I have been coming in and out if this store for years. I often stop by just to say Hey! to Mary and whoever might be on 'duty' that day. Mary, has not only become a friend; but her style and 'backbone ' are a welcome relief from the usual bland retail mentality. I see some of the negative reviews and I'm amazed because this has not been my or my numerous friends experiences who have been introduced to this business by me. Ce la vie! read more

DO NOT BUY CUSTOM LEATHER JACKETS HERE These guys have no idea what they are doing when it comes to measurements and tailoring and have terrible customer service to top it off. I wasted $1,600 on a leather jacket that's 10" too big for me and they won't exchange it or give me my money back. I stopped into the store one day, and a woman named Mary extolled the many benefits of a custom tailored leather jacket, mainly the specifics of how well it would fit. I bought one, and she took my measurements for it at the store. Nearly six months later it arrived and was WAY too big (see photo #1). We arranged for a return and she asked me for my correct waist size. I told her (and this is in writing via email exchange "I wear a size 32" jeans") and she assured me that would be enough for the correct jacket to be sent. Another nearly six months go by, and the new jacket arrives. And low and behold, it is again way off in the waist. I measured the waist (see photo 2) and it corresponds to a size 44" jeans. And now the store is accusing me of having worn the jacket and refusing to process my return, sent the jacket back to me, and refuses to answer my calls or emails. I spent a year dealing with these clowns. They are negligent and have no clue what they are doing. They got the measurements wrong not once, but twice in row! And now because they don't want to have to pay for the jacket (presumably the manufacturer is not to blame so they would be stuck with the bill) they are looking for loopholes in their return policy to stick me with the bill despite the fact that this is clearly their fault. DO NOT BUY THINGS FROM THIS STORE - THEY HAVE TERRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE, AND HAVE NO CLUE WHAT THEY ARE DOING read more

The Stronghold - NOT A CUSTOM FIT! - Accessories Near Me - Venice, California

See all

The absolute worst customer service of any retailer in Los Angeles. Ordered online over a week ago and never received a shipment confirmation. Buyer also beware when paying for a full priced item in store, they will tell you they do not accept returns for refund if you try to return it. Store credit only. The joke is if you look at their own store policy on their website, they can and will only issue a refund for full price items and do exchanges for inline purchases. The products here are great, but don't accept being treated like a sap by shopping here. There are still other merchants who don't treat their customers reprehensibly like the management does here. The real shame is they are doing an injustice to brands like Alden. This place truly doesn't deserve your patronage. read more

So I used to buy regularly from Stronghold when Josh Hurd was manager. He sold me a custom made Lewis Leathers jacket, which is just a great garment, and several pairs of jeans, usually in the 14-oz weight. Then a few years ago, Josh left, and Stronghold has since I guess changed denim suppliers. I bought a pair last year, and it was a waste of money. Heavy shrinkage on the first wash. Unimpressive. The staff I spoke to at Stronghold about the matter were unreponsive. Clearly, there was nothing they could do. So I have not returned. Now I get my jeans from Self Edge on La Brea. read more

They have great stuff here. Unfortunately my most recent purchase had a defect. When I attempted to exchange it for one that wasn't damaged they suggested I "google" how to repair it myself". They would not let me exchange. You'd think after you spend $1,300 in the store they'd have better customer service. Bummer. They even texted me "I understand if you no longer want to shop here" after I told them I'm a repeat customer who likes the store very much but this situation would undoubtedly leave a bad taste in my mouth as they are leaving me holding the bag. read more

I went to The Stronghold because I wanted to support a local business instead of buying on Amazon. I prefer to shop locally because I rely on expert knowledge and appreciate a good salesman to guide me through the process of buying something. The salesman I dealt with was rude and getting him to help me was like pulling teeth. When I found out that the shoe I wanted was a hundred dollars more than I initially was hoping to pay, the salesman told me to come back "when I could afford it". This was a truly upsetting experience and I will discourage my friends in the area from shopping there. There is a happy ending, however--I'm gonna buy the item I want on Amazon :) read more

