If you were going to New York, what clothes or make up would you be taking home?

[Absentmindedwoman]

As I'm going to New York for a few days soon, I thought I'd check with the collective wisdom of Mumsnet to see what's what.

I'd like to bring home a couple of bits and pieces - I dunno, maybe a dress or a couple of tops or something - as I am trying to reinvigorate my wardrobe which needs sorting.

Are there any brands that are absolute steals to buy stateside?

All suggestions gratefully noted. Thanks!

Anything made in the USA and NOT imported. However with the £/$ exchange rate being so dire, nothing is a steal! We recently bought a few things we just cannot get here. DH likes Cole Hahn shoes. Jeans can be good value. American brands are cheaper. DH used to get whole outfits from Banana Republic but there is little value to be had now. We more or less ditched the shopping this time but ate in better restaurants. That was not cheap but worth it!

I was in New York last year and I found it quite disappointing for clothes shopping. I'm sure it's different if you have a designer budget but the high street choice is abysmal.

What they do have are really good second hand shops ('consignment stores') where you'll find well looked after designer stuff at very good prices. You need to enjoy rummaging but, if I go again, that's what I'll be doing. The biggest one I found was Tokyo 7 which I think was in the East Village.

I've seen other posts about make up bargains so I'm sure someone will be along soon to recommend some brands.

It's still a great city though!

Sephora for makeup. There's a 24 hr
Store in Times Square. And American brands like Clinique are much cheaper. There's usually a promotion in Macy's or Bloomingdales. Clothes are a bit meh IMO, unless you're a teenager: Urban Outfitters, Victoria's Secret, American Apparel and Brandy Melville are much cheaper there, Mum clothes are frumpy and expensive! wouldn't plan a day around clothes shopping.
Having said that I always bring back loads- Nike trainers and the aforementioned teenager appropriate clothes

JCrew! Much much cheaper and usually seem to have reductions in store as well. I adore their jeans.

Gap and banana republic were cheaper out there last time I went, but perhaps not if the exchange rate is against us. Also some sportier / surfer type stuff if you like that look - billabong and that type of thing.

There's a good outlet village in New Jersey, but you have to dedicate a whole day really, which is a waste on a short trip.

Jcrew - sign up to the american websites and hopefully you'll get a generous discount code.
Don't buy full price banana - they always have a discount.

Thank you!

It's a pity about the exchange rate, but I'm not going to shop really so not too bothered - more that if there are any bargains I want to snap them up in passing.

I will sign up for J Crew (haven't any of their stuff, but have just looked at their site and liked a few things) and also will make sure to go to Victoria's Secret.

Sephora - I've heard lots about but again it's not something I've ever bought, so will have a look when I'm there.

A few years ago I'd have been stocking up on Clinique but my derm strongly advises against it, so that won't be happening. The consignment stores sound lots of fun, I love charity shops so will have to have a look

If you like 2nd hand and charity shops you're in for a treat - loads better than here (well at least better than where I live)! I came home with a Burberry and a Prada skirt that cost about £30 in total. I'll try and check where the best ones are although obviously it's random.

Forever 21 is good fun,
clinique wasnt any cheaper when i looked in Macys
there's a polo shirt shop near time square thats nice (works out about £15 a shirt, and they are nice quality)

I buy Wet n Wild Makeup - 99cents for a REALLY long eyeliner (you can get it from Duanne Reed, or Walgreens or probably other places)
Also - if you have space, Aussie Moist shampoo and conditioner, $7 for big pump tub

if you can get to the outlet stores, they're definitely worth a visit, but sign up before you go, and if you are able to go more than once, buy something REALLY cheap first and then you get emailed loads of offers to use