CITY GUIDE

Alana Hadid’s Sunny Guide to Calabasas, the Land of Juice Bars, Lululemon, and Yeezy

Gigi and Bella’s big sis shares her favorite juice bar, restaurants, and workout spots in the country’s Kardashian capital, which is reentering the spotlight thanks to Yeezy.


alana-hadid.jpeg
© 2016

At this point, Gigi and Bella Hadid are practically family with designers like Donatella Versace and Riccardo Tisci, from photographing their boyfriends for Versus Versace to staging frequent, snuggly photo shoots. As it turns out, though, there’s actually another designer the pair is even closer with: their big sis Alana Hadid, who recently stepped into the fashion game with Hadid Eyewear, her new line of sunglasses with their father, Mohamed Hadid. With names like Passport Control, Jet Setter, and Nomad, it’s clear that the first collection of frames is travel-themed—even if one of Hadid’s favorite getaways is only less than an hour away from Los Angeles: Calabasas, a small Malibu town-turned-hotspot thanks to the Kardashians and, most recently, Yeezy Season 5. Here, Hadid shares her guide to all the gems under the California sun amid the city’s gated communities, from its best juice bar to the local farmers’ market.

How would you describe your relationship to Calabasas?

Calabasas is one of the ideal day trip destinations for me. Just about an hour outside of Los Angeles, I go to relax talk, meet friends, and take a casual walk at the Commons.

What are your favorite restaurant there?

Topanga Living Cafe, Sugarfish, The Six, and Toscanova… to name a few.

Are there any local places to see art?

Though there may not be many art destinations, when I think of art and Calabasas it reminds me of their annual Calabasas Fine Arts festival each year. The festival welcomes over 150 fine artists, painters, jewelers, and photographers accompanied by live entertainment. Actually, this year marks their 20th anniversary and I’ll be sure to check it out.

What are your favorite places to shop?

I frequent M.Fredric and Diane’s Beachwear every time I’m in town. Also, the Commons at Calabasas is also a great one-stop shop option as it has a variety of stores.

Are there any good vintage or thrift stores?

I am a huge fan of vintage apparel and accessories. In fact, a lot of the inspiration for Hadid Eyewear comes from the revitalization of vintage trends. In Calabasas, I haven’t found a destination yet but there are many just 10 minutes away in Woodland. There you’ll find Juniper & Lane with adorable vintage collections repurposed as far back as the late 1800’s.

What’s your favorite nearby beach spot?

Calabasas is situated just above the beaches around Santa Monica Bay so you’d have to cruise up the Pacific Coast Highway to get there. I’d say Santa Monica is the best option nearby if in search of an adventurous day where biking or a walk on the pier is of interest.

Do you ever go to the Calabasas Library?

No, I haven’t been but meaning to because the exterior is gorgeous.

What about the farmers’ market?

Yes! I love the farmers’ market in Old Town, Calabasas. Everything is so fresh and the variety of vendors is amazing. From the baked goods to the selection of flowers, I always end up spending more time than planned there :).

Where’s your favorite place to grab coffee?

10 Speed Coffee is one of my go-to spots. I admire their mission to grow cycling culture but for me I also love that they are still one of the only spots to use micro batch roasting.

What’s the best place to grab a juice?

SunLife Organics has a great juice selection and smoothie menu. It’s a great place to stop for some fuel.

Where do you tend to work out and shop for gym clothes?

For fitness, I’m very interested in classes at Coolhotyoga. I especially love hot Pilates, which I know is offered there on a regular basis. Usually, I’d pack my own workout clothes, but if in need of something last minute I’d pop into Lululemon.

Are there any good bars or clubs for going out?

I love to grab a drink and even a bite at the sleek white marble bar at Salt. Kind of a hidden gem for a classic cocktail.

What’s your secret escape spot?

Leonis Adobe [Museum]. Not only is it one of the oldest surviving private residences in Los Angeles County and buildings in the San Fernando Valley, but it’s a beautiful place to just wander. There are gorgeous gardens, barns, and 100-year-old oak trees. I love to spend a few hours walking around in there. Warning, it’s only open Friday through Sunday, so it must be a weekend escape only.

Is there a local motto that you live by?

I’m constantly traveling for work so no matter where I travel, my motto is: “Be kind and open to every adventure.”

Will you be wearing the Calabasas-themed Yeezy Season 5?

Sure, I love to support different brands!

Living the Calabasas Dream: What Non-Kardashians Actually Wear While Walking Their Tiny Dogs

Photo by Harry Eelman
Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes

Photo by Harry Eelman.

Photo by Harry Eelman.

Photo by Harry Eelman

Photo by Harry Eelman

Photo by Harry Eelman

Photo by Harry Eelman
Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes

Photo by Harry Eelman

Photo by Harry Eelman
Photo by Harry Eelman

Photo by Harry Eelman

Photo by Harry Eelman

Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes

Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes

Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes

Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes

Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes

Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes

Photo by Harry Eelman

Photo by Harry Eelman

Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes

Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes
Photo by Harry Eelman
Photo by Harry Eelman
Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes
Photo by Harry Eelman
Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes
Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes
Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes
Photo by Harry Eelman
Photo by Harry Eelman
Photo by Nolwen Cilfuentes
Photo by Harry Eelman
1/25

Model Gigi Hadid Reveals the Secret to Her Signature Runway Walk: