The best shops in the Bronx

This budget-friendly women’s clothing ($10–$30) and accessories ($5–$32) chain has finally made its New York debut. Outfitted with touches of pink and gray, the 5,000-square-foot space boasts large fitting rooms and a well-lit runway in the center of the store where customers can strut their stuff. You’ll want to hit the catwalk modeling dolman-sleeve, Aztec-print maxidresses ($24), knit ponchos ($22) and knee-high motorcycle-style boots ($28). We especially love that all styles come in plus-sizes (up to size 24).

As the great-grandsons of Lena Bryant (founder of the ubiquitous plus-size chain Lane Bryant), owners Nick and Michael Kaplan had some big shoes to fill when he set out to create “an H&M or a Forever 21 for plus sizes.” The stores stock the usual array of trendy gear that's typical of fast-fashion chains: cheetah-print T-shirts ($20), crochet cardigans ($20) and knit scarves with sequins ($9), and bangles, rings and necklaces ($8–$20) made to fit larger fingers and wrists. There are also plenty of bargain threads (starting at size 12) for those with more grown-up tastes.

Mallrats rejoice: When the Mall at Bay Plaza opens in the Bronx in August 2014, it'll be the first enclosed anchored fashion mall in New York City in almost 40 years. The state-of-the-art mall is anchored by JCPenney and Macy's, with more tenants being announced soon.

Thrift sifters, get ready to make this throwback chain your playground. From clothing to household goods and electronics to wedding dresses, this spot has something for everyone. Most items will run you a buck and up, but hot-ticket items like record players and antique furniture might cost you a bit more than a Washington. Whether you’re hunting for unique art for your walls or past-season threads, we guarantee you won’t walk out empty-handed.

Fashionistas of all shapes and sizes, march into this style hub for unique dresses, accessories and more. The walls are lined with jacquard frocks, blouses decked out in studs, knee-high boots and jewels. Best part? The prices ($10–$50) can’t be beat.