New York City (Fodor's, 2012) - Fodor's [156]
Skyline Books.
An endearingly scruffy, small, old-school space makes this the Woody Allen of used-book stores. Come here for out-of-print books in all categories, a large Beat Generation selection, literary first editions, and books on photography and art. | 13 W. 18th St., between 5th and 6th Aves., Chelsea | 10011 | 212/759–5463 | Subway: 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R to 14th St./Union Sq.
Clothing
Balenciaga.
Creative director Nicolas Ghesquière continues to wow the fashion world with his avant-garde looks. In this cavelike boutique you might luck onto a reissue from the (Cristobal) Balenciaga archives, made up in modern fabrics. The stash of more accessible handbags and shoes is worth a browse. | 542 W. 22nd St., between 10th and 11th Aves., Chelsea | 10011 | 212/206–0872 | Subway: C, E to 23rd St.
Comme des Garçons.
The designs in this stark, white, swoopy space consistently push the fashion envelope with brash patterns, unlikely juxtapositions (tulle and neoprene), and cuts that are meant to be thought-provoking, not flattering. Architecture students come just for the interior design. | 520 W. 22nd St., between 10th and 11th Aves., Chelsea | 10011 | 212/604–9200 | Subway: C, E to 23rd St.
New York Vintage.
Stylists to the stars, TV costumers, and the odd princess descend upon this boutique to browse racks of prime vintage clothing. Everything is high-end, so don’t expect any bargains. If money is no object, take your pick from Yves Saint Laurent, Madame Grès, and Thierry Mugler pieces. There’s a good selection of handbags and pumps, too. | 117 W. 25th St., between 6th and 7th Aves., Chelsea | 10001 | 212/647–1107 | Subway: 1 to 28th St.
Discount Shopping
Fisch for the Hip.
The racks at this high-end consignment store are evenly split between men’s and women’s clothes, with a well-edited selection throughout. You may find 7 for All Mankind jeans, Gucci suits, and Marni dresses. Hermès bags are a specialty. | 153 W. 18th St., between 6th and 7th Aves., Chelsea | 10011 | 212/633–9053 | Subway: F, M, 1, 2, 3 to 14th St.
Loehmann’s.
This discount store doesn’t attract the hordes of tourists like Century 21, but you’ll still have to dig through crammed racks to unearth bargains. Label searchers can find DVF wrap dresses for $100 and Betsey Johnson coats for around $200, and men can find Juicy Couture T-shirts and Versace ties. The “back room” has the best women’s designers. | 101 7th Ave., at W. 16th St., Chelsea | 10011 | 212/352–0856 | Subway: 1, 2, 3 to 14th St.
Music Stores and Media
Jazz Record Center.
If you’re seeking rare or out-of-print jazz recordings, this is your one-stop shop. Long-lost Ellingtons and other rare pressings come to light here; the jazz-record specialist also stocks collectibles, DVDs, videos, posters, CDs, and LPs. | 236 W. 26th St., between 7th and 8th Aves., 8th fl., Chelsea | 10001 | 212/675–4480 | Subway: 1 to 28th St.
Movie Star News.
As you flip through images from blockbusters, cult faves, and memorable bombs, it’s hard to doubt their claim that they have the world’s largest variety of movie photos and posters. Behind the counter are signed photos of many of the stars seen on the posters. TIP A poster of a New York film such as Manhattan, The Royal Tenenbaums, or Taxi Driver makes a good souvenir for less than $20. | 134 W. 18th St., between 6th and 7th Aves., Chelsea | 10011 | 212/620–8160 | Subway: 1, 2, 3 to 14th St.
Wine
Bottlerocket Wine & Spirit.
Fun and approachable, this shop puts a new spin on wine shopping. Vintages are organized by quirky factors like their compatibility with Chinese takeout and whom they’d best suit as gifts (ranging from “Someone You Barely Know” to “The Boss”). A reference library, kids’ play nook, and doggie area make the space extra welcoming.