GETTING AROUND...
BE COOL (SUBWAY RULE NO. 1)
During rush hour, when everyone fights to get on and you almost trip because a feisty granny shoves you from behind, don't snap. Just suck it up as her gnarled fists dig into your back. You don't want to be that jerk that was mean to the granny and you really don't want to raise the ire of an entire platform of already irate new yorkers. And when you do finally make it inside the car, crammed against a 300-pound man's pudge, don't get too worked up when his sweat drips onto your shirt. Just have your earphones on and be thankful that the music's drowning out his loud breathing.
SHOP LIKE YOU MEAN IT
There's no room in the aisles of trader Joe's for you to take 15 minutes deciding between grape Fruit leather and Fiberful Fruit leather. Standing around idly only makes you a target for shopping carts and baskets. Snatch what you want and head for the lines. Don't be intimidated by how long they are; they move fast. Just like your feet should be doing.
STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN
Forget the gym, forget Shape-ups — if you're taking a class on an upper floor of the Silver center or Waverly Building, you'll be getting all the exercise you need. Since the line for the elevators tends to spill out onto the street before classes, taking the stairs is often the only way to get to class on time. Bring shoes that are actually comfortable.
BREAKING THE BANK...
FLYING A (169 Spring St., Manhattan)
I remember stepping into this shop with my aunt when I was younger and picking up an uber-cool makeup bag. I left with the biggest smile on my face. This Soho shop has a semi-bohemian vibe to it, but it also mixes current threads into its store. They have a very diverse mix of clothing and some spectacular displays of accessories, including handbags and boots.
OAK NYC (28 Bond St., Manhattan)
This fashion mecca boasts brands from Alexander Wang to Helmut Lang and definitely satisfies your craving for designer goodies. At oak, you'll find a lot of basic blacks and neutrals, as well as their own line, which is filled with refined and simple pieces like layered overcoats. The Manhattan store has a very clean-cut feel while the Brooklyn store comes off as a mixture of factory and personal closet.
AMARCORD 252 (Lafayette St., Manhattan)
This colorful, neatly kept vintage fashion shop has tons of rare finds, from Halston dresses to Erickson Beamon necklaces. Don't forget to peruse their sales section and talk to the staff — they know their stuff!
