The Best Vintage Stores Downtown
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.
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 sequinned ’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.
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Desert Vintage stocks classy clothes for people with impeccable style. Known for excellent, one-of-a-kind vintage pieces of quality and flair for men and women, owners Roberto Cowan and Salima Boufelfel not only share a passion for vintage and antique items, but also love the art of mixing and styling the collections in a contemporary and wearable way. The vintage selection specializes in pieces from the turn of the century through to the ’70s. In addition to vintage textiles from around the world, Desert Vintage also stock jewelry, a great leather collection of wearables and accessories.
34 Orchard St, New York; T. (929) 585-5975
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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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This local favorite is a New York City staple for editors, designers, and stylists with an archive that ranges from quilted Chanels and Alaias to cowboy boots and band tees. Although it houses over 100,000 unique pieces, the experience is always easy. An appointment is required to visit the showroom, which can be tricky to pin down but worth the finesse. Once you’re inside, everything is organized by category inspiring you to step into character.
351 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013; T. (212) 343-1225
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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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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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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