Rue St. Denis Clothier
Neighborhood: East Village
Type of Place: Vintage Clothing
Description:
I learned some fashionista lingo when I stepped into this ultra-chic boutique: deadstock. Did you know that there is such a thing as vintage merchandise that has never even been worn before? At the risk of sounding like a total vogue newbie (forgive me, I am more of a Woodstock type gal) – those items are called deadstock merchandise. And Rue St. Denis is all about it.
Being a writer, I have somewhat of a mad imagination, and while in the shop, I couldn’t help but be rushed over with goosebumps imagining that these items of clothing were made centuries ago, just waiting for the perfect body to slip into it. The store is so neatly ordered, you don’t have to worry about a hundred New Yorkers having already pawed through its inventory, and if you don’t find something to tickle your fancy at first visit, keep coming back – the store is constantly restocking.
Because the pieces are so specially plucked and preserved, prices tend to be a bit steep at times. But there is a large selection of totally affordable items, like a silk flowered dress with embroidered flowers I purchased for $80. For all I know, one of my ancestors could have made this dress, and I think about that every time I wear it. You will of course find items that run in the $100’s, but in my opinion, it’s worth it – after all, you will be the very first person to don the antique!
For men check out Clothier’s excellent selection of suits, blazers (I saw a totally mod velvet blazer for $200), tuxes, ties and more – and if the item doesn’t fit perfectly, the store will even tailor it for you. On a side note: it’s been wound through the grapevine that many musicians and other star figures shop here for purchasing clothes to wear on stage including unworn European stock from the 50’s and 60’s. . On that note: they have a decent collection of leather jackets that range from about 200 – 400 bucks. If only I were a rock star…
In conclusion, I’d called Rue St Denis Clothier more of a vintage shop as opposed to a thrift shop – and aptly so, because here is one of only a handful of places in NYC that you are sure you are getting what you pay for.
Rue St. Denis Clothier
170 Avenue B
New York, NY 10009
(212) 260-3388
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