My First New York Experience and Its Impact on My Creativity.
- DariyaRepina
- Aug 29
- 2 min read
Stepping into New York City for the first time, I was immediately struck by its scale. After nearly four years in Rome’s narrow alleys and cozy piazzas, New York’s vast avenues, towering skyscrapers, and larger cars felt like a whole new dimension. Having admired the city for years through films, stepping into it in person felt like entering my own cinematic story. From the vibrant streets of Manhattan, a hub for art, fashion, and endless creativity, to the artsy energy of Brooklyn, I was completely immersed in the city’s incredible diversity. Each neighborhood carried its own character and spark, and everywhere I looked, I found inspiration.
I also loved how Central Park felt like a peaceful, green oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle-a place that offered calm right in the city’s heart.
Feeling at Home in New York
During my time in the city, I met amazing people, including many creative individuals, many of whom I’m still friends with today. This was the city where, if I wanted, I could speak all five of my languages in a single day. Although my English wasn’t strong at the time, I picked it up quickly thanks to my friends, which made me feel even more at home.
New York After Dark
Beyond the city streets and inspiring art, New York’s nightlife was unforgettable. From rooftop bars with skyline views to underground parties pulsing with music, every night offered a new adventure. Experiencing the city after dark showed me another side of New York: bold, vibrant, and full of life.
Every day in New York felt like an episode of my own TV show, with each experience adding a new scene to my story.
I’m grateful to have so many memories from nights out, events, and fun moments with friends.
I met my now-husband during my first weeks in the city.
A Caribbean Pause
After an incredible time in New York, I headed to the Dominican Republic to be with my mom, and to catch up with friends. I’ve been visiting the island since I was 14, and I never tire of the turquoise ocean, the vibrant flavors of the food, and the gentle Caribbean breeze that makes everything feel lighter. It was the perfect pause to recharge before the next chapter of my creative journey.
A Place to Focus and Create
After my travels from Rome to New York and then the Dominican Republic, I was ready to begin designing my mini collection. Stockholm was the perfect place to do this - it’s home, the city where I grew up, surrounded by family and friends, and it carries its own unique charm. Summer is my favorite season there when the long days fill me with energy and inspiration. In Stockholm, I could finally gather my thoughts and sketches without too many distractions, finding the space and clarity to bring my ideas to life. I dream of one day having a studio there - a place I can return to, collect my thoughts, and create new collections, embraced by the focus and calm that only Stockholm gives me.
I stayed for a while before heading back to Rome, ready to bring my new collection to life. My next blog post will be all about that creative journey in Rome.
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