1. Anthom
Meticulously curated by co-owner and co-founder Ashley Turchin, Anthom’s sophisticated vibe extends across its 280m² Mercer Street space in SoHo. The artfully placed racks carry an eclectic collection of items from slow-fashion labels that nail the effortless high-low look, such as Ffixxed Studios’ knits with a twist; luxe hats from Clyde that are blocked by hand in a local millinery factory; understated threads from Katharine Hamnett; and slick gym-to-brunch clothes by Live the Process. The star of the store is South Korean designer Yune Ho, whose pieces are perfect for the individual keen on smart, well-priced, tailored clothing.
2. Swords-Smith
This spacious Williamsburg store is filled with more than 80 brands, and many of them are designed and made in New York and feature unique textures and patterns. Designers to scope out include Lila Rice, Eleven Six and – very soon – Adam Selman. Don’t leave without checking out their Spotify playlist; you’ll walk away with a few new tunes.
3. Totokaelo
This Seattle transplant has made a name for itself as the go-to spot in the Big Apple for forward-thinking style. Housed in the former home and studio of photographer Jay Maisel, the graffiti-covered building on SoHo’s Crosby Street carries both established labels – think Comme des Garçons, Vetements and Jacquemus – and up-and-coming brands.
4. Assembly
This well-designed Lower East Side space owes its artsy leanings to founder Greg Armas, who was a former gallerist, and gets a dose of attitude from the eclectic bric-a-brac displayed throughout its brightly lit premises. Standout labels include Parsons graduate Sandy Liang and Collina Strada, as well as Assembly’s in-house brand of gender-neutral basics.
5. Sincerely, Tommy
Other than focusing on emerging fashion and lifestyle labels, this spot also serves as a café, gallery for emerging artists and event space. The revolving rack of designers curated by Bedford-Stuyvesant native Kai Avent-deLeon includes handmade knitwear by Brooklyn-based Aisling Camps and an in-house range of contemporary pieces.
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This article was originally published in the February 2019 issue of SilverKris magazine