Shop of the Week: Smith + Butler

With all the "concept" stores, corporate chains, and crazed guest designer collabs in retail, it's pretty refreshing to visit a store that simply sells great shit. Welcome to Smith + Butler. The Carroll Gardens newcomer sidesteps the flash and instead offers a curated assortment of fashion and lifestyle products that are classic, comfortable, and built to last.

Inspired by old-world Brooklyn and biking culture of a by-gone era, owners Marylynn Piotrowski and Jay Alaimo have created a space that is rugged yet remarkable in its understated beauty and cool. They sell "quality utility fashion" for men and women -- brands like Belstaff, Filson, St. James and Pointer -- that you can really live in and that look great, too. There are antique leathers, army and navy surplus basics, vintage motorcycles and biking accoutrement (helmets, goggles, gloves, etc).

More delicate wares and apothecary items can be found on the main floor of the store. There are some stand-out cardigans and twill mini skirts from Mike & Chris, gorgeous leather-accented sweaters by Lara Carazan, and the sweetest fringe boot moccasins we've seen to date (made by BK brand Manimal). All of the furniture, antiques, books, and photography at Smith + Butler are for sale, too. It's a timeless collection of good taste.

Smith + Butler
225 Smith Street
Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn
(917) 977-1847
www.smithbutler.com

Photos by Rebecca Prusinowski