The Market NYC, located at 159 Bleecker Street, is a unique experience. When first walking in the door, it’s almost an assault of the senses. Upbeat music plays softly throughout the indoor market, the aroma of fine leather fills the space, and beautifully cluttered booths are as far as the eye can see. Before coming to the market, I did a little research. The website said you may be lucky enough to see a designer sewing in the shop, but I, unfortunately, was not. The day I visited, many booths were being ran by employees or friends of the designers, so I also did not have a change to speak with any clothing designers. The product offering is endless: clothing, hats, sunglasses, artwork, but handmade jewelry seems to be the most popular. The pieces are made from any and every material imaginable. There were earrings made of bullets, bracelets made of forks, even square rings.
Walking through The Market NYC, I was gravitating more towards the jewelry. I was intrigued by the square, metal rings at Franniart, Inc.’s table. The designer was not in, but an employee explained to me that they were made of gunmetal, 18K gold plate, rose gold plate, sterling silver and green patina. Some of them adorned little stones, some stones off center. This was to allow stacking, giving each stone room to shine through. I could not get photos, as the venue is very strict on the matter but you can check them out at Franni’s website, http://www.franniart.com/Franniart_Rings.html.
I was, of course, attracted to a booth that featured very bohemian garments. The booth belonged to Renee New York, a boutique located in Brooklyn that carries various brands. On display were beautiful statement necklaces, maxi dresses, countless jumpsuits and kimono wraps trimmed with fringe. Head over to their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/Reneenewyork , and see for yourself!
Then, I came across some very interesting jewelry. There was signage at the front of the booth displaying photos of colored stones and what their affinities are. The different stones were wrapped in metal and turning to necklaces, bracelets and rings. As I browsed, trying to decide which stone I should try, the designer, Cecilia Greco, informed me the metal in which the stones were bound are actually forks. Each piece is one of a kind. I ended up purchasing one to bring me calmness so I was able to get a photo. You can see more of her work at https://www.etsy.com/people/dgreco34 .
Another booth that caught my eye was Nanako. I was drawn to them because of the simple femininity of the garments. The line is Japanese inspired and sells wholesale to boutiques, markets such as The Market NYC, Chelsea Market, Greenflea Market and online. They occasionally appear at other markets as well. You can learn more about them at their website, http://www.nanakoclothes.com/index.html .
I encourage everyone to check out The Market NYC and check these vendors out in person whenever you get the opportunity. You never know what you might find that day. They are open Wednesday to Friday and Sunday from 12pm to 8pm and Saturdays 11am to 9pm.
