As the holiday windows are unveiled on Fifth Avenue and the markets at Bryant Park and Union Square open for the season, New York City transforms into a global shopping destination. This November, as you plan your holiday gifting, why not celebrate the city itself by focusing on luxury brands that were born right here?
New York is the hometown of some of the most iconic names in fashion and jewelry. Here is our guide to 7 homegrown luxury brands to shop this holiday season.
1. Tiffany & Co.
Founded: 1837, Lower Manhattan
The little blue box is a global symbol of luxury. Born as a “stationery and fancy goods emporium,” Tiffany & Co. defined American jewelry. A trip to “The Landmark” flagship store on Fifth Avenue, reopened in 2023, is a holiday pilgrimage in itself.
2. Cartier (New York)
Founded: 1847, Paris (NYC history begins 1909)
Wait, isn’t Cartier French? Yes, but its New York story is so iconic it functions as a brand in itself. The NYC flagship at 653 Fifth Avenue is the historic “Cartier Mansion,” acquired by Pierre Cartier in 1917. This is the birthplace of timeless NYC-inspired designs, including the “Love” bracelet (1969) and the “Juste un Clou” (1971).
3. Ralph Lauren
Founded: 1967, The Bronx
No one has defined the American “aspirational” lifestyle better than Ralph Lauren. From a single collection of ties, he built a global empire based on the aesthetics of Ivy League prep, Western Americana, and aristocratic elegance. The Rhinelander Mansion at 867 Madison Avenue is his flagship store and a must-visit.
4. Calvin Klein
Founded: 1968, Manhattan
If Ralph Lauren is aspirational, Calvin Klein is provocative. His minimalist, often controversial, advertising and sleek designs defined ’90s cool. The “CK” logo remains a powerful symbol of New York’s signature edgy-yet-sophisticated style.
5. Proenza Schouler
Founded: 2002, Manhattan
Named after their mothers’ maiden names, Parsons graduates Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez are darlings of the modern fashion world. Their brand is known for its craftsmanship, custom-developed textiles, and a cool, downtown “It Girl” aesthetic, cemented by their iconic PS1 satchel.
6. The Row
Founded: 2006, Manhattan
Founded by Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen, The Row has become the global standard for “quiet luxury.” With a focus on exquisite tailoring, sumptuous fabrics, and perfect minimalism, the brand is for those who prize quality over logos. Their flagship store on East 71st Street feels more like a serene art gallery than a boutique.
7. Jacob & Co.
Founded: 1986, Manhattan
From a small booth in NYC’s Diamond District, Jacob Arabo built an empire. Jacob & Co. is the absolute opposite of quiet luxury. It’s the jeweler and watchmaker of choice for hip-hop royalty, NBA stars, and the global elite, known for its wildly complicated, diamond-encrusted timepieces that are pure New York bravado.
