Venice Goes Luxe

I'm amazed how every time I venture over to Venice's Abbot Kinney to check out the shops, there's always a major transformation. Venice has always had that sort of Brooklyn thing going for it - a little edgy with an eclectic mix of hipsters and artists living next to million dollar abodes. When I first moved here in 2004, Abbot Kinney reminded me of Brooklyn's Smith Street in Carroll Gardens where I had my boutique, stacia new york. Independent boutiques alongside cool cafes and art galleries were the norm (no chains in sight.) I even seriously thought of reopening my boutique on this very street in one of the free-standing bungalows, but seeing the light traffic along the sidewalks, I was hesitant to repeat my Smith Street experience.

Today, the walking traffic has increased (only slightly) and the stores have already changed hands a few times in only 3 years, but the real surprise on this trip were the multitude of cool, modern architectural creative spaces and luxe storefronts that have emerged. Unfortunately, a lot of them are still vacant waiting for tenants willing to put out the big bucks I'm sure. The poor independents don't have a chance (hence the opening of the controversial Pink Berry.) But despite all the changes and comings and goings of new businesses (much like the pricey Montana Avenue shopping strip), there are still some old standbys for me along Abbot Kinney, those who've been able to hold their own (so far!) A must stop if you've never been is the funky little shop, Surfing Cowboys, at 1624 Abbot Kinney which houses a vast array of surf memorabilia (think 1918 original balsa-wood surfboards), retro-contemporary furniture (used), and even cowboy boots (new)! I also love to browse the stacks of art books, surf biographies, and vintage novels at the lofty open-air store, Equator Books at 1103 Abbot Kinney. And for a quick bite to eat or a decadent treat (or two!) stop by Jin Patisserie at 1202 Abbot Kinney. Love the homemade ice teas and scrumptious Japanese mini desserts!

As for clothing boutiques, there's all price ranges to choose from. For the latest contemporary fashion, check out Princepessa (and it's adjoining sister boutique Vamp) at 1323 Abbott Kinney. Their new expanded store features the latest pricey designer dudes on one side with a little capsule boutique, Vamp, next door that features more affordable trends with the same regal bohemian vibe. For a more polished, high-end shopping experience, there's Heist at 1104 Abbot Kinney, with it's concrete floors, uber-edited mix of city threads in super luxe fabrics. And for the real shopper who can endure the temptations, there's the ultimate gift shop, Firefly, at 1413 Abbot Kinney. In it's new expanded location, you're sure to find those little things that you really don't need but can't help but buy - beautiful note cards, cool books, the perfect tank, some Havaianas, and little trinkets that were intended for gifts but end up in your pocket instead!