But if stalking posh boutiques on Fifth Avenue and shelling out $1200 for a pair of designer shoes isn’t on your agenda, then it’s time to tear yourself away from Manhattan and head to Brooklyn’s Williamsburg, where a whole world of unassuming vintage stores await.
On the weekend, you’re in for a treat as the sidewalks come alive with buskers, hipsters, street stalls and bargains. On around every corner you’ll stumble onto little surprises like super cute parks, markets, second-hand shops and great restaurants and cafes – and best of all, you’ll soon be the proud owner of a one-of-a kind item that will see you on top of the fashion heap…
Buffalo Exhange – 504 Driggs Avenue Williamsburg
Think you’ve seen a thrift shop? You haven’t seen ANYTHING until you’ve been to this famous vintage store. Buffalo Exchange is the place to go for that one of a kind pre-loved item that will have your hipster friends at home seething with jealousy. While it not be the cheapest thrift shop around (they know what they’ve got, and price it accordingly) you’re certain to find some gems.
Beacons Closet – 88 North 11 Street
Beacons Closet looks custom-made for the disconcerting op shop addict who can dedicate a few hours to gleefully rummaging through endless racks of second hand items.
Adele – 105 Berry Street
Rockabilly more your style? Then get to Adele’s – just make sure you check the opening and closing times before you tear yourself away from Manhatten make the trip over so you’re not disappointed!
Single Dallas –285 North 6th St
If you love to rock a vintage tee, then a visit to Single Dallas is A MUST. With an awe-inspiring amount of vintage tees scaling the walls and ceilings, best to tackle this one after a coffee or two!
Brooklyn Charm – 145 Bedford Av www.brooklyncharmshop.com
With a dazzling array of charms, jewelry, beads, and vintage broaches and earrings, Brooklyn Charm is a tiny shop, but is chocka with rare treats. They also ship around the world via their online store.
Markets
Keep a sharp eyes – open air vintage or "junk" markets pop up in the most of unlikely of places – especially on the weekend. NYC definitely rewards those who take the path less travelled.
If you’re heading to NYC, check out this comprehensive list of thrift shops and markets. www.allny.com/thrift/man.htm
But if the thrift store didn’t do a good enough job of burning a whole in your savings, then these outlet centers certainly will!
Century 21 – www.c21stores.com
Located in the financial district near world trade centre, Century 21 is a massive department store with designer threads at heavily discounted prices. Prepare to squabble with hordes of other tourists all swooping in on bargains like seagulls on chips, but the savings are worth it. Get there early in the morning!
Woodbury and Commons – www.premiumoutlets.com
It’s an hour and a half bus ride from NYC, but once you arrive to the custom designed outlet ‘village’, you’ll grasp the concept of ‘shop to you drop’. Puma, Gucci, Dior, Giorgio Armana, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Polo, Nike and so much more. Not for the feint hearted and probably best to leave the non-shopping saavy husbands/boyfriends at home.
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