Manayunk will always hold a special place in my heart. As a native to the Philadelphia area (who has yet to stray more than 3 hours away, #PAgirl4life), I have fond memories of going to Manayunk with my mom and my sisters when I was young. My first pair of Sally Jesse Rafeal glasses? Thank you Eye Glass Works. The best water ice in a 3000 mile radius? Overbrook Water Ice, of course. Sadly this is no longer there. Beans Beauty, anyone? A Main Street staple (and also owned by my mom’s first cousin). We went to Manayunk a lot growing up – so much that I bought my senior prom dress there and as I sit here writing this a decade and a half(ish) later, I am married to my handsome date. When Manayunk reached out and asked to me come check out their current fashion scene (#MNYKFashion), I was equal parts excited and nostalgic.
We started our night at Maya J. with light bites and cocktails. The perfect precursor to a personal shopping tour of the city. Here we (myself and a few other bloggers) had a chance to mingle with the current shop owners and get to know their back story, their concepts and visa versa.
Meet the shop owners:
After leaving Maya J. (which by the way you need to try – they feature farm-to-table small plates and craft cocktails), we headed out to the first boutique.
MILLAY VINTAGE
We walked down the street to Millay Vintage. Here I got a chance to chat with owner, Mary (and her adorable “shop dog”), about her vintage collection and one-of-a kind pieces.
If you like to stand out (or just be the ONLY one who has the privilege to wear a certain piece) this store is a must-see. I was drawn to this floral dress by small batch designer, Kelly Love. Ruffled high neck, open back detail, French seams – need I say more? If you are a fan of Anthropologie – you will love this store.
LILA Fashion International
A few doors down, we entered LILA Fashion International. New to the block, Greek-American sisters, Lisa and Laura Ann, have taken their international love of fashion (they’ve lived in Athens, Saudi Arabia, vacationed as kids in Hong Kong and the Philippines just to name a few) into a beautifully curated, hand-selected collection of clothing, jewelry, accessories from around the world. From their cheeky sweatshirts to their authentic kilts, to their conversational print tops, we were all wowed by the global experience the store has to offer.
Remix on Main
Next we headed to another sister owned and operated store, Remix on Main. Remix is a high end consignment boutique and, yes, they have the goods: Louis, Christian, Gucci, Chanel. Whether you have something to consign or are in the market for one of these classic pieces, this store is definitely one to check out. Here is a list of brands they have in their store.
Ashe B. & Co. Bridal
Although I’m not in the market for a wedding dress (I can’t believe it’s been 10 years), Ashe B & Co. was one of my favorite stores to visit. Owner, Brittany Ashe, has a collection of stunning dresses for what she considers to be “the off-beat bride”. Traditional with a twist. We had the best time sifting through her collection of bridal gowns and wedding party dresses. Brittany is a southern gal, so yes, you can expect lemonade and cookies upon your arrival.
Threads on Main
If you love designer brands such as Free People, Velvet, Current Elliot etc… you will love this store, Threads on Main. The collections are on point and on trend. It’s the best of the best of your favorite department store in a more intimate setting. Be sure to follow the owner on Instagram for daily outfit inspiration. She is kind of adorable 🙂
Nicole Miller
Last, but not least, I must mention Nicole Miller. As Philadelphia icon – her store needs little introduction. The night got away from us and we were unable to visit them this time, but I can assure you it is worth the trip. My sister bought her wedding dress at the Manayunk location and my mother-in-law bought her mother-of-the-bride dress there as well. Their holiday collection is, well, it’s amazing so somebody please invite me to a party so I can wear this.
Be sure to follow Manayunk.com on Facebook for updates and events of this special places right on the outskirts of Philadelphia.
And what did I wear to this fashion filled night? Here you go:
A sincere thank you to Manayunk.com for the exclusive tour of their fashion scene and for sponsoring this post.
