New York City, New York in Fall: What to Wear

Got a fall trip planned to New York, NY? New York can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 65°F (that's 18°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to New York, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. For footwear, comfortable walking shoes are a must. You'll be doing a lot of walking to take in all the sights, so you want to make sure your shoes won't give you blisters.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in New York in fall—whether you're visiting the Statue of Liberty, taking a walk through Central Park, admiring the view from the top of the Empire State Building, or seeing a show on Broadway.

🔗 What should women wear in New York City, New York in fall?

New York in fall is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: cocktail dresses, light jacket, sneakers or loafers, pashmina, and jeans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything New York has to offer. And don't forget, Big Apple is a fashion-forward destination, so don't be afraid to show off your style—and pack something classy if you plan to enjoy the nightlife.

🔗 Cocktail dresses

You might be wondering why you would need a cocktail dress in New York, but trust me, they can be incredibly useful. First of all, they're great for impromptu nights out. If you're exploring and stumble upon a cool bar or restaurant, it's nice to have something dressier than jeans and a t-shirt to change into. Cocktail dresses are also great for more formal occasions, like fancy dinners or shows. And finally, they're just really fun to wear! There's nothing like throwing on a pretty dress and feeling like you're a princess. When choosing cocktail dresses, go for versatile styles that can be dressed up or down. A little black dress is always a good choice, or you could opt for a colorful version if that's more your style. And don't forget to pack a few accessories to complete the look!

These would be perfect:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for New York, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Sneakers or loafers

Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting New York. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to pack. And, when you're on your feet all day, they can help prevent aches and pains. But how do you know which sneakers or loafers to pack? If you'll be doing a lot of walking, opt for a sneaker with good arch support and cushioning. And don't forget style! Sneakers and loafers come in countless colors and designs, so pick something that goes with the rest of your outfits.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to New York. They can be used as a scarf, sarong, blanket, or even a headscarf. They are light and easy to pack, yet they provide warmth and color to any outfit. Pashminas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it's easy to find one that compliments your personal style. When choosing a pashmina, look for one that is made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere. These fibers are not only more durable, but they will also breathe better and keep you covered without making you sweat.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in New York, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 What should men wear in New York City, New York in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: cardigans, collared shirts, light jacket, jeans, and stylish hat. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to New York in comfort and style. And if you're planning on going out in the evenings, be sure to bring something nice to wear—NYC has some high-end places you definitely won't want to miss out on.

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to New York in fall. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Collared shirts

A lot of people think that collared shirts are only for work, but they can actually be really handy when traveling too. For one thing, they can help you dress up if you need to go someplace nice for dinner or a show. But how can you tell which collared shirts are worth packing? You can never go wrong with ones that are made from light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for New York, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in New York, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great New York trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in New York, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

These are some of my favorites:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in New York City, New York will help make your fall visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything New York City has to offer!