Stylish Kicks at Gems

John Mooney appreciates a rare find, whether street-smart shoes or off-the-radar real estate. He’s the owner of Gems, a coed shoes-and-shirts shop on the backside of Pioneer Square, new last June. His sense of discovery is seen in his urban professional leather sneakers from New York–based Clae ($100–$140), Netherlands’ Scotch & Soda clothing (think Ralph Lauren Purple Label meets Abercrombie, $120–$350) and Tarina Tarantino Hello Kitty jewelry collaborations. Wander in and the dark mood, glam chandelier and art-adorned walls will have you thinking you stumbled into a nightclub. But one glance at the handcrafted Abington boots from Timberland Boot Company (exclusive to Gems in the United States, $120­–$180) and you know you’re in serious shoe country.