Strange Ways

Thank you from California, Strange Ways!
I had been chasing after the Sad Truth Supply «Zissou Sane» enamel lapel pin or back patch for a while, but it was especially hard to track down after Bowie passed away recently (RIP Thin White Duke). I was SO excited to see that a 4″ version of the patch was available exclusively through Strange Ways, and luckily I was able to snatch one before they sold out. It is a thing of beauty.
Shipping was fast and my item arrived when it was promised. I appreciated the minimal packaging which probably helped my patch go through the mail quickly as it was delivered right to my mailbox via USPS.
In checking out the other items they offer on their website, it looks like my husband and I might be making more purchases very soon. If I ever find myself in New Haven, I’ll certainly check out the brick and mortar! I could not be happier with my experience with Strange Ways.

Man, I’ve spent so much money at strange ways, it’s not even funny.
Great patches and stickers and buttons. Lots of quirky items. Great products for beards and facial hair. One of the best NON-​CORPORATE places to get cool men’s clothing in New Haven/​Hamden (so it you don’t want to look like everyone else wearing the same old stuff from Urban Outfitters).
Owner is super cool, works with a bunch of artists in the area – I feel like every time I’m in there, he’s got someone working on a chalk mural or something. Great boutique for unusual fashion and accessories and local art.

I’ve lived in New Haven for a year and I’m…lukewarm on it. This shop opened up a few months ago and has honestly made a big difference in how I feel about living here. It has personality, it’s fun, it’s different, there’s always something new going on, and the owner is really friendly. My husband has a backpack from here, not to mention almost every single tee shirt they’ve ever carried, and he gets compliments on them constantly. I wore a necklace I got here for our engagement photo shoot. It’s also becoming kind of a hang-​out spot in addition to just being a neat store. They just got an arcade with like 50+ different games on it, which I LOVE. And they’ve started carrying vintage sodas and candies – best cream soda ever! I live in East Rock but I’ve started spending more time in Westville because it’s starting to feel more like a cohesive neighborhood instead of just that place with the two brunch restaurants. New Haven needs more places like Strange Ways, and I always feel good shopping there because I know I’m helping support a local business and make New Haven a better place to live.

Great, unique selection, fast shipping, A+ customer service.

Strange Ways is still pretty new but they’re already my favorite store in New Haven. Their stuff is truly one of a kind, with tons of amazing products from independent artists (including some local folks). They’ve got patches, pins, clothes, accessories, home goods, art, zines… And lots of it is American made or exclusive to Strange Ways. You honestly won’t find this stuff anywhere else in New Haven, or maybe even the entire state.
They also host cool events like live chalkboard mural illustrations, and they have an arcade game in the back with tons of old school games like Donkey Kong and Ms. Pac Man. I like their vintage candy and soda, too, but I especially love that they have locally made cold brew iced coffee… I think they’re the only place on that side of town where you can get cold brew. Anyway, I’m so glad Strange Ways exists. I love that I can support a small business full of amazing and completely unique stuff, and I love that they’re fostering creativity and making New Haven a more exciting place. Check them out!