Generations of frugal Ivy League gents have flocked to J. Press for tweedy sport coats, button-down shirts, and colorful collegiate scarves. But the modest shop on 44th Street always seemed to live in the shadow of Brooks Brothers, which towered next door. Now J. Press has moved three blocks to a bright new 4,000-square-foot flagship store (380 Madison Ave., at 47th St.; 212-687-7642). The nattily attired, old-school clerks graciously help you navigate the dark-wood tables that display, for example, gingham pocket squares ($19), straw hats ($79), and leather-trimmed attaché cases ($180). Curmudgeons might prefer the dusty charm of the former location to the slick, halogen-bathed new space, but the clothes are still tasteful, affordable—you can get a three-button wool suit for $450—and, of course, preppy.
Priscilla of Boston’s traditional satin bridal gowns are now sold in a salon in the building that houses its design studio (264 W. 40th St., nr. Eighth Ave., second fl.; 212-997-3956). The boutique will stock the brand’s more contemporary bridal collections like Melissa Sweet and Platinum.