What to Wear in New York: Fashion & Practicality (2024) + NYC Packing List

As a born-and-raised New Yorker with a love for style, comfort, practicality, these are my insider tips on how to curate the perfect NYC packing list. From travel must-haves to fashion essentials, here’s everything you need to know before you go. Let’s create you an NYC wardrobe that’s not only functional but also cute, so you can confidentially conquer my beloved city in true New York fashion.

Table of Contents

New York Fashion

One of New York’s most well-known claims to fame is its status as a fashion capital. So it is one of the best places in the world to express yourself creatively through style and clothes. Here in NYC, we celebrate you being your most vibrant and unique self. From festivals and artistic events to the famous bi-annual New York Fashion Week, it’s not hard to see why.

However, in this sprawling city, you NEED comfort and practicality woven into your outfits. That’s because in NYC, we walk A LOT. In fact, it’s the most walkable city in the country. So you’ll see even celebrities walking/taking the train here because it’s so easy (but also to avoid rush hour traffic).

While New York City fashion can be anything you want it to be, there are also a lot of new cute 2023/2024 trends I’m loving and will also be sharing below.

Weather in NYC

Winter: Honestly, our winters aren’t that serious anymore. Sadly, we didn’t even get a snow day last winter. Which pales in comparison to my childhood here where we’d get several snow days and the city would be forced to pause. But there are the few days between January and March that drop below freezing. So definitely bring a bubble/puffer coat, hat, and gloves.
Fall/Spring: These are the most glorious times to be in NYC. The humidity drops, the air goes crisp, and it’s warm enough to wear cute layers and enjoy the outdoors.
Summer: Muggy and hot, especially in July. The weather can oscillate in extremes between spicy sunny days to thunder tropical storms. Bring an umbrella, a subway shirt, and breathable clothing. The humidity is the worst part of summer in NYC.

What to Wear in New York: Fashion Trends & Practicality Tips

1. Subway Shirt AKA Loose Button-Up Blouse (Summer)

This is a practical essential. In the summer, women in NYC wear what we jokingly call a “subway shirt”. This is usually a loose button-up shirt. It’s particularly useful when taking public transportation to avoid unwanted attention from crazy or creepy men and the centuries’ old concept has recently gone viral. In addition to the creeps on the subway train, you might also need it when entering chilly air-conditioned museums, galleries, and indoor restaurants. And also, so your skin isn’t touching the backseat of the train.

Fashion-wise, in the summer, I love a cute white linen button-up like this one. For a budget option, I own this linen white dupe from Amazon! However, that one is more for summer (thin linen). For a colorful year round alternative, I also own this Anthropologie button up in light rose/pink.

This button-up can easily be thrown over most outfits. It goes perfect over a crop top + mini skirt, or with those cute tennis mini dresses like this one.

2. Leather Everything ★

In NYC, leather is timeless! A black leather jacket like this Reformation one, can be a great layering piece for navigating the city’s constantly changing climate. It’s thick enough to keep you warm on a cloudy, breezy day, yet light enough to allow you to comfortably meander through neighborhoods without getting too hot on more sunny ones. This is perfect for fall in NYC! For a more affordable version, Target has this one in brown and black for just $48!

Down: with jeans and white sneakers for an effortlessly cool look during a day of museum hopping.
Up: Then, in the evening, it can be paired with sleek black pants or skirt for an evening of bar hopping.

Leather pants, skirts, and tops are making a big comeback, too. Check out these cargo leather pants from Target for just $32! Or this mini-skirt from Abercrombie!

3. Stylish & Comfortable Walking Sneakers ★

Sneakers are in. Everyone wears them everywhere now, even to the club. But especially in NYC, where it is absolutely crucial to be able to walk to enjoy as much of the city as possible with ease. However, if you want to channel both the stylish and pragmatic nature of the city with your sneakers, opt for a cute yet comfortable pair.

