I want to be a part of it, New York, New York.

Last weekend I spent time in the Big City, and it was uh-maze-ing. It is like every bone in my body knows it belongs there. I feel a sense of ease - a calmness that only the busy streets of Manhattan can evoke. It's a feeling of being home that is only otherwise felt during Christmas at mom and dads. It's magic, and that's only one of the many reasons it is the most wonderful city on earth. As good ol' Sinatra once said, if you can make it there, you'll make it anywhere, it's up to you, New York, New York.

Shopping in the city leaves nothing to be desired. You can find anything and everything within a 10-block radius. From designer flagship stores to small up-and-coming boutiques, I feel like I am in a menswear dreamworld and have the ability to create any outfit my little heart desires. The possibilities are endless and when my clients' satisfaction is on the line, I strive to curate outfits so unique there is no possibility of disappointment. 

One of the coolest stores I had a chance to check out was located in SoHo and is called Atrium. This shop is the epitome of stylish. The brands they carry are fashion forward without being pretentious and the clothing is wearable and can be styled for many different occasions, from work to weekend. 

The below image includes clothing's and accessories that can be found at Atrium.

Items above:

3.1 Phillip Lim classic harrington jacket
3.1 Phillip Lim short sleeved shirt
3x1 M3 light weight indigo selvedge denim
Giuseppe Zanotti Design 'London' high tops
Canada Goose toque
Mr. Black garment essentials
Parabellum bison leather card case
Thom Browne black round glasses

I love the above look because it is casual, stylish and perfect for fall & early winter weather. The Mr. Black denim spray, displayed in the photo, is great for your raw and selvedge denim - you just spray to freshen up rather than risking ruining them in the washing machine. The leather sneakers add a luxe yet sporty aspect to your look and the bomber jacket is not only stylish, it is warm. 

Eat

One of my favourite places to eat in the city is a Mexican restaurant called La Esquina. There are two locations, one in Manhattan and one in Brooklyn - my preference is the location in the Nolita/SoHo district rather than Brooklyn (both have the same menu) because I absolutely LOVE the vibe at the former. On top, it is a typical taco stand but if you are able to get a reservation (normally you have to either know someone or book a month in advance, on the day) you are able to have dinner in the the subterranean brasserie that is entered through the 'Employees Only' door, and let me tell you... it is incredible. It feels like a Mexican dungeon styled for a Vogue shoot, complete distressed stone walls, metal work and water dripping from the walls. You may even get to dine beside Courtney Love or John Mayer. Oh, and get the corn... it may just change your life (you'll thank me later).

La Esquina from the outside - taco stand area. 

La Esquina, subterranean dining area. 

Another one of my food favourites is a pizza joint in Williamsburg, Brooklyn called Roberta's. From the outside, it looks like a cinderblock (truly) but once you get inside, the vibe epitomizes Brooklyn-chic. It has a rustic, underground Bohemian feel with communal tables, a homegrown garden and an outdoor picnic table patio. Sip a beer out of a mason jar and order a pizza - the Roy Rogers is great and features a lovely mixture of tomato, proiris breeze, proscuitto cotta, green pepper, onion, egg, and chili. 

Cinderblock-chic exterior.

Explore

When space is scarce, you make the most of the little you have. The Highline Park is an old railway line that is elevated 30 feet above the streets of NYC and has been turned into a beautifully green, lush park space for people to congregate, walk and enjoy nature. Beginning in the Meatpacking District, near The Standard Hotel, and running for 1.45 miles, it is one of my favourite views of the city. The views of the Hudson river are gorgeous, the greenery is lush and the city, when lit up at night, looks like magic. 

People hanging out at the Highline. 

I also love exploring Central Park, visiting some of the large museums, MoMA and The Metropolitan Museum are my favourites, and wandering around the various neighbourhoods. If you want to check out unique buildings combined with awesome food and drink spots, check out East Village and the Lower East Side. 

Have you guys fallen in love with New York? What about another city? I want to hear from you... and I want to hear why your favourite city is your favourite city!

- Ensemble Style - Calgary