Living in New York, it's not uncommon to walk down the street and spot one woman—or even an entire group of women—wearing the same outfit you put on this morning. While there's a certain aesthetic that comes with residing in the city (yes, it involves wearing a lot of black), it's also about practicality. Wild swings in temperature and chaotic commutes mean that we're drawn to clothing that looks good, but also serves a purpose (hello, tote bag).
Through our own scouting, we've started a list of the styles we see again and again on the stylish women of NYC. Now, just because these 12 items are staples doesn't take away from the wide diversity of dress in NYC. There are plenty of ways to wear a leather jacket or pair of stylish sneakers. But for anyone looking to bring a little bit of the Big Apple into their closet, these pieces are the place to start. Read on to shop them now.
1. A Moto Jacket
The classic leather jacket every New York fashion girl needs.Available in sizes 1 to 3.
2. Ankle Boots
Ankle boots give just a hint of lift while still being practical for getting around town.
3. Leather Leggings
These versatile leggings have never made it easier to take a look from day to night.
4. Cool Sneakers
Because unlike in some other cities we could name, walking in NYC is a must.
5. Statement Sunnies
These cool-girl shades are always in style.
6. White Tees
The simple white tee. Dress it up or dress it down—it's chic with just the right amount of edge.Available in sizes XXS to L.
7. Mom Jeans
Relaxed jeans offer just the right touch of cool.
8. Stylish Totes
This bag holds everything you need in one organized space.
9. Plaid Blazers
A blazer is the easy piece that takes a look from relaxed to polished.
10. Vintage-Style Dresses
Ask a New York girl where she shops for dresses, and chances are her go-to is Reformation.Available in sizes XS to XL.
11. Leggings
Leggings aren't just for working out; they're an easy off-duty staple for running errands and relaxing too.Available in sizes XXS to 3XL.
12. Comfortable Work Heels
Commuting in New York isn't designed for sky-high stilettos. We require heels made for walking.Available in sizes 38.5 to 39.5.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated by Gina Marinelli. Want more? See what I stopped wearing when I moved to New York.
-
In SoHo, These Three Fashion Items Are Considered Every Fashion Person's Holy GrailsWorn separately or together.
-
Parisians and New Yorkers Are Stylish, Period—Here's What They'd Buy From theReplica Store Half-Yearly SaleElevated basics, cool shoes, and so much more.
-
Spotted at the Italian Open: The Color Combination That Adds at Least 3 Zeroes to Every OutfitInstantaneously.
-
Downtown's Out—Uptown's In: Come Shopping With Me at Kallmeyer, Khaite, and TotemeHey, Upper East Siders.
-
Fashion People in Switzerland and Portugal Agree That These Will Be 2026's It SneakersThey're not Adidas.
-
This Stylish New Yorker Has Has Impeccable Taste—35 Chic Spring Picks That Have Her AttentionThe dresses alone are gems.
-
Summer 2024's It Shoes Just Met Their 2025 ReplacementClick here to meet their successor.
-
Nice to See You, It Bag—This Is the Chanel Style That's Taking Over the Fashion WorldIt's a stunner.