Many New Yorkers tend to go the traditional white sneaker route because, no matter how worn-in they may get, they will always be a versatile closet staple. The most popular styles right now are:

Addidas Sambas : Note that this is the basic classic most people are wearing, but you can also add more of your personality/spice to it by getting more unique ones like the platform gazelle ones which don’t feel as dainty and flow nicer with wide leg pants.
New Balance 327: There is a big trend in wearing these running shoes in casual settings. Just remember to style it with nice accessories (like cute bags, sunglasses and/or some gold/silver jewelry) to keep the look balanced in less casual spaces.
Dr. Scholls Time Off Lace Up sneakers ★: These are ALL THE RAVE right now. So I got them and…. I’m happy to report that they are 100% worth the hype! I love the platform height they have, too. They look stunning with a skirt or wide leg pants! I walk almost everywhere with them now from my morning coffee walk to a cute restaurant outing.
On Cloud ★: While I don’t like these for working out, I think they’re GREAT for walking in comfortable style! I rock these in white and this pair in black/rose.
Veja: I feel like these are kind of overdone at this point. especially because that V logo is so big. But maybe there are some newer styles that you can still rock!
Reebok Classics: This is the 2023 white fitness shoe. All the cool fitness kids are wearing them.
Nike Airforce Ones: Boring! Over them! Everyone and their moms are wearing these. I think they’re giving teenager/baby Gen-Z that’s still figuring out their style, so they caved into the trend of these Nike sneakers that are actually really heavy, bulky, and uncomfortable.
Nike high tops are way more comfortable and are timeless New York sneakers.

My favorites:

These white + rose pink On sneakers ★ look amazing with both casual and cute outfits (I wear them constantly because they go with EVERYTHING). But you can also get the same style in green and other not-as-femme colors.
And the Dr. Scholls platforms go perfectly with everything from wide-leg pants to skirts and dresses!
If you prefer non-white shoes, I recommend these black + champagne rose On Sneakers as sporty walking shoes. I saw Amber Heard stylishly rocking them in Spain!

4. Cute Backpack (Book Bag) ★

Remember, most of us don’t drive in NYC! So you can’t just “leave things in the car” here. You need to carry everything with you. Your water bottle, phone, keys, wallet, umbrella, pills, book, camera, sanitizer, etc. So where do you put it all? We carry backpacks! (Or tote bags listed below at #17)

Dagne Dover ★: If you’re looking for the perfect utilitarian yet style-conscious carry-all for an on-the-go trip to NYC, then check out this cute and practical backpack. I use this for my flights too, because my laptop and camera fit. It’s gorgeous, doesn’t get dirty in black, and practical with its many compartments.
Urban Outfitters: For something less sporty and more femme, this cute backpack can be used for both outdoors and nicer indoor spaces. Plus, pink is now all the rave since the new Barbie came out. And ya know what? I’m all for us reclaiming pink in fashion!
Or, if you still can’t fathom pink but want some pop, this one is both fashionable, black, and practical.
Calpak: This one from Calpak is perfect for travel. You can fit it under your airplane seat and stuff it with your things that didn’t fit on your carry-on luggage (overhead). It’s made from recycled plastic bottles and can double as a duffle! I think their new white sands color gives a more elevated look while being practical! They have the smaller laptop bag size and the bigger 26L one for travel.

5. Compact Umbrella ★

Did you know that New York gets more rain than Seattle? And as previously mentioned, New York’s weather patterns are constantly changing. So, to avoid getting caught in sudden rain storms, pack a lightweight, compact umbrella.

I own this tiny one, which easily fits in my purse. And it was only $15. It also comes with UV protection, so if I have to walk a lot in the summertime I can use it as shade.
For a trendier pop, I like this vibrantly colored iridescent umbrella.
To rock the white-and-black look, check out this stylish anti-UV umbrella.

With these options, you’ll be prepared for our Atlantic rainstorms while walking around NYC!

6. Long Denim Skirt (Spring, Summer, Fall)

I was in denial about this one for a long time. Jean skirts are back?! But hear me out. Denim skirts like this one can go with so much! And they accentuate our hips! You can throw on a cute tank top in the summer. Or wear the jean skirt with boots in the fall. That means you can get a couple outfits out of this one, just like jean pants. On top, of that this is an April through November staple. I’ll take it! My favorite is this one from Abercrombie. Please note that it runs small on the waist, so I sized up.

