FashionIndie » Nasty Gal

Night to Day: One Beach Outfit that Keeps Going Till Memorial Day

Jessica Lapidos — Sun, 27 May 2012 14:30:05 +0000

If an episode of the Jersey Shore has taught us anything*, it’s that a night out at the beach can rapidly turn into the next day out. Can your outfit handle a night out, a midnight swim, and a mid-morning boardwalk? Try something like this.

*The Jersey Shore has not taught me anything.

I wear my bikini at night so I can midnight dip without reservations. My night may take me through to tomorrow morning's sun, so I'll be prepared to head straight to the beach. Chromat toes the line between playful and naughty, so it can be both cool beach-wear or sexy lingerie.

For a twist, get a single back-buttoned shirt. Let the sexy back of your (non-tied) bikini stand out. Turn it around to let the bikini show on a boardwalk stroll.

You've got a flowing shirt, now make room for the mini. Coming in over the bikini bottoms is a skirt, not with flare, but with prints. Its brightness will lead into daytime, while a simple black skirt still says "nighttime"

Find a low to the ground platform or square heel. Though you obviously take your shoes off on the sand, you want your heel to have the option of keeping it on.

Non-metal jewelry will ease the night-to-day. This Orly Genger necklace is made of rope and enamel, and plays with the concept of casual vs. chic.

roundUP: Rainbow Bright

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:55:28 +0000

Nearing the end of April, we can just about taste the rainbow of post-showers May. Rainbows have been on our minds and in our hair all year, and now it’s trickling down. And thanks to Christopher Kane and his disciples, we can all get a little taste in our wardrobes.

Chris K. revved up this rainbow trend on the runway. See which brands have thus been searching for this pot of gold.

Cigarette skinnies burn rainbow bright.

Be the rainbow in the storm.

Multi-color yourself in this rainbow raincoat made of recycled army parachute nylon.

Roy G. Biv gets all up on your body.

Set the disco rainbow on high.

Strung together sequins sparkle the rainbow 'round your neck.

This 4.5 inch rainbow will have you jogging with your head above the fog.

Gotta cutoff this rainbow trend at some point.

15 Fresh, Floral Dresses For Less Than $50

Zosia Baroody — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:30:54 +0000

Throughout the ages and eras, spring has always been about flowers. April do showers bring May flowers, but with less than two weeks left of April, we’re ready to get through these last few rainy days and finally start showing some skin. Here are 15 wallet-friendly floral dresses that will help you blossom into the flower child you really are.

Springing for Psychedelic Fashion

Zosia Baroody — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 19:00:03 +0000

Now that spring has officially arrived, people are ditching their black wardrobes for eccentric patterns and cheerful colors. So we’ve found some groovy psychedelic pieces that will brighten up your mood and wardrobe. Express your inner hippie with these warm weather-worthy pieces.

Inspiration: Dior Joaillerie

roundUP: 9 Non-Crunchy Vegan Bags

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:41:23 +0000

When you put the word “Vegan” before another word that describes a genre of clothing, it has the alarming propensity to become “Crunchy.” Thus, when it comes down to deciding between leathah dahling and animal friendly, the choice usually comes down to staying chic. So see these nine surprisingly vegan bags from more than just the astronomically stellar Stella McCartney.

Fringe flying, crying from the heart, it whispers animal-friendly and chic.

Black and white and green all over.

Stella's been cruelty free since day one. This chained faux snakeskin is as naughty as it gets.

Twisted pinned down fringe turns plum in the leather-free mix.

This structured satchel synthetically stands up cool.

No animals were harmed to make this Chanel-esque woven chain crossbody.

In the colors of those brave at heart, this bag is synthetically charmed.

For an equestrian vibe and another way to love an animal, this vegan crossbody does it all.

Germain launched her first vegan bag in Fall, and continues to experiment with animal free materials with the lighter Bow bag.

Style Guide: All Roads Lead to Coachella

Danika Daly — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 13:00:24 +0000

The road trip plans to Indio, CA are arranged. You received your wristbands in the mail this week. Now for the bigger task at hand: deciding what to wear to the three-day music festival with all the fairest bohemians in the land. From maxis to sunnies, we’ve compiled a list of our must-haves for the music-filled Coachella weekend.

Maxis and Tanks

The perfect combo to stay cool at Coachella is a sleeveless tank and an airy maxi skirt. Accessorize with a braided belt, cross body bag and boots. We love the denim long sleeve shirt above from Threadsence to cover up when it gets cooler during the night.

