Monster Art and Clothing

4.5 star rating
32 reviews Rating Details

Categories: Fashion, Art Galleries  [Edit]

5000 20th Ave NW
(between N Ballard Ave & N Leary Ave)
Seattle, WA 98107
Neighborhood: Ballard
(206) 789-0037
Hours:

Mon-Sun 10:30 am - 6:30 pm

Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Price Range:
$$
Parking:
Street
Good for Kids:
Yes
By Appointment Only:
No
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes

Review Highlights   

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"This shop helps support local artists in the area." (in 4 reviews)
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"...tees, and an Oregon artist's recycled fabric wrap skirts." (in 3 reviews)
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"I also love the socks, and the ever changing wall art..." (in 10 reviews)
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32 reviews in English

  • Review from Michael U.

    Dublin, OH

    5.0 star rating
    1/12/2012

    Supports local artists.

    Fantastic customer service - including the artists themselves.

    A great collection of socks, shirts, jewelry, paintings, and trinkets as well as soaps and scents.

    Ended up leaving with 3 pairs of socks (buy 2, get one half off) while my sister picked up a 100% recycled shirt that is soft, warm, and awesome.

    Top notch - definitely a place to pick up something to take back home and remember Seattle fondly with.

  • Review from Jessica B.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    12/17/2011

    I've seen many a boutique store in my day, but this one is a rare treasure. Yes, things here cost more than non-boutique places.. but the prices here arent as bad as most others. It's always a big plus when I walk into a store and can afford more than one thing!

    Some things are pricey- some fancy necklaces, fancy underwear, select scarves and hoodies... But other things are totes reasonable! Like the buy 2 get one half off super cool socks! That's $22.50 for three pairs of RAD socks!! Seem steep? No way, I received such a pair of socks for my birthday and it made me crazy happy!! Lovely no frills gift that most people would swoon over.

    They also have affordable other things like art! and some of the clothes, hats, etc.

    I like it :)

  • Review from Opal D.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    12/20/2011

    While nothing here is my style, this is a quirky fun shop.
    They carry a lot of screen printed-everything (skirts/hoodies/t-shirts/tank tops, underwear, etc.), art, and misc. sundries. Also has a good selection of fun knee-high socks.

  • Review from Rachel N.

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    • 25 friends
    • 61 reviews

    Belmont, CA

    4.0 star rating
    6/20/2011 1 photo

    I loved this store, it was so much fun just exploring and looking.  I love that all these clothes are handmade by local artists.  Anything you buy is unique.

    I got talking to the soon to be store owner of this store and she was very informative and friendly.  She was telling me about the clothes she makes- out of bamboo!  All organic and the bamboo fabric doesn't ever shrink and it's sooooooo soft!  There were a few that I really loved- the cheapest one was $50... which wasn't too bad but it pricey for me at the time.  If i wasn't a poor college student, I'd probably buy the one I liked the most!

    It feels good to support artists!  Buy something! =)

  • Review from James S.

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    • 1 friend
    • 49 reviews

    Santa Barbara, CA

    4.0 star rating
    8/7/2011

    Love the Pirouette colognes and soaps. The sock selection is hilarious in a good way. There are hundreds of unique greeting-card designs by a variety of artists. And I found a great ring there.

    But... I was disappointed that some wonderful pants I tried on were made in Indonesia. I thought part of the idea of the store was that it was local. I guess the pants were designed by a local designer, but it's hard to see how a pair of paints made in Indonesia can cost $150. I hope that means the people making the clothing are making decent money. That said, the pants ROCKED.

  • Review from Tiffany N.

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    12/21/2010 1 Check-in Here

    They sell socks that are black and have "business" written on the sides of them.  Which really only reminds me of one thing these days - Flight of the Conchords (http://www.youtube.com...).

    And that alone makes this feel like a 5 star place in my mind.

  • Review from Rebecca A.

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    • 0 friends
    • 5 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    12/10/2011

    This is my favorite little shop! If you are searching for unique holiday gifts and want to support a local business, this is definitely a place to check out!

  • Review from Jenn Q.

