Seven of the Best Independent Shops in NYC

New York is a mecca for avant-garde style and trendsetting individuals, with new concept shops and pop-ups appearing every week in SoHo, Nolita and the like. Suitable for interiors junkies and those in search of toxin-free beauty products, this list of independent shopping experiences will keep far from the tourist-packed chains.

Stylish, stand alone shops to visit in NYC

This image is on holiday

shopping

The Frankie Shop

Lower East Side

This Lower East Side establishment was created for NYC girls (though it now has a Paris location as well), bringing together cool Aussie, Korean, Spanish and other international brands at an affordable price point. Selling capsule wardrobe staples such as linen maxi dresses and trendy printed neon bucket hats, Frankie Shop knows how to keep up with the times while avoiding the hefty price tag that seems omnipresent at some of the city’s other multi-brand shops.

Address

100 Stanton Street 10002

This image is on holiday

shopping

The Detox Market

Soho

The Detox Market is a haven for all-natural skin, hair and make-up products, and a must for those obsessive about their skincare routine. Whether you’re looking to restock your Tata Harper supplies, try out RMS Beauty’s Living Luminizer or are in dire need of a caffeine sheet mask after one too many nights dancing, The Detox Market is your one-stop shop. Its pure and green, so there’s no need to worry about scary additives or parabens, and it’s a great place to discover new oils and serums (even if you’re already an expert). The prime Houston Street location makes it easily accessible, and it’s across from Whole Foods if you want all-encompassing wholesome experience.

Address

76 East Houston Street 10012

shopping

Oroboro

Nolita

This is exactly the type of shop where you'd imagine your chic stylist friend finds all her statement pieces from under-the-radar brands. The inventory can cost a pretty penny, but each item is an investment in your wardrobe - the store's team hand-picks unique, timeless pieces that act as a centrepiece to any outfit. Chunky-knit white Ulla Johnson sweaters and wide-leg trousers in heavy cotton line the racks, while buttery leather bucket bags and statement slides take up the tables in the middle of the room. An apothecary at the back of the store contains everything from Lucas' Papaw Ointment to Grown Alchemist serums.

Address

217 Mott Street NY 10012

This image is on holiday

shopping

Brother Vellies

Brooklyn

While its stock is available online and via international stockists, Brother Vellies’ standalone Brooklyn flagship is a must-visit. Inspired by founder Aurora James’s love for traditional African footwear, the brand promotes artisanal production in Morocco, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa, and is devoted to sustainability. Each shoe is coloured using primarily vegetable dyes, the amount of leather used is carefully monitored, strong relationships are built with all of the farmers involved in the process, and Brother Vellies’ goal is to produce “forever shoes” that last longer than just a season. Beyond being kind to the environment and everyone who takes part in production, these shoes are gorgeous – high-heeled python boots, the perfect penny loafers and fluffy mules will become permanent staples in your collection.

Address

71 Franklin Street 11222

This image is on holiday

shopping

Maryam Nassir Zadeh

Lower East Side

Bringing together Jacquemus dresses, Linda Farrow frames and stiff Eckhaus Latta denim in the same place, Maryam Nassir Zadeh is a veritable goldmine for effortless downtown style. The brick-and-mortar location in the Lower East Side further plays into the store’s hip je ne sais quoi, and you’ll see locals and globetrotting influencers popping in and out for party dresses and neon hoodies between lunch at Ludlow House and drinks on the Public Hotel rooftop. The in-house line has also gained a cult following of its own thanks to its funky snakeskin mules, embellished jeans and plaid blazers.

Address

123 Norfolk Street 10002

This image is on holiday

shopping

Lunya

Soho

A paradise for the sleep-obsessed, this Zen space is dedicated to all things slumber. With collections divided by fabric, including cool pima cotton for scorching New York summer nights and cosy alpaca fleece joggers and sweatshirts for those who like to cuddle up under a duvet with the air conditioning on full blast, this comfy brand has something for every type of sleeper. Lunya’s shop in Nolita is as minimalist as it is meditative, and all of the well thought-out products curated for modern women are, as the brand puts it, “good in bed”.

Address

255 Elizabeth Street 10012

shopping

ABC Carpet & Home

Lower East Side

With four beautifully curated floors, this is one of NYC’s best shops for interior designers at heart and by profession. Highly inspiring, ABC’s wares are displayed on beds strewn with textured blankets and multi-hued table settings. Featuring lots of pale pinks, beiges and greys, this store is ideal for the modern bohemian looking to add a personal touch to their home, whether that’s in the form of jewel-toned throw pillows or handcrafted tie-dye clay serving bowls. We’ll give you fair warning, though: venturing here might tempt you to reimagine your entire living space from scratch.

Address

888 Broadway 10003

Discover More
Nine of the Best Hotel Bars in NYC