Los Angeles : Lucky Magazine

Maison Martin Margiela

One of the pioneers behind deconstructed, challenging clothing, Martin Margiela focuses on expertly tailored pieces in a monochromatic palette. He has more than 10 gallery-like freestanding shops around the world, including his space in Beverly Hills, which is coolly bare and industrial.

9970 S. Santa Monica Blvd., 310-284-8093, maisonmartinmargiela.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs and Marc Jacobs

The more affordable Marc by Marc Jacobs occupies a huge, concrete building on Melrose, loaded with the complete collection along with the super-cheap items that it's now famous for (rain boots, kitschy key chains, rhinestone bracelets). The luxe signature Marc Jacobs line is tucked away around the corner on Melrose Place in a fancy, ivy-coated building.

8410 Melrose Pl., 323-653-0100; 8400 Melrose Pl., 323-653-5100

Market

By Malene Birger blouson tunics, Inhabit cashmere Henleys, and Olga Kapustina kimono-sleeved dresses fill this cabana-inspired space.

11620 Barrington Ct., 310-471-3408

Marni

Undone elegance is the prevailing theme of the pieces here, which look as if they'd belong in a hip galleryite's closet. They have a knack for stunning embellishments, whether it's an unfinished hem or an asymmetrical smattering of stones around a neckline. At the Los Angeles space, the racks billow across the wall in S-curves, and standout pieces dangle from the ceiling.

8460 Melrose Ave., 323-782-1101, marni.com

Mas

Half of this spot is devoted to men's lines with a slightly streetwear-esque aesthetic, a straightforwardness that carries over to the women's side. Search out the California-based names, like J Brand, Lova, KZO, Endovanera, Simon Miller, and Maison Martin Margiela.

3511½ W. Sunset Blvd., 323-663-3112, masboutique.com

Maxfield

Ever wonder what a $20,000 Hermès bag looks like? The challenge with this West Hollywood landmark is not to gape at the sky-high price tags or the incredibly beautiful clothes, by brands like Balmain and Rick Owens.

8825 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 310-274-8800, maxfieldla.com

Milk

With so much to explore in this sizable boutique, there's almost zero chance that you'll walk away with nothing. Racks are packed with Sretsis carousel-horse-print dresses and Humanoid cashmere cardigans.

8209 W. Third St., 323-951-0330, shopatmilk.com

Minnie T's

A sense of quiet elegance is evident from the moment you step into this boutique. From the Rick Owens Lillies line to boots by Fiorentini + Baker, everything here has a warm, welcoming feel that encourages you to linger.

1355 Abbot Kinney Blvd., 310-664-3600

Mister Freedom

Save for a solitary drawing of a caveman on its exterior, this vintage warehouse is completely unmarked. Inside, there's a world of meticulously sourced army/navy and workwear from the 1890s to the 1970s, for both sexes. Some of the rarer items are pricey, but there are deals mixed in too: well-loved tees, perfectly beat-up cowboy boots, and simple khaki button-downs.

7161 Beverly Blvd., 323-653-2014, misterfreedom.com

Miu Miu

Prada's sister store is slightly more moderately priced, and just a touch more offbeat, than the original line. Expect cap-sleeved gowns in acid green, tops crafted from orange neoprene, and loads of cool ruched leather bags.

317 N. Rodeo Dr., 310-247-2227