The Montrose vintage clothing store Pattye’s Closet, which is one of the gems on Honolulu Avenue, was the setting of a special shopping opportunity for the parent community of Flintridge Preparatory School. Renee Davila, owner of the distinctive shop for the past 18 years, agreed to open early for the group of moms in search of clothing and accessories to wear to the school’s biennial benefit, dubbed “The Rat Pack Rebels.”

The theme evoked images from the era of the swanky ’60s – not so much hippie as the elegant (think Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn for the ladies, and skinny ties, wing tips and derbies for the men, a la Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Frank Sinatra).

The gala, which broke records in attendance and funds raised, was held in March at the iconic Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, and all proceeds will support long-awaited renovations and improvements to the performing arts classrooms and studios as well as the school’s theater and auditorium.

Davila’s shop helped clothe many of the event attendees in themed attire.

“It’s been a labor of love,” said Davila, describing her passion for the store and her delight in helping customers find exactly what they need, whether something from the 1800s or the 1980s, and whether that sought-after treasure is an article of clothing, a pair of shoes, a set of crystal goblets or a rare knick-knack.

Her devotion to providing retro, modern, or classic merchandise for her customers enabled Davila to open a second location of Pattye’s Closet in Highland Park. Both stores have the reputation for being welcoming and friendly and for stocking “everything but Tupperware.”

  Janet LAZIER