Recommendations

The grand dame of NYC luxury shopping.

Guide: Stylist (Robbie)
Location: UES

Strengths

• Yes yes yes it's painfully obvious, but I'd be remiss not to include Bergdorf's in a list of best stores in NYC.
• First, let's put this grand dame of shopping in perspective. The store opened in 1899, and moved to its current Art Deco store in 1928, on the site of a former Vanderbilt Mansion. They were pioneers in selling ready-to-wear, way back in 1914.
• Bergdorf succeeds because they know their customer, they buy the lines well, and they don't try to be too cool. I like them for essentials, and I love the wide array of options they provide.

Shortcomings

• Not safe for browsing, you'll fall in love with one too many dresses and they don't come cheap.

Insider tips

• My favorite departments are Beauty, Shoes and Handbags.
• Men's and women's stores are right across the street, so couples can split up or shop together.
• I'm a big fan of facials at the Susan Ciminelli Day Spa, which deserves its own recommendation.

Anecdotes

• Bergdorf's is luxury shopping at its best. Even the dressing rooms are fabulous, with views of the park.

Credentials

• New York Magazine awarded them Best Party Dresses in 2007, Best Classic Shop in 2005, Best Shoes for Her in 2004, and Best Tableware in 2003. Not too shabby.