Meet Lauren | Owner-operator of Lauren of Palm Springs

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, what are you inspired by?
I am inspired by Old Hollywood women. I have always been awe struck by stars like Lucille Ball, Rosalind Russel, and Liz Taylor. I remember watching them with my grandmother and going through all her books to find everything I could about them. Their fashion was always on point, and these women could rock a caftan like no one else. Plus, they were so quick witted and had a rapport with the press that made me want to emulate them. This idea of living large and authentically came from that and lead me to share myself and my brand with the world.

What should our readers know about your business?
I found my first caftan at a vintage store in Palm Springs and loved it. Then after the lockdown, I realized that vintage sizes no longer fit me. This led me to making my own caftans, which was a blast because I could use any ultra-glam or camp fabric I wanted. This was the beginning of Lauren of Palm Springs. Despite the way it seems on Tik Tok (@laurenofpalmsprings), it has not only been caftans and cocktails. I have broken 4 sewing machines, lost sleep to hit deadlines, and have more fabric in my house than sanity. I had to learn quickly to set realistic expectations for myself and find a way to ground myself during moments of high stress. I have found that mindful meditation helps me to start my days productively and that time management is best friend.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Let’s start with the most important thing, food. La Scalla in Beverly Hills is a must visit. The atmosphere feels very Old Hollywood and makes me feel connected to the past. I love the chopped salad and the spaghetti bolognese, plus both go amazingly with a three-martini lunch. Jones on Santa Monica is a great date night spot. The ambiance feels cozy with intimate booths and red lighting. I always order the orecchiette with broccoli rabe but everything is amazing. Also don’t skip dessert! I don’t like pie and I am obsessed with their apple; I’m drooling right now thinking about it. Canter’s is an amazing Jewish deli located on Fairfax. My boyfriend’s dad always said that I was spoiled growing up with Canter’s, and that none of the delis in New York could compare. The matzo ball soup is warm and comforting and everything at the bakery is fantastic.

We are lucky to have so many amazing things to do and see around LA. The Getty Villa is breathtaking and transports you to another time. Not only does the museum have an impressive collection of antiquities but also the architecture is stunning. Everyone I have ever taken there can’t believe that a place like this exists in America, let alone LA. I also really enjoy the Max Factor Museum. I know, its touristy but before the Academy opened a museum this is all we had. Seeing the make-up kits for so many leading ladies is a unique way to look at trends from the past and get inspiration for your own looks. They also boast a large collection of rare photographs of the city which shows you how much things have changed in a short period of time. You also can’t miss seeing a movie at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. It is a unique experience will that always impress anyone, local or tourist.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Mary, my grandma was my best friend and confidant. She worked as a model and then in a high-end dress shop in the 1950s. It really was her life experiences coupled with her passion for Hollywood that made me so enamored with the silver screen and fashion. Sadly, she is no longer with us, but I do have a photograph of her in my work room. It makes me feel like she is here cheering me on every day.

Website: https://laurenofpalmsprings.com/

Instagram: @laurenofpalmsprings

Other: Tik Tok: @laurenofpalmsprings