Whether you’re a New York City local, making the big move soon, or just taking a summer trip, College Fashionista rounded up the best sustainable shops to visit while you’re there. Sustainable shopping is not only a fun activity, but it is a productive way to limit fast fashion consumption and support small creators. Purchase sustainably and you are bound to find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. Happy shopping, city girls!
01. The Niche Shop
311 E 81st St, New York, NY 10028
The Niche Shop is a secondhand and vintage shop curated by style blogger Nichole Sesti. She recently opened the storefront after a year of showing her favorite finds at flea markets around the city and through her online shop. Visit The Niche Shop in the Upper East Side Wednesday through Friday, noon to seven PM or Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
02. The Butterfly Club
436 E 9th St, New York, NY 10009
The Butterfly Club is home to over thirty sustainable brands and is the East Village’s hub for sustainable streetwear. Owner, Maddie opened The Butterfly Club in 2020 with her father to encourage others to shop slow and support independent brands. Visit The Butterfly Club Wednesday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. or Sunday 12 p.m. through 6 p.m.
03. Bedford Vintage
207 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Bedford Vintage is a curated thrift store owned and operated by Olivia Wolk. Previously Classon Street Vintage on Depop, Olivia took her love for vintage resale to the next level last year when opening her brick and mortar store in Williamsburg. Be sure to check out the store’s Instagram for information on pop-up events all summer long. Visit Bedford Vintage any day from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
04. Les Miss
283 Mott St, New York, NY 10012
Les Miss is a one of a kind shop curated by Leah Gans. Leah started out as a handmade jeweler and has evolved her brand into an entire store in Nolita. Almost everything in the shop is handmade as it only carries the work of small creators. Visit Les Miss Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. or Sunday 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
05. NYC Fair Trade Coalition: The Sustainable Fashion Community Center
1795 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10029
The NYC Fair Trade Coalition (NYC FTC) is an organization which uplifts fair trade businesses and retailers in New York City. NYC FTC is home to The Sustainable Fashion Community Center (SFCC) in East Harlem, a one of a kind experience where you can clean out your closet by donating clothes, textiles, accessories, and shoes of any quality. You can then pick up to 10 ‘new to you’ items in their swap shop for $15. Be sure to check out The Fair Trade Gift Shop with products from around the world. Visit SFCC Tuesday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. or Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Looking for more NYC suggestions? Check out, The Perfect Day in New York City or visit the NYC Vintage Map for a complete list of the best NYC vintage stores.
Featured Image via @emmguz
