Want to look like a million bucks without spending anywhere near that? Who doesn’t? The Guerilla Shopper has mastered the fine art of finding a great deal. Her Code Word column will decode where to shop, eat, and spend your hard earned dough – while keeping you out of debt. This Guerilla Shopper is in the trenches of New York City, now you can join her!

The Devil Should Wear Kifka and Heller

Reminiscent of any high-end Soho boutique, but right in the midst of Hell’s Kitchen, dwells Kifka + Heller, where the Devil really is in the details.

Reopened this past April, K+H provide wearable, chic fashions for the men and women in and around 10019. The current collection is designed using rich but versatile materials such as silk jersey, leather, linen and denim with the idea that fashion-forward couples can build wardrobes that are complementary and also linked via meticulously designed and styled travel bags.

So what more can be said about New York City clothing boutiques that we all haven’t already heard? Well, in this case, K+H caters to an individual’s tastes and desires. Want that dress in a different color? Ask. Need help figuring out how to wear those jeans and top? They’ll style you from head to toe (and will lend you shoes to ensure that you can visualize the full package that is you). Feel like you need some jewelry to go with those new separates? They have a relationship with the jewelry designer next door. In the “industry” and need wardrobe? They do industry rentals. Hell, need a one-of-a-kind chair for your living or bedroom? Well they make those too.

So what does the (near) future hold? For the forthcoming Summer 2009 collection, K+H are planning new designs using green fabrics comprised of bamboo/hemp and blends. Just don’t roll them up and smoke ‘em.

Going to K+H is more like visiting your personal stylist and having your whims catered to from the minute you walk in the door, but without price points that will send you running back to TJ Maxx (their prices generally run from $185-$950). And I can almost guarantee that if you go there now, you will one day be able to say, “Oh I used to go to Kifka+Heller back in the 2000s when they only had that small space on west 49th St!”

See you in Hell!(’s Kitchen).

445 W. 49th Street
btn 9th & 10th Ave
New York, NY 10019
kifkaandheller.com

For more of Guerilla Shopper’s fashion faves click here.

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Where do you go for the best bargains in New York? Post a comment below and tell us!

Shopaholics rejoice! Your addiction is finally cost effective thanks to the effects of Laura Schooler. This couture crusader started a blog called Guerilla Shopper – a spot dedicated to sharing the best deals that can be found in zips across New York. It’s not just fashion either. Schooler also covers the city’s second passion: food. No sample sale is too obscure, no prix fixe too far to miss the roving eye of this on sale savior. So next time you’ve got some cash to burn, spend it wisely with a little help from your Guerilla Shopper.

Tell us about your blog: what is the premise, what are your main coverage areas, how did you get started? I’ve been beating retail at its own game since the 80s! For decades I have been keeping my shopping techniques secret. People always ask me, “where did you get that!?” I rarely gave a straight answer because I didn’t want others to encroach upon my style. But now I’m older, wiser, and more willing to share. While I make a decent living, I am not independently wealthy by any means. I grew up in a very middle class way as the child of Midwestern parents, so I’m fairly down to earth. However, my shopping technique has allowed me to own tons of great stuff…without being in any debt…EVER.

What brought you to New York?

Ever since I was a wee lass with real blond hair, I set my sights on living in New York City. I was actually born near the Upper East Side and grew up in a small New Jersey town less than 15 miles away, so it may not seem like such a lofty goal. However, my parents instilled a deep love and appreciation for NYC, which made my yearning to live there something of a necessity and not just a mere desire. Dwelling in New York is not a “phase” for me. It is my life. Even when I leave to go to other grand cities like London or LA, I always feel a deep sense of relief upon my return.

What do you love about living in New York?

I guess my New York lust is indicative of my personality. I always like having things to do and desire constant action near my home base, to where I can quickly return if I am so moved. Where else better to fulfill those needs than New York?

What do you think makes a New Yorker?

I think a real, true New Yorker is someone who is always up for the next new adventure, no matter how big or small, and is able to make a funny, interesting story about all of his or her experiences. And then integrate those experiences into their “personal being” to ensure that future experiences will be even better and more exciting.

