From Kidrobot to the new Tokidoki store, the section of Melrose Avenue between Fairfax and Crescent Heights, anchored by Fred Segal, is quickly becoming the go-to spot for contemporary design and pop-culture junkies. Just a short walk from The Grove and The Original Farmers Market, the area offers one of the most unique shopping experiences in Los Angeles.
Known for its extensive collection of limited-edition art toys, Kidrobot also carries its own line of apparel and accessories. Collaborations with contemporary artists from around the world — and the acquisition of 13 pieces by the Museum of Modern Art in New York — clinch Kidrobot’s status as the place to see what’s happening in the art toy world.
7972 Melrose Avenue
An oval-shaped window in the front door of Tarina Tarantino is the perfect introduction to the wonders inside. With pink walls and shiny display cases, this girlie-girl mecca offers high-quality, colorful crystal jewelry and hair accessories. New collections feature Wizard of Oz, Alice in Wonderland, Hello Kitty and the patriotic images in Liberty Loves Company.
7957 Melrose Avenue
Italian artist Simone Legno grew up with a love for and fascination with all things Japanese and eventurally teamed up with entrepreneurs Ivan Arnold and Pooneh Mohajer, the creator of Hard Candy makeup, to create a worldwide pop-culture phenomenon. Lucky for us, they chose Melrose Heights as the perfect neighborhood for their first LA store, Tokidoki, which opened earlier this year. Inside, you’ll find intricately illustrated t-shirts, hoodies, purses, hats, jewelry, toys and more.7965 Melrose Avenue
The name sounds like a baked good; the décor looks like a bakery, but Johnny Cupcakes is actually cooking up some limited-edition t-shirts and accessories. Check the cases and wall of colorful "ovens" to learn how sweet it is to scoop up one of their t-shirt treats.
7959 Melrose Avenue
The owners of Fitzsu Society travel the globe to find the best in 21st-century functional design. The store is filled with kitchen accessories, contemporary clocks, modern barware, unique toys and whimsical Alessi home décor. Even pet owners can find chic food bowls for Fido and Fifi.
7970 Melrose Avenue
Across the street from the world-famous Fred Segal, Jonathan Adler’s store is filled with his signature pottery and decorative home accessories. This spring, Adler will be debuting his new Jonathan Adler Junior line for happy-chic kids’ rooms.
8125 Melrose Avenue
Shops:
Betsy Johnson
A Bathing Ape
Froma
Restaurants:
Karen and Quinn Hatfield’s Redux
Evan Kleiman’s Angeli Caffe
Govind Armstrong’s Table 8
Michael Cimarusti’s Providence
Julie Wolfson has lived in Westwood, Santa Monica, West Hollywood and Hancock Park, but likes to call all of Los Angeles home. She likes to turn every day into a treasure hunt to find great food, great bargains and the very best the city has to offer.
