Once upon a time on a small island not too far away, there were four successful women who took on the city and all it had to throw at them.  In the age of apparent "uninnocence", where self-protection and closing the deal are paramount, these women slapped on the war paint and armour as best they knew how, then strutted down Fifth Avenue ready to tackle whatever New York City brought their way...

Actress and producer Sarah Jessica Parker turns 48 years old today and to mark her birthday, we look at her best known role to date - as sex columnist and fashion icon Carrie Bradshaw of hit show Sex and the City - as well as her three other female counterparts.  Since the TV series had its final season in 2004 (not to mention also two films being produced from the franchise), the show has remained the epitome of style and fabulousness.

​During its entire running (and beyond), the programme was a fashion beacon for society and became a 'Style Bible' for most women, pushing the boundaries with every fantastical and unique ensemble, thanks to costume designer Patricia Field who dared to go the extra mile.  Patricia herself has said, "I'm here to entertain.  The show is not a documentary.  Its success is that it elevates itself a bit above reality."

Patricia had to sometimes defend her controversial style choices since most looks had never been seen before however it was exactly that vision and ground-breaking bravery that branded each of the actresses as the influential fashionistas we know and love today.  With one Manolo Blahnik'ed foot in front of the other, each actress stepped out in carefully constructed ensembles that were never put together by accident.  This flamboyant manner and reckless courage affected how women demonstrated their own fashion up and down the country therefore we look at what each character brought to the party...make mine a Cosmopolitan!

Carrie Bradshaw: Carrie always dares to step out of the box and take a quirky risk or two.  Her eclectic style results from mixing and matching expensive haute couture with unique accessories to give her panache showing that she would never dress with the crowd.

Samantha Jones: Samantha is as extreme with her wardrobe as she is with her sex life.  She dresses provocatively yet with elegance ensuring to forget about age-appropriate ensembles.  She would strut down Madison Avenue in little more than a silk nightie and stilettos if there were a sexual rendezvous waiting at the other end.

Miranda Brady (née Hobbes): Miranda dresses to reflect her career - never too over the top but always on-trend and chic.  She dresses with simple, effortless sexy style as is perfect for busy working women

Charlotte Goldenblatt (née York): Charlotte always dresses with simple yet elegant style that is classic and timeless.  Her preppy chic is of the upmost elegance albeit slightly reserved at times, mixing solids with pretty patterns.