Fog In New York City: Amazing Pics

So I was scrolling through Zite, the news app, when I spotted my favourite subject: New York! These amazing pictures were shot of the fog this morning and are simply stunning.

It’s Winter time in New York, of course. Difficult for me to imagine, because in NZ it’s summer right now. But I would happily trade summer for winter if that meant I got New York xx

How To Get A Job In New York City

When you live in a city like New York, with so many people, it can be hard to stand out from the crowd. With over 8 million people, it’s also likely there will be tough competition for jobs. Here are some tips I have come up with for new arrivals in New York, or those that are considering the move.

1. Network
This is the most important and most efficient way to get yourself a job. When you move to a new city you may not have many contacts, if any. It’s important to use what you have and go from there. If you want to work in publishing and your cousin works in a publishing company, get to know her and get her to introduce you to her friends. Ask her to get your CV around, attend networking events, and keep mixing with different circles and getting your name out there.

2. Start a blog and get noticed.
In some industries this may be more relevant than others. But for example you want to work in fashion or do some kind of writing for a living then this is perfect. Starting a blog about something you are interested in and building up a fan base can be a great leaping pad. If you want to work in fashion, start up a blog about your fashion work or pieces, comment on and follow other blogs so that you can get your name on the net. Make sure that in your home page you include your goals and details so people know exactly what you are looking for. Blog regularly and be yourself, and who knows, your future employer might come across your blog!

3. Be active on social media accounts, but be careful.
Be active, but know how to keep the balance right. These days perspective employers are bound to check you up on the web; on accounts such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc. This means that you must make sure that everything you post you must be happy that your boss might see it too. It also means that being over active might send the wrong message. Such as you have no hobbies or other interests or that you are not focused and waste your time. However, that said, social media is a great way to generate traffic and publicity, and for people to notice you. Just make sure you get noticed for the right reasons!

4. Volunteer your time. Always remember no-one starts at the top. Successful people get there with a lot of hard work, dedication, and determination. When you move to a new city such as New York where you may not know anyone, you may find yourself at the bottom. But the good news is that there’s only one way from there and that is up! Volunteering your time when you can’t get work is a very good idea. Not only does it let you gain experience, it also tells employers that you are dedicated and hard working and that you are willing to give anything a go. It’s also likely that if you volunteer you may impress people in the right places and volunteering puts you in a great spot for networking.

5. Consult career agencies. When you feel that all hope is lost, you can always ask for help! You will find there are hundreds, maybe even thousands, in the same predicament as you and many people realise that and have made a business out of it. Career agencies may cost you, but they will definitely put you in the right place, set you up with contacts, give you advice and guidance , and help you through the job hunting process.

6. Join clubs and societies. Again, this is all about networking, but when you move to a big new city it’s also important you find friends and enjoy yourself. These friends will be able to support you and if you have supportive friends and something to look forward to, you will relieve a lot of stress and you will feel more comfortable to face whatever challenges you may come across.

7. Apply for jobs that you are overqualified for. 
This may sound dumb, but you could apply for a job you know you are likely to get, even if you think it is below you. This is a good way to get your foot in the door and once you get in there, you are more likely to get promoted or you could use this experience to network or find another job.

8. Consider an internship. This is more for people who are just staring out in their career and are young but also if you are moving for a career change. Even if your internship doesn’t generate a job, it is still a great experience to have, looks good on your CV and you will meet lots of people.

9. Start your own small business. 
Do you have a passion for something and a head for business? Even if you only do this to support you in your job search or to network, this is still a great idea. It also shows potential employers that you have motivation and innovation. It doesn’t matter how big or small your business is, just make sure it is a success. Plan it carefully. If you love beauty, start out by offering your services to your neighbours. If you are any good they will come back and may even recommend you to other people. Start small, and build it up carefully.

10. Don’t give up and take what you can! 
Sometimes you can’t afford to be fussy!

10 Amazing Pictures of New York

Never been to New York? Don’t worry, neither have I. Some of us can only dream  Until the unforeseeable future I am stuck in my small country town with New York nowhere in sight. So I thought I would allow my imagination to run wild by sharing some awesome pictures of my beloved New York I have discovered.

The Brooklyn Bridge is on full display, with the beautiful sun shinning brightly on it, and the water looks flat and stunning 

Although this photo has been edited, and this is not the original, I love the colours and the contrast in it, the sky and clouds are especially stunning.

This photo shows the bright lights, reflecting on the flat water, and the Brooklyn Bridge is shown again.

Here is the Statue of Liberty, with a very interesting cloud shape surrounding it. This is a photo which I love, and the light coming out from the cloud gives the photograph a nice contrast.

New York is a big city, there is no denying it, and in this picture you can really see just how huge and vast it is, it looks never ending and seems to stretch all the way out to the horizon.

Who knew such a vast, green empty space existed in the middle of the city? This is Central Park for you.

Again, here is another stunning picture of the Brooklyn Bridge with stunning colouring.

Bright lights in New York, what a view 

Is that the Empire State building I spy? New York by night is absolutely breath-taking. 

