From one-of-a-kind jewelry sold by quirky street vendors to off-the-runway garments found in designer boutiques, Manhattan’s SoHo is known the world over as a shopping Mecca. Trend-setting celebs, well-heeled Manhattanites and international fashion darlings flock to this charming, yet bustling neighborhood to stroll the cobblestoned streets in search of the latest styles. Fashion powerhouses like Prada, Marc Jacobs, Chanel, Bloomingdale’s and Dolce & Gabbana are flanked by antique stores, galleries and sidewalk cafes. SoHo is so named because it lies directly South of Houston Street, with prime blocks encompassing Spring, Prince and Broome streets between Broadway and 6th Avenue.
Stop in at Longchamp, housed in a beautifully designed three-story space on Spring Street. Originating over half a century ago in France as a producer of leather goods, Longchamp has since expanded to include clothing, scarves and bags, including the classic Le Pliage line of foldable vinyl travel bags. If you’re looking for something more avant garde, get your hands on the sophisticated black patent leather Gatsby handbag, a nod to the Roaring Twenties in detail and name, with a bold leopard-print lining. Even more daring is the purple patent leather Rival tote bag, a must-have from the Rodeo line featuring metallic zippers and modern rivets.
Head one block south to Broome Street to splurge at Catherine Malandrino, where chic styles cater to fashion-forward femmes. Malandrino’s distinct style encompasses a large range of eclectic prints and colors, and her collections mix different fabrics like chiffon and wool. Flowing dresses and loose-fitting pants have inventive cuts that accentuate what women love of their curves, legs or bust. In addition to seasonal collections, the boutique also has a selection of handbags and shoes to complete the striking Malandrino look.