Few can be classics. But if you're like Mena and dress in quality-made heirlooms from your grandfather's closet, you already know that.  We gawked at the Cooper Union student on St. Marks Place recently as he told us about his generational style inspiration.  His grandfather owned the fedora and worn-in shoes years back but they've just recently become staples in Mena's wardrobe. Even with hand-me-downs, trust this kid's got style all his own - from the gorgeous quilted creme sweater (from SouthHampton) to the soft leather jacket (a street fair buy). Looks like the style leaves don't fall too far from the tree...

Beads, beads, good for your heart, the more you eat, the more you… huh?

I’ve gone crazy for beads (if I wasn’t already crazy for them). I recently took a trip down to a coastal city called Durban which is in a province called Kwa-Zulu Natal, which basically means Zulu Kingdom, i.e. where my tribe (the Zulus) reign from.

Women make a living off of creating gorgeous beaded pieces which includes jewelry, crafts and other cool things. I found my heaven! I bought beaded sandals, bracelets and even a beaded spectacles holder (is that what it’s called?).

I thought I was good at making beaded art and such…Not after I saw the work that these women do. Every single bead is put on one by one, by hand, by candle light!

Can you spell M.E.T.I.C.U.L.O.U.S?

We don't often spend extra cash (mostly because we don't have it...), but sometimes throwing down that extra dime can go a long way. Case in point, Emmanuel - a suit specialist from California. His entire outfit on the LES screamed high-class, from the Barneys bowtie to the well-cut and well-striped suit jacket by the classic Thom Browne. Notice the added extra flair care of his Shipley and Halmos floral shirt and those dapper Paul Stuart shoes.  Hey, we all need to splurge once in our lives...especially if we can look this good!

Sometimes strappy heels and sexy stilettos just aren't enough for your feet. They - like you - want more. And so NYC's most fashionable are stepping out in a new look - shoes with cute socks. At first glance, the trend's sickly sweet but after seeing it sass up a look from Bleecker to Brooklyn, heels and hose have become our new fave. It's time to show your toes a little lovin'.

This chick, Tess, is cool as ice!  She's an NYC-beauty that styles (and blogs) by her own rules: with collective bracelets, statement rings, and one sweet blinging neck-piece. The bird-crystal embellishment is stunning,  her loose turquoise shift dress is relaxedly chic and her mint-colored shoes are yummy! No wonder her blog, The Little Black List, is such a go-to site for style-tips - Tess runs this City!