Where to shop in New York

One of the best cities in the world for a dose of retail therapy, the New York fashion scene is constantly evolving. Outdoor malls and shopping centres, New York markets and boutiques are spread throughout the city; head to trendy spots such as Soho or the Lower East Side if you want something edgy, or visit 5th Avenue for luxury boutiques and designer gear. If department stores are more your style, try Midtown for a little bit of everything.

Soho

Retaining some of its artsy charm, Soho is home to a number of cult brands in fashion, as well as international names. Some designer stores and little-known brands can also be found here, selling everything from fashion to homewares. Wander along Broadway for chain-store fashion or Lafayette Street for tailored pieces and fashion staples.

Shopping in Soho? You might need a bigger suitcase...

Meatpacking District

With a strong industrial vibe, the fashion houses in the Meatpacking District shopping precinct showcase the latest styles. Designer Diane von Furstenberg has a huge presence here, as well as other high-end labels such as Chanel and Alexander Wang. You'll also find international brands housed in boutique-style stores. This is the district to browse if you're in the market for an edgy new label or unique pieces.

Manhattan's West Side from the High Line Park, around the Meatpacking District.

Greenwich Village

A mixture of well-known retailers and one-of-a-kind stores, no New York shopping guide is complete without a mention of Greenwich Village. Bleecker Street is the pick for clothes shopping, but you can also find record stores and specialty book shops as well. Refuel with a visit to one of the cafes before you continue to explore off the main streets.

Flatiron

Previously a commercial and residential hub, the Flatiron shopping precinct is known for its home and design stores. Alongside the beautiful homewares are well-known international retailers of clothing and some niche stores, guaranteed to keep photography or book buffs happy. You'll also find stunning jewellery stores mixed in with health food stores, just for good measure.

Broadway, Gramercy, between the Flatiron and the Union Square on a hot summer afternoon.

Lower East Side

The Lower East Side isn't just home to great bars and restaurants. You'll also discover the clothing trends that are just about to break right here. With edgy and on-the-fringe stores mixed with vintage stores and amazing book shops, it's easy to spend a whole day shopping in the Lower East Side.

Upper East Side

If you're searching for luxury brands, the Upper East Side is the place to go. The name Madison Avenue is synonymous with high-end shopping, and once you set foot here you'll see why. Department stores such as Bloomingdale's and Bergdorf Goodman are New York shopping institutions, while designer stores showcase fashion fresh from the runway.