Little Red Boutique (CLOSED)

This jam-packed boutique with deep-red walls sells mostly women’s apparel with a look that tends toward mature city-chic. Though the service is less than stellar (the staff didn’t seem too pressed to help us) and the prices a bit steep for the area (a basic jersey shirt will run you $30), the varied range of versatile pieces that will take you from cubicle to cocktails makes it worth a stop. There is a good handful of beaded and ruffled cocktail dresses ($60–$200) that look as if they could have been plucked from a Nolita shop, and such alluring items as striped chunky-knit sweaters ($30–$60) and leather handbags ($30–$300). Owner Josie Ultarte-Almonte started the store five years ago after working as a buyer for various large department stores; the selection here reflects a personal sensibility that’s inspired by the urban romantic gypsy with a touch of the practical, as evidenced in pieces such as knit infinity scarves ($20–$40).