Assets London
Address: 464 Columbus (between West 82nd & 83rd Street)
Phone: 212-874-8253
These trendy European fashions continue to attract a fierce following among those looking for a "downtown" look. In fact, their other branch is located downtown. Both offer a really fabulous selection of high-quality, up-to-the-minute threads with a decidedly adventurous bent.
Betsey Johnson
Address: 248 Columbus Avenue (between West 71st & 72nd Street)
Phone: 212-362-3364
Website: www.betseyjohnson.com
Back in the day, Betsey Johnson paved the way for gothic fashion. Once known for her black lacy, lace-up dresses, she has since evolved into a broader range of styles and colors. The emphasis remains the same: Fun, flirty and fully feminine. Whether your taste runs toward traditional or punk, you will always find something for that special occasion.
Wanna get into that roller blade thing? How about snowboarding? Whether you're already into it or just want to give it a whirl, this is your place. The knowledgeable staff will get you all geared up for fun on wheels.
Greenstones
Address: 442 Columbus Avenue (between West 81st & 82nd Street)
Phone: 212-580-4322
Pricey, high-quality kids clothes that hail from Europe. Their line of French apparel is particularly popular. Ranging from cute to precious to downright downtown, you will wish that you could still fit into some of these fabulously inventive threads.
Known for showcasing some of the grooviest, second-hand things in town, all four locations of this store have garnered a serious following among those looking for something a little different, who want to give a little to charity at the same time. The granddaddy of Manhattan thrift shops, you never know what you'll pick up here, from a turn-of-the-century hand-carved mannequin to a restaurant-grade espresso maker.
Really Great Things
Address: 284 Columbus Avenue (between West 73rd & 74th Street)
Phone: 212-787-5354
Yeah, it's sort of expensive, but the clothing here is completely out of the ordinary. Couture from Europe and Japan among other domestic selections. If you're on a budget, try the 300 Columbus Avenue location, which features a more affordable ready-to-wear collection.
Robert Marc
Address: 190 Columbus Avenue (between West 68th & 69th Street)
Phone: 212-799-4600
Website: www.robertmarc.com
These great looking designer glasses make the term "four eyes" an enviable condition. Fashion statement lenses with that urban European feel that will make you look and see better. Not for the meek of heart or wallet.
Theory
Address: 230 Columbus Avenue (between West 70th & 71st Street)
Phone: 212-362-3676
Website: theory.com
Featuring a sleek, urban, somewhat staid aesthetic, Theory has garnered a loyal following among women who prefer an updated classic look. Crossing from business casual to sedate evening wear with daunting ease, this is a one-stop shop for every fashion need, if your taste runs toward the understated.