Between Robertson Blvd. & La Brea Ave., Hollywood
You won’t find anything ordinary about this eclectic shopping strip. The unique and imaginative storefronts are just the beginning of a remarkable shopping adventure you are bound to embark on when you shop on Melrose.
Start with some creative designs from Betsey Johnson or move onto more traditional wear at the celebrity frequented Fred Segal. Galaxy Gallery is the place to go not only for hookahs and other smoking items, but also to experience the occasional live art, jazz and other music shows. Bring your laptop and chill with the free wireless in the Internet café.
THIRD STREET
Between Fairfax Ave. & La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles
Although it is highly known for its incredible restaurants, Third Street is also home to some of the most unique and creative designers in Los Angeles. Among the must-see shops is the infamous Paul Frank Store for the cute and recognizable monkey, Polkadots and Moonbeams Vintage for funky fun wear, and Trina Turk for the beach-chic clubhouse girl.
When it does come to the food, Third Street is sure to please everyone at your table. From the huge sandwiches at Joan’s On Third, to the breakfast at Toast, where you can bump elbows with celebs, to the amazing homemade desserts at Doughboys. Or stop by Sushi Roku if you have a deep wallet and crave the salty stuff.
ROBERTSON BOULEVARD
Between Burton Way & Beverly Blvd., Beverly Hills
A shopping trip on Robertson must begin with a visit to Kitson, arguably the trendiest shop in L.A., where you can find anything from shoes and jeans to makeup and perfume. Kitson also has an impressive collection of unique books, pillows and accessories, perfect for gift giving.
If you’re more into ultra chic shopping boutiques, there is no shortage of them here. Stop by Lisa Kline for t-shirts that will cost you three figures, or indulge your feminine side at Curve with their incredibly decadent dress collection. Clothing is not the only type of boutique you will find on Robertson. The top of the line home décor shops are amazing.
THE GROVE
189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles
www.thegrovela.com
Since most days in L.A. are sunny, the open-air Grove is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll. The beautifully paved roads, abundant greenery and San Francisco-style cable car make you feel like you have stepped out of the hustle of L.A. and into a blissfully clean shopping mini-town. Mixed in with the run-of-the-mill stores like The Gap and Nordstrom you’ll find upscale shops like Arden B. and Coach.
Enjoy a movie in the vintage style 14-screen Pacific Theater complex and a sandwich at the Farmer’s Market. In the winter the Grove is transformed into a wonderland where you can pick up fresh roasted chestnuts as you watch the huge Christmas tree lighting every evening.
HOLLYWOOD AND HIGHLAND
6800 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood
www.hollywoodandhighland.com
This Hollywood Mecca is filled with people craving the L.A. experience. Walk on your favorite stars as you shop for your favorite people. Along with the standard Express and Gap, you can find more Hollywood souvenir shops than you could ever possibly visit.
Stop by the famous Mann’s Chinese Theater to take in a flick and pick up a bacon-wrapped hot dog from a street vendor, if your stomach can handle it. The Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum is sure to entertain while you shop for uniquely Hollywood gear.
OLD TOWN PASADENA
Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena
www.oldpasadena.com
Shopping in Old Town Pasadena is like taking a vacation. The streets are clean and the restaurants are friendly. You can find gifts for all the girls at the huge MAC Pro store, and then pick up a sinful truffle at the Aux Delices chocolate shop.
For lunch or dinner, Bar Celona is an excellent choice. Order up some tapas (Spanish appetizers) to share and keep the pitchers of sangria coming. Not to be outdone by the food, unique and frilly boutiques pepper the street and are as much fun to look through as the food is to taste. If you plan on cooking yourself, stop by Sur La Table for everything from cool cookware to culinary classes for the chef.
RODEO DRIVE
Beverly Hills
www.losfelizvillageonline.com
A rapidly up-and-coming shopping district with an array of various shops to choose from is what you will find in cozy Los Feliz. For classic denim like Levi and Miss Sixty, stop by UNA Mae’s, which also contains an assortment of vintage items and shoes. Oou boasts the more girly treasures, like Moroccan and Indian imports and glittery makeup.
If you long for something a little less traditional visit Mondo Video A-Go-Go. Here you will find all those obscure films you can’t find anywhere else. Many patrons simply go to enjoy the fun and crazy carnival atmosphere and the strange mix of people.
LOS ANGELES FASHION DISTRICT
www.fashiondistrict.org
The L.A. Fashion district is a bargain hunter’s paradise. With over 1,000 stores that sell to the general public at severely discounted rates, you can’t go wrong spending a day here. This 90-block span is bustling with retailers, wholesale buyers, designers, stylists students, shoppers and residents creating a festival-like atmosphere.
Retail stores in the district are independent, not brand names, however you will find brand names at huge discounts in many of the stores. Aside from traditional clothing shops you can find flowers, textiles, notions, beading, and trim. It is a truly unique L.A. experience not to be missed!
LARCHMONT VILLAGE
www.larchmontchronicle.com
Nestled in Hancock Park, the beautiful Larchmont Village offers shopping like no other. If you are looking for anything sparkling, embellished or antique, you will find it at Larchmont.
For eclectic barware, perfect for gifts, be sure to go to Village Heights. Melissa Levinson Antiques offers lovely adornments for the home such as pillows, candles and antiques. For the girly girls stop by Nicole for feminine jewelry and beaded purses. Or opt for sexy lingerie and plush robes at Pickett Fences. Pick up some designer eyewear by Chanel and Cartier at Hans Custom Optik. With such remarkable selections of shopping in Larchmont your afternoon will be filled.
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