NYC Shopping

Recently I spent 3 days in NY for a business conference. Being the hardcore shopper that I am, I definately found time for some shopping. This wasn't my first trip to NY so I feel a little like a native when I am there. I know exactly where I want to go and what I want and don't want to see. I no longer need to see Rockefeller Center, NBC, Radio City Music Hall, etc. What I do want to see is lots of stores. As such, I have a small little rant. Tourist in Manhattan can be so annoying. They travel in packs, move at their own pace (slow) and stop right in the middle of a walk way. It does not bode well for natives or hard core shoppers. There is a lot to see and typically not much time.
Imagine all the top designers in one place. That place is Sak's 5th Ave. While the people working there are not particularly helpful, you will find whatever designer or item you might be looking for all under one roof. I saw Jimmy Choo shoes, Nanette Lepore dresses, and Prada handbags. It was like dying and going to heaven. Of course, reality sank in real quick when I look at the price tags. As my mother always said, if you must ask the price, you can't afford it.
Another great place to check out if the Tiffany's on 5th Ave. The store covers several floors and the jewelry is broken out by silver, wedding, childrens, etc. It makes the Seattle store look like a boutique. I think that it is the largest one that I have been in and I have been into Tiffany's in several cities.
For practical shopping and great bargains there are two stores that have very fashionable items at very reasonable prices, H M and Zara. They each have a couple of locations throughout midtown. H M has every type of item. I bought a great basic t-shirt for $5.90. It was a thick soft cotton. The only issue with their clothes is that you need to try things on as the items run small. Zara is very similar. There are a couple of things that I like about Zara more than H M, first there is a Zara in Vancouver, BC. I think the closest H M is in California. The second thing about Zara is that they have a classic line which includes items that are suitable for work. The prices are reasonable however their items also run small.
Just an item to note, is that there are several Gap and Banana Republic located in Midtown. You would think that they are the Starbucks of shopping.
I didn't get a chance to venture into some of the trendy neighborhoods but that just gives me a reason to go back at a later date.