Cameron Floral Skirt, $68, Nasty Gal; Wreckless Cross Tank, $60, Nasty Gal; Harley Slit Skirt by Plastic Island, $79, Threadsence; Motel Denim Cutout Top by Gentle Fawn, $89, Threadsence; New Day Crochet Tank, $42, Threadsence.

9 Heels for a Sweet & Sexy Date Night

Jessica Lapidos — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 14:40:48 +0000

You have a date with a sweet guy. Needless to say, all of your friends are shocked (as would be mine). This is the kind of dude that might be intimidated by your metallic 7 inch Jeffrey Campbell Lotus platforms (yeah, we’ll see how long he lasts), but you want to have a great date in some guy-friendly heels. If it gets serious, you’ll have to either werq him into your crazier shoe collection step by step, or lead a double footed life. But, seriously, these are some sexy shoes. And if you can find a man that can handle the heel-less platform (which yes, made this list), hold on tight and turn him into your personal-street-style-blog-photographer-boyfriend.

Flaming at the heels, the snakeskin just kisses at the toes.

If you're more of a platform kinda gal, try these with the cutout ankle space and peep toe. Hopefully the giant wood doesn't intimidate your man.

The heel-less platform takes on a strappy deco that kicks up a sexy spring.

Men buy ladies roses as a romantic gesture. But really it's because roses are an aphrodisiac for men. That said, these Loubs should light up his libido.

Give him a pump of snakeskin on your toes.

Go nude... making him think of later on.

A cloggish peep toe stiletto with a thin snakeskin ankle strap and sharp heel will make him go b a n a n a s.

Tickle your tassel turquoise in this spiky strapped heel.

X marks the spot in blue suede and a sharp heel.

SHOE ENVY: DV by Dolce Vita Layna Glitter Boot

Amanda Gabriele — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:30:38 +0000

Throw on some Ziggy Stardust and strap these fly glitter boots on your feet for a guaranteed glam good time. DV by Dolce Vita puts the funk into chunk with a 5.5 inch heel here and 1.5 inch platform there to make you stand tall above the rest. Wear the Layna Glitter Boots with a mini dress or skinny leather pants for maximum effect.

And for $98 at Nasty Gal, they’re a steal.

10 New Year’s Eve Dresses Perfect for Popping Champagne

Danika Daly — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 18:00:00 +0000

In lieu of holiday shopping, you probably haven’t considered what you’re wearing for New Year’s Eve. Well guess what – it’s right around the corner. We know you’re busy, so we took the liberty of searching for and finding the best New Year’s dresses. Whether you’re ringing in the new year at a gala, house party or club, just add a bottle of champagne.

Ramsey Boat Neck Sequin Dress,$550, alice + olivia

What to Wear When Joining the Mile High Club

Amanda Gabriele — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:03:19 +0000

As we wrap up our month of travel at FashionIndie, we’re reflecting on all the things we’ve learned about jetsetting in high style. Perhaps one of the most legendary, and trickiest, travel experiences is becoming a member of the Mile High Club. Though we’re not experts on this subject, we know a thing or two about how to properly dress for the occasion. Here is the perfect outfit for getting down on an airplane; now all you need is an implementation strategy.

Don't kid yourself, pulling a shirt over your head could be nearly impossible with another body in the bathroom. This silk number features metal hooks instead of buttons for quick and easy unfastening. No muss, no fuss.

Not too long, not too short, not too tight - these factors are key in choosing a skirt for the ride. Something like this romantic lace number will have all flight attendants fooled into thinking you're a proper lady.

Keep your legs warm in chilly airplane air while avoiding the inconvenience of waist-high tights. The floral print on these thigh highs is sexy and sweet at the same time.

A chunky heel is no good for latching into small crevices. Luckily, United Nude's pin thin heel is both practical and sturdy - the designers are architects after all.

Mischievous eyes tell all, so you must hide them with a dark pair of shades. Don't go for something obnoxious - these are cool and incognito, just like you tiger.

Exotic fruits and sophisticated musks join forces for a modern, sexy and mysterious fragrance. Its alluring nature just might get you a Mile High round two invitation.

