbelievably beautiful over-the-knee Vivenne Westwood (but made in Japan) stockings. They're black with taupe criss-cross webbing and tinseled fuschia, orange, and violet fringe/gauze at the top. I *shocked* myself buying these because for the price of the stockings I could have bought gas to fill up the tank of my compact car twice over. (See, gold is up, crude is up. Where this consumer spending confidence comes from beats me. It's a reactionary state.) If money were no object (which it normally is, but I was gripped with a bit of insanity stemming from stressful work and a third, or is it fourth (?) mid-life crisis) Cotton Sheep hits all the sweet spots of taste and environment: clean aesthetic, rustic earthiness, Japanese-eye-candy colors and brights, and a lavish eye for the thoughtful, spare detail. It is actually quite a skillful mix that the owner has wrought here. read more

This is one of the most unique stores in Hayes Valley. It' s so unique that it draws people without children in to look at children's clothes. It draws in clothing designers of all types to study the unique use of fabrics. Cotton Sheep is a Japanese import store, stocking clothes and jewelery for women and kids. Strolled in on the late side as they were closing down and the owner gave me a tour. The entire place is done up in earthy wood tones and modern, tansu-reminiscent, shelving done up in cedar behind the counters. The women' s clothes are very cool, with interesting fabric mashups. But it's the kid's clothes that just steal the show, with amazing layered patterns and organic designs that are art themselves. Hard to imagine so much drool and apple sauce covering such nice pieces. Then again, if you want the best for your little fashionista kid, this is the place. Dudes: There are plans in the works to carry stuff for the men folk. read more

Four stars are for the neat three-sided box that they put the gift in. One star for the gift. Well---one star out of one left---so pretty good. I agree about the understated elegance; my girlfriend is not so much into fauz-western $125 belt buckles you find in the Hay. Va., so the nice siliver pendant I purchased was more appropriate. I even found it cute that they had the Japanese shopgirl put on a Japanese accent... but then I made her laugh and out came a thick Southern drawl ... go figure! read more

I discovered Kapital clothing here! I love this store. Such beautiful clothing.

I never thought I would be coming back (even though I had a great experience), but I remember the small selection of baby socks and clothing being cute! I did and left with handful of merchandise and a lighter wallet. I can agree with most of the reviews, but service is definitely hit or miss. read more

The teenager who works there thinks he can judge people by their appearance and guess how much money they have, to an extend that he refuses to do his little retail job. As you can see there are lots of reviews about their bad customer service and unnecessary attitudes, they don't seem to care and try to improve - that's how highly they think of themselves. I am sure this is not going to be the last review about their shitty behavior. Wouldn't recommend unless you want to see some snob going around and insulting you. read more

The clothes are exceptional with several, truly unique pieces. I don't think there is another boutique clothier that carries Kapital, and with other such quality clothiers you can expect the type of service that allows you to browse as you please with a knowledgeable group of individuals who ready to help when you need it. read more

This store has gorgeous items of clothing at very high prices. Not everything is Japanese but the European things are just as beautiful as the Japanese things. The owner obviously has unusually good taste. Even for those of us who are not going to spend large sums on clothes for growing kids it is nice to have the option to get special presents. I read a number of one star reviews from people who say they were treated badly. We (3 of us) were treated pleasantly and helpfully by the owner, her son and daughter. Every piece in this store is something special. I doubt that they would be happy about people dribbling their drinks on these gems or turning the store into their phone booth. read more

The clothing collection is so nice. They have beautiful scarves and children's clothing along with women's. The store people are very kind and cute. :) I would've given 5 stars, but the cost marked one star out as they are pricy, and another one for their return policy... store credit only. read more

My son loves Japanese fashion and culture, so we often come to Cotton Sheep to check out the latest. They have lovely basics and unique options for men, women and kids. The owner and her daughter are super friendly, and always strike up good conversation. Good customer service and always appreciative of our business read more

The service is wonderful and they are helpful without being pushy. The selection is unique and the ambiance is charming. The owner is so very gracious. read more

I'm here at 5:40. You're closed. I rushed to get here you're supposed to be open till six. Don't say you're open till l six if you're not. That sucks. read more

I am newly obsessed with this place!! While I'm aware the items may be pricy (they are) the reality is you get what you pay for. The Kapital brand is nearly impossible to find in the US, but also tricky to find your size. I had amazing customer service, tried on a variety of sizes to determine which fit the best, and the lady helping me was so wonderful and hunted down all the options in my size. If you appreciate quality, quirky details, and luxurious fabrics, this is the place for you. I can't wait to buy more from the lovely folks at Cotton Sheep - keep up the great work! PS. Check out their Instagram @cottonsheepsf read more

