The Lastarria neighborhood in downtown Santiago used to be a leafy and tranquil residential area favored by retirees, but with its easy access to the city center and its many finance and consulting companies, the small barrio is drawing a more caffeinated younger set. This recent influx has led to the opening of several locally owned boutiques that have become the go-to places for one-of-a-kind finds. Though the main avenue, also called Lastarria, is mostly lined with bustling restaurants, these shops are tucked away on side streets in old buildings that are a mix of neoclassical and colonial architecture.

La Sastreria: When the tailor Pablo Alvear started getting more and more requests for custom-made clothing from his male clientele, he decided that it was time to start his own line of menswear. His stylish shop offers shoes, hats, linen shirts and brightly colored pants inspired by different fashion eras. Of course, Alvear will tailor to the buyer's measurements. Prices from CLP 20,000-180,000 ($40-364). Merced 324. 56-2-632-7077.

AJI: Native materials like horsehair, coral and different woods are the focus of this jewelry store, which offers handmade trinkets for both sexes, all from Chilean designers, including an eye-catching necklace with irregularly shaped beads from volcanic rock. CLP 10,000-100,000. Lastarria 316.

56-2-639-9928. aji-chile.com.

Moda Miniatura: Carla Follegati Ruiz gave up her day job as a systems engineer to indulge her love of designing for children, and this small shop, which she opened late last year, is the result. The accessories and clothes stand out for their bright hues and whimsical touches, like miniature backpacks in the shapes of cartoon characters. CLP 5,000-17,000. Merced 346. 56-2-2664-8178. modaminiatura.com.

Ona: This bi-level store sells two renditions of Andean handicrafts. Half the selection, like rugs, scarves and ponchos made from sheep's wool, are from artisans in mountains, while the remainder comes courtesy of Chilean designers who do modern interpretations of traditional works like wooden salad bowls and serving dishes. Prices from CLP 5,000-1,000,000. Victoria Subercaseaux 295. 56-2-632-1859. onachile.com.

Hall Central: Discreetly hidden in the rear of a courtyard, this high-end women's clothing store carries the creations of independent designers mainly from Chile.

The owner, Piedad Aguilar Izquierdo, prides herself on finding the latest talent and is constantly adding to the eclectic selection of tasteful daytime dresses, pants, tops and jackets. Prices from CLP 10,000-210,000.

Merced 346. 56-2-664-0763. hallcentral.cl.

The New York Times

(China Daily 11/10/2013 page16)