Giorgio Armani

Profile

This four-floor Madison Avenue behemoth is a veritable shrine to Italian style. With its dark wood floors, marble walls, and elegantly appointed staircases, shoppers might mistake the Giorgio Armani store for a museum of fashion—and they wouldn’t be far off the mark. The legendary designer has long inspired critical and popular raves; to see why, look no further than his impeccably tailored tuxes, glorious beaded evening dresses, and enough variations on the power suit to outfit an entire white-shoe law firm. Past the elegant, doorman-attended entryway, mannequins display the season’s most elegant looks, like smoking jackets and cocktail dresses. Climb to the fourth floor for the intimate formal wear collection, where jewel-toned, Oscar-worthy gowns and men’s evening wear can be considered while sipping a cool drink and lounging in dressing rooms larger than most studio apartments. Quirky accessories like silk clutches with tassels add a welcome punch of humor. And while Armani has sadly discontinued its bridal line, the twice-yearly made-to-order gown collection, Privé, offers every woman the chance to feel like a blushing bride. — Carolyn Murnick

For impeccably classic designs, Armani’s suits (from $2,400) and ties ($145–$395) are a best bet; his well-cut tuxedos run about $4,000.