Vanity House Designs — Local services in New York

Vanity House Designs is a gem, completely unique. It feels like a throwback to a real Mom and Pop store. You can feel Kurt’s artistic touch on everything. Everyone who has visited with me says, "I want to live here," and that's my feeling exactly. ALWAYS find something new and beautiful.

I did some holiday shopping here for a friend who is in retail, very hard to shop for. She was oohing and ahhhing over the things I gifted her. A huge potpourri bag with the coolest weirdest items, little bits of wood, dried pomegranates, and spices. Silver glittery branches that she promptly stuck behind a snow queen doll in her living room (perfect!). A Stevie Nicks tall votive candle. Handmade chocolate lollipops. A Tim Burton-esque bouquet I created, with help from Kurt

The faux flora and fauna is my favorite part of the store; you can choose different stems or blooms you like and either construct your own bouquet or have Kurt give suggestions. If you see something on one of Kurt's FABULOUS trees not somewhere in the store, ask. It can most likely be sold right off the tree.

The location of Vanity House Designs is part of the Staten Island Ferry complex, so an easy retreat back to the ferry after you’ve visited. Don’t just run and get back on the ferry back to Manhattan. Go see Vanity House Designs....

This store is by far my favorite shop not only at Empire Outlets but anywhere in NYC. I stopped by today and even though the shop was closed because it was in transition from Christmas to Valentines Day. I can only imagine how much work it takes to change this store around and what I did see of it was already stunning! I’m so excited to see it when it’s been fully turned over and ready for the public. VHDs is a rarity and a precious gem because you can no longer find a boutique where you can tell the owner puts his heart and soul into everything. It’s not a cookie cutter store like the lady who said those other stores on the other side of the island are always open. Good well she can go to those other box stores, I will happily wait for what I know will be an amazingly decorated, curated to perfection boutique every time I can and will continue to walk through the doors. I will also gladly travel across the island for. The owner and his staff go out of their way to be helpful but also give space to his patrons giving a full sensory experience you won’t get anywhere...

Stepping into this shop feels like entering a dream. It’s a treasure trove of beauty and charm, filled with unique decor, seasonal delights, and thoughtful gifts that feel as special as the people you’re shopping for. Every visit is an experience—whether I’m discovering the perfect Christmas ornament (their holiday collection is breathtaking!) or finding a gift that feels tailor-made, I always leave inspired.

The ambiance is absolutely magical, like something out of a storybook, and it photographs beautifully—every photo I share from here gets endless compliments. Kurt, the owner, has created something truly special, and Junanya is an absolute star, effortlessly helping you style an outfit for a concert or event in minutes. It’s more than a store—it’s an escape, a moment of joy, and a place to make memories.

Whether you’re treating yourself or shopping for someone else, this shop is a destination you can’t miss. Trust me, it’s impossible to leave without finding something you’ll fall...