During the holidays, shopping for the perfect gift can be stressful. But if you’re lucky enough to live in Los Angeles — with its uniquely diverse shopping options — it doesn’t have to be. Exploring different L.A. shops can make the experience easier, more fun, and full of unique finds.
Why endure the hassle of freeway traffic when you can find everything on your shopping list in one place? The convenience of shopping in person at traditional mom-and-pop gift shops offers a one-and-done experience, complete with gift wrapping. And if you’re not into the traditional scene, local specialty stores are standouts, offering gifts for even the most difficult-to-shop-for person. These L.A. shops offer personality and variety you won’t find anywhere else.
Top L.A. Shops to Explore This Holiday Season
Looking for a box of handmade stink bugs, grasshoppers, cicadas and colorful longhorn beetles? Gold Bug in Pasadena is your go-to. Want to surprise the independent artist in your life with cool silk-screened T-shirts made in L.A.? Virgil Normal has a wide range of options (and it’s located conveniently close to Courage Bagels). And if you’re a fan of shopping and snacking, Helms Bakery offers a variety of grab-and-go items, including chocolate chip cookies and sandwiches, that you can enjoy while exploring gift options from different L.A. shops.
All the scarves, ascots, pocket squares, and bandanas in this Venice store are handcrafted from locally sourced dead-stock fabrics and are knotted and blessed. The store also offers home goods, books, hats and hoodies, baby blankets, candles, jewelry and custom requests. “Our vision is that through the scarves we remind each other to take a moment each day to bless ourselves and to speak kinder to ourselves,” says head of operations and growth Deanna Jubran. “It’s a message we are working to spread with each and every one of our guests.
