It stayed empty until last summer, when I finally saw signs of life (i.e. construction). I was excited about the possibilities; but had no idea what it was to become of the space.
When I saw these hearts pop up in the windows...
...I knew it was going to be something good!
Since I pass the store every day, I met one of the young women that work there. Her name is Jen, (and apparently she's employee of the month)! She told me that it was going to be a store called Fred Flare. I had never heard of them, but welcomed them to the neighborhood.
While the store was still under construction, they had a very informal pre-opening sale in September. That's when I realized the cuteness potential and picked up a couple of things - I scored this amazing subway sign:
and I could not pass up this t-shirt. It's now one of my favorite workout t-shirts (yay! chihuahua!):
The construction continued and the paper remained on the windows, which only added to my excitement. When the store was finally opened in October, and I saw it in its entirety, my inner 12 year old girl squealed with delight! It is so beautifully arranged, super neat and everything *EVERYTHING* is adorable!
I've popped in there several times, buying gifts for friends or fun things for myself. I've met most of the staff since then, and have a school girl crush on Keith. He's so sweet! Anyway, here are some of my favorite purchases:
A gorgeous New York journal with the deco inspired cover. I carry it everyday and use it to jot down notes for my blogs. I love this notebook! It's available in their store or online for 12 dollars. I also had to buy those numbered clips. I really could not resist them!
And when I noticed this pocket book one evening, I didn't hesitate for a second, I knew it was perfect - it has since become my favorite bag. It's not only a great shape but it's surprisingly roomy inside. I use this bag on weekends when I go out and fit all my stuff *plus* a pair of flats (wrapped inside a plastic bag of course). It's also still available at the store or online for only $42.
Here's another item I fell in love with immediately- this perfectly cut pink sweater. It's cropped with 3/4 length sleeves and a cowl neck. How cute is this? (And according to Jen, Keith actually mentioned to her how perfect this sweater would be for me. He was right!)
So those are some of my previous purchases. And after not visiting Team Cute for a while, I finally couldn't take it anymore! I wandered in there today with every intention of buying something. It turned out they have a bunch of really adorable Valentine's related items-
How sweet is this sign? Doesn't it just make you smile?
I did not walk out empty handed- I bought these items:
1- A heart by Chris Uphues (These hearts appear around various places in Brooklyn. I photograph them whenever I see them. I had no idea who was behind them until he brought his famous hearts to Fred Flare.)
2- A box of Junior Mints that are heart shaped (They are for Michael. Hopefully he is not reading this.)
3- A set of 10 retro Valentine's that I will share with my nearest and dearest.
And on this particular Sunday, the lovely Bilgim and Holly were working in the store. They were gracious enough to pose for a photograph for this blog. Hello ladies! Thanks for your help today!
If you're in the Greenpoint area, please give the wonderful staff of Fred Flare a visit. They, and their store, will put a smile on your face. I guarantee it!
Fred Flare- The "Cavalcade of Cute" can be found here:
131 Meserole Ave at Leonard Street
Greenpoint, Brooklyn 11222, 718-349-1257
(a couple blocks north from the Nassau Ave stop on the G train)
STORE HOURS: 12-7 WED-SAT, 12-5 SUN, CLOSED MON & TUE
