I have never written a review of a store but my experience was so bad I felt I had to share! I saw a cool looking jacket from across the street as me and my family were walking around Carmel. I was so excited and ran across the street to get a closer look. As soon as I went inside there was a wall of bedazzled jackets featuring different Formula 1 teams. My mom is a big fan of F1 and I excitedly took a picture so she could see (of course with the intent of potentially buying it as a kitschy souvenir). As soon as I pulled out my phone, the woman behind the counter judgmentally told me "we don't do that" referring to me taking a picture. Of course I quickly put my phone away and explained that it was because I thought the jackets were pretty. (Which was, to be honest, a fib-- I simply had too much heart to tell her that upon closer inspection her bedazzled denim looked like it belonged on a truckers wife in a strip club and not on Ocean Ave.) I continued walking around the store looking at the other clothes as the woman kept uncomfortably staring at me. After a minute she raised her brow and said "it seems like you came with a purpose" as if I was in the store to steal her clothes or designs. It was very rude and totally inappropriate. She totally Pretty Woman-ed me! Long story short if you are looking for a one of a kind jacket, skip this place. You could probably find something of similar value on Etsy instead. And to the owner of this place, I have a piece of advice--Let's leave bedazzled denim jackets and bitchy retail workers back in the 80's where they belong! ‍ read more

This shop has some of the most incredibly beautiful fashion pieces on earth. The owner, Sharleen, is a true artist and creates many of the pieces herself. Like many artists, she is nobody's fool. I am always respectful towards her and she is always willing to accommodate my wishes. The Collection is a must visit for any fashionista. read more

The Collection - Women's Clothing Near Me - Carmel, California

My husband and I were interested in a few items in the window. As we approached the store, along with our 13-year old son who happens to be in a wheelchair, the woman working was sitting outside on the bench, eating a salad, and immediately upon seeing our son approach the store, shooed our son away from entering with us right behind him. She actually said to us, "no! I need a minute to myself..." and then insisted that everything we would want to see was on display in the windows. (Except of course, that makes it difficult to buy any of the items). What a completely horrendous human being. A few minutes later, we saw her welcome two customers into the shop. Thankful we did not spend a dime in this place. I fully recommend heeding her advice and avoid going into this store. read more

Avoid all cost! Not friendly at all! Clothing is just custom but try to sell like an high end collection. The Collection is not so good collection! Name should be like that read more

Really fun and eclectic (in a high end, not weird way) boutique. Majority of pieces were contemporary knit designer pieces. I am overweight and was thrilled to see how well many of the pieces worked for me. At the same time they would be stunning on a smaller frame. Designs were unique and very versatile. Also seems super durable, one piece got a little stuck to the hanger's velcro - no impact on the knit at all. Sharleen was super fun. Attentive, her suggestion made sense, she was not overbearing (picked up that I am starting to get tired of trying things on) I ended up buying quite a few of the Comando (camisoles, leggings and underwear) pieces, all without trying - tried them at home and they fit and look is fantastic. Stop by if you are there, just a super neat experience. read more

Was shopping in the area walking down the street looking at the window display with my young daughter when the proprietor came out and started screaming at me accusing me of making fun of her merchandise and threatening to call the cops. I was so stunned and a man near by who witnessed the entire scene shook his head like "what was that about." If you do not want tourists to look at your windows then you should not own a shop on one of the most touristy streets in town. I was simply trying to have a relaxing day with my family but it was difficult after that micro aggression. read more

This place is terrible. Should be called "The collection of garbage". Owner is really abrasive and practically attacks you as soon as you enter her shop. She seems to be insane. Things are waaaayyyy overpriced. I saw a coat there and it said $1200. I thought it was $12.00 but then realized, this is downtown carmel after all. She has had multiple employees come and go in short time span. Wonder what that is about? Plus, as soon as you open the door to enter "The collection" your sense of smell is knocked on its as due to the plethora of scented beads and perfumes. Do not come here. Owner belongs in psych ward. read more

