February means Valentine’s Day, and if you’re looking for a gift (or making up for a late one), New York City has myriad options for ways to please your sweetie, or someone dear to your heart. (Click here for Valentine's Day dining and activities in New York City.)
You might be wondering where to even begin looking for a great Valentine’s Day option. Start off by visiting Manhattan Mall, which features a newly stylized JCPenney and dozens of individual retailers to satisfy every gift-giver’s need, including Aeropostale, Express, Strawberry, Sunglass Hut, Toys“R”Us, Victoria’s Secret, and many others. 100 W. 33rd St. (Sixth Ave.), 212-465-0500; manhattanmallny.com
It’s hard to go wrong with jewelry during this special time of the year. Located in the “jewelry capital of the world,” PeachTree takes pride in their many unique and one-of-a-kind pieces made of platinum 14- & 18-karat gold. They carry many works made in Italy and from other places around the world, and their staff will assist in finding perfect pieces for everyday wear or for that special occasion. 580 Fifth Ave. (47th St.), 800-711-6380; pt5.com
Diamonds are forever, but what about fashion? Coterie offers the latest European designer clothing at up to 80% off original prices. For day, there is an excellent selection of suits in trouser and skirt styles; for evening, there are elegant cocktail suits and gowns. There are mink and leather coats, accessories, hats, bags, and more. Closed Sat. 1387 Sixth Ave. (56th St.), 212-245-2400
If your honey has a Y chromosome, and you’re looking to find fashionable clothing without burning a hole in your wallet, stop at one of Prato Men’s Wear Outlets three Manhattan locations. Their wide selection of European suits, leather jackets, slacks, ties, and other items, all at discounted prices, makes it the place for top-of-the-line men’s clothing at very reasonable prices. 1027 Sixth Ave. (38th St.), 212-629-4731; 492 Seventh Ave. (36th St.), 212-564-9863; 122 Nassau St., 212-349-4150; pratooutlets.com. For additional locations, call 888-GO-PRATO (467-7286).
A great last-minute Valentine’s Day gift idea is an appointment at a spa. Oriens Living offers everything from acupuncture and massage to holistic facials, yoga, nutrition programs, and more. Appointments required. 36 W. 44th St., Ste. 1212, 212-213-5785; oriensliving.com
Keep anyone up to date with the latest trends (at a fraction of the price) at Century 21 Department Store. They have over 15 departments of quality designer merchandise at 40-70% off retail, including European and American designer fashions for men, women and kids. There's something for everyone, including outerwear, handbags, European and domestic sportswear, lingerie and sleepwear, shoes, boots, and sneakers. There's also top-brand luggage, accessories, fragrances, gloves, wool scarves, hats, home decor, housewares, linens, and more. Locations downtown and on the Upper West Side; www.c21stores.com
If one-stop shopping is your M.O., then of course you have to head on over to Macy's and browse through their large selection of fashion items, the hottest new items, products for family and home, great sales, and more. Broadway at 34th St., 212-494-2922; www.macys.com
Visit M&M'S WORLD New York, a Times Square retail-entertainment destination dedicated to the colorful fun of M&M'S brand chocolate candies. Besides those tasty little candies, they also offer thousands of gifts and souvenirs. Stop in and see why they're so much more than candy! 48th St. & Broadway, 212-295-3850; www.mmsworld.com
Personalize a teddy bear, or any other stuffed animal, at the biggest Build-A-Bear Workshop store in the world, right here in midtown. Have furry fun creating your Valentine's own stuffed animal friend and personalizing it with hundreds of fashions and accessories. You'll make a stuffed animal and so much more: a new best friend and an unforgettable memory. 565 Fifth Ave. & 46th St., 212-871-7080; www.buildabear.com
