Find unique presents and designer labels in shopping paradise - the Big Apple.

As the shopping capitals of the world become shrines to mass-market international chain-stores, the chance of finding a unique, locally-sourced memento on your travels is becoming increasingly rare. But, with a little planning and some expert guidance, it is still possible to unearth fabulous items.

If you're organising a trip to New York, it's a great opportunity to tick some presents off your Christmas shopping list. Whether you're looking for the best outlets to buy top labels at bargain prices or boutiques selling local art, our guide lets you know where to head for some real retail therapy.

SEASONED SHOPPER

Ask any seasoned shopper where they get their regular fix and Manhattan is bound to be top of the list. A glistening, bustling shrine to consumerism, the Big Apple offers everything from glossy department stores to bohemian flea markets, and for visitors there is no better time to take advantage of the weak dollar.

Tiffany & Co is a must-visit for gift seekers, even those on a budget. Silver trinkets and other home accessories leave the store exquisitely wrapped in signature blue, beribboned boxes, sure to thrill any lucky lady on Christmas morning.

Just a hop and a skip down Fifth Avenue lies Takashimaya, a Japanese gift emporium filled with exquisite trinkets. Displayed to perfection is deluxe silk bedlinen, quirky accessories for the Zen garden and delicate filigree jewellery.

New York's museums are a great hunting ground for uniquely original gifts. Head for the Museum of Arts and Design, where the store sells a wide variety of design-led artefacts and traditional American folk and craft pieces. Another worthwhile stop on your shopping tour is the Museum of Modern Art's (MoMA) Design & Bookstore, which has a great selection of affordable gifts.

DOMESTIC GODDESS

Domestic goddesses will find themselves drooling over the displays at Williams Sonoma and the Broadway Panhandler, both perfect for sourcing Martha Stewart-style baking accessories and chic cookware that you can't find at home, while Dean and Deluca's world-famous nibbles make ideal stocking fillers.

If you have a day to dedicate to your mission, head out of the city to Woodbury Common outlet village, about one hour's drive north of Manhattan. Gray Line New York runs excursions there from Port Authority, 42nd Street & Eighth Avenue, or ask your concierge about other options.

The world's largest collection of outlets - over 220 - in one location, this is shopping heaven. Look out for US labels such as Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Diane von Furstenberg, alongside Gap, Banana Republic and outlet stores for Saks and Barneys. Check out Frette or Pratesi for luxury Italian bedlinen and Williams Sonoma, Crate & Barrel or Ralph Lauren for excellent American homeware.

Read more about New York holidays or USA holidays

Shop the world - our guide to the shopping the capitals of the world

Whether you are looking for the best outlets to buy top labels at bargain prices, or artisan boutiques selling local art, our guide to shopping the world shows you where to head for some real retail therapy: Florence