fashion district

LA Fashion District Guide: Info, Tips and Where to Shop

The LA Fashion District is perhaps the premier shopping destination in Los Angeles for its bargains and trend-setting fashion. It wasn't always popular — and for understandable reasons. The numbers alone were somewhat intimidating: 90 blocks, 4,500 apparel and accessory lines, more than 1,000 stores. For some, it was like trying to find the best fashion stores in Milan.

Today, Los Angeles Fashion District has become more accessible, particularly for first-time visitors. Restaurants and cafes have cropped up to provide much-needed sustenance. Mannequins catch LA rays and show off newly designed halter-tops and jeans. Foot traffic has increased so much that weekends here outdo the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica.

LA Fashion District has turned into a destination for people all over the country, many having heard the rumors about the cutting-edge styles and bargain-basement prices. Visitors leave raving about the deals, while retailers from Chicago, Philadelphia, New York and other major cities — including those abroad — come to check out the latest from LA’s up-and-coming designers.

Make no mistake: you won’t find any chain stores here. And it’s not shopping for the faint-hearted. In fact, the atmosphere at the LA Fashion District adds to the shopping experience, particularly with the bazaar-like sights and sounds of Santee Alley, the district’s open-air market. For the uninitiated, it can be a shock to your shopping senses.

Never fear. That’s what this fashion district guide is for. Besides, fabulous shopping awaits, and why should anything stop you from your next pair of heels or that new suit? We’ll cover the highlights of the shopping district and give you the nitty gritty details so you can get around more easily. Don’t forget to download the shopping tour podcast from Downtown LA Walks to get more information about the LA Fashion District.