7. Chunky Jewelry (Gold or Silver)

As natural statement-makers, New Yorkers are prone to wearing eye-catching jewelry. Perhaps the biggest jewelry fashion trend sweeping NYC at the moment is chunky hoop earrings. So, if you want to elevate your outfits in NYC, throw on a pair of oversized hoops in gold or silver like these. Hoops will quickly take any casual day outfit, such as a tank, blue jeans, and sneakers, and transform it into one fit for NYC’s dynamic nightlife scene. You can also add this necklace to your outfit!

8. Silk Slip Dress (Year-round)

Hear me out; this is a year-round dress. In the winter, you can wear a silk slip dress with an open or closed sweater. During the shoulder seasons, you can layer the silk slip dress. And in the summer you can wear a silk slip dress as is. The possibilities are endless with this simple, elegant, and sexy dress. I love the Quince silk slip dresses; they’re high quality and at amazing prices. You can get them in knee or thigh/mini lengths. For an even cheaper option? Target has great ones for just $20! And for the fanciest version, check out Cami NYC’s raven dress (but I think Quince rivals them at a fraction of the price).

9. Satin Everything

Following the silk revival, satin is also growing in popularity. As a tank top, shorts, trousers, and even cute skirts! And like silk slip dresses, these can be dressed for every season! I’ve been seeing them worn here in beautiful greens, black, reds, and ivory. The only con is satin pants/skirts wrinkle easily, so you’ll need a steamer for the lighter colors after the first wear. But the Quince silk dresses have not wrinkled for me.

I also don’t recommend the satin pants in the winter (too thin). But the dresses and skirts can be worn with stockings underneath and a sweater on top! I adore these from Abercrombie 1)Satin shorts (pictured above) and 2) Satin long trouser pants.

10. Puffer Coat (Winter) ★

If you’re venturing to New York in the winter, then having a warm and reliable puffer coat is absolutely essential for braving the cold streets. Luckily, the puffer is another timeless NYC fashion piece, so there are near-endless fashionable varieties of these coats, without making you look like a marshmallow.

Perhaps the most on-trend style of puffer in the city right now is the cropped iteration, such as this one, which can be seen on many New Yorkers in a variety of bright colors. For a more affordable version, I own this one from Target and it’s SO cute. For a timeless, style opt for longer styles, such as this gorgeous knee-length version, in an elegant winter white.

Favorite: But for an extra pop? I have this convertible puffer jacket from Farm Rio is my FAVORITE. It’s so warm and stylish!

11. Leather Boots (Chunky or Square)★

Even though flat ankle booties are out (see: cheugy), boots remain an essential New York shoe, especially from November to March. I am currently obsessed with these burgundy Miista boots (pictured above) which are currently on sale! They’re high quality, comfortable, and look amazing with almost everything. The square-styled shoes are super in right now, too. I see this being the new 10-year trend.

For more comfortable, casual options many city-goers tend to prefer leather chunky Chelsea boots or a classic pair of Dr. Martens 1460s.

On the other hand, for fancier events, I’m still seeing some pointy-toed but square heel leather boots. These look great with the wide-leg pants era we’re shifting into.

You can wear these boots casually or easily dress them up for a nice dinner or a show with a mini skirt, jeans, a blazer, etc.

We’re also loving them in white. White leather has made a beautiful comeback in NYC not just in boots but in purses, too!

12. Chunky Sandals

Chunky sandals are cute and stylish! But also insanely comfortable for all the NYC walking you’ll be doing! And best of all? They go perfectly with the bourgeoning fashion trend of straight/wide-leg pants. Needless to say, they will also give you far more support than those floor-flat sandals of 2012 (please let’s never bring this orthopedic-nightmare trend back ever again), while taking any dainty summer dress or pants to the next level.

For the ultimate sandal statement, go for a platform style like my favorite Timberland sandals, or for a slightly more subdued look, opt for the classic lug sole gladiator sandals from Dr. Martens. From day to night, these sandals will keep you feeling comfortable, and your outfit feeling New York-cool.

