I'm not from NYC but I haven't heard anyone down on the Mono pattern around here. I think like another poster mentioned it might just be a case of sour grapes. The Mono pattern is one of my most favorite patterns from LV, and I agree,it looks great on the NF! If you are excited for this bag and it's the one you dreamed of, go for it, that is really the only thing that matters! You'll love it and wear it well and that's what people will see and most importantly, you'll know it's the real thing! Hope to see a reveal of your Mono NF soon