This isn't the all-too-typical reclaimed wood, Edison bulb, crystal-infused body spray, semi-festival inspired fashion shop - refreshingly, it's none of those things. It's Danish-inspired, Oakland born and bred, small batch clothing that Elaine designs and makes in the shop (her workshop is above in the loft). The style is clean without being cold, natural without being pretentious, modern without being rigid. It's part of this Oakland fashion bloom we have going - and is a definitive, and welcome, departure from the herd. Check it out. read more

Took a break from the crowds of people waiting for the Warriors parade. As we wandered along the shady sides of the streets, we spotted a grounding serene boutique. Joseph, the co-owner, a pleasant welcoming host, showed us around and told us wonderful stories about the artists and their goods. We'll be back here for sure. A bottle opener handmade by an artist which had the essence of African mud cloth design, Indigenous America, Japan and the Art Deco period, called our name. If you're reading this and haven't checked out the store's yelp description at the header of this yelp page, go check out the pictures right now. You're sure to find something lovely. Thank you Joseph. You made our morning. (Artist Image source: Sarah Cecelia) read more

Whenever I stop by here I see something I must have. The clothing is unique and flattering. The shapes, the colors, the fabrics, all high quality and well-designed. They're clothes that you buy to last and wear year after year. They're classic, elegant, modern, and on-trend all at the same time. There are other feasts for the eyes, too, like jewelry, ceramics, bags, and scarves; all of them items that you don't see everyday. The store itself is lovely, and there's a loft area where the making and designing of most of the clothing is done (I assume). I just hope this store gets enough passersby stopping in to keep it afloat. If you want to shop local in Oakland, start here. It's a gem of a shop. read more

Elaine and Joseph are the lovely, welcoming hosts in this room full of beautiful locally made clothes and objets d'art. Elaine designs and makes simple, stylish clothing in exquisite natural colors and fabrics you want next to your skin: cotton, linen and fine, lightweight wool. I lusted after one of her cotton shirtdresses all summer, then impulsively bought one in a beautiful lightweight blue wool. Her prices are actually very reasonable, considering the quality: pick one piece that you'll live in all season. She also sells gorgeous locally made jewelry from a variety of artists, beautiful ceramic pipes that look like miniature sculptures and are meant to be left out on your dresser, beautiful artisan chocolate, and variety of locally made belts and bags. I try not to look at any of these too closely because I can't afford it. A step into Kosa Arts is a delight for the senses, and Elaine and Joseph are delightful hosts. read more

What an incredible, unique boutique of arts and handmade gifts! And filled with such great vibes! Kosa Arts is a woman-owned store that will delight your senses! Elaine is so knowledgeable and kind - she really took the time with me when I popped in on my way to dance. So many neat items. Definitely give this place a visit. It's my go to when I need someone thing special and entirely different to give to another or myself. There's always street parking out front on Sundays. Go and support local artists and local business! read more

I always pass by this store as it's near all the business of Downtown Oakland, and it is such a gem. Joseph talks to each customer with so much love and knowledge for their products. He even let me taste some samples of their chocolate, and lovingly gave me bags and ribbon for my gifts. Such elegant clothes, jewelry, and little knick knacks. I was particularly interested in their aromatherapy products. Make sure to pass by and support this lovely Oakland shop. read more

Wonderful shop, I come here often to get gifts for friends, usually simple earrings that are unique delicate and not overly expensive.

After this age-inappropriate San Franciscan, a whiny blaggard exile from New York City, made his way to Oakland for the urban(e) energy, diversity, and arts that San Francisco "teched" away, I found a corner of cool: Kosa Arts HUZZAH ("ça me plait fortement," y'all) Kosa Arts, a confection served up as an immensely charming boutique right across the street from the handsome resto, Parlour (but that entails another lunch, another good review in the making). Oh, my, my, my, what an immensely attractive,smart, and knowingly low-key boutique. The artisanal "vibe," comfort-chic, and that undefinable and yet "I-know-it-when-I-see-it" urban cool of all Kosa's offerings presented an instant portal to the cornered cool of Portobello, London, or multicultural Montmartre, Paris, or, ESPECIALLY, Fort Greene Brooklyn, as if Manhattan West's San Francisco now had Oakland taking a star turn as Brooklyn by the... Oh. Wait. Okay. My bad. Here's the good: I bought a very cool pair of black jeans, slim legs, and two white tee shirts that look better, are better made, and cost me half of what I plonked down the last time I bled out for my "what-is-hip-today-is-definitely gonna-be-passé" at a lower Haight street boutique. Here's the ugly: knowing I can never get the phone number of that African-American girl in the photos, and still have the poseur plonk's pique to post his barely Civilized and its Discontents over trifles undeserved and truffles unfound . But there will always be Kosa Arts cool: Uptown, Oakland. I'm in. They're about. Check it out. read more

My favorite place to buy chocolates and gifts. Going back to try on a new Kosa Apparel dress!

Elaine has exquisite taste. The gallery is filled with delicious textures and colors, and I personally would love to have any of it in my home and closet. She gathers from all over the world and her clothing designs are both elegant and comfortable. The mix works beautifully. Her displays reflect the serenity of her design sense. It calms my senses to visit and I always find a new treasure. read more

Kosa Arts is one of the most exciting recent additions to the neighborhood and Oakland. The owner, Elaine, has curated a unique collection of interior decoration, clothing, art and furniture, much of which (probably most) is locally designed and made. She obviously cares about the local community and is really well tapped into it - everything she sells is really tasteful and creative. read more

When I really need a moment to get away from the stress of office work I come to Kosa. It's like spending time at a Japanese tea garden or a quiet temple with beautiful and unique things to see, touch and smell. They have the most exquisite collection of incense, hand made soaps and beautiful pottery. The selection of silk and other natural scarves from India is also lovely and highly wearable. Don't miss it if you're in this part of Oakland. read more

A great shop with lots of knick-knacks. You can tell the owner has a keep eye on merchandising. There are many one of a kind pieces of clothing here as well as curios. Pop in and enjoy the atmosphere. read more

Beautiful shop and a wonderfully friendly, helpful host. I needed to leave only to stop myself from purchasing everything in the store! We left with locally sourced, great smelling candles, soaps, palo santo and ceramic dishes. A great place to find local artists' work. I'll definitely be back. read more

I absolutely love this shop. Every time I go in, I discover something new to give as a gift or take home for myself. So perfectly curated, and the products are beautiful. A true gem for Oakland. read more

If you are looking for a gift or for something for your home that will be unique and personal, this is the place to get it. Elaine has the most amazing eye for local talent. read more

Visiting Kosa Arts brings me joy. The boutique speaks creativity, quality and refinement. Every single piece of merchandise is carefully selected by its owner and founder Elaine Hamblin. The store reminds me of Soho and Park Slope. It truly is a unique gem in the neighborhood, where you'll find the finest items for your wardrobe, your living space, or gifts for friends and family. http://kosaarts.com. read more

Beautiful store in Oakland. Full of a large range of products focused on craft (made in USA and beyond) & Elaine's big, welcoming smile. Elaine is also producing & selling her own clothing line focused on everyday wear and locally grown or discontinued runs of fabric on site. The store is not to be missed. read more