Shopping Duckie Brown
An inside look at what really goes on when you come to our studio to shop!
The Ultimate Sample Sale officially starts Saturday, April 27th, from 11am to 4pm and Sunday, April 28th, from 12pm to 4pm at our studio in the West Village, 321 West 13th Street. Buzz #3A. The studio has already been busy with early shoppers — some of our regulars and so many new customers from here, Substack. It’s been good to meet you. With all the new people, we’ve had many curious minds ask what it’s like to shop at Duckie Brown on a normal occasion, so we thought we’d share details about the shopping experience we offer and answer some FAQs.
As you all know—or don’t—in order to see and shop our collections, you must make an in-studio or Facetime appointment. Duckie Brown is only sold by us. Either way, you get the both of us. Two-on-one. Our dedicated attention….for as long as it takes. We talk and listen to what you want, what you’re drawn to, and how you want to feel. But we also look at you, figure out what might look best, and push you a little. Think of us not just as designers but also as personal stylists. We do it all. When the process of trying on clothes begins, you can count on us to be honest. We will be the first to say, “Take it off - it looks horrible on you,” or “That’s fab, let’s continue,” or “That’s just okay,” and brainstorm ways to make it work better.
Our designs can sometimes require you to be *bold* but we will break it down for you. We will show you ways to style so you feel confident wearing it in a variety of settings, from a black-tie wedding to walking the dog. We make sure everyone feels comfortable in our designs and we are thrilled that everyone seems to find something they want to wear when shopping with us. We are often surprised by what people walk out of here with….and what they buy on their first time vs. their second, third, fourth, or fifth time shopping with us.
And, of course, we want everyone to look good in Duckie Brown, so fit is very important to us. If it doesn’t fit, you won’t feel good in it, and you won’t wear it. Once we find something you like, Duckie will fit and pin the garment, and you can take it to our trusted tailor, Ardian, across the street. His prices are very reasonable.
Now, some FAQs…..
Is this for woman? We are for everyone! Where’s the clothing for men? You’re in the wrong studio.
How much are your pieces? Collection prices vary, but most pieces are between $250 and $2,500. We only make one piece of each design.
What should I wear to my appointment? We encourage everyone to get as naked as possible. We’ve seen everyone in their bras, underwear, and socks. We have a bathroom that doubles as a dressing room if you prefer privacy. Come with whatever you have on that day, but feel free to bring some of your basics and go-to pieces if you want to make it more real.
I don’t know which to buy…the navy shirt or the cashmere jacket? When in doubt, buy both. Life is too short, so go for it!
How and where is everything made? Everything is made in NYC's Garment District. The Duckies design everything. Patterns are done by either Lisa or Tashi. We purchase all of our fabrics from Italy, France, England, and Japan.
How do I care for a Duckie Brown piece? We used to say, “Dry clean in Paris only.” But in reality, most things we sell can be put in the washer-dryer. A few things do better hand-washed, and some just need to be dry-cleaned. We will tell you what’s what.
Oh my - I’ve been wearing your trousers for the last 15 minutes - what does that mean? If you’ve been wearing something from the collection for more than 10 minutes - it’s yours -obviously - you want it, so buy it.
Does this fit me? How do I look? Fit is a very personal thing. But remember, there are no rules. If you feel good in it and like how you look in it, it fits—it’s yours!
Do you work with stylists and celebrities? We have many stylists and celebrities shop the collection. Since many of our pieces are one-of-a-kind or two-of-a-kind, and because we sell everything we design, we rarely lend out for events or photo shoots. We won’t say we never lend out our pieces - but almost never…..
Can I put something on hold? Those who hold don’t buy - and those who buy don’t hold.
Do you accept returns? We’re too small; all sales are final. We’ve only had one person ask for a return in 23 years.
We love Duckie TV. Who is writing your scripts? We are never scripted. Everything we do on Duckie TV (and here) is just turn on the video and let it rip. What you see is what you get—all in one take—all the warts and all the love.
xoxoxo The Duckies