NYC Guides

What to Wear in New York in the Winter

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Heading to New York in the wintertime? Bundle up, because it is cold, icy, rainy, and snowy. Never fret, I am here to help, from major experience, with what to wear in New York in the winter.

If you are headed to NYC in the winter, start bundling up starting November which still technically fall in NYC. The fall rains and heavy winds funneling through skyscrapers are frigid and freezing.

In December, it’s cold, with a sprinkle of snow and if it is windy, a frozen tundra on your face. I travel every year to New York City in December and let me tell you, it’s flipping cold.

What to wear in New York in the Winter.
Photo-DenisTangneyJr @ Getty Images Signature

January and February are insanely cold, with chances of blizzards and tons of snow. Don’t let photos of beautiful blankets of snow covering Central Park and the West Village fool you. Yes, it’s beautiful for a bit, but it doesn’t last long.

When all that melts, it’s a hot mess and you need to be prepared. The slush, the grime, and the mud are not fun so a good pair of winter boots are a must.

Now New Yorkers are very fashionable people. They do not mess around with anything, let alone being cold. They know how to layer, and they know how to stay warm in NYC in the winter.

So let’s get started with some tried and true on what to wear in New York in December, January, and February.

Happy Travels! Stay warm and safe!

What to Wear in New York in Winter

Base Layers!!

We are going to start with the skivvies, the undergarments, and the base layers that will ultimately keep you warm when you take off your coats, gloves, scarves, hats, and the likes.

It all depends on your outfits, these are layers if you are out and about exploring the city. Heading to brunch, taking in all the Christmas decorations in NYC, sightseeing, ice skating, or exploring Central Park in the winter.

Christmas Decorations in NYC: Here is a guide to the best and most beautiful Christmas decorations in NYC HERE!

If you are looking for what to wear in NYC in winter

Fleece Leggings with Pockets | 3-Pack Leggings (Middle) | Best-Selling Fleece Leggings

Fleece-lined leggings and fleece-lined tights are musts in New York City in winter. These most-loved leggings can be worn, depending on temperature, alone or under pants or jeans or for extra layers.

During November and December, if wearing these fleece-lined leggings, they are cute paired with some winter boots with fur-lined trim and tall snow boots.

If the roads and sidewalks are slushy or rainy some waterproof duck boots with wool socks.

Socks! (yep, socks)

Talking about socks isn’t ideal or fashionable, but if we are talking about what to wear in New York in the winter, then socks it is. I also thought I would never make a sock collage, but you will thank me later.

If the weather calls for snow in New York City and you are out and about, exploring the Christmas markets in NYC, and doing your thing, the correct socks and boots are essential.

Nobody likes cold toes.

You need a few good pairs of wool socks, good winter boots, and some toe and hand warmers (optional). I always bring at least some good rechargeable hand warmers for my pockets because the tips of my digits always freeze.

I know you want to look fashionable in New York City and you still can with a fantastic pair of boots, it’s still possible. They will hide your unfashionable wool socks if needed (wink, wink).

Christmas Markets in NYC: if you are heading to New York City in December and exploring the Christmas Markets, this is a guide, with maps, to the top holiday markets in New York City HERE.

Highly Rated Wool Socks For Your New York Winter Trip (Clockwise, prices subject to change):

  1. Loritta pack of five women’s thick knit wool vintage crew. A multitude of colors/patterns are available on Amazon for $15.99
  2. UGG Women’s Rib Knit Slouchy Crew Sock in several colors is available on Amazon for $17.95
  3. Merino Best Selling Wool Hiking Socks Thermal Warm Crew Winter Boot Sock For Men & Women, Pack of three for $19.99 on Amazon.
  4. Women’s Wool Socks Thick Knit Vintage Winter Warm Cozy Crew Socks, Amazon for $14.99

What to Wear New York Winter

Boots!!

For boots, it’s of course personal preference on style, but it might be worth taking into consideration the weather when you arrive.

Check the weather but in any winter in New York City, make sure they are warm and comfortable.

