- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
A Miner Miracle Shop
Categories: Shopping Fashion Women's Clothing Local Services Community Service/Non-Profit Women's Clothing, Community Service/Non-Profit [Edit]
441 Sutter St(at Stockton St)
San Francisco, CA 94108
Neighborhood: Union Square
(415) 398-2155
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Mimi T. said: "Full disclosure..I personally know the designer and owner of this fabulous boutique...and I am also a fan of her collections. I worked with Saffron Rare Threads when I had a boutiue of my own..and my clients loved her classic and…" read more »
36 reviews for A Miner Miracle Shop
Review Highlights
-
"The shoes were an Ann Taylor sample for $15." In 14 reviews -
"The sample sales are legendary and the selection is..." In 5 reviews -
"and walk out with a new wardrobe." In 3 reviews
Loading...
36 reviews in English
-
Review from nomi c.
San Francisco, CA
12/11/2011
This place is amazing! I am office-clothes shopping impaired. Want get the necessary items to dress as an one legged clown pirate from 1650? Can do. Peacock feathers to build an Edwardian headpiece? No problem. Buy grown up clothes to wear in a grown up office? um.... excuse me but I must go cower under the bed in terror.
This place is small enough that I didn't panic, had one rack of "reward" blouses for me (Edwardian or Gypsies Tramps & Thieves? The line... I cannot see it...) for $10 each! Which I allowed myself (Shiny! Sparkly Buttons, Deep Green! Sparkly buttons, Black with little kitten paw-like fur at the end of the ties!) after finding:
2 great work blouses (Anne Klein samples)
1 work pant (also some brand of really good quality)
a work dress/sweater combo (that 2 different colleagues -colleagues! I'm so grown up!- noticed & compliment me on)
a non-hideous jacket for riding my bike to work
Grey comfy grey sweater suitable for work but with pearly buttons suitable for me.
And the afore mentioned divine shiny things -- all for $320 before tax. 8 things, $320. Average price of $40 each. For great quality grown up clothes.
Saved. My. Life. Ok, maybe just my career. -
Review from Gloria H.
3/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
Walked by once when they were closed. It looked so promising that I bookmarked it to visit at a later time.
Finally made it in when we were in the area but was quite disappointed in the selection - it was mostly Ann Taylor items.
I guess it doesn't matter anyway since they are closing.Comment from Kathy M. of A Miner Miracle Shop 4/2/2012
We are very sorry you had a disappointing experience. We… More » -
Review from Amanda W.
12/9/2011
I wish I could be a regular here... the deals are awesome and so are the pieces! Lots of Ann Taylor tops and bottoms, Tahari dresses and coats, Calvin Klein and DKNY coats. I walked around and picked out 12 things to try on. The only thing that fit me was a Tahari dress for $64. The cheapy in me passed on the opportunity (I can find better at Marshalls... see Marshalls review).
However, if you're a size 2 or below, don't bother because nothing will fit you. Otherwise, great place for work clothes and coats. -
Review from Susangela M.
Oakland, CA
1/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
I love this place as well, but it's closing??? I came for the sample sale last weekend. $3 for high end brand name Ann Taylor clothing. Do I care that it's from a year or two ago? No. Do I care that it says "SAMPLE" in black ink across the butt? Yep. I was told by a few women in the know, sometimes it washes out and sometimes it doesn't. But I dug through the boxes and sure enough found a few cool things. Downstairs on the ground floor is where the regular folks shop. I picked up a skirt, two tops, a jacket and two prs of sunglasses = $118. Score.
-
Review from Sacha M.
Newport Beach, CA
8/26/2011
I love this place!
Every time I'm in SF, this is a definite stop for me. I have raked in the deals at this joint repeatedly. This is a great place for tops and jackets, especially.
I have directed numerous friends and family members to this place, and we all love it. You will undoubtedly find great deals here, and it's a win win situation; you get great clothes for less money, and people in need benefit from what otherwise would've been a random shopping pursuit.
