Flee Your Worries at One of New York City's Many Flea Markets
From the upper west side’s Grand Bazaar fair, to Chelsea’s cozy outdoor market, there’s a Flea market for every type of shopper to enjoy!
By Iris Stigell
Food stands, vintage vendors, secondhand goods, and beautiful handmade jewelry are some of life’s greatest pleasures, and what better place to find all of these things in one spot, than a classic New York Flea market!
There are different types of shoppers when it comes to second hand buying; the prepared, list-maker shopper, going in with a specific target in mind, unable to be swayed by all the lingering treats that surrounds them.
Then there’s the impulsive shopper… I’d have to admit that I would most accurately belong to this category. This is the type of shopper who buys solely on emotional impulse. We are easily swayed in every direction, regardless of whether there was something we actually ‘needed’.
So let’s talk markets!
Chelsea Market
Located at 29 W 25th St, New York, NY 10010
The Chelsea market, open every weekend, from 8am-4pm, was an absolute joy to attend, filled with vintage jewelry, antique sellers and second-hand designer beauties, it was hard to keep my hands to myself!
As I walked in, the first thing I spotted were these gorgeous big chunky gold earrings, reminiscent of an 80’s dream. This jewelry heaven continued throughout the market, from golden pendants, to big silver hoops, to vintage cartier watches, there was a piece for everyone.
As I made my way through the stands, I noticed a stand full of beautiful vases, paintings and little nitty gritty goods, whose only purpose is to please.
So, if you are looking for some new bling, or a new pretty piece to spice up your home, I’d definitely recommend giving the Chelsea Market a browse.
Grand Bazaar
Located at 100 W 77th St, New York, NY 10024
The Grand Bazaar market, open every Sunday from 10am-5pm, was a lemonade and designer good heaven. As I made my way in, I was immediately greeted with a delightfully bright stand filled with freshly squeezed lemonade, sweetened at your exact request.
As I continue on, I notice a stand full of beautifully quilted jackets, pants, pillows and duvet covers, all made by the stand owner himself. Next is a leather lover’s heaven, with racks filled with only vintage leather jackets, in every cut and color imaginable.
My favorite part about this market is that every time you thought you had reached the end, it only seemed to stretch on further. Acting as a portal to Narnia, stood a door, separating outside from inside, filled with more stands selling endless vintage and hand-made pieces.
So, if you are looking for a new funky, and unique piece to jazz up your closet, the Grand Bazaar is THE place to visit!
Hester Fair Market
Located at 89 South St, New York, NY 10038
Hester Fair market, opening for its 14th season, open every other weekend, from 11am-6pm, was a perfect tease of spring. Located outside, on the piers in the financial district, the market oozed of summer fun, accompanied with the most splendid old school Italian tunes.
Although smaller than the first two markets, Hester fair has a particular essence to it, a feeling of community and curation that’s hard to find elsewhere. From gorgeous 60’s silk dresses, to your perfect pair of Levis, Hester provides a perfect sanctuary for a Saturday browsing goods with your girlfriends by the water.
With each vendor proving a story about their finds, or in some cases, creations, the experience of strolling from one stand to another, gives you a feeling of belonging. But the very best part, had to be the Mexican stand at the back of the market, offering just about every flavor of lemonade known to man.
So, if you are looking for a new pair of jeans, a unique 60’s dress to enrich your summer wardrobe, or just an enjoyable Saturday afternoon and a delicious taco, Hester Fair is the place to be!