Ditch the Coat, Take a Cape

Jessica Lapidos — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 18:41:09 +0000

This is a call to arms, to remove them from the narrow shafts of coat sleeves. Let them live with the rest of the body underneath a cape or a drape. The shape is free and flowing, the cuts are crafty and they’ve got a wrappable capacity that keeps you roasty toasty. As they say, keep the chest warm, the arms will take care of themselves.

Multicolor patchwork in shades of toned down primary hues will wrap bright and warm.

Wool that ombres into leather makes this multi texture poncho snug the shoulders tight.

Don't be fooled, this is not a coat. Those armlets are actually a second layer of broçade that goes all the way around back. 'Tis primarily for fall.

Let the 20s fringe hang down, and the blue piping catch an eye.

Replace the raincoat with something sheerly phenomenal. Made of patent leather, it's totally posh.

Keeping the cape simple, this warmer weather mini cape will shield you from elements through November.

Block it out and frame the cape. Keep this one boxy.

This plush faux fur capelet will make you your own teddy bear, in caramel stripes.

This double sided cashmere throw will keep you cuddly inside and out.

Thin faux fur cascades to a point.

The trench got some werq done. Sleeves begone, behold a cape.

Through the fall it'll suffice as a full on jacket, but layer it over your coat come the deep cold.

8 Pairs of Shoes That Guarantee Runway Disasters

Amanda Gabriele — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 20:14:12 +0000

A little spill here and there during Fashion Week is inevitable. All it takes is an outrageous pair of shoes, maybe in a size too big, and a clumsy model on an off-day for catastrophe to rear its graceless head. A tumble can ruin an amateur’s career or make a veteran look like an a-hole. Whatever the situation, falling is no picnic. But pain is beauty and it takes courage to walk safely in a shocking shoe design. For your shoe-porn pleasure, these 8 pairs of shoes are not merely fantastic, they guarantee runway disasters.

Ice isn't necessary to fall on your face in these thrilling boots. Put a 6 1/2 inch stiletto heel on a curved metal bottom and expect to slip. At least the soles are rubber.

Supposedly these are easy to walk in, but we have our doubts. Hear ankles go snap, crackle, pop as legs forget they are actually walking on alien geometry. Whatever, we're still brave enough to try them.

Don't lean back... at all. Walk on 8 inches of air and you may go flying, even though we trust JC with our gams always.

Go Go Gadget Shoes. You better plan on moon walking after stepping up on 26 inches because treading in the gravity-filled atmosphere is not a wise choice. If you're a professional stilt walker in the circus, we dare you.

All sorts of rain? More like all sorts of pain when one of these Urushi lacquered horn heels goes right through your flesh. Sorry, it's gross but true, even though these foot sculptures are true works of art.

You know times are tough when they're snatching the heels right out from under us. Channel your inner ballerina and walk on your toes, or this angelic-looking pair could turn on you.

Just hand me a sheet of the scrap metal over there. Yeah, that will do for these. One misstep and these paper thin plane heels could wobble right out from underneath you.

Roll on in, right into your grave with this humongous wooden geometry experiment. The glue holding the bootie to the platform looks mighty shady - don't step on broken glass when your toes have to fend for themselves.

Carine Roitfeld’s Barneys Lookbook For Less

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:46:27 +0000

While she is no longer the editrice of Vogue Paris, Carine Roitfeld is still turning it out, now on her own terms. In her latest project, she styled the Barneys lookbook, gathering a collection of werqing women that move her, and dressed them in that way that made French Vogue so epic. Here, we’ve taken five of our favorite looks and (though we’d love to go to Barneys for them, a. these pieces are not available online, and b. pshh we wish) found their essences for less.

Izabel Goulart, a Brazilian model whom Carine discovered at the Victoria’s Secret fashion show, turns it in a Mugler top.

For a cut-out zig, zag into this ribboned and mesh-topped tunic from Topshop for $66.

For the zag on a long sleeve shirt, check out what Karl Lagerfeld did for Macy’s for $99. Pair it with Tom Ford sunglasses for a killer downtown look.

