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Chalk one up for Chelsea girls. This inviting 19th Street source of mainly womenswear is the domain of self-taught maverick designer Shin Yee Man, who previously owned an East Village boutique. Here, Shin carries the visually arresting, finely tailored handiwork of some 40 clothing, jewelry, and accessory designers. Most are local; some use organic or recycled material; all share an aesthetic that rejects trends and runway looks in favor of artisanal fashion. Shin’s typical (and loyal) customer is a creative professional—architect, gallerist, producer, editor, art director—whose life and work aspire to stylish nonconformity and a Vogue silhouette. (Apart from stretchy jersey pieces, Lingo’s stock fits mainly sizes 0 to 10.) Inventory changes seasonally, but recurring themes include deftly cut broadcloth separates with unexpected cutouts; sculpturally draped microfiber dresses; and gaily printed, ingeniously seamed skirts under Shin’s own Fresh Meat label. Jewelry skews to extremes: delicate beads and gold links or biker-chick leather cuffs. A few men’s items like Oxford shirts with painted swirls and illustrated tees satiate local boys. “My customers want to look sexy and sharp, but like themselves,” says Shin. “They are not followers, and they don’t come looking for ‘me-too’ clothes.” — Karen Tina Harrison

Aug. and Feb., seasonal stock is 25-50% off