New York City is world famous for being “the city that never sleeps,” but it’s also the capital of American finance and fashion. If you’re visiting from out of town, you may want to kick your wardrobe up a notch. Of course, much of your clothing selection will depend on what time of year you visit. Most people walking the streets of the Big Apple are dressed well year round, despite the occasional extreme weather. Above all, the important thing is to pack just enough for your needs while leaving superfluous items at home.
Step 1
Start checking the 10-day weather forecast about a week before your intended travel dates. This way, you’ll get a reasonable idea of upcoming temperature changes or storms in the Northeast region. NYC winters are typically cold and wet, with occasional blizzard-like conditions between December and February. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures in the 90s during July and August.
Step 2
Pack some “business casual” clothing, as well as evening wear, which will be suitable for most restaurants or other venues. Choose lightweight, breathable materials during the summer months. Women should pack a little black dress, which is appropriate anywhere for evenings out. Men ought to pack an all-purpose dressy jacket and an elegant silk tie; these will also serve pretty much anywhere. Always pack suits in a garment bag to avoid excessive wrinkles and misshapen garments.
Step 3
Take along some comfortable, casual clothes to blend into the New York City scene. While it may not seem necessary to integrate with the locals, doing so will make you less of a target for pickpockets and scam artists. Looking like a local will work to your advantage. Dark-colored jeans or cords with button-down shirts and leather loafers are perfect for autumn. Women can choose to wear skirts or dresses, if they desire, but these are not often seen in colder months. Choose a sweater set with nice pants, if it’s chilly outside. Avoid wearing anything with an elastic waistband. Leave your “mom” jeans, collegiate sweatshirts and white sneakers at home.
Step 4
Take a winter coat, thermal underwear, sweaters, boots, gloves, scarves and knit hats if you plan to visit NYC from late November to early March. Wear rubber-soled shoes to prevent slipping on snow or ice. Avoid winter white or pastel colors, since walking around the city can get dirty. When in doubt, choose black.
Step 5
Pack lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen for summer visits, as natural fibers will breathe in the heat. Pair your summer outfits with comfortable walking shoes or sandals. Remember black will hide dirt but absorb heat; light colors will show dirt but keep you cool. Avoid khaki, white denim, plaid, madras, seersucker, polka dots and floral prints, as these styles are not popular with New Yorkers. Men should not wear button-down Oxford shirts with short sleeves – only long sleeves. If you want to wear short sleeves, opt for a polo shirt in a solid color. Teenagers should avoid wearing baseball caps with curled brims, high school sports clothing or New York souvenir T-shirts, all of which scream “tourist.”
Step 6
Bring a carry-on bag containing all necessities, just in case your luggage goes astray. These essentials may include a change of clothing, prescription medications, disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses, personal checks and any important documents.
Step 7
Don’t forget that you will be walking practically everywhere in NYC. Make sure that your feet are comfortable. Otherwise, at the end of each day, you’ll be exhausted and eager to return to your hotel. Take frequent breaks to rest your feet. Gel insoles are a fantastic investment for a trip to Gotham and won’t burn a hole in your wallet. Spending money on taxis, however, will blow your budget faster than a New York minute.