Come here, dig, and benefit both the community and your closet! -
Review from Katherine C.
San Francisco, CA
12/8/2011
ONE OF MY FAVORITE shops in SF!!! I have gotten so many amazing deals here. TONS of Ann Taylor, some CK, DKNY, Michael Kors. Thank god they are closing this location and moving to a smaller location... this will give my wallet a break.
-
Review from Leah H.
San Francisco, CA
1/25/2011
Secret shopping weapon.
If you give yourself three hours and are willing to dig for treasure, you will walk out with merino wool, cashmere, and jersey knits with beautiful twill-tape edging. At first glance, you will see lots of old lady clothes. Keep looking. Look at the details... tucked in between those 10 so-so Michael Kors jackets is the really beautiful one -- that costs less than 40 bucks.
Racks are organized by color. The upstairs is all sale. And the money goes to charity. And if you're extra lucky and focused, you'll discover all of the fantastic samples Ann Taylor buyers purchase at international boutiques and fashion shows...with the Japanese tags still on them.
Woo. hoo! -
Review from Chloe M.
11/18/2011
Lots and lots of Ann Taylor LOFT pieces. I didn't find anything that was my taste, but it's for a great cause. If you are in the market for business casual clothes, this would be a good place to add to your shopping store list.
-
Review from Allison K.
Arlington, VA
12/9/2010
I love Ann Taylor, and now I love a Miner Miracle almost more! They have the most amazing AT stuff at 50% or more off the regular price. They also have a ton of other designers at ridiculous prices, and it all goes to benefit this nonprofit, which could be my favorite part.
A quick note, just check the garment. Sometimes I've found an item has SAMPLE stamped on it somewhere, and on lighter clothes you might be able to see it while you wear it. -
Review from Amanda H.
San Francisco, CA
10/19/2011
I was an intern at a Miner Miracle Shop. All around, it was a great experience. I got to work with an awesome group of people. Going into it, I knew it was a retail internship, it was advertised as a merchandising internship as well. I didn't get to see much of the merchandising side of things. As I mainly did sales work. It would have made my internship more worth while if I got to do more with merchandising and buying part of the store. There is great potential in this internship program. My advise: Give interns more responsibilities and creative tasks!
-
Review from Chiquita y.
Emeryville, CA
9/3/2009
Are you kidding?
A Miner Miracle has precisely the clothing items I need, at prices I can afford on a nonprofit salary...and none of those damned lines at the register like Ross. And better quality than "wash it twice and watch is dissolve" H & M.
Plus, their mission (to help poor women score nice clothes for interviews) is so compelling.
Note to my former coworker chica: They've expanded their sizes, and have way more than just size 6-8 (sample size) available now. Many, many size 10, 12, 14's.Listed in: I shop
-
Review from Michelle B.
San Francisco, CA
3/26/2009
I love this place! It's a bit hidden on Mission, possibly because across the street from it is Bloomingdale's. lol.
Anyway, we stumbled upon this store right after parking at the 5th and Mission garage. We saw the store window right when we stepped out of the elevator. Might as well check it out, right?
They had racks of Anne Taylor, DKNY, Michael Kors, etc and they're pretty cheap, compared to department stores and malls! I bought a pair of Ann Taylor pumps for $40 and a cardigan for $24. It can't be any better than that! In the back, they sell some scarves and small purses and a VERY limited collection of shoes. The dress sizes are pretty limited in stock but they have sizes ranging from 2-24 (check out the skirt rack).
The style of clothes they have are mainly office work clothes or if you're looking for an outfit to wear to a job interview. That kind of style.
I'll be back soon. =]Listed in: Thrifting my $$$
-
Review from Tracee E.
San Rafael, CA
10/23/2008
Wow- walked right by and was intrigued by the small window. With my car racking up serious parking fees something in my head told me to turn around and explore this small but fabulous shop.
