L.a.'s vintage scene: where hollywood glamour meets resale gold
Forget the Rodeo Drive clichés. The true style heart of Los Angeles beats in its burgeoning vintage scene, a landscape teeming with curated collections and hidden gems. Vogue has just dropped a definitive guide to the city’s best spots, and it’s a roadmap for anyone seeking authentic, head-turning pieces—whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time thrifter.
The rise of the celebrity-approved find
The allure is undeniable: the possibility of unearthing a garment once worn by a Hollywood icon. While such discoveries aren't guaranteed, the odds are certainly higher in L.A. than anywhere else. Recent sightings of Kendall Jenner, Zendaya, and Ariana Grande sporting vintage Mugler, Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada prove that the resale market isn’t just a trend; it’s a strategic move for the Fashion elite.
Aralda Vintage, nestled in Los Feliz, is a prime example. Founded by a former model, Brynn Jones’s shop is a portal to the '90s catwalk and the playfully provocative world of Ellen von Unwerth, offering a selection that practically whispers of Naomi Campbell’s influence. But it’s not all retro nostalgia; the store consistently attracts high-end designer finds, keeping it perpetually relevant.
Beyond the red carpet: a spectrum of styles
The guide doesn’t stop at red-carpet glamour. Saturn Bridal, Laura Laubach’s Echo Park haven, caters specifically to those seeking vintage wedding attire—from classic white gowns to unexpected shades and even that elusive Vera Wang dress from your childhood dreams. For those seeking a more eclectic hunt, Arcade Vintage, a brick-and-mortar extension of the popular A Current Affair market, presents a rotating selection sourced from across the country, offering everything from Palm Springs caftans to avant-garde '40s handbags.
Lily Kaizer's Happy Isles, an appointment-only salon on Wilshire Boulevard, specializes in bespoke vintage ensembles for special occasions. Think racks overflowing with Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, and Christian Dior—but with a surprising array of bold and bright gowns for those who dare to defy tradition. The Kit, founded by former Fashion editor Robyn Goldberg, showcases exceptional craftsmanship, with rare Christian Lacroix pieces and Ossie Clark minidresses alongside a curated selection of bridal gowns.
Lily et Cie, a Beverly Hills institution, is a favorite among stars like Margot Robbie and Olivia Rodrigo (who recently celebrated her 21st birthday in an Alaïa masterpiece from the shop). Founder Rita Watnick displays her designer dresses with the reverence of a museum curator, making window-shopping an experience in itself.
The legacy of the pioneers and the modern curator
The Paper Bag Princess, Elizabeth Mason, is a go-to for A-listers like Victoria Beckham and Lana Del Rey, known for her private appointments and carefully curated selection of 20th and 21st-century designer pieces. The Way We Wore, Doris Raymond’s Hollywood mainstay, initially established in San Francisco, has a storied history, having supplied costumes for films like Evita and Titanic, and boasts both luxury finds and a budget-friendly under-$99 section.
Timeless Vixen, Lauren Lepire’s shop, is legendary for sourcing rare Bob Mackie gowns (Cher’s signature style) and other coveted pieces. And finally, Pechuga Vintage, helmed by Johnny Valencia, goes to extraordinary lengths to secure unique finds, from Versace bodysuits to Chanel’s iconic Hula-Hoop bag. Cannonball and Tilly, run by Laura Kranitz for over three decades, blends rockabilly glam with '90s maximalism, a favorite of Vogue’s own Emma Specter.
Alexis Novak’s Tab Vintage, known for her early-morning estate sale expeditions, offers a treasure trove of rare pieces from Givenchy and Marc Jacobs-era Louis Vuitton. The city's vintage landscape is a testament to the enduring power of style, proving that the past is always present—and often, precisely what’s missing from your wardrobe.