Loveday 31
33-06 31st Avenue, Astoria
718-728-4057
This vintage mecca serves up the most perfect 50s taffeta party dresses, lux coats and cocktail rings at ultra-affordable prices. Scour the heavenly wall of leather boots for a one-of-a-kind pair and even score a classic piece from a major designer like Prada or Gucci.
Site
35-11 34th Avenue, Astoria
718-626-6030
While Site doesn’t specialize in fashion – unless you’re counting the “I heart Astoria” T-shirts – it’s too adorable to not include. The perfect gift shop, Site carries just about every kitschy kitchen fixture available. Something called a Corkcicle? They have it. Dinosaur-shaped Christmas-tree ornaments? They have it. Also check in for cool, retro maps, gadget covers in delightful prints and super-cute kids stuff.
Kristees
24-01 23rd Avenue, Astoria
718-204-5031
Tucked away in a mostly residential sliver of neighborhood, Kristees is the kind of high-fashion oasis Astoria needs. Stop in for color-blocked sweaters with zipper accents, leather, lace-up moto pants and super-soft T’s – all at a variety of prices. The store works with many lesser-known designers, including some local talent like Asami and Queens 77, whose stu can only be found at Kristees.
Hanger
30-74 Steinway Street, Astoria
347-808-9093
Hanger shines amongst a sea of dime-a-dozen Steinway stores. Incredibly affordable and sinfully trendy, Hanger carries scores of brightly-hued handbags, monogrammed sweaters and studded jackets. Think H&M and Zara, but on a local level.
Cherry
40-37 23rd Street, Long Island City
718-786-8645
It may be by appointment only, but we’ll wait to get in. The upscale, vintage clothier boasts shoes, jewelry and accessories from the turn of the century up through the 80s. And you can’t beat that kind of intimate atmosphere. Shopping without crowds is how we wish we could shop everywhere.
