New York Style Inspiration

New York
/nu jɔrk ˌsɪdi/ /nu jɔk ˈsɪti/; the most populous city in the United States, located in southeastern New York State at the mouth of the Hudson River.

How I style outfits for a trip to NYC definitely depends on the time of year as the weather varies greatly! However, one thing is for sure: you have to find that perfect sweet spot between comfort & style. Oh, and all that walking, a good shoe is critical, but it doesn't need to throw off the rest of your look!

Summer Sessions: it gets incredibly hot and humid in the city during summer months, therefore breathable fabrics are your best friend, tailored shorts and cute ballet flats can be great staples too (just make sure your shoe can withstand a little city dust!). I live in matching sets - they're the ultimate 'cheat-code' for looking 'put together'. You can pair a matching set with sneakers for exploring the city by day and add a kitten heel sandal to bring glamour for an evening in the city that never sleeps!

What I packed:

• Lightweight shorts, cotton balloon pants, matching sets
• Sleeveless & thin strap tops, cotton tees
• Light jacket, to throw over shoulders when the sun goes down
• Ballet flats, Free People x Clarks Wallabees, kitten heel sandals

Winter Wonderland: if you've ever been to NYC in the winter months, you already know it's not just cold, it's bitterly cold, the wind tunnels between the towering skyscrapers are no joke! So warm layers are the 'must pack' option. Think chunky knits, long wool coats, good structured jeans (leave the distressed pair at home!) and of course a sturdy pair of boots to get you around town, regardless of weather.

What I packed:

• Structured denim jeans, relaxed track pants
• Long wool coat, warm hats & a good cashmere blend scarf
• Long sleeve tee, good for layering and warm knits
• Chelsea boots, kitten heel boots and of course, comfy sneakers

As always and no matter the climate, I try and find pieces I can 'mix and match', footwear included, to create more options for less space and suitcase weight - this is always so much easier in the summer months or traveling in warmer climates of course, but it is possible to create this packing list for cold climates too, with some clever planning.

A good pair of sunglasses regardless of season is a must, not only adding style to your outfit (no matter how casual!), but to shield your eyes on a sunny day. Hats too are a must for me, either to protect your head and face from the sun, or indeed from the cold.
In the warmer weather, I loved wearing this chocolate brown matching set from H&M, it has such interesting texture and I loved splitting them up and wearing it separately. These Vuori shorts were also the perfect amount of comfort for summer exploration of the city.
You'll see that my Zara wool blend coat and Loewe cashmere blend scarf make regular appearances, both kept me so warm, the length of the coat was perfect to protect my whole body. I also love this Free People black slouchy hat which kept me super warm.

Below are some outfits I styled and loved, from Summer through Winter.