Cool Local Chains

Cool Local Chains

Following are the best of the local chain stores, the places New Yorkers head to in a fashion pinch.

Calypso. An island-vacation vibe swept the city in the form of Calypso's colorful silk women's wear, dangly jewelry, and boho housewares. The flagship's now on Madison Avenue; several themed branches, including an outlet and one dedicated to sample sales, cluster downtown. 815 Madison Ave., between E. 68th and E. 69th Sts., Upper East Side, 10021. 212/585-0310. Subway: 6 to 68th St./Hunter College.

Ricky's. The loud and fun drugstores attract an eclectic, mostly young crowd who come just as often for the crazy-color wigs or fishnet stockings as they do for the body glitter and Neutrogena soap. Every fall the stores turn into Halloween central, with a huge assortment of feather boas, masks, and spray-on hair color. 590 Broadway, at Prince St., SoHo, 10012. 212/226-5552.

Scoop. These clothes help you fit in with the too-cool-to-dress-up crowd. They have lots of jeans (limited-edition Levi's, Chip & Pepper), slinky tops, vintage-looking tees, and rugby shirts. The SoHo branch is for women only. 1273-1277 3rd Ave., between E. 73rd and E. 74th Sts., Upper East Side, 10021. 212/535-5577.

Searle. Mostly strung along the East Side, these stores have a devoted following for their coats, and there are plenty of other designer items to layer, from cowl-neck sweaters to fitted tees. 1051 3rd Ave., at E. 62nd St., Upper East Side, 10021. 212/838-5990.