Lakewood has a chic celebrity designer in our city
Pictured is designer Alicia Estrada with one of her vintage style designs.
For those residents of Lakewood that may be looking for a 1940’s or 1950’s-era vintage inspired cocktail dress, look no further, Lakewood has it’s own celebrity designer in our midst, Designer/Owner of Stop Staring! Alicia Estrada has the perfect retro design for any occasion.
Ms. Estrada, along with her 6 sisters and 4 brothers, settled into the Lakewood community when she was just 4 years old. Alicia attended Madison Elementary, Hoover Middle School and graduated from Lakewood High in 1989.
Alicia knew at the age of 16 that she had a flair for sewing, cutting patterns and making her own clothes. She felt it was something she was inspired to do. However, after graduation from high school, she followed in the footsteps of her siblings, she entered Long Beach City College (LBCC) majoring in business. Shortly after that, she transferred credits to Cal State Fullerton and changed her major to accounting. Her accounting professor took notice of her design hobby and advised her to study fashion. That advice launched what she thought was a hobby, into a dream come true! She decided to transfer back to LBCC and pursue fashion.
Alicia Estrada
Her talent and passion led her to open a boutique on Melrose Ave. in Hollywood, which she named “Stop Staring!” That was over 13 years ago. Now her sexy vintage inspired cocktail dresses are sold in 40 countries worldwide, and 100’s of boutiques carry her line. She sells over a thousand dresses a month. Her glamorous, contemporary dresses have been worn by many celebrities, including Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian. She has also been featured in popular magazines, i.e. Oprah Magazine, Bazaar and People Magazine.
Her success hasn’t changed her values; Alicia still loves the Lakewood community she grew up in. She says “There is no place like Lakewood, I grew up here and I will never leave. Lakewood is the perfect secret.”
Alicia has traveled all over the world selling her designs but still calls Lakewood home.
Many designers may lack their own clear vision or the skills to make well-made dresses, but not Alicia. Her creations are exquisite, and are made in the USA. They are guaranteed to last and fit perfectly for many years.
Alicia’s advice for young girls that have an excitement for the fashion industry is to pursue their dreams, enroll in a fashion program like the one at LBCC, and immerse yourself in study.
If you’re a teenager looking for a vintage, rockabilly dress for prom, or a senior looking for a classy dress for church that offers affordability and superior workmanship; check out the Stop Staring! Showroom at: 14023 Paramount Blvd. Paramount (213) 627-1480. Or order online at www.stopstaringclothing.com.