Olympia Scarry in Haider Ackermann

Fei Fei Sun in Bottega Veneta

Crystal Renn in L'Wren Scott

Mary Frey in Stella McCartney

Saskia de Brauw in Nina Ricci

Victoire de Castellane in Azzedine Alaïa

Malgosia Bela in Celine

Vanessa Traina in Altuzarra

Joan Smalls in Commes des Garçons and Gianvito Rossi

Marie Agnes Gillot in Ann Demeulemeester

Theodora Richards in Rodarte

Izabel Goulart in Mugler and Gianvito Rossi

Dasha Zhukova in Proenza Schouler

Daphne Groeneveld in Rochas

China Chow in Giambattista Valli

Bambou in Lanvin

Melanie Huynh in Yves Saint Laurent

Alexandra Richards in Maison Martin Margiela

Jessica Hart in Marc Jacobs

Carolyn Murphy in Marni and Gianvito Rossi

Marie-Amélie Sauvé in Balenciaga

Giovanna Battaglia in Junya Watanabe

Naomi Cambell in Fendi

Acidic Substances Seep Into Stores

Jessica Lapidos — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:05:05 +0000

Acid drenched the Fall runways and it’s seeping into our clothes. This washed out lemon yellow is the brightest hue to squeeze it’s way into stores – it’s sunflower sweet but slightly sour. Shop the shocking color here.

Designer round up, left to right:

Aquilano e Rimondi, Jil Sander, Alexandre Herchcovitch, Jason Wu, Paul Costelloe, Kimberly Ovitz

Want acidic sunflower in your closet? Check out these subtly singeing pieces.

8 Stunning Sunglasses That Come Full Circle

Jessica Lapidos — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 12:28:56 +0000

Round frames are sensational. It’s not really news. John Lennon lived in them. Lady Gaga dons the very best of them. We love them and have already been dabbling. Here I’ve scouted 8 sunglasses that will pop your peepers in a circular motion. OO that feels good.

15 Patriotic Pieces We Love

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:44:11 +0000

Too much patriotism can come off as daunting, especially when literally wearing your heart for America on your sleeve. But when done right, one piece at a time, some stars, stripes, red, white and blue can look fantastic. Here are the top 15 patriotic pieces we love right now during our month of Americana.

ASOS Stars And Stripes Print Scarf $25.86 – This lightweight woven scarf has a vintage feel, especially when tied in your hair.

Indie Intern Birthday Wishlist

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 31 May 2011 22:35:36 +0000

Meet our newest indie intern, we call her Social Media Sara. Today was her very first day and also her birthday! She moved to Manhattan on Saturday all the way from Michigan AND she turned 21 today. It’s a good day to be Social Media Sara. We welcomed her and sang her birthday in with itty bitty cupcakes and a bag full o’ swag. But Sara still wanted more, and so she picked out 10 items that would make her birthday all the sweeter.

Birthday Wishlist, straight from the heart of Social Media Sara:

1. Jeffrey Campbell Brown Distressed Litas – Platform pumps for adventures to run around the city in.

2. Klimt ‘The Kiss‘ Blankbook – Safe keeping mixed abyss of inspiration, notes, poems, sketches… my life in dissolved in pages.

3. Louise Manna Body Chain – Necklace for the whole bod.

4. Lomography Diana + Dreamer Camera – Vintage inspired pics, drool-worthy mint color.

5. Nasty Gal Ink Velvet Turband – Everyone needs at least one good turban, why not make it velvet, mmmm.

6. Topshop Scallop Hem Suede Shorts – Staple for music fest filled summer.

7. BCBG Thalia Deep V-Neck Jumpsuit – More function than a dress, less fuss than pants.

8. Skull Candy brown Aviator Headphones – Never let the beat stop, Fashion Indie Mixtape 3, that is!

9. Karen Millen Tribal Print Clutch – Tiny bag of funk.

10. American Apparel Long Accordion-Pleat Skirt – I could twirl in this for days. [She's got good taste. I own this, too! Yes, twirling is delightful in such a skirt.]

Kind souls, friends of Sara, and intern sympathizers, send all gifts to the FashionIndie office. To inquire about size and/or general birthday merriment tweet @SaraNiezgoda.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Dress Your Memorial Day BBQ Bright

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 26 May 2011 18:45:19 +0000

Be the hostess with the mostest or the best dressed guest this weekend. If you’re BBQing about this Memorial Day, check this guide to ring in the warm in style.Warning – if you’re country clubbing, you might need some more coverage. But as this is FashionIndie, we’re going to guess you’re grilling on your rooftop (maybe illegally), possibly in the East Village, probably in Brooklyn. If you’re lucky, you’ll be near a body of water. If so, slip a bikini under it all.

The weatherman is calling for mid 80s and sunny all weekend long!!

