Cierra O’day Johnson’s Guide to L.A. Vintage
From archival designer to everyday staples, the thrift-obsessed stylist and blogger maps out the best places in Los Angeles to shop for Prada, heels, weird finds and more.
What started as middle-school thrift runs has turned into a finely tuned instinct for Cierra O’day Johnson. She can clock a Prada skirt from across the room and an overpriced tag just as quickly. Today, she navigates the city’s vintage landscape with the precision of a seasoned hunter and shares her finds with the girls online. Whether its estate sales and markets or tightly curated boutiques, she knows where to look. Here, she talks pricing politics, her designer obsessions, and her favorite year of fashion.
Best vintage find ever?
This Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2004 coat that Scout once had still haunts me. So many stores can start to feel interchangeable, but they have a really good perspective when it comes to sourcing.
Best spot on the East Side?
Little Shop is a newer spot that the girls are loving. It’s small but incredibly well curated and feels like girl heaven.
Best spot on the West Side?
I don’t venture to the true West Side very often, but West Hollywood has some of the best vintage stores in the city. Scout, Recess, Ending Soon, and RLT are my usual stops. Each one has a strong point of view and consistently great pieces.
Best spot in the Valley?
Playclothes is a classic. It’s one of those places where you can really spend time digging.
“In middle school, going to local thrift stores quickly became my favorite hobby. My friends and I spent entire weekends going from shop to shop. Whenever I traveled, it was always the first thing I’d look up.”
— Cierra O’day Johnson
Best market?
I’m in constant awe every time A Current Affair comes to L.A. The last time I went, I scored a vintage Prada Fall/Winter 2004 dress and a 1950s Lilli Ann set. (I guess I love 2004 fashion lol.)
Best spot for archive designer?
Aralda is where I go when I want to spoil myself with something special or collectible.
Best spot for basics?
RLT has some of the best basics: everything from cashmere sweaters to vintage Levi’s to classic sunnies. It’s one of those places where you can always find a great wardrobe staple.
Best Prada selection?
Ending Soon has the best Prada selection. The moment I walk in, they start bringing pieces into the dressing room. They know me so well.
Best heels?
Recess usually has a really strong selection of vintage heels, especially if you’re looking for something a little flirty and fun.