Sales & Shopping

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• March 20, 2007
• Shops We Love

Shops We Love: Salt

Just minutes from the beach, this chic boutique was among the first to set up shop on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, helping to make the art-centric community more of the indie retail haven it is today. Flanked by palm trees, the slim minimalist space boasts sleek racks lining one side of the shop while wooden shelves at waist-level line the opposite wall. Owner Holly Boies is heavily influenced by Japanese fashion, in part due to her former gig with designer Issey Miyake. She also stocks European brands such as Hache from Italy. "I cater to the more sophisticated woman," she says. "Women will buy things from me and have the pieces in their wardrobes forever. I follow my own instinct. It's all about textiles and prints for me."

Salt's claim to fame is likely its "best of the basics" focus, according to Holly. Most items can be dressed up or down, and from time to time you'll find an unusual dress among the constant mix of everyday basics. Driven by quality and fit, Holly eschews trends and instead opts for items with a more classic appeal. You won't find trendy L.A. denim here, but instead a classic trouser-cut jean that works equally well for day or night. She also offers a sweet selection of jewelry and she occasionally carries handbags and shoes. "I think people see lines that they aren't likely to see elsewhere in L.A.," Holly says. "Hopefully, that's something that makes us special."

Salt, 1138½ Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291, 310-452-1154