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Karin Bereson, owner of Nolita staple No. 6, stands in front of racks of vintage clothing like they're her empire. After all, she has hand picked each piece from around the world, mainly London and Paris, throughout her years of owning the vintage shop that's become Manhattan's premier destination for clogs.
"The idea of this sale was to have wearable, well-priced stuff you can wear tomorrow," she says. Indeed, this isn't the place to shop for a tacky ‘80s prom party getup or a Pink Ladies halloween costume (though there is a $65 black fringe flapper dress that would go oh-so-well with a cigarette holder.) You're more likely to find your new favorite printed dress for around $50—you know, the kind that you just want to throw on when it's hot and you don't feel like putting effort into anything. Pretty much everything at the sale is under $100, so you don't have to feel bad about buying used clothing for Barneys prices.
Every style, and every decade, is represented here: there's a slashed neon pink and yellow tee that says "Acapulco" ($30) and a pastel blue fur coat ($45); for something more subdued, there's a pair of high-waisted suede trousers ($65) and there was a $30 oversized camel-colored turtleneck (sorry, I took it home!) Most importantly, there's plenty of stuff to let you embrace this fall's great ‘70s revival: tie-front dresses, boho tops, and tweed blazers are all here, and they're way more authentic—and cheaper - than what Topshop has to offer.
Plus, there's a selection of vintage oxfords, boots, and sandals for around $20-$50, as well as No. 6's signature clogs for $100. Don't forget to check out the scarves, belts, and bags—I spied a little $60 bucket bag, proving they've existed pre-Mansur Gavriel.
If you want fancy labels, Bereson insists you go elsewhere. "It's not about the label. It's about the print, the cut, the moment in time it captures." And though there's something for everyone, the vintage-shy (or heat-sensitive) should probably stay away. She says, "This is for girls who wear vintage and have always loved it. I wanted them to be able to find stuff—that was the goal."
Thursday, August 20th through Saturday, August 22nd. Daily 12pm—7pm. 8 Centre Market Pl between Broome and Grand Streets.