A Day in the Life: I Had A Dream Part Ten "A Canadian Girl in the New York City"

So far I have been in New York City for a little over a week and it has been crazy! Among all the things I have had to finalize with my VISA, internship and housing, I am pooped! The hot, hazy weather here has definitely put me in a relaxed and reflective mood.

Here a few tips if you are fellow Canadian or non-American citizen and are looking to begin as exciting internship in the Big Apple!

1) Make lists!

I cannot emphasize this enough! Moving from your hometown to a new city can sometimes be a little overwhelming, which is why it is always important to stay super organized. Start with getting a notebook or piece of paper and begin to jot down any major important things that relate to what you need to be doing. It is always best to organize your list into categories i.e. housing, internship, etc.

2) Know the subway like the back of your hand!

If you are from a city or town that does not have a subway system or hell even if it dies have one, the New York subway system can be a little confusing. They are not only numbered subway lines but there are also lettered ones and because Manhattan is surrounded by so many boroughs, you have to make sure you are on the right one so you don't end up in a completely foreign part of the city! I suggest buying a subway map which is available at drug stores such as, Duane Reade and taking a day riding the subway to make sure you are familiar with where you need to be going.

3) You won't be using change on the subway!

Before riding the subway in New York City, you must purchase a MetroCard. You can get these at the kiosks inside the station. They are available for one time use or unlimited rides for a 30-day period. Be sure to get one of these as they are essential for getting around this stylish city!

4) It won't just be shopping bags you will be carrying!

If you will be living in NYC for the summer, as tempting as it may be to eat out every night, it is not always realistic so finding a grocery is key. New York tends to have a few smaller food markets and delis to buy food but if you are interested in buying a large number of groceries check out these places, Trader Joe's located at 138 East 14th Street, known for its amazing deals or Whole Foods Market located at 250 7th Avenue known, for its selection of organic foods. No matter what you are looking for, these places will each have you covered.

5) Have an adventure!

Most importantly remember to have fun! Interning in the Big Apple is a once in a lifetime exciting opportunity that you will definitely remember for the rest of your life. Make sure to take advantage of every opportunity that is given to you and make the most of such an exciting adventure!

Here's to you! Enjoy!

Amanda

LOU LOU Magazine turns the big 5!

NYC may have Fashion's Night Out, but Toronto has a fashion block party. To celebrate it's 5th anniversary, Canada's Shopping Expert, LOU LOU Magazine has a whole a list of fun, fashionable events. 

Kicking off in Toronto on September 23rd, 2009 there will be an exciting shopping block party taking place on Bloor Street's Banana Republic, Guess?, Town Shoes, Winners, BCBG Maxaria, Gap and Puma stores. Not to be outdone, Canada's favourite recessionista-friendly store, Joe Fresh will have a pop-up boutique in Yorkville's, Sassafraz.

Each of these participating stores will be offering some sort of discount whether it be a 25% off coupon at Banana Republic or a $10 Joe Fresh gift card after spending $50 at the pop-up shop! (Woo-hoo!)

That's not all to the fashionable soiree. Each store will also have a little something extra to add to your shopping adventure, whether it be LOU LOU's editor-in-chief's Claude Frambroise's take on fall trends or an acoustic performance by musician Kate Voegele.

If you won't be in Toronto to enjoy shopping affair (no need to fret!) the block party will be travelling to Montreal the very next day!

For more on this tres chic shopping block party, click here. 

Amanda

New York, New York It's a Helluva Town! Part Deux

What is a trip to New York City without a little shopping? Well, in my case a lot shopping. NYC is filled with oodles and oodles of places to shop 'til you drop. Uptown, Downtown, East Side, West Side, clothes are everywhere and I love it!

Some memorable places include a small store called, Taroo located in Murray Hill. The small white boutique has tons of colourful bohemian inspired pieces and exotic jewellery. Some items that I picked up there include, a bright pink peasant top with colourful embroidery and a silvery blue lightweight ruffled dress. Perfect for a summer afternoon catching a Broadway show or a lunch date.

A store that must be visited when in Manhattan has to be the Marc by Marc Jacobs Accessories store located on 385 Bleecker Street. The store that is no stranger to long line ups, bright colours and stylish sales associates is filled with affordable accessories all by Marc Jacobs. Last summer I got a purple quilted clutch and a gun metal quilted bag that was only $64. This year they had a colourful python clutch with a chain link handle that was ah-mazing for $74. It would great for a night on the town in a black blazer, hot heels and a mini skirt.

My favourite store to visit would have to be Nolita's Project 234. Carrying designers and brands such as, Yumi Kim and Plastic Island I felt welcomed by this small boutique through the warm inviting smell of pomegranate citrus and its surrounding positive energy. I was instantly taken away by the gorgeous prints of the beautiful Yumi Kim dresses. A piece that caught my eye was a purple floral silk t-shirt dress. It works perfect for day with a pair of jewelled gladiator sandals and delicate gold jewellery. It is lightweight, very comfortable and made me feel so pretty as I wore out of the store and down Bleecker Street. Another standout piece was a silk chiffon floral ruffled button-up. Worn by the store's friendly manager, this Yumi Kim design looks great with tailored shorts for a casual summer day or crisp white linen pants for work. I loved these pieces and the entire store. The music including No Doubt, Justin Timberlake and AHA's, Take on Me puts you in a relaxed, happy mood. The clothes are great for any fashionista who loves colour, print and a dash of sophistication. Project 234 located at 234 Mulberry Street is definitely a hot shopping spot to visit while in New York City!

Last but not least would have to be good 'ole H&M. I know, I know. Why go all the way to New York to shop at a store that is right here in Toronto? Well I have got to tell ya, the prices there are about $5 to $10 less than they are here and they have many different styles that are not available in Toronto. I snatched up a Chanel-inspired chain link scarf, white skinny jeans, a lightweight grey t-shirt, a red and white gingham button-up shirt (perfect for Canada Day) and studded sandals.

All in all New York City shopping was a great success. I came with a brand new summer wardrobe and a shot of some New York style!

Amanda

New York, New York: North America's Fashion Mecca

On Thursday morning, I have the privilege of visiting the city that never sleeps, New York City! Home to the black & white cookie, broadway and design studios such as, Marc Jacobs and Diane Von Furstenburg I will get the chance to visit the best shopping spots in Soho, Greenwich Village and the list goes on!

I am not the only one who gets to stroll down Fashion Avenue whilst wearing gladiator sandals and cool shades. You do too! As soon as I get back I will be posting all the details regarding shopping and fashion in NYC!

So stay tuned and come back here to read all about it!

Amanda