What is the Boutique of the Week?

With a belief that everyone can use a little retail therapy, The Boutique of the Week helps guide you away from the New York City chains and expensive designers and directly to the most unique and affordable boutiques in the city. 

Items
Search

Entries in Shoes (23)

Tuesday
Jul272010

Liana

Location - 324 Columbus Ave (near 75th St)

Going on its 29th year in the same location, Liana is a neighborhood staple that has been clothing the Upper West Side for generations.  Everything from cocktail dresses and blouses to layering tees and accessories, this boutique is filled with both trendy items and mature work staples.  It's definitely a spot where any age, occasion, or budget can find something.

The friendly staff is eager to help navigate through the numerous brands in the large clothing collection. The lengthy list includes Susana Monaco, Three Dots, Weston Wear, Michael Stars, Velvet, Theory, Elie Tahari, Vince, Rachel Roy, Trina Turk, 525 America, and Michael Kors. Clothing prices range from $40-$500+, with a significant amount under $200. Stock up on everyday knit and jersey basics in an array of colors for $50-$100, or find a unique piece for a special occasion with cocktail dresses ranging from $200-$500. Favorites include 525 America's knit military-inspired jacket for $158, and Trina Turk's colorful tunics for $248.

The accessories are curated to go along with any outfit, including casual Love Quotes scarves for $88, large leather bags for $140-$400, and suede and leather belts for $50-$200. The jewelry is perfect for weddings and gifts and ranges from $50-$200. You can also find necessities such as Hanky Panky, Spanx, and Calvin Klein Tights.

Liana herself is there to assist in finding the perfect outfit for any occasion and has years of following NYC's trends and needs that you are sure to come across something to add to any wardrobe.

Tuesday
Jul202010

Project No. 8

Location - 138 Division St (between Orchard & Ludlow St)

 Displaying a wide range of emerging contemporary womenswear and accessories designers, Project No. 8's European and American collection makes one desire the modern cuts and unique fabrics the instant one walks inside. Project No. 8's minimalist interior allows the focus to stay on the standout collections and focus on the handmade detailing and artistry.

The clothing includes pieces from Maison Martin Margiela from Paris, deconstructed products from Correll Correll, lingerie from VPL, silk tanks by Sunshine & Shadow, beautiful printed knits by Christian Wijnants, and flowy dresses and blouses from Boudicca. Ranging from $100-$500+, most pieces are hard to find elsewhere and one-of-a-kind finds from emerging designers.

The beautiful jewelry and accessories would add a modern touch to any outfit. The jewelry ranges from $40-$500 and includes everything from oversized wood beaded bracelets to long metal layered necklaces.  Favorites include earrings from Saskia Diez and mohair and silver bracelets and necklaces from Stephanie Schneider. Shoes from Maison Martin Margiela and Hope include sneakers, leather boots, wedges, and heels. You can also find sunglasses, hats, scarves, and hair accessories.

Not only can you find unique clothing and statement-making jewelry pieces at Project No. 8, but sister stores No. 8a (in the Ace Hotel) and No. 8b (a men's store in the LES) have equally amazing contemporary standout pieces.

Left image courtesy of Lydia Rodrigues.

Tuesday
Jun222010

Duo

Location - 337 East 9th Street (between 1st & 2nd Ave)

An eclectic mix of vintage finds and modern designers, Duo is a boutique for those looking for unique pieces from eras staring in the late 1800s to now. Each piece is handpicked by sisters Wendy and LaRae Kangas who constantly update their shop with vintage finds and emerging local talent. A cozy interior of exposed brick and refurbished antiques makes a perfect home for both vintage and modern collections, which includes 10 local clothing and jewelry designers that are sprinkled throughout.

The vintage finds range from a perfectly fitting schoolboy blazer to floral-print maxi dresses. Pieces start at $50, with most dresses hovering around $135. Since each piece is handpicked with care, there are no funky-fitting pants or overstretched sweaters, each one feels like new and would fit seamlessly into any modern wardrobe. Definitely don't miss the vintage shoes that line the floor throughout the shop and include great leather sandals, boots, and woven oxfords.

The modern collection highlights emerging local designers and includes favorites such as Keller, Dusen Dusen, Caycee Black, and Bodkin. None of the pieces are over $300, and most dresses are around $200. Delicate, whimsical jewelry by Nishi starts at $65 and is made of sterling silver and 18k gold.

Duo is a great place for perfect vintage finds and the discovery of up-and-coming designers that are chosen with a well-edited eye and flair for the unique.

Tuesday
Jun152010

ABK

Location - 105 Henry Street (near Allen St)

This tiny leather boutique is filled with hand-dyed and hand-stitched leather goods of the highest quality displayed in a wonderfully cozy space. Owner and designer Alya Kazakevich opened the doors in November of 2009 and has created a unique environment of organic potted plants and rustic country charm of found vintage furniture and well-worn home decor to match the supple leather collection she creates in her studio in the back of the shop.

