Autumn in New York City: Outfit Ideas (& Helpful Packing List)

Post Overview: What to Wear in New York City in Fall

Fall is the best time to visit New York City (fighting words, I know — but I stand by them!). The biggest challenge of visiting NYC during autumn is preparing for the weather. November can be mild or bone chilling depending on the hour. To set you up for success, I wanted to provide a helpful packing list for anyone visiting New York City in the fall.

What to Pack for New York City in Fall (Meet the Author) | Antonina P. moved to New York City 8 years ago from the Pacific Northwest. She doesn’t miss the rain as much as she though she would. Sign up for her weekly newsletter for updates on daily life in NYC.

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Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +3 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.

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Visiting NYC in the Fall (Weather Report)

If helpful, here’s a roundup of the average temperatures/rainfall by month:

• September: highs 76°F | lows 61°F | average rainfall: 7 days
• October: highs 64°F | lows 50°F | average rainfall: 6 days
• November: highs 55°F | lows 42°F | average rainfall: 7 days

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What to Wear in New York During Fall (Outfit Ideas)

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Proper first layers (shirts & leggings)

If I can only offer you one bit of advice while packing for New York City in the fall, it’d be this: stock up on this incredible Heattech gear from Uniqlo. Every year, like clockwork, I swing by at the beginning of November to pick up a few tops and these dreamy leggings (at $30 a pop, you can’t beat the price).

Thermal layers are my biggest tip for anyone asking about what to wear in New York City in the fall. These items are single-handedly the reason I can stay outside as long as I do during the chilly autumn months.

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Quality Wool Coat

Packing for NYC in the fall doesn’t need to be complicated. Think of it this way — your coat is going to be the star of the show 80% of the time.

After years of living through cold autumns in NYC, I finally decided to invest in a high quality wool coat. Now, the price is hard to stomach, for sure. You might recall that I married for love and not money (my bad), so it took a while to build up to the purchase.

Did I cry a little at checkout? Sure, but I’ll have this coat for years to come (may even add it to my will, we’ll see). It’s truly an incredible piece and I wish I would have prioritized this purchase earlier. I find myself reaching for it on a daily basis.

But alas, it took me a while to save enough to invest in such a quality wool coat. Beforehand, I had this spectacular wool coat, which long-time readers will recognize because I wore it religiously for 6+ years (until my mom told me to donate it, ha).

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Pants, pants, (fun) pants!

When planning outfit ideas for New York City in the fall, I suggest adding some fun colors. There’s something about a colorful wardrobe that adds an instant dash of happiness during gray autumn days.

Don’t get me wrong, jeans are great! Heck, I picked up two pairs of these dark-wash jeans a few weeks ago. But, nothing beats corduroy for me.

And since we’re packing for fall in New York City, why not step up your fashion game a little and throw in a fun pair of trousers or plaid pants, like these.

Update: For those of you asking about the black jeans, my apologies! I forgot to link to them. Here they are!

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Cozy Sweaters

Thick sweaters might seem like the right move when packing for NYC in the fall, but that’s not always the case. I’ve learned that when packing sweaters, some strategy is required.

Too thick, and you’ll pay the price when you find yourself peeling off layers on a subway platform. Too thin, and you’ll feel instant regret when the wind blows seemingly freezing your bones stiff.

When thinking about what to wear in New York City in autumn, consider packing sweaters that are breathable and light — they make layering a breeze.

Speaking from personal experience, I’ve learned to purchase mostly cashmere and wool-blend sweaters. Long-time readers know that my most worn sweater is this gem, closely followed by this one (which I have in 2 colors).

At the end of the day, you know how your body deals with cold weather best so pack whatever feels right to you.

If helpful, here’s the exact sweaters I have on rotation in my wardrobe:

• Light cashmere sweater in navy
• My most complimented sweater

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Comfortable Winter Boots

If you remember anything from this little guide on what to wear in NYC, let it be this: your footwear is the key to success.

Seriously, comfortable footwear will either make or break your trip to NYC.

There is a lot of ground to cover when visiting New York City, and while the subway is a great way to get around you can still expect to clock in over 15,000 steps a day. If helpful, this is my go-to pair of boots.

I’ve had them for 4+ years and wear them almost daily (they’re that good). I also picked up a pair for my husband (when are they dolling out “best wife of the year” awards?) and have seen a few of our friends bought them as well. Everyone seems to love them.

You might enjoy reading: 10 Best Shoes for Walking Around New York City (By Season)

Oh, that reminds me, NYC is not the place to break in a new pair of shoes. Bring along a trusty pair you’re comfortable in, or break in your shoes at home (before flying out to NYC).

If you’re trying to look fashionable (while being comfortable!) I recommend these lovely boots. Likewise, these are also quite adorable!

