Nasty Gal Blog

Monday, August 17, 2009 Sophia’s Corner: Nasty Gal’s Secret Vintage Sources

*Thanks so much to Geri Hirsch of BecauseImAddicted.net, my hands-down favorite blogger and Angeleno extraordinaire for including me in her weeklong domination/guest blogging for LuckyMag.com. Be sure to check back throughout the week to see what she’s up to!

Finding great vintage pieces can be a frustrating and time-consuming task, even for the most talented stylists and addicted shopaholics. A perfectly fitted sequined blazer, a Dior gown, or even worn-in cut-off Levi’s are much easier to come by if you know where to look. Thanks to Rachel Zoe, Decades and Decades Two are world renowned, and most Angelinos are aware of the gems found at the Fairfax Trading Post. But, what about the rest of LA’s vintage secrets? Secondhand guru Sophia Amoruso, founder of my favorite online vintage boutique ShopNastyGal.com, to bring you her top 5 vintage haunts.

Sophia, who is based in Berkeley, CA, takes monthly trips to LA, searching high and low for one-of-a-kind finds to sell on her site, which regularly caters to a roster of trendsetting celebrity customers such as Harley Viera Newton. Trust me when I tell you that Sophia does not reveal her vintage-digging secrets easily, so take notes!

1. CERRE
1647 North Las Palmas Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90028
“Cerre has one of the most tightly curated selections of vintage I’ve ever seen. They specialize in their own line of handmade suede bags and jewelry, but the vintage is what I swoon over. The entire space is made of reclaimed wood and metal, and has a very organic atmosphere.”

2. The Rose Bowl
1001 Rose Bowl Dr
Pasadena, CA 91103-2813
“Not a secret, but a great source for vintage in general. Tons of wholesalers and small boutiques set up shop every second Sunday of the month with every type of vintage imaginable. A great spot for people watching too!”

3. Lemon Frog Shop
1202-B N Alvarado St
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(213) 413-2143
“Probably the closest in selection to my boutique, Lemon Frog Shop is a newish shop in Echo Park packed from ceiling to floor with fabulous clothing, shoes, boots, and jewelry. The owner has an impeccable eye and there is most absolutely something for everyone.”

4. Jet Rag
“Jet Rag is massive, but it’s their outdoor $1 sale on Sundays that keeps me coming back. There’s nothing I love more than digging through heaps of vintage!”

5. Replay Vintage
4010 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90029
“Albert has some of the best vintage boots and shoes around. Where he finds them I have no idea. Their vintage eyewear selection is also unparalleled.”