Los angeles vintage scene: from haute couture to rock 'n' roll
Los Angeles emerges as a global hub for vintage fashion, offering a treasure trove of unique pieces from iconic designers and eras. Vogue’s curated guide spotlights the city's best vintage stores, a testament to a burgeoning market fueled by both seasoned collectors and a new generation seeking sustainable style.
A curated collection for every style
From high-end couture to rockabilly glam, Los Angeles boasts a diverse selection of vintage boutiques. Vogue's directory caters to every taste, whether you're hunting for a specific designer piece or simply seeking a conversation piece.
Aralda Vintage, helmed by former model Brynn Jones, showcases pieces that graced 1990s runways and appeared in legendary fashion shoots with Ellen von Unwerth. Jones’s collection features coveted items by designers like Mugler, Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada, frequently sported by celebrities such as Kendall Jenner and Zendaya. Located at 2691 Beachwood Drive.
Saturn Bridal, a venture from Transplant Vintage founder Laura Laubach, specializes in vintage gowns for weddings. Expect a range of styles, from classic Vera Wang to unique, vintage finds perfect for a memorable ceremony. The shop at 1933 Echo Park Avenue offers a spectrum of ensembles, from mini-dresses to full gowns.
Arcade Vintage, born from the collective behind the A Current Affair market, offers a constantly rotating selection of vintage wares sourced from across the country. You'll find everything from Palm Springs-inspired caftans to 1940s handbags, with a robust online presence complementing their physical location at 777 South Alameda Street, Suite 174.
For the discerning bride, Happy Isles provides an intimate, appointment-only experience. Founder Lily Kaizer curates a collection of vintage gowns from designers such as Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, and Christian Dior. Beyond white dresses, the store also features bold and vibrant attire for any special occasion, located at 6150 Wilshire Boulevard, #8.
The Kit, founded by former fashion editor Robyn Goldberg, focuses on special-occasion dressing with a keen eye for craftsmanship. The store features rare pieces by Christian Lacroix, Ossie Clark, and Mugler, alongside a significant selection of bridal gowns at 7427 Beverly Boulevard.
Lily et Cie, a favorite among celebrities like Margot Robbie and Olivia Rodrigo, presents red-carpet-worthy dresses from designers like Jean-Louis Scherrer and Yves Saint Laurent. Founder Rita Watnick, with a background at Van Cleef & Arpels and Valentino, curates a collection that feels more like a museum exhibition than a retail space, located at 9044 Burton Way.
The Paper Bag Princess, the brainchild of Elizabeth Mason, has become a go-to source for couture for figures like Victoria Beckham and Lana Del Rey. Her appointment-only shop offers a curated selection of 20th- and 21st-century designer clothing, and Mason is also a published author on vintage and thrifting, a testament to her deep knowledge of the subject. Located at 8050 Melrose Avenue.
The Way We Wore, established in San Francisco in 1981 and later reopened in Hollywood, offers a mix of luxury vintage pieces, including Halston gowns and flapper dresses, alongside more accessible designer finds under $99. The shop at 334 South La Brea Avenue is a treasure trove for those seeking both high-end and budget-friendly vintage.
Timeless Vixen, owned by Lauren Lepire, specializes in sourcing rare items like Bob Mackie gowns (worn by Cher) and pieces from Courrèges and Pierre Cardin. The store is described as a