My Magnolia: A Post About Where I Buy My Vintage Dresses

Last week, I spent some long work days at The Backyard Studios in L.A. working on an upcoming Christmas album. I've never recorded vocals so quickly in my life. We tracked 10 lead vocals and all background vocals in less than 14 hours, split between two days. In the recording world, that's lightening speed. I'm happy to report that it all felt really solid too. On Saturday when we finished up the last track, I treated myself to my very FAVORITE indulgence when I visit the L.A. area:
Magnolia Boulevard in Burbank.

Magnolia boasts some of the most delightful antique stores and vintage clothing shops around with surprisingly affordable prices. This is where I find most of my vintage dresses. I'm telling you, I'm like a kid in a candy store whenever I visit. My first stop, was Best of Times Antiques. They always have treasures flowing out the door and onto the sidewalk, so you just can't miss it.

A tray of vintage perfume bottles is so sweet.

Lovely linens, pillows and lots of wall art to be found.

I have a thing for Blue Willow.

Owner, Laree Adel, is very friendly and helpful (and so gorgeous). She gifted me the most lovely strand of red, glass beads when I left. Thank you Laree!

Across the street from Best of Times Antiques, you'll find a sweet little gift shop called The Mindful Nest. They have the best selection of artsy gift cards ever and when you walk in prepare yourself for some amazing smells from their customizable bath and body line - apothecary style.

LOOK WHAT I FOUND!!!

Further down the street, you'll find Hubba Hubba, a vintage dress shop laden with old character clothes from Hollywood musicals and plays. The owner, Pat, has owned the store for about 30 years. This woman is full of personality and there is never a dull moment in her shop. You just have to experience going there to see what I mean.

This is the dress rack where I found the dress I wore on the cover of my "Anchor" album and in the "Anchor" music video.

It was $35.00

Photo by Wendy Whitacre of Blue Lily Photography, Artwork by Jed Wells

Immediately next door to Hubba Hubba is another favorite, Swift Vintage Shoppe and Sewing Studios.

Carrie Diaz, the owner, is as lovely as can be and has an incredible eye for fashion. Sadly, I'm not sure there was much we could do for my 7 1/2 month pregnant self this time. Next time, Carrie?

Last year, I bought this lovely dress at Swift and used it on the inside of my album cover art.

Photo by Wendy Whitacre of Blue Lily Photography

You may also recognize it in the motorcycle scene of the music video for "Anchor."

But, wait! I couldn't walk away from Swift without these incredible shoes by Seychelles at 75% off. I adored them so much, I also bought them in gray with brown trim.

And heaven help me, I can't remember the store name, but almost adjoined to Swift is yet another juicy vintage dress shop, specializing in formals. You simply must check it out.

They have a fantastic selection of vintage shoes.

For the perfect afternoon on Magnolia, stop in at Portos Bakery when you get hungry. Every single item on the menu is AMAZING and the desserts have never failed me.
A few other shops among many to check out are: 33 Rooms (where I have bought dresses like this one for less than $15!), Madrid Antiques, and Life Way Thrift Store (where I bought the glowing globe in the Whole Wide World music video). Have fun!

P.S. A few helpful addresses for you:

Best of Times Vintage Collectibles: 3401 West Magnolia Blvd., Burbank
Mindful Nest: 3319 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank
Hubba Hubba Vintage Apparel: 3220 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank
Swift: 3212 W., Magnolia Blvd., Burbank
33 Rooms: 3318 W., Magnolia Blvd., Burbank
Portos Bakery: 3614 W., Magnolia Blvd., Burbank