Outdoor fashion marts are becoming more and more popular in Los Angeles, and weekend shopping has never been easier. Clothing and jewelry designers, artists, local businesses and makers of hair and body products are there. You can even catch some poetry, a book signing or a fashion show on a Saturday or Sunday. The pleasant, outdoor atmosphere makes it a fun experience for the entire family. There are often giveaways and prizes from artist and designers. One can enjoy art, music and good food from food trucks, and may even run into a few celebrities while shopping and socializing at these local venues.
These new pop-up markets are a way for the community to support local artists, designers, small businesses, and do some necessary shopping along the way. Many new small business are starting and succeeding at these fashion marts, because of the low overhead, direct contact with customers and affordable rental space. It’s a way for the community to experience, sample and try more than 15 businesses, products or services at one time in one place with the high potential of becoming regular customers on and off-line.
The Vendor’s Gala goes on once a month in different locations. The Fashion Truck and Sample Sale happens on every last Thursday of the month in Downtown L.A. and the Afro City Shopping Bazaar in South L.A. usually occurs every first and third Saturday.
Some local designers that are experiencing success from these markets are T-shirt designer Eugene Slusher of “My Black skin is . . .,” handmade jewelry by Darrell Roach Designs, Venus Brooks and Stacie Wade of Soap Divas who participate in the Afro City Outdoor Shopping Bazaar, normally held on every firstt and third Saturday at 4601 W. Slauson Ave. in Los Angeles, will be held on Oct. 27 and 28. Visit www.AfroCitytv.com/shop
