Whether you're going uptown or downtown, New York is versatile and sexy! Home to the world's most fashionable women, the opportunities for shopping in New York City is unrivalled.

Saks 5th Avenue

This venerable New York establishment has been around since 1924 and is the epitome of grace, style and elegance. You can shop till you drop with their extensive collection of products from America and Europe. The information booth on the 50th street side offers quick tips on how to explore ten floors of pure luxury. Start at the basement where the waft of perfumes from the cosmetic counters set the scene. Then take a trip through the in-store designer boutiques namely, Chanel, Gucci & Louis Vuitton. Saks is still famous for its unique shopping experience and boasts the finest men's department in New York, the best sales imaginable, great value and impeccable sales staff who treat everyone with genuine respect. For a look at the real ladies who lunch, take a peek at Café SFA on the 8th floor.

Bergdorf Goodman

Conservative sophistication with a twist! Bergdorf's might have a classic air but it houses the most modern of designers, namely Jean Paul Gaultier, Chloe, and Kate Spade, also paying homage to the younger set with mid-price collections by DKNY, Marc by Marc Jacobs, and Bergdorf Goodman Special Custom Collection by the Fashion Institute of Technology. Located in the elegant Vanderbilt Mansion, this store boasts resplendent views of Central Park. The handbag department is one of the best in the city, stocked right through from Prada to Chanel. Stop at the shoe department for a coveted pair of Jimmy Choo's or if you prefer your Manolo's you're guaranteed the latest styles. The seventh floor houses gifts and antiques, bridal services and fur collections. Watch out for end of season sales which offer great savings.

Now you can drop your shopping bags and go upstairs to one of the city's best kept secrets. The Susan Ciminelli Day Spa atop of Bergdorf Goodman offers skin products that not only turn back the clock but also imbue your skin with a radiant glow. Susan's products are made of the purest essential oils, the finest botanicals and natural seaweed.

De Beers

A little South African diamond in New York: De Beers opened their store amidst great fanfare, joining the ranks of Cartier, Bulgari and Tiffany&Co. At the opening of this 6000-square foot boutique, guests got to walk on Swarovski crystal and delight in de Beers's 203-carat Millennium Star, the largest pear-shaped flawless stone in the world. 1000 visitors frequent this store daily, enjoying the plush lounge area and the fact that no sales assistants hover. Selections range from $500 to $8 million, and include classic diamond jewelry, plus three fashionable collections of rings, earrings, pins, necklaces and bracelets. There is a bridal bar on the second floor where couples can pick out their engagement rings. The "beauty scan", technology which is unique to De Beers will provide your wife to be with a true picture of just how bright her diamond sparkles.

Prada Flagship Store

The coolest shop on earth for the coolest clothes in the universe! The collaboration between Miuccia Prada and Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas turns shopping into a theatrical experience with screens and media installations. 23 000 square feet of retail space at a cost of $40 million, offers you a more imaginative shopping experience than the usual stores. First stop is an interactive kiosk where you can find out all sorts of facts about Prada. There is a massive glass elevator that you can shop in, and plasma boxes flash images and information at you while try on impeccable designs. The whole design space looks like a giant wave and there are retractable display cages for merchandise. Computer-equipped dressing rooms have glass doors made with SGG's Priva-Lite technology, which enable a two-way mirror experience. While you are trying on you can watch what's going on outside. This is exactly the kind of space you would expect from someone charging $600 for a pair of shoes.

Butik

Danish supermodel Helena Christianson has opened her own signature store with Danish partner, Leif Sigersen. Butick, the Danish version of boutique, houses a heady mix of eighteenth century antiques set off with black roses, marvelous organic chocolates and Matthew Williamson candles. This quirky mix of vintage and modern is sourced mainly from Scandinavia and Paris. You'll find Norgaard Paa Stroget's striped maritime T-shirts, and one-off retro-print skirts by Rutzou. Camilla Staerk's understated footwear, handbags by Ricka, and Veronica Civa's jewelry. This shop is worthy of exploration and chances are you'll bump into someone famous. Actress Maggie Gyllenhaal and Russian model sensation, Natalia Vodianova are regulars. Butik is a stone's throw away from Nicole Fahri's boutique, 202.

Barneys

All style gurus' know that Barneys is a celebrity hangout as it has the hottest fashion, delivered fresh from seasonal shows. This is New York's fashion capital when it comes to department stores, so come on in all you fashionistas. From fur and mile-high stilettos to the latest in jewelry and handbags by designers like Fendi and Hermes, this store has it all - women's, men's and children's clothing with accessories, fragrances, shoes, cosmetics and tableware. Make use of their concierge services, personal shopping and services studio. Pamper yourself at the image studio with your own makeup artist and indulge your every delight at the resident spa. Shopping in New York City couldn't be finer!
About the Author

New York City is truly a shopper's paradise and at New York Journey we provide an up-to-date directory of where to go and how to get there. All the information you need to know before you embark on a New York travel experience.

