It's that time of year again, when we congratulate our favorite college and post-degree graduates and cheerfully send them off into the working world! Reward your graduate with a gift that prepares them for their new reality, either in terms of wardrobe or accessories, or for their new homes.
The Interview Suit
Tom Ford - 841 Madison Avenue
No two ways about it, this is investment dressing. But you will never look or feel more confident than in one of Ford's classic but contemporary suits.
Barneys New York - 660 Madison Avenue
Find the perfect blazer at a not-outrageous price, and team it with both daywear for the office and jeans for the weekend. You can get it all here.
Kenneth Cole - Multiple locations
Cole's website has an entire page for female grads, giving you a great idea of what you'll need to start your working life - but both men and women can find just about all the necessities in Cole's many stores.
J. Crew - Multiple locations
The dresses, skirts and jackets can go anywhere in this epitome of American style. Add the accessories, and then pick up something for the weekend!
Proper Pumps
Stuart Weitzman - Multiple locations
From pumps to wedges to flats to booties, you can be appropriately shod for just about any workplace here.
Century 21 - 22 Cortlandt Street - 1972 Broadway - 472 86th Street, Brooklyn
You never know what luxury brands you will find at Century 21, which is 90 percent of the fun. Don't just come here for shoes, but for designer apparel, fragrance, home goods and more. It's a legend for a reason!
Appropriate Accessories
Michael Kors - Multiple locations
When starting your career, you need good shoes, a great bag, a terrific tote, and a couple of other accessories to be polished and professional. Kors has them all.
Homeward Bound
TJ Maxx/Marshall's - Multiple locations
These sister stores are wonderful for finding that unusual objet d'art, a sign, a picture, glasses and more - at below the price you'd find them in a department store. You can't always predict what will be in stock, but you'll always walk out with something great!
Design Within Reach - 903 Broadway - 957 Third Avenue - 341 Columbus Avenue - 110 Greene Street
For grads of means, this is the headquarters for contemporary design. Have your home look clean and modern with one stop here.
IKEA - Multiple locations
Let's face it--today's grads more likely are on a tight budget. But they don't need to sacrifice style or functionality, even in New York's microscopic apartments. Come here with a friend and a truck, and outfit an entire home from sofas to dishes.
Congratulations, Good Luck and Happy Shopping!