The best places to go shopping in New York City

“New York, New York, it’s a helluva town.” It’s also one of the world’s most iconic and beloved shopping destinations – where heritage department stores meet trendsetting boutiques, and where every street corner holds the promise of discovery.

New York shopping is as diverse as the city itself, whether you’re seeking a timeless piece of jewellery to commemorate your trip or scouting the latest cult label before it goes viral or hits international shelves. Below, we rank eight shopping experiences that define the city’s singular style and make it worth dressing up for.  

1. Printemps

This chic Parisian import is among the latest arrivals on the city’s shopping scene. Printemps is a cavernous space dedicated to up-and-coming designers and established names alike. Each floor also features bars and restaurants, so you can indulge in a glamorous glass of champagne while picking up the latest JW Anderson bag or Victoria Beckham lipstick. The showstopper, however, is the shoe salon, where pieces by Dior, Manolo Blahnik and Valentino are displayed beneath a forest of sculptural light installations.

2. Love Adorned 

Stepping into Love Adorned on Elizabeth Street is like entering a curated cabinet of curiosities. This effortlessly cool downtown boutique offers an eclectic mix of one-of-a-kind vintage engagement rings, hand-blown glassware, incense, colognes, perfumes and artisanal kitchenware. Meanwhile, its sister location in Amagansett in The Hamptons carries the same bohemian elegance, with coastal touches to adorn any sophisticated garden party.

3. Bergdorf Goodman 

A New York institution since 1899, Bergdorf Goodman remains the epitome of Fifth Avenue elegance. This legendary department store is home to some of fashion’s most coveted names – Bottega Veneta, Prada, The Row and Anya Hindmarch among them. On the seventh floor, BG Restaurant offers sweeping views of Central Park. So, whether you’re having a leisurely lunch or enjoying afternoon tea, the experience is unmistakably New York.

4. Susan Alexandra 

New York-based designer Susan Alexandra is known for her kitschy, celebrity-favourite beaded creations – from watermelon handbags to custom pet portrait necklaces. Her boutique – playfully dubbed the “Charmacy” – feels like stepping into a museum, where every corner is adorned with beaded treasures. Arts and crafts lovers can even take an in-store beading class and make their own customised charm bracelets.

5. Coming Soon 

Just a few blocks from Susan Alexandra, Coming Soon is the Lower East Side’s cult-favourite design store. Expect vintage finds from Milo Baughman, bold patterned décor by Dusen Dusen and small gifts like martini glasses and coasters. For those with no room to pack a candy-inspired sofa or concrete mirror, there’s still plenty to take home – and every piece carries a dose of New York cool.

6. Kirna Zabête

Among the hippest Soho boutiques since 1999, Kirna Zabête is both a luxury boutique and a true Manhattan shopping mainstay. Not content with conquering New York, the preeminent women’s luxe-fashion store has also opened outposts in Nashville, Tennessee, and Palm Beach, Florida. Head to the Big Apple branch for the latest Loewe sneakers, a classic Missoni mini dress or a Bottega Veneta bag. This sleek and stylish store is a must-visit for any designer-obsessed shopper.

7. Catbird 

Catbird began as a tiny Williamsburg boutique and quickly became the go-to destination for dainty, everyday jewellery. Beloved by celebrities like Taylor Swift and Emma Stone, the brand is known for its gold chain bracelets, engagement rings and playful collaborations with cool-girl icons like Phoebe Bridgers and Jenny Slate.

8. Happier Grocery

For an elite food shopping experience, make your way to Happier Grocery , a Canal Street gem known for its celebrity sightings and health-conscious hot food bar serving kale and kelp noodles. The speciality store also boasts a range of organic items and a drinks counter serving its own take on the viral Hailey Bieber smoothie, alongside blends like charcoal and golden mango. It’s the perfect stop for travellers seeking a taste of LA in Lower Manhattan.