Roughly 6 years ago I stumbled on a well kept secret shop in Santa Monica, The Brat Store. Whether I was getting ready for that hot date, or stepping out to a show, they always had just the right outfit to make me feel a little hipper, a little cooler than the other kids at the bar. You have no idea how many times I’ve been out in that sweater with the star embroidery or the super cute bondage pants and got nothing but “I love that – where did you get it?” all night long. And its not just fashions for the ladies, she’s got the fellas covered as well. Unique tee-shirts, super cute golf/punk shorts and trend setting hats put over-exposed brands like Ed Hardy to shame.
Ultra-hip shop owner Nancy Kaufman has made being a brat into an artform. She’s been a punk rock fashionista since she owned the Na-Na clothing and shoe brand that helped hipsters make a statement for nearly 2 decades and closed in 2000. But Nancy is honestly the best. She welcomes you into her world and she won’t let you out looking stupid. And here’s the best thing about Brat….its affordable! I don’t have to spend a fortune to still feel like I’m gonna knock em dead.
Plus she has one of those stores where you could literally walk around for an hour and still not take everything in. Its the perfect place to pick up the perfect gift. From super sexy fishnet stockings to a funny punk rock baby blanket, you’re covered. Buy that sparkly spider ring, or that mini mexican-wrestler set. You can even pick up some bacon printed wrapping paper along with a kitch keychain.
The economy being what it is, its nice to see an independent store survive. Although Nancy has had to start selling concert and rave tickets in order to keep the lights on, she’s got no intention of closing those doors. She was born for the scene, and she’s an inspiration to the industry.
Next time you are in Santa Monica make the effort to go off the beaten path…learn to be a brat. 1938 14th Street in Santa Monica between Pico and Olympic. Open everyday 12-6.
Words by Barbie Brady, photos by Dustin Downing
