Monday, July 12, 2010

The Girl’s Guide to Shopping in the West Village

One of the trendiest shopping neighborhoods in New York City is the West Village. With vintage shops, eclectic boutiques and home décor stops all within walking distance, there’s something for everyone in this quaint neighborhood with tree-lined streets.

Corrado Bread and Pastry (35 Christopher St)


Start your day off with coffee and a pastry at this friendly bakery in Sheridan Square. Like some other coffee shops, the staff is never rushed, so take your time and peruse the freshly made pastries, muffins and breads. The seating area isn’t cramped, so you can enjoy your café au lait without feeling like part of your neighbor’s conversation.


Zachary’s Smile (9 Greenwich Ave)


This fun and flirty vintage shop is overflowing with adorable pieces from not only independent designers but from their own label. Except for an occasional Gucci, Versace or Armani that breezes through, the price point stays around $50-$100 for dresses, $200 for killer leather jackets and $98 for boots (which they have in every color imaginable).


Albertine (13 Christopher St) 


With two mannequins framed perfectly in the front window, its easy to see why this store catches the eye of fashion’s most tasteful crowd. Liv Tyler and Cameron Diaz frequent the ornate dress shop when they’re in need of that extra special look. With price points from $200 for cocktail dresses to $700 for floor-length gowns, anyone is able to obtain a look that will turn heads.

Filled with some of the most delicate dresses from independent designers, Albertine will also custom make a gown to your liking. The staff is beyond helpful when it comes to picking the color that best suits your skin tone. This boutique should be your first stop the next time you have that special occasion as you’ll have no trouble finding a dress that’s delightfully girly, yet sophisticated and sexy.


Elizabeth Bauer Design (43 Greenwich Ave)


This high-end, interior design boutique is like a candy store for your home. When you walk in, you’re immediately struck with colorful pillows, vibrant patterns and ornate mirrors. Nestled into every nook and cranny you’ll find glass doorknobs, silver tea cups and decorative napkin rings. Elizabeth Bauer brings in one-of-a-kind antiques from around the world to refurbish them with a modern feel. From lighting, to chairs, to accessories and art, this is the store to find that special piece you’ll cherish and pass down to your children.


The Bathroom (94 Charles St)

This bathroom boutique was created in the style of the traditional London apothecaries. With high-end soaps, lotions and candles from countries like England, France and Italy, you’ll find something for everyone in the family (even soft blankets for baby). Their top sellers include: Nesti Dante soaps, Seda France candles and the Dr. Hauschka Skin Care line. Sarah Jessica Parker is a fan (she lives down the street!) and it’s a great store to buy something nice for the person who has everything.


Verve – (338 Bleeker St)

No shopping trip is complete without a shoe splurge. Located on the famous Bleeker street shopping route, Verve is known for carrying shoes that are trendy, but also comfortable. They make an effort to offer shoes with heel-heights around two-inches high. With all the walking you do as a city dweller, it’s the perfect spot to pick up a few street friendly shoes at an affordable price.


Bobo (181 W 10th st)

By now you've probably worked up an appetite -- and you're in luck, because the West Village is known for some of the best restaurants in the city. So, when picking a good lunch spot, go for something with charm. This townhouse turned three-story eatery has a back deck perfect for relaxing and re-fueling yourself after a morning of shopping. Try the Lobster, Shrimp and Crab salad to start and the duck or short ribs for your entree. You'll leave refreshed, satisfied and ready to shop till you drop.

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