MY NYC DOWNTOWN SHOPPING GUIDE REVEALED

Living in lower Manhattan used to be a drag when it came to shopping. I was always schlepping uptown to flatiron or venturing to Soho for my afternoon weekend shopping. It was especially frustrating when you wanted to buy something new for dinner that night, but couldn't justify the taxi cab each way to get you to wherever you were going. Now, that has all changed. Stores galore have opened across southern Manhattan making it easier than ever to pick up your last minute weekends needs from beauty to bathing suits. These are some of my favorite shops that I visit over and over and always leave a happy shopper.

Saks Downtown
The baby sister to the mega-department store on 5th ave, this spot is stocked with all your high-end needs when you are in the mood to spend some serious dough. Don't expect the vast selection they have in the midtown location. This is a smaller, more intimate assortment that offers the basic necessities when shopping contemporary luxe like Alexis, Caroline Constas, Phillip Lim and Rebecca Taylor.

Edon Manor
This shop only offers a selection of shoes and bags by high end brands like Proenza, Alexandre Birman, and Altuzurra. A store that positions itself to the more privileged buyer, it has become my window shopping habit. Just lusting after the burgundy suede booties in the window is enough for me. If you are looking for some serious shoes this is the spot to check out.

Club Monaco
I love a good Club Monaco, and this wouldn't be on my list if I didn't especially like this location. The highly curated mix of cashmere, ivory denim and pretty floral blouses is the perfect fix I need on a Sunday afternoon while shopping in Brookfield Place.

Century 21
If anyone makes a list of top downtown places to shop and doesn't include C21, they are just being foolish.  A goldmine of European designers, this stocks the most luxurious furs, sumptuous suede boots and fabulous coats. Don't forget to check out the handbag section of discounted Valentino, Fendi and Pucci. It is almost impossible to walk away empty-handed.

Anthropologie
A hidden gem among the hustle and bustle of the Financial District, this is situated directly across the street from Century 21. Most unfamiliar with the geography of the Financial District may not understand why this store is so special, but it stands out from the mom and pop stores and random Duane Reades in the area. Their home design section is superb and has items I haven't seen elsewhere. They also carry more high price pointed products in this store, offering a more unique assortment than other Anthros I've shopped.