This is my third visit to The Collection today. Sharlene has the most incredible taste with an amazing artistic flair!! My wife is tall and thin and almost without exception everything she tries on at Sharlene's boutique fits and looks great. The Collection caters to a more sophisticated and discerning taste level, but let Sharlene help you locate your look. The first time my wife and I went to her shop together Sharlene spent 2.5 hours with us helping us find the perfect look for my wife. I can't say enough good things about The Collection. Service and style is in short supply in modern day America, but not here. You are made to feel welcome and the ladies who shop here leave looking like queens. Thank you Sharlene, Jody and I will be back soon:) read more

Avoid this store at cost. They do not provide a receipt and do not accept returns. They are skilled rip off artist.

Live the inventory. Lots of unique pieces. The only problem was deciding what not to buy!

I have been here now a few times and every time I am in Carmel By The Sea i stop by to see what new creative items are in the store. Sharleen is very generous with her time and if she doesn't have your size she will let you know when a new shipment arrives. Don't be afraid to ask her for advice. She is very sweet and will steer you in the right direction! She has tremendous passion for her store and truly enjoys helping others. She definitely makes you feel right at home! read more

I walked in for a quick look and walked out with shopping bags a la Pretty Woman! There are so many fun, unusual pieces in this store and Sharleen is a fantastic stylist! If you're in the area, go take a look (and bring your credit card at your own risk). read more

Cute shop. Nice owner. Hand made and hand painted clothing and accessories by other artists as well. Custom.

This was my first time visiting Carmel, came across this boutique and fell in love! Everything is so unique and well made. Sharleen was awesome. She has a great eye for recommending clothing for my body type and style. Everything she suggested was so flattering and lovely. I'm excited to wear my NYE outfit! read more

The Collection has very unique and beautiful pieces! I was really drawn to the textures of thing, beautiful leather, suede, and knits. I wouldn't have known how amazing some of the knits were if the owner hadn't taken the time to handpick items that really worked for my body type. Some of the pieces look completely different on the body versus the hanger. I had a personalized experience and am so happy with the pieces I purchased. read more

Hands down the best boutique in all of Carmel... not only are the girls who work here genuine, fun and honest.. the clothes and jewelry are gorgeous... once you visit this chic boutique, you will be a forever client.. the girls will help you create your style and make you feel like a new woman! The owner knows her stuff and has the perfect eye for style and design... this is a must visit if you are visiting this beautiful town or if you live here.. some of my favorite pieces came from her store. read more

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The Collection is my favorite place to shop when in Carmel. This store is beautiful and full of the most amazing items. It's a must see when shopping in the beautiful Carmel. Sharleen is diligent about assisting to find the perfect items to add to my wardrobe. She may possibly be a bit too good. Therefore I can't decide which to buy and which to walk away from. Please make it stop. I can't afford myself!! read more

This shop is truly a find. Please take the time to explore all the amazing pieces The Collection's store owner, Sharlene, has curated. I had a friend bring me in to shop with her and on that day I was definitely "not buying". I'm not kidding you but hours later, Sharlene coaxing me to try on knit after knit that I would never have thought could flatter my body, I left with several pieces. Sharlene swore to me that the knits are forgiving and do not need to be "babied" in terms of care. She's right! Let her show you how to wear them, handle them, wash them...you will become as big a fan as I am. NOW, 1.5 years later, I own about 20 of her Aida Ley pieces. hand made knits from a range of colors, all Italian yarns, some even from Missoni...I'm like a kid in a candy store when I visit here. Be sure to check out her "Commando" line of underpinning garments - she has the BEST basics (must haves for every wardrobe)! Also, Sharlene has one-of-a-kind designer finds she makes available. This makes frequenting her curated store a must as these "finds" sell quickly and cannot be re-ordered. Lastly, for those of you with a "bolder" flare, her one of a kind painted jeans and tee's will appeal to you or someone you know. I overheard her her the other day discuss commissioning a personalized design for one of her patrons....so if this is for you, be sure to ask Sharlene about the designs she has available you may not see on her floor, or what she can create specifically for you. Lastly, Sharlene is running The Collection on her own - a self made woman with limited staff and resources. I personally like to support women in business and have tremendous respect and empathy for how difficult it is to be successful. Sharlene may be helping a customer or running an operational aspect of The Collection when you visit so be patient if she's tied up. Don't leave! Let your curiosity lead you through the store. Be sure to engage Sharlene in conversation...say "hello" and let ask her about her vision. You'll soon learn so much about The Collection she curates and about her - it will be fun! Oh, I almost forgot to add the best part, Sharlene knows people's bodies. She suggested articles of clothing I thought I would never wear...they made me feel beautiful. I love wearing them! read more