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    • 28 friends
    • 44 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    1/9/2011

    This might be the coolest store in Seattle. Maybe the coolest store anywhere. There isn't a single item that isn't lovingly hand selected (and you can tell because the staff will describe it to you in detail). Recycled artsy clothing to vivid, whimsical fine art, this place has it all.

    Plus... it has a trapeze! YES! On Ballard artwalk nights you can see a live performance by an aerialist... for free! (And there's a dj and food)

    If there is ever a time when I don't know what gift to get a special someone... I just head over to Monster, because I know there will be something PERFECT!

  • Review from Jessica B.

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    • 0 friends
    • 6 reviews

    San Bruno, CA

    3.0 star rating
    8/16/2011

    Funky local designs from clothes to accessories, kinda pricey, but it's good to support local businesses

  • Review from Annie M.

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    • 15 friends
    • 7 reviews

    Cheshire, CT

    3.0 star rating
    1/31/2011

    This store is adorable, so I can't put it down. (Not just adorable, though...it's got some fierce Sasquatches and giant squids in it too!)

    I believe the other reviewers covered their selection of clothing and accessories well in their descriptions, but I would like to point out the small, but well-curated selection of reading material in the store. They are often by local artists and authors, and all worth taking a look at. Highlights: Comics by transgendered artists (which I read in the store), coloring books for adults, and a book on "affordable, sustainable nesting skills" (which I purchased).

    It is a teeny store, I would like a bit more selection (I honestly expected more fuzzy hats), and everything is indie or local, thus expensive, but again, I can't put this store down.

  • Review from Michelle B.

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    • 16 friends
    • 22 reviews

    Omaha, NE

    5.0 star rating
    4/5/2011 1 Check-in Here

    Sheer delightful experience at this store.  Very cool combination of recycled clothing, hand fabricated items including hats, masks, jewelry, cards.  Amazing art.  Fun buttons.  Socks!  I think this is the best sock selection I've seen bar none!  The sales clerk was amazingly friendly and fun!  She was easy going and not high pressure or pretentious!  Thank you!  They have the kewlest kids tights -- one leg striped, the other leg plain with a couple designs.  Cute!  This shop is a must stop!

  • Review from Lilly A.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    9/1/2010

    This store is amazing. Hands down. I came in here for the first time with my best friend when this place was still in its opening mess/craze. The owner, and her friend (Holly and the other one I cannot remember her name....). They are extremely awesome and can pinpoint any item in the store from memory (granted, it is a small store, but even down to colour... impressive). I have some Antic T-Shirts from here which are made by a guy down in portland. Some of these items are one of a kind, but there are some that are reprinted favourites.

    Overall, a little spendy, but I can't think a better place to spend it!

  • Review from Katy H.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    2/5/2010 1 Check-in Here

    Are you a fan of all things relating to monsters? Would you want a monster mug? A monster necklace? What about a monster baby onesie? If you answered yes, then this is the place for you!

    This cute little spot in Ballard has tons of cute and quirky gifts that are mostly locally made. I've been a big fan of Justin Hillgrove's artwork for years and they've got a number of his paintings on the wall. If they're not in your budget they even have postcards and prints available!

  • Review from Becky L.

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    • 68 friends
    • 253 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    12/13/2008

    I've been twice and walked out both times giddy with pleasure at my purchases and walking a bit taller, full of pride to support local designers.
    -Wrap-pants that I can't walk 50 paces in without someone telling me how awesome they are.
    -Black tee w/ screen printed skeleton and pink stitching
    -White long-john top with black butterflies
    -Cute little multi-fabric boy shorts, girlie-sexy-ass grabbing-fun
    -My fave: my "Fuck." tag. It's tiny and I can safety pin it in inconspicuous places and always have a little edge to my accessories. AND the owner was sure to inform me that with a period at the end of the sentence, it is in fact a complete thought.

    They have tons of cool stuff, and a rotating ceiling activity of either a trapeze, aerial ropes, etc to play on (or get stuck in).

    Support this store! Ballard is all the better for it and Seattle is lucky to have a talent pool of fashion-makers sticking to the west coast.

