When it comes to stripes, Pamella Protzel Scott has certainly earned hers. Taking her love of art and natural fashion sense--so inherent that it took years of stylist friends using her closet as their go-to source for photo shoots before the fashion-is-my-calling light bulb went off--the designer of the wildly successful Ella Moss is her label personified. Laid back, girlie-with-an-edge and effortlessly cool.

A staple of every Fred Segal-ite since Sarah Jessica Parker wore a green striped Ella Moss dress on Sex and The City, Protzel Scott has expanded her collection over the years to include wee-me versions for girls and toddlers and, just in time for summer, has recently launched a licensing agreement with swimwear big wig Raj Manufacturing.

We caught up with the LA girl to get the scoop on her favorite local spots, including her thoughts on Stella McCartney, leggings and "Desperately Seeking Susan."


1. Where do you go in LA for inspiration?
MOCA, Hollywood Bowl, Netflix for old movie rentals. I rented "Desperately Seeking Susan" which inspired the "punk princess" theme for my Fall '09 collection--lots of lace, leggings and pop colors.

2. Favorite place to shop in LA?
Shareen downtown is a little hidden gem that has the most amazing vintage, Opening Ceremony is always great for very cool finds and endless inspiration.

3. If you only had $100 to spend on an outfit, where would you go?
The Rose Bowl Flea Market and H&M. I have a great vintage red and white polka dot dress that I got [at the Rose Bowl] for $20. It's one of my favs. And I also found the coolest cowboy boots there for about $40. I love the dress with the boots for late spring and into summer.

4. Favorite dish at your favorite LA restaurant?
Spaghetti Bolognese at Madeo on Beverly...it's perfect. 

5. Favorite dive bar or under the radar place you like to hang out?
The Mandrake in Culver City. I always have the best time there. It's in my neighborhood, the music's rockin', the people are so much fun and the drinks are fab. There's also a bunch of art galleries around there, so it's an easy evening out.

6. Do you think it's important to have a signature accessory? What's yours and where did you find it?
I think it's great to mix it up. Wear whatever you're in the mood for. I've always loved scarves and collect them throughout my travels. The street markets in Thailand and Israel have amazing ones that are super cheap. I also really like over-sized men's watches on women.

7. If you could only wear one designer (other than yourself) for the rest of your life, who would it be?
Stella McCartney. I love the versatility and easiness of her clothes. They're simple and chic and can be worn day to night incredibly easily. She has great staple pieces like blazers and dresses that I've had in my wardrobe forever. She makes a woman instantly stylish.

8. If you could've been anything other than a designer, what would it be?
A food critic or a teacher. I've always wanted teach elementary school. Either English or art. They were my favs when I was younger, and I love seeing creativity in children.

9. Biggest trend for the fall?
Leggings. Any and all...lace, sparkle, leather, shine.  

10. What is the one basic piece of clothing that everyone should have in their wardrobe?
A great blazer you can wear many different ways. Casual with jeans and Converse or out at night with a cute mini dress.