When you think about New York, the cool shops that come to mind are in Manhattan, and perhaps Brooklyn. But Staten Island should not be forgotten. On a recent trip to Staten Island’s neighborhood of New Dorp, I discovered five fashion boutiques, each of them with their own voice. If you’re looking for an original item that all the Manhattanites will envy, here’s where to go.

Boutique #1: L Furs

L Furs is a tiny fur boutique that carries only ladies’ clothing. Specifically, the boutique specializes in custom fur, leather and shearling items. You’ll find coats in a variety of sizes and styles, including lapan (aka rabbit), fox, beaver, mink, sable and items with combinations of furs. But not only coats; they also have ponchos, capes, scarves, purses, underwear, bras and hair accessories made of fur. The store also offers repair (cleaning and alterations, for example) of a coat you might already have, as well as on-site storage for coats and other fur items in cold storage vaults.

Boutique #2: In Phase Fashions

In Phase Fashions | Credit: www.inphasefashions.com

In Phase Fashion is a large ladies boutique that carries clothing for upscale parties and events, such as weddings, proms, New Years Eve parties, Christmas parties, formal events on cruises, and other special events that require a lady to sparkle. The selection of dresses is quite large, with a variety of colors that will suit just about any taste. Expect most dresses to be polyester, or with a mix of fabrics (nylon, metalico, spandex, etc.). In terms of prices, to give you an idea: there was a rack of dresses on sale for 99 dollars, and a polyester red crochet mini skirt at 250 dollars.

Boutique #3: Prevue Boutique

Prevue Boutique is another store strictly for ladies, with clothing for fancy, casual or career-oriented events. A mixture of everything defines this boutique; you’ll find polyester and faux-leather dresses and jackets alongside leather and suede bags and belt. There’s also quite a large selection of vintage items, including vintage jewelry nicely display in glass cabinets. On the website, there’s an option to register to get 10% off.

Boutique #4: Just B Boutique

From underwear, bags, shoes, scarves, umbrellas, coats, and of course, dresses, this boutique sells a variety of women’s clothing. Both European and American designers are represented, as well as some scarves from China, for example. One of my favorites was a coyote coat from Paris, very unique; it felt incredible and will surely last a lifetime. You can also purchase some items online (including some items on sale!). 

Emily’s Boutique | Credit: www.emilysny.com

Boutique #5: Emily’s Boutique

If you are looking exclusively for high-end designers, this is the place to go. Emily’s Boutique is a large scale store owned by, you got it: Emily. A salesperson will be at your side at all time to guide you through their elegantly chosen clothing. You’ll find ladies’ dresses, skirts and tops for special events, as well as sportswear and some accessories. Check out their website before you go for a full list of designers they carry.

L Furs; 334 New Dorp Lane, Staten Island, NY 10306; Monday – Friday: 11.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. / Saturday: 11.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. / Sunday: by appointment.

In Phase Fashions; 338 New Dorp Lane, Staten Island, NY 10306; Monday – Wednesday: 9:30 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. / Thursday: 9.30 a.m. – 9.00 p.m. / Friday and Saturday: 9.30 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. / Sunday: 11.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. / Closed Sundays in July and August.

Prevue Boutique; 193 New Dorp Lane, Staten Island, NY 10306; Monday: Closed / Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 11.00 a.m. – 6.30 p.m. / Thursday, Saturday: 11.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m. / Sunday: 11.00 a.m.-4.00 p.m.

Just B Boutique; 1574 Richmond Rd, Staten Island, New York 10304; Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday: 10.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. / Thursday, Friday: 10.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m. / Sundays: closed. https://www.facebook.com/pg/justbboutiquesi/

Emily’s Boutique; 1654 Richmond Rd, Staten Island, NY 10304; Tuesday through Saturday: 10:30a.m. – 5.30 p.m. / Thursday: 10:30 a.m. – 7.30 p.m. / Sunday and Monday: Closed.