13. Rain Boots

Did you know that it rains more in NYC than in Seattle? But you cannot let the rain stop you from getting out and about comfortably. Consider a chic pair of boots like these gorgeous Everlane chelsea rainboots which are compact, comfortable, and go with everything. Alternatively, for a white-and-black color pop, you can grab these Quince rain boots!

14. Scarves and Hats ★

Since NYC is primarily comprised of islands between the Hudson River and the Atlantic Ocean, when it gets cold here, that icy wind stings your ears and neck. Between October and April, bring scarves and hats. In the winter, definitely add gloves. A cute hat and scarf can also elevate a look or add a pop of your personal touch to basics/a comfortable outfit. I love this one from Anthropologie ($58); it’s sort of an Acne Studios dupe (which is way too expensive at $350). If you like wearing beanies, this snowflake beanie is a great choice!

15. Straight Leg, Cargo, or Wide Pants ★

Most New Yorkers (and people) have ditched skinny jeans and upgraded to either classic straight-leg, cargo, wide-leg trousers or other baggy pants. Not only are these super comfortable as you make your way around the city, but they can then be easily dressed up in the evening with platform sandals or shoes. I love the Effortless Trousers from Aritiza. And I love the $20-30 Target options like these high-rise trousers. As for jeans, I am obsessed with these pair of Abercrombie 90s curved ones, too.

In the summer, loose linen pants like these are perfect for visiting beaches in NYC or taking day trips to Long Island beachtowns!

15. Crossbody & Shoulder Bags

Aside from the canvas tote bag, another useful bag for your New York packing list may be a crossbody or fanny bag. In any big, fast-paced city, keeping your belongings as close to you as possible is important; New York is no exception. When New Yorkers are off the clock, many choose the uber-minimal route of using just their pockets or a small crossbody bag.

So many local New Yorkers carry sleek black leather bags like this Oak & Fort for increased versatility and durability, but some choose more vibrant options like this beaded varsity check. Regardless of color, shape, or material, a crossbody bag is a great and fashionable option for keeping all of your belongings secure during your stay in NYC.

If you’re vegan, these cactus leather bags are all the rage right now! They are gorgeous.

16. Cute Athleisure ★

Athleisure has become an important part of nearly everyone’s wardrobe over the past few years, but especially for us New Yorkers who are constantly on the move. We love biking, workout classes, hanging out in the park, and running! And even for our day trips from NYC to nearby hiking trails.

These Nike socks are also all the rage. They provide an incredibly comfortable cushioning, so I never want to take them off! I also love this Lululemon cropped sweater which accentuates your waist. These bras at the Girl Friend Collective provide lots of support while being smooth and gorgeous. And we’re all obsessed right now with the tennis skirts and dresses. I got this dupe for just $30! Also, don’t miss the body suits. I got this one off Amazon for just $25! and I’m in LOVE with the Abercrombie tennis dresses.

The most popular brands for cute athleisure include Lululemon, Alo Yoga, and Girlfriend Collective; perfect for a training session at one of the city’s famed Barry’s Bootcamp, SoulCycle, Pilates Reformers, or Rumble Boxing, and then grabbing brunch with friends after.

17. Black Pants or Jeans (Fall/Winter)

I feel like the color black isn’t as popular in fashion right now. Whites, beiges, reds, and even browns are taking over. Plus, colors give you more of a pop. However, when traveling, black is the perfect color that allows you to pack light because it goes with almost everything and you can’t stain them. So consider classic black pants, black trousers, or black jeans like these.

18. Trench Coat (Spring/Fall)

A timeless fashion basic, the trench coat is also a staple of New York dressing in the fall and spring. If you are in NYC during one of these seasons, pack a trench to stay comfortable and look fashionable. Many New Yorkers favor a classic beige gabardine style, such as this trench by Everlane but for a more modern twist, consider this fabric-like gorgeous trench by Mackage. For spring in NYC, check out this colorful trench coat by Olivia Ruben. All of these allow for layering during shoulder seasons.

19. Canvas Tote Bag ★

I got this one for free at a gallery event!

