In the last decade or so two TV shows that have revolutionized fashion have been set in the Big Apple. And it's no coincidence that fans the world over were subsequently captivated by the fashion magic that is New York, present in almost every episode of both HBO's Sex and the City and the CW's Gossip Girl. Who hasn't wished for that style: that chic effortlessness, that amazing mix of thrifted, vintage, and high-end pieces, and the confidence to wear it without batting an eye? I've been a major fan of the styling for both shows, and over the years have spied a number of must-have looks that I just have to try my hand at making. Here are a couple of my faves from more recent installments that are super-easy, and super-fun to make!

Gossip Girl

Sex & The City

DIY maven Carly J. Cais sees staying on trend to be an exercise in creativity by crafting pieces oneself and not buying into brand cache. Her blog Chic Steals features numerous DIY tutorials and styling advice to get the designer look-for-less but on a "real person" budget.