Avant-garde, a bit gritty, and relentlessly vibrant, Manhattan’s East Village has long been haven for artists, musicians, and creatives. It’s a magnetic neighborhood brimming with energy, creativity, and history and is—unsurprisingly—a beloved hang out spot for NYC fashion insider Ivy Getty. “I feel so lucky to live here and call New York City home,” she told us recently. “I love the fast-paced energy and the endless opportunities this city has to offer. Growing up, I watched so many movies based in New York, [and] that made the city feel familiar always. I think a lot of people relate to that feeling when they move or even visit.”
We spent a sunny afternoon with the It model as she introduced us to the shops and restaurants that she considers her favorites, guiding us around the neighborhood with Christian Louboutin’s latest Carasky bag on her arm. (Yes, it looks as chic as it sounds.) “My personal style is feminine, playful, and very vintage inspired,” she says. “Christian Louboutin has always taken classic styles and elevated them with color or textures, which is a key aspect of my everyday style. The Carasky bag, with its texture and embellishments, is no exception.”
If you’ve been meaning to bookmark a few new locals-approved destinations and serious fashion inspiration for the coming season, read on for Getty’s cool-girl guide to experiencing—and dressing for—this iconic locale.
Flower Power
406 E. 9th Street
Our first stop on the neighborhood tour was at a haven for herbalists. For over 28 years, Flower Power has been a source for those with a penchant for wellness accoutrements including flower essences, herbal extracts, and essential oils, each of which promise a specific benefit to the user. “I am very mindful of my health, and Flower Power is the perfect spot for finding quality loose leaf teas and tinctures,” Getty says.
Styling Tip: Getty contrasts her cream-colored coat and matching mini skirt with a graphic top and the Carasky bag in a deep shade of teal. The feather trim on her coat and the textured leather on the bag both play a role in the success of this look. “Textures are key to a versatile wardrobe; learning how to pair different textures in your wardrobe is so important,” she says. “I like that the Carasky is unique yet simple, making it easy to pair with any look.”
Casey Rubber Stamps
322 E. 11th Street
Getty’s next favorite spot was a specialty shop that nods to past traditions, specializing in ink pads and stamps. “I love that in New York City there are endless unique small businesses to explore; Casey’s Rubber Stamps is so special,” Getty says. “Stamps are not as common anymore, but I think they’re the perfect finish to a letter or a fun craft project.” At Casey’s, you can send in a high-resolution image file and they’ll create your very own custom molded rubber stamp. But there’s also a wealth of existing designs to choose from. A few of our favorites included the hedgehog, speech bubble, and prickly pear cactus.
Dress: Markarian; headscarf: stylist’s own; bag: Christian Louboutin; shoes: Christian Louboutin; left pinky ring: Mers; right pinky ring: stylist’s own; right ring finger: Mers; middle finger: stylist’s own; necklace: Getty’s Own (Foundrae)
Styling Tip: You might not associate bright colors with wardrobe versatility, but Getty—and her enthusiastically pink Carasky—prove that pairing ultra brights with pastels results in a balanced, stylish look. Follow her lead and add in delicate layered jewelry for a hint of texture.
7th Street Burger
91 E. 7th Street
“When I’m in the mood to indulge a bit, one of my go-tos is 7th St Burger,” Getty shares. The East Village joint serves up classic American smash burgers—there’s even an Impossible Burger if you’re not into meat—in a no-fuss atmosphere.
Top: Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini; skirt: Self-Portrait; shoes: Pierre Hardy, courtesy of Albright Fashion Library; bag: Christian Louboutin; earrings: Kenneth Jay Lane
Styling Tip: An instant classic, Christian Louboutin’s Carasky in black pairs perfectly with Getty’s festive mini dress, complete with a white ruffled neckline and thigh slit. For romantic finishing touches, add a swipe of red lipstick and retro-inspired sunglasses.
Ergot Records
32 E. 2nd Street
For records, tapes, and music-related books, Getty points to Ergot Records as the spot. “I was raised by musicians, so I had to include this record store,” she says. “I love picking up a new vinyl to listen to on my record player.” The East Village has long been a destination for New Yorkers who live for the thrill of thumbing through old records; if you share that passion, add this newly-opened store to your list.
Top: Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, skirt: Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini; boots: Christian Louboutin; bag: Christian Louboutin; earring: stylist’s own; ring: Joanna Laura Constantine; necklace: Getty’s own (Foundrae)
Styling Tip: “If I had to pick a favorite look, it would be this pink and red one,” Getty says. “Pink and red is one of my favorite color combinations.” The sparkly crimson dress accessorized with slouchy pink boots feels grounded, thanks in large part to the green Carasky slung over the shoulder.
Le Dive
37 Canal Street
Suit: Stella McCartney; top: & Other Stories; shoes: Christian Louboutin; bag: Chrstian Louboutin; earrings: stylist’s own
Another one of Getty’s top places to indulge is Le Dive, a new tabac-inspired bar in Dimes Square (the trendy area where Ludlow and Canal streets intersect in the Lower East Side). Her recommendation? “Dirty martinis.” The menu here also offers natural wine and delicious small bites, including marinated tinned sardines and artichoke with dijon aioli.
Suit: Stella McCartney; top: & Other Stories; shoes: Christian Louboutin; bag: Chrstian Louboutin; earrings: stylist’s own
Styling Tip: Could this be the affirmation you needed that a printed pantsuit is a wardrobe necessity? Getty wears hers with a pussybow blouse and the black Carasky for a look that feels plucked from the ’60s.
Photographer: Emma Anderson; art director: Mandi Hayes; producer: Hannah Miller; makeup: Deanna Hagan; hair: Helen Reavey; stylist: Rebecca Dennett