This place is like a gold mine of good professional-clothing finds! (Hence the name Miner?) The prices are better than right and beat Macy's even on their craziest of sales. The quality is also great. I would give this place 5 stars if I were a size 8 because everything that they get from Anne Taylor (and its alot) is an 8- I'm almost tempted to diet just to be able to buy more goodies here!
The staff is also extremely friendly and helpful. They don't take American Express though, so you can leave home without it.Listed in: Born to Shop
-
Review from Nickee M.
San Francisco, CA
8/19/2006
Being one of the working schleps in this city, I've always managed to miss getting into A Miner Miracle-but was continually teased day by day on my way to Cal Train by the most amazing delights in their windows.
I finally left work early one day and decided to venture in. The most spectacular finds are within! Ann Taylor Loft samples and more abound. How do they do it? A Miner Miracle is a non-profit organization that helps disadvantaged men and women get outfitted for the workforce.
A majority of their apparel are new, tagged items from the cities loftiest establishments. I have seen pashminas here, silk bags, and slamming accessories. I've bought a majority of my suits here.
One should come on a weekly basis and be prepared to buy. Credit cards and cash only-no checks- IIf you blink, or put your item down for even a few minutes-it will be swept up by another customer! So if you want it-hold on to it till you reach the till.
They have a communal dressing room, so if you're modest-it might be slightly uncomfortable-but I have made the best finds in the dressing room-and there is a camaderie between fellow patrons as clothes are swapped back and forth easily-as well as supportive comments.
My latest find was a black silk cocktail dress-non-sample, with the original Ann Taylor $198 tag on it and I got it for $40. Amazing! -
Review from Shannon L.
Fremont, CA
8/8/2010
One of the few times when you will do some guilt-free spending! It's all for a great cause. The store gets samples from some name brands (lots of Ann Taylor) and sells them to the public. All the money goes back into getting more clothes to sell and to support the vision: where they help dress women who are entering the job force.
The caviat is that even though the clothes are cheaper than in the regular store, a lot of the inventory consists of sizes 6 and up so if you're smaller, you might not find something. Also, they're all sample sizes so they may not fit the best and if you're really concerned with keeping up with trends, most of the stuff is from seasons back. I would say the clothes definitely cater to the 30+ working woman but I was able to score a pretty necklace which I can wear to work or at night.
The staff was extremely friendly and the customers were in a good mood so there's just a lot of positive energy emanating throughout this place. At the wall near the entrance, you can see before and after pictures of women that have been dressed by Miner Miracle. -
Review from Anastasia B.
San Francisco, CA
12/3/2007
This store is definitely one of the city's best kept secrets for professional women's clothing. The majority of their clothes are donated by Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft, and size 8 runs rampant throughout the store. Ann Taylor must think that's the average woman's size. Whatever. If you can fit into these clothes, then this is the place for you. The prices are amazing!
And......oh, a minor detail......they do good too! A Miner Miracle is a non-profit that provides professional clothing and image counseling to low-income men, women, and young adults seeking employment. Check them out......but damn you for finding any size 6's!Listed in: I left my heart in San…, "Sashay, Shante!"
-
Review from Flory T.
Castro Valley, CA
6/25/2007
If I didn't have to attend a mandatory two-day seminar, I would've spent the entire time in this shop.
In a short span of thirty minutes I rushed through several racks, tried them on (yeah, the communal dressing room is awkward at first but you get used to it), paid for my items and browsed a few more racks. Talk about speed shopping...it reminded me of that one grocery game (can't recall the name).
I can't wait to return next time I'm in the city. Too bad they're closed on weekends.
One star removed because the sizes are limited and my co-workers couldn't shop for clothes. Thus, giving them more time to check out and snag purses before I could get to that section. Ugh.
I agree that you have to hold on to something you want (or aren't sure about) until you're ready to check out. I missed out on an adorable leather jacket because I was undecided and put the thing back on the rack. -
Review from Laura S.