Designer work-denim resurrected. Hundred year-old company is brought back to life by the guys who did the same for Von Dutch -- but who left before the ridiculousness. The jeans are EXPENSIVE, yes. I can't give it four stars out of principle, but most of you who are into jeans couture will likely gush and five-star the shit out of this place. What I love is the flavor of the store on Abbott Kinney. Straight up Film Noir. Brick building that used to be a boxing club. Fedoras and suspenders. Vintage style haberdashery with a tough-guy slant. The look and feel of the place is a must-see because of how this place defines cool for itself. This place makes me want to drink Sailor Jerry and re-read Raymond Chandler -- 100 proof Bay City. I can't help it -- I'm enamored with the people (Kenny Howard, Don Ed Hardy) but the commercialism involved with designer denim is tragic. At least Don shares some profits. sailorjerry.com and more details for the curious: ozoux.com/eclectic/archive/2006/08/11/the-hundred-year-old-pair-of-jeans read more

The Stronghold - Accessories Near Me - Venice, California

Absolutely horrific customer service. The lady working there was extremely rude. Online it clearly says they have a return policy with full refund, but apparently in the store they deny this. I asked to speak to a manager or owner but the lady refused my request. This is absolutely absurd. I hope the owner reads this review and learns how terrible the staff working in the store is. Also, reading other people's reviews, seems like I am not the only one who is having this experience. read more

Terrible customer service, not helpful or accommodating. Pretty overpriced for the kind of products and outerwear. Wouldn't buy anything from there again and definitely not recommend the store either. read more

No customers as we walked in clerk who claims is the manager did not want to help us. We were ready to purchase a few items but also sizes unavailable, wanted to see the look of a tshirt when we got yelled at for unfolding to see. She did not offer to show us also. She was doing nothing as we walked in but social media im sure. She was not helpful courteous or nice. As she had words with us she made no attempt to apologize or help us STILL in anyway -sad to say we left !!! read more

Does anyone know if The Stronghold will begin processing orders through their website soon? I placed an order for an apron recently and it was accepted. I realize this is a seriously hard time but just curious about what their plans are. Hope everyone is healthy and safe. Thanks read more

I was with friends shopping last Saturday. We frequently stop in this store but didn't buy anything. We ended up purchasing two cool looking vests. I had to return mine because it was itchy. Today, I asked them to do a return and refund and they said no refund. I wish I was told that when I purchased it. I would've taken more time making sure it was comfortable. Now, I'm stuck with something I don't want. I guess I can donate or give it away. The person that said no to refund was not very nice. Oh well! read more

Horrible customer service too cool for school Stetson hat wearing guys can't even say hello or greet a customer I'd rather have them force a positive personality then testing to hard in railroad worker boutique outfits. read more

One of the few places where you can walk in and buy Alden shell cordovan footwear without having to wait for it to be custom made. If you don't know what shell cordovan is, you don't need it. They cater to a certain "craftsman hipster" look. Think of it like going shopping in Tokyo, everything is super expensive but super high quality. read more

The Stronghold - Accessories Near Me - Venice, California

Like some of the other yelpers, I stumbled upon their store 2 years ago, looking to kill time before my brunch appointment...and I'm glad I did! I purchased ordered a pair of lightweight jeans from that day and they had it delivered within 3 weeks. Josh, who did all my measurements and helped decide on the fabric was absolutely wonderful. As a result of my chance encounter, I now own 5 pairs and they're the only jeans I own. Me: I'm a 5'8" rugby player with big calves and quads, but always wanted a slim look that's hard to achieve. They got it right! read more

I've admired the boutique portion of this place for a long time now, and I like the high-end dustbowl chic look they're going for. Yesterday I visited their upstairs music venue for the first time and was really impressed. Up a narrow staircase, there's a cozy, intimate space filled with comfy leather couches and armchairs and a cute little makeshift bar. Everyone who works there is really friendly with no attitude, and the crowd alone is enough entertainment to make it worth the $10 cover. From a crazy guy who danced his ass off to all of the songs to the slow dancing lesbian couple to the final band of the night dressed as some sort of deranged carnival performers, it truly was an eclectic group. I have one complaint, but it was a big one. Although I've come to expect that shows run behind schedule, this one was over an hour behind, and they allowed the first guy to go on and on and on and on (and on). Although he was good, the crowd was nodding off and everyone was getting cranky that they couldn't see who they had come to see. What was a great show was tarnished by our sheer exhaustion. I hope that the staff gets this problem fixed and then I'll be back for sure! read more

