BEVERLY HILLS. One of Greater LA's premier retail destinations, Beverly Center boasts a level of shopping not normally associated with urban mega-malls. The 160+ name-brand shops include the likes of Hugo Boss and French Connection UK, while anchor stores like Macy's and Bloomingdale's insure that you'll find just about anything you require. Truly a local landmark, the mall spans several blocks in the middle of West Hollywood and boasts the LA area's only California Welcome Center. It also features a 13-screen movie theater.

DOWNTOWN. The downtown Fashion District has long been a hub of L.A.'s shopping scene, thanks to its variety of chic modern fashions and retro bargains. Tour the district's many areas ­ the 8th Street Textile area, where you'll find a variety of fabrics from all over the world; the Flower District (on 8th between Maple and San Julian Streets), where the early bird is likely to land any number of domestic and exotic flowers; and the historic New Mart (between Main and Los Angeles Streets), which serves as the showroom for myriad up-and-coming So Cal designers.

GLENDALE. Just a short drive from downtown, contemporary Glendale Galleria features more than 200 stores and restaurants. From stylish (Edo Japan and Sephora) to fun (The Disney Store, Discovery Channel Store, and Suncoast Motion Picture Co.), the selection promises something to suit your fancy. Spacious and well-lit, the mall's three levels offer a comfortable setting, and it's not uncommon for the Galleria to host concerts and other public events. Anchor stores include JCPenney, Nordstrom, Mervyn's, and Macy's.

MELROSE. A walk down Melrose offers the best glimpse of this vibrant city's styles, cultures, and people. The famous street is also home to some of the city's hottest restaurants, trendiest fashion houses, and best walking tours. The street connects downtown to Beverly Hills and cuts through Hollywood and West Hollywood. It's an absolute can't-miss for travelers seeking a true taste of LA's glam.

SANTA MONICA. Thanks to more than 150 high-end shops, Santa Monica's fashionable Montana Avenue is a veritable shopper's dream. Small, privately owned boutiques and famous clothiers checker this tree-lined strip. Plan to spend an afternoon perusing the likes of Three Bags Full, A.B.S. for Women, Alexander Zar, and Weathervane for Men. Afterwards, catch your breath over coffee and a pastry at one of the Avenue's many sidewalk cafés.