Stylist Erin Walsh shares her expert recommendations for exploring New York City’s hidden shopping gems
New York City is renowned for its vibrant and diverse shopping scene, attracting visitors from all over the world. While many tourists flock to the well-known shopping districts like 5th Avenue and Rockefeller Center, there are countless hidden gems that often go unnoticed. Celebrity stylist Erin Walsh, a long-time resident of the city, offers her insider guide to shopping in New York, revealing the lesser-known neighborhoods and unique experiences that await those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Best for Women’s Fashion: SoHo between West Broadway and Broadway
Walsh’s first recommendation is the historic neighborhood of SoHo, specifically the stretch between West Broadway and Broadway. Known for its cobblestoned streets and high-end boutiques, SoHo offers a wide range of options for women’s fashion. Walsh highlights luxury brand stores like The Webster, Kate Spade, and Chloé, as well as hidden gems like Kirna Zabête, a boutique featuring curated selections from renowned and emerging designers. She also suggests exploring the surrounding restaurants, such as La Mercerie, which combines a restaurant, showroom, and retail space, and Balthazar for a delightful end to the day.
Best for Men’s Shopping: The Bowery
When it comes to shopping for men, Walsh recommends heading to the Bowery neighborhood in downtown Manhattan. Often overlooked, this gritty area offers a unique and underrated shopping experience. Walsh highlights John Derian, an upscale home decor store on 2nd Street, as a go-to destination. She also suggests visiting Dashwood Books on Bond Street, a favorite of her husband’s. The Bowery neighborhood is home to a collection of small, cozy shops that provide a refreshing and distinct shopping experience.
Best for Traditional Holiday Shopping: Midtown
New York City during the winter holidays is a magical experience, and Walsh believes that traditional holiday shopping shouldn’t be missed. Despite the crowds, she encourages visitors to embrace the festive atmosphere and explore Midtown. From the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the enchanting holiday window displays of Bergdorf Goodman and Saks on 5th Avenue, Midtown offers a unique and unforgettable shopping experience. Walsh reminisces about taking her children to see the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, even amidst the bustling crowds.
Best for Home Interiors: Tribeca, the West Village
As passionate about interiors as she is about fashion, Walsh recommends exploring Tribeca and the West Village for beautifully designed homewares and surprise gifts. She believes that the spaces we surround ourselves with have a profound impact on how we feel, and she finds joy in discovering unique pieces to enhance her clients’ homes. From rugs and furniture pieces to trays and books, Walsh suggests exploring the sophisticated boutiques in Tribeca and the charming streets of the West Village. She also encourages visitors to consider candle stores and fragrances as surprising and thoughtful gifts.
Best for Kids: SoHo, between Thompson and West Broadway
When it comes to shopping for children, Walsh returns to SoHo, narrowing her focus to a two-block stretch on the westernmost edge. She highlights Bonpoint on West Broadway as the go-to destination for children’s fashion, along with Makie on Thompson Street, which offers beautifully crafted Japanese-inspired clothing. Walsh also recommends a stop at Ladurée café on West Broadway to indulge in their signature macarons. SoHo is a treasure trove of cute kids’ shops waiting to be discovered.
Best for Quiet Luxury: The Upper East Side, around The Mark Hotel
For a taste of quiet luxury, Walsh suggests exploring the Upper East Side, specifically the area surrounding The Mark Hotel. Before diving into the boutique shops, she recommends starting the day with a facial at Georgia Louise Atelier and indulging in a beauty haul. The Upper East Side offers a range of luxury shops, including Sidney Garber jewelry, Ralph Lauren, and La Ligne clothing boutique, known for its sweaters. Walsh also recommends visiting the Gagosian art gallery and ending the day with a drink at The Mark.
Best for Making a Whole Day of It: SoHo, between Lafayette and Crosby Streets
Walsh suggests another ultra-niche pocket of SoHo, specifically the area between Lafayette and Crosby Streets, for a day filled with fun and unique experiences. From getting a manicure at Paintbox nail salon to shopping for handbags and jewelry at Prada and Dinosaur Designs, this area offers a variety of options. Walsh also recommends exploring the smaller, up-and-coming boutiques in the area, visiting Santa Maria Novella for luxurious Italian fragrances, and browsing books at McNally Jackson. The day can be perfectly rounded off with a refreshing Campari spritz at Sant Ambroeus bar.
Best New Kid on the Block: Dover Street Market (Flatiron/Madison Square Park)
While Walsh appreciates the classic downtown neighborhoods, she also keeps an eye on up-and-coming areas like the Flatiron district’s Dover Street Market. With a diverse selection of international designers and an array of cute coffee shops and restaurants, the Flatiron district has become a shopping and foodie hotspot. Walsh suggests taking a break at one of the area’s hotels, such as Ace, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. She emphasizes the importance of embracing the experience and taking the time to find meaningful presents.
Conclusion:
New York City’s shopping scene extends far beyond the well-known tourist destinations. Erin Walsh’s insider guide reveals the hidden gems and unique experiences that await those willing to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods. From the cobblestoned streets of SoHo to the quiet luxury of the Upper East Side, each area offers its own distinct charm and shopping experience. Whether you’re searching for fashion, home decor, or the perfect gift, Walsh’s recommendations will ensure a memorable and fulfilling shopping adventure in the city that never sleeps.
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