Yorkville started its downward slide many years ago when manufacturers and retailers realized the power of branding.  It is now becoming a boring and sterile place where patrons try to buy status through brands recognized by all.

There were always retailers catering to the high end market, Hermes, Turnbull and Asser, Pierrre Deux, and others however these were small shops. Brands were not widely recognized at that time and products sold for somewhat less than they command now.

The reals strength in retail was the multiplicity of interesting shops selling generally high quality merchandise from around the world.

Arguably the most interesting iteration of Yorkville was the first one before retailing became the emphasis.