Boutiques at La Plaza Palm Springs

By Melissa Daniels

Palm Springs is a shopper’s delight – one could spend an entire weekend wandering in and out of shops downtown checking out stylish clothes and funky gifts that you won’t find anywhere else.

So where is a fashion-forward traveler to begin?

For the shopper who wants something unique – or those who are eager to support locally owned businesses – look no further than La Plaza Palm Springs. This center served as the first of its kind outdoor shopping center when it opened in 1936. It sits on the site of the first hotel in Palm Springs.  It continues to be a trendy shopping district frequented by locals and visitors alike.

Here are a few highlights of boutiques you’ll find when you head to La Plaza Palm Springs:

 White Llama

Since opening up in February 2021, White Llama has become a hit with shoppers who can’t help but stop when they walk by the colorful store window displays. Owner Raul Osorio curates this fine collection of Alpaca wool clothing and tapestries from artisans in Peru, where he’s originally from. The shop has an intimate feel despite being a larger storefront in the area, with no shortage of warmth and color on every display.

Clothing items include thick and cozy ponchos, colorful sweaters, and crocheted dresses. You’ll also find a great selection of children’s clothes, scarves, and Alpaca wool accessories like socks and gloves that make for the perfect gift back from your travels – whether to a loved one, or to yourself!

TRU Self Care Boutique

For cutting-edge casual fashions with a distinctly Coachella Valley vibe, look no further TRU Self Care Boutique. This family-owned and Latina-owned shop opened up in La Plaza in 2021. Their first spot opened a year earlier in the city of Coachella. Jonathan Trujillo, who helps run the boutiques, said they specialize in seeking out unique items you can’t find anywhere else — and once you’re in, you’ll see why.

Shoppers will find a lovingly-curated selection of chic items from Mexican artists and designers, including flowing peasant skirts, on-trend items like oversized jackets, and cropped tees with empowering themes.  These are the kind of items you won’t find anywhere else, like denim vests with an embroidered silhouette of Frieda Kahlo, Knit bags, gemstone jewelry, adorned flat-brimmed hats, and natural skin care items from Latina-owned brands.  TRU Self Care truly has something to make everyone shine.

Mercado Plaza

 Across the street from La Plaza you’ll find Mercado Plaza, which is home to several other fun boutiques to scope out.

 For the trendy fashionista who wants to come home with something luxe and lovely, Prickly Pear Boutique is locally owned and operated. They specialize in women’s boutique quintessential leisurely looks: think soft and flowing maxi dresses, silky blouses, and fuzzy sweaters. An array of swimsuits, hats, sunglasses and delicate jewelry will leave you walking away feeling comfortable and glamorous at the same time.

Mercado Plaza is also home to British Invasion, a longstanding downtown Palm Springs retailer. Here you’ll find a colorful and comfortable array of men and women’s vacation wear imported from the United Kingdom. It’s a go-to stop for a new sundress for your al fresco dinner, patterned loafers to jazz up an outfit, or fun printed button-downs to pair with a casual suit.

On the other side of the plaza you’ll spot Mario’s of Palm Springs. It’s a great choice for women’s wear like colorful silk tops and summer-weight wraps. They also have a wide selection of chunky necklaces, fun handbags and scarves for shoppers looking for that perfect last-minute accessory before their next downtown event.   

Bonus tip: Vintage consoussiers at La Plaza will want to cross over Indian Canyon Boulevard to hit up Mitchell’s for men and women’s vintage fashion.  You can scope out a variety of designer vintage items and perfect your retro Palm Springs look.  Plus, it’s a great place tp scout out high-end vintage designer bags and shoes.