ALT SUMMIT NYC :: Guide to Shopping
Welcome to the second installation of my Alt Summit NYC guide. Today we are highlighting the top shopping destinations the city has to offer. Now, as with the food thing, finding the key shopping locations can be overwhelming to the max here in the city. So, I have narrowed down the search for you with a list I believe encompasses something for everyone, and all in convenient locations. If you'll be in the city for Alt Summit, this list will guide you!
1) FISH'S EDDY
Are you a lover of vintage, retro, eclectic and affordable kitchen pieces? Yea... me too. This is my go-to place for anything associated with my kitchen - decoration, plates, tea cups, cheese boards, etc. I'm serious, it's the most adorable place. We love it so much, I made a specific wedding registry for us there and anytime I'm in the neighborhood, I'll swing in just to see what they have in stock. Bonus :: they have a super sale section in the back where you can get antique plates for $1. Mix and match to your hearts content for unique place settings without breaking the bank.
Not only is it a city landmark, with it's gorgeous industrial interiors, but Chelsea Market is the destination spot for foodies, shoppers and gourmet lovers of anything and everything. Grab a coffee at Ninth Street Espresso and roam through the shops and wine stores. Then grab a refreshing shaved ice pop from People's Pops. Check out the wine selection at Chelsea Wine Vault (if you're lucky they will have sample out!) and then find your wines cheese mate at Lucy Whey's. Come with a bit of an empty stomach as you'll stock up fast on fresh fruit and ice cream samples!
3) BROADWAY (between W.Houston + Canal)
Don't get stuck in Times Square or Herald Square even trying to shove in and out of overcrowded stores and sidewalks. This strip on Broadway is yes, also crowded, but you'll hit everything in fell swoop of the street. Also, at least you're in Soho surrounded by great restaurants, coffee shops and pretty buildings! You can literally hit Zara, Bloomingdale's, F21, H&M, Aldo, Prada, Mango, Sephora, Banana Republic, Uniqlo, Aritzia, Club Monaco, Madewell, All Saints and Topshop. Plus, you can meander off onto the side streets to the smaller boutique stores.
4) M&J TRIM
Are you a DIY blogger? If so, you can't be in NYC and miss a trip to M&J Trim. They are THE store for all your DIY supplies. From chain to fabric to studs and tools..... you'll have to set aside time to wander through the store and be inspired!
5) ABC HOME
This building is a six-floor fortress of furnishings, fabrics, interior decor, paintings, knick-knacks, vintage finds and modern accessories . ABC Home has traveled the world finding the best in home decor so you don't have too. Basically, this is where I go to spend 2 hours lusting after everything I wish I could fit in my loft apartment! Really, it's a dream..... hide your credit cards. Bonus :: when you've shopped yourself hungry, swing down to the famed ABC Kitchen on the 1st floor for a delicious bite to eat.
If you're an all-star thrifter like myself, then this is the place for you. With locations all over the city and one in Brooklyn, my top choice is the Chelsea store. As with any thrift store, some days are hit and miss. Once I found a Marc Jacobs skirt for $15 and a pair of barely worn Frye boots for $20..... then other days I walk out empty handed having missed all the gems. Bonus :: their proceeds do towards ending the dual crises of homelessness and AIDS.
Buffalo Exchange - Also a great thrift/consignment shop. The best one is on 26th Street.
Beacon's Closet - Another top thrift choice.
Oak - High-end men's and women's designer clothing.
Catbird - My favorite shop for dainty and adorable jewelry and accessories.
A.P.C - The shop to dress like a Parisian.
Brookfarm General Store - It's like if Kinfolk Magazine made a store.
Photo :: E
August 7, 2012
Reader Comments (6)
This is amazing and definitely something I need to look at. Thanks for the great tips, I'm especially anxious to check out Catbird.
Stay in the Lines
I love fishs eddy... Go there every time I'm in town!
Oh my gee, these are amaaaazing posts. How timely too! I'm not going for ALT, but I will totally be gacking your recommendations for my little visit next week! Bookmarking spree, go! ;D
I'm really loving this series Amy, I think you've done a great job with your suggestions! Fish's Eddy is such a great store and I love how affordable their prices are too. I LOVE Chelsea Market (I take everyone who visits there) and my favorite thing to do is grab some fresh bread and spreads and then take them to the High Line for a mini picnic. Broadway is a great area to shop (I much prefer it over Midtown), but the crazy crowds mean that I don't really go there too often. Can you believe I've never been to M&J Trim (shame on me!)? Perhaps it's because I'm afraid that I would want to walk out with everything in the store! I've also never been to ABC Home, but will be sure to take a trip soon as I'm moving in the next couple of months and will surely need things for the new apartment.
Anyway, enough of me rambling on! Just wanted to say that I love your picks and I'm really enjoying these posts :)
Those tips were all reliable and simply helpful. Ideas are usable for shopping lots of things.
So glad to have found all of these posts! I'm headed to NYC for NYFW + LuckyFABB and I'm a bit of a newbie!