Tuesday, August 25, 2009

La Bella - Relaxed Glamour & Splurgeworthy Style


Belmont Shore, Long Beach Boutique Pique
By: April Madigan @ Boutiquing

I have always loved the old glamour of the waterfront properties that line Long Beach. Large estates vary from mini mansions to quaint craftsman and remind me of a time when architecture was less facade and more individual. The moment I walked into La Bella Boutique in Belmont Shore, I was instantly struck by the old glamour vibe. From the massive chandelier illuminating the entry to the white pillars framing the front like a roman sculpture, La Bella is mansion meets modern with a notable nod to the so close you can hear it beach. Bleached out driftwood serves as a repeating theme throughout this whitewashed boutique, offering itself as display for clutches and amazing vintage inspired rhinestone jewelry by Italian designer Ioselliani.

As I sifted through the glass topped racks, I immediately realized this boutique has quite the collection of cutting edge designers. My favorite being Haute Hippie, I absolutely LOVE everything they do, their designs are the perfect blend of vintage sexy with that necessary restraint that makes each piece so new. Follow the line on facebook HERE, I love checking out which stars are sporting their looks. I am also loving the new line A.L.C., created by stylist to the stars, Andrea Lieberman (clients include Gwen Stefani & J. Lo), her line has that rock feel with something so feminine and luxe thrown in, I couldn't stop eyeing her navy/black striped tee embellished with jet rhinestones. La Bella also has a great selection of Graham & Spencer (who also design Velvet), T by Alexander Wang, Jay Godfrey, and Current Elliot. Erin fell hard for a fantastic LBD by Cynthia Vincent, her line consistently delivers flattering and fresh dresses every season. I was eyeing ruffly tops by Fifteen Twenty (check out Katherine Heigl wearing the look) and the most amazing line of kids clothing by Acoustic Kids. The looks are unlike any other kids line I have seen, kind of European meets vintage with that adorable "I'm with the band" edge that ensures your little one will be the cool one on the playground.

La Bella was literally relaunching their entire accessories section while Erin and I were there, and we got a sneak peek behind the scenes to see the goods before they went out. Gorgeous boots, sumptuous leather bags, and perfect with everything pumps were all lined up and ready to be revealed. La Bella is also receiving a shipment of the newest Cross Body Studded Rocker Bag by Rebecca Minkoff, a bag that already has a cult following. The thing to remeber with La Bella, they order small quantities, so if you find a piece and fall in love, scoop it up because it won't be back. Also, be sure to sign up for their mailing list, they e-mail their hot new arrivals about once a week, and the e-mails are beautiful to look at and give you first dibs:) When you stop by, say hi to Molly and Stephanie, they were so helpful and their personal style will give you all the inspiration you need to start pulling together your glamour meets So Cal look.

La Bella
5280 2nd Street
Long Beach, CA 90803
562.856.3720


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Become a Fan on FACEBOOK
Follow Us on TWITTER
Stay Up-to-Date, get Boutiquing in YOUR INBOX

Copyright 2009 Boutiquing.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without prior written consent.

1 comment:

  1. Nicole,
    I can't beleive it was you!! Remember I was helping you when you were in high school. Now look at you, the Manager of the Best Boutique in Long Beach. I love that you got creative and are doing your own thing with in the store it fits you. Good talking with you today I appreciate all the info. Keep in touch.
    Sincerely,
    Kristina from Ladonna

    ReplyDelete