How to Shop like a Fashion Designer in New York

Her feminine designs have twice made their mark at New York Fashion Week so it’s not surprising that Rebecca Vallance holds New York close to her heart. Visiting the city six times a year for business – and always with a few additional days for pleasure – Vallance knows the best places to find take-home treasures.

The Best Places to Shop in New York with Rebecca Vallance

Best for a designer splurge

“Barneys. They have the best designers – it was the first place I saw [fashion label Sies] Marjan and Gabriela Hearst. I never set aside enough time when I go there – and I always need an extra cup of coffee if I’m attempting to do the whole store!”

Various locations

Best for streetwear

“Opening Ceremony does the best designer collaborations; the recent Esprit capsule was very fun and nostalgic. The store is like a futuristic playground, you can find something fun and interesting everywhere you look.”

1190-1192 Broadway, New York

Best for vintage

“[Pop-up vintage market] A Current Affair has a curated assortment of vintage items from across the country and I always find a special piece there. It’s such an interesting space to walk through because it’s more like a marketplace than a store and it only takes place a few times a year. Everyone goes early in the morning and it’s a bloodbath as people try to get their hands on vintage Gucci. Lots of brands go for inspiration so you’ll often see designers stockpiling clothes first thing in the morning.”

Next market: 14 & 15 October 2017, Industry City, 220 36th Street, Brooklyn

Best for accessories

“Fivestory is housed in a classic Upper East Side townhouse and the store itself feels like you’re shopping in the most amazing walk-in closet. The founder, Claire [Olshan], used to work in the art world and her aesthetic is an aspirational mix of refined, feminine and niche. It’s one of the few places in New York where you can find Myriam Schaefer bags and Koio sneakers.”

18 E 69th Street, New York

Best for shoes

“The Bergdorf Goodman shoe floor – it all feels very regal with its velvet chairs and gold fixtures. You need to put aside hours to go through it properly but it's always worth it. Expect to find brands like Manolo Blahnik, Marni and The Row.”

754 5th Avenue, New York

Best for beauty

“C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries. It’s a classic pharmacy that’s been around for over a century and they’ve really tried to preserve the space. They have every type of beauty product imaginable. I go for the Oribe hair products and Smith’s Rosebud Salve.”

414 6th Avenue, New York

Best for homewares

“ABC Carpet & Home in the Flatiron District. Sometimes I just walk around and enjoy the decor of the store itself or sometimes I find an amazing handmade candle, rug or set of bowls. It’s an experience!”

888 Broadway, New York