New York City Hotels?

I know I had a similar post up a few years ago, but this time it might actually be happening: me going to New York with one or two of my dearest friends. We need to decide where to stay though - any recommendations? We're definitely on a budget, but we want someplace that's clean and safe, obviously. We'll be there for four nights in November - main focus on the trip is shopping and eating! (Huge surprise to all my readers, I'm sure!)