Spring brings us thoughts of renewal and recycling. If your closet could use a little refreshing, theres a new place to donate your cast-offs, while picking up some spiffy replacements at the same time. Housing Works has just opened its 10th thrift shop in our neighborhood.
Think spacious and gracious. Spacious to accommodate all the nearly mint-condition merchandise, and gracious on the part of the helpful staff, many of whom are volunteers.
Housing Works is a non-profit organization devoted to providing assistance and services to people with HIV and AIDS”and making a special effort to reach out to the afflicted homeless. Helping men, women and children with everything from medical care to housing to job-training since 1990. Because of the AIDS focus, it tends to attract clothing and furniture that is more stylish and in better condition than other such charitable enterprises
What did we find in Hells Kitchen? Plenty of Ralph Lauren wear, shirts and jackets for men, blazers for women. The higher end merchandise tends to be more gently used, and you know it will hold up better in the long run. Menswear also included Nautica and Barneys labels, Ferragamo neckties and some sleek Bruno Magli shoes. In fact, this Housing Works location will be emphasizing mens clothing, including suits and leather jackets.
Yet theres plenty for us gals, too. We saw Gucci shoes and Missoni bags for well under $100. Nannette Lapore, Tocca, Versace, Carmen Marc Valvo and Ellen Tracy were among the womans clothing options. Have an event where you need a evening gown? There collection may have you looking all spruced up for less while giving back to those in need. Jewlery, sunglasses and scarves were eye-catching and well-priced, starting at under $10.
Even the art on the walls is for sale, which on this day included floral lithographs and some framed Asian textiles. Leather chairs and a love seat add atmosphere, although I’m sure they’ll be snapped up before my next visit. China and tableware rounded out the displayed.
This Housing Works branch will be having special events regularly, such as a Happy Hour with discounts, silent auctions and theme nights with live entertainment. Keep up with the goings on via the website, Housing Works.org and you’ll learn that everything is 25% off on Sunday, April 25.
Housing Works is at 730 Ninth Ave. (between 49th and 50th St); 646-963-2665. Opening hours are daily 11:00a.m. to 8:00p.m. and 11:00 am to
6:00 pm on Sundays.
Posted by Chris McLeod
on April 23, 2010. Filed under FAMILY,Family,NEWS,Shopping,Times Square Community.
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