Nestled in the heart of Santa Ynez, where Old West charm meets modern elegance, Charlotte’s of Santa Ynez is more than a boutique—it’s a curated celebration of history, artistry, and craftsmanship. Owned and thoughtfully assembled by Charlotte herself, the shop has become a destination for discerning collectors, offering an exquisite selection of vintage Native American jewelry, Mexican silver, and Western collectibles.
Charlotte’s journey into fine jewelry and antiques began with her husband’s Santa Ynez Saddlery, which she managed for five years. While the saddle shop was essential to the Valley, Charlotte was drawn to curating unique pieces—silver bits, spurs, romals, reatas, art, and, most notably, vintage jewelry. "The saddle shop was definitely a needed business in the Valley, but it was a challenge to keep staffed and manage, so I took all of the fun inventory out of there and opened Charlotte’s of Santa Ynez," shares Charlotte.
Stepping inside, Charlotte notes, "I have a customer who calls it 'the happy play place.' I encourage people to try pieces on, play with them, and bring in their own jewelry that they are trying to match. The inventory is expansive, so it’s hard not to find what you're looking for!" The boutique’s warm, inviting atmosphere encourages visitors to explore, try on pieces, and even bring in their own jewelry to find the perfect match. Charlotte’s deep appreciation for history is woven into every piece she selects, from classic turquoise cuffs to rare artifacts like an Apache necklace from the mid-to-late 1800s, crafted from red mud beads and repurposed brass cavalry buttons—a testament to resilience and tradition.
Beyond its cultural significance, Charlotte’s embodies the Santa Ynez Valley’s signature style. Since the 1940s, ranchers returning from Arizona have brought back handcrafted Native American jewelry, making turquoise an enduring local fashion staple. Today, Charlotte’s honors that legacy, offering everything from $12 stud earrings to $6,000 concho belts, ensuring something for every admirer of fine craftsmanship.
Elevating the boutique experience, Charlotte collaborates with Southwestern artisans and hosts a bi-monthly tasting series featuring local wineries, distilleries, and breweries. This May, she welcomes Casa del Sol, a premium Mexican-made tequila, for an evening of fine spirits and community gathering. Adding to the charm, her husband, renowned horseman Ramon Becerra, will offer complimentary carriage rides through the Valley, making the event a true celebration of heritage and hospitality.
For those with an eye for the exquisite and a love of storytelling, Charlotte’s of Santa Ynez is a must-visit destination, where every piece carries a history, and every visit is an adventure in discovery.
Visit Charlotte’s of SY at 3547 Sagunto Street to experience it yourself.