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Tapping the laid-back but up-to-the-minute Los Angeles vibe, Country Home Executive Editor Sandy Soria and Editor-at-Large Danny Seo explore an emerging pocket of design within the city’s sun-drenched streets in buzzy West Hollywood. Here are some of their favorite stops.
Puppies & Babies
If you think the cutest beings come in small packages, stop in this shop to pick up a tooled leather dog collar, some organic catnip, or an ulta-soft onesie for baby. Co-owner Hannah Brand designs the store’s stylish signature line of original products for cute dogs, cats, and babies.
8363 W. 3rd St., 323/653-3995;
www.puppiesandbabies.com
Zelen
Picking through well-culled vignettes of cool and collected pieces, Danny and Sandy zeroed in on folk-artful needlepoint pillows. A classic home store with a country soul, you’ll find new and antique furniture, dinnerware, and curios for the conscious collector.
8055 Beverly Blvd., 323/658-6756;
www.zelenhome.com
Decades Two
Where else but L.A. could there be a consignment shop flush with the hand-me-downs of stars, stylists, and fashionistas? From Fendi handbags to Manolo heels, the bargains carry the best labels. Give yourself ample browsing time.
8214 Melrose Ave., 323/655-1960;
www.decadestwo.com
Plastica
Most of the unique merchandise you’ll find here is molded from pliable plastic. Artists local and global contribute one-of-a-kind items ranging from functional to fun. Danny’s favorite? Bright rugs made from recycled polypropylene for $75.
8405 W. 3rd St., 323/655-1051;
www.plasticashop.com
The Cook's Library
A bookstore for the belly at last! Satisfy your craving for hard-to-find cookbooks at this intimate, independent bookseller. Find everything from simple dinner ideas to delicate dessert recipes. Consult the friendly staff for helpful tips, or just rock and read in some of the store’s wicker furniture. And be sure to help yourself to the homemade goodies that are often brought in.
8373 W. 3rd St., 323/655-3141
Fraiche Fine Gifts
This shop specializes in fruit baskets based on 17th-century still-life paintings. No cellophane allowed! Also check out their other gift baskets, including decadent chocolates and luxury bath.
8361 W. 3rd St., 323/655-2880;
www.fraichegifts.com
Quality Food & Beverage
Get stoked for a day of shopping with breakfast at this L.A. restaurant. A local morning favorite, this eatery serves up a friendly aura alongside homestyle victuals like biscuits and 9-grain pancakes.
8030 W. 3rd St., 323/658-5959
Where To Stay
Danny likes to nestle into the Hollywood area at the hip but cozy Farmer’s Daughter Hotel.
115 S. Fairfax Ave., 800/334-1658; www.farmersdaughterhotel.com
Or splurge at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, which Sandy loves for its beach location as much as the spa and the chef’s amazing cheese fondue.
310/458-6700;
www.loewshotels.com
Other Notable Stops
Bodhi Tree Bookstore
One of the oldest shops on Melrose Avenue, this bookstore boasts a wide selection of philosophical literature, as well as its very own three-story bodhi “tree of enlightenment.” Check the shop’s Web site for updates on book signings and annex lectures.
8585 Melrose Ave., 310/659-1733;
www.bodhitree.com
The Orchid Wrangler
Find living in all shapes, colors, and sizes and chat with the florist about proper orchid care. L.A. locals can sign up for an Orchid of the Month delivery.
8365 W. 3rd St., 323/655-0855;
www.orchidwrangler.com
Ev Rental Cars
Motor your way around L.A. with a “clean car.” This company rents environmentally friendly hybrids and natural-gas vehicles that are all the rage right now.
5500 West Century Blvd.;
www.evrental.com
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