My wife and I walked into this store today and I must say that this was the only store in the entire block that the staff was less than friendly. Their was an awkwardness in the air as if they were waiting for someone to shoplift ...it was very uncomfortable to say the least. For starters, the employees are a bit standoffish not sure why but one thing you can be sure of I will NEVER return! read more

While I realize the denim is much of the attraction here, I am in love with this store because of its rough-hewn style, and what I take as a so cal interpretation of the classic Seattle outfitter and mercantile. They are purveyors of Filson, which is a brand I just cant get enough of, and which I wish I had more use for... Although I neither fish nor hunt, nor do I pan for gold, I still feel the need for waxed cotton jackets, and specially made canvas cases for all the gear I dont have. Stronghold is also the place to find a vintage pocket knife, a flask or a fine stetson hat. All the odds and ends that make a man into a gentleman... a gentleman who uses his hands that is. True, they have expensive denim, but you might justify a pair... walking into their back room where custom jeans are cut and sewn, gives you the feeling that these jeans arent fancy, they are an investment in trousers that may last a lifetime. I'm a huge fan. I'll be back for that Filson bag, or a real stetson hat. Stronghold, you make me want to be a better man... UPDATE: okay, look I know this place is cool, but their jeans are $300. Every pair, regardless of denim weight or style. $300. Seriously? This place poses as a sort of working mans establishment, but who is wearing these jeans? And leather work gloves (nice quality) for $50? Really? And custom boots that they order from Whites, exactly the way you would if you went online to Whites website... but you pay more for them? Why would you? They dont come faster or better made. Honestly guys. Give us a break! Minus one star: serious rip off. read more

I've been here twice and both times the staff members failed to greet me, my wife and her friend. I didn't even want to go in the last time but they did and it was the same thing. Hell, I said hi first just because I had to squeeze between the salesman and a table and I felt weird not saying anything. Both visits we went in the back room and the sales people just stand in the door way, watching silently. I like Filson and Alden but there are plenty of places to get those brands. The jeans are nice selvedge denim, but there's a bunch of stores and brands who make American-made selvedge denim for $150-300. I just have a feeling they'll probably be happy to have a customer walk in their store. read more

Stopped in today. The Manager came up and introduced her self and it was a delightful experience. Love the quality of the merchandise and want to buy everything in the store. A treasure. read more

I don't know much about their retail operation but this was a pretty great spot to smoke a Cohiba and sip on a Ketel and Tonic at the street fair yesterday. We started the day off with a college nostalgia fueled Power Hour at Lauren's and Ian's crib and made it down to Abbot Kinney for around 2:30. Monique knew the DJ who was spinning the Stronghold's back porch...there were probably a hundred or more people mixing and grooving on the back patio. I had the strangest kiss of my life waiting in line for the bathroom. "Hi I'm Dan." "Hi, I'm _______" "You're totally cute..." And we both kinda just went for it. And that was it. Nothing like alcohol to fuel some lusty and incomprehensible debauchery. I guess they sell expensive jeans. So I probably won't be back until next year :) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I just found out that there was a shooting on Abbot Kinney and California last night as the street fair was dying down. A man was killed. Alcohol was involved. It really, really, really sucks. read more

I bought a pair of jeans here 5 years ago. After four gears of light wear there was a big hole in them. About a year ago I took them back and they honored the lifetime guarantee when I bought them and sent them to the tailor to get them fixed for free. They did a poor job of patching them and they only lasted a couple wears before another hole appeared. I finally got around today to returning them to fix them for a 2nd time. The gentleman at the shop today told me they didn't have a factory anymore and would not fix them, not honoring their guarantee. I don't know if its a change in ownership at this shop or what, but it doesn't matter if you don't have a factory or not, you pay a tailor to fix them free of charge if you guarantee your product for life when you sell them. The people that own/run this place are not reputable. Be aware. read more

