Sequins of Dreams

Have you ever watched a black and white movie and wonder, “ Hmm, where do all these props end up?” Well, some are placed in a warehouse to be used again, some are kept as souvenirs, and some, become treasures. On the bustling street of La Brea, there is an old shop called Nick’s Metropolis. It houses some of the most amazing vintage collectables, especially movie props. And, it has an even greater story of it’s own. 

Nick’s Metropolis was established in 1995 by, you guessed it, Nick Metropolis. He has been collecting and selling all sorts of things from lamps, to couches, to statues, for over 20 years. Many celebrities have been spotted here looking for vintage finds, and Nick personally helps each and every one in their quest for collectables. You can spend an entire day exploring every nook and cranny at the Metropolis, and still won’t be able to see everything. 

I had the opportunity to style an extravagant sequined gown during my latest shoot in Los Angeles, and to be honest, the dress was so stunning on its own, it didn’t need much else. The gown, which is by OTTDubai, featured a long train with a wrap waist, giving it a plunging neckline and high-slit. It was covered in black sequins and silver sequins as a print, as well as along the hemlines. I chose another show-stopping element, a variety of oversized rings, from Russian designer Queensbee, to finish this knockout look. 

Ironically, when I was shooting this look, there was actually a documentary being filmed about Nick’s Metropolis, and I may or may not have made a cameo. I guess we’ll have to wait and see. Every turn I took along the path way of the metropolis felt like a dream. The surroundings, large theatre letters, mannequin heads, purple and red couches, it was incredible. I was definitely in a sequin of dreams. 

Photography: Anna Sandul