Patrice E.

Shi

THis minimalist French/Japanese design shop is packed with eclectic gifts including unusual Christmas lights, Ricard ashtrays and colorful porcelain dinnerware by Queens based artist Uko Morita. Between Houston/Prince Sts. Open Tues-Sat noon-7pm Sun noon-6pm

Tannen Louis

One of the Largest and most respected magic shops in the world. Tannen's sells everything from thumb tips to levitation devices plus plenty of unique items created for exclusive sale in this store. Get a copy of their catalogue. Between Broadway and Sixth Avenue. M-Fri 10am-5:30pm and Sat 10am-4pm

Bra Smith Inc

Everything you wanted to know about bra and panties can be found here. Stocking literally hundreds of brands from around the world. A on-site tailor customizes shoppers' selection for a perfect fit. Btw 72/73 Sts. Open M-Sat 10am-7pm

Todd Oldham

Todd Oldham is the ultimate downtown designer known for colorful creations, funky use of denim and huge doses of fun stuff. In addition to clothes for men and women there are cool home furnishings and funky pet accessories. Between Spring/Prince Sts. Mon-Sat 11am-7pm and Sun noon-6pm

Helmut Lang LLC

Sparse surroundings and minimalist clothes are the trademarks of this top of the line Austrian Clothier. He presents his entire collection here along with an occational sale rack. Between Spring/Broome Sts. M-Sat 11am-7pm

PROS: Chic and WOW
CONS: Expensive

Bebe

Moderately priced knockoffs of the tope designer styles. Look for well tailored dresses, suits, tops and other feminine wearables that will get you looking great!! Between 79/80 Sts. M-Fri 10am-8pm Sat 10am-7pm and Sun 11am-6pm

Henri Bendel Inc

Bendel's beatiful townhouse oozes with sophistication. The 1920-s Paris meeth the new atmosphere is created here. Check out the magnificent Lalique windows and fabulous oval staircases in lieu of elevators. Look for their sales.

Patricia Field's

This place in the Village is brimming with some of the most colorful club and drag wear to be found anywhere. Step onto the thick fuchsia carpet and thumb throught the racks of really funky clothing. In the neighborhood, check it our just for a look see. Between Fifth/Univercity Place. Open Sun-Wed noon-8pm and Thurs-Sat noon-9pm

Bloomingdale's Inc

Open since 1879 (yeah can you believe it) this store is always a madhouse on the ground floor and almost impossible to walk through the huge perfume department without getting spritzed so Watch OUt! The upper floors are more sedate and staffed with responsible help. Shoe Dept is also packed so beware. The store's Victorian/Art Deco bulding is an icon. Open M-Fri 10am-8:30pm and Sat 10am-7pm and Sun 11am-7pm. Saturday is always the wost I have seen but great for people watching! Near 59th street

Barneys New York

Stocked with top-quality brands for both sexes. Look for good prices on casualwear on the top floor. Cafe downstairs is excellent for a nice stop. Best selection of cosmetics and beauty supplies from around the world. Amazing jewelry collection most not seen anywhere else.

PROS: Things you will find nowhere else
CONS: Some Prices for clothing are incredibly expensive