New York trip - what to buy (and wear...)

[Chimichangaz]

So, I have a trip to NY at the end of the month to celebrate my 50th birthday. First time there, got a jam packed itinerary of things to do including the usual touristy things (Empire State, 911 memorial, NH Museum) plus outdoor skating, Top of the Rock, Rockettes show, an ice hockey game etc. There is a half day space for shopping - we're there for Thanksgiving but I'm opting not to do the whole Black Friday thing as I couldn't face the crowds that day, so shopping at the weekend instead.

What are the suggestions for good buys while out there? I'm not a high fashion kind of girl, not bothered about labels it's about the look and a reasonable price. Tend to wear skinny jeans, blazers etc for casual and smart (suit/trousers/dresses) for work. I like beauty products and makeup so have already decided a trip to Sephora is in order, but what else is good to buy?

And what to wear - I know it will be cold so already planning on layers, but wondering how we can do the whole 'transform from day to night' for the days when we're out all day as tourists then eating/drinking before going back to the hotel??

Any advice gladly received!!

[cashewnutty]

You don't need to do any transforming, just go and eat in your sightseeing clothes. No-one will bat an eye and no-one will be dressed up unless you are planning to go to some really luxe places to eat and drink.

[Pointlessfan]

You lucky thing, I love NYC. Make sure you have really comfy shoes for walking, my feet were killing me after one day and I had to buy some light weight trainers there. It's really cold in winter so warm clothes essential.

[Gillybobs]

No Need to change for dinner, very casual vibe. Take or buy the comfiest shoes you can find you will not believe how much walking you will do....

I found only the American brands were cheaper, anything uk or European was just as expensive as at home. I really love Banana Republic and found it great value. It was a public holiday while we were there last month and they had 40%off your entire purchase so I made the most of it. Lovely branch on fifth avenue. I also really like Sam Edelman shoes but they are pricey here, got some lovely ankle boots from Maceys which were almost half what we would pay here

[Beketaten]

Century 21 is very close to the 9/11 site and packed with bargains, although you do have to rummage to find the good stuff. Shoes, boots and trainers are a good deal there, as are accessories like scarves and you can get big packs of things like Calvin Klein socks for stocking fillers very cheaply.

They also have a beauty hall with good deals and gifts with purchase, especially for the US brands. Clinique is a LOT cheaper for example.

It will be very busy in Thanksgiving week, but so will everywhere!

[Bakeoffcake]

I'm in NY at the moment, it's fab

We have been doing the touristy thing all day then finding some wear to eat straight after. No need to change clothes at all, it's very casual here.
I also second the advice about footwear. You will walk for mile- we did nearly 12 miles yesterday from our hotel through Central Park and back again. Plus a museum and other tourist bits along the way. Everyone seems to wear trainers.
It was 21 degrees here yesterday so I'd check the forecast just before you come. I don't think I'm going to get much wear out of my jumpers!
Have fun!
Oh my other tip is to bring earplugs. It's incredibly noisy- even at night.

[Bakeoffcake]

Somewhere

[Chimichangaz]

Thanks all.

Good to hear I don't have to worry too much about dressing up, potentially only 1 night where I will do that but we're back at the hotel first anyway.

Gilly - I like Banana Republic so will definitely look there.

Beke - thanks for the tip about Century 21 - it's now on my list.

Bakeoff - I'm going to order a new pair of Clarks boots to wear as my absolute faves and most comfy boots ever are falling to bits (Orinoco Jazz). Might have a look at trainers too, or possibly wait til I'm there.

[beguilingeyes]

This may be too late, but eat at Katz's Deli. Just wonderful.