I've Been in NYC, L.A., and CDMX This Month—6 Staples I Saw Everyone Wearing

I started off this month with a lot of travel. Though I'm based in New York, I spent the past few weeks on the road visiting friends in cities like Mexico City and Los Angeles. While these trips were just for fun and not necessarily for work, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't always keeping an eye out for the latest shopping tip, styling idea, or conversation-starter on the topic of fashion and shopping that could potentially lead to a story right here on Who What Wear. I can't help but make mental notes on what I observe people wearing wherever I go, and that definitely includes all three cities I've spent time in this month.

The overall aesthetic in all three destinations is diverse—people in NYC tend to dress in polished neutrals while L.A. folks have a more relaxed and casual vibe and the residents of CDMX lean funky—but I noticed a few key staples they all held in common. According to my observations, cool basics like big button-down shirts and leather trousers are popular picks in all three places. I saw each of the six items below styled in totally different ways depending on the city but the fact that they popped up all over tells me everyone agrees on them for spring. Keep scrolling to discover and shop them all.

Relaxed Denim

Not only did I spot plenty of relaxed-fit denim in all three cities, but the staple is one that I packed and wore myself on repeat. In NYC, most people styled their denim with blazers, trenches, and other polished outerwear while in Mexico City and L.A., both warmer climates, I noticed the jeans paired more often with items like sandals and pretty tops.

Big Button-Downs

I may be biased here since I've personally been backing these shirts as a trendy staple for spring, but it was validating to see that I'm not alone. Oversized button-downs are favored across all the three cities I've spent time in which points to how versatile and chic they are.

Leather Trousers

Leather separates may have once been considered a trend, but based on my travel observations, they're a full-blown staple. I spotted the coolest outfits with leather trousers whenever I went out at night, proving they're the going-out staple all over.

Flatform Sandals

I expected to see plenty of sandals in L.A. and CDMX, but overall I noticed the same theme: both cities' stylish residents are fans of chunky-soled and flatform sandals that add a little lift to their looks. Over in NY, I've spotted them briefly on warmer days this spring, indicating that they'll be well-loved once warmer weather really hits.

Slip Dresses (and Skirts)

If you ask me, every closet needs a great slip dress. You just can't top how versatile and timeless they are. Transcending seasons, climates, personal style, and trends, slip dresses (and slip skirts, too, for that matter) really work for everyone.

Modern Cowboy Boots

If there's one staple I spotted that's far less plain than the others, it's cowboy boots. I was surprised to see them be so universally beloved, but from the boutiques in Mexico City's stylish Roma Norte neighborhood to the flea markets in West Hollywood, cowboy boots with a modern twist popped up everywhere I looked. 

Up next, see the trends and basics that make up my personal spring capsule wardrobe.