(Fashion)

The Best Stores In Downtown LA

by Nicky Deam

The sprawling metropolis that is Los Angeles offers a wide variety of shopping destinations. There are the luxury brands on the bucolic Melrose Place, the quirky hipster offerings of Silver Lake and Echo Park, the flashy international fashion houses on Rodeo Drive and the bohemian beachside boutiques of Malibu and Venice. Downtown LA’s burgeoning scene provides another layer to the city’s sartorial onion, with a range of gallery-retail hybrids and vintage shops. We ventured to the up-and-coming neighborhood to seek out the best and brightest retail destinations. Here are three of our favorites.

Photographs by Andrew Stiles

Alchemy Works

Location: 826 E. 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90013

Founders: Lindsay and Raan Parton

Website: alchemyworks.us

Alchemy Works

What It Is: A gallery, retail and event space featuring thoughtful rotating in-store pop-ups and up-and-coming international designers.

Alchemy Works

Go Here For: One-of-a-kind home accents, beach-inspired ready-to-wear and an extensive Warby Parker shop.

Alchemy Works

Don't Leave Without: A piece from one of their limited-edition collaborations.

Virgo

Location: 216 E 9th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Founded By: Rana Shoar

Website: shop.virgodowntown.com

Virgo

What It Is: A super-affordable, quirky vintage gem amidst downtown's fabric stalls.

Virgo

Go Here For: Perfect vintage denim (they will tailor on-site), '90s printed dresses and overalls, platform sandals and unique add-ons.

Virgo

Don't Leave Without: A suede jacket.

Althouse

Location: 761 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Founded By: Jennifer Althouse

Website: shopalthouse.com

Althouse

What It Is: A lofty space with expertly curated, off-the-moment staples.

Althouse

Go Here For: Abstract prints, sleek accessories and sharply modern pieces with a minimalist bent.

Althouse

Don't Leave Without: A unique cocktail dress.