I Live in NYC, and You Can't Walk One Block Without Seeing These 7 Staples
People-watching is my passion. When I'm asked what my hobbies are, I have to hold myself back from saying, "Sitting on a bench in Washington Square Park and just taking it all in." But it's true—the greatest highlight of moving to New York City has to be the people. Even the ones who you never interact with can make such a mark on you. Nothing influences me more than an effortlessly chic stranger.
I recently saw a pair of shoes that I had admired from afar but never thought to purchase due to a hefty price tag. A very Parisian-esque woman walked past me in them, and the next day, they were in my living room. Overarching trends in New York City tend to find their way into my closet in the exact same manner. Today, I'm going to take you on a stroll with me through my favorite city by sharing the wardrobe staples that I've been seeing the most lately. Prepare to be amused.
1. Cargo Pants
Cargo pants are no insider secret. We've been talking about them for a few months, and they've finally fully taken over. Everyone is ditching their jeans for this comfortable and fun trend.
Shop:
2. Distressed Leather Jackets
We love a good leather jacket, but what we're loving even more is one that looks like it's been through the wringer. After seeing this trend all over the runways, fashion people have already adopted it into their closets.
Shop:
3. Corset-Inspired Tops
I love anything that is influenced by my lingerie collection, so corset tops are right up my alley. They're strategically shaped to flatter the waistline and look so good with low-rise pants if you're uncomfortable showing too much tummy. I'll be wearing them all summer long.
Shop:
4. Micro Miniskirts
Miniskirts are no stranger to the fashion person's closet. Our current obsession with all things Y2K has made them smaller than ever. Once a wardrobe staple and now a fashion statement, this piece is never going out of style.
Shop:
5. Baggy Denim
You might think that oversize and baggy denim looks sloppy, but a sweatshirt has never looked more put-together than when it's paired with this staple. Something about the shape makes the legs look longer.
Shop:
I haven't stopped thinking about these jeans since I first laid eyes on them.
6. Retro Sneakers
Chunky sneakers no more. We're loving sleek and retro styles more than ever right now. A good logo, a combination of leather and suede, and sophisticated colorways come into play here.
Shop:
7. Vintage Baseball Caps
Any look is instantly taken to the next level when you add a baseball cap. And if it has a vintage-inspired logo, even better.
Shop:
I'm seeing this hat with a white cotton poplin dress.
Up Next: Fashion People Are Already All Over These 5 Summer Dress Trends
Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, rollerblading through New York City traffic, or exploring the latest luxury vintage boutique.
-
This Beloved British Brand Just Arrived in NYC—12 Items I Tried On and Loved
It's even Kate Middleton–approved.
By Eliza Huber
-
From Bella Hadid to Vogue Staffers—These Are the 10 Insider-Approved Vintage Stores in NYC
No gatekeeping here.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
NYC Editors Can't Stop Wearing 2024's It Brand—Here's What to Know
Cool-girl central.
By Raina Mendonça
-
A New Yorker on a Budget Walks Into Nordstrom—30 Items She'd Grab Instantly
More things I love from Nordstrom.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua
-
People in New York Are Wearing These Pretty Shoes With Jeans and Skirts
I've seen them all over SoHo.
By Aemilia Madden
-
I Spend Time on Both Coasts: These Pieces Work for L.A. and NYC
Coast to coast.
By Aemilia Madden
-
These Affordable Items Are Really Capturing the Vibe in New York Right Now
Everyone's wearing this chill outfit.
By Natalie Cantell
-
Here's the Tea—NY Fashion Girls Are Wearing These 5 Outfit Formulas On Repeat
Easy as one, two, three.
By Kristina Rutkowski