Exploring Steps Off Madison

Anyone who has traveled the world can recognize that Madison Avenue is a true gem among centers of world-class shopping. Yes, Rodeo Drive may have palm trees and Oak Street may be considered the Magnificent Mile but no other city has the style, fashion and assortment of Madison Avenue.

Among the unique features of the Avenue are the hidden and diverse boutiques that are just steps off of Madison. For example, Marni is steps off Madison at 67th Street, Charlotte Olympia is steps off of Madison at 65th Street and Canturi Jewels is steps off of Madison at 66th Street.

Preen at Fivestory

As part of our exploration of the  boutiques that are just off Madison, we found some unexpected hidden gems. One of Madison Avenue's newest additions, Fivestory (69th Street) is filled with items that are unique for both their style, variety and design. Tucked in every corner of the store you can find a covetable item from the Preen pre-fall collection Edie Parker clutches, there is something to inspire anyone who loves fashion.

Over at Marina Rinaldi (69th Street) we were surprised to find a wide assortment of color used in the newest fall collection-- reds, hot pinks, royal blues. Our favorite item, however, is a spruce green two piece gown with tulle and sequined overlay ($1670).

Qiviuk Adeli Cardigan

With one touch, you will fall in love with Qiviuk (58th Street), which is comprised of the downy fibers of Musk Ox. Qiviuk, which is pronounced Kiv-ee-uk, is a favorite among icons such as Queen Elizabeth II, Sarah Jessica Parker and The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. A favorite item of ours is the Adeli Cardigan ($1350 with fur, $950 without). Once you try it on you will not want to love another cold day without it.

Ovando

The floral designs found at Ovando (65th Street) are so much more than arrangements. Some might say they are works of modern art. Floral designer and event producer Sandra de Ovando is able to manipulate flowers in a way that feels more like sculpture than botanicals. Clients include, Hermes, The US Open Tennis Association, Donna Karan, Four Seasons, Saks Fifth Avenue, and of course, you!

In addition to creating wonderful events and arrangements, Ovando always has an interesting window display. It's often worth the extra few steps to peek on on what's brewing.

Charlotte Olympia

Now we should look south, towards your toes, of course. We can't understate how much we love Charlotte Olympia (65th Street). The boutique just opened this Spring but is already a neighborhood classic. The 750-square-foot space is decked out with suspended lights and trademark spiderwebs.

To mark the London-based designer's first store state-side, she created the Charlotte Olympia Priscilla Stars and Stripes heel. Could you imagine a more patriotic (and stylish) shoe?

Robert Clergerie

Speaking of shoes, uptown favorite Robert Clergerie (62th Street) is the apex of French style on Madison. The shoes are both fashionable and comfortable. (Imagine that!) For Fall, the store is stocked with fashionable chunky heels and lace-up flats. A favorite of ours is a black and white Rolo flat that resembles a bowling shoe.

Madison Avenue and the stores in its vicinity are not only about feasts for your eyes but there are also wonderful sweets for your mouth. K Chocolatier by Diane Kron (69th Street) us a favorite among New Yorkers and travelers alike. The truffles and liquors are in-'K'-redible.

Reinstein/Ross

If you're looking for a literal gem, Reinstein/Ross (73rd Street) carries handmade gold jewelry that's both modern and classic. If you don't see exactly what you like within their extensive inventory, the boutique will happily collaborate with you to make an entirely custom piece.

As you can see, the boutiques that are just steps off Madison are as interesting and varied as the ones directly on the Avenue. For your shopping ease, we compiled a list of side street stores that should not be missed.

Steps Off Madison Boutiques

Chocolate K Chocolatier	19 East 69 Street	212-861-2111
Teuscher	25 East 61st Street	212-751-8482
Consignment
Roundabout	31 East 72nd Street	646-755-8009
Eyewear
Page & Smith Opticians	42 East 59th Street	212-759-8560
Fashion
45rpm	17 East 71 Street	212-737-5545
Bottega Veneta Men	23 East 67 Street	212-879-5782
Delle Celle	17 East 67th Street	212-744-5820
Fivestory	18 East 69 Street	212-288-1338
Marina Rinaldi	13 East 69 Street	212-734-4333
Marni	21 East 67 Street	212-257-6907
Perez Sanz	20 East 69 Street	212-249-5151
Prada	45 East 57th Street	212-308-2332
Qiviuk Boutique	40 East 58 Street	212-826-3388
Florists
L'Olivier Floral Atelier	19 East 76th Street	212-774-7676
Ovando	19 East 65 Street	212-924-7848
Handbags
Anya Hindmarch	29 East 60th Street	212-750-3974
Home
Christian Liaigre	34 East 61 Street	212-201-2338
Design Within Reach	27 East 62nd Street	212-888-4539
de Vera	26 East 81 Street	212-288-2288
Jewelry & Watches
Canturi Jewels	42 East 66 Street	212-879-8800
F.D.	21 East 65 Street	212-772-2440
Eve Jewelry	17 East 70 Street	212-288-9011
Reinstein/Ross	29 East 73rd Street	212-772-1901
Stephen P. Kahan Ltd.	25 East 61st Street	212-750-3456
Yarn
String New York	33 East 65 Street	212-288-9276
Shoes
Charlotte Olympia	22 East 65 Street	212-744-1842
Pretty Ballerinas	27 East 67 Street	212-744-4445
RM Williams	46 East 59th Street	212-308-1808
Robert Clergerie	19 East 62 Street	212-207-8600