From Left: Clutch from Teich, Kate Goldwater in front of AuH20

As I wandered into my favorite coffee shop, Abraco, as I frequently do, I noticed some changes to the downtown East Village block where it’s located. One being that Amarcord (a long time favorite vintage shop) was closing, which made me sad, but then I got an amazing Cartier handkerchief at the sale for five bucks. Don’t worry, their Nolita location is still thriving. Next, I noticed that the shop AuH20, formerly right next door, was moving into Amarcord’s old space and that a new store, Teich, was taking over AuH20′s.

Now that we’ve got that squared away, I think these changes are good, and not only for our closets but for the environment, too. Teich, meaning pond in German, is owned by Allison Teich McGowan, who creates bags and clutches out of recycled materials. These sell alongside locally-designed organic cotton dresses, tops, the softest tanks and her amazing weekender bag. Made out of hemp canvas and oh so big, it’s perfect for summer getaways.

Next door at Kate Goldwater’s, hence the name AuH2O, you will find unique vintage pieces—like the little romper with tennis rackets on it that I just acquired—or blouses, bags and fun, quirky jewelry. What Kate is really known for, however, is her reassembling of vintage pieces into new ones, and the fact that she can alter anything right there on the spot to ensure a perfect fit.