San Francisco, CA
5/13/2011
I was shocked reading several reviews posted here and felt obligated to set a couple things straight. First, I would like to dispel any negative things said about the owner and founder Kathy Miner while at the same time addressing the poor advise towards fashion students not to intern here. When it comes to smart,savvy,successful and entrepreneurial business women I can't think of anyone that supersedes Kathy Miner.Mind you she is all of these things with the added bonus of empathy which is expressed in every facet of what A Miner Miracle is. This is coming from someone who has been behind the scenes and I can attest first hand that
1- Her rent is not free.Notice that the Shop recently changed locations.One reason why was the high cost of rent at the old location.
2- The clothing sold is not second hand nor free.The reason why she is able to offer such amazing deals on brand new designer clothing is because Kathy Miner has made this concept a life mission which means she put in the effort and work of building close relationships with designers in New York in order to purchase the clothing at such rock bottom prices.
3- Her intern program is accredited by all fashion schools and universities.Unless you doubt the approval by the state board of education for this intern program then let me assure you that as an intern you will get whatever it is you put into it.(as with other internships) When studying the fashion industry, specifically the retail and merchandising aspect of it, A Miner Miracle will show you every aspect of the business.I should also mention that being able to work so closely with Kathy in itself offers a first hand look at what it takes to be a successful business woman.
Now as far as The Shop goes, I also noticed some negative reviews regarding staff. Now this, I can honestly say was a problem in the past. As in any working environment it takes a bit of time to weed out employees that truly have the best intentions for the good of the company as well as the satisfaction of the customer. I am happy to know now that certain ex employees are no longer employed by A Miner Miracle and it has made quite a difference.
Overall,there really is not anywhere in the city to find such amazing deals on in season designer clothing. The sample sales are legendary and the selection is fabulous. And the bottom line is all the profits are indeed going towards a worthy cause that really does benefit low income individuals in our city that just need that extra push to better their lives.There's a reason why A Miner Miracle has received countless awards including The Oprah Angel Network award. You must go see for yourself! -
Review from Jennifer B.
San Francisco, CA
5/15/2010
Go. Spend. Feel REALLY good about spending. Get unique clothes since they have samples galore of mostly professional clothing perfect for the office.
Only downside is their sizes, since they are samples they don't have every size available. Biggest scores are for the size 8's and 18's. Also, you can get some great shoes if you are a 6 or a 9.
Great accessories too, lots of scarves and belts. Really helpful staff that obviously love where they work, which is just an added bonus. -
Review from Raw Chef Christina B.
Lakeport, CA
9/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
Fabulous designer clothing at great prices. Some are designer samples. I will be back to this bargain hunters paradise! I found a DNKY Pea Coat with a ruffle along the front edge and neck that is so trendy I spotted it in a magazine the night before, walked into the shop and they had two of them, one in my size. Oh...it is mine now! Worth the 2 block walk up from Union Square. Bonus feel-good, the profits are donated to charity. Your next fabulous shopping score is in there if you take the time to look. Can't wait to go back.
-
Review from E C.
San Francisco, CA
11/30/2007
One of the city's best kept secrets for discounted clothing/purses/shoes/accessories from Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft.
They're mostly samples, so it sometimes has a big "sample" label stamped on the inside (other times, it's removed by the store) and little tags that tell you when the item was supposed to debut at Ann Taylor (some of it goes back a season or two). I once bought a coat that wasn't set to hit stores for another few months.
The clothing are generally sized medium or 8 and the shoes are sizes 6 and 9.
Best of it all -- you're shopping for a good cause! -
Review from Christina C.
Berkeley, CA
Updated - 11/21/2009
When I think of getting a job, I think about suit, pantyhose, button down shirts, and overall genericide (it's a word, really). Genericide makes me sad. It makes me plain. And I'm plain enough without the uniform.
