If someone tells you that they are a New Yorker, you automatically know that the person is probably far more sophisticated than you. The question is why are New Yorkers so much more sophisticated than the rest of us? There is no single reason, but, rather a combination of factors that play into image of New Yorkers as the ultimate in sophistication.
First is the simple of expense of living in New York. It isn’t cheap, and, therefore, the overwhelming majority of Manhattenites have at least a bachelor’s degree (if not higher college degrees such as Masters or Doctorate.) Therefore, more of them have much higher salaries than the typical high school graduate with little to no further education or specialized training.
Second is the fact that New York is a melting pot of people, and, New Yorkers have neighbors, friends and co-workers from every corner of the United States and the globe. This also means they tend to be far more open-minded and carry far fewer prejudices than their counter-parts in other areas of the world.
Third, New York is ranked world-wide for culture in music and other arts. Enough said.
Celebrities and model sightings (and sometimes interactions) are simply matter of fact in New York. New Yorkers are too busy with their own lives to worry about getting an autograph or photo with a celebrity. In fact, 9 times out of 10, the New Yorker will be annoyed that the celebrity is tying up traffic or taking attention away from topics or people that actually need the attention. Bottom line. It’s no big deal. That’s why so many celebrities live in New York. They can walk down the street and not have a soul notice them or bother them.
Fifth. Clothing. New Yorkers not only have access to some of the best stores in the world. They have access to the designers themselves whether it is via private appointments or sample sales, they have an advantage that the rest of us simply dream about having in our lives. And, New Yorkers don’t follow fashion trends. They set them!
Last but certainly not least. Money. As Sinatra sang, if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere, and, money is king in New York. Keep in mind Manhattan carries an average price tag of $1 million dollars a bedroom, and, it just goes up from there based on address, building amenities, and, a host of other factors. Some New Yorkers pay more in condo fees and taxes than people make in five years time.
One thing for sure — if you’re visiting New York, you’ll know you’re not in Kansas anymore! And be sure to take half the clothes and twice the money you already have planned!
