Profile

The envy of every no-frills retailer that's sought to make its name synonymous with cheap-chic fashion, Target has come a long way in the past several years with some high-profile designers and savvy PR. Isaac Mizrahi for Target bouclé jackets are available in navy or wheat, and Liz Lange for Target offers stretch-twill capris in a range of colors.

Key Departments

Furniture & Accessories

Target collaborates with such designers as Michael Graves and Isaac Mizrahi to create handsome but extremely affordable home accessories—clocks, knives, small appliances—but it has furniture, too.

Toys

With an additional location in Brooklyn, Target is more accessible to New Yorkers than ever before, but the Website still may be a better way to go: Toys are organized down to subcategories, like “Dolls and Accessories” and “Outdoor Play.” Look for the VideoNow Personal Video System, Bratz Dolls, and the learning toy LeapFrog Leapster.

Shoes: Women

While we know Target may not be your first choice for footwear, it is economical—and to our surprise, the cheap-chic mecca even has some stylish shoes.

Registry

There are plenty of bargains at this housewares emporium. You'll find everything from folding bookcases to kitschy toasters to tea kettles. Guests can access your registry online.