John Varvatos Bowery, New York

RIP LOWER EAST SIDE....RIP CBGBs..... F*CK GENTRIFICATION

Worst thing ever to happen to the lower east side

The decor and vibe of this boutique is amazing, rock n' roll glam at its most chic, and it speaks to the location, where the soul of such things has permeated for so long. From the layout to the products, everything is stellar. I've been a follower and customer of John Varvatos since I was a teen, I think it's an amazing label.

However, upon entering, my feelings about the atmosphere changed with the reception I received from the staff. I wasn't greeted by the guard at the door, nor by any of the many employees strewn about the store either attending to menial tasks or standing idle at their register stations. I had come in with an agenda, I called the day before about the sizing availability of a pair of boots. I walked to the boots section without so much as a nod of acknowledgment or smile, so I took to myself to look around for several moments, trying to look perplexed and in need of help, still completely unaccosted, I tried to look out to hail for help, until finally I caught eyes with a particular tall blonde salesman, but he seemed rather displeased that I had, and looked as though he was being bothered. He shuffled his feet reluctantly towards me. He offered me this drawn uninterested expression as I proceeded to inquire my goals for being at the shop, and continued being underwhelmed, constantly hesitating to take any measures to assist me (discuss various products with me, check for product and size availability, etc.). Everything from his tone, body language, and lack of initiative to accommodate me made it clear as day he wasn't there for me.

He also kept asking if I was 'planning on purchasing today' which I found quite rude. He was attending this other middle aged couple, catering to their every whim, chatting them up blithely, absolutely concerned to see their every need met. The dichotomy between who he was with me and who he was with them was clear as day, and his lack of attempt to mask it were plain offensive. Now... I understand sales, and being concerned with commission and wanting to foster a relationship with clientele who are going to be more inclined to want to return to purchase more from you, but what made this gentlemen assume I wasn't one such person? None of the other employees passing me by as I was waiting (exceedingly long) for my turn to be helped regarded my presence in the slightest.

By the end of my experience, the salesman's and staff's continued lack of interest and enthusiasm to help me discouraged my own captivation with my endeavor, so I walked out. I can and will gladly continue ordering my John Varvatos products online. Such a shame for them.

Very interesting shop full of cool dude clothes and music. Yes, you probably aren't cool enough to actually shop here. The decor and staff as well as the clothing are pure rock and roll. The posters and guitar collection as well as amps for sale lend a great vibe though prices are on the high side.

Okay this was posted on 3/22.

This is in regards to whoever was the manager around 4 PM.

I walked in with a pair of jeans, I love his jeans, and the pair I bought must have been defective, they were getting small holes by the pockets for some reason. This is a rare occurrence as the jeans usually last me two years before any signs of wear (and this only because I wear my jeans HARD. lots of walking in NY.) Anyhow, I brought the jeans in to maybe get an exchange.

I was not expecting much, I didn't have a receipt and I had bought them 3 months ago on sale.
This manager TRUSTED me and took my word for the washing machine and brought me a new pair to exchange, no questions asked.
It truly meant a lot to me to be trusted and valued as a customer. It renewed my faith in these guys.

Thanks to you sir, whoever you are. We are indeed "even steven."