What I Wore in New York at Christmas

 

After sharing our New York trip — from the big Christmas moments to the planning tips — it felt right to finish with something a little lighter. New York at Christmas is magical, but it’s also cold, busy, and involves a lot of walking, so what you wear really matters.

 

This isn’t a “perfect outfits” post. It’s a round-up of what I actually wore, what kept me warm, and the pieces I’d pack again in a heartbeat.

 

 

What I Wore in New York at Christmas

 

 

1. Layers, always

Layering was everything. I lived in a base of long-sleeve tops, leggings and lightweight knits, topped with a proper coat that could handle long days outside. Being able to add or remove layers as we ducked in and out of shops, cafés, and subway stations made all the difference. And let’s not forget thermal socks, both comfortable and warm.

 

 

2. The coats that did the heavy lifting

A good coat is non-negotiable in December (or 3 in my case). A long, tailored style that worked with everything for the brighter and warmer days, a padded coat with a hood that kept the chill out during early mornings and late nights. And lastly a wool pea coat, a little style whilst keeping me warm. Having the choice of coats, meant I didn’t have to think too hard about the rest of my outfit – once the coat was on, I was set.

 

 

3. Comfortable bottoms for long days

This trip was all about comfort with a splash of style. I alternated between:

Wide-leg trousers, Jeans and the occasional Sequins on slightly milder days.

Everything needed to work for walking miles, climbing stairs, and standing around at games or observation decks.

 

 

4. Footwear that could cope

If there’s one thing not to compromise on, it’s shoes. I had a surprise when we were there so I would definitely pack options. I travelled in my Sambas which were a great shoe to switch to when we were local. And I packed:

My Salomon’s for everyday exploring – I mainly wore these and I am so glad, they were comfy and warm unlike my Grensons, which are usually incredibly comfortable but 32,000 steps didn’t work.

 

 

 

5. Accessories that mattered

Small things made a big difference:

A scarf and hat that doubled as extra warmth and often added a pop of colour to an outfit. Gloves for early mornings and night walks and a crossbody bag that left my hands free and felt easier and safer than a backpack. Sunglasses for those famous bright blue skies and sunshine filled days in December and a phone necklace for that extra layer of protection.

 

 

 

6. What I’d pack again (and what I’d skip)

I’d pack every warm layer again — and maybe even one more knit. If I were doing it again, I’d skip buying hand and feet warmers, extra warm thermals (including socks) and stick to medium warmth. New York at Christmas was cold, as low as -8 but with a good coat, hats, scarfs & gloves all will be well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

New York style at Christmas is practical first, cosy second, and pulled together (which for me included sequins) without trying too hard. If you’re warm and comfortable, everything else falls into place.

And with that, this little New York series comes to an end — one we’ll be talking about for years to come.

 

 

What I Wore in New York at Christmas