Shopping near the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

An initiative of the Cultural Services of the French Embassy, Albertine is devoted to works—both in its original version and in translation—and offers the largest selection of French literature in the United States, with more than 14,000 titles from 30 French-speaking countries. The two-floor space is truly an escapist's dream, with a designated reading room with lush sofas and armchairs, all housed in the French embassy.

Ranking among the city’s top tourist attractions, Bloomie’s is stocked with everything from bags to beauty products, homewares to designer duds. The cosmetics hall, complete with an outpost of globe-spanning apothecary Space NK and a Bumble and bumble dry-styling bar, recently got a glam makeover. The compact Soho outpost concentrates on young fashion and cosmetics.  

This UES family-owned shop has been in the haute couture–recycling business since 1954 and is the place to go if you want to score Dior, Prada and Dolce & Gabbana dresses for 70 to 90 percent off retail price. While you shouldn’t schlep your bags of less-than-luxe stuff here expecting a trade (they only buy first-tier designer labels that are less than two years old and in great condition), come here if you want to treat yourself to something luxurious without breaking the bank.

This Upper East Side bedrock has been enabling thirsty New Yorkers’ habits since 1934. Today, the vinous oasis houses more than 3,000 bottles and boasts some of the finest customer service in the borough. But if you can’t find that limited edition Slovenian Pinot, let the clerk know—the shop offers a thrice-daily shuttle between its Park Avenue storefront and its Brooklyn warehouse, which shelters nearly 7,000 labels. Free in-store tastings are held Monday through Friday from 3-5pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 2-4pm.

Credit cards feel right at home at this luxury Upper East Side boutique catering to avid shoppers. Gowns seen on runways worldwide are for sale along with more casual daytime dresses for the ladies-who-lunch crowd.

This charming bridal salon offers wedding gowns ($1,400–$2,500) from brands such as Enzoani, Maggie Sottero and Valentina at 40 to 80 percent off retail prices. Owners Joanna Daidone and Regina Cuciniello score overstock dresses from designers and manufacturers around the country. Make an appointment to try on a Saison Blanche strapless ruffled frock ($1,875), a Kitty Chen gown with diamond appliqués ($1,400) and an Enzoani chiffon dress ($1,500). Add house-brand silver rhinestone bracelets ($198) and elegant studs ($48) to complete the look.

For the past 40-odd years, father-and-son team Lal and Harry Bhambi have been making sure every single hand-sewn garment under their banner is made precisely to look attractive. When you pick up garbs from them, you have the advantage of their veteran touch.

This Brazilian footwear and accessories brand, which has a cult following thanks to designer Giovanni Bianco’s whimsical creations, opens its first store outside its mother country. The space is set up to resemble a high-fashion art gallery, with black-and-white geometric display tables in the middle of the shop and backlit cubes set within the walls displaying goods. Shoe fanatics will find an array of styles to covet, including ballerina flats with glitter heels ($160), suede peep-toe platforms ($190), colorful studded pumps ($260) and glitter-encrusted sandals ($190).

This Paris-based gourmet chocolate shop has multiple locations in New York.

Choose from a variety of sweet packages, or build your own party. Packages for children ages three and up include invitations, candy decorations, balloons, paper supplies, pizza, beverages, cake, games, crafts and party favors. The Sugar Babies package, for babes celebrating their first birthday, includes everything in the basic package as well as a photographer, a cotton candy machine, an entertainer and courier service for gift delivery. Call for pricing.