OMG! COTTON SHEEP is such an incredible store..Really! My friends told me about it and I had to go check it out for myself. Seriously, everyone should check this store out. SUCH CUTE BOOTS! I could have bought all of them. The clothes are to DIE FOR. The best thing of all is that this really young cute stylish japanese girl completely helped me out. SHE IS SOOOO SWEET and knows her stuff when it comes to fashion. She had the coolest hat. Her outfit was amazing. She was such a sweetheart. Great Customer Service!!! I will be returning soon! read more

I really can't comment on the items in the store, because the owner wouldn't let us in. While visiting Hayes Valley with my husband and several other out-of town family members we stopped to look at the items in the window of Cotton Sheep. As is often the case, the male members of our group were uninterested, while the female members were trying to decide which adorable item to purchase. We were especially excited because we had a new addition to our family to welcome ian with some new baby clothing. As interest waned for the male members of our group, they occupied themselves by looking at photos of their latest surfing trip on their phones. We girls continued to point out the items in the window we were debating. To reiterate, this was all happening on the sidewalk OUTSIDE of the store. The owner came out of the store and started yelling at the men, accusing them of taking photos of her store. They weren't and couldn't have been less interested to do so. They said they weren't and offered to show her the photos. She insisted that they were photographing her store and continued to yell at them. She then turned to me and the other women and told us to get away from her store window. So, although she had some cute items in the window, we didn't go inside. Some things are all about approach, her approach was horrible. The angry shrewish women who yelled at a group of customers about to enter her store, lost that sale and a whole lot of good will. read more

Wow, not only is the store owner rude, but so is her son! The apple certainly doesn't fall far from the tree. You would think by the number of bad customer service reviews posted on yelp for this establishment they would learn a few thing things. I am certainly not the only person who has been treated poorly. Check out their comment to my review and you will see exactly how they treat people. I wish there was a way to give negative stars because that's what Cotton Sheep deserves. read more

Your reply is very unprofessional. My review on 03/14/10 is based on the service I received (2 years ago) at what I assumed was a place of business. Creating a sob story with your family in it to make me look like a bad guy is a low blow. I would never wish anything bad to someone's family. Instead of looking at this as an attack on your family, please take this opportunity to improve your business practices since it is so important to their well being. read more

Best Japanese clothing in frisco. Go to this store if you need something. Family owned and very good service

Okay, I just finished reading everyone else's reviews and here's mine, along with some reflection on other people's comments. THE STORE. My favorite men's clothing store on Hayes. Gorgeous displays, beautiful clothing. Prices definitely induce sticker shock and shortness of breath, so you may want to steel yourself before entering the store. Yes, it's that pricey. THE MERCHANDISE. I read a couple of reviews complaining of quality issues. Not the case with the items I've bought. I purchased a Kapital denim jacket that I've had for a couple of years (I've NEVER received more compliments on anything I've bought in my 56 years on this planet) and it's holding up great after many trips to the washer and dryer. Also bought some drop-crotch pants that are also holding up great after two-plus years. Plus a pair of the kiddie animal socks for a friend's newborn, and some quality wool socks for myself. THE SERVICE. As far as the widely varying Yelp opinions about the service goes, I've always been treated courteously by owner mom and her two kids, as well as the other employees. The first time I went in there, I felt that the atmosphere was more serene and upscale than I'm used to, even compared to other stores on Hayes. This resulted in my behaving more like I would in an art gallery or museum -- quietly and respectfully. Lots of the clothes appear hand-crafted of delicate materials. I could see the artistry in their products and sensed that the employees felt that they are selling works of art. To maintain this type of upscale experience, I can understand why the employees would prefer customers to refrain from stoking their phone addiction, over-handling the merchandise, or making the assumption that we can grab something off the rack and try it on. Rather, I assumed the employees want to make their expertise and assistance part of the customer experience. This is how it's been for me, and it's worked just fine. Beyond that, give the people who work there a break; we're not all a natural Emily Posts or Prince Charmings. read more

Great selection of clothing and helpful staff. On the expensive side, but worth the money, in my opinion.