What surprises you about New York or New Yorkers?

I think what most people are surprised by when dealing with New Yorkers is how willing to help they are. I’m not sure that it’s because we are such a wonderful bunch of people, I think it goes along with the idea that we are all looking for a new experience and adventure, and who knows where that might turn up. So helping someone out may turn into a great story or a new connection that can lead you to something grand.

When you leave New York, what do you miss the most?

When I leave New York I miss having these kinds of spontaneous interactions with people, places and things.

Do you know any tricks or insider info?

Some people’s parents teach them the family business or how to meet a rich spouse or how to cook. Not me. My parents taught me how TO SHOP. If you love clothes, shoes, food & drink as much as I do, then you are in luck: I am your feet on the street in New York, telling you where to get great stuff at a good deal. Follow me as I trek through the shops and restaurants of New York on your behalf.

Best corny tourist attraction that you secretly love?

Perhaps stereotypical of a New Yorker, I don’t find myself at many typical tourist attractions. I’ve never been to the top of the Empire State Building, never to the Statue of Liberty, I’m not a big fan of Broadway, etc. But, I do love my annual jaunt to Coney Island/Brighton Beach, which will continue to become more of a tourist attraction for years to come, I suspect.

Best neighborhood bar?

The best neighborhood joint in my neighborhood is the Rodeo Bar & Grill, hands down. Good food, drink and free live music.

Best late night joint?

Well, I don’t do late nights like I used to, but I guess I’d have to say L’Express on PAS – they serve food until all hours and you can get quite a “show” in there, depending on what time you arrive.

Last cultural thing that you did (movie, museum, theatre, etc…)?

The last cultural thing I did was attend an art auction in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, at which I didn’t buy anything, except a couple of drinks.

Best fancy schmancy restaurant?

I don’t get to go to enough fancy schmancy restaurants, and now that my dad is retired, I can’t even rely on him to take me anymore. However, we did recently go to the Gramercy Tavern and the food and atmosphere – and the hooker in the bright yellow mini dress from the 80s – were excellent.

Best place to meet members of the opposite sex?

My friend is going to kill me for letting the cat out of the bag on this one, but the best bar to meet members of the opposite sex is Marshall Stack on Rivington St. Seems like men over the age of 28 are in there actually looking to talk to women in the same age group.

Best new fashion trends / brands that you are loving?

Not exactly a fashion trend, but something that I have been most pleased with during the past couple of years is that shoes and boots have really upped the ante. There was a phase there in the 90s where I could hardly find a pair I liked, but now I am overwhelmed with the selection that not only suits my tastes, but also encourages me to take some fashion risks that I might not have taken before. Oh, and one request to the footwear designers who are reading this: please keep making tall leather boots that fit around normal sized calves. Thank you. My favorite brand? Well I find myself in Club Monaco’s sale section all too often, but on a more elite scale, I can’t believe the genius behind Marc Jacobs. And while I can’t afford to buy even a T-shirt, I am blown away by his style sensitivities, and perhaps more than that, his marketing approach! Other brands large and small should take note.

guerillashopper.blog

Check out more places to shop in Dress Code

What are your best picks for bargain shopping in New York?

Post a comment below and let us know where you get your thrifty threads.

Shop for a good cause at Delight.com. It’s the site that’s saving the world, one environmentally conscious product at a time. Founders Lynda Keeler and Tracey Tee were so committed to including green practices in their lives, that they decided to build a website that helps others do the same. “We are both fanatical online shoppers, but always felt that something was missing,” says Keeler. “We wanted Delight to always be changing, full of fun, joy and surprises so that you feel like you are shopping at a great boutique with your favorite girlfriends.” But it’s the items they offer that truly set this virtual emporium apart. Keeler and Tee, along with a testing team, hand pick products that are not only eco friendly but also solve problems. Visitors to Delight.com can find a Hybrid Wall Clock made from recycled bicycle and computer parts, along with 100% Recycled Paper Satchels, Bamboo Bath Caddies and the protective Onion Goggles. The team is constantly on the hunt for beautifully designed, innovative and exclusive items that are tailor made for their customers. No buyers remorse here.

