Gift shopping in New York doesn’t have to be a chore. Tucked away in the city’s neighborhoods are independent shops offering unique pieces of craftsmanship that are certain to inspire. Get lost among these 6 stores and you’ll find the perfect gift for your loved ones.
Nalata Nalata
Tucked away down an East Village side street, Nalata Nalata’s pristine wooden interior is a secret sanctuary of contemporary Japanese design. Home goods for the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen are immaculately arranged in such a fashion that the space could easily be confused for an art gallery. Placards for each product tell you a little about the designer, material it’s made from, and geographical origins. After a visit, you’ll find yourself with a newfound appreciation for how beautiful everyday design can be.
Where: 2 Extra Place, East Village
When: Open from 12PM to 7PM Tuesday to Sunday
Love Adorned
Originally a tattoo shop, the edgy aesthetic has evolved into a chic jewelry brand. The immaculately designed pieces come from independent designers, and they look like nothing you’ve seen before — at the same time, somehow, you could see yourself wearing the pieces with nearly any look. They stock accessories too, from scarves and incense to, quite unexpectedly, chic pocket knives.
Where: 269 Elizabeth Street, Nolita
When: Open from 12PM to 8PM every day
Young & Able
Taking place in a three-story Brooklyn townhouse, the Young & Able pop-up brings together goods from 60 women-owned businesses. Imagine walking into a masterfully decorated home where you can take anything you want — this is just that. Expect to find everything from clothing and jewelry to skincare and homeware, all with a unique independent flair. The pop-up will run until December 23rd.
Where: 277 Berry Street, Williamsburg
When: Open from 12PM to 7PM Thursday to Sunday
John Derian
Shopping here is like walking into the coolest East Village apartment ever. There’s a vast variety of design discipline to explore, from the owner’s specialty in découpage to uniquely crafted handmade kitchenware. Also keep an eye out for the framed one-of-a-kind drawings and paintings, and the whimsical yet luxurious decorative pieces.
Where: 6 East 2nd Street, East Village, 10003
When: Open from 11AM to 7PM Tuesday to Sunday
Collyer’s Mansion
This store in beautiful Brooklyn Heights stocks an eclectic selection of items curated from all over the globe. With a focus on eco-friendliness, the selection includes everything from furniture and textiles (think quirky clocks and colorful throw blankets) to original artworks and jewelry. “Collyer’s Mansion” references a NYFD code word for a cramped apartment, and this becomes clear when you visit — it’s chock full of fascinating curiosities, and the stock is always shifting.
Where: 179 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn Heights, 11201
When: Open 10:30AM to 7PM every day
O.N.S Clothing
71 Greene Street, SoHo
O.N.S. offers casual yet stylish men’s clothing as well as a selection of accessories and home goods — think seriously cool wallets and modernist prints. Their selection is high-end in the design department, but a trip to the store won’t break the bank. And you’ll get free coffee to enjoy while you browse!
Where: 71 Greene Street, SoHo, 10012
When: Open from 11AM to 7PM Monday to Thursday; 11AM to 8pm Friday & Saturday; 12PM to 6PM Sunday