Byas and Leon: Bed-Stuy Boutique blends sustainability, community, and Haitian culture  

Byas & Leon, a vintage clothing and lifestyle boutique in Bed-Stuy, is redefining purposeful commerce through a blend of community, sustainability, and Haitian heritage. Located at 404 Tompkins Ave., the shop is the brainchild of longtime best friends and business partners Ronny Byas and Harvey Leon, who have been building their vision for over 25 years.

The journey began in 2010 following Haiti’s devastating earthquake. Byas, whose father did business in Haiti, partnered with local tailors to produce hand-sewn clothing, supporting artisans on the ground for nearly a decade.

In 2018, the duo expanded their vision to Brooklyn, incorporating vintage clothing into their business model. “Vintage is inherently sustainable,” Byas said. “It aligns with our goal to produce as little waste as possible.” Their eco-conscious approach also includes using sustainable packaging and eliminating printed receipts.

Byas credits his master’s degree in urban planning to shape his sustainability philosophy. “A sustainability course changed how I approach consumption,” he said, inspiring him to support ethical businesses and reduce waste.

The boutique also highlights handcrafted goods celebrating Haitian culture. From hand-rolled incense by Byas’s sister to perfumes made by his family in Haiti, the shop features unique, ethically sourced products, including petroleum-free candles crafted by a South Carolina family. 

Byas & Leon opened just before the pandemic and endured financial challenges during its early days. “We incurred a lot of debt to stay afloat,” Byas said. But these past two years have been incredible.”

More than a store, Byas & Leon serves as a community hub, offering a welcoming space for conversation, drinks, and events. “It’s a real community,” Byas explained. “If you’re having a bad day, stop by and connect with us.”

The pair plans to expand their online presence, take their mobile vintage shop, a converted 1970s trailer, on the road, and eventually open a second location.

For now, the boutique remains a testament to friendship, cultural pride, and sustainable living. Visit Byas & Leon at 404 Tompkins Ave. and experience what they call “intentional living, inspired by community.”