5 Commute-Friendly Trends I'm Buying to Wear in NYC This Year

To my all sweet friends out there who drive themselves to work: I love you dearly, but the private, temperature-controlled ride you take from your house's driveway to your work's carpark is just not the kind of commute we're dealing with today.
I'm talking about commutes that require their own dress code, whether you live in California or New York or somewhere in between. Whether you're schlepping to the subway, the bus, or your coworker's house to catch a ride, if you're attempting to (stylishly) carry your laptop and your lunch in a tote that's ideally not from Trader Joe's and you're at the mercy of the elements while trying to pull off an outfit that's not only chic and professional but also practical, this one's for you.
From outerwear updates to polished flat shoes and trendy accessories, these are the most commute-friendly 2025 trends I'm shopping to wear on my little daily adventures around NYC.
Minimalist Loafers
We were never getting through this story without talking about great flat shoes. I love seeing classic items have their trendy little moment in the sun, and low-key loafers with minimal fuss (and zero hardware) are truly the chic-yet-practical footwear du jour.
Big Bags
Back in my era of going to an office and splitting my week between my apartment and my boyfriend's place, big bags were *not a thing*. To everyone who gets to live out such circumstances in the current moment (without a canvas tote bag in sight), I couldn't be happier for you.
Modern Trenches
If your version of winter isn't too dramatic, let's talk trenches that are a little bit special. Classic options will never go out of style, but this season is here to tempt you into mixing it up with details like detachable scarves and on-trend capes, animal-print lining, and contrast collars—perhaps even buckle details? Whatever floats your boat.
Leather Gloves
Gloves don't need to be opera length to bring a little drama to a winter look. Black, sure, but we can get trendier! Definitely any shade of brown, and we're still not beyond a punchy pop of red—or, if you're really here for it, boho-inspired fringe and studs are equally here for you.
Cozy Hats
NY is currently getting hit with not only temperatures that require a cozy hat but the wind as well. Beanies and caps are all well and good for keeping heads warm (and Airpods in place), but statement faux-fur and shearling styles are the moment.

Natalie Cantell is an NYC-based style director, creative consultant, and fashion editor, who regularly contributes from Paris. She was the executive director of Who What Wear and Marie Claire’s brand studio until 2023, and now freelances globally on shoots, stories, and special projects.
-
31 Incredibly Chic Finds I Immediately Shared With My Fashion-Editor Friends When I Found Them
They're so good I want them all.
-
Stylish Women in Marseille and Cadaqués Swap Out Their Cashmere Sweaters for This Breezier Alt Every Summer
Vintage J.Crew coded.
-
In SoHo, These Three Fashion Items Are Considered Every Fashion Person's Holy Grails
Worn separately or together.
-
I'll Know You Have Good Taste If These 30 New Arrivals Are Already in Your Shopping Cart
A little summer wardrobe update.
-
I Live for Vacation Dressing—These Are the 52 Exact Items on My Summer 2025 Wish List
I went a little crazy.
-
This Stylish French Woman Paired Summer's Controversial Shoe and Shorts Trends, and the Outfit Is So Chic
See how to re-create the unexpected look.
-
Trust Me—Buy These 22 Things
Here we go again.
-
I'm a Picky Fashion Editor, But I'll Buy Anything These 6 Tastemakers Tell Me To
Their word is worth its weight in gold.