  • Review from Heather H.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    12/25/2009 2 photos

    Yes!! Another amazing place to pick up local indie designers in Seattle.
    Don't come here with the expectation of finding things similar to H&M. Its more urbanesque than anything.
    Monster delivers plenty of cool local underground designers. The beautifully revamped Jenna Rose jackets immediately caught my eyes. Along with a large wall of hipster striped socks, fuzzy knitted hats n' hoodies, and hand printed tees which make for perfect gifting to non-Seattlites.
    Fun place to check out what Indie-Seattlites are wearing or gifting!

  • Review from Danicia d.

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    • 9 friends
    • 20 reviews

    Austin, TX

    5.0 star rating
    1/12/2009

    I've visited the store a few times now and adore it! I usually buy a lot of socks, being a Sock-It-To-Me fan, but I've bought a couple other bits.

    I have a great time when I walk in the door. There are some talented artists in the PacNW and it's nice to see so many of their wares in one place. Especially a place so welcoming and not freezing. Brrr!

    I highly recommend a stop in to say hello and see all the pretties!

  • Review from Crystal A.

    •  
    • 6 friends
    • 30 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    3/22/2010

    I walked in here after a disappointing day of walking from store to store in search of a cute skirt or wrap. The little storm cloud that was me set one foot in MA&C and instantly ... rainbows and puppy dogs where raining from the heavens!

    This place has a wonderful selection of goodies from under garments, hats, socks, and art ... and such eclectic jewelery!!! I could easily drop half of my paycheck here and I wouldn't have an ounce of buyers remorse!

    Some items are a bit spendy, but it's justified. Local artists designs ... and who here in Seattle doesn't like supporting local art?!?

    I'm absolutely coming back as much as my bank account will allow ... and I'm bringing friends ... friends with money!!!!

    I heart you Monster Art & Clothing! I heart you hard!!!

  • Review from Megan S.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 3/24/2009

    I got a wrap skirt!  Yay!

    If it weren't for the owner Holly helping me out, I still wouldn't have one, but she was more than happy to help me in and out of several different skirts.  She even seemed to be genuinely happy to help.

    It was also really nice being there on a Sunday afternoon and seeing a rush of repeat customers.  I overheard one couple saying they had come in for an octopus print hoodie for their gramps who was turning 80.  So cute.  

    Anyway, so I found more stuff that's going on my wish list!!!

    Listed in: Ballard, Home Sweet Home

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 5.0 star rating
      1/9/2009

      I really really want one of the wrap skirts.  I've been eyeing them for months, but they're all so… Read more »

  • Review from Michele B.

    •  
    • 1 friend
    • 14 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    4/9/2011

    I heart Monster!!! Great place to find gifts for yourself, friends and family. Wonderful art and local choices.

  • Review from cat n.

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    • 74 friends
    • 30 reviews

    San Leandro, CA

    5.0 star rating
    2/3/2011

    This shop helps support local artists in the area. They carry artwork, figurines, greeting cards, jewelery and purses. They sell clothing for men, women and also children. They have a ton of SOCKS!!!! They have a huge variety of designs here, it's worth checking out.

  • Review from Sally N.

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    • 1 friend
    • 40 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    4/12/2009

    I must review, although I'm not entirely sure I have anything new to offer! I first went in during Ballard art walk, and this place always has a fabulous show running. They also had an aerialista do a short performance! So def. check out during second Saturdays.

    Yesterday I finally left with my first purchase - a pair of ultra comfortable, handmade skivvies I would wear every day if that weren't pretty gross as well as being socially unacceptable. I bought some cards and some hair things, and lusted after a few wrap skirts. I LOVE the staff here! Clearly I will be shopping there again.

  • Review from terrell m.

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    • 159 friends
    • 458 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    9/26/2008

    I happen to love monsters! Not the real kind, but the artsy kind you find on t-shirts, in children's books or in the form of pillows. Monster Art and Clothing not only sells all things monster, they support local artists. Please check it out!

  • Review from Gena M.

