The Uptown/Downtown Debate

The fashionistas of New York City often fall into two distinct categories, appropriately dubbed by residence: Uptown Chic vs. Downtown Chic. Walking around Soho and Tribeca today, I couldn't help noticing how severe this distinction manifests itself, and I felt strangely out of my neighborhood (as if you couldn't tell, I would have to categorize myself as "uptown" in style), despite my black boots and coat. For those mystified by this distinction, let me elucidate the ways:

Downtown:

• Colors: predominately black, touch of plaid


• Generic Look: skinny jeans, black booties, hip-slung bag (Chanel or Marc Jacobs), large scarf, motorcycle jacket, large sunglasses


• Celebrity Adherents: The Olsen Twins (who live downtown), Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, Kate Bosworth


• Armcandy of Choice: Stunning European males, gay best friends


• Primary Designers: Gucci, Thomas Wylde, under-the-radar designers, Marc Jacobs
  
• Techniques: Layering, messiness, focus on legs


• Jewelry: Silver/platinum, skulls

Uptown:

• Colors: white, khaki, pastels, black
  
• Generic Look: fitted jacket, pencil or A-line skirt, tall boots or peep-toe pumps, Hermes or Bottega Veneta bag, trench coat, Hermes scarf


• Celebrity Adherents: Victoria Beckham, Sarah Jessica Parker


• Armcandy of Choice: Billionaire next door


• Primary Designers: Chanel, Bottega Veneta, Fendi
  
• Techniques: Tucked-in blouses, belts, limited color palette (monochromatic or two shades), focus on arms and waist, fitted clothing


• Jewelry: Van Cleef and Arpels, Cartier, a big rock, gold