The collection consists of anything Alya makes in her studio, including totes, purses, shoes, sandals, wallets, laptop carriers, notebooks and belts. The rich leather is worn to perfection and comes in deep chocolates to honey browns. The shoes are sprinkled throughout the shop and are individually unique - from laced oxfords to slingback sandals - each has beautiful hand-stitched detailing and even the soles of the shoes have amazing craftsmanship ($375-$450). The wallets ($50-$175), bags ($250-$550), and belts ($95-$145) are sturdy, soft, and are created to age perfectly with use. 

The leather goods are not only beautiful, but the hand-crafted quality and time put into each piece would make anything in ABK a perfect addition to your wardrobe and would last a lifetime. You can even see where all the work happens with sheets of raw leather and dozens of bottles of dye lining the back studio portion of the shop. 

The shoes are display sizes in the store, so Alya custom-makes each pair to your specifications, and can even customize any piece in ABK if it doesn't fit your needs.  Allow 3-4 weeks for custom orders, and hours are Wednesday-Sunday, noon-7pm.

Tuesday
May182010

Loopy Mango

Location - 78 Grand Street (between Wooster & Greene)


After closing their shop in DUMBO and weeks of construction to a beautifully raw space in Soho, Loopy Mango has reopened with a boutique filled with unique clothing, a large selection of leather bags, and a new love for rare vintage finds. Owners Waejong Kim and Anna Pulvermakher have brought their sense of style back to Manhattan and are able to house even more hard-to-find designers and accessories than in their old store.

The expansive space is home to a well-edited collection of clothing with new swimwear and lingerie additions, as well as a larger selection of bags and accessories. The clothing ($100-$500+) is hard to find in the city and includes items from Apiece Apart, Bensoni, Mr. Larkin, Hannoh, Laura Urbinati, and Minden Chan. Supple leather shoes, belts, and bags with detailed grommets, fringe, and zippers can be found from Piatonna, Il Bisonte, Trove Tkees, and Malena Birger.  Collectibles, jewelry, and a small selection of home goods start at $10.

In addition to adding more designers and collections to the new store, Loopy Mango has filled its space with antique furniture and interior accessories that are beautifully aged and fun additions to any home.  In the back of the store is a large space filled with handpicked antiques such as ornate French crosses, rusted New York street signs, and colorful bicycles.

Tuesday
May112010

Jussara Lee

Location - 11 Little West 12th St

In its ninth year in Meatpacking, Jussara Lee's boutique stands out in the ever-growing and changing neighborhood with her exceptional quality pieces, dashes of vintage details, and bold accessories. This small boutique is home to a must-see collection for all price points.

Along the walls hang ready-to-wear staples next to exquisitely hand-crafted pieces. Ready-to-wear includes amazingly soft tanks, dresses, and tees in reversible bright fabrics that don't cling and flow beautifully ($55-$110). You can also get shirts, jackets, pants, and shorts right off the rack. All have quality handcrafted details, including some of our favorite classic button-down shirts with vintage ruffle and button details.

The custom-made clothing is exceptional to say the least, Jussara Lee's impeccable tailoring skills can make any of her many pieces fit you perfectly with a wide array of fabrics to choose from. Bolts of fabric and boxes of swatches give you the freedom to choose and personalize any style. Her boutique is definitely the place for a custom suit, jacket, or dress, and even has a beautiful selection of bridal gowns. Custom pieces start around $700 and go up based on the item and fabric. 

In addition to her cultivated clothing, Jussara Lee stocks a large selection of shoes from college friend and fellow designer, Sue London. Italian leather flats ($168) and wedges ($312) are perfect for travel and come in a huge array of colors from classic neutrals to bold turquoises, yellows, and pinks.  You can also find other fun accessories including flirty hair clips, necklaces from the Amazon, and bags.  There is also a small customizable collection for men in the back.

Tuesday
May042010

In God We Trust

Locations - 265 Lafayette Street (between Prince & Spring), 153 Ludlow Street (between Stanton & Rivington), and 135 Wythe Ave (between N 7th & N 8th), 70 Geenpoint Ave (between Franklin & West St)

Owner and designer Shana Tabor creates beautiful pieces of vintage-inspired clothing and playful jewelry that can be found at all four locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn. The In God We Trust flagship in Greenpoint, Brooklyn includes both a studio and retail and is its newest and largest space. Filled with whimsical clothing, playful oddities and cheeky jewelry, these boutiques are a must for adventurous unique accessories and cheerful frocks.

