Every trip back to New York is a treat. Simply put, New Yorkers' sartorial instincts are unrivalled. They're usually some of the first to adopt emerging trends, so any outing to a restaurant or Duane Reade is like interacting with a living mood board.
Recently, I went back to the city and couldn't help but notice how put-together everyone looked. Among the various pieces I observed on its dwellers, there seemed to be five standout staples that consistently popped up among the most stylish women. Of course, upon returning home, I immediately began looking for these to add to my very own wardrobe. The items in question range from fresh runway trends to edgier streetwear staples to tried-and-true foundational pieces. Essentially, they reveal how New York fashion is a grab bag of eclectic styles and tastes. For a full list of the real-life trends New Yorkers can't stop wearing, keep scrolling.
1. Leather Bomber Jackets
Leave it to New Yorkers to embrace one of the season's emerging trends before anyone else. If you think about it, the fascination makes sense. A leather bomber can toe the line between polished and casual, so it's the perfect topper to navigate a day out and about. The idea here is to go for a roomier fit, so think about sizing up to capture the NYC essence.
Shop the trend:
Trust The Frankie Shop to reinvest the humble bomber jacket.
This silhouette is hard to come by.
The colour! The fit!
This colour feels so luxe.
One of the best on the high-street.
2. Eye-Catching Sneakers
Walking is a necessity when you live in the city, so having shoes that are up for the task is essential. Trainers are the obvious suspect, but true to NYC style, its inhabitants don't just wear any type of sneakers. They're sneakers with cool colourways and designs that elicit a double take.
Shop the trend:
This colourway is a fashion follower favourite.
Combine form and function with these cool Asics.
We love a vintage inspired sneaker.
Monochromes go with everything.
The striking shape won me over.
3. Technical Maxi Skirts
Here's where I saw things get really interesting. A lot of the cool people I observed wore long skirts in technical materials like nylon ripstop and rigid poplin. It's a different take on the maxi-skirt trend that feels decidedly edgy and right on point for the city's chilly (and sometimes gloomy) weather.
Shop the trend:
This looks so good with chunky loafers.
Khaki is just as versatile as black.
This is high on my wish list.
Add denim onto the mix and you're on to a winner.
How good is this?
4. Carry-It-All Totes
New Yorkers are busy people, which partly explains why there's a cluster of people wearing backpacks and schlepping around bags on every block. The most stylish way to carry it all is in a big tote. Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato tote was a popular choice, but I also noticed plenty of minimal totes in a variety of leather finishes.
Shop the trend:
The blown up intercciato makes this instantly recognisable.
This comes in three chic shades. Take your pick.
This petrol blue hue is hard to come by.
The detachable pouch keeps your necessities to hand when the bag is full.
We think this mixed fabric tote will sell out quickly.
5. Sophisticated Neutral Trousers
While people in the UK love their denim, New Yorkers love their polished trousers. The piece can easily be dressed up or down depending on the coordinating accessories, and they maintain an elevated air without trying too hard.
Shop the trend:
Wide styles are incredibly chic.
The drape on these is impeccable.
This check felt pair is a real gem.
Trust & Other Stories to create expensive-looking tailoring.
The sharp pleats will elongate your silhouette.
Next up: We Went Street-Style Spotting in London - These 9 Outfits Impressed Us
This piece originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. and has since been updated.
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