No doubt, fashion addicts had a month-long bout of withdrawal when five-year-old Hayes Valley boutique R.A.G. (Residents Apparel Gallery) closed its doors for a month for a major spruce up, which included becoming a top-to-bottom certified Green Business.

Becoming enviro-friendly is just one more thing that sets this hipster paradise apart from the crowd and it all stems from R.A.G.'s creative and innovative proprietor/curator Blakely Bass. Both a fashion lover and environmentalist, Blakely's co-op style boutique for men and women was designed to champion and support local and indie designers from day one. Operating as a true co-op, local apparel and accessory designers rent their shelf/hanger space and are encouraged to promote their businesses in store, to build a following and test out new styles.

One of the coolest things for shoppers is that the store -- in a new and happy light color palette anchored by natural wood -- is always filled with fresh items from an eclectic group of local talents, selling everything from edgy tees to chic streetwear to femme frocks and one-of-a-kind gems and lots more. Every month, an ever-changing lineup of 60-plus designers are showcased. It's like going to a new store every time you shop.

Yup, owner and store are green and gorgeous and they exemplify the best that San Francisco has to offer : peace, love and shopping.

R.A.G. is located at 541 Octavia Street; 415-621-7718.