What to Wear in New York in the Winter

Earlier this winter, I was lucky enough to visit New York City for a quick work trip. I always love going to Manhattan but there’s something about being there during this time of year that feels particularly special.

Whether you’ve been to NYC before or you’re planning your first trip, I know firsthand that figuring out what to pack can be a challenge. The good news is that if you aren’t sure what to wear in New York in the winter, then you’re in the right place.

Between so many activities and different vibes to dress for, it can be overwhelming to narrow down your packing list to just a handful of pieces that will actually fit inside your luggage. Add in the challenge of dressing for cold (and potentially snowy) weather, and things just get harder.

Here, I’m sharing the ultimate guide for what to wear in New York in the winter. I’ve even added an outfit that I wore on the plane as well as again during my trip.

I hope these ideas help you nail down your ideal packing list so you can stress less about what you’ll wear and focus more on having fun!

What to Wear in New York in Winter

Faux Fur Jacket + Knit Top + Metallic Pants

If there’s one piece that can instantly add a lot of personality to an outfit, I’d argue that it’s a faux fur coat. This outfit was so much fun to put together and I think it’s the perfect mix of feminine and fun.

While this exact fur jacket is sold out, I linked a couple of similar options below. The combo of the fur and the metallic pants creates so much visual interest and texture play. I’d recommend this look if you’re heading to a happy hour or on a girls night out in the city.

Knit Dress + Wool Coat + Slingback Heels

This knit sweater dress was such a special find—it’s so comfortable yet looks so chic with just about anything. I love the way it almost looks like two separate pieces.

Because the weather is so cool in New York City in the winter, I slipped into this wrap coat to add some extra warmth. I also think this coat or this one would look equally as cute.

To accessorize, I went with this basic pair of slingback heels (which are such a great closet staple and an attainable price point) and this fun bag and pair of sunnies. If you like the look of the sunglasses I’m wearing but are looking for a more affordable option, these are a good dupe.

Jeans + Sweater + Wool Coat + Ballet Flats

If you want to replicate the look above but the weather is too chilly for you to wear a dress, opt for a pair of denim instead. When I went out at night in NYC, this was a good go-to outfit.

I’m a big fan of Agolde jeans and have loved this baggy pair so much. I think they look so on-trend when styled with ballet flats, a classic sweater, and a cozy coat.

The exact v-neck sweater I’m wearing is low in stock, but this one and this one are both similar.

Cardigan + Trousers + Loafers

I absolutely love a matching set that not only can be worn together (as intended) but can also be mixed and matched with other pieces in your closet. This trouser and cardigan set fits that criteria.

Trousers are the ideal pant choice when you want to switch up your usual denim look. These are made with a knit material and they also have an elastic waistband so they’re super comfortable to wear for longer periods of time. In fact, I wore this outfit on the plane to NYC!

I love styling a fall or winter look with a trench coat since it’s more unexpected and less common to see than traditional wool coats. I finished this outfit off with a pair of Gucci loafers (here’s another cute option), a pair of aviator sunglasses, and my beloved Loewe tote bag that I purchased during a trip to Paris.

I also added some gold jewelry, like these heart earrings and this charm necklace to give things an even more feminine feel.

Wide Leg Pants + Sweater + Scarf + Beanie

Just like trousers, wide leg pants offer a stylish way to add variation to your outfits (rather than wearing jeans every day.) I love this pair, and they’re currently on sale at Revolve.

Throw on a button-down cardigan, like this find or this one (which is under $80) and then layer with some tried-and-true winter accessories, like a knit beanie and a scarf.

One tip I’d recommend is that you reach for an oversized scarf, which can double up as a little blanket when you’re traveling. Big scarves are also ideal when visiting somewhere that’s cold because they provide more fabric for you to snuggle up with. It doesn’t hurt that they look cute—a win-win!

Which winter NYC outfit is your favorite? Let me know in the comment section below!