Fashion Legend Tom Ford Emerges In Eyewear   by Amanda Pierce

Ask fashion worshiper's who their favorite designer is and you are sure to see one name popping up time and time again: Tom Ford ... Tom Ford ... Tom Ford! To understand the reason Ford is such a fashion icon and the impact this plays in the eyewear and entire fashion industry, it is useful to first look at Tom Ford's path to being credited as being one of the most influential designers of the last decade.

Ford's path to fashion legend began when he moved to the New York as a teenager, and enrolled at the NYU in Art History. In 1986 Ford started his career with famous American designer Cathy Hardwick as a part of her creative staff; two years later, he became the Design Director for Perry Ellis. Ford did not stay at Perry Ellis very long before joining Gucci in 1990 as the Women's Wear Designer and in an unprecedented amount of time Tom Ford climbed the ladder at Gucci and was appointed Gucci's Creative Director in 1994.

This is where Tom Ford's true genius showed. Before he began as Creative Director, the company was seeing stagnant sales and was losing market share. In Ford's first year at the Gucci helm he was credited with putting the glamour back into fashion because of the pioneering fashion trends he introduced, such as the Halston-style velvet hipster's. By 1999, the house, which had been almost bankrupt when Ford joined, was valued at about $4.3 billion. Gucci bought an interest in Yves Saint Laurent during Ford's time there, and he was appointed their Creative Director as well. However, in an unexpected turn of events Tom Ford left Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent in 2004 after a disagreement over his contract. Since then Tom Ford has fallen off of the fashion industry's radar...until now.

Tom Ford now emerges, as he launches a much anticipated sunglasses line. So why did Tom Ford choose sunglasses for his first solo project? When asked he responded "Well as far as accessories go, they're a personal favorite..." If Tom Ford was going to do sunglasses we new they must be something truly remarkable and boy were we right. The sunglass line is a throw back to decades past, in particular most possess that sexy seventies styling that Tom has so successfully made his own. The frames have an oversized and retro feel and can't help but remind you of an old Hollywood glamour. The sunglass colors are even reminiscent of the time with unique frame and lens colors such as various shades "Havana" and "Horn". Even the style names are as evocative of the era as the designs themselves, Farrah and Ryan for example. But there are also frames named after Tom's loyal assistant Whitney and his long-term partner Richard Buckley of Vogue Homme, that demonstrate the personal level on which this project has been carried out. Tom Ford has also created a number of Aviator sunglasses for Men such as Tom Ford Falconer or Tom Ford Hawking, which are completely distinct from your standard aviators. For example, Tom Ford Falconer is an over-sized aviator whose frame folds into its palm size case.

With Ford's extensive celebrity following, his sunglasses have been showing up on the red carpet all over Hollywood. Many stores already have a huge backordered waiting list for many of the Tom Ford sunglass models. It appears that Tom Ford is back in the fashion industry, and in a big way, with his new line of sunglasses.
About the Author

Eyegoodies.com carries the full line of Tom Ford sunglasses. Shop Tom Ford Sunglasses Read eyegoodies.com Tom Ford sunglasses Review

What is it that imbues one handbag with timeless quality, while others are dated after a single season? Expert craftsmanship plays a large part in this phenomenon, as do forward-thinking, though traditionally rooted, designs. Classic handbags are rule-breakers (despite being informed by carefully studied rules), that may be worn by successfully by each woman in her own distinct way, whether she is 18 or 80. Ultimately however, it is a certain je ne sais quoi that catapults a handbag from "accessory" to "legend". The Hermes Birkin, the Louis Vuitton Speedy, the Marc Jacobs Stella and the Chanel 5.55 shot from the 20th century poised to stay relevant, respected and revered throughout the 21st. Close on their tails are the nine handbags profiled below. All have what it takes to catch up to those Grande Dames of accessories, and perhaps even outshine their legends.

The Novak by Alexander McQueen - $1,200

This expertly constructed purse resembles a decadent shell, its hard exterior conveying strength, power and mystery: Does her Novak hold a subpoena or is it hiding expensive French lingerie? Only the wearer knows for sure. McQueen's Novak is a classic take-anywhere handbag for any haughty, icy, femme fatale (or for anyone who harbors one within and seeks to offer the world a subtle glimpse of her).

The L'Orient Ariane by Kate Spade - $195

Reminiscent of Chanel's legendary 5.55, Kate Spade's L'Orient Ariane brings American insouciance to the sophisticated continental shoulder bag. Whether you are seeking to add a glamorous accent a serious suit, or a dash of grandeur to your favorite jeans and tee, the L'Orient Ariane is a handbag for every occasion. Available in a variety of shades from "Luxuriant Black" to "Feminine Fuchsia" to "Whimsical Watermelon", at only $195 each, you can practically purchase one in every color, for the price of a single 5.55.

