The Most Exciting New Stores Now Open in New York City

From loafers and leather goods to swimwear, the best boutiques to visit

Written by Natasha Wolff

New York City institution Belgian Shoes sells hand-sewn, hand-turned loafers, manufactured in Belgium. Owned by luxury shoe manufacturer Georges Vanacker, the entrepreneur entrusted his three daughters, Barbara, Vanessa and Sarah to run operations, manufacturing and sales in 2019. The brand’s signature men’s and women’s styles consist of an unstructured loafer that is constructed inside out, hand turned and finished. Each insole on these comfortable, light-as-air shoes is filled with piano felt inner lining that is hand stitched into the sole by skilled artisans in the Belgian countryside. The shoes are available in four widths and available in a rainbow of colors and prints in leather, suede, jacquard, velvet and pony hair. The label’s devoted international following features multi-generational fans who can now visit the newly redesigned 55th Street flagship to find their favorite flats. The latest for the brand is a partnership with London-based artist Boyarde Messenger, founder and creative director of Boyarde Art House. Messenger handpainted two unique, colorful surrealist artworks using the classic Midinette and the Mr. Casual loafers as her canvas making some fancy footwear indeed.

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Shane LaVancher

The Most Exciting New Stores Now Open in New York City

From loafers and leather goods to swimwear, the best boutiques to visit

Written by Natasha Wolff

Los Angeles-based label, Clare V., has opened a new, much-larger boutique in Nolita to accommodate its expanding categories and latest offerings. In addition, the space, which was designed in collaboration with interior designers Max Zinser and Kate McCollough, has a courtyard in the back which lends itself to a great entertaining space and a dedicated monogramming station in the back of the store. Founded by Clare Vivier, the beloved accessories and apparel label brings together Vivier’s love for California cool and Parisian charm. Clare V. currently has 10 retail stores, a seasonal pop up in Amagansett and two additional stores opening in Seattle and San Francisco later this summer. “I am excited to open our new store in Nolita, almost 10 years after first opening in New York,” says Vivier. “New York has always been so special to me, and Elizabeth Street has become a second home. I am so happy to see the store continue to be a neighborhood destination. In our new space we have a sunny garden, and we more than double the square footage of our original store.” The bold, fun and colorful yet practical bags, clothing and small leather goods have garnered fans like Naomi Watts, Christy Turlington, Katie Holmes and Jessica Alba over the years.

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Nicole Franzen

The Most Exciting New Stores Now Open in New York City

From loafers and leather goods to swimwear, the best boutiques to visit

Written by Natasha Wolff

George Sotelo, founder of swimwear and lifestyle brand Thorsun, has opened a 1,600-square-foot store in SoHo. Thorsun La Isla Manhattan showcases the brand’s signature swim trunks (including a collaboration with French shirtmaker Charvet) and linen shirts alongside swimwear from hot Colombian brand Maygel Coronel (see Maye Musk's Sports Illustrated cover) and separates from Thakoon. Mexican ceramics, candles, woven accessories and other beauty offerings are also for sale in the tropical-inspired shop. American artist Brent Owens’ novel, sculptural wood artworks line the walls and assorted flora and fauna are on display throughout the vibrant space.

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Björn Wallander

The Most Exciting New Stores Now Open in New York City

From loafers and leather goods to swimwear, the best boutiques to visit

Written by Natasha Wolff

Mulberry has opened a new flagship in SoHo designed by Studio Toogood. The brand’s signature bags including the Alexa bag, the new Softie Collection and the brand’s first carbon neutral collection appropriately named Lily Zero are on display. In addition to new seasonal products, customers will also be able to shop in-store from the Mulberry Pre-Loved Collection, a selection of vintage and pre-loved Mulberry bags which have been expertly authenticated and refurbished by the British brand’s artisans in the U.K. This program is a component of Mulberry’s commitment to sustainability and their Made to Last Program with the belief that through repair, renewal and repurposing each bag’s life can be extended for generations to come while creating a circular and more sustainable life cycle of each product. Customers can also bring in their own Mulberry bags and the brand will re-purchase them for an amount that can be used towards the purchase of a new Mulberry product, and they will restore them for the next owner.