Had to post my review here, too, since most of these reviews are for the "Music Lodge," which has a different Yelp entry: Yeah they tried to get $15 cover out of us calling it a "donation" (we ended up getting in for free through a band member) then did the same for crappy beer (ONLY beer), $5 a can. The door guy was an asshole on a power trip, as were the patrons, in general. Then right after we left, the cops showed up and closed the place down! I feel bad for the people who actually spent $15 only to be kicked out. If I want to go to some hippie-dippy bullshit, overpay, and have to abide by a bunch of stupid rules (no talking, no flash photography), I'll go to Portland. At least they're polite there. read more

We suspect that the bad reviews here for The Stronghold represent a by-gone era in this amazing shop's history. We tumbled in there early this afternoon to check out the wares, loaded down with our luggage (we were en route to LAX), and were instantly greeted by Josh Hurd, the store's Director of Operations. We admit that we were more than a little trepidacious about the rude staff that many Yelpers have complained about. Nevertheless, we had 45 minutes to kill and a strong recommendation from a denim head chum of ours, so we steeled ourselves for a treatment of aggressive neglect and walked in. Fast upon his warm greeting, Josh offered us a place near the rear of the store to put down our bags so that we could browse more comfortably. Despite being primarily a menswear store, he didn't assume that we were only shopping for the CIS male element of Mixmaster M., asking instead how he could help us both. Not only is that the way it should be, it also makes good business sense. As it turned out, we were there mainly to check out kicks for boys--a healthy selection of Whites and Aldens are on offer--and Josh was friendly, patient, and advisorly without being peremptory. He also didn't try to upsell; to the contrary, when we told him a little more about the main function of the boots under consideration, Josh recommended a different pair that was closer to what was called for...and a hundred bucks less. In fact, when we gave him a perfect opportunity to sell us something else--"Do we need any cleaner or polish for this new gear?"--he said "Nah. Give me a call when they're good and broken in--maybe 8 to 10 months--and we can see what you need then." That's a terrific biz school case study response to a customer who's buying a luxury item. In our experience, Josh was a total pro, as was his colleague who was helping a mean-ass biker woman get her Stronghold jeans cuffed. If you've got the bread or the credit limit, and the will to get some top-flight new grolles or indigos, we say give this place a look. read more

Had a remarkable experience at The Stronghold. Josh was helpful courteous and made such an effort to make this customer extremely happy. Thanks Josh for your incredible products, I'll be back. John read more

I'm not sure what they sell in this place, but as far as hosting a party - they do a great job. I came to the Stronghold last night with him for the Big Moves show. The place looks very speakeasyish, which we L.A. people seem to like. It felt as if I was going to an old apartment in a nice tenement apartment. The party was upstairs. The main room is where the band played, with Mr. French and Uncle Garth on the turntables. There is a bar in the corner, and a few side rooms for who knows.... In the back is a balcony area and yard where you can smoke or just get a break from the music. There are beautiful sofas outside to make-out on too, in case that's what you're into... Lots of dancing going on, but the crowd last night seemed to be a "there to be seen" crowd. Thank goodness the band is amazing! read more

Music, Magic, and pre-WWII fabric! What a steal! Affordable and vintage, fabulous and original... Spread the word and support his incredible business and all it's unique glory! Just had the pleasure of meeting MIchael and his little dog, Charlie. Cool backyard, beautiful setting, great sound, world class music and a fun crowd ... What a great event! I saw the Leftover Cuties, Tom Fruend, all for $15 WITH AN OPEN BAR! Great venue - kind service, great energy, fabulous vibrations, and smiles abound! I can't wait until my next visit to Venice so I can be a part of the Stronghold crowd again!!! read more

