New York City is the epicenter of everything: food, music, art and especially fashion.

Every year, millions of people travel to the Big Apple to take a bite out of its culture and sample its clothing. It seems as though everyone strives to achieve that iconic New York style, but not many actually accomplish it. (We're looking at you, Mr. Denim Cut-offs.)

But here's good news: It's really not that difficult. The assumption is that you have to blow tons of cash on a casual outfit, but the essentials for putting together a well-polished NYC look are all around you ... and right after the jump.


The Sunglasses
Everyone wears sunglasses 'round these parts, even when it's cloudy. It's the same reason why teens smoke cigarettes -- they want to look cool. Sunglasses, though, won't give you emphysema.

The most popular designs for New Yorkers are aviators and wayfarers. Sure, you could blow some coin on quality Ray Bans, but since you're eventually going to sit on them, we suggest you grab a pair of street vendor knockoffs.

Head down to Canal Street in Chinatown or Broadway in Soho, where you'll find the faux shades for just $5

The Bag
For women, a bag is a piece of iconography used to express individuality. For men, it's just something to shove all our crap in. However, if there's one thing to splurge on with a casual outfit, it's the bag.

Take the Ben Sherman Crew Weekender Bag. It retails at $119, but it's stylish, functional and it will last you forever. Or until you accidentally leave it on the subway and never see it again. Either way, someone's going to be happy to have it.


The Clothes
While there are quite a few New Yorkers who seem to think clothing is optional, if you're the modest type, there are plenty of sartorial options in the Big Apple to cover your little apples.

Some common staples that exemplify New York street style are the structured vest, skinny jeans and the leather and bomber jacket. And you don't have to spend an arm and a leg, because there are cheap clothing stores around every corner.

But if you want something a bit more tailored and are willing to splurge, take your ass to one of the many custom-design shops, where they'll measure and fit you accordingly. Bonus: includes groping. Warning: Said groping may come from a 67-year-old Albanian male tailor.