How to shop Scottsdale Fashion Square

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To call the luxury behemoth that is Scottsdale Fashion Square “overwhelming” may be an understatement, to say the least. If you have ever set foot in this mall three things probably come to mind:

1. Wow, it’s huge.

2. It’s pretty!

3. Where do I even begin?!

Scottsdale Fashion Square

To be honest, there was a point where if I knew I was shopping for just a few things, I’d try and avoid Scottsdale Fashion Square. The potential for chaos frightened me. But once you know how to shop this mall, and how to shop it just right, it’s perfect. After all, no other mall in town houses luxury names like Barney’s, Neiman Marcus, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Burberry and a soon-to-open Prada, all under one roof.

If luxury shopping isn’t your thing, there are plenty of budget-friendly trendy shops too. Think: Forever 21, H&M, Francesca’s Collections, bebe, Ann Taylor and more.

Still a little intimidated? Don’t worry. Here’s your quick guide to be coming a Scottsdale Fashion Square shopping Pro.

1. Parking

I’ll be honest: Parking here can be aggressive. Especially during the holidays. And especially on weekends. But there are three fail-safe lots I can just about guarantee you’ll find a spot at.

First, try the underground parking lot on the East side of the mall, right under E4 where there’s a big X drawn. (The reason for the X is above-ground, this parking lot that sits across H&M and Modern Steak is total madness. But underneath the lot is totally brimming with spots.)

You can also try the lot underneath and on the opposite side of Barneys New York marked 1B and P3 for easy access to parking spots and all the shops in Tip 2, below.

2. High/Low shopping

The secret to any successful shopping mission is having a strategy in place. If you’re in a pinch for time and want to get the best high-low shopping in a two-hour visit or less, stick to the recently renovated East side of the mall.

Start upstairs and hit the Barney’s co-op for your luxury treats. Next door, you’ll find an awesome Forever 21 and an H&M. These are great stores for stocking up on budget-friendly wardrobe basics. For a cheap accessories thrill, load up at Charming Charlie’s, next door to H&M.

banana republic concept store scottsdale fashion square How to shop Scottsdale Fashion Square

Banana Republic's new concept store

On your way out, exit the mall downstairs. You’ll find a boutique-style Banana Republic unlike any other in the Valley with accessories that believe me, you won’t want to miss. Next door is the Valley’s first and only Ted Baker stocked with plenty of cute and trendy pieces. End your trip by hitting the Barneys shoe department because, well, is there any better way to end a shopping trip?

3. People watching

Modern Steak, Scottsdale Fashion Square

If you aren’t much of a shopper or all are shopped out, one thing you can always count on at Scottsdale Fashion Square is the people watching. But where are your best bets?

For cougars on the prowl and the trendy set, station yourself at Modern Steak. Tip: Order the truffle fries and some Champagne. It’s a magical combination. Trust.

Maybe you’re more of the “ladies who lunch” set; if so, you’ll be among your own at Fred’s (located in Barneys).

Beer lovers and the casual crew can be found at Yard House where there is a ridiculous amount of beer on tap.

And Happy Hour fanatics are all about Kona Grill and Z Tejas. The latter at which, they cut you off after just three margaritas. But hey, at least you’re already at the mall. Is there anything better than a good buzz followed by some shopping? I think not.

Are you a Scottsdale Fashion Square Pro? What are your tips for shopping this mall? Leave them below! I love comments