April 2, 2007

On Your Marks

Opening Ceremony Opens

Blow the whistle. Fire the pistol. Cut the ribbon with a pair of giant scissors.

Do what you’ve got to do. Just let the games begin.

Opening Ceremony, Carol Lim and Humberto Leon’s eclectic, international style lab in NYC, has landed on La Cienega. They’ve turned Charlie Chaplin’s old dance studio into a shopping experience for those who like smart design with a sense of humor.

Look for independent music, arts publications, home objects, jewelry, and their expanded signature clothing line (now including shoes) for men and women. Swedes like Acne Jeans and Minimarket share space with new additions (Topshop, Proenza Schouler) and vets (Cloak, Alexandre Herchcovitch, United Bamboo, Rachel Comey) alike.

Hansel from Basel, Katy Rodriguez, and Band of Outsiders are the only local labels in-store for the moment, but more L.A. designers will be pitted against New Yorkers in the arena come September.

Which gives you plenty of time to stretch.

You wouldn’t want to pull a hammie.

Opening Ceremony, 451 North La Cienega Boulevard, between Rosewood and Oakwood Avenues, West Hollywood (310-652-1120 or openingceremony.us).