The Times reported earlier this week that nationwide sales of women’s clothes are “unusually bleak” this holiday season, thanks to the slowing economy and weak fashions. As with most everything else, we wondered whether this “ominous” sign for year-end retail revenue applied to those great American exceptionalists, New Yorkers. And so we put some questions to them — plus a couple of bargain-hunting Euros — as they shopped. —Kendall Herbst Lucinda

Do you feel it’s important to support the economy by shopping for gifts and for yourself?
Of course, that’s the main reason — totally selfless.

What do you wish someone would get you for the holidays?
Honestly? A Bugaboo.

Stephanie and Andrea

Sales of women’s clothes are down this season. Have you been buying less women’s clothing than usual?
Andrea: We don’t go shopping as much, but when we do, we spend a lot.

What do you most wish someone would give you?
Stephanie: This year is tough. I don’t need anything.

Orlando

What’s in your shopping bag right now?
Headphones, iPhone case, and a film set for the screen.

In general, are you trying to spend less this season?
If I like something, I buy. But to be honest, I haven’t liked much of what I’ve seen.

Lauren and Naomi

What’s in your shopping bags right now? Lauren: Ugg boots and clothes from Victoria’s Secret, because we don’t have one in London.

Do you feel it’s important to support the economy by shopping for gifts and for yourself?
Sure. But also for us it’s just so much cheaper than London.

What do you most wish someone would give you?
Victoria’s Secret and Juicy tracksuits.

Patrick

In general, are you trying to spend less this season?
I guess. I have a lot of student loans.

What’s the most extravagant gift you’ve bought or plan on buying?
I got my mom a vacuum.