Los Angeles Gift Guide

564 South Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013 (map)

Downtown L.A.'s ode to four-legged friends is a true pet paradise. Made-to-order meals range from raw-meat burgers and sausage stew to organic frozen yogurt and two kinds of nonalcoholic “dog beer" (!!) while the long list of unconventional products include cat cocoons, sleepy time tonic and his-and-hers Sexy Beast pet cologne.

505 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (map)

Your drama-queen dog will love the fashions at this Los Angeles pet boutique. The chic shop has a wide selection of doggie couture, including lavish collars, comfy sweaters and personalized license tags. There are even surprises for your favorite animal lover--the shop has plenty of personalized jewelry that would make any owner bark with glee.

2400 San Fernando Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90065 (map)

Every dog needs its day at the spa. And this spot offers holistic health care and massages for canines--complete with dimmed lighting, relaxing music and aromatherapy! Here’s a fun fact: massages can help ease behavioral issues and muscle tension for your pup. Sparky will definitely appreciate the extra R&R from a certified pooch masseuse.

2918 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404 (map)

Family game night will never reach a lull after stocking up on supplies at this shop. Aero Hobbies houses an array of collectible cards, alternative board games and miniature figurines from across the globe. The one-stop gaming shop is known for its broad selection of Dungeons and Dragons supplements and Warhammer collectibles.

1311 Montana Ave Ste C, Santa Monica, CA 90403 (map)

This Santa Monica favorite (are we sensing a trend here?) is a one-of-a-kind bookstore and art gallery. The Montana Avenue mecca carries loads of books and related items along with lithographs and limited-edition prints from some of the best childhood storytellers including Maurice Sendack (Where the Wild Things Are), Eric Carle (The Very Hungry Caterpillar) and Dr. Seuss himself.

1810 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (map)

Loz Feliz’s hip baby boutique is known for its selection of teensy cutting-edge fashions, guaranteed to add some pint size pizzazz to your mini fashionistas and future studs--think itty-bitty Joe’s Jeans, tiny Splendid tees and Paul Frank pajamas. If you’re looking for a bargain, check the sale items which can be marked down 50% off retail.

1764 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (map)

Tucked along the main thoroughfare of Vermont Avenue lies this haven for fashionistas with a penchant for vintage style. The boutique’s selection of handsewn sequined capelets, metallic sweater dresses, stylish silk blouses and one-of-a-kind jewelry offers plenty of gift-giving options. Oh, and the collection of retro shades is not so bad either.

1953 1/2 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (map)

Eco-friendly females will do a lot a lot more than hug a tree to get a hold of Carol Young’s un-designs. Fill her closet with clean, modern silhouettes made from unconventional materials--think bamboo, soy and soda pop fleece. This green boutique also offers a medley of affordable jewelry like vermeil necklaces, reclaimed wood rings as well as a hodgepodge of occasion cards and baby items.

4516 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (map)

Nothing is mass-produced in this L.A. housewares boutique. Many of the store’s items are handpicked or designed by owner Arzu Benavides. Your girl will love your attention to detail with the shop’s collection of-one-a-kind leather handbags, handmade ceramic dinnerware and hand-blown glass lanterns.

43 N Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103 (map)

Pasadena’s alternative to mass-produced, commercial soaps and shower gels. This quaint Fair Oaks Avenue shop offers handmade bath and beauty products made from essential oils and fine herbs. No synthetic fragrances or colors here--everything is au naturale. Recessionistas, be sure to check the Soap Kitchen’s website for plenty of luxurious gift ideas for under $25.

8215 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 (map)

If your guy needs an Adam Brody-sized makeover, this WeHo shop is a definite must. Lanky boys will love the brand’s selection of slim-fitting polos and oxfords. Clothing is true to the brand’s retro-chic style; expect plenty of fluorescent plaid shirts and comfy cotton jersey cardigans. Even better, sale racks are packed with great deals.

4351 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029 (map)

Surprise your two-wheeled dude with some gear from this indie bike shop that's always stocked with high-end bike parts and accessories. If you’re unsure whether a new Tioga spyder saddle is the right choice, play it safe and get something from the selection of messenger bags, vintage posters, pint glasses and tool kits.