In the croc zone
Jimmy Choo is unveiling its new Rodeo Drive digs just in time to introduce a sunglasses collection and the line’s first fragrance, all inside a better home for those sexy stilettos of course. “I really wanted to create an intimate, feminine space that was non-intimidating,” said Tamara Mellon, the company’s president and founder, “like a friend’s living room.”
One “friend” to visit in the cozy, 1940s-inspired boutique is Bari, a $28,000 crocodile travel bag designed with the private-jet set in mind. (Those slumming it on commercial can join the list of of those vying for a $2,450 Saba, the spring bag that sold out before hitting the floor.)
The store has a separate entrance and fitting room to give the beautiful people privacy, and a cocktail bar should add to the fun. A limited-edition selection of handbags by artist Richard Phillips comes direct from Art Basel, matching the works that will shortly hang on store walls.
It’s a wonder Choo didn’t head to Melrose Place, L.A.’s newest destination for retail luxe. Chief Executive Officer Joshua Schulman makes the answer clear: “There is only one Beverly Hills and one Rodeo Drive.” 2 Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills; (310) 860-9045. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. www.jimmychoo.com
OPENINGS
Indie Collective Artist and former commercial costume designer Gulbin Yavuz offers an eclectic mix in the small space she has set up in Culver City’s gallery district. While her art gallery and clothing store is nearing its one-year anniversary, the opening of “Silk Road,” a new exhibit of collages by Analia Zalazar, is reason enough to check out Indie Collective’s wares. But the real draws here are the “clothing systems” designed by Yavuz. A system of interchangeable skirts allows wearers to change a look as quickly as they change a mood, while a $2,400 Lego-inspired collection of eight magnetic pieces can be styled into 120 clothing combinations (she counted). 6039A Washington Blvd., Culver City. (310) 837-7714. Noon to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
SALES
Stripes Through January: Who knew that Bel-Air offered more than tony real estate? Tucked away in the residential neighborhood is Stripes, the nearly 3-year-old purveyor of all things necessary to make a good outfit great. Contemporary shoes and accessories are 30% to 75% off, which means that you don’t have to feel guilty about grabbing those Tory Burch calf-hair flats. Marc by Marc Jacobs is a store staple, and visitors will find a selection of totes as well as satin Mary Janes on markdown. Leather handbags by Andrea Buckner complete the mix of goods that are likely to please, whether you are simply a picky shopper or a Fresh Princess of Bel-Air. 2936 N. Beverly Glen Circle, Los Angeles. (310) 475-3575. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. www.stripesla.com
Violetgrace Through Jan. 6: This 5-month-old contemporary shop carries a mix of well-known and under-the-radar labels, all 40% off. Jeans by Fine and Level 99 can be paired with Sharon Segal’s breezy basic tops. A selection of dresses include a silver number by Chaiken, along with styles by Walter and Bianca Nero. Also on offer: Delicate jewelry and leather clutches by Lula. 7021 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles. (323) 939-5823. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. www.violetgrace.com
Petro Zillia Through Tuesday: This L.A. Fashion Week favorite offers more than a dash of colorful whimsy, thanks to designer Nony Tochterman’s wild vision. Pieces from summer, fall and even new-arrival resort are 25% off. Along with the store’s namesake collection are denim rompers by Kova and T, which could be quite the head turners once the thermometer rises. Until then, Myne’s floral silk dresses will add a bright spot in the middle of winter gloom. 8218 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles. (323) 782-0424. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. www.petrozillia.com
Adele Today and Monday: Since spring, O.C. style gurus have been flocking to Adele for the edgy labels that hitherto were hard to come by south of 3rd Street. For two days, Adele’s entire selection of sweet styles, including those by French label A.P.C., Cacharel and Bruno Grizzo, will be 20% off. Notable pieces include a Reyes sleeveless, cotton resort dress that just arrived in-store, and a set of seven metal stacking rings by Iosselliani. The L.A. favorite Society for Rational Dress is included too, so it may be time to brave the 405 and head south. 735 S. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach. (949) 376-5850. Sale: 11 a.m. through 6 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday. Regular hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. www.shopadele.com
--