Last, but not least is one of the most important accessories for us New Yorkers: the canvas tote bag. Simple, practical, and often inexpensive, this seemingly mundane bag can be seen on the arms of those in all five boroughs. That’s because the canvas tote is for all of your own personal items that you might need for a day out and about, it will also act as a perfect, eco-friendly vessel for all of NYC purchases and practical goods.

Remember, we don’t have cars here, so you must carry everything you need throughout the day. That means your water bottle, umbrella, makeup, etc., go into your canvas tote without the heavy weight a bulky leather purse would add to your shoulders. Best of all? You can fold it into a tiny square in your luggage or purse.

20. Fitted Basics Shirts ★

Basics are versatile and sustainable wardrobe essentials that offer the perfect blend of style and comfort. With their flattering fit, they complement wide-leg jeans, chic pants, and even trendy jean skirts, adding a touch of elevated look to your practical city ‘fits. These Target basic fitted shirts can be worn up or down, and the material is so buttery smooth! The white fitted tees go perfectly with almost any jeans or pants, plus they look great year-round.

I also like the basic fitted turtle necks from Aritzia for fall and winter. Pictured above.

What makes them more sustainable is that these basic shirts open up a world of outfit possibilities. Whether you’re exploring museums, taking leisurely strolls through Central Park, or savoring a glamorous dinner in Manhattan, a high quality fitted basics shirts go with everything!

21. Trendy Sunglasses

Of course, sunglasses are necessary for any destination. However, us New Yorkers tend to walk a lot, and sometimes right in the direction of the sun. Consider having more fun with your sunglasses and sporting the trendier oval sunglasses. Or for a more feminine pop, these luxury cat eye sunglasses are a big fashion trend in NYC right now. Sleek and stylish. Here are a few more options pictured above:

Crap Sunglases thickly framed sunglasses
Tom Ford’s classic round frames but with a sunset tint .
Le Spec’s 90s frames. These are currently a best seller.
Amazon $13 Matrix-looking sunglasses (pictured above): 90s fashion trends coming back in full swing.

Needless to say, New York is a city full of individualistic, creative personalities who often express their identities through their clothing. So, when packing for your trip, remember to, most of all, have fun and bring what makes you feel like you. Naturally, there are a few staple pieces that most every New Yorker likely owns and uses on a regular basis. Ultimately, in order to get the most out of your stay and fully embrace the independent, free-thinking New York spirit, be sure to wear what makes you feel your very best. Below, you can find a packing list featuring some signature New York pieces to kick start your packing list.

2023 NYC FASHION TRENDS RECAP

NO MORE SKINNY JEANS 🙂
White and black colors matched together, especially in leather
Canvas leather for vegans
White leather boots and purses
Leather jackets (elegant style not the motorcycle type)
Chunky everything. Chunky boots, hoops, sandals, pants, etc.
Wide-legged or straight legged pants/jeans. This includes cargos.
Long jean skirts, but we’re still in denial about this one.
Crossbody soft-fabric fannys
Cat-eyed sunglasses and the 90s matrix ones
White sneakers
Nike ankle-knee length socks
Silver everything. Silver purses, silver jewerly, silver umbrellas. Including that iridescent silver, too. Gold is still in, but silver is making a comeback for those who can rock it (ahem, minority of cool-toned people).
Mixing metals (silver + gold jewerly)
Linen pants, shirts, and dresses in the summer
Silk dresses and skirts
Wearing whatever you love! Especially if it is authentically and uniquely you!

TIMELESS NYC FASHION RECAP

Leather boots
Rainboots
Canvas tote bags
Trench coats
Athleisure
Sleek backpacks
Linen in the summer

NYC Packing List for Every Season

City fashion is different. It’s cute but it NEEDS to be practical and comfortable. Here’s the NYC packing list that combines both:

WINTER NYC Packing List

Puffer Coat:
- Aritzia The Super Puff™ Shorty
- Mackage Calina Puffer Jacket
Scarf, hat, gloves
Leather skirts
Stockings (pantyhose)

Lifestyle, New York City

What to Wear in New York: Fashion & Practicality (2024) + NYC Packing List

New York Fashion

Weather in NYC

What to Wear in New York: Fashion Trends & Practicality Tips