Like a Local: The Piece Collective
I don’t do much retail shopping these days, but I still try to support Venice’s small businesses whenever possible. I pedal our cargo tricycle to thrift stores and locally-owned boutiques when I need something for my family or clients, or even to just to pop by and say hi. Some of my personal favorites are Big Red Sun, Late Sunday Afternoon, Tumbleweed and Dandelion, Venice Plants, The Mart Collective, and Venice Vintage Paradise. Another favorite is The Piece Collective, which is a beautifully designed shop in an old bungalow located on Abbot Kinney. It carries works by some of my favorite makers and home brands, such as MQuan and The Dharma Door USA. They invited me over for a brief Q&A in honor of Mother’s Day— a preview is below.
Q: What do you find to be the biggest challenge of motherhood?
A: In a time of terrifying climate change, growing populations, sweeping violence, and general uncertainty, it can be an extremely intense process to decide whether or not to bring a new life into the world. And once that child is here, the task of balancing her/his safety with her/his independence is a phenomenal challenge every day. But it’s one that I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to face.
Q: How does it feel to be supporting brands that are sustainable and align with your lifestyle?
Whitney: It’s so important that we move beyond fast-fashion— it’s devastating to the environment, and even releases micro-plastics into our water supplies. But sustainable clothing needs to be made more accessible to all communities if it is to make a true difference.
It’s also my hope to help change the perspective that folks “need” new outfits for every year and occasion. I’ve embraced wearing the same garments repeatedly for shoots, interviews and events to help convey the message that newer isn’t necessarily better, and that a few durable and well-designed pieces (for your wardrobe or your home) can function with versatility and style for years.