New York's Ultimate Candy Destination

As if we need another reason to love New York City…have you heard of Dylan’s Candy Bar? If you have never been, it should definitely be on your bucket list, unless you’re a diabetic…

Yes, that’s right, IT HAS MULTIPLE LEVELS!! Apparently, the owner (obviously somebody called Dylan, just guessing here) is Ralph Lauren’s son, the famous fashion designer (which you have hopefully heard of).

It is an extremely popular destination for tourists and of course, residents, because who wouldn’t want to pop in now and again if they lived near?

New York: Movie Hotspot

New York is the perfect destination in my opinion, and apparently, in many movie directors’ opinion too, when they chose to film their works in the Big Apple. And who could blame them? Here are some of the top movies that have graced the big screens with New York setting the scene.

1. 21 Jump Street

“Greed for the lack of a better word, is good.” This classic quote comes from the one and only 21 Jump Street, a very famous movie which debuted in 1987. This movie was based around two young under-achieving police officers who are sent undercover back to High School for a drug bust.

2. Ghostbusters

Need I say more? Manhattan has a few problems with ghosts, they’re hiding in New York Public Library and in Central Park. If you didn’t see this movie when you were younger or haven’t heard of it, where have you been?

3. The French Connection

Sounds like a fashion brand, but in this case it’s a movie that involves a high-speed car chase. It was released in 1971 starring Gene Hackman and directed by William Freidkin. It became famous for the chase around the city and through bustling, crowded neighbourhoods.

4. King Kong

Well, how on earth did they film such a movie way back in 1933?! The film’s legacy still continues nearly a century on. No need to explain what this is about. Who can forget King Kong banging his chest on top of the Empire State building? Or the moment of his tragic ending off the tower.

5. The Taxi Driver

Never heard of it? Neither have I. But I may have been living under a rock all my life because this movie tops a list of 100 Best New York Movies. What is it about? I had to do my research on this one. Apparently a Vietnam war veteran works as a night time taxi driver in New York City where he is faced with many dangers and obstacles and attempts to save a prostitute in the process. Sounds…interesting.

New York vs London: Final Outcome

New York vs London… It was always going to be hard to debate between my two favourite cities but there has to be a winner and we all know who that is going to be.

How do you distinguish them? They have as much in common as two twins. Both have around the same same population, both have the big towers and iconic buildings, both have the beautiful parks and tourist attractions, both have the famous airports and well, the list goes on. But we aren’t talking about similarities today, we are talking about what ultimately makes New York better.

1. Better weather


Of course, I have lived in neither city so I’m sure people can argue against this based on personal experience and opinion. But I’m just going to put it out there that I believe New York has better weather. I don’t know about you, but whenever I see England on the TV it always seems to be so dreary, dark and gloomy. I like to think that New York has a bit more colour and life, but hey, I could be wrong!

2. USA vs UK


We are still debating on the best city, but ultimately the city is within the country so that must come into account too. Everybody knows that the USA is the most powerful country in the world with an excellent economy and large population. I’m not trying to down grade the UK here because for a lot of people they would prefer the UK to the USA and the UK is still an excellent place to live. However, the UK lacks what the USA has. It doesn’t have quite as much charisma, charm and pull to be bluntly honest. America has widely been known as “the Country of Opportunity” and the stereotype that surrounds America has a place in everyone’s hearts. It’s got glamour, bright lights, and big cities. But then it’s also got the Grand Canyon, huge native reserves, Route 66 and we can’t forget Hollywood.

3. The landmarks

What’s so exciting about a big clock? Would you rather have your photo standing in front of the Statue of Liberty or a clock? OK, so that’s a little harsh because Big Ben is still pretty cool and iconic and London still has plenty of other landmarks. Like the London Eye. But then New York has the Empire of State building and it used to have the twin towers. Think about it, New York’s skyline does look a lot better than London’s.

4. The Bombing of 9/11


OK, so I know this is not a good thing at all and I wouldn’t wish it on any country. But think about it, New York got bombed because it was seen as a city of importance and fame, and because it was home to the iconic twin towers. They didn’t want to bomb London, they wanted to bomb New York. Surely this means they held New York higher than London. Well, they wanted to bomb it… But you know what I mean!

5. New vs. Ancient


Well, this should be Ancient vs. Very Ancient, because both cities are old, but London much more so than New York. That means London has more history and stories about it which may be nice for some people, but if you want a newer, more modern and vibrant city you would chose New York. This is the city that never sleeps.

6. Times Square and the City of Lights

Every city has lights. Of course they do. But do they have the lights like New York? Maybe Vegas does, but London? I think not. Imagine standing in Times Square at 10 o’clock at night. Would you get that feeling in any other city in the world?

7. Name and Fame

London is a nice word to say but does it have the same ring to it as New York does? Do you see people more often wearing NYC shirts or London ones? Let’s face it, New York is the more famous city, the more popular one. What words do you associate with New York? Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Broadway, Central Park, Wall Street, Statue of Liberty… The list goes on but I don’t think I could say the same for London. I think New York sounds more exciting and fresh anyway.

