New York is not just the city that never sleep because of it’s party energy but also because of its diverse shopping opportunities. From grabbing a bargain, to high end boutique’s to silly souvenirs, shopping in New York is a sport of it’s own. So, get ready, grab your credit card, lace-up those trainers, and let’s go. A retail wonderland awaits and for the shopaholics – this is the city of dream shopping!
5th Avenue
Starting strong with one of the reasons New York is so famous for shopping – 5th Avenue. From the opulent flagship stores of global fashion powerhouses such as Armani and Burberry to the infamous department stores such as Saks. This avenue is a testament to New York City’s status as a global fashion capital. Amidst the bustling energy and architectural splendour, Fifth Avenue isn’t merely a shopping street; it’s a fashion pilgrimage, and a symbol of the city’s style and sophistication. For all stores on 5th Avenue, this is a useful list.
Tiffany & Co. Flagship Store on 5th Avenue.
Singling this store out for it’s own spot in this shopping guide, as this is not a shop – this is a cleverly curated experience. Whether you are a fan of the movie, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, or its beautifully presented famous blue box. Or maybe it’s the crockery – yes they sell wine glasses and mugs and all sorts of amazing things to make for the perfect gift. Whatever your reason for loving this store and whether you have the budget to buy or not – it doesn’t matter. This is the ‘Pretty Woman’ shopping experience in reverse! Everyone is made to feel valued whether you are window shopping, visiting the café – yes you van have Breakfast at Tiffany’s – read here for more on that, or maybe you came to buy up their diamonds, then it will not disappoint.
For fan’s of the film then you are in for a treat. My latest visit in 2023 I found there was new, small, installation tribute to the film. It even has the clip of Andrey eating her breakfast outside the store. If you haven’t seen the film then you may be confused, if you see any girls dressed up in little black dresses with pearls – it’s a homage to Audrey! It is a cult film! If however you are coming to make an actual purchase then do make sure it’s in stock! Yes, seriously – the disappointment of wanting to own a NYC Tiffany’s piece of jewellery from this original store, is a lot! My second top shopping tip here is, if you are getting something engraved allow at least 24 hrs for it to be done – so don’t leave it to your last day to get that gift!
Macey’s Department Store
Founded in the 1800’s, with a permanent residency at herald square since 1902, this store is where the magic happens. It is a shopping paradise, offering an extensive selection of fashion, beauty, home goods, and some of the best Christmas decorations! If you happen to be in NYC from mid September then their Christmas selection will be starting to appear. Perfect for nabbing festive gifts.
Despite still holding on to the claim they are the worlds’ largest store – they actually lost that crown in 2009 to South Korean store 3 times its size! Despite that, it is still huge and I find Macey’s one the best stores for bagging a bargain. It can be a bit of a cross between TXMax and Debenhams in its layout – especially when it’s the sales. But be persistent, persevere through the aisles, navigate the racks and by digging deep you’ll find some true designer gems that you obviously ‘need’. Like some other stores Macy’s also stays open late. Every day till 9pm and 10pm on a Friday and Saturday.
But Macey’s is not just a store, it is embedded in New York Thanksgiving culture as it hosts the annual Thanksgiving Parade. Floats, celebrities, bands and super sized balloons weave through the streets of NYC for 3 hours in the morning of Thanksgiving. It’s televised for the world to share in these celebrations and festivities. And 2024 will see the 100th anniversary of this institution that ironically started as marketing ploy! Smartly showcasing the store and kicking off the holiday shopping spirit byholding this parade.
Bloomingdales
This is another classic department store and one ‘Friends’ fans will have heard of a lot – as it’s where ‘Rachel’ worked and was obsessed shopping in. The exterior boasts a distinctive brownstone façade, setting the stage for the upscale shopping haven within. As such, I found it much more pricey than Macey’s – more likened to Selfridges or Harvey Nichols. There are also 9 stores in NYC so you can take your pick but the head office (and ‘Rachel’s office) is based on 59th Street and Lexington Avenue if you want the true experience!
Their motto is, ‘It’s not just what you buy – it’s what you take it home in, too.’ The first store to create designer bags that became as important as the item inside. They are also famed for pioneering in sustainability. It was back in 1973 they introduced The Big Brown Bag – a paper shopping bag . This was followed by the Little brown bag and now the medium one too. Walking out of the store with one of these feels like a purchase in itself. In fact you can now buy bags that are banded so, they have become a cult shopping must have souvenir.
Broadway
Specifically from Canal Street to Bleeker Street on Broadway. This street is full of all the stores from H&M, Zara and Uniqlo through to Bloomingdales if you are fancying a day of shopping. There is even the Museum of Ice Cream if you need a sweet stop!
Forever 21 in Times Square
Forever 21– The flagship fast fashion store and playground for teens and the young is based at Times Square. (Along with plenty of other high street classics and plenty more) It’s the accessible fashion hub set in the heart of the vibrant energy of the city that never sleeps – open till 11pm (12am on weekends) this is not just shopping this is a hang out.
Chelsea Market
Originally developed in the 1890’s this was the site of the National Biscuit Company who gave us the oh so delicious Oreo Cookie. The site, in the Meat Packing district, was redeveloped in 1990’s into the vibrant Chelsea Market of today filled with boutiques, restaurants, specialty shops, and artisans. I loved this gorgeous little shopping area and may or may not have have spent a bit too much in the enticing Anthropology store. Side note, it is also super close to an all time favourite rooftop bar, Le Bain at the Standard Hotel. So you can rooftop and relax after such spending!
World Trade Centre Westfield.
Yes this is at the site of ground zero and for that reason I’ve not felt comfortable going shopping here but it is the largest shopping centre in Manhattan so i am including it.
Flea Markets in New York
The city is littered with markets and jewels waiting to be found. Two of the most famous markets are the the Brooklyn and Chelsea flea markets but on the weekend you will find lots of local markets. One of the best districts for bagging a bargain is in Williamsburg , which has gained more and more popularity likening to a London, Crouch End vibe. But for a list of the best click here.
Souvenir shopping
I am a massive fan of a souvenir shop. Whether it’s a hoodie and a snow globe, for my collections or silly or thoughtful gifts for friends and family. There are hundreds of gift stores littering the city to buy a classic NYC baseball cap or maybe some Trump chocolate (there is also loo roll too!) As I mentioned earlier, if you are there from September then you’ll also find New York themed Christmas decorations which make great gifts.
When ever I go to NYC someone always suggests I take a second case for the shopping. Yes, if this article hadn’t given it away then yes, I am a shopaholic – probably the ADHD in me,! It is one of the best dopamine hits. But, and this will sound obvious but unlike usual shopping hits – you can’t take these purchases back when miles away at home. This is true for most big cities but as New York is notorious for its magnetic energy I find wanting to bottle it in a purchase does feel compelling, so sharing as maybe you might need to consider a second case too!
And after all that shopping, recuperating on a rooftop bar is in order… for the best of those click here.