Flea markets are an incredible way to support small businesses while shopping, as they not only offer unique pieces but also allow buyers to shop locally. Los Angeles is home to an array of vintage flea markets, which have recently flourished given the rise of second-hand shopping alongside the reemergence of older fashion trends.
The Los Feliz Flea is a great example of this. Now located in the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, the market features over 200+ vendors, ranging from vendors specializing in fashion to local food vendors. Amongst the vendors was Rafael Zipagan, who has been selling vintage clothing and jewelry pieces at the flea for about a year. “The crowd is great, there’s always a lot of people here and they support this market whenever they come,” he said. “Everyone’s so nice, even the people that are in charge here from online booking to security and everything.”
Dominique Perles, a clothing vendor at the Los Feliz Flea, shared similar positive sentiments with the overall encouraging attitude of the market and how the market provides an outlet for small businesses to better support themselves. She stated, “I think the market is a really great place to meet other like-minded people and just be able to network and sell everything that people are digging for during this time.”
The market additionally allows vendors to pursue philanthropic initiatives. Perles, who had to close down her previous storefront due to the COVID-19 pandemic, shared that her business is also a non-profit that donates proceeds to animal rescues in the local area. “I’m now raising money to save up for another storefront. I’ve been saving for two years and hopefully this year I can open one up,” she shared.
The Los Feliz Flea consists of several levels to shop and roam around. The first level contains mostly antiques and fashion-related items, the second level is a free parking lot, and the third level features the majority of vendors with a diverse range of products. Upon visiting the market for the first time, it immediately became clear just how many businesses there were to explore. There was a heavy emphasis on vintage, second-hand clothing and jewelry, although there were additionally some vendors selling various accessories, locally crafted products, and fragrances.
The Los Feliz Flea is a strong option for those seeking to explore the vintage market scene of Los Angeles while being able to support the local community and its small businesses. With the wide range of items and clothing available, the market has something to offer for everyone, even for those who may be new to vintage and thrift shopping.
*The Los Feliz Flea is now located at 1030 Alpine St. Los Angeles, CA 90012. Open every Saturday & Sunday 11 AM-5 PM
