Welcome to Word on the Street, a quarterly series in which one editor takes to the streets of New York City to snap her favorite fashion moments and shop them out just for you.
If you've ever set foot in New York City, you know it's an amalgamation of eclectic personalities and interesting outfits to match. I never have to worry about being over or underdressed—there will always be someone wearing a more unique outfit. That's what makes New York such an incredible fashion city. You can find inspiration everywhere, no matter your personal style. Last week, while out and about, I sought out early adopters of 2025 denim trends. Everywhere from Carroll Gardens to Lincoln Square, I spotted three key styles: overalls, barrel-leg jeans, and dark-wash jeans. I witnessed these pieces styled in various ways, but no one was doing it better than my fellow editor, Aniyah Morinia in her Free People denim. Inspired by the brand's bold, experimental, and on-trend collections, Aniyah has made Free People a staple in her New York wardrobe. Keep reading to shop her three everyday looks, all featuring key denim trends for 2025.
New York street style is all about taking risks and expressing yourself. What about this outfit represents your personal style?
Aniyah Morinia: Living in New York City means constantly being inspired by people on the street, on the subway, and at the office, so I'm always looking for ways to experiment with my wardrobe. Winter dressing tends to lean more dark and moody, but I always make sure to bring some color into the mix. This oversized Printed Cotton Candy Puffer is the definition of a statement jacket. It channels that OG paisley print that Free People does so well. I styled it with a pair of barrel-leg overalls and it ended up being a bolder look that still felt like me! I can always rely on denim to help me return to myself. I love the youthfulness of overalls and the playfulness of the puffer.
I love how you dressed up the denim in this look. What's your styling secret?
I find myself taking it up a notch whenever I'm headed to SoHo. I'm pulling out all the stops with a statement jacket that will definitely garner compliments. Aside from how extra this coat is, the taupe barrel jeans really set this outfit in motion. This controversial style began trending in the latter half of 2023 and has become a closet staple for fashion people ever since. I'm not ashamed to admit that I own these Free People jeans in four different washes. Dressing on-trend this spring starts with these jeans.
Like many New Yorkers, your style gives off a comfortable, yet cool vibe. How does picking the right pair of jeans help you achieve that?
What I love about a good pair of jeans is that the wash can determine how casual or formal your outfit is. This medium-to-dark wash alone elevates my look, and when paired with this longline trench, it looks like I mean business even with the playful stripes I'm sporting. The straight leg hits my ankle boots at the perfect place, and this slouchier fit is a trend that's sticking around for 2025.
