Unique LA showcases local vendors in the fashion district

The 7th Annual Unique LA showcased fresh, new vendors at the California Market Center in downtown Los Angeles this past weekend. The two-day event was located on Ninth Street in downtown Los Angeles’ fashion district.

The spring show included independent designers, artists, crafters, and more who set up shop to sell their products and wares. The exhibit took place at the penthouse of the California Market Center where the specialty vendors were able to display their merchandise, spotlight their brand, and expand their customer base. Retail participants of the event included View Apparel, Gravity LA, NeoClassics, MNKR, Sacred LA, Jill Aiko Yee, Trendy and Tipsy, Apt B Collective, and more. Non-fashion related vendors range from accessories to baked goods to interior design.

Brands showcase their wares at Unique LA Spring Show

Certain brands are known for their frequent appearance at the Unique LA show. MNKR has popped up at the show a couple times prior to this year’s event. The California based apparel company offers vintage graphic tees for both men and women. The brand, founded 12 years ago, started with a vision for combining skateboard graphic design and the style of L.A. into apparel. Now, the apparel sources its clothing line at over 48 different retailers including California, New York, Maryland and even a couple stores based in Australia.

Jill Aiko Yee, designer of her eponymous clothing line, also is no stranger to Unique LA. The contemporary fashion line has presented its clothing at the spring craft show in previous years before. This year, the designer offered bold feminine designs for sale at her pop-up booth. The brand, described as the “uniform for creative women” includes maxi dresses, flowy shirts, and vibrant patterns. The clothing emphasizes a comfortable, upscale fashion look. Through this event, Jill Aiko Yee is able to re-introduce their clothing into the local community.

Unique LA show helps boost local economy

The show is known as the largest made-in-America shopping event in the country. Its locally handcrafted, quality products make the spring market unique to Los Angeles. Unique LA has helped over 4,000 designers in the past increase their revenues by allowing these entrepreneurs to sell their products. In the past, approximately 232,000 people have attended Unique shows. The show has provided exposure to over 8,000 brands. Unique has similar shows set in New York City and San Francisco. Approximately 9.3 million dollars has been spent at Unique shows. Due to the nature of the shows, all money spent goes back into the local economy as the shows are based in the cities of the participating vendors.