Lost in Los Angeles: A Shopper’s Guide to the City of Angels
As the beating heart of Hollywood, Los Angeles is the shining star of the West Coast, teeming with culture and community amidst its cityscapes and sandy beaches. Populated by people from all walks of life, it’s no surprise that the city also boasts a vibrant fashion culture. Whether you’re hunting for quality basics, high-end luxury designs, or unique vintage finds, LA is lush with style, especially along world-famous streets like Rodeo Drive and Melrose Avenue.
That said, this guide isn’t meant to be exhaustive, because let’s be real—there are always new spots popping up around every corner. But we’ve compiled a list of our favorites, taking you all over the City of Angels to score the hottest fashion finds, no matter your style or budget.
Los Angeles Apparel
📍812 E 59th St, Los Angeles, CA 90001
GREAT FOR: womenswear - menswear - basics
Remember American Apparel? As the name suggests, Los Angeles Apparel is an LA-based brand founded by American Apparel’s former CEO, specializing in high-quality basics. From tops and bottoms to intimates and accessories, their factory store features an endless supply of clothing essentials, along with discounted overstock and damaged pieces (which are also sold on their Depop). With a focus on sustainability, every item is made from organic materials and tagged with fabric labels printed with an image of the worker behind it.
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2. St. George
📍1511 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90403
GREAT FOR: womenswear - basics
An offshoot of the main Brandy Melville line, St. George targets a slightly “older” demographic by showcasing neutral cotton basics in more modest and mature styles. In addition to clothing—which is available in multiple sizes—the store also sells home essentials like towels, pillows, and blankets. Currently, the St. George brand is only available for purchase in-store, so if you find yourself in Santa Monica looking to go back to the “basics,” this is the place to go.
3. Lisa Says Gah
📍2147 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
GREAT FOR: womenswear - eclectic fashion
Already have the basics and looking for a pop of color to add to your wardrobe? Lisa Says Gah is an “anti-fast fashion, pro-community” brand founded and located exclusively in California. Their collections are a playful blend of trendy yet funky aesthetics, featuring bold hues and fun designs perfect for lovers of eclectic style.
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4. Brain Dead
📍611 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
GREAT FOR: unisex - streetwear - movie theatre - in-store cafe
If you’re ever in the mood for a movie night, a shopping spree, and/or a quick snack, worry not—Brain Dead is the place to be. An experimental “meeting place of contemporary subcultures,” the creative collective combines the pleasures of film, retail, and food all in one place. Upon entering, you’ll find yourself in the theatre lobby, complete with a snack bar for all your movie-watching needs. Craving a cup of coffee and a bite to eat? Head to the back of the store for their outdoor patio cafe. Interested in browsing their inventory? The second floor houses their showroom, a hip and colorful space brimming with streetwear, accessories, vinyl, and other collectibles.
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5. Cherry Los Angeles
📍8475 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069
GREAT FOR: unisex - streetwear
Modern streetwear meets vintage Americana at Cherry Los Angeles—another LA-based label that you may have seen your favorite celebrities wearing. Graphic tees, comfy loungewear, and crisp workwear are just a few of what Cherry LA has to offer, all featuring retro-style designs reflected in the mid-century modern decor of their Melrose storefront.
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6. Golf Wang
📍350 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
GREAT FOR: unisex - streetwear
Whether you’re a Tyler, the Creator fan or not, you’ve likely heard of his Golf Wang clothing line—or at least his iconic Golf Le Fleur Converse. The rapper’s jazzy, alternative, and experimental style of music influences the aesthetic of his label, which is a love letter to West Coast skate culture, depicted through vibrant hues and unique graphics. If you’re a casual listener, a devoted follower, or somewhere in between, the LA flagship is worth the visit for its youthful California vibe alone.
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7. Detoure
📍7555 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
GREAT FOR: womenswear - secondhand
True to its name, Detoure offers a unique take on secondhand shopping. By sourcing clothes from your favorite influencers’ closets (as well as overstock), the LA-only resale marketplace is packed with quality pieces from well-loved brands for as low as $5—especially a steal for those in the market for trendy items that won’t break the bank.
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8. Public Estrellas
📍2701 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90031
GREAT FOR: womenswear - menswear - secondhand - vintage
A Los Angeles favorite, Public Estrellas is one of the few thrift stores that has stayed affordable over the years. Items are priced from $1.50 to $12, with $2 bins and frequent discounts making it a must-visit spot. As with any thrifting spree, be prepared to take your time. The clean, organized warehouse boasts a variety of options for different styles and occasions.
9. Wasteland
📍7428 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
GREAT FOR: womenswear - menswear - secondhand - vintage
You can’t visit LA without checking out Wasteland. Since 1985, Wasteland has stood the test of time as a treasure trove of well-curated vintage, luxury, and contemporary finds. From clothing to footwear to accessories, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
10. American Rag Cie
📍150 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
GREAT FOR: womenswear - menswear - home goods - secondhand - vintage
Another Los Angeles classic, American Rag Cie is a secondhand haven for all of your life’s needs. In addition to online retailing, they offer a beautifully curated selection of quality vintage at their brick-and-mortar location, as well as Mediterranean-style home goods at their sister brand, Maison Midi. For those seeking a more affordable option, American Rag also hosts a $6-per-pound vintage sale every month!
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*SOME AFFILIATE LINKS ARE USED IN THIS POST, WHICH MEANS WE MAY EARN A COMMISSION ON ITEMS PURCHASED*