Underdog East

This is the store that sealed the deal on my little crush on East 7^th Street. Who knew that as I walked east from 2^nd Ave in search of Tiny Living, I’d find so many adorable boutiques for men (!!) like this one. I was pulled in by a gorgeous navy, three-​quarter length topcoat with a silk lapel and hidden buttons that I saw in the window, but sadly they didn’t have it in my size — which is I guess why it doesn’t get five starts (I’m bitter, what can I say).
The selection is small but well chosen, with a nice mix of off-​beat designers and great consignment items (such as aforementioned coat). Great little store layout too, dark and sexy. The owner Douglas was around and we chatted for a bit — very friendly and cool. I’ll definitely stop by again.

Great little shop with edgy, dressy mens streetwear. Wait, is that too specific? Shop owner Douglas used to run the Vivienne Westwood store in Soho, so he has an eye for menswear with some pop.
Cheap? No. Inexpensive? Not even. Reasonable? Yes. If you are a man who cares about what he wears (or a mate desperately trying to graduate your «friend with benefits» into legitimate arm candy), you understand how hard it is to find something that’s as fun to wear as it is to buy. If you shop at a place like Odin, like the stuff but are looking for clothes made by new and local designers, Underdog East is a must. If you are still shopping at the Gap, you had better look somewhere else for your gear. If you shop at Diesel, you are already ready to pay $ 97 for a t-​shirt you really, really like. If you are on a budget, go to the back where there is a discount basket of stuff, sometimes 60% off. Have no shame, dig yourself a find — $ 40 for a handmade t-​shirt (from Brooklyn, no less)