Pumps & Pleats: Sweet treats at Kiwi

Story and photos by Michèle De Meglio

Winter is on its chilly way and that means it’s time for warm and cozy sweaters.

Kiwi, a quaint boutique in Park Slope, has a luxurious collection of the softest sweaters around. Some of the prices may be steep but these garments are clearly investment pieces that will easily outlast an itchy $15 mess from Old Navy.

At $289, a chunky red sweater inspires images of sipping hot cocoa in front of a roaring fireplace. The perfect knit is so divine it could make any Polartec pullover from L.L. Bean drool.

A sleek cobalt cardigan ($95) replaces traditional vertical buttons with a chic tie at the waist. Nothing could be better for a day at the office when you’re feeling under the weather and in need of a warm cotton shelter.

Kiwi offers much more than sweet sweaters. The boutique has pretty party dresses, darling daywear and brilliant boots, including a gorgeous pair of thigh-high suede boots from Sam Edelman for $189.

Shoppers can also purchase custom-made clothes designed by Kiwi co-owner Christine Alcalay, who trained under Christian Lacroix in Paris. Choose the style (swing coats or classic suits) and the fabric (wool or cashmere). Prices range from $895 to $1295.

Unless you have the mayor’s lush bank account, buying one of these pieces is a serious decision, one that could leave you without a month’s rent.

On the other hand, they’re really pretty! And remember, Stacy London, fashion guru on TLC’s “What Not to Wear” and a longtime Carroll Gardens resident, says, “If you do a little cost per wear, it’s less over time.”

Rationalized like a true fashionista!

Kiwi is located at 119 Seventh Avenue. For hours call 718-622-5551 or visit www.kiwidesignco.com.

Michèle De Meglio is a native Brooklynite addicted to all things chic. Check out Pumps & Pleats each week for more adventures as she scours the borough for fab duds and accessories.