Les Mechantes women's boutique has joined the mix of shops at Ghirardelli Square aiming to lure more locals back to the traditionally tourist-heavy destination. It opened Monday and will host a grand opening all day Saturday with a drop-in party. Hours at the 900 North Point St. storefront are 11am–6pm daily.

The store carries breezy tops, maxi dresses, caftans and other apparel made from silk, linen, cotton and other loose fabrics with an earthy yet bright appeal. "We try to find really good-quality garments typically made in the U.S.A. at reasonable price points," said Ashley Arabian of Nob Hill, who owns the shop with her mother, Delores Arabian of the Marina, and friend Kat Ensign of North Beach. The three also design some of the clothing. "We like to reflect a more natural look; nothing over the top," Ashley added.

Some items not made in the United States—such as the jewelry from Kenya or Manos Zapotecas handbags from a village in Oaxaca, Mexico—help women there support their families and better themselves economically. Prices range from about $29 to $340, with most pieces in the $100–$200 range. The brand launched online on November 3rd, 2014; this is its first foray into brick-and-mortar.

Jamestown, the owner of New York’s Chelsea Market, bought the retail portion of San Francisco’s Ghirardelli Square in September of 2013. One of their goals, according to Les Mechantes' owners, is to foster a more local vibe. "Jamestown gave us a great deal," Ashley Arabian said. "They want local San Franciscans here and not just tourists."

Of course, the tourist traffic is essential, but it's a change of pace to see a mix of stores by and from locals in the space. Jackson & Polk, Lola of North Beach and Yap are already there, among others, and a huge buzz broke out in January when it was announced chef Jonathan Waxman was returning from New York to open a new restaurant in Ghirardelli Square.