Keep it short.

*Bright striped high rise jean shorts: MinkPink

*Crop the button up shirt in shades of cerulean: Miss Selfridge

*Instead of a bra, have a small layer that welcomes unbuttoning: Topshop

*Shield the sun, but really look totally stuns in a wide patterned brim: Missoni

*Keep the shades clear and a touch catty: Cutler and Gross

*Rock the rope necklace to play with light: Proenza Schouler

*Cork wrapped in tie dye denim gives the leg a bit of coverage: Eight Twenty

Set the table bright:

*Recycled and speckled like confetti, these unbreakable dishes will make a splash. Zak Designs

*Memorial Day margaritas? Make it colorful and shatter resistant: William Sonoma

*Portable grill for guerilla grilling: Crate and Barrel

Now throw on the FashionIndie Mixtape Volume 3 and you’ve got yourself a poppin’ BBQ.

Best Outfits for the Best Outdoor Brunch Spots in NYC

Amanda Gabriele — Tue, 24 May 2011 19:51:26 +0000

If you live in New York City, you know the best part of Saturday and Sunday afternoon is basking in the warm sunlight with great food and strong drinks. If you’re not a fan of brunch, you apparently live in the wrong city – on every block there is at least one place you can get Eggs Benedict and a Bloody Mary to stave off hangover blues. As warm weather nears, more restaurants are opening their walls and outdoor seating for your enjoyment. But what to wear to this fabulous, yet casual occasion? Our guide below tells you how to dress for our favorite brunch spots in NYC.

The spot
Il Bastardo, Chelsea

What to wear
Gap Jersey Maxi Dress $69.95, gap.com

A|X Armani Exchange Aviator Sunglasses $65, macys.com

French Connection Cleo’s Haze Clutch $158, usa.frenchconnection.com

Calvin Klein Blaire Wedge Espadrille $93.50, piperlime.gap.com

Lynn Ban Fintail Ring $1,600, kirnazabete.com

Topshop Moto White Denim Crop Jacket $80, us.topshop.com

What to order
Eggs Benedict with Imported Prosciutto and unlimited champagne

The spot
Southern Hospitality, Upper East Side

What to wear
Topshop Red Stripe Suntop $50, us.topshop.com

Gap High-Waisted Flare Jeans $69.95, gap.com

Diane Von Furstenberg Theia Caged Wedge Sandal $275, farfetch.com

American Eagle Outfitters Braided Skinny Belt $19.50, ae.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs Oversized Aviator $98, piperlime.gap.com

What to order
The classic BBQ Combo and a Mint Julep

The spot
Caracas Brooklyn, Williamsburg

What to wear
Topshop Yellow Mini Floral Print Dress $80, us.topshop.com

Tom Binns Ethno Teknik Hand-Painted Swarovski Crystal Necklace $2,175, net-a-porter.com

kate spade new york “Make Waves” Bangle $78, nordstrom.com

Sonia Rykiel Dalya Platform Sandal $1,087, shopsavannahs.com

Malababa Pocahontas Bag $395, calypsostbarth.com

Illesteva Leonard 3 Sunglasses $230, lagarconne.com

What to order
Llanera Arepa with a Tropical Bloody Mary

The Spot
Juliette, Williamsburg

What to wear
Nasty Gal Flora Sweetheart Romper $68, shopnastygal.com

Reiss Classic Two Button Blazer $320, reissonline.com

Michael Kors Darrington Flap Hobo $895, neimanmarcus.com

French Connection Jakoba Platform Mule Espadrille $138, fashionbeans.com

Bonamano & Ferrari Rhinestone Bracelet $138, amrag.com

Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Sunglasses $145, swell.com

What to order
Roasted Banana Stuffed French Toast and a JOiE DE ViVRE

Did we miss anything? What is your favorite brunch spot in NYC?

How To Hide & Shape the Tummy Without Anyone Noticing

Amanda Gabriele — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 14:00:31 +0000

It has been called many things over the years – pooch, beer belly, gut, FUPA, muffin top. No matter the name, having a little extra pudge in the stomach area is somewhat inevitable unless you eat nothing and work out a grillion hours a week. If you don’t have time for this nonsense, we have some solutions for you. Here are six ways you can hide and shape the tummy under spring clothing.

