Some woman count on Ann Taylor for the foundation of their work wardrobe. Conservative and classic enough for any corporate environment, many women also love the way they fit. Ann Taylor clothes are known to flatter any physique. For the smaller woman, there is now a specific store just for them in the adjacent Ann Taylor Petites.

Yet another iteration of the familiar chain, this location carries the usual selection of quality silks, linens and separates. Whether you're looking for something business casual, something dressy or informal, this is the tried-and-true for modest-priced basics.

For those who appreciate a fine stogie, this specialty shop caters to an eclectic mix of corporate types and a smattering of damn-near everyone else (though in lesser proportions). There are also a few interesting gift items for the smoker who has everything.

Although Brooks Brothers has a few larger locations uptown, the downtown store is a Wall Street legacy. Their tailored suits, oxford button downs and the like set the standard for traders, bankers and financial services folks of all stripes. Top service and a well-earned reputation for quality make this a one-stop shop for business attire.

This wine store isn't in the World Financial Center. Rather, it's in the center of Battery Park City's more residential area. It's got a fairly small but well-edited group of wines available. The service is friendly and unless you're in the market for something more daring, they can probably provide you with what you seek.

When Century 21 closed after 9/11, fashion-conscious bargain-hunters across the city mourned. And when it reopened, it was cause for celebration. Hey, even Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City came here for a little somethin' somethin'. A place to hunt for treasure, here you will find racks and mountains of designer stuff at deep, deep discount prices. Absolutely worth the effort if you're in the market for something fabulous on a budget and don't mind sifting through thousands of garments and dealing with the often incredibly crowded store.

Chocolate aficionados are already aware of Christopher Norman's top quality confections. A supplier to Dean & Deluca among other high-end gourmet shops, they only recently opened their own boutique. Here you can watch and smell them being made. Just try and avoid a purchase.

If a stroll down Sixth Street's Little India, a.k.a., Curry Row, leaves you yearning for something a bit more exotic, try this place. Here you can buy every spice and seasoning you'll need to cook up your own Indian feast. They also sell incense, Indian beer and a few other dining accessories.

Set on a quiet cobblestone street, this place is a fabulous find. Run by the folks who own Bayard's restaurant, the European baked goods and pastries are exceptional. In addition to stellar baked goods, they also offer a wonderful selection of holiday gift items.

This tiny place has been a temple to the fountain pen since 1946. They offer an extensive collection of contemporary and vintage fit for any taste or occasion. They also can repair just about everything, even that turn-of-the-century Watermen pen your grandfather gave you for college graduation. To say that the staff knows its stuff is a radical understatement.

In Manhattan there is always a Gap nearby should you need one. All the easy-going casual wear, including all the sweaters, sweatshirts and jeans you've come to expect, are available at this branch. Nothing special but comfortable and familiar.

A New York institution, J&R is actually comprised of several smaller specialty shops. The most famous are the electronics and the music outlets. Also part of this mega-complex are the outlets for small appliances, cameras, computers and portables. All of them offer great selections and low prices for brand name gear. The staff tends to be a bit harried, but if there's some widget or gadget on your wish list, this is the place to come and get it.

One of the more exciting fashion boutiques in this ultra-yuppy mall, Monmatre is a mini-chain that carries such designers as Theory, Nanette Lepore and Rebecca Taylor. Their original store graced the upper west side for over 20 years. They've since tripled their exposure to an outpost at the new Time Warner Center.

This outpost of the Swiss chocolatier is just the place to pick up a quick gift before heading home. Consistently rated among the best chocolates around, their truffles are renowned.

Planning on doing a little mountain climbing? How about camping? Or maybe you're in the market for a heavy-duty winter coat? No matter, Tent and Trails is packed from floor to ceiling with all the outdoor gear you could possibly need. They also carry stuff like flashlights and cookers for the next time you're backpacking in Alaska. The staff here really knows their stuff.

This is the downtown branch of this store. The other one is at 47th and Third Avenue. Both carry a huge selection of clubs and offer the kind of service that keeps customers coming back again and again. This branch also features an array of equipment to help analyze your swing. They also have staff on hand in case you need emergency technical assistance.

This tiny store has a surprising selection of classic watches with a few borderline funky designer items mixed in. Fairly middle of the road, but if you're in the area and in dire need of a watch or watch battery, come and get it.

Founded in 1884, this shop has been selling fine jewelry, pens and watches for generations. They only carry gift items like Montblanc pens and desk supplies. Or if you're in need of a little servicing, there's an on-site repair shop and a staff of qualified appraisers.

One of the few florists in the area. Not outstanding but certainly more than adequate for a quick bouquet or some flowers for the table. Check carefully and you are sure to find something suitable for your needs.