Upcycled clothing shop Doodles Closet opens in Lindenhurst
Doodles Closet, named after Nikki Bamundo's daughter, offers custom apparel like upcycled flannels, jean jackets, and other items. Credit: Nikki Bamundo
Nikki Bamundo was cleaning out her daughter’s closet with her best friend, Jessica Basile, when an idea sparked: Instead of throwing away clothes that no longer fit her, they could turn them into something new she'd want to wear.
The women began upcycling old flannels, fabric and T-shirts, giving them a second life. They cut an old band T-shirt and sewed it to the back of a flannel to create a new piece. In 2022, the friends became business partners and began selling the upcycled flannels on Instagram and, later, at pop-up events around Long Island.
Customers often asked " 'Where is your store?' and we didn’t have one. So we decided to just go for it," says Bamundo, 39.
In December they opened Doodles Closet in Lindenhurst. The name is a nod to her daughter's nickname "Doodle."
The business owners also make custom sweatshirts, sweatpants and denim jackets. Each woman has a specialty — Bamundo creates the upcycled flannels and Basile makes the denim jackets.
The jackets can also be upcycled with a band T-shirt sewn on the back or decorated with patches, evil eyes and other designs.
The partners purchase pre-loved apparel from thrift shops and online stores or use pieces found in their own closets to create something new.
Shoppers will also find a charm bar and permanent bracelet section in the store, shoppable by appointment only. Charms to decorate your jewelry include bows, cheer and dance pendants, initials, zodiac signs, sun and moon, anchors, mermaids and Italian horns.
Prices range from $10 for sage to $75 for an upcycled flannel. Permanent bracelets start at $45 and charm necklaces are $30; charm bracelets are $20 and each charm is $5.
Doodles Closet, 9 E. Hoffman Ave. C, Lindenhurst, 631-412-5019.
