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Sure, the runways set the trends for every season, but the street style spotted in New York City during the springtime is equally as telling. The return of the warm weather has New York women test driving their spring styling skills.
Of course, there are looks across the spectrum – ranging from classic pieces to trends that delights all types of spectators- from other New Yorkers to tourists.
As a native New Yorker, I embody the minimalistic aesthetic during the warmer months – think lots of white trousers, flowy white shirts and ballet flats.
New York, the hub of style and culture, is known for its trendy fashion looks. If you are planning a New York City trip, there is no reason to be intimidated by the fashion.
Take your aesthetic and form a look that combines your personal style and taste.
If you are visiting during the month of March, April, or May, you will certainly be walking. You must be dressed for a variety of situations and temperatures, with comfortable shoes that will withstand long distances.
It is a wonderful time of year to visit, but the temperatures and weather can be unpredictable.
Scroll below for inspo on what to wear in NYC in March, April or May.
There’s always room in your wardrobe for timeless classics, and a trench coat and dark wash jeans reign supreme every spring in New York City.
This no-fail combination is perfect for a light stroll through Central Park or on the Brooklyn Bridge. Swap out the mules for a pair of stylish sneakers for walks around the Big Apple.
More than just a warm weather look, classic accessories like two-tone ballet flats and a Hermes Birkin top off a springtime NYC outfit, and it is exactly what to wear in NYC in March.
The result is sleek and fluid, with a dose of femininity.
There is an easy glamour found in the simple, knitted midi dress.
Their comfort level is obvious, but these knit dresses also double as party wear for a happy hour or a Broadway show. The knit dress’s charm lies in its easy one-step uniform.
Opt for brightly colored sandals to add a springtime charm to the look.
During the beginning of spring, there seems to be one outfit formula that emerges as the ensemble du jour. It is the humble blazer-and-jeans look that takes the spotlight on the streets during the warmer days in NYC.
A deceptively simple beige-blazer-and-blue-jeans look is your best bet for a go-to springtime look. Whether it be the slouchy silhouette, statement sunglasses, or a chic structured bag, the look feels undeniably fresh.
It is always a good idea to go back to the basics. And when it comes to the classics, nothing is as foundational in a closet as a plain, but perfect white tee.
For a warm spring day, opt for a cropped version with a head-to-toe tonal jeans combination. For maximum style with minimal effort, gold accessories add a luxe feel to the spring outfit. On those unexpectedly chilly days, grab a light jacket or leather jacket.
The classic “Canadian tuxedo” is the fashion-lovers’ uniform of choice and it always a great option for an easy springtime option. Double denim is the elevated version of the co-ord set, as it is comfortable and super quick to style.
The trick is to wear slightly different but complementary colors and textures, giving it a tonal, head-to-toe cohesion. Opt for bright high heels to add an eye-popping finish.
The denim-on-denim style takes a chic turn courtesy of a relaxed denim blazer and miniskirt look. A blazer and miniskirt combination is casual, yet cool dressing. A denim miniskirt is perfect for those with a more feminine approach to dressing.
Even better, the outfit combination can be just as easily dressed up with sandals or boots for the colder days.
A little black dress is a must for any wardrobe, whether it is a midi or tube top, the dress is a necessary piece regardless of weather conditions. The structure of a tube top dress defies gravity and sits on the body perfectly.
A black tube dress undoubtedly serves as a silhouette that is hard to get wrong
Something feminine and chic, such as a tube dress, pairs nicely with heavier accessories, like chunky sneakers, for a perfect study in contrast.
There is something incredibly stylish about going strapless with a tube top dress for the spring.
A popular favorite from the 2000s—in now back on everyone’s sartorial radar. With tube dressing, the fabric clings and outlines and is flattering on all women.
An elevated take on this style will help you nail the memo for your New York packing list. A black blazer or a light sweater over the shoulder are two essentials for the seasonal transition.
A bright white poplin is an essential. Like any closet classic, it’s likely that you already own a button-up or two. There are plenty of ways to style the classic piece, especially for the spring months.
No pants are necessary to style the capsule wardrobe staple. Besides being an outer layer, it functions as a layering piece with an oversized blazer. The best way to finish off the look is with chunky loafers or comfortable walking shoes.
Hemlines clearly rise during the warmer months. The miniskirt is the ultimate warm weather style staple. The miniskirt can be paired with virtually any kind of top. For a March trip, a cardigan is needed for those colder days.
The mini shows skin and makes any ensemble feel a little more sexy. When using a minimalist brown palette, pair it with a funky blouse pattern to add a pop of color.
If stepping out in a high hemline is enough of a statement itself, then start simple and create a modest outfit around a miniskirt.
For an Upper East Side take on the miniskirt, add a flowy preppy striped top to add an elevated feel. For the illusion of even longer legs, wear shoes coordinated in the same hue.
The weather forecast in NYC is quite unpredictable. There are those warm days, and at times mild days grace the streets of New York City. It is a battle that leaves New Yorkers baffled about the appropriate dress code.
For those days, add a mix of both. Grab the winter season favorite – leather pants and pair it with a linen blazer. Instead of styling the pants in a rocker-inspired way, give the pants a dressier twist, one that falls in line with a polished aesthetic.
Changing up the texture and material brings tension to the look, and creates a streamlined finish.