Philadelphia is known as a historic and culturally diverse city, and its stores reflect this beautifully with a vast array of unique Philadelphia shops and boutiques that can be found next to mainstream chains. Just a quick peek at the busiest shopping districts makes it clear there are plenty of options for fashionistas and bargain hunters alike.

For those who want to flaunt the biggest brands as they strut through the streets, the Shops at Liberty Place mall is a great place to start. Well-known stores like H&M, Godiva's Chocolates, and Nine West are all located in this bustling shopping center.

Shoppers who want something a bit more couture will find plenty to drool over on Walnut Street. The Shops at Bellevue has stores by top designers Nicole Miller and Ralph Lauren. Further down the street are stores catering to those who like the finer things in life. These include Coach, Tiffany, and Burberry, where shoppers can find everything from clothes to fine jewelry and designer handbags.

Philadelphia shopping isn't limited to well-known brands and chain stores. Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Liberty Place are small boutiques and indie shops with selections for those who like to think outside the box. Vagabond, for instance, offers an eclectic array of fashions with items that range from authentic vintage clothing to leather handbags. Arcadia boutique is also a favorite. It boasts a broad selection of everything from baby wear to elegant attire and daily wear for adults. It also offers environmentally friendly options and clothing by up-and-coming local designers.

For an all-in-one shopping solution, shoppers can browse through any mall to find a variety of Philadelphia shops. For example, just a few minutes away from the downtown area is Franklin Mills Mall, which boasts over 200 stores that together accommodate people of all ages and budgets.