How to Shop: The New Burlington Mall

With its upscale new wing (and greater proximity to Boston), Burlington Mall is giving the Natick Collection a run for its money: Michael Kors, Lululemon, and Tourneau have all settled in here, with Burberry just opened. At the same time, it's still, well, a mall, which means a certain amount of strategizing is required if you want to enjoy headache-free shopping.

(Relatively) Easy Parking: The lot in front of Nordstrom is rarely packed and offers the easiest access to the new shops. There's almost always a spot in front of Legal Sea Foods.

Well-stocked Shelves: Nordstrom joined existing department stores Lord & Taylor, Macy's, and Sears when it opened at the mall in March. Burlington isn't the chain's largest outpost, but the scaled-down version of its famous shoe department boasts a solid lineup of moderately priced (Jessica Simpson) and high-end (Barbara Bui) brands. In the clothing section, the merchandising can be confusing. Don't give up if you're hunting for Michael Stars and don't see it near Three Dots and James Perse; it's just on the other side of the department.

Flattering Mirrors: Look for the velvety black changing area upstairs at Nordstrom; it's equipped with a plush lounge—and very skinny mirrors. Also wickedly flattering are the fitting rooms at swimwear specialist Everything But Water. The lighting at nearby Lululemon, on the other hand, doesn't do any favors.

Youth Appeal: Offerings for kids and juniors include a massive new Delia's and an Abercrombie triple threat (the namesake, Ruehl, and Hollister). Back at Nordstrom, the teen-targeted clothing department carries a well-edited selection of pieces so fashionable and reasonably priced—funky carryalls for $45, comfy knit dresses for $35—adults will be tempted to get in on the action (this one did).

Avoidable Vendors: When venturing outside the Nordstrom wing to Michael Kors, Burberry, and a mammoth Victoria's Secret, beware of aggressive vendors hawking everything from hair straighteners to European sea salts. Just ignore them and keep your eye on the prize: those hot little Michael by Michael Kors ankle boots.

75 Middlesex Tpke., Burlington, 781-272-8667, burlington-mall.com.