Is it just me,Reader, or do you think it is going to be really hot in L.A. This summer?
At long last, I am bringing you an issue about Thifting in Los Angeles. I didn’t have to step too far out of my neighborhood to find 5 spots—some of which are within walking distance of each other — that combine secondhand, vintage, and charity shops.
But first……
My mission is to bring together a community of Los Angeles explorers who want to get to know their city and support diverse and unique small businesses and organizations in L.A.
What’s been going on in the paid community
I took three members of the I Want To Get Out and Do Stuff tier to the 40th Anniversary Party of Grand Performances. We listened to Healing Gems—a new-to-me band—and one of my favorite local bands, Jungle Fire. Grand Performance encapsulates all that I love about L.A.-A free concert on historic Bunker Hill with people of all ages and backgrounds dancing like no one’s watching.
Not sure what to do this summer? I got you. Become a paid subscriber.
Reading L.A. Book Club
It’s not too late to join the Reading L.A. Book Club! Our first book is a collection of essays, making it easy to finish an essay or two before we meet. The meet-up is on Sunday, the 28th.
Quick Facts
- We will have about a month and a half to read each book
- We will go on a field trip related to the book—a little discussion exploration combo
- You will meet other Angelenos who want to get to know this city better
I’m giving away two gift cards to Reading LA members—the 1st winner will receive $75 to spend at The Last Book Store, and the 2nd winner will receive $50 to spend at Bookshop.org
 |
$50.00 / year
I want to get out and do stuff
This is for those of you who are craving community and want to get out and explore the city you call home. You will... Read more |
 |
$28.50 / year
I'm a fan
This tier is for those who want to see This Ugly Beautiful City grow, and you believe in the mission to support small... Read more |
Question: Why is this paid?
Answer: It helps my business because I handle all the planning for these events.
If you want to join the book club, please become a member at either of the tiers above and reply to this email newsletter with the words BOOK CLUB, and I will send you the invitation to our first meeting and more information.
Thrifting in L.A.
With the launch of the book club and planning so many trips for others around the world, it was hard to find time to research where to thrift in this city. Should I trek up to Magnolia? Is Los Feliz still the vintage destination it used to be? I had wanted to find out. Then it dawned on me just how amazing my own backyard is for thrifting. My weekly walks bring me to three second-hand and consignment shops. The visit to the Sunday Mar Vista Farmers Market adds two more shops to this list.
If you think the only place to get great vintage is on Magnolia in Burbank, you should give Venice Blvd between National and Centinela a try.
Going from east to west
The first three picks are technically within walking distance of each other, but this depends on your willpower and how much you can carry. Note: I list genders for clothing, but shop whichever section you identify with.
Part of downtown Culver City for decades, this thrift shop has a bit of everything from musical instruments to complete living room sets. My favorite place is the Gold Room, where you can find vintage and luxury clothing brands. This is also a great Halloween destination. Proceeds go towards local charities. (Women, men, & kids)
This women- and immigrant-owned consignment shop is new to the scene. This is where I would go if I wanted to look fancy for less. It is a perfect destination for wedding guest dresses or stand-out from the crowd workwear. (Women)
This place is packed to the brim with all kinds of treasures from used books to vintage finds. I usually find one thing I can’t live without when I go. One of the MVPs of my trip to Italy was purchased here during a 50% off sale. (Women, men, & kids)
You should feel good about shopping here because of how the store gives back.
The mission: Ensure economic justice and equity for women in Los Angeles through direct cash assistance, skill-building, and advocating for policies that safeguard women’s financial stability and prosperity.
Down the road
I am sure you have all heard of Crossroads or been to one if you love gently used clothing. I love that it is color coordinated as well as organized by size. My favorite is that they don’t quite know what they have, and you can find designer stuff for less than $40. This Crossroads location is huge! (Women and men)
This is my favorite place for random finds—70s caftans, velvet coats that belong at Vampire Balls, that mid-century modern hutch you've been pinning over and over again. (Women and men)
Visit them on Saturday during The Venice Fest
I hope you enjoy your thifting adventure
