Downtown Is Out—Uptown Is In: Join Me for a Shopping Trip at Kallmeyer, Khaite, and Toteme

      Welcome to Let's Get a Room, a series in which editor Eliza Huber ventures into the dressing room to try on items from popular retailers, trending products, and fresh collections. Consider this column a comprehensive guide to the pieces truly worth purchasing versus those that might have seemed better online—no need for returns. As a former downtown resident who has transitioned to the uptown area, I bring a wealth of shopping experience from both Manhattan neighborhoods, including the bustling shops of SoHo and the more understated luxury boutiques of the Upper East Side. SoHo has its advantages—like trendy restaurants perfect for people-watching, wider retail choices (including budget-friendly ones), and ample transportation options—but in my knowledgeable and seasoned view, the uptown shopping atmosphere is significantly better than its downtown counterpart. Disagree? Well, that’s too bad.

      In recent years, a 10-block stretch on Madison Avenue has become a go-to for high-end shoppers, ranging from 69th to 79th on the Upper East Side. Just a short walk from the park between the Frick and the Met, there are three stores that make a trip uptown worthwhile. The area is free from crowds, long lines, or TikTok users stopping to inquire about your outfit. It’s serene and sophisticated, now boasting some of the fashion world’s beloved brands, like Toteme, Khaite, and the recently opened Kallmeyer, Daniella Kallmeyer's upscale line that launched its second NYC store at 1022 Madison Avenue on May 10.

      After visiting all three locations on a rainy Friday afternoon, I can confidently say that a perfect shopping experience awaits anyone who follows in my footsteps. (The Row, Ralph Lauren, and The RealReal are also situated between 69th and 79th, making excellent additional stops.) My other suggestions? Enjoy lunch at JG Melon, swing by Gagosian, and wrap up your evening by grabbing a seat at the bar at Bemelmans.

      Before your next uptown visit, scroll down to discover what I tried on at all three stores, including a stunning croc-embossed coat, skirt, and bag ensemble at Toteme, and the exact leather blazer from Kallmeyer that Jennifer Lawrence was just seen wearing.

      The Stockholm-based brand Toteme debuted its first NYC boutique on Mercer Street in SoHo in July 2022, amid a wave of trendy stores opening in that block (including Alaïa, Staud, Simkhai, Kirna Zabête, Proenza Schouler, and Khaite, among others). Clearly, there's a demand for clean, modern, and chic clothing, shoes, and handbags, as Toteme subsequently opened a second uptown shop on Madison Avenue during New York Fashion Week in September 2024. The 1600-square-foot location at the 69th and Madison intersection is smaller than the SoHo store, but its design feels more like a gallery than a traditional retail space. The Upper East Side shop was created in collaboration with the Swedish design studio Halleroed, drawing inspiration from surrealism. A sculptural red staircase occupies much of the first floor, leading to a second level focused on product display. At the staircase's base stands "Half Girl," a polished bronze sculpture by contemporary Swedish artist Anders Krisár, celebrating the brand's heritage.

      Visit Toteme at 829 Madison Avenue. I can't be the only one who gets excited to try on a runway look the moment it debuts. Sure, it appears stunning on the model, who is set against a meticulously designed show space that highlights every outfit perfectly, but how will it look on me? I've been eagerly waiting to try on this particular look ever since Toteme showcased its S/S 25 collection in New York last September. I was particularly attracted to the croc-embossed coat, and upon discovering that a matching skirt and bag existed, I knew I had to try them all on together. Excessive? Never. All three pieces exceeded my high expectations, though the fitted tank top I wore beneath the coat was the true highlight. Its tailored design could easily become my new favorite sleeveless top for summer.

      Shop the look:

      Toteme

      Croco-Embossed Coat Black

      Toteme

      Compact Knit Tank White

      Toteme

      Croco-Embossed Skirt Black

      Toteme

      T-Lock Croc-Embossed Leather Clutch Bag

      Sometimes, just one item can elevate an entire outfit. After all, that's the purpose of dresses. This particular dress is especially striking; with its draping and sheer fabric, the design makes a significant impact. While accessories can enhance the look, I've found they aren't necessary. Allow this luxurious, ethereal dress to shine on its own. The only addition I made was a pair of slingback pumps that hold your feet in place superbly. No slipping means no blisters—remember that