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The Monocle Shop

Address: 225 26th St., 19b
Cross Street: W. San Vicente
Phone:(310) 395-4180
Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10AM-6PM; Sun., noon-5PM
Website: www.monocle.com
Parking: Lot or street parking
Type: Retail Store


Tucked away in the Brentwood Country Mart far from the trendy streets of West Hollywood, the first Monocle store to open in the United States proves it doesn't have to enlist in all the hype to be cool. With a space of only about 115 square-feet, the itty bitty British-based Monocle projects the very community-engaged vibe founder Tyler Brule was looking for.

Like its slightly older, jolly good brother, The Monocle Shop is the second offspring of Monocle magazine (launched in 2007) that combines global issues with fashion and design. The store's structure is meant to match the layout of both the print and online mediums--a traditional, bold exterior paired with a bright and open interior that is welcoming and leisurely. (Think small-town simpleness of London, where the first Monocle store is located, mixed with that open LA office space.)

Rows of shelves line the walls and designer items from around the world are placed amongst stacks of Monocle issues--both past and current. There are Hinoki candles for $85 and the Japanese brand Porter showcases their bags in all shapes and sizes, ranging from $300-$400, for every travel occasion.  Woolrich Woolen Mills travel blazers can also be found at Monocle in the selected worthy colors of navy and olive. Paired with a $550 price tag, the blazers are rumored to be of extremely limited quantity.

Whether you're an artsy type looking to analyze architecture or you simply want luxurious candles, sturdy luggage and one-of-a-few-kinds of blazers, make sure to add Monocle to your shopping list.