If you’re looking for a rebel you generally don’t look to the “upper east siders”. The upper east side of New York City is known for tailored, designer heavy sometimes even restrained fashion. Upper East Siders however are everywhere…it is indeed a state of mind, at least in the capacity we’re discussing here. There are “Upper East Siders” inParis,Spain,Texasand anywhere else.  Though not often touted as trailblazers or icons, they’re always good. Always being the operative word here…its predictable. But don’t confuse predictability with a lack of appeal. What they offer is safe but no less authentic.

 Maybe the upper east side appeal is the lack of apology. As “fashionistas” we pride ourselves on looking effortless. We want to come off to our peers as so style savvy that we glide out of our beds in the morning in our perfectly manicured ensembles. When we receive validation for our impeccably put together looks we say thank you as if someone complimented our posture…”oh you’re sweet, thanks”. Very rarely will you find someone who replies to flattery with…”oh my God thank you! You have no freaking idea how long I stood in front of my mirror with my iPhone putting this whole thing together”. For most of us our worst nightmare is looking contrived, looking precise or forced so some of go above and beyond to look completely accidently chic. The upper east sider wants all that work to go noticed, there’s nothing accidental about it. They don’t need the latest Wang or to be shot by Tommy Ton, they are more than comfortable wearing their mothers passed down Chanel and a skirt with a tailored jacket that actually matches.

Every aesthetic has its own distinct appeal. The upper east sider’s appeal may just be the fact that looking perfectly put together is more important than looking effortless. Their disciplined style is the highest form of rebellion when you think about it.