I’ve been a fan of Tinsel Trading for a very long time. It’s located in Manhattan’s historic millinery and trim district. There are few words, which send a rush of imagery through my mind more than “notions,” “trims,” and “dressmaker’s details.” Ribbons, flowers, buttons, beads, metallic thread and decorative embellishments can be found at Tinsel Trading.
Other than intrinsic nostalgic charm, what makes this c. 1930s shop stand out from the others is the story of a granddaughter, who carried on her grandfather’s vision into the modern day. He had provided metal thread and embroidery to the government during WWII. At the war’s conclusion, he expanded his business, and began an active search for any and all embellishments dating before the 1950s. As the decades passed, hundreds of boxes piled and congregated in his basement - many unopened - filled with glass beads, spooled wire, ombre ribbon, and even beetles used for jewelry making! What amassed was so spectacular, so untouched, and had qualities much like an archeological dig that a book was written on its findings, Treasured Notions by French General’s Kaari Meng.
Today, this granddaughter, Marcia Ceppos still helms the shop straddling the new and old in the world of notions. And, if I may say, in masterful fashion. Visit The Tinsel Trading Company the next time you come to New York here.
I love Tinsel Trading and own some of the metallic fringe Marcia's grandfather stored in the basement. You can always find something unique in her shop.
Best...Victoria
Posted by: Victoria Athens | February 28, 2013 at 04:56 AM
Victoria, I agree! I had a hard time editing down all the great pics I took.
Posted by: Tisha@TISLstyle | February 28, 2013 at 05:32 AM
It's like a candy store!
Posted by: Eugenia | February 28, 2013 at 06:42 AM