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Style File: Vintage Prom

Joseph V. Amodio

March 24, 2008

It's that scary time of year again for teenage girls and their moms. Prom-dress time. Pricey, mass-produced, cookie-cutter dresses seem such a waste in these recession-ish times. Vintage dresses, however, are romantic, one-of-a-kind, with an air of mystery.

And, trust us, that whole air-of- mystery thing is way underrated. Dress hunters should check out Unique-Vintage.com, an online source for vintage (or vintage-inspired) styles as far back as 1920s flapper dresses. Some reproductions are refreshingly affordable (like this Pucci-like satin slipdress with criss-cross back, $78).

It requires a keen eye - some items are costumey, or just plain tacky. And true-blue vintage is mixed with reproductions ... even in the so-called "Vintage" category (read descriptions carefully). Still, there's plenty of selection. Be alert to sizing details (vintage sizes run smaller). go to unique-vintage.com. - Joseph V. Amodio

Pop-up shopping

The "pop-up store" - a shop that opens for a short period, perhaps weeks, sometimes only days - has been all the rage in recent years for brands looking to build buzz. Nike, Target, Illy coffeemakers, Meow Mix - even the U.S. Potato Board - have tried it. So this month up pops the Supima Store, devoted to Supima cotton (super-soft Pima cotton from top growers). The SoHo shop stocks apparel, including comfy Three Dots tees, cool Gilded Age denim, plus knitwear, dresses and more. Shoppers also will enjoy refreshments, compilation CD giveaways and interactive art events. Supima Store, 72 Greene St., open daily 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., only till April 13. For info, visit supimastore.com.- Joseph V. Amodio