Best Boutique in New York: End of Century

End of Century

237 Eldridge St., New York, NY 10002

(646) 580-4051

Enter the Rivington Street space. Check out the clothing on the left and the artwork on the right, and you'll begin to wonder: Is this a shop or a gallery? The answer: both. Its owners merged their passions for art and fashion in order to showcase both their favorite local artists as well as emerging and established designers together in one locale. On a recent visit to End of Century, our vote for this year's best boutique, we found a white top with fringe and frilly pantaloons by the label Sobotka that appeared to be splattered with blood. Just a few feet away, you could see these same odd pieces in action in a moody video installation. Indeed, there's never any need to worry that your friend is going to be wearing the same thing as you: Most of the clothing and jewelry here are limited-edition or one-of-a-kind pieces exclusive to the store, which is run by Lara Hodulick, Chantal Chadwick, and Claudia Martinez Reardon. Tar and Feather, Purush, and Samantha Pleet are just a few of the talented indie designers you'll find. It also sells a nice selection of artsy journals, including Kinfolk, Gather, and Abe's Penny, to give you creative inspiration. 237 Eldridge Street, 646-580-4051, endofcenturynyc.com (10002)

Source: The Village Voice