Leekan Designs... 93 Mercer Street (between Broome & Spring Streets) 212.226.7226 The merchandise in this Asian folk art inspired store is almost as beautiful as the shop itself. Their vast array of unique items makes just as great a gift for someone special as it does a memento of your trip. The inventory here includes just about any sort of jewelry or accessory you could imagine. I was taken aback by the gorgeous porcelain bracelets, and even more surprised by their $8.00 price tags! Leekan Designs is certainly one place where you can look like you shop in SoHo, without paying SoHo prices.

SSS Sample Sale... 261 West 36th Street 212.947.8748 Sample sales are one of the best ways to save money on top designer clothing. The real trouble comes when you're trying to locate one of these sales. When dealing with this shop there is absolutely no need to wonder. At SSS Sample Sale, there's always a sale going on. Visit their website at http://www.clothingline.com to find out which fabulous designers will be showing when you're in town. How's that for convenience?

Star Magic... 745 Broadway (below 8th Street) 212.228.7770 1256 Lexington Avenue (between 84th & 85th Streets) 212.988.0300 If browsing through an enormous inventory of new age books, jewelry, and other unique items sounds like a great way to while away an afternoon, Star Magic awaits you. There's Tarot cards, candles and check out their fantastic selection of unusual jewelry -- made with amethyst, amber, malachite, and moonstone -- at prices that can't be beat. There's always something new and interesting to see here.

Portico Outlet... 233 Tenth Avenue (at 24th Street) 212.807.8807 If you've ever fantasized about owning a Portico furnishing, now's your chance to make it happen. Sure, even their pillowcases retail for $50.00 or more, but at the Portico Outlet, it's all about savings. The same high-end furnishings that can be found in the SoHo store just a short distance away can be had here at a lovely discount. So maybe that $2,500.00 armchair won't be seen for $50.00, but you can rest assured that you're not paying full price for anything!

Intermix... 125 Fifth Avenue (between 19th & 20th Streets) 212.533.9720 Could it be true? Could one of New York's trendiest stores offer designer clothing at affordable prices? You bet your Tocca dress it can! If you can manage to get to the back of the store without snatching up any of the brand-new merchandise in front, you can find lots of bargains on the back sale racks. How about a Kate Spade bag for $100.00? It's worth the splurge for such great savings!

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