I came here on Friday for an event so I didn't go through the retail space. This is a review for what they were billing as the "Stronghold Speakeasy." After waiting in line briefly, we went upstairs to a big open space with a couple of cubbyholes. They had wine tasting in one cubby hole, two bars and another table with wine outside. Now, this is a great idea! People always need more booze! Ha, and it was open bar for four hours. Unfortunately, it was packed! And although I love dogs as much as the next person, please don't bring your dog to a packed event where everyone is spilling all over the place. It smelled strongly of BO and there were long lines for the restroom. Escaping outside seemed like a better idea even though I was tortured by the smell of the little appetizers being grilled (who knew you could grill mini-quiches and make them smell like bacon-wrapped hotdogs?). Overall, I would probably come here again but man, Abott Kinney needs more parking. It took us half an hour to find parking. I would have been willing to pay for a lot but there really isn't anything close by. It was also First Fridays where everyone was hanging out on the street and it was jammed. read more

The Stronghold is one of the finest -- if not THE finest -- denim stores in So Cal. In contrast to other selvedge denim boutiques, many of whom offer only raw denim (eg., Self Edge), Stronghold offers both outstanding raw denim and several stellar washes. Moreover, they will customize jeans to the customer's unique specifications. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and, equally important, they bend over backwards to accommodate their customers. Stated another way, their customer service is outstanding!! I highly recommend The Stronghold both for denim heads and regular folks seeking a high quality pair of selvedge jeans. read more

I'm not worthy of The Stronghold. At least, I could never rock this style. To see what I'm talking about, look for Bill's WAYWT pics on superfuture. Really nice folks here, and they even have small sizes that almost everybody else has deemed unprofitable. The shop is a must see, but if you're ordering online, size down 4 on your waist. read more

We stumbled upon The Stronghold after a lunch at Lemonade. We were about to walk by, but the rich, deep, smell of leather literally wafted out the door and drew us in. We spent a few minutes in the store talking to one of the members of their staff and he told us about the history of the store (the brand had died out but they revived it in the 2000s), their product (started with denim ("premium" would be an understatement -- it's something like premium, handmade, artisan, handcrafted) and expanded into carrying a few other really heritage brands (from the UK, from Seattle, from Portland), and more. They had some really beautiful leather gloves (Mother's Day... Father's Day...?) and B walked in and started admiring some of their bags... but then he laid his eyes on a few of their newest leather jackets and oh man.... SO NICE. SO, SO, SO NICE. These are super expensive (not surprising) but I think pieces you buy at the Stronghold are meant to last a lifetime (or at least worn for a really, really, long time). A great place to peruse and a super tempting place to take advantage of having a credit card of two... will definitely keep it in mind when thinking about really nice gifts for B in the future! read more

I saw a show here last weekend and really enjoy the "living room" type feel this place offers. The selection of beers is somewhat slim, you're definitely going to have to wait to use the bathroom upstairs if it is at all crowded, but overall, the intiimate setting for seeing a show is worth it. I didn't notice if there is valet, street parking is somewhat hard to find. Make sure you read the street signs because a number of the nearby streets start ticketing at 11pm (oddly enough). read more

The Good: helpful staff, cool vibe, high-quality jeans. The Bad: I'm gonna blow all my paychecks here. My experience: I went in day to casually browse. I was greeted and we shot the shit for a bit about the store and it's history. No pressure. Walked out with a business card and I gave a half-hearted promise I'd return. Was back a couple weeks later, and Britney helped me pick out a pair of jeans to start with. Then we took some measurements, and off I went. I came back a week later to pick up the jeans but they were a little too baggy for my liking around the knees. So we remeasured and did another alteration. They were closer this time, but still a little too baggy around the calves. We did another alteration, and when I came in again they were *perfect*. I've gotten tons of compliments about them already, and they feel comfortable. The folks at SH didn't put up any fuss after I wanted them altered 3 times. Will definitely be coming here from now on for all my pants, now that we have my sizing down perfect. read more

