Cool Hunting

With Los Angeles' recent spate of new boutiques—from East Coast imports Moss and Opening Ceremony to an A.P.C. flagship—the city's getting a major dose of prime retail adding to the few pioneers who were already there. The following are a couple more (located literally around the corner from each other in the popular 3rd Street district) who are doing their part to balance out the terry cloth tracksuits.

All Purpose
The charming Alessandro Tomassetti is the proprietor of this blink-and-you'll-miss-it shop. (Pictured above and at right.) The idea for All Purpose, which was originally to be a showcase of Tomassetti’s own line, Filius, was expanded to include items for the well-rounded, well-traveled man. His own designs consist of well-made jeans, jackets, and shirts which are always evolving. For fall the inspiration is Houdini at the turn of the century (20th, that is). Think exquisite cotton dress shirts with interchangeable collars. Carrying the theme even further, he has commissioned jewelry designer "the Stones," to do a man of mystery-themed collection of rings, bracelets and necklaces. Additionally, a New York milliner has designed a line of magically inspired hats. For the "distinct man," All Purpose offers 4V00, a line of award winning men's skin care products that ranges from maximum renewal moisturizer and rejuvenating under-eye gel to shine reduction powder and lash and brow styling glaze. Also in stock, the fragrance line from Christopher Brosius, CB Perfume, features distinctive names like wild hunt, eternal return and cradle of light. Just imagine what the scents are like.

144 South Flores Street
Los Angeles, CA 90048 map
tel. +1 323 866 1828

Douglas Fir
For the man looking for a more traditional—yet effortless—approach to dressing, Douglas Fir is the place. Consistency is the key here, which is why the store is eight years strong with a devout following. Look for slim cut and exquisitely tailored Martin Margiela suit jackets whose length falls in a more rational place; Steven Alan shirts with stripes in varying directions, inside out or an unusual collar and placket detail; Mason’s stone washed khakis with a hand as soft as pure silk; and other fine labels such as Coast, YMC, Seize Sur Vingt, C. P. company, Paul Smith jeans and Purple Noon. Accessories include wallets handmade in L.A. from recycled hard cover books by Maxine and Dear as well as a great selection of leather belts and sunglasses. Recently opened across the street is DF Shoes, which carries Martin Margiela, Paul Smith, J-shoe and others.

8311 W. 3rd Street
Los Angeles, CA 90048 map
tel. +1 323 651 5445

by Michael Kucmeroski