NYC's top department stores

New York City is a shopper's paradise. Photo / Creative Commons image by Flickr user JoeyBLS Photography

Barneys New York

The uptown flagship store Barneys is a tried-and-tested favourite with the fashion-conscious and shoppers with big budgets. The extensive selection of menswear offers made-to-measure garments as well as edgier posh designers. All the big designer names are present in the women's department, and those with a fetish for footwear will think they have died and gone to heel heaven as they walk their talk with Prada, Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahniks. There are more goodies in the sweet-smelling cosmetics department and the bling of the jewellery collections.

Bergdorf Goodman

Bergdorf is a one-stop department store for those who like the better things in life. Billed as an ultimate shopping destination, it offers those with significant bank balances the latest designer clothes, stunning shoes for the well-heeled and superior service. If mid-priced lines are more within your budget, head for the fifth floor. Once you have your dream outfit, the beauty department can take care of any cosmetic needs before the in-house hair salon completes the total look. Feeling peckish after your shopping workout? Head for the seventh-floor BG Restaurant and enjoy its views over Central Park.

Bloomingdale's

Famous for being spread out over a city block, Bloomingdale's is another New York shopping institution. The busiest spot is its main floor, which has lots of cosmetic counters, the perfect place to try latest scents. Bloomingdale's is also a good place to shop for bedding, household items and designer clothing.

Henri Bendel

If you think you already have all the clothes you need or want, Henri Bendel is your shop for those finishing touches and accessories. Its boutiques are full of cosmetics, lingerie, accessories and gifts. Bendel has a reputation for stocking unusual and hard-to-find items. And if you feel like being pampered, book into the fourth-floor Frederic Fekkai's hair salon.

Saks Fifth Avenue

Saks has a staggering amount of clothing and brands to choose from including the cream of top-name American and European designers. Must-visit departments are ball gowns and footwear.

CHECKLIST

Further information: See DiscoverAmerica.com.