the hk flea is markedly different from the bk flea (where the delicious foodstuff is the point, for me) in that it is 90%, if not 95%,vintage, and reasonably priced. (i didn't think it was possible to find quality vintage at proper cost in this town any more? rumor is the legendary antiques garage in chelsea will be closing soon, and the vendors moving to hk. the garage always tested my patience--poorly lit, cramped and a bit dirty-- too hardcore vintage for me ). and it looks like a food truck is on the way (you knew it, right?). will be interesting to see how much the vibe at the hk flea changes, as it grows.
BUT there is a wonderful showroom, on the north side of west 39th, between 9th and 10th where small designers sell new and pretty things...
i met anna, a charming designer from northern spain who sells the lolos lolas lolitos line of shoes, bags, and tshirts at the market every weekend.
i am a bottoms up girl--i see shoes first and best. anna was offering cute thong sandals for $40, espadrilles for $50--if memory serves, bright summer colors (pinks and primaries), bold stripes, lace prints, tie-ups...i was distracted by these: wedges, with a buckle. see the stitching? handmade. love it. and the fabric--a silvery, but not flashy, metallic. cotton/canvas/comfortable.
i also had a wonderful time chatting with sally tseng, a designer whose line of well-tailored, sleek, and feminine pieces has been a hit with the young hollywood set.
she gently talked me through my issues with silk and short skirts (i generally avoid both) and got me to try on this simple, elegant racer-back number. within a minute--and for a song-- i'd doubled my summer dress collection. (now i just need somewhere to go? but no rush, i guess--this one is classic, perfect for summer, or layering in the spring or fall.)
she's working on her next collection, but in the meantime, find her--and anna-- at the flea. you will be happy you did...all photos © anita aguilar
