How would you like a tall, elegant, black-glazed ceramic mug with an outsized curvy handle for only two bucks? Pretty darn good deal, eh? How about if I told you the mug had “CPW Dentistry,” along with the business’s phone number imprinted in white? Would that be a deal-breaker—or up the ante for you?

Whether you’re a fan of the ironic, the kitschy, the camp, the scarce—or just can’t resist a bargain—you will want to get your fine self to a Housing Works Thrift Shop, where I just spotted the above. And if you’re within the sound of my voice, or at least within the geographic parameters of this newspaper, be assured there is an HW near you: from the Upper West Side (Broadway and 96th) to Chelsea (143 W. 17th St.), with pit stops between. If you dare to cross our southern border, be advised you needn’t pack a sandwich in case you get lost: The HW bookstore café at 126 Crosby St. has snacks and suds.

Has it really been two decades since the original HW shop opened on West 17th? Indeed it has, and while there are now various outposts, know that shopping at whichever locale you choose helps the same worthy cause: ending the often twinned crises of HIV and homelessness.

Speaking of homelessness, many of us lucky enough to have roofs over our head have entered the nesting stage of winter: post-holidays, we’re tired and broke and weather-whipped. Ah, here’s the fix: a steaming mug of cocoa in, say, that “CPW Dentistry” mug we were smart enough to snag!
What could be more cheering than serendipitously scoring when sorting through often one-of-a-kind wares being sold for a song? Not that it need be said—though here I go saying it, anyway—in any venue with many singular pieces and high turnover, please take examples cited here as simply, though accurately, representative of the kinds of finds you can expect; you may well discover even better stuff.

That said, there’s often a good selection of small, novel kitchenware, and if you’re looking for a new mug, or want to add to an existing collection of quirky cups, consider such additional examples as the one reading “Howe Caverns” with a colorful, if hard to figure out, depiction of the natural attraction ($2); and “YOGA BADASS” followed by “deal with it” (um, should a yoga devotee be this truculent?). The latter cup, perhaps to make up for its bad attitude, had a $1 sticker.
Perhaps most predictably, what you should find at these thrifts are lots of blue jeans at OMG prices. I spotted men’s classic five-pocket Gap Boot Fit jeans tagged at $10, the same price I recall seeing on denims at HW maybe 10 years ago. A dusky blue-and-black-checked Calvin Klein Jeans casual men’s shirt in irresistibly soft cotton was going for $15.

There often seems to be a plethora of black separates for women (well, this is New York); in black skirts alone, I spotted velvets, faux suedes and real leathers. Loved a humble black corduroy—label missing, but who cares—tailored skirt for $15. Paired with a fitted blazer, such as the Grace Elements paisley brocade tagged at $25: knockout.

“Oooh, a Slinky!” a grown-up near me suddenly exclaimed, as she reached over for the “famous walking spring toy,” selling for $2. “I haven’t seen one of these in a long time,” she wistfully added, as she played with the toy that, as its box declares, “moves without motors!”

See—serendipity: What’d I tell you?

By Sharon Feiereisen

We’re constantly bombarded with news of the latest trends and wardrobe must-haves, but what are small things we can do that can have a major impact as we usher in this new year? The answer may very well reside in methodically shopping vintage.

Jennifer Collins, the founder of Pink Clouds—a highly editorialized online retailer that specializes in designer vintage garments—explains that vintage shopping is all about finding that one-of-a-kind standout item or a conversation piece that will completely revitalize your wardrobe. The key, she says, is to strike a balance between vintage and your modern go-to staples.

“Throw on a vintage coat or statement jewelry and you can totally revamp your look,” Collins said. “I am a slave to leather leggings, but I then mix it up with a vintage Celine or Yves Saint Laurent blouse.”

