Business & Tech
Vivienne Westwood Opens First U.S. Store on Melrose
The location will serve as the U.S. headquarters for the quirky British designer's international brand.
After a year of construction and months of anticipation, the iconic and beloved designer Vivienne Westwood has opened up shop in West Hollywood. The 2,000-square-foot space at 8230 Melrose Ave. is not only the United States flagship (there are 350 stores worldwide), but upstairs, above the retail space, is the brand's showroom.
With her name placed boldly in neon pink across the tan exterior, the space is everything you would expect from the eccentric designer best known for her skull-loving, edgy designs. In a single room, aficionados will find shoes, accessories and jewelry, and collections with price tags from the hundreds to the tens of thousands.
“We are thrilled to finally open our new shop in Los Angeles. We have fond memories of our time there and especially love the influence of Old Hollywood," Andreas Kronthaler, Vivienne Westwood's creative director, announced on the brand's website. "We look forward to opening our doors to our existing clients and introducing the brand to a new customer base.”
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Many bloggers and online folks found it gutsy to be opening a luxury brand boutique in this economy, but I think they have underestimated Westwood's loyal customers.
Fashionistas, as well as rebellious fashion souls, have found comfort and identity in Westwood’s punk-influenced accessories and clothing. What's more, the likes of Gwen Stefani, Dita Von Teese, and Sarah Jessica Parker are just some of the A-List lovers of the brand.
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Westwood is also in good company on the famed street, which is sure to attract the usual tourists and regular SoCal shoppers. A little ways down is Alexander McQueen’s West Coast flagship, as well as Diane Von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs, and French designer Vanessa Bruno, who also recently opened a store. Westwood’s addition to the street will breathe some new and exciting life to the block.
Vivienne Westwood herself will allegedly be coming into town on Wednesday to celebrate the store’s official grand opening. It might be worth stopping by.
Vivienne Westwood, 8230 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 12 to 6 p.m. Sunday.