Stylist to the stars, Erin Walsh, shares her expert recommendations for exploring New York City’s diverse and vibrant shopping scene.
New York City is renowned for its iconic shopping scene, with a rich history of luxury flagships, department stores, and indie boutiques. However, many visitors only scratch the surface, sticking to the well-known chain stores on 5th Avenue. Stylist Erin Walsh, who has dressed Hollywood celebrities like Anne Hathaway and Selena Gomez, believes that the true magic lies in exploring the city’s hidden gems. In this article, Walsh shares her insider guide to shopping in New York City, offering recommendations for women’s fashion, men’s shopping, traditional holiday shopping, home interiors, kids’ fashion, quiet luxury, making a day of it, and the best new shopping area.
Best for women’s fashion: SoHo between West Broadway and Broadway
Walsh suggests exploring the cobblestoned streets of SoHo between West Broadway and Broadway for a wide range of women’s fashion. She recommends visiting luxury brand stores like The Webster, Kate Spade, and Chloé, as well as uncovering indie boutiques like Kirna Zabête on Mercer Street.
Best for men’s shopping: The Bowery
When it comes to shopping for men, Walsh heads to the Bowery neighborhood in downtown Manhattan. She highlights John Derien for upscale home decor and Dashwood Books for a unique bookstore experience.
Best for traditional holiday shopping: Midtown
Despite the crowds, Walsh believes that Midtown is a must-visit during the winter holidays. From the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade to the high art holiday window displays on 5th Avenue, Midtown offers a truly magical shopping experience.
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 suggests visiting candle stores, shopping for fragrances, and finding unique pieces that make a statement.
Best for kids: SoHo, between Thompson and West Broadway
When shopping for children, Walsh returns to SoHo but narrows her focus to a two-block stretch on SoHo’s westernmost edge. She recommends Bonpoint and Makie for adorable kids’ clothes and Ladurée for their signature macarons.
Best for quiet luxury: the Upper East Side, around The Mark Hotel
For a luxurious shopping experience, Walsh suggests exploring the Upper East Side around The Mark Hotel. She recommends visiting Georgia Louise Atelier for a facial and shopping at upscale boutiques like Sidney Garber and La Ligne.
Best for making a whole day of it: SoHo, between Lafayette and Crosby Streets
Walsh recommends spending a whole day exploring the SoHo neighborhood between Lafayette and Crosby Streets. She suggests getting a manicure at Paintbox, shopping at Prada and Dinosaur Designs, and visiting Santa Maria Novella and McNally Jackson.
Best new kid on the block: Dover Street Market (Flatiron/Madison Square Park)
Walsh keeps an eye on up-and-coming shopping areas, including the Flatiron district’s Dover Street Market. She praises the unique selection of designers and the growing food scene in the area.
Conclusion: New York City’s shopping scene is a treasure trove of fashion, art, and unique experiences. By venturing beyond the well-known areas, visitors can discover hidden gems and create unforgettable memories. Whether it’s exploring the cobblestoned streets of SoHo or indulging in a quiet luxury experience on the Upper East Side, Erin Walsh’s insider guide offers a glimpse into the diverse and vibrant shopping scene of the city that never sleeps.
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