It’s no secret that winters in New York City can be “a bit much,” so in an effort to make things easy on you, I’ve created a fool-proof NYC winter packing list from a local’s perspective. Longtime readers know that I’m not one for small talk, so let’s dive right in!
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 10 Best Neighborhoods for First Timers & 3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
What to Wear in New York City in Winter
(Table of Contents)
Step 1: Thermal Base Layers
If I can only offer you one bit of advice while packing for New York City in the winter, 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 (they sell out quickly, so grab them if they’re in stock).
However, if you’re really sensitive to the cold, you may want to consider these leggings instead (I wear them under my ski gear). I love having thin thermal essentials because layering them with a light sweater or a pair of jeans means I’m still able to dress fashionably and stay warm.
Pro-Tip: If you run cold, like me, picking up these little gems is a no-brainer when considering what to pack for New York in winter. I have a few boxes around the house for out of town visitors.
Step 2: Comfortable Sweaters
Thick sweaters might seem like the right move when packing for your winter trip to NYC, 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 winter, 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 (worth every penny).
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:
This sweater in navy
My most complimented sweater
Best Winter Coats for NYC
Quality Wool Coat
Packing for NYC in the winter 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 chilly winters in NYC, I finally decided to buy a high quality wool coat that looks stylish and doesn’t break the bank. I spent a few months researching and trying on different coat before coming across this gem (pictured above).
A quality wool coat will do wonders for you during the cold, winter months. This is not the department to skimp on.
You May Enjoy Reading: 3 Essential Winter Coats New Yorkers Swear By
Parka Jacket
If you only take away one bit of advice from my personal NYC winter packing list, let it be this: the best investment you’ll make is purchasing a phenomenal down parka that covers your bum. If you’re looking for a great parka, here’s the one I’m wearing in the photo (I love it and own it in both black & white).
For another great option, here’s a (discounted) parka one reader raves about. With daily winter temperatures averaging 44ºF (plus windchill), you can’t afford to skimp on a good parka while planning outfits for NYC in December, January or February.
Some Fun (or Funky!) Pants
When planning outfit ideas for New York City in December, I suggest adding some fun colors. There’s something about a colorful wardrobe that adds an instant dash of happiness during gray winter 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 (here’s my most worn pair).
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. Likewise, a solid pair of jeans is always a staple in my NYC winter wardrobe. Dark wash seems to be the color of the season, here’s my pick, (pictured below — I suggest sizing down).
Leather Gloves
While visiting NYC in winter you’ll be spending a ton of time outside. Nothing helps combat the cold like good gloves. My preference is leather (here’s the buttery soft gloves I buy) because nothing beats the warmth.
Plus, these leather gloves are touchscreen, which is a huge perk for anyone packing for NYC in the winter. Here’s another cute pair of touchscreen gloves.
Weatherproof Boots
If helpful, I’ve owned this pair of boots for three years (just bought my second pair). I recommend them to anyone and everyone. You May Find This Helpful: 10 Best Shoes to Wear for Walking Around New York City (by Season)
When people ask me what to wear in New York in winter, without a doubt I always mention that good shoes are non-negotiable. The second your sneakers get wet or your toes freeze because there isn’t enough insulation in your shoes, misery kicks in. You want nothing more than to head back to the hotel and call it an early day.
This is where our list of what to pack for New York in winter comes in handy. We want you to enjoy NYC as much as possible, and it all starts with footwear. Pack boots that are spacious enough you can wear thick socks but also comfortable enough you can last a long time walking.
What to Pack for NYC in Winter (let’s talk about materials)
- 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 winter 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 in NYC in winter.
New York City Winter Packing List (NYC Winter Outfit Ideas)
- Down Coat/ Parka
- Raincoat
- Waterproof Boots
- Comfortable Sweaters
- Thermal Layers
- Wool socks
- Comfortable Shoes
- Gloves
- Scarf
Helpful (Related) Links
- Christmas in New York City: 20 MAGICAL Things to Do (And 5 to Avoid!)
- Where to Shop for Christmas: 10 Cheerful Christmas Markets in New York City
- Where to Ice Skate in New York: 10 Impressive Ice Skating Rinks in New York City
- Christmas on a Budget: 20 Free Things to Do During Christmas in New York City
- Where to Drink on Christmas: 10 Bars Open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in New York City
And there you have it, that is everything you need to know about what to pack for New York City in the winter. We hope you found this list helpful and now you can comfortably enjoy exploring NYC in the cold!
