Downtown's Nancy, Schmancy and Fancy+Pants boutiques get ready for fall

Nancy, Schmancy, Fancy+Pants – there's a lot happening on this short block on Second Avenue. The newest shop is Nancy, a tiny gallery and gift shop owned by artists Kate Greiner and Aaron Murray, who are husband and wife. It's an eclectic collection of their creations as well as revolving works from other artists. You'll find Greiner's handmade cards and dreamy paintings and Murray's miniature two-faced animal totem poles among the offerings.

Sally Brock combined her two stores, Fancy and Pants. Now you can buy Brock's whimsical sterling silver rings and earrings to go with your funky Ginch Gonch underwear printed with little piggies or your silk underpants by Mary Green.

Schmancy owner Kristin Rask moved into the larger space and continues to attract a cult following for her bizarre and endearing collection of toys. Rask and Brock will host a month-long plush toy exhibit, Plush You!, kicking it off with a reception on Oct. 6 at 5 p.m. More than 100 artists will have their works available. Toys range from felt foods such as the donuts by Sewdorky and ham slices by Mr. Pickles to Siamese Sock Monkeys by Blackbird Fashion. Who could resist gifts like these? For more information visit http://www.plushyou.blogspot.com.

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