Hurry before these indie pop up shops disappear. We love seeing designers and entrepreneurs test their proof of concept and spread awareness about their brand. Many of them sign up for a booth in an open venue, such as the Portland Flea, while others temporarily move into extra space in an existing retail space. Thanks to websites such as Storefront, creative can browse design-friendly short-term retail spaces in urban cities with crazy high rent.
Los Angeles
Head to Echo Park in Los Angeles to check out Fluke Vintage Clothing’s pop-up shop. Founder Caren Castleman first unveiled her retro clothes in Williamsburg and gained recognition from Vena Cava. It’s supposedly a haven for some sweet designer steals, such as vintage Issey Miyaki. Through Sept. 1.
Nestled in a nook of the Mr. C Beverly Hills hotel, swimsuit designer Shay Todd set up shop for barely-there two-pieces and cover-ups. It carries a boutique-chic feel similar to her Melrose store. Sorry, it’s for guests only, so book a room on a Sunday afternoon to catch the 20 percent off accessories sale.
One more L.A. dig: Menswear shop Alpha popped up downtown to sell beachy guy gadgets and clothes. Through Aug. 31.
San Francisco
Up north in San Francisco, a chain shopping mall is opening up kiosk space for a rotating line of indie brands associated with SF Made. The central S.F. location is perfect for stores that can’t afford a big retail space. Check out Wildebeest for pet products and home décor store Drip Module. Through October.
