By: Marielle J. Stober
Living in California comes with its share of ups and downs. Yet, more often than not, we experience the lower points on a day-to-day basis. From congested highways that bear a striking resemblance to clotted arteries to paying top dollar for a brunch for two — complete with a $10 latté — Californians feel the pain of the economy better than anyone. But, just because your bank account is in a rut that does not mean that you have to look like a beggar. Here are shops within Los Angeles where you can snag the latest fashion finds without giving an arm and leg up as collateral.
Wasteland (Studio City): From old school Prada fur to retro chic cutout dresses, this haute hotspot has everything to satisfy your new wardrobe needs. Sales section steals are what Wasteland is known for, but be sure to browse the new arrivals. Check out the bi-monthly sales for bottom dollar prices, but get there early to beat the crowds. Parking is on the street or in a private lot.
Address: 12144 Ventura Blvd. Studio City, CA; (818) 980-8800
Hours: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday to Saturday, 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday
Buffalo Exchange (Sherman Oaks): Ditch those tired cloths and trade up for something truly unique. Catering to both men and women, this San Fernando Valley darling gives the feel of a boutique but operates under bartering principles. Whether you choose to trade for items off the rack or hard cash, everyone is a winner at Buffalo. Parking is confined to the streets, but the savings are worth the headache.
Address: 14621 Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks, CA; (818) 783-3420
Hours: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday to Saturday
American Vintage (Sherman Oaks): Macklemore must have been thinking of American Vintage when he penned the infamous “Thrift Shop.” Cowboy boots, grandpa cardigans made of wool, fur coats of every kind and a massive collection of jeans and dresses make this Americana a diamond in a field of coal. So go on, pop some tags but be sure to feed the meter because parking is street and street only.
Address: 14438 Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks, CA; (818) 788-4854
Hours: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday to Saturday, Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Lucky You Resale Boutique (North Hollywood): Adored by celebrity and college students alike, Lucky You is the Cadillac of consignment-vintage stores. Dropping names like Hudson, Chloé, rag & bone and Jeffrey Campbell for Salvation Army prices, it’s impossible not to swing by. Student and senior discounts sweeten the pot, as well as the online sale vouchers. Parking is on the street or in the private lot.
Parking: 12441 Magnolia Blvd. Valley Village, CA; (818) 985-1115
Hours: noon – 7 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday; noon – 8 p.m. Wednesday; noon – 5 p.m. Saturday; noon – 4 p.m. Sunday
It’s A Wrap Production Wardrobe Sales (Burbank): For all who have ever wondered what happens to the clothing celebrities wear on film after the director calls “Cut,” it’s all shipped off to the thrift shop. It’s A Wrap offers a wide array of closet staple pieces alongside the more peculiar costumes. Watch your favorite TV show while wearing the leads’ three-piece suit, or reenact a scene from Breaking Bad wearing Walter White’s tighty whities. Street parking only so be sure to stuff your coin purse with quarters.
Address: 3315 W Magnolia Blvd. Burbank, CA; (818) 567-7366
Hours: Monday to Friday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday. 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Black Market (Los Angeles): Forgot to buy another birthday gift? Maybe your favorite Ray-Ban sunglasses broke on the way to a hot date. Whatever your problem, Black Market has the cure. Boasting a menagerie of brand name products such as Vivienne Westwood, True Religion, Obey and J Brand, this petite shop is just what your wallet needs. But fair warning, be prepared to fight for parking because it’s street only.
Address: 2023 Sawtelle Blvd. Los Angeles, CA; (310) 966-1555
Hours: Monday to Sunday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Squaresville (Los Angeles): Don’t let the humble outdoor appearance or strange name fool you; Squaresville is anything but mundane. Geek chic, this two-floor walk-up is stuffed to the brim with vintage and brand name fashion finds. From punk rock to old Hollywood glam, Squaresville has it and for better than bargain prices. Just keep in mind that stock moves quickly here, so it is wise to buy in the moment. Otherwise, you might miss out. Parking is on the street so bring change and lots of it.
Address: 1800 N Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA; (323) 669-8464
Hours: Monday noon – 7 p.m., Tuesday & Wednesday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Thursday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday noon – 8 p.m.
Runway (Los Angeles): If you are a ravenous fashionista working with a tight budget, do not be discouraged: Runway is here to help. Located in the heart of LA, this trendy boutique serves up top shelf names with thrift shop tags. Whether your vice is in-season Chloé ready-to-wear or vintage frocks from obscure origin, Runway has the hook up. Check their online site for sales and new arrival steals too. Parking is streets only.
Address: 807 S La Brea Ave. Los Angeles, CA; (323) 965-1877
Hours: Tuesday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Wednesday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – noon