I purchased an expensive set of earrings for my girlfriend for our anniversary. They broke the first day. I took them in and asked if they could be repaired, the lady said for me to leave them and she would ask the owner. I picked them up several days later and they had fixed the part that had fallen off the earring but didn't put the backs to the earrings that matched them so I went in asked for the backs. I had to call the store for someone to come open the door during their regular open hours. They seemed annoyed that I had even showed up to the store at 3pm. The lady was extremely unprofessional and said how much I paid for them in front of my girlfriend and seemed very distressed as if she was having a mental breakdown that I had come back to the store and basically told me too bad and go screw myself. read more

I was on a girl's trip to Carmel when we discovered this gem of a boutique. Sharleen, the owner, was a breath of fresh air! The one of a kind knits that she has in her store can only be described as EXQUISITE. I ended up buying a tunic AND a scarf. I feel like a queen everytime i wear one of my pieces. I only wish she would have an online presence. I would definitely buy more pieces!!! If I'm ever back in Carmel, this is the first place I will stop to shop!!:) read more

A very interesting collection of stylish jeans, jackets, shoes, and jewelry, but mainly the softest knit sweaters, wraps, and scarves. The beautiful array of colors will make it hard to choose just the right one. You may have to buy two! New business,but I think this unique collection will be here for a long time. read more

The Collection is a beautifully designed boutique with gorgeous and unique clothing. The owner Sharleen is also beautiful, warm, friendly and so talented. She has an innate ability to know exactly how to dress her clients, evaluating each personality and body type. It is a must experience if you are heading to Carmel-by-the-Sea for a stroll or a stay along the infamous Ocean avenue. read more

The worst shopping experience of my life. The straight blond-haired woman behind the counter never looked up from her phone, appeared to be texting. A lady came in after my friend and myself. She still never looked up. Eventually I said, "It would be nice if you interacted with your customers". I get it that isn't something that would bring a happy response. Still, I never expected what followed. She flew out from behind the counter screaming and went into a lengthy 10 minute raging rant. I thought I was going to be physically assaulted. She kept yelling you want me to follow you around as she got in my face, inches away. Eventually I attempted to walk away and she continued to follow me getting in my face screaming. I said, "I said what I had to say and you said what you had to say. Now let's let it go", but to no avail. She kept screaming the same thing over and over as she completely invaded my space, getting right up into my face. The woman completely went off the rails. I think she has a mental problem. Needless to say, I would never enter this store again. read more

I found The Collection while in Carmel for a friend's wedding. The owner Sharleen helped me pick out an outfit and jewelry that made me feel so stylish and comfortable. Sharleen was incredibly helpful and her boutique was so beautiful it would be at home in Paris or Rodeo Drive. I highly recommend this shop and avoid all the other cookie cutter shops in Carmel. Guaranteed you will walk away feeling unique and beautiful. read more

