The Devil Wears Vintage™: Thrift New York

Lexy Silverstein
5 min readApr 22, 2024

Furnish Green in Chelsea

As I made my way through the East Village, ticking off stores on my must-visit thrift and vintage list in New York City, I stumbled upon something unexpected on E. 24th Street. It wasn’t on my list. I had never heard of it and I wasn’t planning on shopping there but the entranceway caught my eye and pulled me in. The bright green color alone of the storefront demanded my attention, and as I read the sign above the door, I felt a surge of curiosity. Furnish Green. What was behind those colorful doors?

Yes it was the practically neon green paint and two very cool retro chairs in a living room setting, that grabbed my attention first. Each piece seemed to have its own story, inviting me to take a closer look. With a mix of anticipation, I pushed open the door and stepped inside, ready to see what Furnish Green had to offer. What I found was…..well freaking amazing!

Affordable Luxury

I fell in love as I first walked in. That’s not unusual when I walk into a cool vintage shop, but then I always start to look at the price tags and usually find out that I can only window shop. That’s such a bummer. But this place was different. I mean it’s not Goodwill prices, but there were pieces that looked near antique and the prices were beyond decent. So turns out one of the most striking aspects of Furnish Green is its commitment to making vintage furniture affordable. Who knew there was such a place? While many vintage stores in the city might come with hefty price tags, Furnish Green defies this trend by offering its treasures at a fraction of the cost. In fact, customers often find that prices at Furnish Green are merely a third of what they would expect to pay elsewhere.

This is the front of the store located at 132 1/2 W 24th St, New York, NY 10011.

Furnish Green in Chelsea
Furnish Green in Chelsea

The retro chairs in the window were about $400 each. Not the cheapest but they were in mint condition and you would pay more in retail.

These exquisite green chairs below cost about $360.

Here is a Scales of Justice Clock for $94

Furnish Green’s Origin Story:

I had to find out more about this place so of course I googled. Furnish Green is more than just a vintage furniture store; it’s a manifestation of one man’s passion for retro aesthetics and exceptional deals. Founded by Nathan Hescock, the store was born out of his love for vintage furniture and his knack for finding remarkable pieces at unbeatable prices.

The story of Furnish Green traces back to Nathan’s days as a ballroom dance instructor. Seeking to create a distinctive ambiance for his dance studio, he decorated it with retro furnishings and antique décor sourced at pocket-friendly prices. Little did he know that his students would soon become enamored with these pieces, often leaving dance lessons with furniture in tow.

A Unique Shopping Experience:

What sets Furnish Green apart is its commitment to offering an ever-changing inventory of vintage treasures. With 25–30 new items added daily, the store ensures that every visit is a new adventure, promising something special for every visitor.

Whether you love mid-century modernism or you’re an admirer of art deco elegance, industrial chic, or simply someone with a penchant for all things funky, Furnish Green caters to diverse tastes and preferences. From retro sofas to vintage lighting fixtures, from quirky knick-knacks to statement pieces, there’s something to captivate every imagination.

Contributing to the Community

Beyond offering unique furnishings at affordable prices, Furnish Green plays an integral role in contributing to the fabric of the city. By keeping vintage furniture accessible and affordable, it ensures that New Yorkers from all walks of life can decorate their spaces with character and charm, without breaking the bank.

Furnish Green isn’t just a vintage furniture, lighting and clothing store; it’s a testament to the enduring allure of retro aesthetics, the thrill of discovering hidden treasures, and the joy of making unique finds accessible to all. With its ever-changing inventory, friendly atmosphere, and unbeatable prices, it’s no wonder that Furnish Green has become a beloved fixture in Chelsea and beyond. So, whether you’re a seasoned vintage aficionado or simply on the lookout for that one-of-a-kind piece to elevate your space, Furnish Green invites you to step inside and embark on a journey of discovery.

Lexy Silverstein, Sustainable Fashion Advocate
Lexy Silverstein, Devil Wears Vintage: Thrift New York

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Lexy Silverstein

Lexy Silverstein is a sustainable fashion influencer educating her peers about the dangers of fast fashion. IG:@LexySilverstein Email: LexySilverstein@gmail.com