If you want to fit in with the likes of Madonna and Cyndi Lauper, book an appointment to play dress up at the Desert Stars Vintage couture showroom in Williamsburg. And by showroom, we mean the most gorgeous apartment-turned-walk in closet adorned with eclectic wallpaper, antique frames, playful graphic prints, guitars, and flowers. And we haven’t even begun talking about the selection of pieces (some of which are too cherished for the owner Janelle to ever even sell). Expect to find the dreamiest 80s and 90s silhouettes, the highest quality fabrics, and the brightest and boldest of colours. Grab your best friend and live out your montage moment!

DM @desertstarsvintage to make an appointment.

The first time I walked into Assembly on the Lower East Side, I was hit by a sudden, albeit fleeting, thought: I am so cool. It’s just one of those places — it makes you feel like the effortlessly stylish, slightly brooding, outwardly confident lead in a 90s film who could make any look, however out there, work. Their curated selection of cult favourite brands (many of which are showing this season) such as Collina Strada, Ottolinger, Sandy Liang, and PH5 includes ready-to-wear, accessories, fragrances, jewellery, shoes, even books. It’s a one stop shop — and the best place to discover new names and feel creatively inspired.

Shop Assembly New York at 170 Ludlow, New York.

It’s no secret that fashion week can feel exclusive and closed off to the public. Strict guest lists and coveted ticket allocations can feel daunting to navigate if you don’t work in fashion or are some sort of public figure. But one of the most beautiful parts of New York Fashion Week these days is that designers and brands are trying to make their shows slightly more open. This season, global fashion brand KidSuper is hosting their Funny Business show at The Apollo’s Historic Theater, with tickets available to purchase for a mere $14. Comedians, surprise guests, fashion, the works. One of the best things on the week’s calendar, if you ask us.

Buy tickets to KidSuper’s Funny Business here.

Perhaps this should say, ‘where to find your perfect book.’ Because the collection of romance books at The Ripped Bodice is truly a daydreamer’s heaven. Split by the most specific of categories — never again will you be satisfied by the ‘non-fiction’ and ‘fiction’ signs at your local Waterstones — with a focus on queer, women-led stories, the space mirrors the bright colours of its books’ spines with an inviting, joyous environment. Plus, they have author events and book clubs. Be prepared to fall in love.

Shop The Ripped Bodice at 218 5th Ave, Brooklyn.

New York has no shortage of art museums and exhibitions, and the endless choices can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you haven’t swung by the Met this summer, definitely catch Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion to drool over delicate archival gowns from names like Charles Worth. Or if you’re looking to learn some history while you’re in the city, go back in time at the New-York Historical Society before their Lost New York closes later this month. But our top pick? Ice Cold: An Exhibition of Hip-Hop Jewelry at the American Museum of Natural History. Celebrating the cultural impact of Hip Hop and its biggest names, the exhibit traces the genre’s evolution through, that’s right, jewellery. From oversized gold chains of the 80s to the shimmering diamonds of today, it holds pieces worn by A$AP Rocky, Tyler, the Creator, Jay-Z, the Notorious B.I.G., and more. We particularly recommend seeing Nicki Minaj’s ‘Barbie’ pendant with your own eyes.

Visit the American Museum of Natural History at 200 Central Park West, New York.

Rooftop bars are scattered all over the world, but nowhere does them like New York. Perhaps it is the contrast between the busy streets and open air, or the fact that the skyline is just that good, but there’s no feeling quite like grabbing a summer cocktail high above the skyscrapers. My friend recommended this one for a post-show catch up with the clouds. Located at the Ritz Carlton in Nomad, Nubeluz by José Andrés is just what the end of summer is calling for.

Visit Nubeluz by José Andrés at Ritz Carlton Nomad.