As a New Yorker,  it’s essential to have watched “Sex in the City”. Let’s be honest- Carrie Bradshaw and Samantha Jones are the classic archetypes of every single girl living in the City.

But rewatching the entire “Sex and the City” series, including the movies and the latest iteration, “And Just Like That…” in a month turns out to be a surprisingly emotional rollercoaster. Reliving decades of the characters’ lives will tap into your emotions, oscillating between nostalgia, laughter, and unexpected sentimentality.

Timeless Themes, Timeless 90s Fashion

Despite the decades that have passed since the show first premiered, many of the themes still resonate deeply. We’re still chasing love, fashion, and identity in the city. The quintessential Sex and the City 90s fashion – think Manolos, mini skirts, and oversized handbags – continues to inspire. Carrie’s eclectic style, Miranda’s power suits, Samantha’s sultry dresses, and Charlotte’s whimsical flair remain unforgettable.

The Luxury Lifestyle Myth

All iterations of Sex in the City set unrealistic expectations surrounding the characters’ finances. Carrie’s rent-controlled apartment, Miranda’s sprawling Brooklyn brownstone, and Samantha’s Upper East Side penthouse are all implausible on their reported salaries. Other than maybe Charlotte’s lifestyle, nothing quite adds up. Even in the new series “And Just Like That…”, Miranda has left her corporate law job but still can afford a brownstone. The show’s portrayal of luxury living, with endless cosmopolitans and designer clothes, sugarcoats the harsh realities of NYC’s cost of living.

The Enduring Allure of Mr. Big

We may have evolved, but our quest for love remains the same. We’re still searching for our James John Preston (aka Mr. Big) – that elusive, perfect partner. Carrie’s on-again, off-again relationship with Mr. Big was the stuff of legend, and their eventual happily-ever-after felt satisfying. In typical Mr. Big/Carrie fashion, nothing can be simple. Mr. Big’s sudden death in the first episode of “And Just Like That…” was tragic but predictable given the curse of the wedding shoes. 

But why was Mr. Big such a phenomenon? Well, he was handsome, wealthy, and had a sexy male toxicity thing going for him. Carrie had many love interests throughout the show but it was always Mr. Big. Not much has changed, single girls are still always drawn to the toxic one. Mr. Big was the 90’s version of “a man in finance, 6’5, with blue eyes“.

A Product of Its Time

The show’s candid discussion of sex and relationships was groundbreaking in the 90s, but it’s striking how judgmental the narrative often is. The women are frequently labeled “sluts” or “promiscuous,” reflecting the era’s more conservative attitudes.

Aging in the City

Witnessing the characters’ growth over the years is bittersweet. Miranda is reinventing herself, Charlotte is embracing motherhood, and Carrie is navigating grief. Samantha’s departure serves as a poignant reminder that not all friendships last.

The Legacy of Carrie Bradshaw

No matter how much the City has transformed over the years – Carrie Bradshaw remains an iconic figure, symbolizing female independence, creativity, and style. Her columns, which often explored the complexities of relationships and single life, continue to resonate. When you’re walking through West Village and passing her iconic apartment (the actual apartment is not in the UES), you can’t help but feel connected to all the memories. 

Sex and the City remains a guilty pleasure. While some aspects feel dated, the show’s over-the-top drama, witty banter, and relatable characters continue to captivate. Sex and the City’s enduring influence and iconic style truly is pop culture history.

Featured Image Paramount Pictures/Getty Images. 2, Craig Blankenhorn/HBO, 6; AdobeStock, 3; Bauer Griffin/Getty Images (Magnolia Bakery) Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images (Yankee Stadium); Gary Hershorn/Getty Images