Australian style—beach chic, girly glamour with a touch of sportiness, a saucy urban flair—fits L.A. perfectly.

The hint of exoticism in the clothes at this boutique make the items appropriate but also standouts. Sheila carries hard-to-find Aussie lines Zimmermann, Mink Pink, Metalicus, Alice McCall and even Sunjoo Moon, who is Paris-based but squeezes in thanks to her down-under country of origin. Known for its fabulous dresses, folks flock to Sheila for a guaranteed dose of variety in this sea of shopping sameness—Sheila strives to carry items you won't find at Maxfield and Nordies. A section for children has recently been added in the back of the store, including a play area to keep kiddos occupied while mom shops, and items are eco-friendly (organic cotton clothing and non-toxic toys). Keep an eye open for monthly events like sales and trunk shows. —Laurie Pike