When you are thinking about what to wear in New York in Spring, as a native New Yorker, I can tell you this: it isn’t going to be warm. New York fashion is all about layers during this time of year. You may get lucky with the weather and enjoy some warmer days, but New York City in Spring can still be cold and damp. Layers will be your best friend. Each month, I am sharing what to wear in New York for that month, so you will have an idea of what you need pack to enjoy your time in the Big Apple.
A good idea is to focus on dark colors when thinking about what to wear in New York. I say this because in the Winter and early Spring, it is likely to snow or sleet or rain, and the amount of water that gets kicked up or sprayed from passing cars and buses is more than you would think. I have seen women in beautiful winter white outfits look gray from the calf down after an afternoon walking the streets of New York City. And you don’t want this to be you. The good news is that when you pack dark colors, it is easier to create outfits without having to pack a large number of items. And you won’t have to worry about the dirt and the grime showing.
Final tip before we get into this month’s what to wear in New York: New York City is windy. Not like Chicago, but the tall buildings allow for little sun, with the exception when it is directly overhead. When you are standing on a corner, waiting to cross the street, the wind shoots down the street like a jet plane taking off. Hats and hoods come in handy. As does a small travel umbrella, which you throw into your handbag. You will likely find some ambitious folks selling them on the street if you forget one. Never pay more than $8-10 for an umbrella in these situations. Or pop into the Duane Read or CVS and grab one there.
WHAT TO WEAR IN NEW YORK IN SPRING
This New York packing list comprises 27 pieces, including lightweight sweaters, cardigans, layering pieces, button-down shirts, block heels, comfortable walking shoes, black pants and denim, and long wool coats. You certainly do not need to pack all 27 pieces; you do not need five pairs of shoes; these are here to serve as options. Personally, I wouldn’t be able to walk all day in a skinny heel bootie, but I would wear this out to dinner in the evening when I know I am traveling by cab or Uber. You will walk quite a bit in New York along city streets, especially if you want to save money, so comfortable footwear is extremely important. You might notice that I have not included any sneakers in this capsule. Why is that? New York women, especially true Upper East Side women, would never be seen in sneakers unless they were working out. My style is definitely more classic, so sneakers are not something I wear routinely in New York City. Can you wear them? Absolutely. Will you stand out? Definitely not. So if sneakers are more your thing, definitely wear them. When I wear sneakers, I wear comfortable sneakers that I know will be good for all-day walking. Opt for Adidas Sambas or Veja Sneakers or Allbirds, all of which are comfortable and great for walking. Sneakers are coming back into more mainstream looks, even in Paris, so do what makes you feel comfortable.
You will most likely notice right off the top that the color black is prominent in this capsule. It always will be; this is the foundation for New York style. Whether you see a Broadway show or walk around town, you will notice women wearing black. When you see women who aren’t, there is a high chance that they aren’t from NYC. New Yorkers favor the color black over any other color. It works on so many levels because it is easy to wear and blend in to your wardrobe, but it also will hide any of the dirt and grime, especially when the weather turns and it rains.
These are my recommendations for your New York packing list when you are visiting NYC in Spring. One thing I did not include in this capsule is a light jacket, so you may want to pack one. New York City weather in Spring is mostly on the colder, damp side, but you will definitely have days when a warm front moves through for a day or two. Should you see in the weather report before your trip that the temperature will be a bit warmer, add a denim jacket, a lightweight trench coat or a cropped trench coat to your packing list. Layers can always be removed. And with all the walking you do, you may burn up a little sweat.
What to Wear | The Tops
A lady jacket is always a great option because it can be dressed up or down and makes for a great top layer that can easily be taken off if you get warm. A cashmere sweater is a must as it is lightweight but always adds warmth. You can wear this alone or layered, depending on the weather and your preference. A striped sweater adds some interest but still sticks to darker tones. A cardigan sweater is another great option for layering your looks. Choose a neutral color or opt for black, which you will see everywhere in New York. New York fashion relies heavily on the color black. Finally, a turtleneck is always a good choice. It will keep your neck warm without wearing or adding a scarf.
A silk blouse is a great choice for dressier occasions, such as visiting a nice restaurant or seeing a Broadway show. Button-down shirts are always in my suitcase. They are super versatile and a great choice for classic styles and act as a great light layer. The one I picked this month has a dark, plaid print that gives it a little more interest than just a solid color. Wear this alone, with a tee underneath, or add a sweater. A graphic tee is always a great top to pack, wear alone or under a cardigan or blazer for an effortless, chic look. And I never leave home without packing a blazer, which for me is the holy grail of any woman’s wardrobe. Blazers are one of the most versatile pieces- they can be styled with a blouse, a tee, a lightweight sweater, or worn alone and buttoned up. It can also be worn alone as a light jacket if the weather permits.
