New York City is arguably one of the most vibrant hubs for shopping. While high street fashion garments, luxury shoes and expensive perfumes remain the most sought after articles, you can also buy some unusual and lesser-known items which make for great keepsakes. Here's a list you won't normally find elsewhere:
Books
NYC has the largest publishing industry in the world, and despite the wave of ebooks and audiobooks, this place has plenty of bookstores to delight voracious readers. You can shop for your favorite tomes either from major chain stores or branchless boutique shops. Most bookstores also sell gift cards and book subscription boxes which make for great holiday presents.
Where To Buy Books
1. The Strand Bookstore in Broadway
2. Barnes & Noble across NYC
3. 192 Books in Chelsea
Vintage Clothes
New York may be one of the most fashionable cities in the world, but keeping up with the trends comes at a price. For shopaholics who drool after expensive brands such as Armani, Versace, Chanel, and the like, a trip down a vintage store is well worth the time. With some patience searching through the shelves, it is possible to get fascinating, elegant vintage outfits at throwaway prices.
Where To Buy Vintage Clothes
1. Beacon's Closet in Williamsburg
2. A Second Chance and Michael's Consignment in Upper East Side
Vinyl Records
From jazz and blues to punk rock, the vinyl stores in New York City stock up on a wide range of music collections. Whether you play your vinyl on a record table or a gramophone, you will definitely enjoy sifting through some old classics to take back home. Ensure you pack these records well as transit can cause scratches or cracks to appear on your vinyl records.
Where To Buy Vinyl Records
1. Human Head Records in East Williamsburg
2. Stranded Records NYC in East Village
3. Generation Records in Greenwich Village
African Garments & Collectibles
The African community in New York is mostly concentrated in Harlem and some parts of Brooklyn and Bronx. And it is in these neighborhoods precisely, that you can find some of the best shops to buy African goods. Select from colorful beaded necklaces and bracelets to unique printed and woven fabrics to wall decor articles.
Where to Buy African Articles
1. Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market in Harlem
2. Tafari Tribe and Noni Styles in Brooklyn
'I Heart NY' Tees, Hoodies, Caps & Bags
This is perhaps one of the most touristy things to buy, but still a classic yet affordable gift from New York City. The 'I Love NY' branding comes on tees, caps, hoodies, denim trousers, scarves, socks and a host of other items of clothing. The prices generally vary from neighborhood to neighborhood and also a bit on the quality of the fabric.
Where To Buy 'I Heart NY'-Branded Stuff
1. Billabong on Times Square
2. Chinatown
3. Greenwich Village
4. New Amsterdam in SoHo
Decoupage Articles
Decoupage is a type of art which involves creating mosaic patterns and ornamental effects on regular boring objects. New York's decoupage markets have a plethora of items to choose from-book covers, furniture, gift boxes, plates, bowls, and showpieces. If you collect art, decoupage articles will complement the theme of your rooms really well.
Where To Buy Decoupage Items
1. John Derian in Lower East Side
2. Artist & Craftsman Supply in Brooklyn
3. Kaas Glassworks in West Village
Street Art
Art collections are not only for the well-heeled. While not everyone may be able to afford the works of established artists, most can still decorate their living room with beautiful paintings and murals when they shop from the streets or boutique furniture stores. New York artists can offer you modern renditions of famous classics by Van Gogh, Picasso or Da Vinci.
Where To Buy Street Art
1. Affordable Art Fair NYC in Chelsea
2. Brooklyn Flea in DUMBO
3. Collyer’s Mansion in Brooklyn Heights
Unique Chinese Items
Chinatown has several streets lined with shops that sell interesting knick-knacks. You will find herbal medicine and silk garment alongside knock-off branded watches and bags. The neighborhood also offers an unmissable gastronomy experience with its Cantonese dishes which are made fresh and priced reasonably.
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