There’s a reason fashion brands and magazines from around the world descend on the desert to source ideas for collections and to shoot sartorial stories. This landscape, and the perpetually sunny lifestyle that thrives within it, inspires ensembles that are at once effortless and elegant. In a place that encourages everyone to be true to themselves, styles spanning the spectrum from music festivals to philanthropic galas fit right in, and it’s all available on El Paseo.
Stylish items on display at Elizabeth & Prince. (Photography by Brandon Harman)
Dress the Part
This is your friendly reminder that it’s OK to be the main character. With acclaimed fashion houses like Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Bottega Veneta, and Gucci standing alongside independently owned boutiques, including BG’s on El Paseo and Earth Spirits, it’s easy to slip into something that lets you live out loud and be you.
Not sure where to start? Let the street’s expert stylists steer you toward snappy attire for the whole family. At locally owned Grayse and Summer Colony Living, you can even schedule a private appointment to find your best fit. The latter will connect you directly with a designer for your very own custom couture creation.
Dress the Part
This is your friendly reminder that it’s OK to be the main character. With acclaimed fashion houses like Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Bottega Veneta, and Gucci standing alongside independently owned boutiques, including BG’s on El Paseo and Earth Spirits, it’s easy to slip into something that lets you live out loud and be you.
Not sure where to start? Let the street’s expert stylists steer you toward snappy attire for the whole family. At locally owned Grayse and Summer Colony Living, you can even schedule a private appointment to find your best fit. The latter will connect you directly with a designer for your very own custom couture creation.
Chic accessories from Dominique Cohen (Photo courtesy Dominique Cohen)
Delicate neclaces from Gorjana (Photo courtesy Gorjana)
For a sophisticated resort-inspired look for dinner, shop womenswear at Elizabeth & Prince, House of Lolo, Chrissy’s on El Paseo, or Blonde Clothing Boutique. Fellows will find dapper options at Mares Menswear and Tony’s Men’s Clothing — the latter offers in-store tailoring — as well as national chains Brooks Brothers and J. McLaughlin. Head straight to Janie & Jack for the littlest ones.
Resort vibes reign at Lilly Pulitzer, known for summery prints; 120% Lino, the Italian experts in soft and breezy linens; Kyle x Shahida, the namesake of Real Housewives star Kyle Richards Umansky; and California standbys Trina Turk and Vince. Top it off with a pair of sunnies from Oliver Peoples or Spectacular Shades.
The Finishing Touch
Dress up your look, day or night, with diamonds, fabulous gemstones, or funky costume baubles. Among El Paseo’s most established fine jewelers, Leeds & Son Fine Jewelers displays gorgeous pieces — including luxury watches — that will make every day feel like an occasion. The Fine Jewelry Bar, Uno de 50, Robann’s Jewelers, Gail Jewelers, and Todd & Company specialize in fine statement pieces that tell a story (the latter, in particular, features an impressive collection of estate jewelry and collectibles). For rare vintage designer finds, head to the home store Dragonette Limited and scope out their curio cabinet, and for delicate designs to layer, try new boutiques Gorjana and Dominique Cohen (pick up a hat as well at the latter).
Statement estate jewelry from Todd & Company (Photo courtesy of Todd & Company)
(Photo courtesy Debra Carrington)
MEET A LOCAL
Debra Carrington
Owner, Summer Colony Living
At two storefronts on El Paseo, lifestyle boutique Summer Colony Living uplifts emerging designers while offering customers a personally catered shopping experience. Inspired by so-called “summer colonies” like Palm Desert, Laguna Beach, and the Hamptons, owner Debra Carrington blends laid-back resort sensibilities with elegant sophistication.
“One common comment from our customers across all categories is that they come to Summer Colony to find things that they can’t find any place else,” Carrington says. “We pride ourselves in being unique.” And that singularity extends to the store’s bridal studio.
When trying on gowns, Carrington advises: “Keep an open mind! A lot of time you think you want something, but it may not be right for you.
“Most brides have [an idea of what they’re looking for]. They see photographs in magazines. But it’s really hard to know until you try the dresses on to narrow down the silhouette and the fabrics. That process is exciting for me, to help these brides and mothers of the bride and groom [discover] what they can’t find anywhere else at Summer Colony Living.”