Shop the tops
What to Wear in New York in Spring | The Pants
Denim is making a huge comeback over the last year or so and will continue on the trend bus. I am a huge fan of denim and prefer to invest in good quality denim. Whichever your preference, choose darker denim washes. You will not see true New Yorkers wearing light denim when the weather is still cold and damp. And a light wash denim is never a good choice for evenings out. Darker wash or black wash denim will be your best friend in New York. Choose a straight-leg or wide-leg pair of jeans that is comfortable to wear multiple times throughout your trip. Add a pair of dark trousers, and if you want something a little edgier, leather pants are front and center in New York fashion.
Pro-tip: If you are planning reservations at any restaurants, always check the dress code guidelines before packing. Some restaurants in NYC have strict dress codes and will not permit denim jeans.
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What to Wear | The Outerwear + Dress
This one is pretty straightforward. You will still need to wear a warm coat while in NYC at this time of year. A mid-length or long wool coat easily lends itself to being dressed up or down. Leopard plays a role in NYC fashion and adds some interest to all black outfits. Whichever you choose, make sure it can work with multiple outfits. Again, this is why sticking to dark colors makes sense. It is so much easier to pack this way. A trench coat is another great option, especially if you have one with a removable lining. NYC weather can be all over the place in early to mid-spring.
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What to Wear in New York in Spring | The Accessories
Leave your valuables at home. Oftentimes, when I am traveling, I bring costume jewelry with me. If you have statement pieces, like rings or necklaces, you can still wear them, but be wise about it. I always keep my hands in my pockets if I take public transportation or wear gloves. Luckily, at this time of year, necklaces and other jewelry will be well hidden under layers of clothing.
A mulberry silk scarf takes up virtually no room when you are packing and can elevate a sweater, top, or blouse from basic to wow. And I never leave home without a reversible belt in my bag. I preach this all the time. If you are buying a belt, look for reversible belts; they save you money and make it easier to travel. The only handbag you need in New York is a crossbody bag. Never wear a handbag on your shoulder. It is too easy to snatch. Never ever leave your purse open. Wear the bag in front of you and never behind. Pickpockets are notorious for “bumping” you to distract you while they have their hands in your open purse. Sadly, I see women with open handbags way too often. And you don’t want this to happen to you during your time visiting New York City.
A clutch with a strap is another great option for evenings out to restaurants, the theater, opera, symphony or ballet. I typically wear these small handbags underneath my coat on my shoulder, not visible to anyone. If I am taking a cab or Uber, I will use it as a clutch. I am not a fan of walking through the city with a clutch in my hand; it’s too easy of a target. Pack some sunglasses and a warm pair of gloves. I find my hands get cold in NYC. And I don’t always want them in my pocket.
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What to Wear | The Shoes
If I plan a long weekend in NYC, I typically pack three pairs of shoes – a ballet flat, loafer, and an evening shoe, usually a block heel. Comfortable flats are so important when visiting a walking city like New York. If you prefer boots, go for them. I love wearing Uggs in winter; many women wear them for warmth. As I said earlier, if a sneaker is a more comfortable walking shoe for you, certainly pack that. There are certainly rules for New York fashion, but they aren’t locked in stone. I find fashion in NYC to be more forgiving than, say Paris, where the “rules” seem a bit more formal. When it comes to shoes, wear what works for your feet when thinking about what to wear in New York. Comfortable walking shoes will be your best friend.
Shop the shoes
Now, it’s time to put all of this together and create some fabulous outfits that are classic and chic but equally comfortable for your time visiting New York in Spring.
What to Wear in New York in Spring | 12 Outfits
From the capsule packing list above, I have created these 12 looks to give you an idea of what yo wear in New York while you are there. All of these pieces are classic in style and items that you would have for years to come. Remember to priorate quality over quantity when shopping for your closet. This will help you save money in the long run, and put a bit more spending cash in your pocket for your visit to New York.
Keep in mind that you will need to add a coat where I have not; it will still be a bit chilly in New York in Spring, especially earlier on. Another option would be to add a cape, like this one.
What to Wear in New York | Outfits 1 – 4
What to Wear in New York | Outfits 5 – 8
What to Wear in New York | Outfits 9 -12
Each of these outfits prioritizes comfort while still looking chic and having a slight edginess that epitomizes the New York fashion. It is key to understand the culture, especially if it will be your first time there. I find so many women on social media and blog posts sharing what to wear who clearly have no idea. So as a side tip, when traveling to an unfamiliar locale, look for inspiration from bloggers who have lived somewhere or are still living there. The last thing you want to do in NYC is stand out as a tourist.
I hope this helps with your packing and figuring out what to wear in New York in Spring. If you have any questions, please leave them below and I will do my best to respond. I am happy to answer any questions you have about what to wear in New York or about NYC in general.
Wishing you a fabulous time in a fabulous city!
