With the first snowfall of the year hitting harder than expected, kind of like Ariana Grande’s banger “thank u, next,” chances are you’re going to want to build that winter wardrobe ASAP. I’m talking all kinds of trendy layers—shearling coats, neutral knits, and pops of winter pastels. Lucky for you, creating the seasonal closet of our girl Carrie Bradshaw’s dreams has never been easier, thanks to Fishtown Flea.
The market known for “selecting strong, innovative work that displays incredible taste and craftsmanship,” according to owner Amy Voloshin, is back. This time they’re taking to Paper Box Studios for their Fishtown Sample/ Indie Designer Sale. Stop by the space on Sunday, Nov. 18, to shop some of Philly’s finest designers at major discounts.
“All extra inventory is 40–90% off,” says Voloshin, “giving shoppers the chance to score great products at incredible value.”
Photo courtesy of Fishtown Flea
However, the event does more than offer great discounts; it provides shoppers with an opportunity to shop ethically without worrying about price tags. Voloshin personally vets every vendor, emphasizing a “preference for brands that are socially and environmentally conscious.” In other words, Fishtown Flea isn’t dealing in fast fashion. They’re supporting brands that take the extra step towards true creativity, employing ethical labor conditions and avoiding “overly saturated trends.”
I was lucky enough to preview some of the Sample Sale biggest vendors. Here are the ones worth checking out:
Owned by the husband–wife duo that operates Fishtown Flea, Voloshin combines a bohemian sensibility with bold prints and global perspective. Think breathable fabrics, flowy silhouettes, and pieces you’ll find at the forefront of Gwyneth Paltrow’s closet. An added bonus? Each quarter, Voloshin supports a nonprofit organization aiming to create positive change internationally. This quarter’s recipient is Kranti—an Indian organization striving to empower young women out of the sex trade and into healthy homes and leadership positions.
Owned by Saturday Night Live costume designer Allie Pearce, the Pearce brand brings a whimsicality to basic wardrobe staples. “I love to play with color and use eye–catching bold prints,” says Pearce, admitting that her background in television adds “elements of narrative storytelling” to every collection.
The brand focuses on versatility, especially as the months get colder. “We see a lot of blacks and grey in winter clothing, but dressing for the winter can be fun and playful,” offers Pearce, so expect tons of bold hues on winter staples. And, just like Voloshin, Pearce deals in empowerment. All of their products are photographed on a diverse array of models, aiming to create a space for gender fluidity in fashion.
Whether your goal is to shop more ethically or take advantage of every sale possible, the Fishtown Flea Sample/Indie Designer Sale is meant for you.
Fishtown Flea Sample/Indie Designer Sale
Location: Paper Box Studios | 1639 N Hancock Street
Date: Nov. 18
Hours: 10 a.m. — 4 p.m.