The Nicole Carryall by A+N - $185

The "love child" of LL Bean and Prada, A+N's Nicole Carryall expertly combines New England utilitarianism with European sleekness. This bag is a must-have for the everywoman in every woman. The Nicole Carryall's functionality lends itself well to the schedule of the modern woman: careerist, athlete, social butterfly, adventuress and glamour-puss, rolled into one. As designer Anna Medvedeva says: "We are not trying to create the new "It Bag" of the moment, nor are we trying to catch ever-changing fashion trends. Instead, we work on creating the ultimate everyday bags so versatile, that everyone can bring her their own style to them." Made from weatherproof nylon canvas, in a trend-defying design, the Nicole Carryall transcends not only time, but also the elements, in functionally decadent fashion.

The Large Saddle Bag by Andrea Brueckner - $525

The woven leather of Andrea Brueckner's Large Saddle Bag carries a whiff of "I picked this up in the Mediterranean" artisanal exoticism, while its embossed sheen provides a patina of urbane polish. At first glance, the Saddle Bag may appear to be the gregarious grandchild of the Bottega Veneta hobo, but closer inspection reveals that it is a true original: With painstaking attention to detail, designer Brueckner has created lightness from suppleness, airiness from the earthly. This is anything but your average handbag - don it and you'll be sure to encounter a chorus inquiring "where'd you get that bag?!"

The Roxanne by Mulberry - ₤595

The ultimate in hippie luxe, Mulberry's Roxanne conjures imagery of well-heeled bohemian icons Talitha Getty and Marissa Berenson. Embodying both uptown pedigree and downtown street credibility, the Roxanne, like all natural beauties, only gets better with age. This is the perfect day bag for the woman who is more inclined to choose Masai beads over diamonds, to pair with her little black dress.

The Maya Tote by Kooba - $655

"The Maya bag is for a classy working woman who is fashion conscious and knows how to make a smart handbag investment." says Shopbop.com buyer Alle Fister. This supple, statement bag is not for the faint of style, but it is the perfect everyday handbag for the particularly fashion-forward. A graduate of the Marc Jacobs School of Understated Opulence, the Maya Tote oozes style without screaming "look at me". Kooba spokesperson Katie Fox says: "Kooba has combined functionality with style, making it easy for the modern woman to keep herself organized with plentiful pocket room." This is the perfect bag for the downtown girl, with a sensible, suburban past: its large size accommodates well-organized efficiency, but the design is all cosmopolitan cool. It's the bag for hip girls who have successfully transitioned from being "restless in Raleigh" to "chic in the city".

The Metal Mesh Ruffle Clutch by Felix Rey - $196

This isn't your grandma's evening bag! Felix Rey's youthful alternative to the dowager-favored minaudiere comes in three shimmering, metallic shades to accentuate every outfit, and highlight every skin tone. The Ruffle Metal Clutch is everything an evening bag should be: small, sparkling and with a sense of humor. Felix Rey designers Sulaika Zarrouk and Lily Rafii have carefully created a bag with "hanging ruffles [that] move and catch the light, which creates an almost liquid effect". Both designers are long-time fans of metallics and evening bags, and says Zarrouk, they sought to create "a more modern shape with this classic material." Hold it as a clutch or utilize its small handle for extra "security". This is the perfect bag for the charming, bubbly party girl inside of us all.

The Fan Hobo by Botkier

The Fan Hobo epitomizes understated luxury. It's ideal for the woman who prefers to speak through her presence, rather than her accessories. It's ideal for the woman who is most comfortable in cashmere and pearls. It's ideal for the woman who knows that although one may not be a fashion risk-taker, she can still cultivate her own unique personal style. Reminiscent of Gucci's classic Medium Hobo, the Fan Hobo is always appropriate and will always exude subtle elegance.

The Tote by Bulga - $405

So, you've finally realized that your "Hello Kitty" handbag has to go and you should move onto something more grown up, have you? Enter Bulga's tote to the rescue! While the silhouette of the handbag says "adult", the playful, rainbow-like crescent and dangling tassel add playful elements. It's a must-have for any woman who is committed to celebrating the little girl within.
About the Author

Sacha Phillip is a freelance fashion writer in New York City. She has a column on handbags at http://www.handbagcollectors.com

Classic Men's Wallets That Never Go Out Of Style   by Logan Wong

I know most men do not put much thought into choosing the wallet he uses. After all, it's just something that carries your cold hard cash. But to me, the wallet is arguably a man's most essential accessory and the wallet he carries says a lot about him and his personal style.

