While 125th Street has been making headlines for the proliferation of large chain retailers opening up along the boulevard, Harlem — a mecca of street style — is also home to a number of coveted fashion boutiques for both men and women.
Find classic looks and fresh urban style in these must-visit uptown apparel destinations.
245 Malcolm X Boulevard off West 122nd Street
Harlem Haberdashery (Image: Driely Vieira courtesy of Harlem Haberdashery)
This three-year old boutique is the luxe retail expression of 5001 Flavors, a custom clothing company that has been catering to locals and celebrities alike for more than 20 years. Eager to collaborate with clients to create head-to-toe looks that communicate style and success, the shop has earned rave reviews from shoppers and media outlets alike.
2164 Frederick Douglass Blvd. near West 117th Street
Bébénoir is a New York-based clothing company and boutique offering a wide range of stylish African-inspired clothing at reasonable prices. Founders Ibrahima and Fatima Doukoure — a husband and wife duo with a shared African heritage — started the company in 2004 with a t-shirt line while each was working in corporate positions. Surviving the economic downturn and a layoff, their styles continue to be deeply rooted in the traditions of their proud homeland and wildly appreciated by devoted shoppers.
383 W. 125th St. at Morningside Avenue
Capsule (Image: Courtesy of Capsule)
For of-the-moment men’s clothing, footwear, and sleek accessories, there’s no better spot than Capsule. The boutique’s mission is to inspire customers while offering the finest luxury threads from both up-and-coming and established designers, all presented in a warm and welcoming environment. Here you’ll find top luxury brands alongside coveted streetwear labels, including Scotch & Soda, Salvatore Ferragamo, Pierre Balmain, Roc Nation, Rockstar, Buscemi, and others.
20 East 125th Street near Madison Avenue
Harlem Underground aims to encapsulate the style, energy, and spirit of Harlem within their selection and share it with the rest of the world. For nearly 20 years, they’ve been offering high-quality jackets, sweatshirts, and t-shirts that are the perfect mix of rugged, playful, and timeless. Browse their boutique on 125th Street or visit their extensive online shop.
2538 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. at 147th Street
Harlem’s Heaven Hats (Image: Harlem’s Heaven)
Harlem’s Heaven is not only the oldest hat shop in Harlem, but it is also the oldest black-owned independently run clothing store in the entire neighborhood. Owned by Evetta Petty, Harlem’s Heaven hats are highly prized by the local churchgoers, but are also suitable for any formal occasion. With designs for both men and women, Petty’s handmade creations have been on exhibit at the Museum of Art and Design, and she offers bespoke designs for customers, performers and productions alike.