"The Mother of all Boutiques" - Where magazine

Diane Merrick, founder and owner of Diane Merrick Clothing Salon is truly the mother of all boutiques. As a trend-setting entrepreneur she has become the quintessential Los Angeles "one stop shop". Throughout years of success, Diane has always been known for having a keen "eye" for discovering original, beautiful and unique designs and simply making them fashionable. But another remarkable trait she also possesses comes straight from her "heart" and is mastering the fashion of giving!

No one has a better understanding of Los Angeles fashion and the needs of the modern women who shop better than Diane Merrick. Born in Los Angeles, she was surrounded by the beauty and glamour of Hollywood and attended Beverly Hills High School and then furthered her education at UCLA. She has built her long-standing career in fashion by following what she does best- passionately shopping! From antique shops to flea markets she worked it. She recalls, " I was an inveterate shopper, I was always shopping! Every time I went to Europe I just seemed to want to buy things and then one day I decided I better go into business. "She originally started with a little store in Melrose in 1972 and carried antique jewelry accessories, furniture and art deco. Several years and a few store expansions later, Diane realized it was time to work harder and build the financial part of her business. After doing her research and asking around, she eventually introduced and offered women's clothing at her store. Diane explains, " I went to the (apparel) mart and I gradually met people and bought things that I liked ... and things that I though people would like, and I kept evolving, I kept growing and growing!"

At the time Melrose Ave was not the hot-to-trot street that it is known as today, but a sleepy street filled mostly with decor shops. As Diane began selling more women's clothing the area became a more prevalent shopping destination. The store embodied everything that was Diane as a person, with a welcoming vibe and a comfortable atmosphere. Diane smiles and says, "I like a very warm and friendly atmosphere, I don't like a hard sale, I like people to come in and feel comfortable. And if they come in just to say hello or to have a glass of wine..that's fine. I just want it to be very inviting. "Diane has always been on the look out for fashion trends that are unique and allow her clients to express their own style- whether in clothing, jewelry or shoes. Along with her own savvy taste and personal style, she also works with several buyers that bring her a young and trendy vision to her business.

Her unique bond with her customers has kept her on the top of the fashion map for the past thirty five years. In an industry where name dropping is a norm, and with a celebrity following that is legendary, Diane's commitment to remain true to her clients has afforded continued success for her in the industry.

In June of 2006, Diane celebrated her three decades in the business and moved to a new larger boutique in the booming Beverly Heights district. With hardwood floors, custom white mouldings, chic chandeliers, mirrored chests and a plush waiting area, Diane has created a wonderful environment to shop, chat and relax.