Best new indie shops: Best for channeling California style

Achieve a breezy Los Angeles aesthetic.

By Leah Faye Cooper Mon Apr 11 2011

Best new indie shops 2011

  • Creatures of Comfort

    Creatures of Comfort

  • Rachel Comey Blithe dress, $483, at Creatures of Comfort

    Rachel Comey Blithe dress, $483, at Creatures of Comfort

  • Robert Clergerie Solta sandals, $550, at Creatures of Comfort

    Robert Clergerie Solta sandals, $550, at Creatures of Comfort

  • Patrick Ervell men's button-down, $196, at Creatures of Comfort

    Patrick Ervell men's button-down, $196, at Creatures of Comfort

  • Photograph: Grant Asken

    The Hundreds

    The Hundreds

  • The Hundreds photo tee, $34, at The Hundreds

    The Hundreds photo tee, $34, at The Hundreds

  • The Hundreds team hat, $29, at The Hundreds

    The Hundreds team hat, $29, at The Hundreds

  • The Hundreds Wayne high-top, $74, at The Hundreds

    The Hundreds Wayne high-top, $74, at The Hundreds

Creatures of Comfort

Creatures of Comfort

Winner: Creatures of Comfort
New York may be the fashion capital of the world, but there's a certain breezy aesthetic that can be accomplished only by rocking an L.A.-approved ensemble. VPL bodysuits with mesh insets ($185) and Patrick Ervell men's button-downs ($196) get equal play alongside the store's eponymous line, which includes luxe crop tops ($150) made from Japanese linen jersey. While less expensive thrills like Hansel From Basel woven carryalls ($30) provide attainable satisfaction, pricier items shouldn't be overlooked: Robert Clergerie strappy metallic sandals ($550) are a glorious investment. 205 Mulberry St between Kenmare and Spring Sts (212-925-1005, creaturesofcomfort.us).

Runner-up: The Hundreds
California culture abounds at the Hundreds, where vaulted ceilings are pierced with black columns and a hip-hop-heavy soundtrack creates a shopping atmosphere cooler than most. The store's own line of men's apparel and accessories (canvas sneakers, $59, come in an array of colors and are enclosed in Plexiglas cases) is ideal for the sort of dudes hoping to perfect the "I look great and I barely had to try" look. Hawaii Five-0 star and part-time photog Scott Caan teamed up with the Hundreds to roll out a set of limited-edition photo-print tees ($36), which could easily be paired with the store's lightweight rain hoodies ($112). 96 Grand St between Greene and Mercer Sts (646-351-1917, thehundreds.com)

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