This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Oxy chapter.
Tired of showing up to an event or party and seeing someone else in the same exact dress? Feel like you haven’t taken advantage of all the great shopping opportunities L.A. has to offer? Just plain bored of the shops in the Americana or Old Town Pasadena? Her Campus is here to help with a list of three unique and trendy places to shop that are all within five miles of Oxy. And don’t worry they are all within a college student’s budget and you won’t even need a car to get there!
1) PCC Flea Market
You’ve probably heard of the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena adored by tourists and fashion bloggers alike, but have you ventured to its much less crowded little sister, the Pasadena Community College Flea Market? This market is smaller and less well known than the RBF but it is just as full with one of a kind, vintage, and hand made gems. Held every first Sunday of the month, the PCC Flea Market features over 500 vendors, and is a great place to go if you are searching for a higher end vintage piece but even better for those willing to hunt a bit for something truly unique. Since it is a flea market bargaining is encouraged, so head out next first Sunday with some cash and an open mind!
Celebrity style vibe: Sienna Miller captured ‘candidly’ at a music festival
Distance from Oxy: 4.8 mi
Best way to get there: Parking at the market is $2.00 which is low for LA, but the 181 bus route has a stop right in front of PCC so why not take public transit anyway?
2) Urchin
Urchin is a small boutique on York Blvd that sells hand picked thrifted and vintage pieces for both men and women. The shop has a slightly grungy eclectic vibe, friendly staff, and art from local artists hung on the walls. It’s the ideal place to go if you’re looking for something of quality that still has a nice vintage-y wear to it. While you’re there check out the $5 dollar rack which the store-owners say changes daily! As if that isn’t motivation enough Occidental students receive a ten percent discount with the presentation of your school ID.
Celebrity style vibe: Vannessa Hudgens shopping on Melrose Ave in something she just ‘threw on’
Distance from Oxy: 0.3 mi
Best way to get there: Definitely head out on foot, the best way to explore the rapidly changing Highland Park.
3) Owl Talk
If you haven’t been to Owl Talk already, you’ve definitely seen it on Eagle Rock Blvd. right next to Swork Coffee. It’s the perfect shop to visit if you’re looking to experiment with your look, add a new funky piece, or make a statement at an event or party. This shop is unique because it carries hand picked vintage pieces as well as items brought in on consignment. Owl Talk offers everything from shoes and accessories to dresses and jeans, all from a range of decades. Owned by two very friendly and knowledgeable sisters, the store is well organized (by size and color) and is filled with quality vintage clothing as well as antique bobbles that are bound to catch your eye!
Celebrity style vibe: Zooey Deschanel in…well just about any film or real life
Distance from Oxy: 1.0 mi
How to get there: This store is the perfect distance to bike but not too far to walk, car definitely not needed!