Being a student, I cannot afford to spend $40 per shirt on enough button down shirts to last me through a week. I was hoping to spend around $10-$20 per shirt. I was also praying that the shirts would be of good enough quality that I could launder them once or twice a month without seriously compromising the integrity of the fabric.
After hearing about the sale here, I walked in and it was love at first sight.
1: everything here is just my size! It only comes in 1 size, the sample size, and if it doesn't fit immediately, it's because the proportions are wrong, not because I'm too embarrassed to reach for that non-zero digit size.
2: the prices are written on the wall, regardless of what the design. Short sleeved tops are $12. Long sleeve is $16. Designer jeans are $15. I got the greatest sexy librarian high waist pencil skirt for $12.
3: the quality is also very very good. It's a brand you normally buy in department stores. They even have dresses. Fancy, party, casual, summer, etc.
The dressing room is that communal thing, and the mirrors are rescued from the carnival (I'm not really that pear shaped, am I? Even my head?). This is the best place. I can't look at H&M, Forever 21, or any of those inferior shops now.
Once a month, they have this crazy $3 sale where all the women from Chinatown come and fight over the clothing the way people in communist Russia fought over bread. You better watch your back during those sales because you will get knifed for that cute sweater. And bring water. Shopping can be like a marathon, stay hydrated and focused.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
11/21/2009
Ever since I got through my 1L year, my reviews are more diplomatic. It helps when I'm not sure who… Read more »
-
-
Review from Joanna R.
Pacifica, CA
8/28/2008
I almost don't want to share this one but....
I just bought myself a really nice silk blend machine washable cardigan sweater for around $25!!! Very nice and smooth looking and it's the exact same deep purple I've been looking for!!! :-D
They also got quite a selection on leather jackets, dress pants, suits, shoes, scarves, etc... The only problem for me... I'm a size 2 Petite and A LOT of the Ann Taylor stuff (which I am a BIG FAN of, BTW) is a size 8 Regular (which is their sample size.) That said, there were quite a few items that would definitely fit me. If you like stuff from Lucy's, they have them here too! (Though it sure doesn't look like fitness clothing though. It looks like just casual wear.)
And yes, all this goes to a very honorable charity too!!! :-)
Now if they have lululemon stuff too... I would be here ALL THE TIME!!! -
Review from DX T.
Newport Beach, CA
4/2/2011
Stars are only given with respect to the fact that this place is for a good cause.
Other than that, had a poor experience. Dropped by on recent beautiful Saturday since I love supporting causes through shopping. Had no acknowledgement or friendly hello or nod.. just the evil eye to make me feel that I don't belong although there were only about 4 people in the WHOLE store?!
Now, I don't need lots or much attention gathering things as I shop since shopping is my hobby:) , but c'mon - a smile and respectful vibes go a lonnnnngggg wayyyy.
If you want shoppers to support your organization/cause - be inclusive to those that walk in and don't make assumptions on customers as many of us may be able to purchase lots & lots from you:)
Even after going upstairs to the 'sale' section and being the only one present, a worker went up and pretended to put things back while i browsed - again, NO smile, acknowledgment, nod or excuse me? Hello?
Left without the 15 items I had my eyes one due to bad energy. -
Review from Tricia A.
Roseville, CA
10/26/2010 1 photo
I like the concept of this store. I saw tons of Ann Taylor items, which isn't really my taste; but the items they had were in great condition. Luckily, I found an authentic leather clutch, slightly used for $20. It's a steal considering that it was originally $79. I'd come back for the accessories.
-
Review from Janet S.
San Francisco, CA
9/18/2008
I'm giving this place 5 stars based on the customer services on its own. If i can give it more stars I would... the ladies there are super duper nice. and the clothes there, although sometimes its hard to find my size, are a great deal when you can find them. I got a long trench Lucy jacket for $25. what a steal.
-
Review from CJ C.
