Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Fashion Lovers on the Upper West Side
Top Things to Do in New York City for Fashion Lovers on the Upper West Side
1. Grand Bazaar NYC
A Sunday tradition for fashion treasure hunters, this sprawling indoor–outdoor market fills a UWS schoolyard with vintage clothing, indie jewelry, one-of-a-kind accessories, and emerging local designers.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the easiest place uptown to score unique wardrobe pieces—think vintage denim, silk scarves, and statement bags—while supporting local schools through the market’s mission-driven model.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Arrive 10–11am on Sundays for first pick; fall and holiday-themed vintage events bring the deepest fashion selection.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a tote and small bills; vendors rotate weekly, so check the market’s themed schedule and circle back after lunch for late markdowns.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Buzzing, friendly, and delightfully hunt-like—shoppers rave about rare finds at fair prices and a real neighborhood vibe.
2. Bloomingdale's Flagship Outlet
A multi-level outpost offering last-season designer apparel, shoes, handbags, and accessories—with frequent markdowns—right off the 72nd Street corridor.
✓ Why Go:
Designer labels at outlet pricing make it ideal for building a polished NYC look without blowing the budget.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons for breathing room; sizes are best just after new shipments and at end-of-month clearance cycles.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the shoe and handbag floors first; ask staff about upcoming additional-percentage-off days and save your receipt for price adjustments.
✓ What Visitors Say:
A satisfying hunt—hit-or-miss like any outlet, but locals praise consistent deals on quality staples.
3. Patagonia
Neighborhood staple for elevated outdoorwear—sleek parkas, rain shells, and knitwear that transition from Riverside Park walks to casual dinners.
✓ Why Go:
Durable, good-looking layers with a responsible footprint; perfect for NYC’s four-season weather and a long-term wardrobe.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late fall and winter for outerwear drops; spring for rain gear. Weekday evenings are calmer for fittings.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about Worn Wear repairs and recycling; check upstairs for quieter browsing and occasional community events.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Knowledgeable staff and lasting quality earn loyal fans who say the investment pieces pay off.
4. Housing Works Thrift Shop — Columbus Avenue
A well-edited nonprofit thrift where UWS donations translate into racks of contemporary and designer fashion at friendly prices.
✓ Why Go:
Discover barely-worn labels and one-off gems while supporting Housing Works’ lifesaving programs—guilt-free fashion at its best.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons after morning donations are processed; special “Best Of” sale days are jackpot moments.
✓ Insider Tip:
Join the mailing list for early-access events; scan fabric tags for cashmere, silk, and wool—quality rises fast here.
✓ What Visitors Say:
A beloved local trove—constantly changing, fairly priced, and purpose-driven.
5. Housing Works Thrift Shop — Broadway & 96th
A larger UWS location mixing fashion with furniture—great for scoring coats, boots, and workwear alongside eclectic home finds.
✓ Why Go:
Broad selection and regular turnover make this a reliable stop for building a distinctive, sustainable closet.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning on weekdays for freshly merchandised racks; seasonal changeovers yield standout pieces.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about upcoming themed drops; donating first can free up closet space and sometimes snag you member perks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Friendly, community feel with real-deal bargains—many shoppers make it a weekly ritual.
6. Tip Top Shoes
Since 1940, this family-run institution has specialized in fashion-meets-comfort footwear with expert fittings and hard-to-find sizes.
✓ Why Go:
If shoe fit matters, this is the UWS gold standard—expect attentive service and a deep brand lineup.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for one-on-one attention; avoid rainy Saturdays when it fills fast.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for a professional fitting and check the sale wall; staff will steer you to styles that last on NYC streets.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Generations of loyalists love the service-first approach and leave walking happier.
7. Harry’s Shoes
An iconic UWS footwear destination—recently refreshed—known for a wide selection of stylish comfort brands and meticulous fitting.
✓ Why Go:
From city-ready boots to sleek loafers, you’ll find fashionable, walkable pairs for full days out in NYC.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early afternoons midweek for easier try-ons and new-arrival browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pop into the kids’ store across the street after—you can outfit the whole family in one block.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Nostalgic neighborhood favorite with an updated feel—locals celebrate its return and service.
8. West NYC
Local sneaker boutique with streetwear cred—known for curated drops, limited collabs, and a tight-knit UWS sneakerhead community.
✓ Why Go:
For fashion lovers who live in sneakers, it’s the place to discover hyped pairs without trekking downtown.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Follow social feeds for release days; otherwise, weekday midday is relaxed for browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about upcoming drops and sizing advice—staff are enthusiasts who’ll point you to sleeper hits.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Friendly, neighborhood energy and a sharp edit make it a destination beyond the zip code.
9. Lululemon
A bright Columbus Avenue corner stocked with athleisure that moves from studio to sidewalk—sleek layers, technical fabrics, and seasonal color stories.
✓ Why Go:
Refine your off-duty NYC look with pieces that perform—ideal for park walks, errands, and casual meetups.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for fitting rooms without queues; shop new color drops at season changes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Complimentary hemming is a perk; check the “We Made Too Much” section for smart savings.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Well-organized and well-stocked; shoppers like the easy returns and consistent fit across styles.
10. Kiehl’s Upper West Side
Round out your look with skincare: this UWS apothecary-style boutique offers complimentary consultations and NYC-friendly travel sizes.
✓ Why Go:
Great style starts with great skin—stock up on reliable staples before a night at Lincoln Center.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening on weekdays for personalized consults; sample events pop up around launches.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for a skin analysis and take home tailored samples; sign up for loyalty to get early notice on limited sets.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Approachable staff, generous sampling, and products that earn repeat visits.
