Ananda Boutique, Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Ananda
1356 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
310.399.4186
This little store taps into Abbot Kinney's hippie roots with what might be called “international funk.” Featuring odds and ends such as books on Buddhism and scented candles, Ananda puts forth an eclectic selection of goods. But the real highlight is the clothing, which, unlike other boutiques, is reasonably priced. Some lines hail from American designers, while others are culled from Indian and Asian fashions.
What to Get: If you’re in the market for gifts, pick one of the statues from Ananda’s collection. Miniature Buddhas are always popular.
Equator Books, Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Equator Books
1103 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
310.399.5544
www.equatorbooks.com
A visit to Abbot Kinney Boulevard isn’t complete without a stop at Equator Books. Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, it’s a rush for lit lovers to see first editions lining the shelves, most of them in collectible condition and wrapped with archival coverings. It’s a collector’s dream come true. Think rare books, art pieces and a decent collection of vinyl. Plus, it’s open late, so there’s always somewhere cool to go in between barhopping.
What to Get: Something from the out-of-print surfing collection, one of the most extensive in Los Angeles.
Urbanic Paper Boutique, Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Altered Space
1221 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
310.452.8121
www.alteredspacegallery.com
This hip gallery is what Abbot Kinney is all about. The staff has a nonchalant way of introducing its products — one-of-a-kind jewelry, edgy paintings, off-kilter sculptures — without coming across as snooty. In addition, many of LA’s hottest artists are represented here. Richard Patterson, Thomas Mann and Graceann Warn are just a few examples.
What to Get: Watchcraft’s timepieces, which are made with distressed and oxidized silver, brass and other metals.
Vert
1211 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
310.581.6126
www.vertlosangeles.com
Vert’s clean, minimalist design speaks to this beauty salon’s mission: 1) to educate people about promoting a healthy environment and 2) to make people look good while doing it. The boutique beauty depot carries completely natural products, all of which adhere to owner Renata Helfman’s strict standards. Plus, workshops and seminars, as well as a full makeup bar, provide nice add-ons for an already chic store.
What to Get: Pamper yourself with Red Flower shower gel. Trust us, it’s worth it.
Surfing Cowboys, Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Surfing Cowboys
1624 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
310.450.4891
www.surfingcowboys.com
It wouldn’t be Venice without some quirks, and Surfing Cowboys gladly obliges. A mix of furniture, surfboards, surfing tees, books and paintings make up the majority of the store, which was inspired by the free spirit of both the ocean and the open range (hence their name). It’s all about lifestyle here, and it’s never difficult to find something to add to an already decorated home: a Navajo rug here, a vintage long board there. After all, there’s nothing wrong with a little more LA in your life.
What to Get: Folk art home made 1960s skateboard. Its vintage cool will turn heads on the Venice Oceanfront Walk.
Ten Women Venice
1237 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
310.452.2256
www.tenwomengallery.com
With a name like Ten Women, you may not be sure what you’re shopping for at this Venice boutique. What you’ll find is 10,000 square feet of space devoted to local female artisans — who among other talents — paint, make jewelry and knit. You never know, the woman who created the exclusive artwork you buy may just ring up your purchase at the counter.
What to Get: Kristin DuCharme's "fuse glass" pieces, which include jewelry and decorative works that shine with a traditional yet fresh aesthetic.
