The stores where you want to shop in New York

I dare to bet that everyone who comes to NYC has ‘shopping’ on their to-do list. Am I right? Everyone has a few stores they absolutely want to visit. May I suggest a few stores to add to that list?

And since shopping can be exhausting, you need to make sure you stay fit. We've all been half-naked in the fitting room and with a stomach that suddenly starts protesting. No one feels like searching for food or caffeine for half an hour then. That's why I also refer to a nice eatery or coffee spot nearby for each store. (You can thank Adeline for this clever idea).

Glossier | Beauty

123 Lafayette Street

You can have Glossier products delivered right to the Netherlands, so technically you don't need to go here. But do it anyway, because this is a design gem. Think Wes Anderson's interpretation of Greek houses, something like that. And the shopping experience is quite unique and futuristic. For a quick bite, head to: Baz Bagel & Restaurant. Bagels are a must-have part of a NYC trip and Baz's bagels are a good option. If you're in the mood for Chinese, go to XO Kitchen (not fancy, but tasty).

Reformation | Clothing

156 Ludlow Street

We already know that sustainable clothing doesn't have to be boring. Reformation knows how to do it better than anyone and has a long list of cool fans. Tip from An: twice a year they have a sale that skyrockets within a few days to 70%. You’re welcome.

If you go to their Lower East Side location, take a break at: Tinys Giant Sandwich Shop where you can get delicious coffee and well-filled sandwiches.

McNally Jackson | Books and Magazines

52 Prince Street

Since you're reading this, I assume you love reading. If I guessed that right, you should stop by McNally Jackson. Their Nolita location has a cozy atmosphere and sells not only books but also has a diverse selection of magazines. There's a café in the store, so if your arms get tired from lifting books, you can sit down right away and let the caffeine do its work.

L Train | Vintage

201 1st Avenue

If you love vintage shopping, L Train is a dream. They have a large selection and it's super cheap. You can find denim jackets for $6 and Levi's jeans for ten bucks, just to give an example. There are multiple locations in Brooklyn and one store in the East Village in Manhattan. If you go to the East Village location, recharge your batteries at: Baker’s Pizza for the best slice in the city (everyone will label a different pizza place as ‘the best’, but this is truly the best).

Lively | Bras

242 Lafayette Street

Maybe I'm doing something wrong, but I've been very disappointed by Victoria and her secrets in the past. Those secrets were less interesting than I had imagined. Plus, I found it very confronting to be stared at by photos of Victoria's stunning clique while shopping. Now I've found Lively and she is much friendlier. The brand makes super comfortable bras that give your friends good support and look top-notch. The store has an incredible Pinterest living room vibe and has a few posters on the wall with ‘real’ bodies. I'm a fan. Take a shopping break at: If you're in the mood for a quick and yummy Mexican bite, go to Tacombi on Elizabeth Street.

Goods for the Study | Stationery

50 W 8th Street

I have a small (read: mega) obsession with stationery. If you're like me, Goods for the Study is your heaven. There are two locations, one in Nolita and one in Greenwich Village. The latter is my favorite because it's much larger. They have the coolest notebooks, prettiest planners, and sweetest cards.

In Greenwich Village, go to: Stumptown Coffee Roasters for a good coffee and a fluffy croissant.

Everlane | Clothing

104 N 6th Street, Brooklyn

For a new work outfit or good, modern basics, you need to go to Everlane. They have stores in Nolita and Williamsburg. This brand makes clothing in an eco-friendly and ethical way, but doesn't charge the earth for it. This way, you can treat yourself to a nice new sweater or comfy pants without feeling guilty about it. Win-win!

In Williamsburg, take a shopping break at: Gotan for good coffee and sandwiches.

Beacon’s Closet | Vintage

10 W 13th Street

For high-end vintage, Beacon’s Closet is the place to be. They have multiple locations, all packed to the brim with beautiful things at nice prices. Take your time to search through the overflowing racks for your new favorite items.

If you go to the Greenwich Village location, grab a quick bite at: Num Pang Kitchen where you’ll find the tastiest Cambodian sandwiches and bowls.

Catbird | Jewelry

219 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn

We are all fans of simple jewelry: thin necklaces, cute earrings, and beautiful rings. At Catbird in Williamsburg, you'll find everything for the perfect ‘ear party’ or ‘ring stack’. If you're shining from gold and silver and need a break, go to: Partners Coffee for a good cup of coffee or to Café Mogador for a delicious Mediterranean lunch.

Written by: Anna van der Heijden