Madison

When it launched in 1989, Madison was exclusively devoted to shoes, but in 1995 it added clothing to the mix and has subsequently spawned five more shops. It has such staying power because it combines the depth of a department store with the edit of a boutique: Madison carries the best choices from loads of popular lines (Daughters of the Revolution, Crispin & Basilio, Jenni Kayne) along with a handful of spot-on accessories. While the Robertson location is the poshest, the Malibu locale is appropriately low-key, specializing in easy-to-wear dresses, T-shirts, and bathing suits.
3835 Cross Creek Rd., 310-317-9170,
madisonlosangeles.com