A thousand people lined up to get carded last night outside of Space Ninety 8, the five-story Urban Outfitters concept store officially opening today in Williamsburg.
“Make It Rain” thudded through the speakers as members of the press tried to chew themselves buzzed, snacking on alcoholic People’s Pops (peach and orange blossom with bitters, rhubarb and tarragon with tequila, something with rum). If that didn’t work, there were two bars serving Brooklyn Brewery beer (one on the roof and another at The Gorbals, Ilan Hall’s restaurant on the third floor, which opens in May). Hall catered the event with hors d’oeuvres of bacon-wrapped matzo balls, crunchy meatballs with pesto, deep-fried sweet and sour radishes, and mini grilled cheeses.
Although this was technically a preview, the cash registers were manned with employees eager to ring up all sort of Urbanophilia (Hershel backpacks, jelly shoes, tees with Elvis Presley’s mugshot, books on henna tattoos, Kanye West greeting cards). The entryway was devoted to Brooklyn-made goods: labels included Talon, Fay Andrada, Julie Thevenot, Hartland Brooklyn, Lila Rice, DGIMI (Dear God It’s Me Isaac), Odette, Cold Picnic, Recreation Center, Bailey Doesn’t Bark, Chen Chen & Kai Williams, Fischer Clothing, MSC Skincare, Throne Watches, Horse Cycles and more.
The line to create a complimentary bouquet from James’s Daughters resembled Sunny’s Florist on Valentine’s Day. If we’re supposed to apply the store’s decorating aesthetic to our own apartments, we’re seriously lacking in Southwestern textiles, rope, and plants planted in non-plant-holders.
Tonight’s launch party from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. will feature custom scents from S.W. Basics and treats from http Charlotte Patisserie, both of Greenpoint.
Click through the slideshow to see what else was on offer.
98 N. 6th St. between Berry St. and Wythe Ave.; Williamsburg, 718-599-0209; Mon. to Sat. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.