What to Wear When Visiting New York City (2024)

New York, the hub of style and culture, is known for its trendy fashion looks. If you're planning on visiting, that can feel intimidating. But don't worry, there’s no one way to “dress like a New Yorker." It’s all about taking your aesthetic and forming a look that combines self-expression with surprise. New York style could mean pairing Gap denim with a Gucci bag, or it could mean dressing head-to-toe in the brightest-colored outfit imaginable. The city's street style is a category all on its own, with entire Instagram accounts devoted to capturing the most inventive looks.

So, if you’re hoping to blend in by standing out—which is how lots of stylish people in New York dress—there are lots of ways to do it that blend comfort with fashion. Not to mention, it's a distinctly walkable city, which means dressing for a variety of situations and temperatures, with comfortable footwear that won’t pinch your feet. You don't necessarily need to dress up in New York, particularly if you're spending the day walking and sightseeing, but it's totally achievable to have an eye-catching look without sacrificing comfort.

Keep scrolling for outfits you can wear in New York any day of the week.

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Try Tartan

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Tartan, which is a major fall trend, is getting a nice upgrade in more tailored pieces. If warmer plaid pants like these feel a bit casual, opt for contrast with a more fitted top. Don't ever skip the flat shoes when walking around the city, but fashion sneakers (or even flat loafers) make the look seem thoughtful and put-together.

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Go for the Tie

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Don't be afraid to try this trend and pair your best button-up with a thin black tie, especially if you're headed to an event or upscale dinner. If tailored pants feel too formal, give a maxi skirt a go. You can opt for some feminine touches (like these patent heels) for balance.

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Give It Some Red

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Expect to see a ton of red in the upcoming seasons. If you want to live the strawberry girl life, it's all about going bold. If it feels like a lot, go with neutral colors in the accessories and outerwear. Something feminine and chic pairs nicely with heavier accessories, like this lug boot, for a perfect study in contrast.

How to Wear Red, According to InStyle Editors

Opt for Khakis

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Wide-leg pants, the successor to skinny jeans, aren't going anywhere anytime soon. If you feel like your look needs some extra oomph, wide khakis give a casual workwear vibe. They can easily skew more formal with a button-up or more relaxed with an oversized denim shirt or shacket.

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Do Sweat the Details

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If you're not one to lean in 100% with a bright color, there are tons of ways to bring red (or other bright hues) into your wardrobe. Part of a cohesive look is in the details, as with a splash of red on the nails and toenails that match with red lipstick. It's the perfect way to elevate an otherwise basic outfit.

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Shorts All Day

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If you're visiting during transitional weather, shorts can help you feel cooler while still feeling stylish—especially if you're normally a skirt person. A long-sleeve on top can help if the weather's getting a bit brisk, and a high heel in a matching color elevates it from sporty to chic.

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Bring Lots of Denim

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Trust us, the Canadian tuxedo does not have to look silly. The trick is to wear slightly different but complementary colors and textures, giving it a tonal, head-to-toe cohesion. As seen here, a relaxed fit throughout makes the whole thing feel more like a jumpsuit, with a tiny but fabulous bag to round it out.

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Go Monochrome

Going all out with a single color can absolutely shout "fashion," but instead of the cliche all-black New York look, why not try something in another neutral like olive or brown? Changing up the texture and material brings tension to the look, and picking a skirt that goes over knee-length boots helps draw the eye all the way down.

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Pick Lime

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Known in fashion circles as "olive oil green," this light, creamy green shade is another trendy color that also happens to be a perfect pop of color on a neutral outfit. The green should be the standout, so pair it with white pants or light denim to match the lightness without detracting from its vibrancy.

Why Are Celebs So Obsessed With This Shade of Green?

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Get Fuzzy

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When the weather dips below 50, a snuggly sweater is always a good choice. Plus, fuzzy teddy bear vibes are on trend (how convenient!). To look more "cozy" and less "teddy bear," go with a more classic shape and pattern. The pop of color can be in the accessories, like these complementary red shoes.

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Bring The Bag

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If you've got an upscale bag that you're just dying to use, this is that moment. What's great about a standout piece is that it'll work in different contexts, meaning a single bag can work for shopping, dinner, meetings, and everything in between. Give the bag its moment to shine by keeping everything else streamlined.

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Go Out in PJs

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The "pajama chic" look has been around for more than a moment, but it's still a surprising choice (and therefore perfect for New York) when paired with more tailored pieces. If going with a matching set feels like too much, opt for just a top or bottom. Here, the PJ bottoms work in place of denim or linen pants.

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Wear Your Loudest Coat

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When in doubt, break out that gorgeous patterned jacket hanging out in the back of your closet. A standout coat can elevate every outfit in addition to working as a transitional weather must-have. Here, it's a head-to-toe look, but it would work just as easily over all black, all white, or even denim.

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Be Daring

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If you're into tops that show a bit of skin, this is the perfect time to break them out for evening wear. You'll be in good company: a sliver of skin is still totally streetwear-appropriate. Showing a little skin isn't just fun and surprising: lower V-necks and scoop necks are also popular at the moment.

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Color Block It

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Okay, so maybe you don't have a pair of jeans with one tartan leg, but still. If you have a dress of two colors, or a shirt with a striking graphic design, this is the perfect time to bring it out. Everything else in this outfit feels classic and timeless, so the pop of color is truly that: a pop that feels surprising and counterintuitive.

