Happy Hour NYC - Best NY Bars

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UPDATE:It's almost quittin' time, so hightail it down to one of these happy hour spots. We've got the first round...This story was originally published on June 29.

Sound the alarm—it's motha-expletive Friday and it couldn't have come sooner. Are we right? On the off chance you didn't get to blow off work today to go to a bottomless-mimosa brunch, we're stepping in to serve up some top-notch happy-hour spots and the outfits to go with them…for when it is quittin' time, that is.

Want to meet that special someone for a fancy 6 p.m. sip, hang with the wolf pack while you start your weekend off right, or soak up the alfresco rays before the sun sets? We've got you covered with a trio of ensembles for just as many drinking establishments. And (oh yeah!) bonus: Since TGIF signifies an even earlier end to the work week these days, the more-affordable-than-usual libations will keep you happy way past that traditional hour. Cheers to that!

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If you're looking for a casual Friday spot to bring the crew and pound a few beers, look no further than Loreley. With two locations (one in lower Manhattan and one in Williamsburg), there's plenty of space (both indoor and outdoor) to catch a Euro '12 game, eat some German food, or sip on one of their 12 imported beers on tap. And, when they're discounted during the happiest of hours, all the more reason to stop by and say Guten Tag. For this low-key vibe, we suggest an undone work look — black skinny jeans, low heels, and a T-shirt (but like, a cool T-shirt, right?).

Loreley, 64 Frost Street (at the Brooklyn Queen's Expressway); 718-599-0025.

3.1 Phillip Lim Clear Pashli Satchel, $650, available at Barneys; Deepa Gurnani Neon Chevron Beaded Cuff, $88, available at Shopbop; Sandro Tagada Graphic T-Shirt, $120, available at Sandro; Cheap Monday Kloss Horse Heels, $81, available at Dear Fieldbinder; Acne Needle Raw Jean, $200, available at La Garconne.

After a long day's work you deserve to feel transported. One great way to feel like you've gotten outside of NYC without the bother of bridge 'n' tunnel traffic is by heading to The East River's Crow's Nest for some serious relaxation. Enjoy discounted beers and frozen drinks on Thursdays and Fridays and $1 oysters on Tuesdays and Wednesdays as you look across the river and feel just a little bit of ahhh. Remember to bring your cutest sundress (and a hat and sunnies to protect you from all that sunshine).

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The Crow's Nest, The East River (between 29th and 32nd streets); 212-683-3333.

Madewell Silk Dotty Dress, $168, available at Madewell; J.Crew Summer Straw Hat, $34.50, available at J.Crew; Juicy Couture Sunglasses 529, $120, available at Juicy Couture; Lucky Brand Leyna Sandal, $89, available at Lucky Brand.

Oh you fancy, huh? Discounted beers not enough? No problem. Jet to one of The Mermaid Inn's two Manhattan locations for some serious seafood at so-low happy hour prices. With $1 oysters and major bucks off all drinks, it's no wonder they call it "happy hour and a half." If you're going for a swanky happy hour date (which, duh, you should!) keep it chic and cool by transitioning a work-perfect maxi dress into a stunning evening look.

The Mermaid Inn, 96 2nd Street (between 5th and 6th streets); 212-674-5870.

Alexander Wang Dumbo Soft Clutch, $545, available at Ron Herman; Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain, $12, available at Sephora; Forever21 Beaded Braid Necklace, $8.80, available at Forever21; House of Harlow 1960 Gladys Wedge, $275, available at Designs by Stephene; Diane von Furstenberg Marina Printed Silk-Chiffon Gown, $600, available at Net-a-Porter.