New York Fashion Week officially starts today and while I am not able to be there now, I celebrated in my own way with a short shopping trip to the big city earlier this week. The Fashion Week gods must have been watching over me, because I had one of those shopping trips that dreams are made of. The success of my shopping was thanks to a couple new staple shops I found roaming the streets! On West 17th Street between 6th and 7th Avenue, you will find two dual purpose thrift shops. Not only do these shops provide amazing shopping for you, but proceeds from your spending spree go toward the greater good.
Angel Street Thrift Shop sells their patrons gently used designer clothing and other items to help those affected by substance abuse, HIV/AIDS and mental illness. You should never feel guilty for spending when your money is going to such a cause and you won’t have to with these prices. The atmosphere at Angel Street is sleek and clean. This makes it easy to wrap your head around the inventory and you will be shocked at what you find (Salvatore Ferragamo vintage shoes for $40, Burberry for under $50). High-end labels at low prices are everywhere, but get it while you are there because nothing lasts long.
Just down the block is Housing Works, which donates proceeds to help end the dual crises of homelessness and HIV/AIDS. The shop is funky, clean and filled with an array of well-known and designer labels. The cork board at the front of the store will tell you what the day’s deals are. The day I shopped Housing Works, all women’s skits were $2! Not only did I find a couple chain brand buys like Gap and J.Crew, but I walked away with designer names like Marc Jacobs and Rebecca Taylor…for $2 dollars!
One street, two thrift shops and multiple reasons to visit. Go now and go often to find special pieces for a special cause.








East Coast Chic (ECC) began as a fashion blog in 2010. I created ECC because the diversity of style on the East Coast is inspirational and endless. ECC allows me to share my favorite fashion thoughts and spots from my headquarters in Washington, DC, as well as other trend setting states along the East Coast and beyond. 
