Three Black-Owned Boutiques in L.A.That You Can Go in Right Now
Online shopping?! Ew!
Unlike the majority of my peers, I do not like shopping online. If it’s something I absolutely need to have, and I can’t find it, or anything close enough to it elsewhere, I’ll suck it up and do the transaction virtually. If there is any possible way I can do it in-person though, that’s the route I’ll take. I want to be able to see the items I’m browsing thru.. see, as in with my eyeballs, 4D, a tangible item in front of my face that I can reach out and touch.. not pictures. Shoot, I want to use all of my senses! You may catch me smelling a blouse. I want to feel a pair of pants on my tush, and move around, and hear what sound they may make as my thighs rub together.
Black-Owned Brick-and-Mortar Clothing Stores in L.A.
In addition to a look at the merchandise, the overall experience is closer. There are real live human beings greeting you when you enter a physical store, as opposed to a “join our mailing list” pop-up when you entire an online store. Whether it’s a “hello” or “would you care for a mimosa,” it’s the personal interaction, that makes the difference. Some of my girlfriends from back home say they have to shop online due to the lack of options where they live. That’s not an excuse in Los Angeles. L.A. is filled with brick-and-mortar businesses! Here are a few Black-owned boutiques I’ve shopped in recently.
The Small Shop L.A.
215 W. 6th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90014
When I say I stumbled across this, I mean I literally stumbled… I was on my rollerblades, getting ready to walk (roll) across the street, when I got tripped up by the curb and this guy was nice enough not to hit me. (Though I may not have minded because his car was hella nice, so maybe his insurance was too). We chatted briefly, and I found out he owns a business in that area.
Located right in the midst of where some major civil unrest took place over the wrongful death of George Floyd, his Small Shop was hit. Though affected by the demonstrations, Joel, the owner, says he wasn’t upset. His storefront glass may have been shattered, but his spirit wasn’t.
It’s a funky little spot in DTLA. Only a mile west of the Arts District, the vibe is very fitting. You know that artsy, but urban kid? Yeah, that’s what this store gives me. From graphic tees, to their signature Lost in Los Angeles hoodies, to retro fashion glasses, you’ll be on point to hit one of the many rooftops downtown, or an art show!
outside of The Small Shop L.A. with owner, Joel Stallworth
Nobody Jones
5593 W. Pico Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90019
After devouring some delicious shrimp and grits at My Two Cents, one of my old co-workers wanted to stop into a pet place in that same plaza. Being that I’m not an animal person at all, I had no interest in going in there, so I popped into the shop for humans next door instead.
At this neat boutique in Mid-City, you’ll find brightly colored printed sun dresses, casual leisure sets, as well as statement t-shirts. They offer an assortment of apparel for a range of body shapes and age groups. We all know sex sells, but every now and again, it’s nice to be cute without showing your whole tail. Their selection is modern, while maintaining a classic ladylike essence.
Upper Room
5082 W Pico Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Once again, leaving brunch at My Two Cents (this time having had the chicken and waffles), my girlfriend that was visiting from Louisiana and I decided to walk off our food. As we’re making our way down Pico Boulevard, she spots some dressed mannequins on the sidewalk, and we figure we may as well go in.
Now this isn’t a church, but you may be in for a blessing. Shortly after entering, we were offered mimosas.. that’s what I call a warm welcome ☺. The owner was super pleasant and made us feel comfortable. When you take the steps to the “upper room,” you’ll find similar offerings to that of Canal Street in New York City or Old National Discount Mall in Atlanta. Though impressed, not being one for replicas, I stuck to the lower level. There you can find a chill outfit to go do hoodrat stuff with your friends, or a dress for a wild night at the club.
There’s so many more…
Needless to say, this isn’t a comprehensive list by far. These are only the stores I’ve happened to visit over the past week. It’s funny, this wasn’t even intentional; they’re all rather different from one another.
These small businesses have seen riots, and extended closures, and are still standing… with smiles. Their doors are open, they’re following necessary safety precautions, and they’re ready to welcome you.
Who else likes walking into physical stores? Which one of these seem most like your vibe? What’s another store should I visit? Tell me in the comments below!
