By Abigail Heuchert
Photos by Melissa Kelly Photography (melissakellyphotography.com)
and
Alexa Nahas Photography (alexanahasphotography.com)
As the sun shines a little brighter and flowers bloom along the Schuylkill River, Manayunk awakens with energy, creativity, and—of course—style. This charming neighborhood isn’t just a shopping destination; it’s a place where fashion tells a story, where boutique owners know your name, and where every storefront holds a unique treasure.
Step inside Armen’s Custom Tailor Studio, where the sound of a sewing machine and the hands of a skilled tailor create perfectly fitted suits, dresses, and more. Armen doesn’t just adjust clothes, he helps you look and feel their best. Whether it’s a sharp wedding suit or a custom dress shirt, his work is about more than fashion; it’s about quality. In addition to their tailoring services, Armen has men’s clothes for sale. Get a tie or suit for your next event locally!
Just down Main Street, you’ll find Sami Nakishbendi of Bendi Jewelers carefully polishing a handcrafted ring, explaining how each piece he makes has meaning. To him, jewelry isn’t just something you wear. Each piece tells a story. From rings to necklaces to earrings, his work embodies those sentimental moments of life into physical pieces of art. At Gary Mann Jewelers, the focus is on custom-made designs, created with care and meant to be passed down through generations. A goldsmith and gemologist, the Mann’s strive to create an intimate environment to experience their unique collections of jewelry. All the while, passionate wrist watch dealer and collector, Martin Pulli of Martin Pulli Fine Jewelry and Watches, curates custom, vintage, and antique high-end jewelry from independent makers all over the world.
For specialty lingerie and nightwear, Expect Lace is your spot. The shop and its staff have changed the way women shop for lingerie, nightwear, kimonos, slippers and more. It’s not just about picking the right size, it’s about finding pieces that feel good, fit well, and boost confidence. For fun tees, totes, beanies, socks, baby clothes, and more, The Little Apple has you covered. With a rotating, seasonal selection in-store and a “For Your Closet” section on their website, you’re sure to find that little special something to add to your spring look.
LILA Philadelphia brings stylish designs from around the world to this cozy part of Philadelphia. Owned by two Greek-American sisters, Lisa and Laura Anne, the shop is essentially a world market that showcases artistic talent that hasn’t quite been introduced in the U.S. yet. Just a few short blocks away, Vamp Boutique offers bold, playful fashion, with flirty outfits and eye-catching accessories for those who love to stand out. Meanwhile, Remix on Main is the dream store for designer fashion lovers. The high-end resale shop, offering authenticated goods from Chanel, Hermes, Gucci, and more, are giving shoppers a chance to own luxury pieces with a story.
For the passionate thrifter, Jinxed Manayunk is the place to scour the racks for that perfect find. Kingswood Collective is also a great place for discovery, priding themselves on “supplying cool stuff since 2013.” With vintage streetwear, sports apparel, and a buy, trade, sell model, you can really be a part of the curation. Trendy Philly sports gear is something that Minor Details Philly is familiar with as well – along with Swiftie apparel, Philly swag, and everyday clothing. And no outfit is complete without accessories, right? The Eyeglass Works makes sure glasses are more than just practical; they’re stylish too. Whether you like bold frames or sleek, simple designs, every pair is a statement piece. Gild + Olive also has your accessory game covered. With a blend of timeless craftsmanship and modern edge, they offer haute jewelry that’s sustainable and always affordable.
Don’t forget the Manayunk Welcome Center where you can find a variety of goods representing the personality of the neighborhood. Overall, fashion here isn’t just about what you wear, it’s about how you wear it. It’s about confidence, creativity, and finding pieces that tell your story. This spring, take a stroll through Manayunk, visit its boutiques, and let your style shine.