Nothing’s worse than showing up to a party in the same Forever 21 shirt as someone else, so venture out of the mall and into the unique boutiques found on West Third Street for your next shopping excursion.

A step up from the often less-than-classy shops found on Melrose, but a giant leap down from the high price points of Rodeo, West Third Street is the perfect place for shopping enthusiasts of all budgets.
Most of the stores are located on the stretch between Fairfax and La Cienega, so put on a pair of cute and comfy flats and get ready for a stylish stroll.
 
Milk
8209 W. 3rd St.
http://www.shopatmilk.com/

A favorite shopping destination for celebrities and style enthusiasts alike, Milk is the place to go for designer duds. Founded by a pair of fashion-savvy cousins in 2005, the one-stop-shop offers clothes, shoes and accessories for both men and women, as well as books, gift items and beauty products. The scrupulously edited inventory includes pieces from well-known names (Jill Stuart, Diane von Furstenberg, Missoni) as well as notable up-and-comers.
 
Polkadots & Moonbeams
8367 W. 3rd St.
http://polkadotsandmoonbeams.com/

The famed boutique has been a Third Street staple since 1982, and now it encompasses two stores: one is home to funky vintage finds, while the other houses new trendy pieces. Whether you’re looking for a pair of gorgeous antique earrings or the latest hot item, Polkadots and Moonbeams is a can’t-miss place to shop.
 
Satine
8134 W. 3rd St.
http://www.satineboutique.com/

A newer addition to the Third Street set, Satine is a luxury retailer that caters to lovers of international style, bringing together looks from Tokyo, Paris, Sydney, New York and Los Angeles. The boutique carries both high-end designer looks right off the runway and standout pieces from indie designers. In addition to clothing, shoes and accessories, the store also carries a selection of toys and gadgets.
 
Ethel
8236 W. 3rd St.
http://www.ethelboutique.com/

This local gem caters to the shopper that wants to be stylish but not overly trendy. Selling high-quality women’s apparel at reasonable price points, Ethel is the place to go for everything from casual T-shirts and cozy sweaters, to gorgeous dresses and fancy camisoles.
 
Douglas Fir
8311 W. 3rd St.

This men’s shop offers a sophisticated shopping experience for stylish L.A. males. Based on the principles that shopping should be simple and accessible, Douglas Fir is home to a helpful staff and exquisite clothes by Martin Margiela, Paul Smith and Comme des Garcons.
 
Pyrrah
8315 W. 3rd St.
http://www.pyrrha.com/

For one-of-a-kind jewelry, look no further than Pyrrah. Designers Wade Papin and Danielle Wilmore hand-make each pendant, adorned with a 19th-century wax seal design. Not only are the pieces stunning and unique, but they each also come with a cool piece of history behind it. The necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings are available in sterling silver, bronze and 14-carat gold.
 
EM & Co.
7940 W. 3rd St.
http://www.emandco.com/

This gallery-like space is home to a mix of fashions from big-time names like Vivienne Westwood and Stella McCartney, as well as emerging local talent. EM & Co. aims to make your shopping experience the best possible, offering personal shopping, private appointments and free alterations. The space also houses monthly art exhibits, so get a dose of culture while you spend.