What do you think of Delight.com? Where are you picking up “green” products?

Post a comment below and let us know!

Every zip code has its own sense of style. So what trends best represent yours? On the Wednesday March 26th edition of the CW11 Morning Show, CiNYC Fashion Guru Sasha staged “Dress Code: Best of the Boroughs!” Here’s a list of the looks that highlight this city’s style.

Brooklyn: CiNYC’s first episode in Williamsburg (where Sasha’s mom grew up) featured Brooklyn Industries – a homegrown business showcasing the work of local artists. Graphic t-shirts are available for $28-$38, and you can find stores in Brooklyn as well as Manhattan. www.brooklynindustries.com

Staten Island: Sasha noticed a lot of attention to beauty and especially to the nails in Staten Island. Dark colors and chalky opaque colors for spring are hot now. You pay only $5-$7 for Essie and OPI nail polish, available at your local beauty supply store. www.essie.com www.opi.com

Bronx: Da Bronx loves cool, athletic footwear but especially this super cute line called Pastry. The Pastry brand is designed by the daughters of Reverend Run of Run DMC, Vanessa and Angela Simmons. The style is both affordable and chic. Own your own pair of Pastry shoes for just $60-$70. Shop at multiple locations of Dr. Jay’s. www.drjays.com

Queens: In Astoria the club kids are going crazy for designer eyewear – the sleeker and more sophisticated, the better. Gradient Lens Aviators with colored wire frames are the coveted look. You can look like a star for $230-$300, less than the price of an “it” bag. www.shopbop.com

Manhattan: Embrace themes of peace, love, and karma through the spiritual scarves of Sir Alistair Rai at Henri Bendel in 10019. Jessica Alba and Nicole Richie adore these bright, colorful, urban scarves. A major trend, these are on second re-order. Prices range from $115-$165. www.siralistairrai.com

Do you agree with Sasha’s borough picks? Have your own ideas on what’s hip in your zip? Post a comment below and let us know!

Kimberly Van Schoyck is rocking the world of accessories with innovative, bold creations that will spice up any wardrobe. We caught up with KVS to hear how her artistic heritage keeps her designs current.

How did you start making jewelry?
My grandmother was a model turned accessory maker. I would always be in her basement playing with pieces of chains and putting them together. My mother would buy me metals and films and I would teach myself to make jewelry. I was exposed to so much from my grandmother that I didn’t need to learn it at school.

How would you describe your jewelry?
Heavily stone-based with minimal metal. I use a lot of semi-precious stones and mixed materials such as silk ribbon. It’s colorful, it’s bold, and accented with metals. I like to call it wearable art.

Would you say NY has an influence on your designs?
Definitely. You see all these creative people and it makes you want to be creative.

What inspires you?
I have a very creative and artistic family. Aside from my grandmother, my mother is a painter and sewer. I also love color. The stones come first and then I work around them.

Is New York a good place to be a jewelry maker?
Yes and No. There’s a lot of competition, but that breeds success. It’s a hard industry to break into because you’re also investing money in expensive materials. You put a lot of yourself out there. But there’s also plenty of opportunity in New York, such as markets for up-and-coming designers.

What are your biggest challenges?
The cost of material. Also trying to find the best material to offer the best price to customers. I travel often so many of my stones are from abroad, and I spend time searching for the right pieces. No two stones are exactly the same; I put a great deal of effort into detailing each by hand.

Is your wardrobe lacking art? Pick some up at Zoe Accessories.
www.zoeaccessories.net

Retro chic is in abundance at Village Scandal in 10003. This small shop originally offered 20’s and 30’s vintage clothing before their love of hats blossomed into a full-fledged specialty. Now they make their own 1920’s Cloche hats as well as custom designed pieces to suit individual style. All their merchandise is locally designed and they even stay open late on the weekends for the after hours McSorley’s crowd.

www. villagescandal.com

19 East 7th Street, 10003