Where to Shop

  Previously we have discussed tee shirts, bottoms, shoes and accessories. We have touched the topic of suggestions for designers and styles, but the names of actual stores have not been explored. Now you may know what to buy, but don’t know where to get it. I figured we should discuss a few key stores to shop at in order to get your new look going!

  There are two main different categories of stores: specialty stores and department stores. I will discuss both, but it really comes down to the way you would prefer to shop. Specialty stores are generally smaller-individually owned stores that may be exclusive to one city. Another kind of specialty store can be chained, such as Urban Outfitters or Ricky’s. Department stores are generalized and they include such stores Macys, Von Maur, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdales. The main thing that sets these two styles of stores apart is that specialty stores have a more unique selection and only stock certain styles. This can allow you to find that eccentric tee shirt to match up with your diesel jeans.

  Let’s begin with specialty stores. Urban outfitters, as previously mentioned, is a great place to shop for everything! They have accessories, bottoms, tees, button-up shirts, jeans, and even shoes! They are always up-to-date with the recent trends and carry very unique designs. (www.urbanoutfitters.com) Since Urban Outfitters designs and merchandises their own items, you can find the fashionable accessories such as belts and hats that you may not find anywhere else. Another specialty store that is known for its fashion forward look is Atrium. Atrium has three locations in New York City, New Jersey, and Miami. They always have fresh new designers. If you are on the west coast and want the same feel, stop into Fred Segal in Los Angeles. The lists can go on and on, so next time you’re out strutting your new outfit, stop into a cool-looking specialty store where they may have something new to spice it up!

  Let’s move on to department stores. Starting at department stores, if you are just revamping your wardrobe, is a great idea. Then move on to specialty stores. I am sure all of you have been to a department store such as Macys. The wonderful thing about department stores is that the selection and stock of the items is impeccable. This is the main reason why I suggest beginning here for your new shopping. Most department stores do not carry the unique designs that specialty stores do. However, they will carry the basic overall styles that are similar. When cruising through a department store, you are able to find your Diesel jeans, your Levis cargos, your rock and roll tees, and your new belts all in one place! The list of items can go on and on. You can even stop and buy a new scent of cologne to match your new outfit, if you have a hot date! There are plenty of sales staff all over which can make your experience fabulous. I prefer to suggest Nordstrom because they have focused on the development of services for the customer. They make shopping easy!

  Specialty stores and department stores are both great places to shop. Just remember, if you are just beginning start with the department stores and move on to the specialty stores later. Now you not only have the knowledge of what to buy, but you know where to buy it. Summer is just around the corner, so you better hit the stores soon!

New York City

Lounge Soho
593 Broadway New York, NY 10012
212-226-7585
http://www.loungesoho.com/

Atrium NYC
644 Broadway New York, NY 10012
212-473-3980
http://www.atriumnyc.com/index.html

Michael K
512 Broadway, New York, NY 10012
212-334-9088



Chicago

E Street Denim
1876 First Street Highland Park, IL 60035
847-433-8338
http://www.estreetdenim.com/

Belmont Army
855 W Belmont Ave Chicago, IL 60657
773-384-8448
https://www.belmontarmy.com/default_old_01.htm



Boston

Karma Loop HQ
160 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116
617-369-0100
http://www.karmaloop.com/boston/index.asp








Los Angeles

Fred Segal
8100 Melrose Ave. West Hollywood CA 90069
(323) 655-3734

Traffic
Beverly Center Mall
8500 Beverly Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90048
(310) 659-4313

About the author:

  Rochel Friedlander has spent her last five years working in men’s fashion in New York City. Now living in Los Angeles, she continues to move forward in the fashion industry. During her sales experience, she has guided such retailers as Macys, Urban Outfitters, Atrium, E street denim, and National Jean Company to hit the right trends in the marketplace. Her knowledge of men’s fashion comes from her experience and extensive travel of the world. She has spent years living in London, England and toured through France, Australia, Greece, Italy, and many more countries. This has helped her understanding of European trends and how they are transposed into the North American market.