You may want cute waterproof hiking or duck boot for comfort if it’s snowing snow boots for extra protection, and if the snow has melted and it’s sloshy, a great waterproof winter boot.

NYC Travel Tip: If you are traveling to New York and packing a suitcase, I highly recommend bringing plastic bags for your boots or purchasing boot and shoe travel bags for your travels back home. New York City is dirty and muddy and your shoes will be filled with stuff you don’t want on your clothes.

What to Wear in New York Winter

Coats and Scarves!

The key to dressing for New York winters is layering. You’ll want a warm coat that will protect you from the wind and cold, but you’ll also want to be able to take off layers as you walk around and heat up.

A scarf is essential for protecting your face from the elements (that wind through the buildings is brutal), and you can also use it to add a pop of color or pattern to your outfit.

One of the best ways to do that is with an infinity scarf. An infinity scarf is basically a long, continuous loop of fabric that can be worn in a variety of ways.

It can be worn as a traditional scarf, wrapped around the neck several times for extra warmth, or even pulled up over the head like a hood.

Infinity scarves are usually made from a lightweight fabric like cotton or wool, which makes them ideal for layering. And because they come in such a wide range of colors and styles, they’re easy to find one that matches your NYC winter outfit.

So if you’re looking for what to wear in New York in winter, consider investing in a beautiful infinity scarf.

Warm Winter Coats

Winter boots and coats are the most essential items for your winter trip to New York.

When choosing a coat, look for one with a hood or detachable hood, and make sure it hits at least mid-thigh or long so you’ll be properly protected from the cold.

What to wear in New York Winter-Packable Jackets

  1. Women’s Packable Down Jacket Lightweight Puffer Jacket Hooded Winter Coat. This lightweight puffer rolls up to the size of a soda can and provides tons of warmth when needed.
  2. The North Face ThermoBall Eco Jacket. A recycled-nylon shell and high-tech ThermoBall insulation are engineered to reduce cold spots and bring warmth to this packable jacket.
  3. Packable EcoPlume Jacket. An innovative quilted packable jacket is stuffed with plush recyclable fill.
  4. Women’s Hooded Packable Ultra Light Weight Jacket. this highly-rated packable down jacket is lightweight and compressible so you can bring it along with you wherever your travels may take you.

While temperatures dip below freezing often in New York City in winter, there are plenty of ways to stay warm without lugging around a heavy coat.

One option is to wear a packable coat.

These coats are made with lightweight, yet effective, materials that can be easily folded or rolled up, making them perfect for travel. And because they pack down small, they won’t take up much space in your suitcase.

Or, they pack up so small (sometimes the size of a soda can) you can put it in your backpack while exploring the city to add layers or take off layers.

Packable coats come in a variety of styles, so you can find one that suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a hooded parka or a sleek puffer jacket, there’s a packable coat out there for you. They are a definite accessory for winter in New York City you need.

What to Wear in New York in Winter

Gloves!

Gloves are so important for wear in New York in in December and that is probably a given. But what kind of gloves is vital information.

If you are out at night taking a Christmas tour in New York City, or shopping, brunching at a Christmas-decorated restaurant in NYC, then you may want to opt for an easy on-and-off glove to take photos with.

Christmas Decorated Resaurants in NYC: Want to see the most gorgeous holiday restaurants and enjoy a festive meal? You can find the best Christmas restaurants in New York City HERE!

Base layer gloves for what to wear in New York in December.

TRENDOUX Winter Touch Gloves | SIMARI Touch Screen Womens | Four-Pack Touch Gloves

Winter touch gloves are a great base layer for heavier glove so you dont have to remove your gloves entirely.

And if anyone knows, once your hands get cold, its hard to get them warm again.

Touch winter gloves come in a variety of styles, so you can choose the ones that best suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for something stylish or functional, a pair of winter touch gloves is a needed NYC travel essential.

You may want to wear a heavier, thicker winter or snow gloves in New York in December, January and Febuary, especially if weather calls for freezing temps and snow.

When choosing a pair of gloves, it’s important to consider both style and function. For example, if you’re looking for something that will keep your hands warm while you’re out and about, a pair of leather gloves would be a good choice.

