Shopping and consumer culture has been with us in one form or another for many years now. From Émile Zola’s depiction of le Bon Marché, the world’s first department store, in Au Bonheur des dames, or ‘The Ladies’ Paradise’, we are told about the inner workings of the store, dating back to the 1880s. Today, whether you are travelling for work or for leisure, a visit to the local shops can tell you a lot about a city. In this article, we will run through the top spots for shopping in three wonderful and different cities: Dublin, New York and London. From renowned shopping locations to hidden gems you might not have heard of, this article covers all bases.
Best shopping experiences in Dublin
Grafton Street and Brown Thomas
Grafton Street is Dublin’s most famous shopping street. Brown Thomas, Dublin’s luxury department store, located just off Grafton Street, is a real treat for the senses. This store houses some of the world’s most sought-after brands. Even if you don’t buy something, a visit here is always going to be a pleasurable experience. With four floors of fashion, beauty, homewares and accessories, this is a shopaholic’s paradise.
For those who like designer labels but prefer a more vintage look, Siopella is the place for you. Siopella sells vintage designer accessories that are both timeless and unique. Catering to all price-points, you can find everything from Chanel to Longchamp. This store offers a sustainable way to treat yourself to a designer piece.
If you want some Irish-made, quality attire, Dubarry is worth a visit. This store specialises in outdoor- wear, selling leather boots and jackets, made for exploring the great outdoors in the Irish countryside. A haven for high-quality Irish design, located near Dublin’s historic Trinity College, this is where to go to find a piece that will remind you of your trip to Ireland.
Avoca is an Irish company which sells everything from home accessories and knitwear to food. The company originated as a weaving mill, founded in 1723. Today, Avoca’s Suffolk St. location features 7 floors of Irish craft and design, as well as a café on the top floor for some delicious refreshments.
Best shopping experiences in London
Liberty’s striking tudor-style façade makes this a must-visit for your trip to London. The store, built in 1924, has an iconic legacy in London and is home to six floors of British design as well as offerings from around the world. It is even possible to explore the history of this British institution through a guided tour.
Harrods is perhaps the world’s most famous department store, and is home to fashion, beauty and high-end jewellery, among other things. It is also known for its famous food halls, where you can browse and try some of the finest delicacies on offer in London. One of these halls is even dedicated to chocolate! Even if just to browse, Harrods is worth a visit.
Bond Street is London’s equivalent to Fifth Avenue or the Champs-Élysées, with every designer under the sun having a store on this Mayfair street. Here, you can check out classic British brands such as Burberry and Stella McCartney, but also brands from further afield such as Chanel, Prada and Gucci. The street also features lots of trendy restaurants to fuel your day of shopping!
For those travelling with little ones, Hamleys is a must. The store, which first opened in 1760, houses seven floors of toys and games. Its flagship on Regent Street is paradise on earth for both children and adults alike. With installations and displays on every corner, it is easy to see why this store is so popular and has expanded to other cities in recent years.
Best shopping experiences in New York
Fifth Avenue
It wouldn’t be a trip to New York without a visit to Fifth Avenue. Home to some of the world’s most expensive retail spaces, here you can find every designer you could think of. Visit the flagship Tiffany & co. store, outside which Audrey Hepburn’s iconic scene in Breakfast at Tiffany’s was filmed in 1960. Located near Central Park, you can escape for some time in nature once you are all shopped out!
Woodbury Common Premium Outlets
If you have some free time in New York, it is worth venturing out to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. Located an hour outside of Manhattan, this outlet centre offers discounted designer goods across 250 different brands, including American classics like Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger.
Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village offers a unique shopping experience in the Big Apple, with a mix of independent designers and high-street retailers. From homeware to unique clothing, this quieter area in New York provides a more relaxed, laid back day of shopping. Anine Bing, known for her Scandinavian designs, has a store between here and the West Village. For some high quality denim, check out 7 For All Mankind.
