British Invasion
This article is from the archive of The New York Sun before the launch of its new website in 2022. The Sun has neither altered nor updated such articles but will seek to correct any errors, mis-categorizations or other problems introduced during transfer.

British young professional men and women looking for stylish clothing within their budgets turn to Reiss, a chain with more than 25 stores in England. Last week, Reiss opened its first store outside of the U.K., in Manhattan.
Located on West Broadway, in SoHo, the shop caters to men and women with a taste for design and accents of luxury. From casual wear to suits to accessories, the look has the elegance of Calvin Klein, at more affordable prices.
Founded in 1998 by owner David Reiss, the brand originated as a menswear line. But after realizing that the “bridge” market – slightly higher-end clothing with prices that professionals in their 20s and 30s could manage – he expanded the line to women’s clothing as well.
At the new shop in SoHo, rows of tubular glass hang from the ceiling in a geometric pattern, and a floor of dark wood gives the space the feel of a cozy lounge.
On the women’s side, pieces are grouped by color, with white shrunken blazers mixed in with white casual skirts ($180). There’s a wide selection of colorful accessories, including wide woven belts ($125) and gold strappy sandals ($280). Dresses range from a flowing orange beaded dress ($395) to a silk teal slip dress ($300).
For men, the suits are sharp with a traditional but international look (about $850). A black fitted blazer that’s light enough to be worn in summer comes in a strong cut ($435). The men’s shoes range from traditional lace ups to cowboy boot-inspired slip-ons (both $270).
When shopping at Reiss, remember that the sizes are British. So if you’re an 8 and the salesperson hands you a 12, don’t be offended.
Reiss, 387 West Broadway, 212-925-5707.