By Tara Kyle
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
MEATPACKING DISTRICT — A stretch of West 14th Street known for its ultra high-end fashion boutiques will soon be a little more affordable.
Knitwear brand Lilla P, on the racks at about a dozen New York boutiques and around the world, will open its first-ever retail shop at 420 W. 14th Street this March. Lilla P quietly held a sample sale on site a few weeks ago, Racked reported.
The company, which specializes in cotton cashmere and jersey shirts and dresses within a price range of around $50-$200, set up its office headquarters on the block in 2002.
In that time, owner and creative director Pauline Nakios said she has watched more and more luxury brands move in. Current neighbors include Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen, Diane Von Furstenberg and Yigal Azrouel — places where prices start at about $300 and many items top $1000.
"I feel very fortunate that this neighborhood has built up around us," Nakios said, noting that a new Levi's store next door gives them a peer on the block. "We've really watched it grow."
While Nakios said that shoppers seeking, for example, a Stella McCartney suit, often use Lilla P tees as layering pieces, she also hopes to caters to pedestrians who may not live in the high-rent district. She's watched the opening of the High Line attract more tourists as well as New Yorkers from other parts of the city.
For that reason, she said the store will offer plenty of color alongside the "black, black and black" apparel popular among locals.
After the March opening, Lilla P also hopes to showcase limited run collaborations with designers and local artists, as well as signature items, like their Origami wrap tee.
