India, April 8 -- If you watch any movies set in New York City, you're likely to see fashionable women dressed in extravagant, sophisticated clothing. While these movies accurately depict New Yorkers' elevated style, they fall short in other ways: you won't see residents strutting the city streets in stilettos or letting their miniskirts blow up while walking over the subway grate. When you have to walk extensively and rely on public transportation, practicality is crucial. So, when I see someone make these fashion mistakes, I usually assume they're a tourist.

After living in NYC for two years, I've swapped out most of my impractical, uncomfortable clothes and shoes for functional pieces that are just as stylish. If you're shopping for ...