My friend & I had recently taken a road trip up to Carmel, in order to get away from our hectic "LA" lifestyles for a change. It was nice to finally have some "me time" & see what the city is all about (since I've been told Carmel-by-the Sea can feel like a fairytale vacation spot at times). We were also told to visit all of the unique shops in the area. Coming from Beverly Hills, I was not that impressed at first, UNTIL we passed by this really unique shop called "The Collection". It happened to be closed by this time, however, it just looked SO unique & so cool, that we decided to stay another day and came back during business hours. We were SO happy we did this, since it was such a breath of fresh air, and ended up being the highlight of our weekend! They had the most unique clothing & accessories I have ever seen, and we were completely blown away with this place! Fortunately, the owner was present while visiting and she helped me choose custom pieces out of the many items I had picked (since I was in love with one too many!). And even though the items were a tad bit pricey, i knew these could not be found anywhere else & I would be the only person to own them ;). Ever since, my closet has become a mini "collection" in itself & I couldn't be happier! I've been getting so many compliments & I cannot wait to make a trip back there. I LOVE my Collection!!! :))) read more

What an incredibly unique shop of knit tunics, dresses, ponchos, you name it flattering for all body types. Sharleen, the owner is a pro at picking and choosing the right colors and style for your body type. Yes these knits are pricey but so unique, beautiful and well made that you won't regret the indulgence. In fact, I wish I would have bought two tunics that's how stunning I felt when wearing them. Thank you Sharlene for making me feel extraordinary in your awesome handmade knits. read more

What a marvelous experience! I walked in needing an outfit for a specific occasion and the owner, Sharleen Esfahani, took such good care of me! She pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me feel like a million bucks! She was awesome and so considerate about my price range. Her pieces are all so unique and I will cherish them forever! She is the definition of a fashionista and I'm thankful for all of her time, help, and patience with me! read more

I love Sharleen! All of the clothes are so beautiful and one of a kind! Definitely worth making the trip to Carmel.

Beautiful unique clothing at The Collection. Bought two stunning Aida Ley knit dresses - stylish & comfortable. Sharleen was so helpful picking out dresses, tunics, wraps, to try on. I wanted to buy them all. Thank you so much, Sharleen! read more

Great boutique! Sharleen is an amazing designer! Handmade jewelry, hand painted jeans and T-shirt's and much more.

This boutique is a must see!! Sharlene the owner is a free spirited, warm hearted person that you will want to make your personal best friend for all your fashion choices. New and unique designs every week, which make us all coming back for more!! I'm a big fan of pieces you simply can't find anywhere else and that's what The Collection has to offer. I stop by every time I'm in Carmel and leave with something that makes a statement wherever I go. You will love what you wear and how it makes you feel! Thanks Sharlene for sharing your talents and pursuing your dreams....it shows in your work and service to others read more

The place has some very unique finds, from leggings to one-of-a-kind designer wear. You can be sure that whatever you buy here will be distinctive. And the owner is very knowledgeable about her collection with a good eye for fit and form. There is a lot to choose from, so you should take your time. I didn't even see the hand knit top that she suggested, but it has been my favorite purchase so far. I can't wait to wear the rest. read more

Back in Carmel again. Went to The Collection. New dresses and skirts by Marcus Lupfer were on display. Loved them! I continue to be amazed at the beautiful fashions and accessories shop owner Sharleen selects. The personalized service keeps me coming back! read more

My husband and I were having a night away in Carmel. We had dinner reservations set for 6 p.m. We're locals so I didn't pack much. I had a dress packed that I'd worn before ready to throw on and head to dinner. We arrived to our hotel around 5:15 with just enough time to freshen up and change before walking down the street to dinner. As I was attempting to zip my dress up, the zipper stuck. My husband tried but ended up breaking the zipper. So there I was, half-dressed and no other options. I saw a shop across the street from where we were staying and decided to call. Yelp said the store was closed but decided to call anyway. At first there was no answer. I received a call back immediately and began frantically explaining my situation. Sharleen asked about my style preferences and size. I sent my husband down and within minutes I was in a beautiful cocktail dress and out the door. Thank you Sharleen and The Collection for turning my wardrobe malfunction in to a funny story and an unforgettable evening. I felt amazing! read more