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New Orleans has long been home to some of the world's best restaurants, art galleries, and music venues, but over the past couple of years, the city has (somewhat surprisingly) become a prime shopping destination, too — if you know where to look.

Steer clear of Bourbon Street and leave the cheesy Mardi Gras beads and trinkets in the souvenir shops. Instead, head to the French Quarter's new crop of indie boutiques; the area's "old world" feel means these stores are just as jaw-droppingly beautiful on the outside as the local goods are within.

There you'll find every local vintage shopper's best-kept secret, Bambi DeVille, the best spot to shop affordable dresses and jewelry from the 1920s through the ‘50s. Just a few doors down is the hometown flagship for New Orleans native Stirling Barrett's cool sunglass brand, Krewe du Optic, where you can cool off with a cold brew in the shop's courtyard after picking up some handmade eyewear.

But the shopping doesn't end at the French Quarter. Don't leave before checking out the rest of the retail scene Crescent City has to offer, from the bohemian-inspired Stone Free in the Central Business District to accessories and homeware hotspot Neon Heart Uptown, and the trio of great stores all located right next to the new Ace Hotel. There's also a cluster of stores in the Lower Garden District that has something for both minimalist and maximalist shoppers.—Nia Porter

This story was originally published on September 6th, 2016. Additional reporting has been contributed by Ellen Kincaid.

For more on fashion and shopping in New Orleans, see our guide.