The jewelry is designed and produced in the flagship store and includes mainly silver and gold delicate pieces. Every piece is worth trying on, layering, and admiring, and range from $40-$200+. Each has a unique edge, such as delicate gold heart pendants with saucy phrases including "Hot Mess" and "Wonder Buns" for $40. Hand-carved cuffs with owl details and anchor charms are $50-$200, and beautiful partially oxidized long chains with arrowhead pendants are $190. 

In addition to In God We Trust's clothing line, which is also designed and produced in NYC, other brands include Judi Rosen NY Denim, Eskell, and Church & State. Pieces range from $100-$350 and include great denim, jackets, skirts, pants, blouses, and dresses. Rompers, silk tops, and dresses have vintage vibes and modern silhouettes with a touch of whimsy and are perfect for summer.

Bags and shoes can also be found in classic go-to leather heels ($195), colorful flats ($80), and travel duffel bags ($280-320). Other accessories include small leather goods ($22-$125), hair accessories ($15), socks and tights ($20-$30), and fun retro sunglasses ($15). Men can also find clothing and accessories, including hats, handkerchiefs, suspenders, and cufflinks.

Monday
Apr122010

Dalaga

Location - 150 Franklin Street (between Kent & Greenpoint) - Greenpoint, Brooklyn

Opening four years ago on a sunny street in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Dalaga is the perfect boutique for affordable trendy items in a sweet feminine environment filled with chandeliers, vintage furniture, and great clothes. Ornate mirrors and colorful bursts of silk flowers frame a large selection of clothes and accessories that are both easy on the wallet and fun additions to your closet.

Clothes range from $30-$200, with most items under $100. Brands include BB Dakota, Ark & Co, Glam, Tulle, Aryn K, Blank Denim, and Flying Tomato. The carefully chosen selection reflects trendy contemporary styles as well as unique pieces in bright colors and patterns. The friendly staff are interested in helping you find the perfect outfit and make it easy to fill a dressing room with dresses, skirts, and blouses.

Affordable accessories are sprinkled throughout the store and include cute shoes from Chelsea Crew, Navid O'Nadia, and Seychelles. Charming jewelry dangles along the walls and includes chandelier earrings and bright necklaces.

Dalaga is a sweet spot for budget-friendly pieces that are both unique in style and high in quality - a definite must for catching up on seasonal trends and flirty finds.

Tuesday
Mar092010

Coclico

Location - 275 Mott St (between Houston & Prince)

Coclico is a beautiful open space filled with their own line of shoes, an expertly edited selection of cheerful clothes, and statement-making accessories.  The  incredibly friendly staff and amount of unique pieces stocked makes this boutique a must when shopping for everything from everyday sandals to a flirty evening dress.

The shoes are made from eco-friendly materials and are crafted for the utmost comfort without compromising style.  The Coclico Spring shoe line is inspired by the butterfly with intricate patterns and curved silhouettes.  The earthy color palette with splashes of gemstone hues can be found in the heels, sandals, and boots.  Fun summer flat sandals and heels made of high-quality leather range from $250-$450, and staple neutral boots range from $450-$600.  Mixed in with Coclico's own line are shoes from Esska, Argila, and Chi Mihara.

Just as impressive as their shoe selection is the clothing, including everything from jackets, blouses, flowy dresses, and chunky sweaters.  Clothing ranges from $75-$400.  An amazingly soft grey suede and mesh jacket from Iro is $475, a Twinkle by Wenlan dress for $350, a blue and white embroidered tunic from Paul & Joe is $175, and a versatile She Bible jersey dress is $150.

Other accessories include bright scarves from Yarnz ($175) and a large selection of leather bags from oversized totes to crossbody bags ($200-$500+) can be found from Paul & Joe Sisters and Great by Sandie.

Tuesday
Feb162010

Cry Wolf

Location - 111 Saint Marks Place (between Ave A and 1st Ave)

*More pictures coming soon!

Cry Wolf brings street chic to the East Village with a boutique filled with clothing and accessories for men and women.  A warm interior of brick and exposed wood beams create a nice backdrop to urban, detailed pieces from US and International indie designers.

On a street filled with shops and restaurants, Cry Wolf is a definite stop for unique designs, fun accessories, and shoes. Everything from dresses, blouses, denim, tees, and sweaters can be found from Quail, Christian Joy, Greyhound, Mary Meyer, Eryn Brinie, and Sunshine and Shadow.  Prices range from $40-$300, with pieces including a cropped black blazer ($140), flannel dress ($150), and silk shorts ($130).  Denim ranges from $65-$200 from Acne, Corpus, Cheap Monday, Denim Demon, and Nudie Jeans. 

A well-edited selection of accessories includes leather gloves, purses, clutches, belts, sunglasses, and jewelry.  Shoes can be found from 80%20, TOMS, Jeffrey Campbell, Creative Recreation, and Melissa.