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    • 9 friends
    • 1 review

    San Bruno, CA

    5.0 star rating
    9/29/2008

    I wandered into this awesome store earlier this week while visiting Seattle. Over a hour later, I left with a totally sweet t-shirt designed by a talented local artist named Tara Smith (of Revival Ink), a big smile on my face and a nicer outlook on life in Seattle.  I really wanted to leave with much more (had my eye on at least 5 other pieces!) but I'm on a tight budget at the moment.  Definitely will be headed back there when I return to Seattle not only to check out what cool clothing and accessories are perfectly displayed for my eyes to ogle at but to visit the brains behind the store, Holly.  Holly is fantastic and she makes you feel super welcome and comfortable in her store.  She carries the right balance of artists and artistic talent.  I dig the cohesion of the art, accessories and clothing she carries.  She's only been open for 3-4 weeks but I see a lot of great success in her future.  Go in and check out all the neat goodies she carries and support local artists in the process.
    Best of luck to you, Holly!:)

  • Review from Barry B.

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    • 7 friends
    • 17 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    7/19/2010

    Holly rocks!  They have the best original locally made clothing anywhere.  I'm a big fan of the antic t-shirts and hoodies.  All good stuff.  Go.  It's a must, if you live here or just visiting....  GO!

  • Review from Tara S.

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    • 23 friends
    • 15 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    3/16/2009

    I love this store! This is the best place in Ballard to find a unique gift for the person who has everything. All the items in this store are made my local artists. Many of them are eco friendly, and organic. For example, Revival Ink's Bamboo tees, and an Oregon artist's recycled fabric wrap skirts. I also love the socks, and the ever changing wall art selection. Monster rocks!

  • Review from Rachel H.

    •  
    • 12 friends
    • 41 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    8/25/2009

    I don't often care about shopping, but a couple Sundays ago I was in Ballard and the storefront (and name!) had some sort of tractor-beam hold on me.  Sure enough, I walked in and wanted everything.  Left with FANTASTIC local creations, a hat and skirt.  Holly was incredibly charming and showed me how to wear the hat most adorably.  And I can't stop thinking about other things in there...

  • Review from Anthony M.

    •  
    • 3 friends
    • 73 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    12/28/2009

    This shop is pretty sweet. A lot of local artists have clothing here to take a look at which is a plus in my opinion. The wall of knee high socks help save me from xmas shopping ideas for the GF. The girl at the register was also very nice, defiantly be checking it again.

  • Review from Luke K.

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    • 0 friends
    • 12 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    5/18/2009

    very cool place.  I love the art, and there's a lot of eco-friendly clothing items here.

    My girlfriend got me a really cool t-shirt and some cool luchador socks.

    If you're in Ballard, make sure to stop on by.   Especially during art walk, with free food, music, and special performances!

  • Review from jaime f.

    •  
    • 1 friend
    • 1 review

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    11/20/2009

    Not only is this store super cool because it's in the heart of one of my favorite neighborhoods-Ballard, but it supports and showcases some of the most progressive, indie designers in Seattle. The clothes, the accessories, the art, and the staff are awesome! I bought one of the coolest skirts and hats in the world here. Thats right, my friend-The coolest in the world!!

  • Review from renah s.

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    • 51 friends
    • 60 reviews

    San Diego, CA

    4.0 star rating
    2/17/2009

    a friend told me about monster a while ago and i finally went in yesterday. the store is full of local artist productions. there are some cute t-shirts, socks and hats. there are also very cool inexpensive prints. i bought a pair of pretty silver earrings, and want a pair of the handmade arm warmers or leg warmers, so adorable. it is definitely a place to check out when you are walking around ballard.

  • Review from k b.

    •  
    • 1 friend
    • 4 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    11/8/2010

    Love this place. Always stocked with adorable things and owner is always really nice.

  • Review from Nick M.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 4 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    3/23/2010

    I have to mention that there are some excellent things here for those who, like me, have a Y chromosome (though there's admittedly more for ladies 'n' babies).  I bought a hoodie for a trip to foggy San Francisco--where a friend spent the better part of an afternoon trying to convince me that I needed to give it to her!  Also got a swell coat with some sublime stitching: it's truly art-and-clothing.  I am a person who tends not to buy clothes unless they really grab me, so it was a treat to find this place.  So support local artists (including the delightful owner), and wear their work!

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