Honolulu, HI
2/25/2011
Every time I come to SF, I have to stop here. Lovely clothes, great bargains, AND you are making a charitable contribution--the trifecta of things closest to my heart! I ALWAYS find something here. OK, this is not for people who like to be waited on hand and foot. You have to DIG to find good things, but patience and persistence will be rewarded. This last trip I bought lingerie, a top, dress slacks, and the most adorable pair of snakeskin peep toe pumps with a stacked high heel! The shoes were an Ann Taylor sample for $15. Total for all those items--under $65. This is guilt free shopping at its best!
-
Review from P C.
San Jose, CA
9/28/2011 8 Check-ins Here
Love this store. Their sample sales are awesome, though you have to sift trough boxes of clothes. But then again, $3 top and $5 jackets aren't gonna come easy. The regular sale items are also well priced. And a good range of sizes (unlike LA sample sale places where anything over a size 2 is a miracle indeed). And proceeds go to women empowerment NGO. Awesome.
-
Review from Eileen C.
San Francisco, CA
7/11/2010
I do like the sample sales which is the only reason why I come here. However they have a strict policy about EVERYTHING. There's this old lady there who puts a damper on the shopping and shoots this eagle eye at you. How intimidating. Also there's Olivia who's beyond any strict I know. Good clothes, bad service. Only reason why it got 2 stars.
Comment from Kathy M. of A Miner Miracle Shop 10/25/2010
We are very sorry you had a bad experience. We have since… More » -
Review from Maria B.
San Francisco, CA
11/3/2010
I hate to give this store a poor review because I know the money goes to charity, but the person who I believe is the manager here is SO RUDE! The sales clerks are really friendly, and there are some good clothing items to choose from here, but I ended up walking away from a purchase because I didn't appreciate the rude manager and how the prices kept changing depending on who I asked. Still, I gave it 3 stars because of the charity aspect of this place.
-
Review from Nicole F.
San Francisco, CA
5/29/2008
I am the super bargain hunter, it is the inner haggler that I can't shake. I mean I am someone who snaked amazing monster Betsy Johnson pumps for $20. Long story, but this brings me to the point. Minor Miracle is so the place to be. They have tons of amazing things. Granted most items are Ann Taylor, yet I go the most amazing cashmere and rabbit long sweater coat thing for $35, when wholesale was $150.00. Enough said. Go there, all proceeds go to NP, so this is a great find. Plus they have killer head bands and bags!!!
-
Review from Maggie M.
San Francisco, CA
8/26/2009
A true hidden gem in San Francisco. You could walk in with $200. and walk out with a new wardrobe. For plus size folks the selection is not huge but better than most and their prices cannot be beat. Proceeds go to charity.
-
Review from Helen L.
Updated - 1/15/2010
They have a sale at their offsite on 1/16, 18, 19, $3, 411 Sutter St. Remember no pushing and shoving!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
3/26/2009
I love this store. It gives back to the community. If you give them your email, they will tell you… Read more »
-
-
Review from Lisa W.
San Mateo, CA
2/27/2009
I LOVE A Miner Miracle's SHOP!!!! I don't even know where to begin to describe what a great place it is. They carry a ton of amazing brands (Via Spiga, Michael Kors, Lucy, Ann Taylor, etc.) at unbelievably low prices!!!! The clothes are unique and fresh and I always walk out of there with large bags full of great new clothes at a fraction of their retail price. I also love that they are stocked with plenty of smaller sizes so I can always find what I'm looking for. SHOP doesn't just have clothing. I've found amazing deals on beautiful pashmina shawls, jewelry, purses, shoes and bath and beauty products. The staff are friendly and helpful and make the shopping experience fun.
-
Review from Joan S.
San Francisco, CA
9/28/2009
Great place with great deals. Awesome customer service. It's truly a hidden gem in San Francisco.
-
Review from Margaret S.
San Francisco, CA
5/5/2009
This is my happy place. The sample sales are my new hobby. I have a whole collection of stain removers because of this place. I may actually give up my therapist and just go here for my sanity.
