Finding the perfect dress in the Upper East Side can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack – a very fashionable haystack, of course! This vibrant neighborhood boasts a diverse array of boutiques and department stores, each offering unique styles and price points. To help you navigate this stylish landscape, we've compiled a list of the top 22 dress stores in the Upper East Side, catering to every taste and budget. Whether you're looking for a little black dress for a cocktail party, a flowing maxi dress for a summer wedding, or a chic everyday dress, you're sure to find it on this curated list.
Designer Dreams & High-End Finds:
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Bergdorf Goodman: This iconic department store is a must-visit for luxury fashion. Their dress selection is unparalleled, featuring collections from the world's top designers. Expect to find exquisite gowns, sophisticated cocktail dresses, and timeless pieces. Price range: High-end.
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Saks Fifth Avenue: Another Upper East Side staple, Saks offers a similar level of luxury to Bergdorf Goodman, with an equally impressive selection of designer dresses. They often host trunk shows and special events showcasing new collections. Price range: High-end.
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Barneys New York (Closed): While sadly no longer operating, Barneys New York held a significant place in the UES's luxury fashion scene. It's worth noting its legacy, as its curated selection and unique style set it apart. Price range: Was High-end.
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Intermix: This boutique curates a collection of contemporary and designer dresses, striking a balance between trendsetting style and investment pieces. They're known for their unique mix of established and emerging brands. Price range: High to mid-range.
Chic Boutiques & Unique Styles:
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Alice + Olivia: This contemporary brand offers stylish and playful dresses perfect for a range of occasions, from work to weekend. They are known for their bold prints and unique silhouettes. Price range: Mid-range to high.
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Henri Bendel (Closed): Similar to Barneys, Henri Bendel's closure leaves a void in the UES's stylish landscape. Their unique aesthetic and dedication to emerging designers deserve recognition. Price range: Was Mid-range.
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Cynthia Rowley: This designer's boutique showcases her signature blend of bohemian chic and modern sophistication. You'll find flowing dresses, vibrant prints, and unique details. Price range: Mid-range to high.
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Milly: Milly offers a range of sophisticated and modern dresses, perfect for both everyday wear and special events. They excel at creating versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down. Price range: Mid-range to high.
Mid-Range Marvels & Everyday Elegance:
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Ann Taylor: A reliable choice for classic and versatile dresses, Ann Taylor offers a wide selection of styles for work, weekend, and special occasions. Their pieces are known for their quality and timeless appeal. Price range: Mid-range.
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Banana Republic: Similar to Ann Taylor, Banana Republic provides a dependable selection of dresses for various occasions. Expect a mix of classic and trendy styles at accessible prices. Price range: Mid-range.
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J.Crew: Another solid option for everyday dresses, J.Crew offers a range of styles, from classic shirtdresses to more contemporary designs. They often collaborate with other designers for limited-edition collections. Price range: Mid-range.
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LOFT: LOFT provides a more affordable alternative to J.Crew and Ann Taylor, offering trendy and comfortable dresses at accessible prices. They focus on wearable styles with a modern twist. Price range: Mid-range to lower.
Budget-Friendly Finds & Hidden Gems:
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Zara: This international retailer offers trendy dresses at incredibly affordable prices. Expect a constantly evolving selection of styles, reflecting current fashion trends. Price range: Budget-friendly.
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H&M: H&M provides a similar budget-friendly alternative to Zara, with a wide range of styles and sizes. They're a great place to find fashionable dresses without breaking the bank. Price range: Budget-friendly.
Specialty Stores & Unique Finds:
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Aritzia: This Canadian retailer has gained popularity in the US for its stylish and well-made dresses. They offer a mix of contemporary and classic designs. Price range: Mid-range.
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Anthropologie: Anthropologie offers a more bohemian and eclectic selection of dresses, known for their unique prints and styles. They're a great place to find something truly unique. Price range: Mid-range to high.
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Free People: Similar to Anthropologie, Free People offers a bohemian and free-spirited collection of dresses. Expect flowing fabrics, intricate details, and unique designs. Price range: Mid-range to high.
Bridal & Special Occasion Boutiques:
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Kleinfeld Bridal: While primarily a bridal shop, Kleinfeld also carries a selection of special occasion dresses for bridesmaids, mothers of the bride, and other guests. Price range: High-end.
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Mark Ingram Atelier: Known for its exquisite bridal gowns, Mark Ingram Atelier also carries a selection of high-end special occasion dresses. Price range: High-end.
Consignment & Vintage Shops:
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The RealReal: This luxury consignment store offers a curated selection of pre-owned designer dresses at discounted prices. It's a great place to find high-quality pieces at a fraction of the original cost. Price range: Varies.
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Buffalo Exchange: This popular consignment shop offers a wider range of styles and brands, including both vintage and contemporary dresses. Price range: Varies.
Online Options with Upper East Side Delivery:
- Many online retailers, such as Net-a-Porter, Shopbop, and Nordstrom, offer same-day or next-day delivery to the Upper East Side, providing additional options for finding your perfect dress. Price range: Varies.
This list provides a comprehensive overview of the many fantastic dress stores available in the Upper East Side of NYC. Remember to check websites for hours and availability before your visit. Happy shopping!
