Nomad

I used to live around the corner from Nomad and would go at least once a month to check out the beautiful jewelry and fabric. I'm not as excited by the clothing since it always looks the same season after season. Maybe that's a good thing if you have a focused and consistent style, but sometimes I wish the buyers would expand their taste. Lately there have been more upscale labels like Nieves Lavi and Clu, but overall, much of what they sell can be found at Bloomingdales or other small boutiques. The home furnishings and jewelry are what bring me back, though. My husband bought me an amazing antique Berber necklace there, and I know I can always find something for my picky friends. Sign up for their mailing list and wait for their fabulous sales twice a year. more

Selling primarily Mexican imports at highly marked up prices, Nomad nonetheless offers a fun selection of colorful, unique items. Dia de los Muertos figurines, traditional Mexican charms and jewelry, reconstructed bags and accoutrements, and unusal toys can all be found here. From the offbeat gift to gorgeous jewelry to one-of-a-kind clothing, the selection is always changing here, and you're bound to find something you can't live without. more

Nomad has plenty of bright colors, whether you are looking for decorative housewares or clothing. Most of the house-oriented stuff is imported, specifically Mexican, and you can get Day of the Dead figurines, milagros, paper flowers, and dioramas. You can also, get funky baskets and candlesticks, glasses with loteria pictures on them, and very beautiful, very expensive, very funky clothing by Free People and other designers. Some nice jewelry too. Don't neglect the basement, which has slightly larger items like shelves and tiles. more