Where to Shop for Vintage in Los Angeles and Recommended Items to Purchase, Based on the Insights of a Vintage Curator

      Brynn Jones serves as an editor in residence at Who What Wear and is the founder and curator of Aralda Vintage, a boutique and archive located in Los Angeles. Not a day passes without my thoughts drifting to vintage and antiques. My mind feels categorized into sections dedicated to various genres and types within this vast realm of beautiful, timeless objects. There’s a segment constantly on alert for my business, always on the lookout for which pieces collectors I want to purchase, what’s worth investing in, and how its value could increase over time. Then there’s the personal side, well-thumbed like a beloved book, filled with items I “need” for completion—whether it’s an antique picture frame that matches perfectly for my gallery wall or a pair of vintage jeans that fit just a tad better than the 20 pairs I can’t bear to part with. Lastly, there’s my favorite area: the brilliant, open canvas, where I allow myself to roam shops aimlessly, waiting for clothes and knick-knacks to catch my eye.

      I’ve always had a soft spot for small businesses, drawn to their uniqueness and the charm they exude. Growing up in Portland, Oregon, during the 90s has left a romanticized mark on my life—its nostalgia creating an ever-present longing that can’t quite be satisfied. My favorite childhood activity was heading downtown to window shop. Every store emanated its own energy, each with different aromas, sounds, and textures. If I close my eyes, I can transport myself back: velvet robes, vintage jewelry, Edwardian nightgowns, handmade ceramics—all infused with the scent of Nag Champa incense. A small store brimming with items has always been my happy place.

      Managing a vintage shop is a continual outpouring of passion—the tireless act of sourcing and caring for items is truly a labor of love. For customers, shopping in person brings a joy that online browsing can’t replicate. It’s about experiencing how a shopkeeper displays items, touching and trying on clothes, and chatting with the person behind the counter while enjoying their carefully curated soundtrack. A vintage store is more than just a shop for old items—it’s a form of creative expression and a personal way to connect with people and the past.

      During my latest day off, I explored some of my treasured vintage and antique shops in Los Angeles.

      **Sherman Oaks Antique Mall**

      My first destination was my cherished spot, the Sherman Oaks Antique Mall. I’ve been visiting for over a decade, and it’s still a vault of treasures. If you enjoy the thrill of the hunt, this is the place for you. Each vendor has their own specialty—whether it’s clothing, jewelry, home goods, or picture frames—and you never know what might catch your eye. I typically leave with either antique jewelry or home decor, but this time I also returned with a purple feather cape, some crystals for my son’s 6th birthday, and cufflinks for my husband’s birthday. I even found two small frames to hang together, now displaying photos of my children.

      **Moth Food**

      As I noted, I have a continuously growing collection of vintage denim, much of it thrifted during my travels across the country. My biggest tip is this: whenever you find yourself in a small town, check out the local thrift shops—you might discover your ideal jeans. However, if you’re in Los Angeles and lack time for a road trip, head to Moth Food in Eagle Rock. They’ve already done the legwork, going through numerous racks and tagging each pair of jeans by size and style. Alongside denim, you’ll find daily essentials such as tees, jackets, sweatshirts—even some antique items like a white romper I tried on. These are the types of clothes you wear every day, the ones you take straight from the dryer and put right on again. While you won’t find thrift store prices, you’re paying for the time, vision, and dedication required to curate pieces like these.

      **Cannonball and Tilly**

      I concluded my day at the ultimate vintage fantasy: Cannonball & Tilly. This shop is a haven for turn-of-the-century dresses, 1960s jewelry, and a perfectly nostalgic 90s soundtrack. I probably tried on about 15 pieces, and nearly every song playing triggered a memory from years gone by. This is the pinnacle of vintage shopping for someone like me, who craves nostalgia. Their inventory is playful and exciting—precisely what I look for in the delightful escape that vintage shopping provides. My self-restraint faded, and I indulged a bit. The wonderful thing is, you can enjoy it here without emptying your wallet. This is the go-to spot for finding something special for an occasion, or simply to lift your spirits—a way to fill your cup without draining your funds.