ReTales: Jade Lai, Owner and Buyer for Creatures of Comfort

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Creatures of Comfort owner Jade Lai hadn’t planned on becoming a Los Angeles shopkeeper. She studied art in college, which has affected her taste in fashion. “It makes me look at design differently.” Carrying intricately structured pieces from Zucca, Bernhard Willhelm, and a bounty of VPL, Lai’s cognizance of contemporary designers couldn’t be more engaging. “I go by my personal taste, and what I feel at the time.” When asked, Lai considerately refrains from naming celebrity clients who frequent the shop. “We want to keep them comfortable.” How fitting!

Why this store, here on Melrose?
We’ve been here three and a half years, since May ’05. There was Miu Miu, Costume National, and Fred Segal nearby. It’s pretty central as far as L.A. goes. The neighborhood brings different types of people.

What’s been flying off the racks?
Isabel Marant.

What are you most excited about in-store right now that maybe isn’t flying off the racks?
Zucca knitwear, or Zero + Maria Cornejo 10 Year Anniversary dresses. They’re reissues of her best dresses.

You have $100 to shop anywhere in L.A.—where do you go?
Probably spend it on magazines and gelato from Scoops, or get some wine. I don’t know, food and books, basically.

Make it $1,000.
I probably would go to a day spa, or Sushi Zo. So good!

You’re having a bad day and need some retail therapy – what’s a surefire, feel-good must-buy item?
Martin Margiela for clothes. Anything at the Margiela store.