Market Watch

Nothing is better than a trip to one of L.A.'s farmers' markets, especially now that the weather's warm and peaches are in season; they're truly my favorite fruit. I wait anxiously all year just to bite into one so I can savor its tart skin and sugary insides. But aside from the produce, what's so neat about our city's markets is that each one offers a different crowd, a unique vibe and an abundance of smiles from vendors who live for freshness.

There's the Santa Monica Farmers' Market on Wednesdays, recognized for its endless array of topnotch offerings and constantly changing guest chefs who cook street brunch fare for up-and-at-'em beachcombers. The Tuesday Culver City market which is open late for post-work goers. And of course, the Sunday bazaar in Hollywood that fashionistas and trendy families with kids named things like Delilah and Finn browse for hours. But there's more. So much more. Here's a guide to my favorites and what you should wear to each of them because we all know there is indeed a dress code that Angelinos follow depending on which one they frequent! Happy shopping!

Sunday

Brentwood
Hours: 9:00am to 1:00pm
What to expect: Families, lots of strollers, overpriced (but pretty) jewelry and young, hip moms hogging all of the Hummus (grab the pesto quick...it's amazing)
What to wear: Something preppy with an edge, like metallic gold Sperry Topsiders.


Hollywood
Hours: 8:00am to 1:00pm
What to expect: Bold fashion choices, hungover twenty-somethings, amazing produce choices and incense booths
What to wear: A vintage piece such as this Prairie Dress from Ebay.


Tuesday

Culver City
Hours: 3:00pm-7:00pm
What to expect: Small but good selection, Rockenwagner goodies, men dressed better than you and health food options
What to wear: Funky Grey Ant Status sunglasses.


Wednesday

Santa Monica
Hours: 8:30am to 1:30pm
What to expect: Lots of charitable organizations, local chefs buying ingredients for tonight's dinner and made-to-order crepes
What to wear: A cute, eco-friendly bag. Try this Bolga Basket from Baskets from Africa.


Thursday

Westwood at the Veteran's Garden
Hours: Noon to 6pm
What to expect: Very little to choose from but oh-so-good produce and local professionals lining up for homemade pupusas, sausage subs and piping hot Yakisoba to picnic with under trees in the garden.
What to wear: If you're not working, something casual and comfy like Alexander Wang's
French Terry Tank.


Friday

Venice
7:00-11:00am
What to expect: More local chefs, delicious coffee and Abbot Kinney-aholics
What to wear: Planet Blue's Phoebe Sun Hat.


(Photo at very top from losangelesrealestatevoice.com)