British Invasion: West Village Edition

Nicky Perry is no stranger to the West Village. This Brit has owned neighborhood haunt Tea & Sympathy for over 20 years. This week, she gushes on all-things British in the West Village.

1) Tom Binns
41 Perry St. (nr. W. 4th St.)
(917) 475-1412
www.tombinnsdesign.com

Tom Binns, or “The Master Craftsman” as I like to call him, is an incredibly talented (and CFDA award-winning!) designer with a delicious shop. He has produced amazing jewelry since the early days of punk-rock, when he was hanging around London with his mates Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood. Naturally, his pieces pay homage to that inspiration like the insane safety pin necklace above ($940).

2) The Hat Shop
120 Thompson St. (at Prince St.)
(212) 219-1445
www.thehatshopnyc.com

Though my mother was always a lover of hats, it wasn’t until I met Linda (the fabulously stylish owner), that I could ever conceive of wearing one myself. The ocean-creature inspired “Anemone” ($258, above) that I wore to celebrate The Royal Wedding is one of my all-time favorite pieces.

3) Lulu Guinness
394 Bleecker St. (btwn. Perry & W. 11th Sts.)
(212) 367-2120
www.luluguinness.com

I was delighted when Lulu Guinness set up shop in the neighborhood; they have a real sense of style and whimsy. Their bags are fun statement pieces, while still maintaining artistry and a surprising practicality, making them perfect for everyday wear. One of the most fabulous bags I’ve seen recently is the Union Jack snakeskin lip clutch ($710, above), perfect for my next trip overseas.

4) Grahame Fowler Original
138 W. 10th St. (btwn. Waverly Pl. & Greenwich St.)
(917) 388-2444 ‎
www.grahamefowler.com

The first time I noticed Grahame Fowler’s shop on 10th Street I was immediately drawn to his oh-so-British merchandising. The pieces he has in the shop have that feel of well chosen classics where the quality tells you that–as always in life–you get what you pay for. Grahame’s collection of vintage Lambretta scooters is something that I salivate over; they help to evoke the feeling of that bygone age where good things were meant to be used and appreciated.

5) Ted Baker
32-34 Little W. 12th St. (nr. Washington St.)
(212) 647-0991
www.tedbaker.com

Ted Baker is another favorite stop if I’m looking for a gift for my husband. Their trim British silhouettes and fun accessories provide classic elements at an affordable and everyday wearable level. One of my hubby’s favorite looks is pairing Baker’s Weaks Endurance blazer ($499) and Oakhill shirt ($155)…casual meets chic at its finest.

6) Tea & Sympathy
108 Greenwich Ave. (nr. Jane St.)
(212) 989-9735
www.teaandsympathynewyork.com

Last but certainly not least comes Tea & Sympathy, Nicky’s very cozy corner of the West Village. Here, find genuine English food and imports, from Victoria sponge cake and Bakewell tarts to bangers & mash and classic Shepard’s pie. As tasty as Tea & Sympathy is, it’s Nicky and her spirited staff that really give the place its heart.