Looking for the latest urban and denim fashions? Then head to the corner of 54th Street and Fifth Avenue, where you’ll find Diesel’s largest Planet store. They offer over 700 different denim styles and washes on every floor -- as well as bags, footwear, intimates, leather goods, jewelry, timeframes, sunglasses, and fragrances. In addition, there is an on-site DJ mixing up the latest tunes to enhance the shopping experience. Other locations: 770 Lexington Ave. at 60th St., 212-308-0055; 1 Union Square West at 14th St., 646-336-8552; 135 Spring St. btw. Wooster & Greene Sts., 212-625-1555. 685 Fifth Ave. at 54th St., 212-755-3555; diesel.com.
The Sony Style store is home to all things Sony, allowing you to experience Sony products first-hand, with the benefit of experienced and helpful sales associates. Sony Style features an array of Sony’s consumer electronics and entertainment, including Bravia HDTVs, VAIO personal computers, Cyber-shot Digital Still cameras, portable entertainment, and much more. Also, check out their magnificent Philip Johnson-designed corporate headquarters: It’s one of the city’s foremost postmodern buildings, famous for its “Chippendale” keyhole top. Sony Plaza, 550 Madison Ave. btw. 55th & 56th Sts., 212-833-8800; sonystyle.com.
Planning a big outdoor excursion this summer? Tent & Trails is NYC’s most complete outdoor store in NYC with 6,000 square feet stuffed with the most up-to-date, high-tech backpacking and climbing equipment, clothing, and tents. They carry a complete selection of clothing, footwear, and equipment from world-famous brands such as North Face, Mountain Hardware, Osprey, Ibex, Westcomb, and many others. 21 Park Place (Church St.), 212-227-1760;
tenttrails.com.
The famed toy emporium FAO Schwarz’s flagship store has evolved from a simple toy supplier into a must-see destination, boasting surprises around every corner. Visit the Barefoot Bookshop on the second floor, where kids can listen to storytellers read their favorite books or participate in kid-friendly yoga on soft mats; or kick off your shoes and let your inner Beethoven come alive on the Big Piano. With a personal shopping department and real-life toy soldiers to greet you, FAO Schwarz is the perfect addition to your New York City experience. 767 Fifth Ave. (58th St.), 212-644-9400; fao.com.
Browse to your heart’s content at Manhattan Judaica; whether you need ceremonial items for a holiday or an upcoming event, or a gift for someone special back home, this store has an unparalleled selection of Judaica and gift items. From jewelry to art, souvenirs to sterling silver, taleisim to mezuzahs, music to books, they have it all. 62 W. 45th St., 212-719-1918;
manhattanjudaica.com.
Experience one of the world’s largest selections of fine writing instruments at Art Brown International Pen Shop. They have been in business since 1928 with a staff that will help you find the right pen for your need. Whether for yourself, a gift, or for corporate giving, they can direct you to a perfect writing instrument. They also carry a full line of stationery and greeting cards, which can be personalized. 2 W. 45th St. at Fifth Ave., 800-772-PENS; artbrown.com.
And last but not least: Could you use a little relaxation after a long day shopping? Or would you like a stylish new hairstyle when you arrive home? Head to Salon Ziba, which is currently celebrating its 20th anniversary. Named for the Spanish word for “beautiful,” the chic, bi-level salon is home to a talented, international team of stylists specializing in all hair types and offering style and beauty services at affordable prices. They’ve attracted a loyal and diverse clientele, including celebrities like model Adriana Lima, spiritual guru Deepak Chopra, and editor Pamela Fiori. Their master technicians provide up-to-date color and cuts while estheticians deliver healing facials, depilatory, nail services, and relaxing massages. On Tuesday, July 20th, as part of their 20th anniversary, they will be offering $20 pedicures; on Tuesday, Aug. 20th, it’s $20 L’Oreal Cataplasma Nature treatments. 200 W. 57th St., 212-767-0577; salonziba.com.
