Downtown Vintage Treasure Troves
If you draw your aesthetic from a certain nostalgic era, a visit to these downtown vintage emporiums will sort out any gaps you might have. Be it sequined ’70s disco tops, perfectly worn Levis, ’90s espadrilles, antique Edwardian blouses or midcentury homewares—vintage-clothing hounds will quickly sniff out rare and classic finds.
Edith Machinist
Descend to this basement storefront on a smart block of the Lower East Side—Assembly New York is just a few feet away—and you may experience a bout of déjà vu. You may think you’ve seen that lime purse or evening gown before. And you likely have, on the silver or small screen. This women-owned boutique is vintage and designer-forward—think, Gucci and Givenchy with reasonable prices. Watch local fashion stylists, editors and costume designers transform into different characters or invent their own: a matador jacket here, a 1930s cameo ring there, a pair of DKNY espadrilles from the ’90s—and have a night on the town.
104 Rivington St, New York; T. 212-979-9992
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James Veloria
Have you ever wanted to close your eyes and enter a fashion disco fantasy land? Well, that’s what entering James Veloria feels like. This colorful, glittery and impressively curated vintage store is only for those in the know. Inspired by innovative design, bold colors and patterns, the store is packed with unique, exciting, and iconic pieces with an emphasis on Japanese and European designers. The shop is curated with a specific vision and critical eye in order to meet the standards of the James Veloria aesthetic while still maintaining an accessible price point. Every fashion insider has this place on speed dial.
75 East Broadway #225 New York; T. (510) 229-2862
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Ritual Vintage
If you can imagine the contents of a time capsule spanning decades—from Victorian-era blouses, and flapper-style robes, to glittering 1930s dance shoes, and ’70s high-waist bell bottoms—then that’s pretty much what the front window of Ritual looks like. This little shop on SoHo’s Broome Street has a lot of style thanks to owner Stacy Iannacone’s keen eye for rare and iconic pieces. The selection offers a deep dive into fashion history making it a go-to for costume designers specializing in period clothing for film and television productions.
377 Broome St, New York; T. (212) 966-4142
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9th Street Vintage
In 2012, Meri Civorelli opened her brick-and-mortar vintage store on 9th Street in the East Village. Over the past decade, 9th St. Vintage has become a staple source for eclectic wares including everything from casual and evening dresses, lace blouses, Levi’s, and tees. Artisanal bits and pieces for the home are also on offer—bamboo soap bars, linen spray, tooth powder, and reusable facial cloths, among other items. Additionally, you can make an appointment for personal styling and design services.
346 E 9th St, New York; T. (917) 265-8833
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Hello Banana Vintage
Hello Banana is a vintage treasure trove bursting with racks of retro clothing and accessories with a focus on the 1960s and ’70s. The emporium is owned by vintage veteran Bailey Leiter whose proclivity for collecting can be traced back to her teenage years. Cut to 2020, and Leiter opened the doors of Hello Banana (the name nods to Tommy James and the Shondells song “I Am a Tangerine”) and ultimately, access to the very best of her colorful collection of mod, bohemian, and rock ‘n roll pieces. Better yet, Leiter’s knowledge of the ’60s and ’70s extends well beyond clothing. When she’s not curating her store, she spins vinyl 45s—all rare soul, funk, and R&B. Of course, she also throws a monthly dance party at Soho Grand called Hello Banana the Party!
156 1st Ave., New York; T. 646-476-4456
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