I find myself more and more often drawn to small stores with a smaller selection, rather than larger stores. Maybe it's because I'm lazy, but I have come to appreciate the fact that chances are the small store will not have room for shitty merchandise and only displays the best. This is true of Girl Friday. I bought a Soya & Kyo winter coat there last year (on sale!) and the staff were friendly and helpful, advising me of the right fit for a down parka. I bought a purse there a couple months ago that looks much more expensive than it actually was, also on sale.
Don't be swayed by a couple pricey items, reasonable gems can be found!