However, if you’re looking for something that will also look great with your NYC winter outfit, a pair of cashmere gloves would be a better option.

Travel Essentails for Women: The most needed travel essential ideas to pack for women for a smooth trip HERE.

What to wear in NY in December-Electric gloves, jackets and socks

Soft Shell Electric Heating Coat | Heated Gloves | Slim Fit Heated Jacket

Electric Socks, Gloves, and Jackets!!

Yes, it gets that cold in New York City in the winter. From blizzards to windchills, the city gets its fair share of snow and ice. As a result, it’s important to dress warmly when venturing outdoors.

Electric heated socks, gloves and jackets are a great way to stay cozy in cold weather. The battery-powered insulation provides an extra layer of warmth, making it ideal for long walks or days spent sightseeing.

And since they’re usually lightweight and easily packable, they’re perfect for carrying along on winter trips. So whether you’re braving the elements in New York, these items may be worth the investment.

NYC Winter packing List-Rechargeable hand heater

Rechargeable Hand Heater

One item that is essential for any NYC winter packing list is a rechargeable hand heater. These handy little devices are battery-operated and fit easily into your pocket, making them ideal for keeping your hands warm when you’re out and about in the cold weather. They’re also eco-friendly, since you can simply recharge them when the battery runs low.

What to Wear In New York Winter

Sweaters!

One of the best things about sweaters is that they can be worn in a variety of ways to create different looks. They can be dressed up or down, and they can be layered for extra warmth in cold weather.

In New York, winter can be brutally cold, so it’s important to have a few key sweaters in your wardrobe.

A chunky knit sweater is perfect for days when you want to feel cozy and comfortable, while a lighter-weight cashmere sweater is ideal for dressier occasions.

If you’re looking for something in between, consider a sweater made from merino wool, which is both warm and stylish.

What to Wear in New York in the Winter-Final Thoughts

Now that you know what to pack for a winter trip to New York, you can be sure to stay warm and stylish during your visit. Be sure to layer your clothing, wear comfortable shoes, and accessorize with scarves, hats, and gloves.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy all that the city has to offer without sacrificing your personal style.

New York in the winter can be a tricky place to dress for. The weather can be bitterly cold, but you also want to look good when you’re out and about in the city. Here are some tips for what to wear in New York in the winter:

  • Layer up! Wearing layers is key in New York winters. You can start with a base layer of a thermal top or turtleneck, then add a sweater or cardigan on top. Top it off with a coat or jacket that will keep you warm in the coldest weather.
  • Don’t forget your accessories! A scarf, hat, and gloves are essential in New York winters. A cute pair of earmuffs can also be a great way to keep your ears warm while still looking stylish.
  • Wear boots! New York winters are all about the snow, so make sure you have a good pair of boots that will keep your feet dry and warm. Go for a classic style like Chelsea boots or Uggs, or try something more trendy like over-the-knee boots. Just make sure they’re comfortable enough to walk around all day.

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What to wear in New York in Winter. Pinterest Pin

New York City Guides-More Readings

New York City Travel Guide: This is the end-all-be-all New York City Travel Guide. It has everything you possibly need to know for your trip to NYC. Read the guide HERE.

New York City Travel Tips: Want to know why you dock your CitiBike properly or why you should not get on a horse-drawn carriage in Central Park? Read these Tips for New York City HERE.

Christmas Decorations in NYC: This guide will help you find the best New York Christmas decorations, sparkling lights, and Instagrammble spots. You can find the guide HERE.

Christmas Decorated Restaurants in NYC: These are the most beautiful Christmas restaurants in New York City that go all out with menus, cocktails, lights and decorations HERE.

Christamas Markets in NYC: The top Christmas Markets in New York City can be found HERE.

Christmas Tours in New York City: Looking for the best NYC Christmas decorations or want to head to Dyker Heights? We rounded up THE BEST Christmas lights tours in NYC HERE.

Things to do with Teens In NYC. This is a great guide on where to go with your kids or teens so you’re cool for a couple of days! You can check it out HERE.

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