beauty

Helmed by '80s teen star Phoebe Cates, this Upper East Side spot fills a whippet-thin, teetering townhouse, which feels like it is inhabited by a wacky-but-chic grande dame. The case of delicate jewelry near the front is particularly strong, while the upstairs is replete with Sophie D'Hoore ballet flats and Antipast cashmere dresses.

This legendary space is perhaps the best-known department store in the entire city—it's anchored Herald Square for more than 100 years. Shop for everything from sexy stilettos to KitchenAid mixers.

Now with three locations across the city, this accessories powerhouse serves up playful, reasonably priced pieces, from bright enameled bangles to acrylic-gem-studded headbands.

Though highly-regarded as the ultimate department store, they always take a chance on emerging labels, often before even the smallest boutiques do. Its Co-op area—our favorite—focuses on young designers.

Hit the uptown flagship for hip collections on the sprawling second floor, and the excellent in-store boutiques for big-name designers on the ground level. Visit during one of its famous sales, and you'll find serious bargains.