Balenciaga

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Joined 10 years ago

Stunning architecture, divine clothes and the most coveted accessories in the world make this Melrose boutique--one of only two U.S. outposts--positively un-missable.. The Scene
The first standalone L.A. store for one of the fashion world's most legendary labels, this sublimely chic boutique is an homage to luxury according to lauded clothier Nicolas Ghesquière. The iconic designer partnered with French artist Dominique Gonzalez-Foerster to bring a science fiction-meets-high fashion vision to life inside the custom-designed, 5,000-square-foot, two-story retail space.

The Goods
Fronted by an architectural cactus garden, the striking building holds some of the city's fiercest duds: Silk shifts in acid-colored floral prints, perfectly cut button downs, voluminous minis and crisply tailored pencil skirts. For dapper gents, there are slim trousers, perennially cool safari jackets, buttery leather jackets, and color-blocked cashmere sweaters. And, of course, there are swoon-worthy Lariat bags galore in tons of styles, fabrics and sizes.

Hits:
Oh, the shoes! From perfect gladiator sandals to studded ballet flats, Mr. Ghesquiere's footwear is truly without peer.

Misses:
Oh, the prices! Even savvy shoppers may experience sticker shock.