The Grove: Trendy Shopping Al Fresco

The Grove is an outdoor mall that was recently built adjacent to the famous Farmers Market on the corner of Third and Fairfax. It houses many trendy clothing, home and department stores as well as various restaurants and a large multiplex showing the newest films. Although The Grove isn't very big they have a double-decker trolley that runs from one end of the mall to the Farmers Market and back. Parking is plentiful, but can be tricky on Friday and Saturday nights. It's well decorated and even has "dancing waters" (basically a fountain that sprays water to music) across from the theatre. It's a great place to spend a day, especially when the weather is nice. You might even see a star or two roaming these cobblestone streets.

What To Buy: The Grove features department stores, and a variety of specialty stores carrying everything from clothing, shoes, books, electronics and home furnishings. There are many restaurants to choose from here. There is a full service day spa and a state of the art movie theatre as well. If you shop here a lot don't forget to visit The Grove concierge and get your "Grove Card". Bring all your shopping receipts here to earn and redeem your "Grove Points".

What To Pay: Most of the clothing stores offer mid-range prices, not as cheap as the east end of Melrose but not as expensive as Rodeo Drive.

Phone: (888) 315-8883

Address: 189 The Grove Drive

Directions: On the same lot as the Farmers Market and CBS Television City. Website: http://www.thegrovela.com/

Forever 21: Cheap Trendsetters

Forever 21 is a chain clothing store specializing in uber-trendy LA club clothes at cheap prices. Granted the clothes aren't especially well-made, the fabrics are on the cheap side but if you're looking for a fabulous halter top or mini skirt to wear out to the clubs and you don't want to break the bank this is the place for you. You won't care if you only get to wear the piece a couple of times at the prices you pay here it doesn't matter. So whether your planning a girls weekend to Vegas and need a new dress or are just bar hopping in Hollywood later in the evening and want a sequined tube top you saw on J-Lo in last week’s People. This is the place you'll find it!

What To Buy: Hyper-trendy pants, skirts, tops and dresses. Also the latest jewelry, bags and accessories to match your new duds.

What To Pay: Dresses average $25 US, tops $15 US, jewelry $6 US. Also check out the sale rack for deeper discounts.

Address: 189 The Grove Drive

Directions: Many locations all over LA. The above address is for the store at The Grove. Website: http://www.forever21.com/

Samuel French Bookshop: Drama Queens

Samuel French is a specialty bookshop for actors and other entertainment industry professionals. They have the largest selection of plays in the industry. Their plays are available at their store on Sunset (locations in New York City, London and Toronto) or via mail order. Sam French also is one of the two major rights distributors in the country, so theatres wishing to produce plays must contact either Sam French or Dramatists play services to inquire about rights and production fees. Samuel French bookshop also offers actors mailing services, industry magazines and books, etc. Basically anything an actor needs to refine their craft can be found here.

What To Buy: Plays, movie magazines, anything related to show business.

Phone: (323) 876-0570

Address: 7623 Sunset Blvd. Website: http://samuelfrench.com/store/