1. Invest in a tent: Not to camp in silly, to wear! Tent dresses are the best fat day cures in the whole entire world. Just make sure it fits you well through the chest and arms to avoid looking like you’re wearing an actual tent; that’s when this look becomes unflattering. Above: MinkPink Table Manners Dress $88, shopnastygal.com

2. Wear pants at your actual waist: Here’s the thing, low rise pants are not flattering if you carry extra weight in your stomach. Try a pair of high-waisted pants that sit at your natural waist, the smallest part of your stomach. Adding a wide leg is even better – it’s like distributing that weight downward to even-out your figure and make you look taller. Above: Milly Woolen High Waisted Trousers $328, julesb.co.uk

3. Opt for an empire waist: When the waist of a dress sits above your natural waist and flows into an A-line skirt, it draws attention up and away from your problem area. Choose a dress with a structured, well-fitting top in a fabric that isn’t clingy. Above: Marchesa Empire Silk Chiffon Gown $5,821, boutique1.com

4. Go vintage shopping: They don’t make ‘em like they used to, that’s for sure. In an age of fast fashion and mass produced everything, garments are not made of the same high quality they once were. Dresses from the 50s and 60s were tailored to actually fit a woman’s body correctly and give her a waist. Try on some different options and find what looks best on you, but dresses from the 50s, 60s and 80s are good places to start. Above: Vintagephilosophy 1950s NEW LOOK Cocktail Dress $159, etsy.com

5. Buy a bra that fits: And no excuses! As an intimate apparel industry veteran, I can’t tell you how many women I’ve heard say “this new bra changed my life.” A proper fitting bra lifts and separates to give you the shapely figure you deserve. It also improves posture and, I guarantee, confidence that will be noticed by everyone. Stop by a department store with a good intimate apparel department, and someone can measure and help you find the perfect fit. Above: Betsey Johnson Stocking Stripe Lightly Lined Demi Bra $48, betseyjohnson.com

6. Cute shapewear won’t kill you: Shapewear – UGH what a gross word, right? Well, it doesn’t have to be. Shaping and smoothing garments have come a long way since girdles, as many of them can pass for regular clothing. Smoothing and shaping tanks with a touch of lace look like normal slips or camis, so you don’t need to worry about being frumpy when removing your clothes. Above: Shapeez Tankee Long $ 85, unbelievabra.com

What are your tips for hiding a tummy under light spring clothing?

The Top 10 Vintage Haunts In NYC That Won’t Rob You Blind

Amanda Gabriele — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 22:04:03 +0000

I have to sympathize with New Yorkers who don’t know how to thrift. If you’re paying $100 for a no-name sundress or $80 for Doc Martens riddled with holes, you’re doing a poor job. As a child born and bred in the Midwest, I learned that 80s beaded silk evening gowns should cost $15 and vintage Fendi bags should only set you back $30. So in a city of extremely overpriced vintage stores, what’s a girl (or guy) to do? Take it from the master and check out my top 10 vintage spots in New York City where you can get the best merchandise for the lowest prices.

1. Loveday 31, Astoria
Owner and curator Ivona Bilicic knows her stuff – she used to be a buyer at famous rip-off Manhattan vintage store Screaming Mimi’s. But the merchandise at Loveday 31 is far from overpriced and much more carefully selected. Eccentric metallic shirts from the 80s share a rack with silk Givenchy shirts and Prada dresses. Uniquely shaped vintage bags are shown among locally designed jewelry and antique brooches. I recently bought a black, intricately knit shirt with metallic silver threads and 7-inch long fringe for $40.

Credit: Free Williamsburg

2. Beacon’s Closet, Williamsburg & Park Slope
Perhaps the most well-known local Brooklyn thrift store chain, Beacon’s Closet has something for everyone. Both locations have their fine points: the more-crowded Williamsburg store has about four times the merchandise ranging from beat-up tees to Pucci pumps while the slightly more refined selection at Park Slope requires less digging and waiting. Some of my best buys include an $18 Marc by Marc Jacobs sweater and $18 brand new Betseyville shoes.

3. Buffalo Exchange, Williamsburg
You won’t find a ton of vintage merchandise at Buffalo Exchange, but you might come across some cool new digs along the way. Designer denim for men and women usually costs less than $20 and a brand new chunky necklace will set you back about $8. There are great vintage finds too, like a pair of Marc Jacobs sandals I bought for $24 a couple years ago.

