Christina Gitti presents brilliant color combinations in her Indian inspired Soho store, Matta. This Italian designer travelled widely before eventually settling down in Brooklyn, NY. During journeys through the Middle East and India she was exposed to the diversity of natural fabrics and earth-toned dyes that are popular in the region. She decided to meld that palate, with an Italian emphasis on quality, and fine workmanship. A skilful combination of both worlds is easily detected at Matta. Fine silks share space with cottons and wool, and nothing is designed to be drab. Winter feels like spring, when pink scarves layer on top of periwinkle jackets. Vermillion, gold and silver also add to the East meets West appeal.

Eco-consciousness also figures in Matta’s design philosophy. From recycled plastic hand weaved throw carpets to recycled paper products; this store’s chic aesthetic remembers to consider the planet. For Matta, function is just as essential as form, Gitti’s garments are not only unique and fashion forward, they are also built to last.

When I caught up with Real Housewife of New York City, Alex McCord during Fashion Week, she had one important tip to bestow upon me. “Check out Epaulet in Brooklyn!” We both agreed that Brooklyn often gets a bed rap from tourists and stubborn Manhattanites, but the reputation is completely undeserved. Savvy shoppers can find out how much they have been missing at Epaulet. Not only does it epitomize Brooklyn chic, it also prides itself upon offering a wide selection of independent, eco-conscious designers. Epaulet offers the widest selection available stateside of Brazil’s designer environmentally friendly shoe label, Melissa, and one of my American favorites, Tracey Reese.

Boutique owners Michael and Adele provide clients with helpful personalized assistance and even produce their own label in house. They pride themselves on the belief that local and fair-trade always trump ultra-corporate. In their own words, “In these days of mega-retail and lowest-cost production, we feel that it's crucial to support independent firms and fair labor practices. If our sale, and your purchase can allow an ambitious person to keep producing and designing high-quality and unique items - which you love to death - then our job is done.” Value and quality are their clarion call, and Epaulet can be counted on to deliver both.