First impression: cute! But within 5 seconds of being in the store, the owner lady said to her employee "a little weird, huh?" in Japanese. I turned around because I understood what she said and saw that she was clearly POINTING at my friend, who happen to dress a little differently (but it's San Francisco!). Umm.. can you wait at least until we're out the door before you talk crap about your potential customers? It doesn't matter that she said it in her language, it's just plain rude. I should've cussed her out, but I'm hoping she'll learn some customer service skills before the store closes down! read more

The owner of this store is abominable. I had been told she mistreats her employees, however decided to still spend hundreds of dollars on clothing. Three of the items were damaged (pulled strings, pen marks, etc). I approached the sales woman to explain that I had only realized the damage once I returned home. Just then the owner walked in and seeing that I was trying to return items, raised her voice and denied my request. I kept trying to explain that damaged items should be marked as such and at first she denied they were damaged, but then proceeded to accuse me of damaging them. She shut me down after repeated requests where I asked her to be reasonable and see the damaged items for what they were- unsellable! She was totally unreasonable, rude, and downright mean. She then took photos of me on her personal phone! This woman values greed over ANY level of customer service. Please don't shop here. Save your pretty pennies for shop owners who actually value clientele. I'm utterly disgusted by her behavior. read more

I am never deterred by reviews that say "pricey," but $25.00 for baby socks? You got me.

I love their monster socks (the baby always gets a compliment when wearing them). The customer interaction was a bit too kansai for my taste (the ownerish woman asked our ethinicity, then went on to offer her opinion on how "cool" my mom is and how she and I don't look alike at all (what's that supposed to mean!?)). The clothes are not my style either...a bit overpriced when you calculate the yen vs dollar. The socks are the sole reason for now (no pun intended). read more

I always love peeking in this store in Hayes Valley. It always has great little jackets and sweaters and the lines are Japanese. You always feel like you are wearing a one of a kind piece. In fact I think Aiko (the owner) only gets one piece in one size. The children's clothes are unbelievably cute but unfortunately they are practically the same price as the adults! So, I stay away from that corner. The down side is that the owner showers you with attention when you are buying things but quickly casts you away if you choose not to. read more

Customer service is horrible at this place when I asked how much their Rings were she literally turned her back on me and refuse to answer my question we were in the store for five minutes we looked at the beanie she had beanie for $58 for a newborn baby .whatever, clothes were cute but she literally let me know she is racist and I can't believe that this lady store is still here. She sizes you up see if you're going to spend the money or not and if she feels that you're not going to buy anything she's very rude to you. Little did she know I had a purse full of money with a new grandbaby on the way. read more

This is a mixed review. For the jewelry - kaoru - I would give Cotton Sheep a 5! I love this brand and cannot find it anywhere online. Until my last trip, I had always received great customer service. Today, however, I was thoroughly annoyed. First, the girl behind the counter, backed up by the owner on-site, would not let me try on earrings. This is one of my pet peeves - how are you supposed to see what they look like if you can't try them on?? She said it was for sterility reasons-I say get a sani-wipe. There was also some pressure to special order a ring when I was pretty certain they would have it in my size soon anyway. But the goods are worth it, just don't get bullied.... read more

If you aren't on a budget, or you are, splurge here. I haven't found a place that carries the Japanese style I crave in forever. Cotton Sheep gets it. If you can't splurge for yourself, then grab some cute baby gifts there. I found some funky baby socks that look like dinosaur feet. The owner is truly hospitable. read more

I think this may be my favorite clothing store in san francisco. That being said, I am a minimalist that believes in buying only a few items of high quality throughout the year. Cotton Sheep takes so much interest in the products they carry and it shows. These exquisite items are rare, timeless, and of the utmost quality. The customer service is also superb. read more

Ah Kaoru jewelry: precious pieces to define organic elegance. Where the clothing has boho chic safely nailed, its the accessory case which is hardest to overlook. Delicate flecked feminine... ok yes, i do have a new ring and its lovely ;). Service wasn't gushy but i rather prefer the understated vibe. read more

I have always loved the gauzy knits featured in this store but couldn't bring myself to pay the premium prices - until now. 5 days of "vacation" with 2 sleep deprived toddlers led me in a bleary eyed daze into Hayes shopping district where I happily treated myself to a gorgeous mixed print scarf that hasn't left my neck but for a few moments for the past 2 days. The adorable kids' knits definitely caught my eye but hey, this moment was about me. While I do harbor concerns of my little monsters shredding whatever cute socks I would have purchased them, I do have to say my beautiful scarf has so far held up to various sippy cup spills and little tugging hands. read more

Amazing quality and such a unique selection of one off apparel, but MY GOD they are cray cray expensive!

I am too big or not hip enough to wear anything from this store. But extra star for this most awesome tatami bench inside that makes the perfect resting place after you max out your credit cards shopping on Hayes Street. Would it look really bad if I laid down there for a nap? read more