The Frankie Shop

When we opened the door to this petite, inviting boutique on a lively block of the Lower East Side, our gaze was met with the enchanting eyes and warm smile of … no, not an overly enthusiastic collegiate sales associate.

A very recognizable, could spot her from a mile away, 90s. SUPERMODEL.

Now that we have your attention…

While the presence of this otherworldly fashion industry icon admiring the impeccably edited racks inside The Frankie Shop certainly did not hinder our time there, Namewithheld Glamazon’s presence was merely a bonus to what would be a truly lovely shopping experience. Frankie’s cozy nook on storied Stanton Street, their selection of beautiful pieces from of-the-moment labels, and an aesthetically soothing sales floor, had us immediately bookmarking the shop for our next trip to the LES. “Charming” is an overused word here in NYC (ask any local who’s apartment hunted below 14th Street) - but this boutique is exactly that: charming.

Frankie’s meticulous mix of under-the-radar names and brands with buzz is no accident - small spaces require precise curation. Ganni, Rodebjer, Rachel Comey - all here. Korean label pushButton’s easy, structured separates entice the cosmopolitan career girl, while pillowy knitwear from Loulou Studio and a slick pair of burnt auburn Simon Miller boots had us (almost) wishing spring were more than a month away.

          

While great sale finds including a divine forest green Rachel Comey jumpsuit for under $350 and adorable Nanushka mini bags ($258) will appeal to the budget-savvy shopper, there are also plenty of fun, moderate price-point accessories and jewelry items in-store. Frankie’s partnership with the No More Plastic Initiative rounds out their affordable merch: eco-chic reusable beverage cans designed by the likes of artist Brianna Lance and more 90s runway stars - supers Helena Christensen and Carolyn Murphy! - grace the shelves. With proceeds benefiting global campaigns to ban single-use plastic, who wouldn’t want to accessorize their new faux-leather Aeron mini dress with an artful beverage container?

Once you’ve been charmed by Frankie’s fabulous wares and warm customer service, saunter down Stanton for a treat at Bonsai Kakigori, or another neighborhood matcha cafe -- they might even pour your desired brew directly into your new supermodel-designed, ocean-friendly canister.

           

Product photos courtesy of The Frankie Shop.