The boutique’s owner, said professional stylist, Gina Buccola, worked as costume designer wardrobe stylist for several television shows and with bold faced names she is too modest and elegant to name until 2009 when she decided she wanted more balance in her life, “working on a production requires 18-20 hours a day, five sometimes six days a week,†which left Buccola little time for her teenage daughter. “I had planned to only take a year off but then the business snowballed, first at my Santa Monica store and now here in Brentwood,†said the slender and chic Buccola, who dry cleans all items she gets before putting them on the racks for sale. “I love clothes and I think that how someone chooses to present themselves to the world gives you insights about who they are.â€
Buccola’s career switch is our gain allowing non-showbiz types to enjoy the fruits of her style sense at 3020 Designers where her keen eye curates an eclectic collection of clothes (new and gently used) and accessories (also in great condition) for women of all shapes and sizes.
I discovered this gem when a friend enticed me to take a peek with her after we worked out at Burn 60. While I couldn’t try on any clothing, (sweat is not a body fluid one should share with strangers) I did find a new wardrobe lover at the store – a pair of leopard print, J Crew shoes which I’ve seen on line for $200 plus but which my toes are wiggling in as I type for just $80.00, including sales tax! Yes, it is possible for one’s inner fashionista and bargain hunter to be satisfied simultaneously.
“I love my clientele and view my store as a way to shop for friends – new, old and soon-to-be†the way I did for celebrities in my past life,†says Buccola as she shakes her head ‘no’ over something I had admired. As I sighed and sadly agreed with the stylist, I realized that I would spend wisely – and could disgorge my closet of all those pieces I bought when dishonest salespeople were present – so that I could buy what is really right for me.
As a firm believer that retail is for ‘others’ 3020 has me in its grasp. I went in recently to leave a couple of items on consignment and told Buccola not to worry about sending a check for them when they sell – but to keep the money as a credit for when I find my next love.
For more information: www. 3020designers.com
