On February 1, UC Berkeley graduate Andrew Buxton opened a brand new concept store in the Westfield Century mall, dedicated to sustainable, handcrafted goods from independent fashion and beauty brands, around half of which are local to Los Angeles. 

“Initially, we discovered new brands through social media and personally reached out to each once,” said Buxton. “Once we launched our Instagram account and had more of a social media presence, the dynamic shifted-brands started reaching out to us! While our selection primarily features American brands, we also carry a few standout international labels. We seek our brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices but also have compelling, purpose-driven missions. Our focus is on designers and makers who are passionate about a positive impact through their craft.”
 
Occupying a 3,100-square-foot space previously held by Lululemon, Atlas’ selection carries around 120 sustainable brands at a wide range of price points.

“Our first Atlas store is designed with a timeless coastal aesthetic to be warm and inviting, creating a space where customers feel welcomed and inspired to discover new brands,” explained Buxton. “A key element of our design is the dedicated plaques for each of our brands, offering a brief yet meaningful glimpse into their mission and story. We believe this personal touch fosters a deeper connection between customers and the independent brands we champion—many of which are experiencing traditional retail for the first time.”

From everyday and occasion wear by Surf Trip Supply and Aisol, to viral beauty products from Kikiz Cosmeticz and artisanal candles by Soleia Lane, Atlas offers something for everyone. Among them is The Lalela Scarf, a brand that donates 100% of its profits to Lalela, a nonprofit offering arts education to youth in under-resourced South African communities. The designs are created using Lalela learners’ original artworks, making a sustainable cycle of life-changing art.

On the jewelry side, Sky Metals Gallery was founded by a mother of a child with special needs. Seeking an outlet for expressing her creativity, she turned to crafting delicate, everyday pieces that allow her to also give back. With every purchase, Sky Metals Gallery donates part of its proceeds to the Hydrocephalus Association, an organization near and dear to founder Caitlin Campbell’s heart.

For those looking to discover a new cult favorite, Nhobias – a New York-based luxury streetwear brand is dedicated to bringing balance and unity to a world full of extremes. From everyday athleisure to an unexpected twist on classic styles, Nhobias is on a mission to raise the bar, pushing forward ideas that encourage critical thinking, dialogue, and growth.
 
Atlas, which does not communicate on its remuneration method with committed brands, hopes  to reinvent modern retail by bringing consumers back into brick-and-mortar stores.

“Each of our brands has its own online presence so by providing them the physical space to showcase their pieces and incredible stories in high-traffic shopping destinations,” added Buxton. “They’re able to connect with consumers in a whole new way that might never have been available to them otherwise. Over the last decade, in-person retail has become more competitive and especially challenging for small, up-and-coming brands. Atlas was created to be a springboard for our brands, enabling them to grow, gain valuable insights, and achieve the success they deserve.”

Buxten, who grew up in Los Angeles, saw the Westfield Century City mall as the perfect location for his concept: “Los Angeles is an ideal city for the launch and growth of Atlas. One of the global leaders in fashion and lifestyle trends, Los Angeles has such a rich network of small brands, creatives, and shoppers that are looking for fresh, innovative retail experiences. With an emphasis on sustainability and conscious consumerism, we’re bringing over 100 small, diverse, ethically made brands to high-traffic destinations. Atlas is offering a retail model that not only meets but elevates the expectations of Los Angeles shoppers,” the founder added.

Supported by several renowned investors, the Atlas project first won over entrepreneurship professor Umair Khan. “As a founding partner at Mentors Fund, [Khan] decided to back Atlas and became our first investor,” said Buxton. The project then received the support of another Berkeley Professor and co-creator of Guitar Hero, Charles Huang, as well as guest speaker and co-founder of Lime, Brad Bao.
 
Aged just 19, Buxton admits that his young age was not a problem. “Age doesn’t have to be a handicap,” said Buxten. “I actually see it as an advantage. However, I recognize that, to succeed, I have to prove myself and be willing to learn and trust those who are more experienced in the industry. While working with Umair, I discovered that I am the first student he has taken a risk on and invested in. He acknowledged that I am young and people will question, ‘Can a 19-year-old actually pull this off?’ Questions like these don’t have to be seen as expressions of doubt or hesitation. I see them as motivators to push the boundaries of what can be expected of a young entrepreneur.”
 
After the opening of Atlas in Los Angeles, Buxton is already thinking of extending the concept into other major cities like San Diego and San Jose, before bringing Atlas to other key markets across the U.S soon after.

“A core part of our mission is ensuring that as Atlas grows, many of the brands we champion grow with us,” added Buxton. “Each new location offers our independent brands the opportunity to reach new audiences, helping them scale in a way that feels organic, sustainable, and provides vital insights into different markets. We’re excited for the future of Atlas and continuing to support emerging brands on their journey.”