Progressive fashion is the concept behind Melrose Heights' newest tenant, which houses up-and-coming designers from all over the world.

After graduating from Otis College of Art and Design, LA native Jade Lai went on a vision quest through Europe, China and Tibet. Upon her return, she opened a boutique that showcased talent popular in the world's other fashion capitals. She had always favored minimalist, design-focused style—think Comme des Garcons and Dries Van Noten—and transplanted designers of the same ilk who were younger, lesser known and more affordable. Shoppers can find pieces from Vogue darlings United Bamboo and Imitation of Christ along with delicate dresses by Vena Cava, separates from Grey Ant, and heels from LD Tuttle. The store's subtle touches— white walls with gray-bottom trim, concrete floors and yellow plumbing-pipe racks on wheels—balance out the universe by creating a sort of anti-Kitson. Fashion-conscious starlet Mischa Barton is already keen on this shop, but Lai vows not to let her place get too trendy.—Enid Portuguez