8. Fashion

Victoria Beckham is a fashion designer that is British and lives in London. Yet she travels all the way to New York every season to display her collections rather than her home city. That’s got to be a sign right? NYFW is more known than LFW. It sounds better, it looks better. I have always held New York more fashionable than London.

9. Culture

Has London ever been the culture capital? I’m not sure, but I doubt any city could match New York on this one. New York manages to be classy, glamorous, wealthy, interesting, exciting, and adventurous for people of every race, age, gender and personality. Diversity and personality are key words in this city.

10. Black cabs vs yellow ones

Well, it comes down to this. With these two cities, both great and powerful, it may be a hard decision for most. Do you like history or modernity? Do you prefer gloomy skies or clearer ones ? Are you after diversity or more inclined for routine? Do you like black cabs or do you like yellow ones?

New York: Trendsetting City

Who takes out the title of the world’s most fashionable city? New York, London, Paris and Milan are regarded as the “Big 4″ in the fashion industry. New York is a big player within fashion, fashion designers, and trends.

According to 2012 rankings these were the industry’s most influential cities:

1. London

2. New York

3. Milan

4. Paris


London took the top spot from New York in 2011and repeated this in 2012.
Each leading city is famous for something different and unique. Let’s look at Paris. Home to Coco Chanel. That’s got to boost the ratings. Paris has always had a history of art and design, and it has a number of famous fashion houses. Parisian designs are famed for being elegant, chic, and formal.
Both Milan and Paris have a standard of excellency in creativity and design.

Adding to the similarities between the two fashion powerhouses is the fact that both offer more elegance than practicality and both cities feature haute couture and high fashion shopping districts. Where Paris relies more heavily on haute couture, Milan fashion can focus more on ready to wear clothes as well as haute couture. Milanese fashion is seen as sophisticated and admired.

London fashion is undeniably known for being quirky and a showcase of old and new British fashion. Take Burberry for example. That’s a fashion brand that manages to mix old fashioned tailored designs like trench coats and give them a quirky, unique, fashionable appeal that feels so very English. Kate Middleton and the 2012 Olympics are seen as major boostings for London’s rankings.

But what about New York?

New York grew as a fashion powerhouse in the 20th century. Its unique blend of entertainment, business, culture, language, cuisine and lifestyle meant it made sense for it to take its place of dominance in the fashion world. New York has, and has seen, some very famous and well known designers walk it’s stylish streets. I’m not just talking about the twice a year occurrence of New York Fashion Week, but the designers New York can call its own.
Here are three highly regarded fashion designers born and bred from New York:


1. Marc Jacobs


Marc Jacobs, born April 9, 1963 is easily one of the most recognisable fashion designers in the world. However residing in Paris, it is sometimes forgotten that this fashion guru was actually born in New York and is American. He has over 200 retail stores in over 80 countries. He was also the creative director of French design house Louis Vuitton from 1997-2013.

2. Ralph Lauren


In 2012 Forbes estimated this fashion designer’s wealth at 6.5 billion dollars. This would make the 74 -year-old the 162nd richest person in the world! Not bad for somebody who started out selling ties to his classmates and was born in NYC to a house painter. Not only is he known for his clothing brand, Polo Ralph Lauren but also for a rather impressive collection of cars, some of which have been displayed in museums!


3. Calvin Klein



Calvin Klein founded the fashion house Calvin Klein Inc which is currently owned by Phillips-Van Heusen. The popular brand is headquartered in New York City. Calvin founded Calvin Klein Limited a coat shop in York Hotel, in 1968, with just $10,000. By 1971 Calvin had already made a cover debut on Vogue and added sportswear, classic blazers and lingerie to his women’s collection. The rest, as they say, is history.


New York Fashion Week:

Let’s face it, there’s no other Fashion Week like New York. It’s the week every fashion guru and fashion designer alike plans. It’s written on their calendar, they work towards it all season. This is the time to shine.  Some big designers decide to showcase their designs. Victoria Beckham, Alexander Wang, Marc Jacobs, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren are some of the designers that flock to New York.

Famous trends:

Every city is responsible for at least some fashion trends, and New York, being the powerful city is it, has had its fair share of fashion trends. Every fashion week brings new trends and styles. Prints, colours, flares, polka dots, baggy, tight, ripped. New York has seen it all. After this year’s fashion week these are some of the trends that evolved:

1. High Karate. Designs that may resemble karate kits, but are actually “stylish.”

2. Quirky. Designs that were fun and free.

3. Sunny. Yellow and orange hit the cat-walks.

4. Picnic prints. That old picnic rug in the cupboard? That print could be right on trend.

5. Crop tops. Time to show off that pancake flat stomach.


Fashion District:

You can go to New York just to shop. You could spend days just shopping. But, be warned, you may need a lot of money! New York is home to many huge fashion houses, just about any fashion house you can imagine has retailers in New York. The biggest fashion district in New York is the Garment District, in Manhattan. It is considered the centre for fashion manufacturing and design in the United States, and even the world.

So there you have it. New York is a fashionable city that has grown amongst the world’s finest. It has all the ingredients for a fashion powerhouse, and will only continue to compete amongst the best. If you love fashion, New York is the place to be :)