L.a.'s vintage scene: where hollywood glamour meets secondhand gold
Los Angeles. The name conjures images of red carpets, iconic movie stars, and a relentless pursuit of the next big trend. But beneath the glitz and glamour lies a thriving vintage scene, a carefully curated ecosystem of shops where discerning shoppers can unearth pieces touched by history—and, sometimes, worn by the very celebrities who define Hollywood.
Beyond rodeo drive: a hunter's paradise
Forget the predictable designer boutiques. For those seeking something truly special, a journey through L.A.’s vintage stores is essential. Vogue’s recent directory highlights a selection of these treasure troves, proving that sustainable style and high Fashion aren’t mutually exclusive—they’re increasingly intertwined. The allure isn’t just about affordability; it’s about owning a tangible piece of the past, a story whispered through fabric and embellishment, often with a direct connection to the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Brynn Jones’s Aralda Vintage in Los Feliz, for instance, feels less like a shop and more like stepping onto a 90s catwalk. The pieces, often plucked directly from Ellen von Unwerth shoots, have a history you can almost feel. Think Mugler, Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada—brands now ubiquitous on red carpets, but here boasting a provenance that spans decades and runways. A quick scan of recent sightings reveals Kendall Jenner and Zendaya sporting finds from Aralda, a testament to the shop's discerning eye.
Then there's Saturn Bridal, Laura Laubach's wedding-focused haven. It’s not just about finding ‘the dress’; it’s about discovering a vintage icon, a Vera Wang masterpiece from a cherished film, or simply celebrating a timeless aesthetic. The breadth of selection—from delicate minis to opulent gowns—is genuinely astounding.
But the landscape extends far beyond these well-known names. Arcade Vintage, born from the collective behind the popular A Current Affair market, offers a constantly rotating selection sourced from across the country. Expect Palm Springs caftans alongside vintage 40s handbags – a delightful clash of eras and styles. For those seeking a more personalized experience, Happy Isles, an appointment-only salon helmed by Lily Kaizer, specializes in bespoke vintage ensembles, boasting a stunning collection of Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, and Christian Dior.
The Kit, spearheaded by former Fashion editor Robyn Goldberg, focuses on special-occasion dressing, offering pieces rarely seen since their debut on the runway. Ossie Clark and Mugler minidresses share space with exquisite Christian Lacroix creations, a testament to Goldberg's commitment to showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.
Lily et Cie, a Beverly Hills favorite frequented by Margot Robbie and Olivia Rodrigo (who famously wore an Alaïa dress from the shop for her 21st birthday), elevates vintage dressing to an art form. Rita Watnick, the shop's founder, curates her selection with the precision of a museum curator, presenting each garment as a work of art.
And for those seeking couture with an edge, Elizabeth Mason, a.k.a. The Paper Bag Princess, has become a go-to source for Victoria Beckham, Kim Kardashian, and Lana Del Rey. Her black-and-white shop houses a trove of 20th- and 21st-century designer pieces, best experienced during a private appointment.
Doris Raymond’s The Way We Wore, initially established in San Francisco and later transplanted to Hollywood, has a storied history of its own, providing costumes for productions like Evita and Titanic. The shop caters to all budgets, with luxury pieces alongside a surprisingly accessible under-$99 section.
Finally, Lauren Lepire’s Timeless Vixen is a repository of rare finds, including Bob Mackie gowns once worn by Cher. The experience is akin to rummaging through a remarkably chic godmother’s closet, with Lepire providing captivating insights into each garment’s history and its place in Fashion lore. Recent sightings of her pieces on Kate Moss, Amal Clooney, and Kylie Jenner only underscore her impeccable taste.
The resurgence of vintage isn’t just a trend; it’s a conscious shift towards sustainability and individuality, a rebellion against fast Fashion, and a celebration of enduring style. In Los Angeles, it’s a thriving industry, a testament to the city’s enduring allure and its unique ability to blend past, present, and future.