New York shopping & style in pictures

New Yorkers are proud of their city, so NYC swag is a sure bet if you’re shopping for a Gothamite this holiday season. While we’d love to gift everyone an in-unit washing machine and dryer or a check for rent, many of us are strapped for cash this year. A gift card to one of the best restaurants in town or on a pair of tickets to see one of the hottest shows on Broadway would go a long way (you’re welcome for the idea), but our NYC-themed suggestions are a bit more creative than that—and affordable. Last year, we teamed up with some sexy cast members of Company XIV’s Nutcracker Rouge to show off some of our picks. So feast your eyes on our favorite gifts for New Yorkers.RECOMMENDED: The full holiday gift guide

Don’t let the haters tell you otherwise—New York actually smells great and the best perfume stores in NYC are a big reason why. Just as you color your hair between seasons, there is no better time to swap out that tired body mist you’ve been spritzing every morning for a scent that is fresh, new and special to you. It seems like a new designer fragrance comes out every week, but if you’re looking for a signature scent that you won’t smell on everyone else, these perfume shops offer lesser-known and exclusive options. From retailers that offer cool classes where you can customize your own aroma to stores that source and sell bottles from around the globe, you definitely won’t find these aromatic options in any given department store. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to shopping in NYC

Getting waxed is never a good time, no matter what region (nether, or otherwise) is involved. But if you want to be hair-free longterm, it’s one of the most effective ways to get there.  If you're looking for the best places to get waxed in New York City, we see you, and we hear you. That's why we've gone ahead and put together a list of these fast, convenient and quality salons and spas who each offer excellent waxing services for every kind of hairy need. Whether it's bikini, brow, back, underarms or face, these skilled NYC technicians do everything they can to provide the least-painful waxing possible. You're welcome, in advance.  Once you’ve endured this necessary evil, you’ll feel fresh and ready to hit the town, whether it be on one of New York's best beaches, on a pumping dance floor, or even, on a romantic date. Want more primping and pampering in NYC? Head to one of the city's dreamiest day spas, and then get a luxurious couple's massage. You're worth it.

Stumped when it comes to the perfect Halloween makeup ideas to go with your costume? No fear (well, not yet anyways): We’ve got you covered with the best stores for Halloween makeup. Whether you’re stopping by one of delightfully frightful Halloween parties in NYC or maybe visiting one of the best haunted houses in NYC, a little makeup can help finish off your costume idea. Pro-tip: Save some cash by renting your costume at one of the best Halloween costume rental stores. Ready to start? Here are the best stores for Halloween makeup ideas.RECOMMENDED: A complete guide to Halloween in NYC

Welcome to the future. This year, shop for the latest and best tech gifts, including wearable technology, a digital bike lock to add to your bike accessories and more. Find these high-tech gadgets at electronic stores and some of the best shops in NYC.RECOMMENDED: The full holiday gift guide

New York Fashion Week kicked off yesterday, and the attendees upped the ante for their first-day looks. The area around Lincoln Center was practically its own catwalk, and our street-style photographer captured it all. It appears that many of these fashionable folks definitely followed our advice on how to make a splash at Fashion Week. Feeling Fashion Week FOMO? Remember, there are plenty of free NYFW-related events open to the public.RECOMMENDED: New York Fashion Week guide

Come summertime, radiant skin paired with bronze eyes becomes the most sought-after makeup look. Unfortunately, bronze is one of those complicated shades that can appear too orange or red on certain skin tones. That's why we're so happy rose gold is trending this year. Everyone can achieve that effortlessly cool, metallic summer glow—it looks good on all skin tones. Step by step, we have the makeup ideas and products to help you achieve the perfect rose-gold luster. Whether you’re headed to the beach or searching for the best beauty loot for a music festival, rose-gold summer makeup is the look of the season. So don't be afraid to give your sunglasses a rest and let your rose-gold peepers shine!

Out of all the summer fashion trends, nothing is quite as breezy and punchy as perforated apparel. Poking holes in heels, cutout skirts and laser-cut dresses seem to be a reoccurring fad for the ladies, but this season, we’ve spotted more perforated menswear than ever before—and we like it. If you’re searching the best shops for a lightweight summer getup that offers a little room to breathe, we think you’ll agree this hole-some trend is just too perf.

Calling all cyclists—now’s the time to pimp your ride! With all the techy and trendy bike accessories on the market, we’ve found the best and most affordable gear and gadgets to make your bike route even better. Whether you’re a hardcore racer or a laid back cruiser, these add-ons are a must for any New York cyclist. So hop on a two-wheeler and ride your way through summer—in style! RECOMMENDED: The best ways to bike New York

The Oscar statuettes were handed out last night, but there are a few more unofficial awards to give out—a.k.a. the best- and worst-dressed of the evening. Overall, the Academy Awards attendees looked pretty good. We didn't have a Björk situation on our hands last night, but that's not to say everyone nailed their looks. There were a few missteps, but we'll get to that soon. And if you're looking for some style cues from last night, it might be a good idea to start stocking up on dresses with pale and nude hues. That was the major trend of the evening, and will continue to be big this spring.RECOMMENDED: See all Oscars coverage