Our Guide to Women-Owned Businesses on the Upper East & Upper West Side
As a women-founded and mostly women-run business, Women’s History Month always feels extra special to us at The Niche Shop. Supporting other women in business is something we try to do all year long—but March is the perfect excuse to shout them out a little louder.
Last year we rounded up women-owned vintage stores across NYC (and if you haven’t read that yet, go check it out!). This year we’re zooming in on our own neighborhood with a guide to some of our favorite women-owned businesses on the Upper East Side and Upper West Side.
From florists to bakeries to craft studios, these are the places where you can shop, sip, create, and support women in NYC all month long.
Upper East Side
Art in Flowers II
A woman-owned floral studio known for its artistic arrangements and above-and-beyond service. Martha has been serving the Upper East Side stunning, one-of-a-kind floral designs since 1996, and they always feel a little extra special.
Address: 320 E 81st St, New York, NY 10028
Earth Works Pottery
Recently reopened, this charming ceramics shop owned by Shannon showcases beautiful handcrafted pottery and offers classes ranging from beginner to expert. Earth Works is a true get-your-hands-dirty creative studio.
Address: 1705 1st Ave, New York, NY 10128
Lisa’s on Second
A hidden gem on the Upper East Side, Lisa’s on Second is a treasure trove of unique gifts you truly won’t find anywhere else. Lisa herself is often around and always happy to help you track down the perfect little something.
Address: 1751 2nd Ave Frnt 3, New York, NY 10128
Rita’s Needlepoint
One of the oldest needlepoint shops in the country, founded in 1973 by Rita Klein. It’s the go-to spot for beautifully crafted canvases, custom designs, and everything you need to start stitching.
Address: 303 E 81st St, New York, NY 10028
Bespoke Brows
With locations on both the UES and UWS, this female-founded beauty studio specializes in customized brow shaping and microblading for that natural, polished look.
Upper West Side: 100 W 72nd St, New York, NY 10023
Upper East Side: 1566 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
The Fashion Class
A unique women-led business that teaches kids and teens the art of sewing, fashion design, and entrepreneurship. Founder Kerri Quigley built the program around creativity and confidence, and it’s become a staple for young designers in NYC.
Upper East Side: 307 E 84th St, New York, NY 10028
Upper West Side: 2391 Broadway, New York, NY 10024
Upper West Side
Runaway Poppy
A thoughtfully curated boutique focused on sustainability and timeless style. Owner Cara Millings personally curates jewelry, ceramics, artwork, books, and accessories inspired by her travels and favorite artists.
Address: 2244 Broadway, New York, NY 10024
Magpie
Sylvia Parker has created the perfect UWS gift shop. Magpie’s shelves are filled with beautifully curated eco-friendly, sustainable, and fair-trade goods—many created by local artisans.
Address: 488 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
The Sunshinery
A local New York City gift shop located on the Upper West Side. Jennifer Simoni, the founder, focuses on featuring pieces also from women owned businesses, the perfect spot to find thoughtful gifts for all occasions.
Address: 551 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024
Janie’s Life-Changing Baked Goods
Home of the iconic pie crust cookie, this woman-owned bakery serves sweet nostalgia with a modern twist. Founder Janie also goes above and beyond giving back to her community.
Address: 212 W 80th St, New York, NY 10024
Studio 79
A stylish female-founded boutique and creative studio by Marialuisa Garito. Home to the brands Affordable Chic and Virve Jewelry, Studio 79 celebrates creativity, community, and accessible luxury—and regularly hosts cultural events and performances.
Address: 224 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024
One of the best parts about living in New York is discovering small businesses that are driven by creativity, community, and passion—and so many of them are led by incredible women.
This Women’s History Month, consider spending a little extra time (and maybe a little extra cash) at women-owned businesses in NYC. Every purchase helps support the people shaping our neighborhoods and keeping the city creative.
And of course, if you’re on the Upper East or Upper West Side, don’t forget to stop by The Niche Shop while you’re out supporting women
Know any other amazing women-owned spots in NYC?
Drop them in the comments—we’re always looking to uplift more incredible businesses.
