Best Designer Shopping Streets in the World

Designer boutique streets can be found all over the world, with bright lights and glitzy window dressings to draw in the rich and famous. Most major cities will have at least one of these streets to peruse, with jewellery, fashion and even cars on sale within them. Wherever you are in the world, the following streets have the reputation as some of the very best places to shop designer trends.

Fifth Avenue

In the heart of Manhattan, New York, Fifth Avenue is the haunt of many celebrities and fashionistas hunting for the latest designer items. It’s got it all, from Saks to Gucci and even Cartier for those seeking something a little different. If you choose to visit this street, then you must keep your autograph book to hand, as you may even bump into a Kardashian or other famous socialite.

Most people traverse this street in flat shoes, as it’s so long and it can take days to visit all its wondrous stores. Don’t rush from shop to shop on this street, take your time and enjoy each one.

Bond Street

If you’re looking for diamonds or a champagne-filled shopping trip, then you can do no better than Bond Street, London (UK). The hotels that sit in between the designer boutiques here are some of the most expensive in the world, but if you want to be close to the action, then you may need to splash out. You can buy antiques, homewares, technology and beauty treatments on Bond Street.

Luxury brands such as Chanel, De Beers, Louis Vuitton and Rolex call Bond Street home, making it a haven for those searching for designer jewellery for that special someone. This street has become so famous that it’s been extended, with New Bond Street and Old Bond Street making up the two parts.

Kurfürstendamm

This street in Berlin features some of the most famous designer shops that Germany has to offer. This is where many designers choose to have their flagship stores, including Prada and Burberry. You will even find stores for the likes of Tesla and Maserati, though be aware that there are extensive waiting lists for some products. Located in the heart of Berlin, it’s often known as Berlin’s answer to the Champs-Elysées. On this street, you will also find the huge designer department store, KaDeWe. This is the largest department store in Europe, and it has a dazzling designer jewellery section. If you’re planning to visit Berlin, then a stroll down Kurfürstendamm is a must. For those that are in the mood to explore, the side streets have plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Although Berlin has a reputation for being a centre for street and edgy styles, traditional designers still sell luxury goods on Kurfürstendamm. You won’t find any high-class attitudes here, as Berlin is generally an easy-going city without any assumptions; perfect for a relaxing break and shopping trip.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

For those that are looking to soak in history while they shop, Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the oldest shopping malls in the world. Milan has long since been known for boutique designers and luxury, but the Galleria takes it to another level. It links two landmarks, The Duomo and Teatro Alla Scala, but to shoppers and architecture lovers, the mall is a landmark in its own right.

With two Prada stores, a huge Versace store and other designer stores beneath the hand-carved edifices, this mall feels like you’re shopping in a different world. This mall is well known as a meeting place for socialites and regular people alike, sometimes being referred to as Milan’s drawing room.

There was some controversy over the malls dining offerings when McDonald’s sued the owners as they were not allowed to renew their lease; the only refusal of a lease the mall has ever made and a battle it won. Later that same year, Prada took the place of the fast food chain instead.

TsUM

This palatial department store can be found in a mid-century gothic building in Moscow. TsUM is the largest fashion department store in Eastern Europe, with entire floors dedicated to a single designer or brand. It’s no mean feat to be featured in this store; every aspiring fashion designer must go through a rigorous vetting process in which each of their items is judged for its suitability.

This store really has it all, from a champagne bar to a cigar room for those breaks in between purchases. There are more than 1,000 brands to explore, selling everything from men’s accessories to jewellery. Many people joke that the department store is never the same on two separate visits, as it’s renowned for the interior being refurbished constantly to make way for new brands.

For the rich and famous, they also offer a range of VIP services to enhance the experience even further. Personal shoppers, professional stylists and even cosmetic procedures can be requested by those with money to spend. A shopping trip at the TsUM is best enjoyed with champagne in hand!

Hong Kong Central

With the rent on stores in Hong Kong’s shopping district costing eye watering amounts, it’s easy to see why luxury designers are featured prominently. Skyscrapers surround you as you walk through the streets of Hong Kong Central; some can be seen from miles away in surrounding harbours. Armani, Bulgari and many other jewellers have enormous stores in this district, never compromising on square footage despite the high rates. However, Asian countries have very lax copyright laws, which leads to the number of fake designer goods. If you want to ensure you’re getting the real deal, only purchase from official sellers and stores. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

If you’re heading to one of these cities, check out our favourite designer shopping streets. With exquisite jewellery on offer in dozens of prominent stores, you’re sure to find something beautiful.