A Mid-Century Escape in Merchant Modern

Comfort and content live within smiles.

Such is the experience of Los Angeles’ Merchant, a quaint, curious but familiar store housed in the city’s Venice neighborhood. Denise Portmans, its firecracker owner, graciously allowed Merchant to serve as the backdrop for our recent shoot. To boot, she offered up her impeccable styling finesse blending our world with hers perfectly. Afterward, she took the time to share with us some of her inspiration and purpose in curating such a thoughtful and eclectic assortment of home items.

“I source mainly vintage… mid-century furniture, art, rugs and ceramics, though I also carry a handful of modern local designers’ jewelry, macramé, porcelain and wood sculptures.”

Her most treasured items are “unusual but unique, beautiful and a little different from the average store. That said, I’m mainly drawn to texture and color.”

“My mum was an amazing artist and potter. She was a huge inspiration and had a big impact on my taste and style today. She possessed a great eye and found beauty in everything.”

Her favorite place for inspiration? Topanga. “It’s where I like to go, to get away… it makes me feel free and inspired.” And what item makes her happiest? Rugs – Kilims, Beni Ourains, and Boucherouites.

“The only thing I wish I had kept — and regret selling — is a beautiful 1970’s Don Freedman signed tapestry – a jute macramé hand-woven wall hanging.” Denise may inspire her customers a little too much. But to be sure, you’ll leave Merchant with a smile and a promise of coming back.

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Get the Look: Tuxedo One Piece

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Get the Look: Weave Lightweight Poncho, Lafayette Pleat Pant, Triune Cuff

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FPMerchant-2

Get the Look: Eyelet Chiffon Maxi, Lace Shortie, Montana Wide Brim Hat, McCall Heel Boot

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Get the Look: Sleepy Saturday Top, Sleepy Saturday Bottoms

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Get the Look: Ride Into the Tide Tunic

Merchant
3002 Lincoln Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90405

Follow Merchant Modern on Instagram!

Credits:
Photographer: Graham Dunn
Model: Jessica Mau
Stylist: Denise Portmans
HMU: Kali Kennedy

Additional artists:
Sara Marlowe Hall  – art mix media collage
Erin Ferro – jewelry and macramé wall hanging
Rosewater Shop – mirrors

+ More fashion inspiration from BLDG 25

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9 years ago

I love so many things featured here! Gorgeous images. I adore the denim head piece and geometric mirrored wall hangings. Lovely xo

Warm Regards,
Alexandra
http://www.littlewildheart.com

9 years ago

One day ill take as good as quality photos as this! stunning :]

Shelby-Rae

http://www.thefernwehwolf.com

9 years ago

I love the color scheme of this post! Lovely photos.

9 years ago

These photos are so inspiring! And I’m a big fan of turbans ;)

x
http://bohomantic.blogspot.com

9 years ago

I always leave feeling inspired after reading this blog, the photos and the writing are both stunningly beautiful…
infinity of fashion// Lucy Jane

9 years ago

These images are breathtaking… and that model is a stunner!!!
♥♥♥
http://www.etsy.com/shop/flourishdesignco

9 years ago

Ethnic, but still chic. Love it!

http://www.safran-bolu.com

9 years ago

I’m a photographer, this is give a new inspiration for my job. nice!

regards,
Sepatu Kickers Wanita

9 years ago

I love the way you put together this outfit! Very chic!
Please drop by my blog at http://www.trangscorner.com to see my cooking and fashion posts!

AC
9 years ago

The outfits, the decor and of course the girl, are amazing ! Travelling just by looking at this pictures.
Love <3
http://wild-child.fr/en

9 years ago

Jessica Mau is one of my favorite FP models! Her face is so unique and I love her coloring. Beautiful shots! I am obsessing over those geometrically shaped – hanging mirrors. Absolutely gorgeous!
Gypsy Plunder Vintage

9 years ago

I just searched Etsy for geometric shaped hanging mirrors and found this amazing shop!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/AtelierStellaLondon
Thought I’d share it with you guys! :) Gorgeous stuff!

9 years ago

you used my mirrors in this photo shoot and did not give me credit for my work. please credit me!
thanks

Georgie
8 years ago

I am looking for the triangular mirrors. The Rosewater Shop site seems to be closed down. Can anybody be of any help in sourcing these mirrors or a site that features similar ones?

8 years ago

Definitely one of the best stores or LA!