A|X Armani Exchange

Profile

Back in 1991—long before Target was designing for the masses—a man named Giorgio Armani embarked on a similar mission: to cater to young urbanites who have an eye for style and a wallet for Banana Republic. The result? Armani Exchange. Since then, the chain has hardly floundered with over 100 outposts across the globe. The four Manhattan stores are all remarkably similar, and carry the signature jeans and Tees as well as trendy tops, jackets, and sophisticated streetwear. With a visible signature “A|X” on almost every item, the logo factor is intense, and each season brings one or two pieces that you’ll want to keep in your closet for a while. — Caroline Callahan