The ‘20s were a time of outlandish soirées. To match these decadent parties, NYers were styled to the T — sporting flapper looks adorned with pearls, feathers, embroidery and other refined accessories. You can recreate the class of that iconic time period at the Jazz Age Lawn Party at Governors Island the weekend of August 12 & 13, and you’ll definitely need outfits to go along with that plan.
Luckily, we’ve got the best vintage shops in NYC lined up for you to make an impression at summer’s most anticipated gathering. Regardless of your budget, there’s a ‘20s ‘fit for everyone. Keep on reading for our full list!
Don’t miss out on the Jazz Age Lawn Party’s last weekend at Governor’s Island!
1. AuH2O
AuH2O is an upcycled store in the East Village that offers secondhand and vintage clothes at affordable prices. They don’t specialize in a certain era, but you can find clothes, shoes, accessories and jewelry that matches the JALP theme by strolling through their collection. Plus, they have $5 and $10 racks that come in handy when it comes to staying on budget!
📍 84 E. 7th St.
2. 10ft Single
10ft Single by Stella Dallas offers a wide variety of vintage looks — from the casual hoodies and shirts to the more refined dresses and suits ideal for a party like the JALP. The store is very well organized and curated, which means you’ll have to dish out a bit more coins to find that special look you’re searching for. Worth taking a peak!
📍 285 North 6th St.
3. Trintage
Another curated vintage spot for all you ‘20s aficionados out there. Trintage mixes “trendy and vintage,” the perfect stop if you’re looking to merge ‘20s with current day. The black women-owned store opened in 2021, and has gathered stellar 5 star reviews since then. Give their racks a skim next time you’re in Harlem!
📍 182 Malcolm X Blvd
4. Costume Closet
Costume Closet is the place of dreams if you’re looking for that special timely piece. They work with local artists to “showcase, rent & sell their handmade wearable art,” refreshing their collection daily. You can take a peek at their website, but they also have an in-person location where you can play around with fits IRL. Looking for head pieces, hats, jewelry, and shoes for the Jazz Age Lawn Party? Costume Closet might be your best bet!
📍 83 Starr St
5. Abracadabra Costume Shop
The cool thing about Abracadabra Costume Shop is that you can order online ahead of time and pick up in store. That means if ever you’re running late to pick an outfit for the ultimate ‘20s gathering at Governor’s Island, you won’t be pressed for time (though we recommend looking into your ‘fits ahead of time). In addition to all sorts of costumes, the store also sells makeup and props that could make your entire prohibition look!
📍19 W 21st St
6. Le Grand Strip
Now when it comes to ‘20s fashion, Le Grand Strip is where you’ll find all the gems. Fashionista and connoisseur CC McGurr created the boutique in 2006, and ever since it’s been a go-to spot for anything vintage. Le Grand Strip offers rentals so you don’t need to buy a full outfit if you think it’ll just sit in your closet and collect dust (although, these NYC streets deserve to see you strut!) Because every collection is intentionally curated, Le Grand Strip can be on the pricey side, but you’ll have to check it out for yourself.
📍 197 Grand St
7. Screaming Mimi’s
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Screaming Mimi’s is a vintage shop that gives off strong retro vibes. While a lot of the clothes scream ‘60s and ‘70s, there are still a few pieces that could be on-theme for the Jazz Age Lawn Party. We’re specifically thinking of blouses, anything embroidery, scarves and other accessories. After all, searching through racks for the perfect find is all the beauty of thrifting!
📍 240 West 14th Street
8. Pippin Vintage Jewelry
Jewels, jewels, jewels! If you’re looking for that bedazzled look, search no further than Pippin Vintage Jewelry. The store was founded by couple Rachel and Stephen, two souls in love with vintage jewelry and antiques. Their shop is “filled with everything from $4 charms to diamond engagement rings” from various time periods, so you know you’ll find that special accessory from one of their collections.
📍 104 West 17th St
9. East Village Hats
Originally created in 1998 under the name “Barbara Feinman Millinery,” the store offers handmade hats that you can custom for special occasions! Ladies and gentlemen can find their beloved vintage piece, carefully crafted using traditional techniques. East Village Hats complete their own collection with work from emerging designers, whether it be hats, vintage pins or travel cases. And outside of selling, East Village Hats hosts classes as well as restoration, reblocking and retrimming of your favorite pieces!
📍 80 E 7th St
10. Hamlet’s Vintage
Finally, for the ultimate vintage finds, why not pay a visit to the largest vintage store in Greenwich Village? The storefront itself is enough to draw you in with its eclectic blue, orange and brown, but wait until you get inside. All of the pieces in the shop are vintage from the ‘40s to ‘90s, but you can still find your best ‘20s fantasy by playing around with styles and fabric. And, what’s more: you might get to meet Dita, the store-owner’s dog!
📍 146 West 4th St