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What to Pack for NYC in the Fall (Accessories)

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Wool Socks

Wool socks are my holy grail item when it comes to packing for New York in fall. They are comfortable, warm and offer enough padding (thanks to the thickness) so that my feet don’t hurt after a day of walking miles in heavy-duty boots.

Good luck catching me without these during fall in NYC.

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Gloves & Scarf

Part of fall’s allure is the ability to cozy up with a big sweater and warm accessories. I recommend packing a scarf and gloves that you can carry around in a tote until the chill warrants breaking them out.

I love wearing a big scarf that can be styled multiple ways, and am so grateful for it when a big gust of wind blows and my neck is protected.

As far as gloves go, I suggest anything with touch screen fingers that allows you to use your phone while staying covered up. You’ll find yourself reaching for both items when the sun sets and the autumn chill kicks in.

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Umbrella

You can never go wrong throwing an umbrella in to your suitcase. They take up very little space and are life savers when the unexpected (but very common) rain storm hits New York City.

And I’d say you can always just buy one when you’re out here, but chances are you won’t know you need it until you’re a victim. Not to mention the last-minute ones sold on the side of the road are usually poor quality.

Best to be prepared and bring one from home when packing for NYC in the fall.

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Sunglasses

Many folks make the mistake of retiring their sunglasses after summer, but I’m here to let you know NYC in the fall is full of sunny days. Since the majority of the sight-seeing is outdoors, I suggest packing a pair of sunglasses with you everywhere you go. The glares off the tall buildings or the reflection on the water can do a number on you if you’re not prepared.

Further reading: The Charming West Village in Autumn & 18 Breathtaking Spots for Fall Foliage in New York City.

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What are the best materials to wear in New York City in fall?

• Flannel: Nothing screams autumn more than a cozy flannel and bulky boots. Packing for fall in NYC doesn’t need to be difficult since flannels are a great material, easy for layering.
• Wool: The material is tried and true and has been used for thousands of years. Made from sheep hair, wool holds heat and is somewhat resistant to water.
• Fleece: Fleece was created to replicate the benefits of wool. The material is light weight and inexpensive but still keeps you warm.
• Cashmere: Cashmere is considered to be luxurious and softer than traditional wool. Although not quite as warm as wool, it’s a popular light-weight material used in sweaters and scarves.
• Silk: Silk is one of the best materials to wear in New York in the fall because of how tightly woven the fabric is when created. This acts like an insulator and keeps your body heat trapped in the fabric.
• Down: Down serves as both insulation and padding and is commonly found in winter coats. Whether you get a coat with synthetic feather or natural feathers, down is some of the best material to keep you warm.

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Autumn in New York City (Packing List Tips)

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Consider the weight of your outerwear

Depending on which month you’re visiting New York City packing a heavy coat might not even be necessary. September to mid-October you can get by with a light jacket or sweater.

But if you get cold easily and don’t want to leave the coat at home, I hear ya! The only thing I want you to consider is the weight of your outerwear.

Since New York City is ripe for exploring you’ll be doing a lot of walking (aka sweating) — lugging around a heavy coat isn’t always ideal.

Additionally, the subway is the easiest way to get around the city and during fall some subway platforms can get as hot as 100ºF.

Local’s tip: Leave the heavy coat at home, instead pack a shacket (it’s a real thing, look it up), a vest or a packable coat that’s easy to throw in a bag and carry around.

When deciding what to pack for NYC in fall, consider the specific month you’re visiting

The weather in September and the weather in November are very different. When deciding what to pack for NYC in the fall, make sure to check the weather report and plan accordingly.

In the earlier months of fall you’re able to get away with packing a lot less because the temperatures are still comfortable. Late November brings more of a chill in preparation for winter.

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What to Wear in New York in Fall (Post Summary)

Here’s a quick list of what to wear in NYC in the fall.

1. Overcoat
2. Jeans + Fun Pants
3. Heavy Duty Boots
4. Cozy Sweaters
5. Vest
6. Sweater Dress
7. Wool Socks
8. Sneakers
9. Gloves & Scarf
10. Beanie or Baseball Cap
11. Backpack
12. Umbrella
13. Sunglasses
14. Headphones
15. Hand Sanitizer 
16. Bandaids
17. Chapstick + Lotion
18. Phone Charger 
19. Cash 

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Love New York City in the Fall? Us too!

You might find these posts helpful too:

• 35+ Festive Fall Things to Do in New York City (The Best Season to Visit!)
• 15 Epic Thanksgiving Activities in New York City 2023 (Helpful Local’s Guide)
• 10 Spooky Spots for Halloween Decorations in New York City
• 12+ Epic Spots to See Fall Foliage in Central Park

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And there you have it! That is everything you need to know about what to wear in New York in fall. We hope you found this list helpful and now you can comfortably enjoy exploring NYC in autumn.

Until next time, cheers!

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