From iconic retail experiences to the stoop made famous by Sex and the City, these are the New York fashion attractions that define the city’s sophisticated and avant-garde sense of style. Inclusivity is in vogue when it comes to the New York fashion scene. There are plenty of all-access fashion experiences that anyone can tap into, no velvet rope or influencer status required – after all, New York is one of the world’s fashion capitals. All you need is the right intel on where to go to hone your style IQ. Beyond shopping, labels and trends, this guide offers a tour of the must-visit NYC spots for those who consider themselves fashion lovers.
1. Tiffany and Co.
“Nothing bad can ever happen at Tiffany’s,” coos Audrey Hepburn as the quintessential New York party girl and fashion maven Holly Golightly in the 1961 film adapted from Truman Capote’s novella, Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Splurge on high-end fine jewelry and objets d’art that are updated seasonally. Contemporary jewelry and accessories can be snagged for $250 and under, while home goods, including fine china and sterling silver pieces, are priced under $100. Whether you’re searching for a stocking stuffer or a Christmas-morning scene-stealer, the shop’s iconic Fifth Avenue location has an Audrey-approved fit for you. And now, with the 2017 opening of The Blue Box Cafe on the fourth floor of the flagship store, you can literally have breakfast at Tiffany’s.
2. Dover Street Market
This multi-level concept mall features designers like Gucci, Balenciaga, Supreme, Maison Margiela and Comme des Garçons, as well as emerging designers who present innovative designs at the intersection of art and fashion. Collections are always changing, so be sure to check the floor guide for exclusive product drops. The brainchild of Rei Kawakubo, Dover Street is an international concept mall with locations in the most fashionable cities.
3. Carrie Bradshaw Stoop
Sex and the City fans line up daily to see the famous stoop where fictional sex columnist and New York fashionista Carrie Bradshaw smoked many a cigarette while always managing to pull a look. Although Bradshaw’s apartment is supposed to be on the Upper East Side (within walking distance of Barneys), the brick-and-mortar stoop is in the West Village – in the same neighborhood that Sarah Jessica Parker calls home.
4. The Museum at FIT
Dubbed New York’s most fashionable museum, and helmed by fashion historian Dr Valerie Steele, the Museum at FIT boasts several high-profile rotating exhibitions as well as a permanent collection and archives. Located on the campus of New York’s elite fashion school, the Fashion Institute of Technology, the Museum at FIT allows photography, and entrance is free.
5. M and J Trimming
Located in New York’s famed Garment District, where designers source fabrics and trimmings, M&J Trimming is a DIY crafter’s dream. Find everything from silk flowers to iron-on patches and fur pom-poms at industry prices. Buttons, trimmings and zippers as well as crafting tools like glue guns and sewing machines are also available for purchase. Be on the lookout for your favorite New York designer on the hunt for next season’s must-have embellishment.
6. Mood Fabrics
With three floors of designer fabrics to shop, the Mood Fabrics boutique provides one of New York’s most extensive selections of silks, lace, brocades, wool, velvet, jersey, trimmings, home decor and more. Find designer closeouts as well as on-trend seasonal selections shopped by the creatives behind some of New York’s premier labels. Featured on Project Runway, the store, located in the heart of the Garment District, is often crazy busy. Drop by mid-week for a respite from the crowds.
7. East Broadway Mall
Located in the heart of Chinatown, the East Broadway Mall houses mom-and-pop vendors selling everything from home decor to fishnet slippers and Chinese cosmetics. You’ll also find tons of eateries offering Szechuan- and Cantonese-style dishes. From this spot, explore Chinatown’s alleys where you can score silk qipao, embroidered kimonos and pajama sets, as well as silk coin purses, fans, hair combs and Chinese make-up and skincare products.
8. Five Points Tattoo
Formerly known as Love Hate Social Club, Five Points NYC is a New York-style tattoo parlor where you can hang out and explore how far you’re willing to go when it comes to adorning the body. Staff artists are accomplished in a variety of styles and techniques including Japanese, flash and fine lines. Walk-ins are encouraged seven days a week.
9. Le Bain
Atop the Standard Hotel in the bustling Meatpacking District you will find Le Bain, which, true to its name, has a Jacuzzi as well as rooftop views. Sip on fabulous cocktails and snack on bites from a small-plate menu. Since this is a favorite spot for the fashion set, dress to impress and take the gold-plated elevators all the way to the top. Expect a line and an expensive cover charge on the weekend.