So regardless of you're buying a wallet for yourself or as a gift, you should really take your time to pick a good one. It'll accompany you for many years to come.

Women are clearly spoilt for choice when it comes to handbags and small leather goods. Every season, designers crack their brain to come up the "It" bag that will be the object of every woman's desire.

As guys, we aren't that fortunate. We don't have that many designers clamoring for our attention. But it doesn't mean we don't have choices. In fact there are men's wallets and small leather goods that never go out of style.

I find these timeless classics very appealing because there's always an interesting story behind its success. They may not come cheap but they'll certainly elevate your status in the style department.

Meisterstuck by Montblanc

Montblanc turned 100 in 2006 and there are many reasons to celebrate. The success of the legendary Meisterstuck fountain pen launched in 1924 helped Montblanc become the de-facto market leader of fine writing instruments.

Today, Montblanc is more than just a maker of fine writing instruments. The company has launched its leather goods, its fine watches, eyewear, fragrance and even jewelry.

Montblanc's foray into leather goods started in 1935 when it acquired a producer of leather ware in Germany. Riding on the success of its Meisterstuck fountain pen, Montblanc launched the Meisterstuck leather collection.

Using black calfskin fitted with its signature "star" logo, Montblanc creates a masculine line of fine leather goods that is an instant hit with its predominantly male clientele.

Must de Cartier by Cartier

Well-known for its jewelry and fine watches, Cartier is one of the top luxury brands in the world and its products are associated with very, very high price tags.

1974 was the year Cartier made a comeback in the world of leather goods with the Must de Cartier line. The color burgundy, with a slight raspberry hue, was chosen as a logical continuation to the Cartier red for this must-have collection of fine leather goods. Burgundy soon became the new black.

The influential Bordeaux color, the iconic double 'C' logo, and the distinctive gold hardware make the Must de Cartier line a timeless classic.

But to be honest, Must de Cartier is not for the weak-hearted. Not every guy feels comfortable carrying a burgundy wallet with gold adornments.

Monogrammed Canvas by Louis Vuitton

With more than 100 years of history, Louis Vuitton monogrammed canvas must be the classic of all classics. And no matter what Louis Vuitton does to the monogrammed canvas, it still sells like hot cakes.

They splattered the canvas with graffiti. They planted red cherries on the canvas. They painstakingly sewed the motifs on denim. And they got Takeshi Murakami who reinterpreted the motif in brilliant rainbow colors. It seems like you can't go wrong with the monogrammed canvas.

Unfortunately they don't have a good selection of men's wallets in monogrammed canvas so your choices are rather limited.

Pocone Nylon by Prada

It was in 1978 when Miuccia Prada took over the dusty luggage business from her grandfather. Under her helm, Prada became a luxury powerhouse with far-reaching influence in the world of fashion.

The world took notice when Prada made a handbag out of black waterproof Pocone nylon. Fitted with its distinctive triangular logo plate, nylon never looked so good. Miuccia Prada single-handedly made nylon luxurious.

Of course, I'm not expecting you to carry the popular nylon handbag. Prada does make nice nylon wallets trimmed with cowhide for men. Although it's now available in many different colors, black is always a classic.

Woven Leather by Bottega Veneta

Once a second-tier brand in the Gucci Group's stable, Bottega Veneta has become the group's rising star. With its ultra-exclusive and elitist appeal, Bottega Veneta is poised to become the next Hermes.

Recreating the brand's popular woven bags from the 1970s, Bottega Veneta beats the trend of logomania with its handcrafted leather goods made from the finest napa leather.

And consistent with the brand's slogan "When your own initials are enough", you won't be able to see any logo on the leather goods. But the beautifully woven leather, which ages very well with use, should be enough to announce that you're carrying a Bottega.

Line D by S.T. Dupont

S.T. Dupont is so well known for its lighters that it's easy for us to forget that Simon Tissot-Dupont founded the company in 1847 making leather briefcases for diplomats and businessmen.

The classic Line D collection of fine leather goods was launched in 1985 and featured the Dupont "D" logo in gold on black calfskin. In recent years, they also offer Line D fitted with the trendier palladium hardware. But whether it's in gold or palladium, Line D still looks as timeless as ever.

Burberry Check by Burberry

When we think of Burberry, we invariably think of the red, camel, black and white check that has become synonymous with the brand. It's hard to imagine that the Burberry Check actually has a humble beginning. It was introduced in 1920 as a lining to the iconic Burberry trench coat.

Burberry is enjoying a revival in recent years - all thanks to its creative director Christopher Bailey's modern interpretation of the classic check, CEO Rose Marie Bravo's dynamism, and Kate Moss' star power. You just can't go wrong with such rich Brit heritage.
About the Author

Logan Wong is the founder of Mensfolio and also the editor of the Mensfolio Blog.