Journeywoman - Cheap Shopping -- New York

We welcome Boston-based writer and shopping pro, Jennifer Wood to our Journeywoman Network. As the co-author of Mr. Cheap's New York guide (updated second edition), this woman really knows about the best shopping bargains the Big Apple has to offer. Within the following juicy tips, Jennifer shares ten of her intriguing finds. She writes...

New York City is a place full of contradictions. While it is well known as one of the most expensive cities in the world, it is also a bargain hunter's paradise. Whichever neighborhood you're in, you can guarantee there's a bargain lurking around every corner. Here are some spots in the Big Apple where a woman can go on a guilt-free shopping spree and still have enough money left over for dinner.

Cosmetic Market...
9 East 39th Street
212.725.3625
No, all those great little samples of make-up and perfume don't go to Sample Heaven when Bonus Time and other promotions end; they go to Cosmetic Market. In addition to these samples, Cosmetic Market carries remainders from all the big names. Riffle through the tons of cosmetics from Clinique, Chanel, Lancôme, Max Factor, and L'Oreal. Bargains to be uncovered include bottles of Chanel nail polish for $5.50 apiece, and L'Oreal Feria hair coloring for just $1.00.

Alice Underground...
481 Broadway (at Broome Street)
212.431.9067
If you're tired of seeing the same style of clothing in every single store and on every single body that walks by, consider going vintage. Each day, Alice Underground sets aside a number of bargain bins, like a "$6.00 Leather" bin. At the back of the store, they also offer a selection of gorgeous antique linens and fabrics for just about every room in the house.

Fishs Eddy...
889 Broadway (at 19th Street)
212.420.9020
2176 Broadway (at 77th Street)
212.873.8819

If you're looking for something unique (and perhaps a little bit kitschy) for your home, there's no place like Fishs Eddy. They offer restaurant-quality dinnerware, flatware, glassware, and more. Whether you're looking for an entire plate set or just one great coffee mug, Fishs Eddy will provide you with plenty of choices.

Orchard Street...
119 Orchard Street
212.674.6720
212.677.2043
Stand where Orchard and Delancey Streets intersect and you'll find yourself smack dab in the middle of the Orchard Street Bargain District where, as the name suggests, bargains abound! Walk around and check out any store that appeals to you. Some of my favorites? Fine and Klein (119 Orchard Street, 212.674.6720) sells designer handbags and wallets at about 30 percent below retail; while, half a flight up, Lea's (119 Orchard Street, 212.677.2043) offers similar savings on women's sportswear by well-known European designers. Rummage through the stock and you will probably find something that suits your fancy.

More on finding fab jewelry, super sample sales, tarot cards and candle sticks...