4. Housing Works, Upper East Side
Where do all of the wealthy UES women take their Ferragamos and Pradas when they don’t want them any more? Housing Works, of course. In my opinion, this location is the best of the 10 retail stores around the city. There aren’t a million downtown vintage hunters in your face, and the merchandise comes straight from Park and Madison Avenues. It also has the best vintage jewelry selection - I have at least a dozen pieces from my summer living in the same neighborhood.

5. Monk Vintage, Williamsburg
Where can you buy a rainbow striped bow tie, cummerbund and pocket square matching set? Monk Vintage in Brooklyn has about 10 for you to choose from. From the tutus suspended from the ceiling to mounds of vintage jewelry, you will find super fun and unique vintage pieces here. Dresses run from around $25 – $40 while a full suit will cost you about $100. Everything is in pretty good condition and the store is small, so you won’t spend hours looking for an outfit. The peach Polo Ralph Lauren Western shirt I got for $35 is still one of my favorites.

6. Goodwill, Chelsea
Of all the Goodwills in the city, why this one? Are the workers nicer? Absolutely not, but the selection is all that. This fairly new outlet isn’t too crowded, but it is fairly organized. If you’re familiar with Goodwill, expect all of the same prices and merchandise categories. Last week, I found a leather Coach computer bag in good condition for $20.

7. Vintage Thrift, Gramercy
From Manolos to mink throw pillows, this store literally has everything. You can get a stack of records with your dining room table and Italian designer ties with a retro KitchenAid mixer. Not only has Vintage Thrift been named Zagat’s #1 NYC thrift store four years in a row, profits go to The United Jewish Council of the East Side.

8. Viceversa, Williamsburg
Maybe the most overlooked Williamsburg thrift store, Viceversa is definitely worth your time. Stocked with equal parts men’s and women’s apparel, you can find everything from red cowboy boots to sequined muumuus. Prices here are dynamite – you can snag a fur coat for as little as $40. I bought an 80s rainbow sequin dress for $20 last year; I recently saw the same exact dress on Nasty Gal retailing for more than $200.

9. The Antiques Garage, Chelsea
Lauren from Corvus Noir introduced me to The Antiques Garage last summer when I interviewed her for FashionIndie. This place is insane. From 9 am – 5 pm every Saturday and Sunday, you can walk through this concrete jungle of every antique imaginable. It can be a little overwhelming, so take it slow – one table at a time. I bought a gorgeous leather, color-block bag with a chain strap for $10 the last time I was there.

10. No Relation Vintage, East Village
Nestled among the dozens of nail salons and pizzerias on First Avenue, No Relation Vintage is a rare gem. Little nooks throughout the store hold specifics like shoes or sundresses while scarves sit in a basket by the register, waiting to be impulsed purchased. In true East Village fashion, you won’t find a shortage of leather jackets or distressed band tees. Many a silk scarf from this old school thrift store hangs in my apartment.

Did I miss anything? What is your favorite NYC thrift store?

A variety of clothes for sale

Credit: Free Williamsburg

The Best Dresses for Ringing In 2011

Amanda Gabriele — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 16:52:15 +0000

With the new year right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about an outfit for the big night. Take a minute out of your Christmas shopping agenda to check out 10 perfect dresses for the first hours of 2011.

Alexander McQueen Jersey Samurai-Print Dress – $2,165 at Bergdorf Goodman

Issa Strapless sequined silk dress – $586 at Net-a-Porter

Lanvin Jersey-silk sequin draped t-shirt dress – $2,485 at Lanvin

Alice + Olivia “Priscilla” Bustier Dress – $495 at Bloomingdales

Express Metallic one-shoulder banded dress – $79.90 at Express

D&G Ocelot Print Stretch Satin Bustier Dress – $625 at Nordstrom

ABS Silk organza strapless dress – $330 at Saks

Badgley Mischka Platinum Label black silk georgette covered sequined v-neck dress – $259.20 at Bluefly

Motel Spider mesh dress – $80 at Nasty Gal

French Connection Morningstar knits dress – $298 at French Connection

Trendspark: Round Sunglasses

Andy Wass — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 19:00:21 +0000

There’s something about these absurd cartoon-John Lennon-Doctor Octopus sunglasses that I love. You definitely need the right face shape and size to pull these off. I must have them before Mary-Kate gets her pupils on them and continues her monopoly on the round sunglass market.

Vintage black 80′s shades (top) available from Nasty Gal.