Contributed by Lindsay Shugerman, Catalogs.com Top 10 Guru

It’s sad but true.


Most women in New York City do not dress like the characters in “Sex in the City“. Mostly it’s because real women can’t afford a closet full of $800 shoes. Oh, if only we could. But even without the champagne budget price tags, fashion is still important part of most NYC women’s lives.

So the question is where to find the clothes and shoes your want, at prices that will still leave you enough to pay the rent. We want to help our sisters in the Big Apple in their search for stunning, affordable fashions, so here are our picks for the best women’s clothing stores in New York City.

Forever 21

It’s about the attitude, not the years

Forever 21 proves that there is something to be said for disposable clothes. No, I am not commenting negatively on their quality. Sure, it’s unlikely that the outfit you buy here will look as good in 20 years as a Chanel suit or Dior blouse. But that’s not what this store is about.

Head to Forever 21 for feel-good clothes that will look good and last long enough to go out of style. At that point, the low prices will make it easy to give them away and move on to a new look. And sometimes that’s exactly the kinds of clothes we need.

Anthropologie

Fun, flirty and feminine

Walking into Anthropologie is liking walking into an ideal closet. The fabrics are soft, the colors are flattering and the fit is right on the mark.

Although the clothes aren’t as inexpensive as Forever 21, the small jump in price gives you a more timeless look. That means the clothes you buy today will still look fashionable and fresh in a year or two.

Meg

Clothes for women with real bodies and real budgets

Located at 312 E. 9th street and on North 6th Street in Williamsburg, this boutique offers a unique combination of style and affordability. Add in great customer service and a line of clothing designed for real women (you know, the kind with hips and thighs and tushes…) and you have one of the best women’s clothing stores in New York City.

A.P.C.

French style without the Paris prices

One of the best women’s clothes shops in NYC doesn’t feel like New York at all. In fact, you might think you’ve wandered into a chic Paris boutique. The difference is that you can probably afford to add at least a few of their pieces to your wardrobe.

A.P.C. is all about building a wardrobe from the basics…sweaters, jackets, jeans, skirts, tops and more that allow you create multiple looks from a few pieces.

Necessary Clothing

The things you need to wear every day

Sometimes, it’s all about the basics. And that’s where Necessary Clothing comes in.

You’ll find the shorts, t’s, dresses, sweaters, shoes and accessories you need for everyday life here. How about colorful flats for UNDER $25? Dozens of blouses under $30? Dresses under $40? Yup, it’s all here!