Duo

Profile

Pixie-cropped sisters Wendy and LaRae Kangas opened this discerningly stocked boutique in December 2008, packing the racks with independent New York designers and selective vintage wares culled from various East Coast and Midwest sources (the duo originally hails from Minnesota). A brick fireplace, antique light fixtures, and creaky wooden floorboards lend a timeworn feel to the space, and the sisters punch out price tags by hand on an antique twenties typewriter. The focus is on local talent, including Williamsburg-based designer Keller’s vintage-inspired ankle boots, luxe knitwear by Bendel regular Anna Kula, and handcrafted jewelry by East Village-based designer Nishi. Clothing lines are funky and versatile—organic cotton knitwear by Bodkin—and the retro shoe selection of stacked heels, brass buckles, and Oxfords is impeccably preserved. The pair plans to launch their own line of womenswear as well. — Lauren Murrow