Even the most intrepid shoppers are occasionally freaked out by the maddening crowds of Manhattan's retail scene—ever cruise NoLIta on a Sunday? Instead of popping a valium, consider sneaking off to the serene streets of Brooklyn Heights for a little off-the-radar retail fix. Situated on a blossoming section of Atlantic Avenue, surrounded by some of the best antiques stores in the city, this elegantly merchandised, minimalist space was once a shoe store until owners (and sisters), Eva and Robin Weiss opened this gallery-like clothing shop five years ago. The pair slowly eased their progressive style sensibility into this fashion-challenged neighborhood by first selling Levi's and other basics. However, today, Butter carries a superb assortment of established European designers and on-the-verge New York names. Among the labels stocked here are Dries van Noten, Sissi Rossi, Rick Owens, and Kristensen du Nord.

There's also a formidable shoe collection, which features Belgian innovators Dries van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester, and N.D.C. alongside Italian designers like Henry Beguelin. Eva and Robin are always on the lookout for fresh labels and introduce them regularly. Among the more noteworthy of the bunch are New York-based duo Vena Cava who at a young age have already generated a huge buzz in the fashion world with their graphic, yet elegant patterns and intricate cutouts.