Intersection: Sharp & Sober Street Style on the Upper East Side The Upper East Side of Manhattan is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parts of New York City. It's easy to get distracted by high-profile residents coming and going (Paul McCartney, the fashion designer Michelle Smith of Milly, and Ramona Singer from the "Real Housewives of New York City" were spotted on a recent visit), but when you look past the boldfaced names, landmark buildings, well-tended sidewalks, museums and Central Park, you see a distinct sense of style, even in its most extreme variations. Get an Upper East Sider talking about the neighborhood look, and they're quick to tell you it's a blend of conservative and sophisticated. Piling on or wearing too many loud colors in one outfit will earn you stares. After Hurricane Sandy and her sister snowstorm Athena passed through the city, we visited 78th Street and Madison Avenue to scout street style. The fashion veterans in the neighborhood talked to us about how much has changed since the days of dressing in one designer from head to toe. These days, it's not unusual to see a mix of high-low on the Upper East Side (high, like Chanel or Birkin high). Generally speaking, there is a uniform on the Upper East Side that includes flats (ballet or driving shoes and riding boots); tailored blazers; quilted Barbour jackets; muted tones; cropped pants; the statement purse; and Brooks Brothers pieces. But Rebecca Bergen, whom we met across the street from the Rudolf Steiner School, and who was born and raised in the neighborhood, said although she loves the stereotypical look, she colors outside the lines. She's a fashion blogger who favors vintage clothing and is inspired by Françoise Hardy, Marianne Faithfull and Penelope Tree.