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While this discount fashion mecca has been prime shopping turf for thrifty celebs and bargain-hunting civilians since 1921, when the first store opened on Brooklyn's Bedford Avenue, shopping here can feel like looking for a prize decoder ring in a box of cereal: A certain amount of digging is involved. Expect a similar challenge when rummaging through the store's maze of designer clothes and accessories, although persistence is duly rewarded. Find deep discounts on designer accessories, like Kate Spade clutches, Kenneth Cole totes and Richard Tyler peep toe pumps; men's wear offerings resemble a socialite's bachelor closet, thanks to the silk Versace shirts, Marc Jacobs sportswear, and Michael Kors suiting. The sprawling juniors department is fully stocked with Juicy Couture terry warm-up suits; the work-wear for women section is marked by Tahari and Harve Benard suits and Armani sheaths, and sportswear includes a pool of Anne Klein and Ralph Lauren swimsuits. For prized designer pieces at clearance-rack prices, venture into Loehmann’s famous Back Room, where label-savvy women forage through crowded racks of Prada silk tees, Marc Jacobs chinos, and Cynthia Steffe cardigans, searching for the perfect find. Set your alarm clock and arrive early, especially on sale days, to avoid the clothes-happy throngs—and the heaps of garments that litter the aisles like so much fancy detritus by late afternoon. — Molly Noonan

Loehmann's Insiders Club rewards members with up to 20 percent off four times a year, based on prior purchases, and a 15 percent Happy Birthday discount.