Jennifer Collins is an expert at finding conversation pieces. Photo courtesy of Pink Clouds

It’s important to remember that vintage is archival fashion, so don’t be intimidated by fit issues.
“Sometimes you’ll need to put a little love into an item and get it tweaked for the perfect fit,” Collins said. “Most vintage pieces come with some wear, which is a built-in part of their charm. However, experience has taught me to carefully inspect items before purchase.”

For example, when buying vintage fur, Collins advises looking closely at the pellets and feeling for overly dry skin; if it’s dry and cracking, the fur will tear easily and will be hard to repair. She also recommends keeping an eye out for water stains, as they are often hard to remove.

“What’s most important is that the piece has good bones. You can always nip and tuck and take up a hemline or two.”

Because fashion is cyclical, vintage shopping is a great way to discover the origin of a trend or design concept.

“And better yet, a great way to individualize trends with items that are reminiscent of runway pieces, but are ultimately one-of-a-kind,” Collins said.

She singles out the heavy influence of the 1960s on the Spring 2013 runways (think Marc Jacobs), and says that if you loved those looks, “look no further than genuine mod pieces inspired by Op Art and reminiscent of Edie Sedgwick to revamp your wardrobe.”

In keeping with what trends to invest in, lifestyle expert Robert Verdi advises that if you’re going to update your closet, it should include something graphic: black-and-white prints or an Asian-influenced jacket or wrap.

“In a new year, you should always try something new,” Verdi said. “I believe that people don’t wear enough pattern, so add any item with a bold pattern to you wardrobe. The easiest place to start is a blouse or a scarf—but don’t forget that when you find something you like, search for the best value online; people get too used to buying things from one site.”

As we start 2013, arguably the most important thing to remember is that sometimes it’s not about more—but rather less.

“Detox,” says Stylecaster’s Meghan Cross.

“I think the best way to revamp your wardrobe is by de-cluttering your closet. I have so much more fun getting dressed when I can actually fit my arm in my armoire.”

Here’s to a clutter-free 2013 filled with just the right amount of graphic mod and Asian-inspired looks.

Alvin is a 14-pound Boston terrier who does not share my affection for shoes. Needless to say, it took a while to find a pair that he would be seen in public with. But step foot out on a snow or salt covered sidewalk? He won’t have any part of that either.

Never in a million years did this native New Hampshire-ite think she would write a column advocating the use of canine booties. But I am a true convert. City sidewalks are tough on the feet. While dog’s paws are built to withstand outdoor terrain, a little pampering can be warranted. Snow and ice can build up between the toes and cling to fur on the feet, resulting in cuts and abrasions or, at the very minimum, uncomfortably cold feet. It is best to let the ice melt rather than trying to pull it off. Caustic sidewalk de-icer products can cause irritations and chemical burns. At the very least, you should inspect and cleanse your dog’s paws after walking. I keep a box of baby wipes at the door.

If you splurge on boots, be prepared for some resistance from your pet. It will take some time to get used to them. A good fit is necessary to ensure proper ambulation. Make sure the boots have suitable traction on the bottom, and be careful not to wrap them too tight. Of course, make sure the shoes fashionably accentuate the jacket. You don’t want to be caught by the canine
fashion police.

Other cold weather tips:
Keep your animals sheltered from inclement weather. The toasty indoors is always preferable.

If you must house your pet outdoors, provide ample housing that is elevated off the ground and insulated with dry bedding or straw. Find a house just large enough for the dog to stand and turn around in, but small enough to retain body heat. Unfrozen water and ample food are necessary.

Anti-freeze is highly toxic to pets, even in minuscule amounts. If you suspect that your pet has ingested anti-freeze, immediately seek veterinary attention. Life threatening kidney failure can occur, even with treatment.

Beware of thin ice. Keeping your dog on a leash around bodies of water is the smart thing to do.

–
Dr. Robin Brennen is vice president of program operations and chief of veterinary services at Bideawee, 410 E. 38th St.

Got a question for the vet?
Email it to pets@manhattanmedia.com.

Margaret S. Dabney
Morningside Heights

Letters have been edited for clarity, style and brevity.