We all have that one friend who always has the coolest one-of-a-kind pieces that get all the compliments when they walk into the room. They're bombarded by questions like "Where'd you get this?" or "Oh, is this such-and-such designer?" only to respond with that it's vintage—dashing all hopes for anyone else to acquire the covetable item. Well, chances are said friend is a seasoned flea-market shopper. These in-the-know shoppers know how to sift through the noise to curate an unreal collection of vintage finds and unique handmade pieces. Then, they work said treasures into their wardrobes with ease, making tired threads feel fresh and retro designs look at home mixed in with a contemporary ensemble. If you're ready to do some vintage hunting yourself, here are the best flea markets in L.A. to get you started.
A Current Affair
A Current Affair is a community of over 150 vintage retailers and private dealers who gather three times a year in Los Angeles (and twice a year in New York and the San Francisco Bay Area). Their offerings boast the best of vintage fashion, with one-of-a-kind clothing, accessories, and jewelry.
When: April 7 and 8
Where:
Cooper Design Space
860 S Los Angeles St.
Los Angeles, CA 90014
Melrose Trading Post
Every Sunday, rain or shine, Angelenos gather at Fairfax High School for an impressive showcase of antique and vintage pieces as well as handcrafted artisan goods at the Melrose Trading Post. The event also hosts a music series featuring local artists.
When: Every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where:
7850 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Silverlake Flea
Every Saturday, this indie flea market takes place on a playground in the heart of Silverlake. The Silverlake Flea offers vintage, antique, and collectibles shopping on a smaller scale for a more intimate experience and also boasts live music acts, free workshops for all ages, and a chance to see the market's mascot and ambassador, Angelyne, and her infamous pink Corvette.
When: Every Saturday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where:
1511 Micheltorena St.
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Santa Monica Airport Antiques Collectibles
The Santa Monica Airport Outdoor Antique and Collectible Market is a destination for everything from estate jewelry to vintage and contemporary fashion to furnishings and décor.
When: First and fourth Sundays of every month from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where:
2900 Airport Ave.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Rose Bowl Flea Market
The mother of all L.A. flea markets—and one of the most famous flea markets in the world—the Rose Bowl Flea Market features over 2500 vendors and 20,000 guests every month.
When: Second Sunday of every month
Where:
Rose Bowl Stadium
1001 Rose Bowl Drive
Pasadena, CA 91103
