Best independent shops: Lower East Side

Wendy Mink Jewelry
Mink and her team of Tibetan artisans handcraft each bauble in their Tribeca studio. The result: an exquisite collection of chunky necklaces, dainty earrings and East Asia–inspired designs ($30–$650). The Cheap Chic line features jewelry under $100, including crochet circle pendants ($28), semiprecious white agate drop earrings ($32) and freshwater champagne pearl charm bracelets ($48). 72 Orchard St between Broome and Grand Sts (212-260-5298)

By Robert James
This laid-back, rustic boutique carries James’s own label and a few select others. Find the owner stationed here seven days a week, hawking his beautifully tailored outerwear ($165–$1,000), hand-sewn woven shirts ($128-$210), graphic tees ($20-$48) and vintage accessories ($35–$60). Hit the permanent-sale rack for discounted goods year-round (tees are $20, woven shirts are $40). 75 Orchard St between Broome and Grand Sts (212-253-2121)

THECAST
Chuck Guarino and Ryan Turner’s locally produced line distinguishes itself by its attention to detail (see aged brass trimming on dark-wash jeans, $150). Insider tip: The entire collection is 40 to 60 percent off until it’s sold out. Jeans are now $150, vintage combat boots are $125, flannel collared shirts are $125, and graphic T-shirts are $20 to $40. 119 Ludlow St between Delancey and Rivington Sts (212-228-2020)

Dear: 55
Moon Rhee and Hey-Ja Do’s androgynous “one-size-fits-all” collection includes odd-shaped bat-wing cargo coats ($595), tiered ruffle skirts ($295) and cotton harem pants ($185), plus vintage accessories and the duo’s own jewelry. 55 Clinton St between Rivington and Stanton Sts (212-673-3494)

Honey in the Rough
TONY Discount! Former makeup artist Ashley Hanosh stocks dresses from established and up-and-coming labels, such as Mociun and Binetti. At the lower-level beauty bar, get eyebrow sculpting ($50) and makeup applications (starting at $15). Mention TONY and land a brow sculpting for only $30, through August. 161 Rivington St between Clinton and Suffolk Sts (212-228-6415)

Pixie Market
In an attempt to bring a taste of London’s Portobello Market to NYC, friends Gaelle Drevet and Magda Pietrobelli opened a hip spot to showcase undiscovered international talent. Among the forward picks are Motel acid-washed shorts ($59), rose-print tulip-shaped skirts ($61) and Gabriel & Schwan braided rope necklaces ($60). 100 Stanton St at Ludlow St (212-253-0953)

Edith Machinist
There’s always an impeccable selection of flat leather boots, antique jewelry, military-style jackets, silk party dresses, and bags and shoes in every shape and color—all more affordable than ever. Machinist “spontaneously” slashes prices every few months, so keep close tabs. 104 Rivington St between Essex and Ludlow Sts (212-979-9992)

Plum & Pear
Modeled after a Victorian parlor, this hangout showcases owner Jackie Atkins’s picks of edgy, hard-to-find designers. A new initiative for spring (which hasn’t been announced to the general public yet—shh!) hopes to appeal to cash-strapped shoppers via discounts on the in-house collection, Gina DeSilva. Buy any two items for a total of $150 and get both customized—in terms of fit, color, lining or cut—at no extra charge. 124 Ludlow St at Rivington St (212-529-1030)

Where to eat

Falai Panetteria
Carb up on tasty pastas and panini ($10-$13); you’ll be back in the shops in no time.
79 Clinton St at Rivington St (212-777-8956)

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Shopping guide '09
Best independent shops Forget chain stores. It's the little guys we're loving right now.

                              

               

Shopping guide '09
Best independent shops Forget chain stores. It's the little guys we're loving right now.