New York City Shopaholic Guide

From the glittering display cases in Tiffany's to the bustling street vendors on Canal Street, shopping in New York City has something for trendy fashionistas and bargain hunters alike! Legendary flagship stores, luxurious boutiques and deal-of-a-lifetime discount retailers all await the lucky shopper destined for New York City.

Midtown Manhattan is home to some of the world's most famous department stores. On Broadway between 34th and 35th streets is the self-proclaimed biggest store in the world - Macy's. With over half a million items for sale ranging from trendy denim to lush fur to sparkling crystal, Macy's is a shopper's paradise. There are ten floors to cover so grab a store guide at the entrance and hit the escalators! A fixture on Herald Square since 1902, Macy's flagship store is renowned for its great sales and spectacular window displays. Also known for excellent deals and creative displays is Lord and Taylor on Fifth Avenue between 38th and 39th. It's been a shopping institution since 1826. And if you want to be a true New Yorker and swing an iconic "Brown Bag" of your own, head to Bloomingdale's at Lexington and 59th. This store sprawls over an entire city block and is bursting with designer names. Filled with everything from the latest Tory Burtch clutches to lush towels by Calvin Klein, a shopping trip to the Big Apple is just not complete without a visit to Bloomie's.

The shopping area stretching from Fifth Avenue to 57th street is simply legendary. If designer brands are really what you are looking for, then Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth at 57th and 58th streets is a key shopping destination. Browse through the most talked about designer collections at this elegant and sophisticated department store. From Dolce and Gabbana evening gowns to Stella McCartney strappy sandals, there is something to suit tastes that are classically conservative or cutting edge. For more luxury goods and sumptuous surroundings, drop into Sak's Fifth Avenue at 50thstreet. Featuring designs from premium names like Alexander McQueen, Chloe, and Jean Paul Gaultier, you'll be right in the pulse of the hottest trends. And for a shopping experience where East meets West, check out Takashimaya New York on Fifth at 54th. The serene surroundings and artfully displayed merchandise are a calming change of pace from your other destinations. The Tea Box Cafe is a perfect place to rest and recharge.

A true shopper knows accessories are key and what better place to see the latest trends in bags, shoes and scarves than Louis Vuitton. At the corner of 57th and Fifth, this flagship location is the largest Louis Vuitton in the world. Browse over 20,000 square feet of men's and women's apparel, jewellery, footwear and of course the purses and luggage with the gold monogram that made the French designer legendary. And on the subject of famous flagships, a walk through Tiffany & Co's to browse the glass displays of sparkling gems is a must. If you want to see more high-end jewellery, make a stop at Harry Winston. The jeweller to the stars has stunning pieces on display in his Fifth Avenue salon.

It gets really serious for fashionistas on Madison Avenue from 57th to 79th. From the edgy styles of Versace to the timeless pieces of Giorgio Armani, this is where you will find some of the most posh boutiques in the world. Barney's New York on Madison and 60th is an upscale department store offering classic couture as well as cutting-edge indie designs. Dine at Fred's on the ninth floor to experience the "ladies who lunch" scene.

When you are ready to dig for some great deals and do a little bargaining, it's time to head to Lower Manhattan. Canal Street between Sixth Avenue and Baxter Street is famous for its hustling street vendors, official and unofficial, selling goods at every turn. This is where you will find every knock-off imaginable, including the latest designer handbags, sunglasses and electronics. Century 21 is the place to go to find that outrageous bargain you will be bragging about to everyone at home. Located in the financial district across from the World Trade Center site, this retailer is considered the best place in NYC for brand name merchandise at cut rate prices. Keep in mind this store's slogan is "Fashion Worth Fighting For" so make sure your shopping senses are at their sharpest! And to outfit yourself in more head to toe designer gear at budget prices, stop in to one of the Filene's Basement locations in Chelsea, Union Square or on the Upper West Side. You'll find bargain basement prices on cutting edge American and European designers including Michael Kors, Gucci, and Ted Baker.