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Layer Up

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Besides the obvious practical benefits of layering when the weather's going to shift throughout the day, layers give texture and dimensionality to a look. Here, a cardigan serves as the base layer to a long trench coat—a New York staple—and the white puffy slip-ons are walkable but still elevated from your basic sneaker.

12 Trench Coat Outfits You'll Want to Bookmark

What to Wear When Visiting New York City (2024)

FAQs

What should I pack for 4 days in New York? ›

Here's what to pack for New York in order to enjoy the city to its fullest.
  • A Comfortable Day Pack.
  • Reliable Walking Shoes.
  • The 2 Indispensable Layers.
  • A Good Old-Fashioned Paper Map.
  • A (Non-Cell Phone) Camera.
  • A Portable Charger.
  • Pack By Not Packing.
  • Don't Forget About Dressing Up.
Apr 18, 2024

Do I need to dress up for New York? ›

You don't necessarily need to dress up in New York, particularly if you're spending the day walking and sightseeing, but it's totally achievable to have an eye-catching look without sacrificing comfort. Keep scrolling for outfits you can wear in New York any day of the week.

What is New York casual dress code? ›

Casual Attire: Certain bars and clubs in NYC adopt a more relaxed approach to dress codes, allowing patrons to dress casually. This typically includes jeans, t-shirts, sneakers, and other comfortable yet presentable attire.

Is it OK to wear shorts in New York? ›

As long as you do not go to a meeting or a fancy dinner in a restaurant where you will look out of place, go for it. Do not let anyone tell you that you should not wear them or how to dress in NYC. Unless they buy the clothes for you its not their business what you wear or for that matter what anyone wears.

Should you carry a purse in New York? ›

Be particularly aware of your purse/wallet in crowded situations, such as rush hour trains and buses. If you are jostled in a crowd, be aware that a pickpocket might be responsible. Beware of arguments or commotions designed to distract you while your pocket or purse is being picked.

What is the best bag to walk around NYC? ›

Go for something like a fanny pack, belt bag, or sling bag for truly worry-free travel, or choose a crossbody bag or over-the-shoulder tote to elevate your style. As far as smaller accessories like wallets and card holders go, the more compact and lightweight, the better.

Do people dress up for dinner in NYC? ›

It really depends on where you're going. There really is no dress code. It may be dress to impress at home but here ,honestly no one cares what you wear. Some restaurants require men to wear jackets,which would prompt a lady to wear a dress but that will be stated on their websites..

Do people dress up for Broadway NYC? ›

There's no strict dress code to worry about, and that's part of the charm. You'll find the audience dressed in a spectrum of styles – some are in their best co*cktail attire, while others opt for a more relaxed jeans-and-tee look. This diversity in dress reflects the inclusive spirit of Broadway.

What to wear in New York to not look like a tourist? ›

Anything too slim or fitted (this includes skinny jeans) will mark you as not from here. Also, if you want to look really insider-y, she said, “throw your chunky oversize knit sweater over your coat instead of a scarf, and tuck your oversize tote under the arm, not on your shoulder.” Finally, don't be flashy.

How to dress like a tourist? ›

Dressing like a tourist is easy! A bright Hawaiian shirt is a classic look, but neon prints and souvenir t-shirts are also great shirt options. For bottoms, definitely go with khaki shorts or cargo shorts. Slip into a pair of white crew socks and strap your sandals over them to create an iconic tourist vibe.

What is dressy casual for a woman? ›

Dressy casual is the perfect blend of laid-back and formal. It's ideal for post-work socializing, nice dinners, or fundraisers. Navigating through the Dressy Casual terrain can be tricky, but it's all about a sophisticated touch to everyday wear. It's less about formality and more about looking well put together.

Are jeans OK for casual dress? ›

What pants/bottoms are acceptable to wear under the casual dress code? Jeans are acceptable under a casual dress code. However, jeans that are ripped or disheveled in appearance are not appropriate.

Do New Yorkers wear scarves? ›

Most New Yorkers also wear a scarf in the fall and winter, so up your style game with something cozy and cool, and don't forget to stay warm and dry with a pair of chukka boots.

Is it okay to wear shorts to Broadway? ›

Some people ask if it's ok to wear shorts to Broadway. While I personally never do, you will see people there in shorts, especially in the summer. It's honestly fine. If you opt to go with shorts, aim to keep them on the nicer side, and do keep in mind that theaters are kept very cool in the summer.

Are you allowed to wear shorts at Subway? ›

Shorts must be black in color and no longer than knee length. Fabric must be cotton, polyester, a cotton/polyester blend, or black denim. Stonewashed denim and denim colors other than black are NOT allowed. Shorts cannot be faded or contain inserts, studs, color stitching, lacing or other decorations.

How many dollars do you need for 4 days in New York? ›

Citing the fact that New York is the one of the most expensive cities in the world. It would cost you around 1500 USD ( this figure can fluctuate depends on where are staying hotel or rented apartments). PS : this is only leaving cost. if you like to parting out, shopping at Times Square bruh there will be no limit.

Should I bring a suitcase for a 4 day trip? ›

WHAT YOU SHOULD PACK ON YOUR 4-DAY TRIP. You must bring 1 suitcase + 1 optional carry-on item such as a backpack/purse. Keep in mind that the airlines charge a fee for a checked bag, each direction. Carry-on suitcases must meet TSA size restrictions.

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