Part of a shopping format that began in Tokyo in 1969, Comme des Garcons stores open quickly without traditional advertising and then close after only a year, the Los Angeles Times said Sunday.

Similar stores have opened and closed in Berlin, Singapore, Athens, Greece, and even Beirut, Lebanon.

Knowledge of the stores' typically hidden locations travels by word of mouth. Shoppers who find their way to the remote locales typically purchase as quickly as possible, knowing the store itself has a limited shelf life.

Tokyo designer Rei Kawakubo founded Comme des Garcons based on her unique approach to fashion and while her label has several flagship stores, she is known for her modern "guerrilla" sales approach.

"We have always loved Rei's aesthetic," Los Angeles resident John McDowell said during the recent opening of the LA store. "She never stops moving. This is going to be a mega Comme des Garcons."