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.
