Despite the minimalist interior, there’s an old-world spirit to Zero as well as the remarkably modern wares housed here. Maria Cornejo, the Chilean-born designer and owner of the renowned boutique, runs her studio out of this NoLIta retail space, which was formerly a garage until Cornejo took up residence here in 1998. Cornejo, whose designs are a favorite among fashion insiders (and are also available at Barneys New York), gained notoriety in Japan during the 1980s when she and a partner owned over 20 stores there.

In this retail incarnation, however, Cornejo has taken a more focused turn, applying her attention to the one-on-one interaction with customers who frequent her space. Contrary to the haughtiness of many well-known fashion designers, Cornejo delights in servicing her clients personally, assisting them with finding just the right Zero piece. Cornejo’s approach is somewhat experimental (think the more feminine side of Yohji), but her unconventionality yields a refreshing timelessness and ease, making Zero wares flattering and easy to integrate with other labels and looks.