5 Vintage Boutiques in Los Angeles You Must Visit
A Brief History of Vintage Boutiques in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has always been a trendsetting city, not just in film but in fashion as well. The city’s vintage boutiques have played a significant role in shaping its unique style. From the early days of Hollywood glamour to the eclectic styles of the present, these stores preserve fashion history while offering contemporary appeal.
Here are the 5 boutiques listed without a specific ranking
NO.1 QUIRK
Established: 2016
Location: Downtown Los Angeles, Online Presence
Website: www.quirkla.com
At QUIRK, every piece tells a story. Founded by Melynda Choothesa, a seasoned fashion stylist and creative director, QUIRK specializes in both vintage and modern high-end fashion. Melynda’s 15 years of experience in fashion consulting, costume design, and art direction shine through in her meticulously curated collection. From timeless bags to classic shirts, each item is thoughtfully selected to offer diverse, stylish, and unique fashion finds.
Unique Selling Points:
- Expert Curation: Each piece is handpicked by Melynda Choothesa, ensuring top-notch quality and style vintage.
- Styling Guide: Styling tips directly from an expert fashion stylist.
- Online Presence: Shop from the comfort of your home without compromising on quality or style.
2. THE WAY WE WORE
Established: 2004
Location: Los Angeles
Website: www.thewaywewore.com
Owned by Doris Raymond, The Way We Wore is a vintage fashion haven and the star of the TV show “LA Frock Stars.” The boutique offers a premium selection of vintage clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Designers from major couture houses to popular labels flock here for inspiration, making it a staple in LA’s fashion scene.
Unique Selling Points:
- Television Fame: Featured on the Smithsonian Channel’s “LA Frock Stars.”
- Designer Appeal: An endless supply of inspiration pieces for designers from all fashion houses.
- Premium Selection: Offers high-quality vintage clothing with contemporary appeal.
3. WASTELAND
Established: 1985
Location: Berkeley, California (first store), Los Angeles
Website: https://www.shopwasteland.com/
Wasteland is a treasure trove of designer, contemporary, and vintage fashion. Founded by Joe Swinney and Cheryl Cohen, the boutique has been recognized by magazines like Vogue and Rolling Stone. Their collection is perfect for those who seek authenticity and self-expression in their style.
Unique Selling Points:
- Iconic Beginnings: Rooted in the days of death rock and mod subculture.
- Magazine Praise: Featured in Vogue, Rolling Stone, Details, Nylon, and Paper.
- Authenticity and Self-Expression: Offers a curated collection that inspires unique looks.
4. 2ND STREET
Established: 1996 (Japan), 2018 (USA)
Location: Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles
Website: https://2ndstreetusa.com/
Started in Japan with over 700 locations, 2nd STREET made its US debut on Melrose Avenue in 2018. This boutique offers a wide variety of styles, from streetwear to vintage to Japanese designer pieces. It’s the go-to spot for unique, second-hand items in premium condition.
Unique Selling Points:
- Wide Variety: Offers a huge selection of styles to suit every need.
- Japanese Influence: Features exclusive Japanese designer and luxury accessories.
- Expanding Presence: Rapidly growing in the US with stores in multiple states.
5. RECESS
Established: 2013
Location: Los Angeles
Website: https://recessla.com/
Recess, founded by Marie Monsod, is known for its curated assortment of fun vintage and contemporary clothing. The boutique expanded in 2021 to include home decor, making it a one-stop-shop for unique finds. Recess caters to designers, stylists, and costume enthusiasts, drawing visitors from across the US and around the world.
Unique Selling Points:
- Eclectic Style: Offers a mix of haute couture, non-designer, and global finds.
- Affordable Luxury: Bridges the gap between couture gowns and rock t-shirts.
- Design Inspiration: A resource for designers and fashion insiders looking for unique inspiration.
Insider Tips for Navigating Vintage Shopping in LA
- Visit Early: The best pieces usually go quickly, so aim to visit boutiques early in the day.
- Check for Sales: Many boutiques offer sales or discounts during certain times of the year.
- Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask store staff for assistance; they often have insider knowledge about new arrivals and hidden gems.
- Be Open-Minded: Vintage shopping is all about discovery. Keep an open mind and be ready to try on different styles.
Explore the Diversity of Vintage Fashion in LA
Los Angeles offers a rich tapestry of vintage fashion, with each boutique providing a unique experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these shops are worth exploring. Share your favorite vintage boutiques and experiences in the comments below!
Ready to elevate your vintage fashion game? Visit these top boutiques and discover the timeless allure of vintage style.
Visit our boutique to find our curated vintage selection
Quirk BOUTIQUE, is located at 112 West 9th St. #200 Los Angeles, CA 90015
Melynda Choothesa, CEO
Senior Fashion Stylist, Costume Designer, Fashion Designer, Art Director
With over 15 years of expertise in still photography, commercial fashion styling, and costume design for motion pictures and television, Melynda stands out as a seasoned, award-winning costume designer and fashion stylist. Her portfolio boasts collaborations with industry luminaries such as Akon, Bad Bunny, Elijah Wood, and more. Melynda's renowned vintage showroom and the "Quirk" ready-to-wear line are a testament to her inspiration drawn from global travels and original artwork. In addition to her successful professional journey, she also delves into theatre and commercial acting, having contributed to notable projects for Apple, Pepsi, and Universal Pictures.
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