LA Fashion District
The basics
One of Los Angeles’ prime shopping destinations, the LA Fashion District is a must-visit stop for bargain hunters and fashionistas looking for one-of-a-kind pieces. The eclectic area is packed with retail outlets, from boutiques to wholesale-only storefronts. Its main artery is Santee Alley: the 2-block-long, open-air market street features a huge array of sellers, and is open every day of the year. Other local highlights include the Los Angeles Flower District (the largest wholesale flower market in the country, also open to the general public) and a number of arts and entertainment venues, including the Avenue des Arts, Orpheum Theatre, and the Escape Room LA.
Hop-on hop-off bus tours provide an overview of the district, while private tours give you the option to customize your itinerary. The area is also accessible to solo travelers and can be visited independently.
Things to know before you go
- The neighborhood is home to dozens of restaurants, from tasty chains (Umami Burger and Stumptown) to independent LA eateries (Sonoratown and Poppy + Rose).
- Leave your stilettos at home; the sprawling neighborhood is best explored on foot, and in order to see as much as you can, comfort is key.
- Some stallholders and retailers don’t accept credit cards, so come with cash; be on the lookout for counterfeit goods, which are also illegal to purchase.
- If you’re looking for high-end items, explore the area between Broadway and Los Angeles Street from 8th to 11th Streets.
- If you plan to try on items, note that not all stalls have dressing rooms; wear light base layers, instead.
How to get there
The LA Fashion District spans over 100 blocks in Downtown LA. If traveling by Metro, take the Blue Line to San Pedro Station, which is near the southern edge of the district. The area is also served by the D and E lines DASH routes, as well as ride- and bike-sharing services and dockless scooters. Upon arrival, map the areas that interest you most and explore on foot.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Most of the shops in the LA Fashion District are open from 10am–5pm, and the stalls along Santee Alley are typically open all year, during normal business hours. That said, individual retailers’ outlets can vary, and it’s advised to research specifics in advance. Many restaurants and bars also cater to evening visitors.
How to Score at the Neighborhood’s Sample Sales
The LA Fashion District is a popular destination for fashion lovers seeking bargains, and nowhere is that more true than at the neighborhood’s sample sales. Typically held on the last Friday of the month in the California Market Center, Cooper Design Space, The Gerry Building, Lady Liberty Building, and New Mart, these sales always attract a frenzy of shoppers. Bring cash, and be aware that many samples are only available in smaller sizes.
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