Hey everyone--

I have a question about shopping in Manhattan. I have heard that designer clothes (ie. Nautica, Tommy, etc..) can be bought for a steal when compared to other places in the United States because a lot of the flagship stores are in Manhattan. However, I also know that Manhattan isn't a cheap place. So what's the verdict? If I pick up something at a store in Manhattan...what are my chances of either getting a decent price or getting ripped??


Thanks in Advance--

Sheena

If you're at a flagship store that's full-price, you'll pay the same full-price you pay anywhere else. The bargains are to be had at sample sales (listings online tell you when these are), Century 21, Daffy's, Loehman's. These are all hit or miss in terms of styles and sizes. Also check out the weekly sample sale at clothingline.com---can have very good deals.

Sometimes the fashion houses have sample sales. They aren't typically advertised but are made known through certain media outlets and through mailings to select customers. Some require a reservation. People have them at various times of the year. (Try the websites for brands you are interested in and send them an e-mail if possible.)

Otherwise, try Century 21 Department Store. (It's located on Church Street, just across from the WTC site.) You can sometimes find some hidden gems at reasonable prices. Daffy's with a location on Madison and 44th can also have some nice items.

Depending on when you come, places like Macy's will have the same after Christmas sales as everywhere else.

In terms of the stuff sold on the street, there is a 95% chance it is a knockoff.

Happy hunting.

Thanks for your responses!

Actually about 1 hour outside Manhattan is an outlet center called woodbury common. there are busses there every day from the port authority terminal. there are about 300 designer outlet and things are cheap there. It is actualy a tourist destination for the japanese. Search google for tanger outlet centers and you will get the website, it even gives travel directions from NYC. there are actually hotels up there so if it is shopping you are after maybe you should go there

There are lots of bargin shopping places in the city, just plan out where you are going to be to hit the main stores.

I love Daffy's and Boltons. Both on 34th St. There are several Daffy's and Boltons in other parts of Manhattan as well.

Century 21 is great for clothing and home goods, but you have to pick through everything, and I hate that.

I am surprised no one mentioned the lower east side, a great bargin hunter's destination. Go there during the week or on Sunday, most of the stores are closed on Saturday. A favorite in that area is Forman's, there are also 2 uptown now on 42nd and Lex and 5th in the 40's.

The earlier poster who told you most of the stuff you buy on the street is fake, and I will also say the same thing, so don't be fooled that you are getting the designer bag cheap, you are getting a cheap bag, cheap.

Jewelry here in the city can also be a bargin in the Diamond District and on Canal St. Alot of places you can also bargin for better prices, so haggle a bit before you buy and make sure you are getting a good price.

Jewelry and watches on the street are FAKE. It may be stamped 14K, but I promise it is junk and you can buy the same junk on Broadway in the 30's.

Have a great time while you are here.

tweedy

ttt

New York Magazine lists some of the best sample sales each week. You might check it out.

Again--

Thanks to everyone for their suggestions/comments. They have been very helpful!


Sheena