A Designer’s Shopping Guide to L.A.

Marissa

Marissa

Hello Blush.com readers, my name is Marissa McMillon – and I’m very excited to be blogging for the day about one of my favorite things: LA SHOPPING!

I moved to Los Angeles about 3 years ago from Georgia with 1 cat and 3 suitcases to pursue my dreams in the big city.  A year later, I became the designer for the clothing line Public Library. Public Library is mainly inspired by a love of California culture mixed with my southern girl roots. I’m drawn to nostalgic imagery, buttery/soft fabrics, and hip/comfortable silhouettes; perfect for the nomadic girl with a sense of style.

With that said, some of my favorite spots to shop in LA range from boutiques and vintage shops to high-end retailers. Some of the places I can’t live without include:

Aero and CoAERO & CO.

Most things I love in life are out of my budget, but at Aero & Co. there is always something to love and buy. This store offers a great selection of LA Designers, Vintage Clothing, jewelry, knick knacks (i.e. OWLS…LOVE) and an always unique sale rack.  For the holidays they’ve created some grab bags that make perfect gifts and are under $10.  There aren’t many stores that feature local designers and I love supporting up-and-coming lines.  If you get hungry while shopping, stop by Joan’s on Third for a quick bite.

Rachel Comey shoe

Rachel Comey shoe

MOHAWK GENERAL STORE

This lovely boutique in Echo Park feels as if you’re walking into someone’s home full of wonderful treasures.  I peeked into every corner of this store and you can appreciate how everything here is picked for its uniqueness and style.  They have such amazing wears, vintage books/records, some unique antique lamps, and wonderful jewelry lines.  The shoe selection features designers like Rachel Comey, Twelfth St. By Cynthia Vincent, and F-Troupe.  You’ll for sure find something for yourself and they have men’s clothing too.

Greeting card at New High Mart

Greeting card at New High Mart

NEW HIGH MART

Ok, so this store is one of my secrets and it’s just re-opened over on Vermont Avenue.  This is one of the more unique shopping excursions in LA. I always feel like I’m buying one-of-a-kind pieces, but without the high price tag. Seriously, I don’t see their selections or lines at any other stores.  In the back are Japanese gift items like croc keychains, hot pink tape dispensers, and loose studs for DIY.  Original stocking stuffers!

H LorenzoH. LORENZO

With H&M and Sunset Plaza shops to check out nearby, this store is a fun visit.  They have a more high-end selection of designers and feature Men’s, Women’s and Shoe boutiques.  They also just happen to have a great selection of Public Library downstairs, so check it out next time you’re there.  You might spend a little more here, but I always like perusing the new designers and they have a good jean selection.

Book at H + IHENNESSEY & INGALLS

This is a bookstore for the more visually inclined and it’s located in the Space 15 Twenty shops.  I spend hours in Hennessey checking out the new fashion books, botanical encyclopedias and all things in between.  I like the vibe inside…staff is super helpful and knowledgeable about all the reads and I always stumble on something new and inspiring here.

WastelandWASTELAND

This resale boutique features new and used clothing and has great designers and good vintage too.  It’s all about timing for finding the gems here.  The buyers do a great job at having the trends and be sure to check out the designer, unused shoes here. Locations on Santa Monica Blvd, Melrose Ave and in Burbank.

Planet BluePLANET BLUE

This is the ultimate store for Public Library, but it’s not yet sold here (boo-hoo).  Hopefully someday!  I’m here at least once a month and they’ve got the beach vibe down.  You’ll feel stylishly earthy with anything you find here.

My list of favorite stores is an ever-rotating one, including the stops I frequent most.  I hope there are some you haven’t checked out before and be sure to visit PublicLibraryLA.com to see more of the line or join our new Facebook page.

xxoo, Marissa

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One Response to “A Designer’s Shopping Guide to L.A.”

  1. Josefina Berrospe says:

    Hope you had a great time this winter holidays!

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