Exotic soaps at Clyde's on Madison   (Photo: Jeremy Liebman)

• Clyde’s on Madison

  926 Madison Ave., 212-988-8508

  Clyde’s manages to be both high-end and unassuming. It’s stocked to the ceiling with pricey European and American cosmetics, skin-care products, and irresistible accessories displayed with all the retail romance of your corner drugstore—which somehow adds conviction to the selection. You’ll find Colgate next to brands like Decléor, Mustela, and Rigaud, and it’s one of the only outlets for the cult French sunblock Anthelios in 60 SPF. Refreshingly nonaggressive personal shoppers are available if you do need help telling your Restylane from your Retin-A.

From the 2006 Best of New York issue of New York Magazine