Topshop in downtown Soho. Photo Courtesy: http://www.solostyle.it/01042009/negozio-topshop-a-new-york-domani-la-cerimonia-di-apertura/

Everyone knows the heavy-hitters when it comes to shopping in NYC. These are the stores that draw in tourists from all over the world: Bergdorf’s, Bloomingdales, Saks, the European designer stores on Fifth Ave. But having lived in the city for 3 months now (working in fashion, mind you), I’ve discovered some lesser known, more affordable options with the same iconic New York style that are just as fabulous as the top-dollar choices. Here are my top picks.

1. TOPSHOP. With chic clothing and unique style, this not-so-little gem is an absolute must. Prices can vary, from $12 tee shirts to $80 sweaters and blazers for $120. For men, their AAA collection (rock and roll style) is especially trendy and unique.

2. CENTURY 21. No, not the real estate company. Dubbed “New York’s Best Kept Secret”, this massive city-block-long department store is home to the best designer discounts in the city. You can get the newest collections for more than half the original price, and then some. On my most recent visit I purchased a Dolce & Gabbana sweater for $70. The trek down to Tribeca is totally worth it.

3. ALL SAINTS. While it may be a little pricey for most of the year ($150 for a sweater… shut up it was necessary), if you can manage to go in late July/early August you’ll catch their once a year sale which marks down items up to 70%. This includes their famous leather jackets, which can go from upwards of $700 all the way down to $200, just in time for fall.

4. PATRICIA FIELD. Designer store devoted to the woman who styled Sex and the City and Ugly Betty, this one is for those with a more adventurous style, to say the least. Though the loud noises and distracting colors and prints may be enough to repel some shoppers, it’s the only store on the lower east side where you can find flirty party dresses mixed with geometric jewelry, latex arm-length gloves, ammo belts, vibrators, and jumpsuits for men. Did I mention you can also get your hair cut?

5. RAG & BONE. This American brand has been garnishing attention on the runways for years. While it’s definitely the steepest of the lot price-wise, you are paying for quality with pieces that feel both classic and modern, meaning they’ll never go out of style. A trip to the West Village may just be worth that unpleasant call from your parents (or credit card company).

-Will Defebaugh, Creative Director