Why we love it: Plum, the 2-year-old Victorian parlor-esque boutique of ready-to-wear and accessories, along with its sister store, Pear, a Parisian Boudoir of fancy footwear, are imagined to be an interpretation of a fashion forward girl’s closet and dressing area. The staff at both locations are well-versed on the established and up-and-coming designer’s collections—such as Gen Art alums Octopi and Mischen. Owner Jackie Atkins, who has a background in television and film costume design, brings a fresh international perspective to Ludlow Street with offerings from Australian whiz kid Josh Goot, Copenhagen/Berlin innovator Sarah Heart Bo and Brazilian shoe designer Corso Como.

Piece to covet: The best part about these stores is acquiring an entire ensemble between the two shops. We found Chie Mihara flats with suede ankle straps at Pear, perfect for day or evening, which we will “pair” with Josh Goot’s metallic tank dress at Plum.

Plum and Pear, 124 Ludlow Street, (212) 529-3460
- Amanda Doll Sheppard

Why we love it: Located on a charming block of Greenwich Avenue (not street!), Otte offers youthful and stylish basics from emerging and established designers. Slightly more elegant than its Williamsburg counterpart, the West Village location features of the moment designs by Alisha Levine and 3.1 Phillip Lim, as well as Gen Art alums Tashkent by Cheyenne, Andrea Brueckner and Geren Ford. Otte is a one-stop shop for updating your wardrobe, stocking everything from cotton tees to wide-leg jeans to cocktail dresses

Piece to covet: We spotted countless essentials for summer’s long weekends and late nights, but our must-have is Vanessa Bruno’s draped metallic gold jersey blouse—perfect when paired with khaki shorts and leather sandals.