For such a shadowy, gray part of New York City, the Garment District has lots of lovely architectural ornaments—especially of animals.
One example: these terra cotta peacocks, which sit above the freight elevator entrance at 135 West 36th Street.
They’re part of the Fashion Tower, a 17-story neo-Gothic structure just west of Sixth Avenue designed by Emery Roth in 1922.
Why peacocks, a bird that symbolizes immortality and renewal?
“Peacocks are a traditional symbol of women’s fashion, often appearing as ornament on women’s fashion boutiques,” the terrific site skyscraper.com tells us.
The Fashion Tower has more decorative elements worth a look.
The sixth floor facade features friezes of a woman looking in the mirror and another holding a spindle.
They’re homages to the industry that gave the neighborhood its name.
Ephemeral New York 