12 Best Shopping in New York City, New York

A heavy, iron-barred door leads to a hushed, scented inner sanctum of beauty products. At this U.S. outpost of the 600-year-old Florentine company, shoppers can browse intriguingly archaic perfumes, colognes, creams, and soaps such as rose rice powder, prepared according to both traditional and modern recipes. Everything is packaged in bottles and jars with antique-style apothecary labels. If you prefer to perfume your home rather than your body, there are candles and sachets as well.

L.A.–based designer Clare Vivier's New York store displays her signature simple-but-elegant leather fold-over clutches in many sizes and colors, as well as understated totes and duffels. There's a line of men's accessories, plus iPad cases, sunglasses, and various other sundries.

The chunky and strappy flats, heels, and boots here are all designed in NYC and crafted in Spain using eco-friendly leathers and sustainable materials. The ethic is casual, comfortable, and timeless.

Described as "Savile Row meets Rock 'n' Roll" by GQ, Duncan Quinn provides bespoke services for everything from chalk-stripe suits to collared shirts, as well as ready-to-wear, in a shop not much bigger than its silk pocket squares. All the bespoke suits are made in New York City, and although made-to-order doesn't come cheap, the details are exquisite, with options like mother-of-pearl buttons.

If you love pens, notepads, and sketchbooks you'll immediately want to acquire one of everything from this well-stocked boutique from the team behind McNally Jackson bookstore in nearby SoHo. Desk accessories and items to decorate the study round out the stock, which all makes for great gifts.

The longtime SoHo men's fashion boutique Seize sur Vingt has evolved to incorporate three different in-house design brands and an art gallery, touting itself as an "integrated fashion collective." You can still splurge on Seize sur Vingt's exquisitely tailored shirts and suits, both off the rack or created bespoke from a mind-boggling array of fabrics (linen, broadcloth oxford, flannel), but now there are more moderately priced options as well, with sweaters, sneakers, women's wear, and more.

The clothing at this couture consignment store harks back only one or two seasons, and in some cases, the items have never been worn. Browse the racks to spot gems from Lanvin, Chanel, and Alexander McQueen. There are three locations around the city; offerings cater to women and men.

The inventor of the "Angel" sole (protects against water, acid, and "Satan"), Fluevog designs chunky, funky shoes and boots for men and women that are popular with rock stars and those who want to look like them.

In a setting inspired by the high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and parquet floors of Parisian apartments and brasseries, this cult French brand’s store brings its signature French-girl chic to New York. In addition to the small permanent collection (called La Liste), limited-edition seasonal releases ensure that the in-store stock changes regularly. In nice weather, the benches out front are usually occupied with beautiful people pausing from their shopping to chat.

If you're bored with the perfume stock at department stores, pay a visit to this rustic-chic boutique where a resident mixologist will lead you through the scents and help you find or create your ideal perfume. After you choose your favorite smells, the perfume is mixed and a personalized label created for your bottle. There's also a line of wonderful hair and skincare products.