New York is a shopper’s playground, and playtime is on offer day and night. From independent boutiques to world-famous department stores, with all the choice, you have to know where to look. Weave it into your sightseeing itinerary, or put some days aside for some serious retail therapy. Either way, you’re in for a treat.

Here’s our helpful guide to the best shopping in New York – please purchase responsibly…

Best shopping in NYC for designer brands

Nowhere does luxury quite like New York City. Let’s start with the oh so famous street for designer brands, Fifth Avenue. Rows of rows of fashion institutions, think Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Hugo Boss. Next meander over to the Upper East Side where you’ll find the original Tory Burch store, opened in 2004, almost selling out of stock on their very first day. Also Tom Ford, Lanvin and Missoni, not forgetting Alexander McQueen, Chloe and Céline. Feeling a little dizzy yet?

For Fifth Avenue & Upper East Side:
Explore Uptown Route, Stop: The Frick Collection Museum

Best shopping in NYC for vintage

Shopping in a good vintage store is like rifling through a treasure chest. You never know what gems you might uncover. Throwback threads, classic accessories and ‘they don’t make them like that anymore’ shoes. Your first stop to the best vintage shopping in New York, Ritual Vintage in Little Italy. Specialising in items from 1850 to 1950, every piece is hand selected by the owners creating a very eclectic mix. Then, step into the late ‘80s and ‘90s by heading over to Procell, for the nostalgia as much as the shopping. And for something a little more high-end, a boutique known for dressing celebs for the red carpet, New York Vintage. Browse the rails downstairs, then make an appointment to wander the showroom upstairs for a viewing of the pieces you can only rent.  

For Ritual Vintage & Procell:
Explore Downtown Route, Stop: Union Square

For New York Vintage:
Explore Downtown Route, Stop: Flatiron District

Best shopping in NYC for discounts

The best thing about discount shopping in New York City is, while the price drops, the standard doesn’t. It’s not uncommon to find your favourite brands marked down, you just have to know where to look. A good place to start is Century 21, a lively store showcasing a maze of offers. Head there early to avoid the frenzy. Next, for designer clothes at deep discounts, meander over to Nordstrom Rack. Clothing, handbags, accessories and shoes, for both children and adults, the whole family can cash in. Lastly Gabay’s, a family run outlet offering overstock from New York’s exquisite department stores, for example Bergdorf Goodman. It’s not uncommon to pick up a pair of Manolo Blahnik’s from here.  

For Century 21:
Explore Brooklyn Route, Stop: One World Observatory

For Nordstrom Rack & Gabay’s Outlet:
Explore Downtown Route, Stop: Union Square

If you’re looking for an all-round shopping experience, SoHo has it all. From designer brands to high-street labels, high-end pieces to wallet-friendly wares, there’s something for every taste and budget here. Wander the streets and see where your shopping spree takes you. Or hop on a Big Bus tour and conserve your energy for even more bargain hunting. We’ll squeeze all the iconic sights and attractions while you’re at it. Happy shopping!