While I am a true California girl at heart, I’ve spent a fair amount of time in New York City. I lived there for over a year after I graduated from college and I travel back East often to visit my best friend who still lives in NYC. I have lived through two snowy winters in New York City and visited for a handful of holiday Christmas seasons. There’s nothing like Christmas in New York City!

When you’re at the beginning stages of planning a winter trip to New York City, you’re probably wondering what kind of clothes you should be packing in your suitcase. In this blog post I will give some practical yet still stylish winter wardrobe suggestions that will make you look and feel like a true New Yorker.

Winter Weather in New York City

In New York City they have four true seasons with hot summers, fall with colorful foliage, snowy winters and blossoms in the spring. The temperatures start to drop in October and average around 44 degrees by December. The coldest month of the year in NYC is January where you can expect the temperatures to be as low as the 20s degrees Fahrenheit.

Snow days are also a real possibility when you’re visiting NYC in the winter. Make sure you’re diligently checking the weather forecasts and making sure your footwear is snow-proof. You’ll also need an extra heavy puffer jacket or wool coat to keep you warm while you’re out exploring the city.

New York City is the Best Place to Wear Luxury Designer Styles

The streets of Manhattan and Brooklyn are basically like real-life fashion runways where you can strut your stuff in your best designer clothes. If you have luxury boots, jackets, scarves or dark leather handbags sitting in the back of your closet, now is the time to dust them off and sport them out in public.

New York Fashion Week takes place in the winter month of February and many fashion lovers flock to the city at this time. The NYC fashion street style game is strong and you’ll see many fashionistas adorned in trendy garbs. Some of my favorite brands to spot are Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Balmain and Versace.

Winter Capsule Collection for New York City

Building a destination themed capsule collection is the best way to avoid overpacking. This is especially important when you will be needing heavy and bulky items to keep warm in cold weather. Save time and suitcase space by packing items that can be worn together in mix and match ensembles.

One of these items should be a “statement style piece” that is extra special and sets the vibe for your vacation style. This will probably be your favorite luxury designer clothing or accessory.

What to pack for your winter trip to NYC:

One heavy and warm coat - Preferably a style that can go from day to night such as a moto, peacoat or trench style. Make sure it’s warm enough to combat low temperatures in the 20s.
One pullover sweater - This sweater should be light but warm such as a cashmere blend. You’ll be layering this under your coat but over your tee or tank.
One pair of jeans - Make sure these jeans are tried and true comfortable so you’re not struggling with the fit while on vacation.
One Skirt - Mix up the bottom half of your wardrobe with a skirt. The length is totally up to you - mini, midi or max works.
One versatile dress - You want to have a special dress for going out to a nice restaurant or to see a show. You also want to be able to wear it out during the daytime with your sweater and boots. Get more mileage out of your clothes by selecting fabrics and prints that easy go from hanging out at brunch to fine dinning in the evening.
Women’s Boots - You will be doing a lot of walking around the city so make sure the boots you pack will not give you blisters. They should also be slightly waterproof for slushy snow or rainy weather.
Two Lightweight Tops - This is where you can add a fun pop of color or graphic prints. Make sure they pair well with your jeans and skirts.
Warm Tights - They key to being able to wear dresses and skirts during the very cold winter months is by having warm stockings on underneath.