The Stronghold is a wonderful venue with positive energy, based on my one experience there tonight on a weeknight. I think they have lots of singer/songwriters with backup bands playing there. I had a great time due to the amazing music of Nina Storey, and how great the sound was. Positives: - Great acoustics - Place feels friendly, like a living room - Comfortable sofas and chairs - No loud drunk people, since they don't serve alcohol - Free street parking nearby - Friendly, quiet cute dogs wandering the venue (I'm not kidding) - The stage and lighting were good Negatives: - The place is kinda small - I heard that they turn people away at the door if they want, by saying that it's a private club, which is probably true. - No alcohol - Ten bucks entry on a weeknight is a bit steep, but it was 100% worth it tonight, due to how great the talent was. We are blessed with great music venues and mind-blowing music talent here in Los Angeles. The Stronghold proved that they are participating in this scene tonight by showcasing the music of Nina Storey. Cheers to the Stronghold! read more

Fantastic merchandise, but the people on the sales floor are the most pretentious douches that I have ever met on either coast. At first, I thought the guy was trying to do an ironic impression of a condescending hipster taking himself too seriously. Turned out, he was not joking. read more

Walked in and immediately loved the store! Right up my alley, quality goods, Filson - which I love, all kinds of temptations. BUT as I looked at one thing after another, I found that not one item had attached prices. I don't know how that works for you, but I find it offensive. Is it "if you have to ask, you can't afford it?" I addressed my concern to the clerk, who basically stated "that's the way we do things." I'm not interested in having to seek out a clerk for every item that sparks my interest. Wastes their time and mine, and makes me uncomfortable to boot. I expressed myself to the clerk and walked out. And yes, I CAN afford it, but I won't be buying it there. If that doesn't put you off, they do have a great selection of gods. read more

4.25 stars. Other than apparently being an extraordinary place to buy vintage jeans, I happened to catch a show here as well. Sadly, I don't remember the name of the band (which hopefully will be fed back to me via other Yelpers), but it was an amazing set of country drenched tunes sung with indie spirit. The upstairs venue sported a semi-circular row of comfortable chaises to lounge upon while watching the band and there was ample space in the back for those who wanted to dance along to the music (which we did). I'd definitely come back to this venue for a show, and I would suggest residents to look past the boundaries of this jean store and into its possibilities as a late night spot for great music. read more

Confused why some of these reviews have nothing to do with the store on abbott kinney, but accounts of people's nights on the town. Overall, very clean, aesthetically pleasing shop. They have a dedicated theme and do it well. Absolutely uncomfortable sales experience. Walked in with my husband, no greeting. Nothing. No prices on anything. Which is just obnoxious. If the prices are negotiable, I might understand. But I doubt any of their $500 sunglass price tags are negotiable. Approached a sales associate to ask about prices, asking "excuse me, there are no prices on anything..." "Yes, that's right ma'am (in a I've said this already 100 times today tone... no eye contact), and literally as I was starting my sentence to ask about a shirt my husband was interested in, he ignored me and turned his attention to another guy who looked like he may've "looked the part" more than I did in my Gap jeans. The whole experience was humiliating and offensive. And we live just blocks away. read more

Really unfortunate. First time I came here, I got right in and watched a great band in a very cool, living room-like space. Had a great time and was excited to return. This past Friday, I went back because a singer I have liked for a long time was playing and I was excited to introduce this place to my friends. The bald doorman - beyond rude. Asked me to wait outside because it was too crowded upstairs, yet lets a huge group of people in right after that. I then approach him asking why I can't go in and he gives me some lame excuse and calls me baby (gross). I pass him by and go in anyways. At the top of the stairs I encounter even more jerks telling me that I need to pay $15 a person (no problem by me) and still need to wait until "Mike" comes and gets me. Then I'm told it's a private club (BS) and finally I get so sick of the run around, I left. My friends then went in a few minutes later and were told the $15 is donation-based? Unfortunately, the arrogance of Hollywood has leaked over into Venice and it's starting at this place. Save your donation money and take it next door to the Brig for a drink. NEVER GOING HERE AGAIN. read more

I've bought multiple jeans from the Stronghold over the years and have referred multiple friends. They recently worked with me to resolve a compliant on my end, and they couldn't have been more professional about it. I'm extremely grateful for their service and for their treatment of long term customers. read more