Despite the obvious tragic reminders across the street, and the cacophony of Millennium Hilton construction, the affectionately termed “C 21” still remains the leader in discount shopping, great finds and narrow, overcrowded corridors.
- Best Bets: Century 21 is known for its mid to high end designers ranging from Tocca and Tracy Reese to Marc Jacobs, Theory and Allan Schwartz. They also carry a large selection of European designers such as Dolce and Gabanna, Moschino and Missoni. They have an extensive lingerie collection including undergarments from Wacaol, Calvin Klein and Chantelle. Keep an eye out for clearance sales where Wacaol bras can go as low as $8.00. Interestingly, the juniors department also has some fun finds like racks of modestly priced Free People and fun t’s for the gym with slogans such as “hangin’ with my peeps” adorned with very cute little yellow chicks.
- Beware: Returns policies can be a nightmare. Don’t remove tags and keep all receipts. Also, the best finds aren’talways where you’d think they’d be. For example, the dress department has slim pickings but if you rifle through the women’s section, you’ll often find dresses amongst a specific designer rack. I recently found a long, black Theory dress for $80.00. Not in dresses, on the Theory rack. The same goes for active wear. The best yoga and gym pants, such as So Low and Bejeweled, are not in active wear on the 2nd floor. Instead, head to the 3rd floor and poke around.
- Don’t Bother: Looking at chachkas and accessories on the 1st floor. True, there are some decent bag grabs, such as Kate Spade and Un Appreis De Chien, but save the handbag for the haul to Woodbury Commons; leave the tourist trap 1st floor and head upstairs instead. And if you’re looking for shoes, take the 1 train to 18th Street and hit Loehmann’s instead; Century’s shoe department is packed, and not with great finds. An occasional odd shoe on the “last pair” wall may entice a periodic walkthrough.
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Word on the Loehmann’s for shoes! I happily purchased 4 pairs for $80, and cute, cute, CUTE!!!!!