Mohawk General Store
Pasadena
The Eastside favorite has expanded beyond its two Silver Lake boutiques with a tidy outpost in Pasadena. We swoon over the Comme des Garçons men’s leather pouches, sack-style dresses by L.A.’s Black Crane, and primitive bronze bowls by Joshua Tree sculptor Alma Allen. The minimalist garments, jewelry, Danish furniture, and housewares compiled by husband and wife Kevin and Bo Carney are the stuff of Scandinavian modern dreams—or fashionable sci-fi flicks. One Colorado, 26 Smith Alley.
Gregory’s
West Hollywood
Celebrity stylistS come to score crystal-covered fringe booties for Lady Gaga or red leather platforms for Kelly Clarkson. While Gregory’s is known for its designershoe inventory (Prada, Alexander McQueen) and limited-edition collections (Gianmarco Lorenzi), it’s been ramping up its ready-to-wear men’s and women’s lines: Thomas Wylde, Issa, Temperley, and newcomer JC De Castelbajac. 147 N. Robertson Blvd., 310-288-0275.
Trina Turk
Beverly Grove
“Pasadena” has a wooden platform. “Beverly,” a bejeweled thong. And “Palm Springs”? A heel made of Lucite, of course. When ready-to-wear designer Trina Turk named the 12 styles of her first footwear
line, she looked to her favorite towns in California. After all, she’s a native. “I’m evoking the attitude and feel of these cities,” says Turk. “The brand is inspired by and represents the modern California lifestyle: optimistic, progressive, and effortless.” 8008 W. 3rd St.
Beckley
West Hollywood
Along with her own line, Beckley by Melissa, Melissa Akkaway carries brands that are about to hit—such as Australia’s buzzy Camilla and Marc—and off-the-runway, ready-to-wear pieces from the likes of Rick Owens. Eddie Borgo and Maya Brenner jewelry, tights from House of Holland, and a small selection of footwear make this a one-stop shop for a special-occasion outfit. 8128 W. 3rd St., 310-652-3500.
Elyse Walker
Pacific Palisades
The retail pioneer opened her shop in 1999 so that locals would have an alternative to schlepping to Beverly Hills. Walker excels at staying abreast of the latest designer crushes to suit a wardrobe that spans business meetings and ballroom galas. The 6,000-square foot space is like Melrose Place, Robertson Boulevard, and Rodeo Drive rolled into one. 15306 Antioch St., 310-230-8882.
