Story & Lesson Highlights with Melanie Doshi of Highland Park Los Angeles

We recently had the chance to connect with Melanie Doshi and have shared our conversation below.

Melanie, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Thrifting! I LOVE walking the aisles and seeing all the amazing things, while wondering about the story behind the piece.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Born and raised in New York, Melanie grew up surrounded by the rhythm and energy of the fashion world. After college, she began her career in women’s fashion, eventually moving to Los Angeles to expand her creative horizons.

But long before the bright lights of runway shows and design studios, Melanie’s true love was vintage. During her college years in Manhattan, she spent weekends exploring the East Village’s hidden thrift gems — discovering timeless pieces, unique stories, and the thrill of giving forgotten fashion new life.

That passion never faded. Today, Melanie channels her background in modern fashion and her lifelong love of vintage into curating collections that blend nostalgia with contemporary style for Women and Children. Each piece she selects carries a story, a touch of history, and a chance for new beginnings.

For Melanie, vintage isn’t just clothing — it’s a connection between past and present, a reminder that great style never goes out of fashion and sustainability is the future.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
I think growing up in a blended household my father being from south India and mother American really taught me a lot about life’s values amongst different cultures
My parents obtained a workers permit as soon as I could start working at 14 years old and I’ve been working ever since. This instilled a very strong work ethic and strong sense of responsibility as well as financial freedom in me at a very young age. I value those important lessons and will make sure my daughters understand the importance of these lessons as well.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
The shop really took a hit during Covid and honestly struggled in that location ever since. There were times that I wanted to just close the shop but I thought about all that we provided for the community and I just held on as long as I could. Then after the writers strike and the LA fires we decided to close or move…. And that is how we ended up in our new home on York and Highland Park!

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
At the heart of everything Melanie does is honesty and connection. She strives to be as open and genuine as possible — in life, in business, and in community. Whether you’ve met her through the shop, her family, or around town, if you’ve connected with her, you’ve met the real Melanie. Her story, like her collections, is built on authenticity, resilience, and love for the people and pieces that make life beautifully imperfect.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Then, a recent health challenge shifted her perspective even further. It reminded her how precious life is and how important it is to truly live — to eat well, move your body, nurture your spirit, spend time with loved ones, and never wait for the “perfect” moment to follow your heart. That philosophy now runs through every part of her life and brand

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.Growkidgrow.com
• Instagram: Growkidgrowla
• Facebook: Grow Kid Grow
• Yelp: Grow Kid Grow

Image Credits
@comolaflor_photography