NYC in the winter is a different beast. Not just because of the bone-chilling cold, but also because of the snowy conditions that can turn the streets into a frozen wonderland. Amidst the snowy streets of New York, a captivating winter fashion scene unfolds. Elegance takes center stage as residents gracefully navigate the city in stylish coats, accessorized with scarves and hats. Each step reflects a harmonious fusion of practicality and sophistication, transforming the wintry sidewalks into a runway of urban charm.
Thankfully, you can still look chic and put together a perfect outfit for any snowy day in NYC. Here are some super helpful tips.
1. The Parka
There’s one non-negotiable piece of clothing you’ll need to pack for any trip to New York in winter, and that is a warm coat. The key is to find a jacket that provides high performance against the cold and also looks stylish.
A parka is a fashion staple that does all of the above. It’s big, puffy, and very well-insulated, but still has a sophisticated look that makes it perfect for wearing to events like NYFW.
If you’re looking for a classic style, check out Levi’s faux fur-lined parka. It has extra faux fur around the hood that will keep you warm and add a chic touch to your outfit. It’s also rated to keep you warm in temperatures below 0°C. (The jacket also comes in khaki.)
2. The Puffer
Puffer jackets (or, as they’re more commonly called, down jackets) have skyrocketed up the fashion scale. What was once a winter essential for outdoor lovers has made it to the top of the stylistic heap thanks to both street style and a series of innovative reinterpretations by Moncler.
For instance, designer Sandy Liang has a cult following for her whimsical interpretations of girlhood and teamed a puffer vest with feminine lace slip dresses in her latest collection. Detachable capes and sashes, along with platform pumps in the ballet core microtrend, further emphasize this dreamy look.
And then there’s Junya Watanabe. Taking cues from Comme des Garçons’ mysterious goddess of outsized silhouettes, the fashion world’s hottest talent reinterpreted the classic puffer in various ways for the label’s Moncler Maya 70 collaboration.
3. The Sweater Dress
Fashionistas are obsessed with sweater dresses, and rightly so. These cozy knit pieces combine chic styling with snug comfort, making them ideal for the fall and winter weather in the city.
Choose from various colors, lengths, and textures to suit your style, with neutral shades offering versatility and pairing easily with other pieces in your closet. A black or tan sweater dress can be dressed up for special occasions by adding a belt and heels, or worn casually with sneakers and a jacket when running errands or hanging out at home.
If you’re looking for a trendy but timeless piece, go for a mini-length sweater dress with subtle puff sleeves. This option from Old Navy is made with inclusive sizing, including XS and 4X, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit.
4. The Boots
No winter wardrobe is complete without a trusty pair of boots. Sneakers are a great option for warm days, but boots will keep you dry and comfy when trudging through snow, slushy puddles, or ice.
This season’s fashion week showcased many creative takes on footwear. From Collina Strada’s playful presentation of models-turned-animals to Dion Lee’s edgy club-kid looks, designers challenged convention with transformative styles.
While the runway shows provided plenty of inspiration, street style also gave a nod to classic winter staples. TZR Editor-in-Chief Kathy Lee layered her multicolor coat over a tan-tailored look, while a pair of brown leather lug boots added a sophisticated touch.
5. The Accessories
Stylish winter hats are a fashion staple in NYC. They keep your head warm, look extremely cool, and also add a touch of personality to your look. This bestselling hat style on Amazon has over 32K positive reviews and is perfect for your winter trip to New York.
A pair of gloves is a great addition to any cold-weather outfit in NYC. They are super practical for when you are walking around in the city, as they protect your hands from harsh winds and the icy puddles that tend to be everywhere in the city (yeah, those nasty, frigid AF, slush-filled puddles where you inevitably have to trample through). These glove styles are touchscreen-friendly, so you can still use your phone while wearing them.