Cheers!
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Very helpful. Question – How do New Yorkers feel about the wearing of fur coats?
I live in NYC and see fur coats almost daily. They’re not very common though, especially when compared to down/wool coats. But if you have a fur coat you’d like to wear in NYC, you wouldn’t stand out by any means. Hope this helps!
I agree with Kate, I see fur coats at least once a day. You’d be completely fine wearing yours. 🙂
You may see a fur coat once a day in New York (which, if you think about it is infinitesmal given how many people are on the street) but they are decidedly uncool. Maybe if you’re funky or goth and very young, a vintage fur with decidedly contrasting shoes (lunky boots; silly hat) might be cool. But they are definitely not stylish for anyone else. And you might get a side-eye from PETA types. However, with few exceptions (one is at the end of this note) there is nothing as warm. The exception is the stuff developed by NASA and found in Norma Kamali coats and I think Eddie Bauer — an incredibly light but incredibly warm coat material. I don’t know what it’s called but it’s a bloody miracle: featherweight and as warm as fur.
What a great tip! I didn’t realize Eddie Bauer used that material, I’ll give it a look. I’d be interested to test out the jacket, and if it’s indeed warm, recommend it to readers. Thanks so much for your helpful advice!
I love these outfits! I picked up a few sweaters on your recommendation from the French brand and LOVE LOVE LOVE them, thank you for the helpful list!
I’m so glad you found it helpful, thank you for letting me know!
Hi
Great site loads of fascinating useful tips. Just can’t workout what to wear on my feet in the evenings when we go out for a meal or the theatre. My big day boots seem over the top.
Hi Trudi, do you own a pair of comfortable booties (preferably ones you can wear with thick socks)? Or if you own a pair of sherpa lined boots you’ll be set to face any cold weather blown your way! As long as you’re wearing a thick pair of socks you should be golden. Hope this helps!
I absolutely love this list, thanks for all the style inspo. Wondering if you have any sale recommendations on the luxury pieces for a college student that wants to look chic on a budget? Huge fan of the camel coat, very interested in similar options if you have them.
Thank you again!
Marlee
Hi Marlee,
Duly noted! I included some great sale coats into the mix. Let me know if I can be of further assistance/help.
Cheers!
This has to be the most helpful winter packing post I’ve come across! I am a big fan of your mix of designer stuff mixed with more affordable options, appreciate the tips. Just wanted to thank you for the time you put into this.
So excited for my upcoming Christmas trip!
This is a great list of recommendations, thank you so much for taking the time to put it together. Quick question about shoes, what’s the best pair to pack if you only want to pack 1 pair of shoes for the trip?
Hey Kellie! So excited for your upcoming trip to NYC! If you’re only planning to pack one pair of shoes, my recommendation would be this pair (I wear these boots 90% of the time!).
Hello, I am coming to the NYC in 7 days and I am staying until the end of November. Do you think I will be fine with just wool coat (I own the same &otherstories as you do in gray) if I layer beneath it or do you think I sould also bring parka? The wool coats look way better in photos but I still don’t want to be freezing while exploring the city for the first time. Thank you in advance.
Hey there, it’s so hard to predict the weather in NYC (it has been unseasonably warm this year!). I think you’d be fine in a wool coat but honestly, I’d pack the parka too because you never know when the weather takes a quick dip! Enjoy the city!!
Very helpful, I love that wool jacket on you (but it’s out of my price range). Just wanted to let you know that I picked up the parka you suggested on sale and I LOVE it!! It’s so warm, I can’t believe the price I got it for. Can’t thank you enough for the recommendation, thank you so much!
That red jacket looks so good on you! great recommendations!
What kind of thick socks do you recommend? Wool? Thanks!!
Yep, exactly! Here’s the brand I personally buy.
Hi – love all these tips! We fly in on Jan. 1st. I am already trying to figure out what to wear!! what about pants / jeans? I want to look decent but yet be warm.
Hi Tonya, so excited about your upcoming trip to NYC!! It’s been getting much colder these past few days so my pants situation looks like this: high quality merino base layer and these exact jeans (very comfortable and stylish). I hope that helps!!