When it comes to preparing for tropical or beachside trips, the packing process is on the easier side of the spectrum. All you really need are swimsuits, lightweight separates, and a few fun accessories, and you’re ready to go. When it comes to packing for the city, however, it can be a bit more of a challenge, especially in a place like New York that has so many different elements to take into consideration.
As someone who was born in New York, I’ve learned exactly what staple items are necessary to look put-together all while preparing you for anything. I’ve not only taken notes from fellow fashionable New Yorkers, but have learned from every experience. Below, I’ve rounded up the 20 staples that you should prioritize while packing for a stay in the city. From long walks in your favorite park to a reservation at the new hotspot, the items in this packing list will guarantee an A+ wardrobe.
Visiting NYC requires a quite a bit of walking, so a comfy pair of sneakers are a must. With the rise of athleisure and sportswear in fashion, a pair of sneakers will blend seamlessly into any outfit.
Many New Yorkers don’t like to wear open-toed sandals in the city, so closed shoes like mules are usually the go-to. They’re on-trend and comfortable and will still make any outfit look elevated.
There’s nothing worse than when it randomly rains in the city and you’re very much unprepared in the shoe department. Year-round, flat, chunky boots are my city savior.
Trench coats are the perfect option for transitional weather, and NYC weather can drastically change in a heartbeat, so it’s always important to have a light coat in your suitcase, even in the summer.
Not only does a leather jacket look incredibly cool, but it’s also the perfect jacket to keep on deck when you don’t want to pack something heavy in the cold. You can pair it over sweats, a dress, jeans—the options are endless.
It’s impossible to walk down the SoHo streets and not see at least three girls wearing a relaxed blazer. It’s chic, comfy, and elevated. What more do you want?
It’s always important to pack your basics for any trip, especially in New York. You can be walking through a breeze one day and then face the heat of the subway, so having underlayers is important.
Wear it on the flight, throw it over jeans, or tie it over your shoulder. Comfy knitwear is a necessity when packing.
Whether you’re on a beach vacation or making it to the city, a button-down must be on deck. I love layering it over a T-shirt and relaxed trousers.
Second-skin tops started as a trend in New York, but they have completely become a cool-girl staple.
As a jeans hoarder, I always find it hard to pick which pair to pack. I’ve learned that you can never go wrong with a straight-leg pair, as it works with most items compared to other denim silhouettes.
Yes, miniskirts are trending, but it’s still the staple the NYC fashion set has been relying on recently. Sometimes, jeans and trousers can get a little repetitive, so it’s nice to change it up with some skirt action.
The past few years have been a relaxed-trouser renaissance, and they’re not just for the office anymore. Every NYC fashion person owns a pair, so you know what to get if you want to blend in.
Cargo pants are another “trendy” item that has simply become an NYC staple. It’s a great addition to have if you’re looking to exude that casual-yet-cool vibe.
I love a good prairie-dress moment, especially how New Yorkers style theirs. They’re usually paired with cowboy boots or sneakers, making it different than the more cottagecore-esque look you might see in a city like L.A.
Wherever you’re going, a matching set is a must. You can wear it together or coordinate each piece separately. It’s like packing three different outfits in one.
I love a slip dress because of how versatile it is. Throw your comfy knit on top for the daytime and wear it as is for dinner. This dress has got you covered for any occasion.
Tiny bags may be cute for the ‘gram, but when you’re trudging around New York, a big bag to carry all your essentials is a priority. Luckily with the style being on-trend for 2022, there are a lot of options on the market.
Protect yourself from the sunlight in style.
Pack a few staple jewelry pieces and you’ll get wear out of them every day of your trip.
