The
Olsen twins, designers and clothiers for years after leaving behind their
acting careers, have opened their very first brick-and-mortar store in the
United States for their Elizabeth and James brand, choosing The Grove shopping
center in Los Angeles for their first site.
Ashley
and Mary-Kate Olsen started the brand in 2007 and have had an active part in
designing it. The new 1,200-square-foot has a clean, contemporary vibe, which
was accomplished with the help of architect David Montalba of Montalba
Architects. The store will carry the brand´s ready-to-wear, accessories and
fragrance collections as well as vintage and specialty decor curated by the
twins.
The
bright interior features white brick walls and wooden floors. Custom-built pale
wood and brushed stainless steel fixtures sit alongside vintage-sourced
furniture for an eclectic, lived-in feel. Handbags, jewelry and eyewear are
displayed on wool felt-lined shelves, marble slabs and leather wrapped trays.
Found objects and accessories hand-selected by the designers such as handmade
pottery, books and pins are incorporated with the collection.
“The
Grove is an LA institution,” Ashley said. “We’ve waited 10 years to do this and
are pleased for Elizabeth and James to be a part of what makes The Grove so
special.”