Goods Made in Brooklyn
Brooklyn is a melting pot of makers, so what could be a better souvenir than something Brooklyn made? Here's a short list of local brands to look for when you're browsing.
Clothing
Madison Avenue may be famed for luxury shopping, but Brooklyn is where you go to discover up-and-coming talents. Be tempted by breezy silk blouses and dresses by Rachel Rose, wonderful Indian-inspired prints by Ace & Jig, and sleekly silhouetted frocks by Ilana Kohn. For a one-stop shop, hit one of the four Bird boutiques in the borough: they're in Carroll Gardens, Fort Greene, Park Slope, and Williamsburg.
Accessories
Accessories purchased on location are the perfect way to remember a trip. Digby & Iona, Scosha, and AILI are all known for their unique yet casual jewelry: look for them and others at Catbird, in Williamsburg. The shop is also known for its own line of delicate pieces. For purses and totes, keep your eye out for Brooklyn brands like Hayden-Harnett's clever zip pouches and cross-body styles, as well as sumptuous leathers by KikaNY.
Beauty Products
Homemade beauty brands abound in Brooklyn. Lip and body-care lines like Stewart & Claire, Apotheke, and MeowMeow Tweet have literally been cooked up in the borough. The Shen Beauty emporium carries these and many, many others.
Home Decor
Buy yourself, or a friend, something for the home: everyone adores the totes and tea towels with whimsical motifs hand-drawn by Fodor's Brooklyn's own illustrator Claudia Pearson. Design lovers rave about the stunning wood cutting boards from Gowanus Furniture, coasters by Brooklyn Slate, offbeat dishware by Recreation Center, and everything from custom cabinets to small goods like coasters and trays from Noble Goods. The Brooklyn Flea in DUMBO and Artists & Fleas are good places to shop.
Edibles
Dozens of Brooklyn-based purveyors produce delicious snacks, nibbles, and spreads–-pickles by Brooklyn Brine, Mike's Hot Honey, jams and jellies by Anarchy in a Jar, Mama O's kimchi, and so much more. Whole Foods is the perfect place to stock your kitchen or find a gift.
