Los Angeles–based designer-consignment boutique DecadesTwo is popping up in New York for the third time next week, offering garb from designers like Marc Jacobs, Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton for 30 to 60 percent off retail. The man behind the brand is Christos Garkinos, a former Virgin vice-president with high connections and a taste for labels (co-owner Cameron Silver runs Decades, the company’s vintage-couture arm). Garkinos maintains a clientele of socialites and celebrities with closets full of never-worn clothes — one recent prized find is a leather-and-fur Tom Ford handbag from the wardrobe of a former Vogue staffer. Next week’s pop-up promises a particularly well-edited stash, including 50 pieces by Alexander McQueen, a worn-once Balmain dress from last season (at 70 percent off), and a slew of Louboutins and Manolo Blahniks for $150 on the last day. We chatted with Garkinos about his affinity for YSL patent-leather sneakers and Tom Ford suits — just not together.
Who are your favorite designers?
I’ve always loved McQueen, and I was obsessed with Cloak. I’m also a huge YSL shoe freak: I have all the patent-leather sneakers from the last five or six years.
What’s the first designer item you ever bought?
An old-school Prada wallet when I was 20.
Where do you like to shop in New York?
Tom Ford for shirts, Jeffrey for the shoe selection, and everything in the Rick Owens store downtown. I have to be careful — I walk in there and start getting shivers.
How would you describe your personal style?
There’s a duality to it. I grew up in Grosse Point, Michigan, where it was super, super preppy, so sometimes it’s time to put on a plaid shirt and khakis. But other days I’m dressed head-to-toe in Rick Owens. I walk my dogs in my Rick Owens sweats; they’re so comfortable.
What trends are you appreciating right now?
I’m loving the color scope this season, especially orange and persimmon. And I’ll definitely be rocking a plaid suit this spring.
What trends are you ready to see retired?
I love sneakers, but the whole sneakers-with-a-suit look makes me nuts. I also wish more designers would cut clothes for a taller guy. I love Band of Outsiders, but Scott Sternberg is designing for his own body.
Louboutin booties, $360 at the pop-up.
