Sunday, May 02, 2010

Hidden Treasures at Hester Street Fair: Report From the Front

I cruised through this spot a couple of weeks ago and was completely unmoved.  But leave it to Nancy Brenner to unearth that which should be treasured:

Open Saturdays and Sundays at Hester Street off of Essex Street, lots of booths looked like discarded junk drawers tossed on a  table and priced at whim.  Which is why one potential buyer mistook the price of a collectible Kenneth Jay Lane frog from the 70s at a $1plus change at Treasures & Pleasures.  Educated consumers and converts to collectibles will discern a fetching couture Jean Patou 1940s blue clutch from the 70s, a 50s lucite Koret handbag that evokes Fontainbleau poolside with cosmo in hand.  There was a 50s bronze beaded beauty with the original Saks tag still attached. Also spotted, Judith Lieber.  Vintage handbags and jewelry mainly from 40s through 70s.

Be prepared to splurge, as most items are $50 and up, but talk to Rafael, and mention you read the Guerilla Shopper... If you are in the market for an original Mother's Day gift, this is the spot. Prices are
lower than their uptown store at 1050 2nd Avenue (near 56th St.), Gallery 20. Check out their website at tpleasures.com.

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