TG170

In 1992, when owner Terri Ann Gillis had just graduated from art school and had no money, she took over this storefront as a live/work space. Rent was cheap and it allowed her—and her artist friends—a pressure-free showcase to sell one-off pieces. While it's now the area's most venerable boutique—offering established labels like Sunshine & Shadow and Vivienne Westwood—it has preserved its studio-like vibe and continues to launch the careers of many young designers. 170 Ludlow St. LES 212-995-8660, tg170.com