Lindsay’s Desert Rolodex: Closet Edition

As a longtime Coachella Valley resident, I’ve tested my fair share of local services, ultimately landing on a tried-and-true collection of go-to desert fixers. Never one to gate-keep, I’m thrilled to launch my newest newsletter series: Lindsay’s Desert Rolodex, in which I’ll be opening up my personal rolodex to reveal my most trusted area resources.

In this month’s edition, I’m sharing my picks for the Valley’s best clothing fixers — think dry cleaning, tailoring, shoe repair, donations, and even custom merch — so you’ll know exactly where to turn for any and all of your wardrobe needs.

XO, Lindsay

RIMROCK SHOE REPAIR

I discovered Rimrock Shoe Repair a few months back via an online tip from Adrienne of Covet PS, and immediately headed over to see if owner and master cobbler, Mike, could replace the soles on my favorite — but seriously worn down — 20-year-old snow boots. Thankfully, he was more than up to the task, repairing them with precision and even adding an extra layer of tread for better grip. Fast, skilled, and affordable, you won’t find expertise like this anywhere else in the desert! Bonus: Mike also repairs leather goods, including high-end purses and wallets.

POLO CLEANERS

I was recommended this spot by a neighbor nearly a decade ago, and it quickly became the only place I trusted to care for my favorite sweatshirt, which, for some inexplicable reason, sports a “dry clean only” tag. The service is prompt, excellent, and above all, honest. When I finally asked the owner why my sweatshirt would require dry cleaning, she carefully inspected it and assured me it was safe to wash at home. She was right—I’ve been doing just that ever since! That said, Polo Cleaners remains my go-to for all my actualdry-clean-only pieces.

DESERT BEST FRIEND’S CLOSET

This upcycled clothing shop is a desert treasure with a mission of “empowering individuals through professional attire and career readiness programs.” Donations here largely go toward providing interview apparel for underserved locals on the path to self-sufficiency, with additional support including image consulting and résumé writing skills offered through their Bridge to Employment and Interview Attire programs. It’s my go-to spot for giving back, knowing every donation directly supports community members in need — and their fashion shows are true must-see events!

WINDMILL CITY SCREEN PRINTING

Need custom merch for your business? This is the spot to head! From tees and sweatshirts to keychains and caps, Windmill City does it all with in-house screen printing, embroidery, and metalwork. Inspired by the lack of local merchandising options, the company was founded by area entrepreneurs Glen and Ashley Coy in 2014, and is a thriving enterprise today, fashioning goods for such staples as Sunnylands, Pappy & Harriet’s and the Ace Hotel. I’ve had the pleasure of touring the facility and was beyond impressed by the top-notch craftsmanship on display.

TAILORS & ALTERATIONS

While writing this issue, I was devastated to learn that our longtime tailor, Emil Badea — whose magical fingers once rebuilt my grandpa’s WWII army jacket to fit my frame — passed away last month. Born in Romania, Emil was a master artisan and a true desert gem. His passing leaves a sad hole in the vibrant fabric of this valley. At a loss over his death, I reached out to Kaylie, fashionista and owner of my favorite store Kaylie Nicole, who kindly shared some trusted alternatives: Pepe the Tailor, Ralph’s Sewing & Vacuum, and Maria’s Alterations. My dad also used to swear by C & C Cleaners for his basic alteration needs.

Thanks for Reading…

. . . and joining me in celebrating the skilled hands — like Emil’s — that keep our desert community thriving. Whether it’s fashion emergencies or finding your dream home, I’m here to help you every step of the way.