One of my favorite parts of New York as a fashion editor is the constant outfit inspiration courtesy of the Manhattan sidewalks. A brief walk through Downtown can tell you what people will be wearing in six months, the freshest way to style your old clothes, and the new staple you didn’t know you needed in a mere 20 minutes. This aspirational and effortless yet inspired dressing is the reason I’ve turned to New Yorkers for what trends they’ll be guaranteed to indulge in 2023.
This year’s fashion was defined by a resurgence of going-out clothes, an onslaught of Y2K throwback fashion, and an increased focus on the capsule wardrobe, among other trends. While I expect those themes to carry over into the New Year, there are a few buzzy trends worth noting as you fill up your 2023 cart.
After polling my New York friends and gathering my observations around the city, I’ve rounded up a trend-based shopping list below that will have you feeling cosmopolitan in an instant.
Per the runways and the city sidewalks, parachute pants are making their return from the MC Hammer era. Whether it be a low-slung nylon pair à la Hailey Bieber or billowing satin cargo pants, the oversize style is a guaranteed trend for 2023. Due to the loose fit, opt for a more tailored silhouette on top and pair with heels.
A personal favorite trend for 2023 is this sophisticated pinstripe print. All of my fashion editor friends have been starting to update their classic suiting with this chic pattern. Entrenched in vintage menswear, this pattern is adjacent to other trending menswear-inspired pieces including neckties, loafers, and baseball caps.
The first cousin to the currently trending ballet flat is the ultra-refined Mary Jane. This elegant shoe is perfectly paired with a mid-calf sock or a sheer pair of tights. Not only is this shoe smart and sophisticated, but it also offers undeniable comfort, which makes it a shoe-in for New Yorkers.
Few trends say early aughts like the denim midi skirt. This longline jean skirt has chic new life in 2023, and the New York fashion set is quickly catching on. Beloved New York brands such as The Row and Khaite are aligned with their own designer versions of the trend.
Consider this the 2023 update to your choice shoulder bag, a ’90s trend that made its return in 2022. A slew of major designers, including Louis Vuitton, Loewe, Valentino, and Coach, have a version of this shape. Not only does this circular bag fit perfectly under your arm, but it also offers a practical amount of storage.
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