What Not to Wear in NYC, According to a Shopping Writer

If you watch any movie set in New York City, you’ll see fashionable women dressed in extravagant, sophisticated clothing. While these films accurately portray New York’s upscale style, they fall short in other ways: You won’t see residents strutting down city streets in stilettos or letting their miniskirts fly as they walk the subway grates. When you have to walk a lot and rely on public transportation, practicality is crucial. So, when I see someone making these fashion mistakes, I usually assume they’re a tourist.

After living in NYC for two years, I’ve swapped out most of my impractical, uncomfortable clothes and shoes for functional pieces that are just as stylish. If you’re shopping for an upcoming trip to New York or hoping to look like a NYC native, keep reading for these eight fashion faux pas you don’t want to make — and wardrobe essentials to buy instead. Shop stylish sandals, comfortable jeans and walking shoes starting at just $18 on Amazon.

Don’t: Wear flip-flops.

Do: Wear platform sandals.

As much as I hate it when people complain about New York being dirty, it’s true. The streets are covered in urine (dog or otherwise), and the subways are full of unpleasant surprises. That being said, wearing flat flip-flops probably isn’t the best idea—unless you plan on giving your feet a spa-level exfoliation at the end of the day, which is why platform sandals are the way to go.

While some New Yorkers will choose not to wear open-toed shoes at all, I think platform sandals are fine, as they keep your feet off the street a bit. This will help keep your feet clean while you explore the city (although I still recommend a scrub before bed). I love this vintage pair of cushions, stylish and comfortable enough for “walking around all day”.

Don’t: Wear miniskirts.

Do: Wear skorts.

When your average day involves going up and down subway stairs, walking through wind tunnels, and stepping on airy huts, it’s best not to wear miniskirts that could easily expose you. I often see New Yorkers opting for skirts instead, and the sporty look is also very trendy right now. This escort is a steal at just $26, and has over 5,500 five-star ratings. Reviewers love its sweat-wicking material, all-day comfort, and hidden pocket sewn into the shorts.

Don’t: Wear short dresses.

Do: Wear maxi dresses

Another solution to blown hemlines? Maxi dresses. I see this style every single day I live in NYC, and now my closet is filled with them. A fly maxi dress is the most comfortable style for spring and summer, and it will keep you securely covered all day long. I love that this tiered dress can be paired with boots or heels depending on the occasion, and reviewers say it flatters a variety of body types. A size 14 buyer wrote that it “accomplishes curves without showing too much.”

Don’t: Travel light

Do: Be prepared with a spacious tote

We often recommend a belt bag. Travel + Entertainmentbut if you’re hoping to look like a NYC native, you should pack a spacious tote instead, filled with everyday essentials. My bag always includes hand sanitizer, my favorite sunglasses, and a bottle of water — plus a handheld fan in the warmer months (trust me, you’ll need it on the train). Needless to say, a small bag isn’t going to cut it. Plus, stores charge for bags, so toss new purchases into your tote instead.

It has a comfortable, modern design plus “plenty of room” for the day’s necessities. This brown version is classic, although I also love bold green and burgundy colors.

Don’t: Wear stilettos while traveling.

Do: Keep heels in your bag

You might expect New Yorkers to be crawling with powerful women in stilettos, but the truth is, New Yorkers are far too practical to walk the streets of the city in heels. Instead, travelers wear comfortable flats around town and change into heels once they reach their destination.

One reviewer wore these flats all day running errands and raved that they “feel like shoes.” I love the modern bow detailing on the toe, plus they fold down to take up less space in your tote bag or carry-on.

Don’t: Wear white shoes.

Do: Wear dark colored shoes.

While many New Yorkers wear white shoes, I’m tired of finding black spots and stains on my shoes at the end of the day. Instead, I wear black and colorful shoes that hide dirty spots more easily. Now, I can walk through Central Park (or Times Square) without worrying about staining my shoes.

These Dr. School shoes will stay looking new for a long time thanks to their all black upper. One buyer wore these shoes on a trip to NYC and was adamant that they had comfortable arch support for all-day walking.

Don’t: Wear tight jeans.

Do: Choose stretchy fabrics.

Nothing beats the classic denim look, but it’s too uncomfortable to wear during long days in NYC. The harsh feeling, plus the stifling summer heat in NYC, is a recipe for disaster. So I swapped out my skinny jeans for more relaxed styles that are better for all day wear.

I love the look of this wide-leg pair that comes in blue, black, and even pink — but this white pair is my favorite for the season. With two percent elastane and an airy, wide-leg silhouette, these are the “most comfortable jeans” a shopper can own.

Don’t: Forget to layer.

Do: Bring a versatile button-up.

The fluctuating temperatures in NYC are enough to give you whiplash. You’ll be cold one minute and sweating at the subway station the next, which is why I always bring a button-up shirt or sweater. Not only do I use this extra layer to keep me warm when the sun goes down, but I also lay it on the subway seats if I’m wearing shorts or a dress.

A white button-up goes with anything, and this Zeagoo option is made from 100 percent cotton, so it’ll be breathable enough for the warmer months.

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