Where This NYC Makeup Artist Finds Used Books on Avenue A

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New York City has more stores than anyone could physically tackle, but somehow we always keep returning to the usual suspects. To break out of the rut, we've asked some local shopping and fashion gurus to provide their hidden retail gems—those unique stores around our fantastic city that we might not all know about. Cue the Beatles: We're about to get a little help from our friends.

Image via Mast Books

New York-based makeup artist Kristin Gallegos studied classical ballet for eight years, then switched gears and obtained her aesthetician license in an effort to dive head first into the world of skincare. She's trained with some of the industry's best make up artists (like Dick Page and Lisa Butler) and has worked with photographers like Terry Richardson and Patrick Demarchelier. While strolling through the East Village, she stops at Mast Books, a sign-less store in Alphabet City that houses used books in pretty perfect condition.

Mast Books is my favorite used bookstore in the city. It's a little gem I stumbled upon while walking on Ave A on my way to Takahashi, my favorite sushi spot. Upon first glance it doesn't look like a used bookshop as it's really small and there are no signs. But what I love most is the way that it is set up, as it creates a very inviting atmosphere. Not only is it well-curated, but it really caters to the downtown crowd with their fantastic selection. I never ever walk out of Mast Books without purchasing something.

· Mast Books [Official Site]
· Kristin Gallegos [Official Site]
· All Shopping Confidential Posts [Racked NY]

Mast Books

66 Avenue A New York NY 10009