If you’ve ever watched the film, You’ve Got Mail (or if you’ve ever visited the Big Apple around this time of year), you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about when I say that New York in Autumn is a whole vibe. If you’re not familiar with the iconic opening montage of Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks walking the Manhattan streets to The Cranberries soundtrack, you should probably stop reading and immediately watch it. The leaves turning orange in Central Park, the smell of the first cold morning, pumpkins on brownstone steps and a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils (just watch the film, okay?) are all iconic, but it’s really the New York autumn outfits we’re here to talk about today.
After a sticky summer in the city, there’s something refreshing about autumn that brings the best outfits out of New Yorkers. Think clever layering, cute cardigans, maxi coats and chunky boots—and don’t forget the sunglasses for those crisp, blue-sky days. New York women seem to have an innate sense of style year-round, but when I’m planning my outfits this time of year, it’s no coincidence that the influencers I look to most for inspiration are based in New York City. This season more than ever, I’m finding myself trying to copy their cosy but effortlessly cool style, and I know I’m not alone.
So whether you’re jetting over to the city soon to experience New York in the fall first hand or simply looking to bring some of the city’s style into your UK day to day, I’ve pulled together some of the coolest (and easiest to copy) autumn outfits I’ve seen on NYC girls for inspiration. See and shop them below—Meg Ryan would approve.
Style notes: The calm ease of loose jeans and a roomy trench is the pinnacle of Cool-girl style. When paired with some chic black sunglasses, this ensemble is a New York sunny Autumn day staple.
This shape is perfect for layering underneath.
A low-rise essential.
Oval frames always look expensive.
Style notes: A classic combo with a twist. Patchwork jeans always bring flair to a double denim look and comes to life when styled with a crisp white shirt and leather loafers.
I love the stitching on this Jacket.
different shades of denim compliment each other so well.
The heel on these Loafers are the perfect height for Autumn daytime.
Style notes: Preppy cardigans and wide leg trousers are a timeless yet minimalistic Autumn trend that is seen year after year on the streets of New York. Pair with some oversized sunglasses and a statement belt.
M&S are always so good with classics.
A perfect colour for pairing with neutrals.
A tan belt fits so well in an Autumn wardrobe.
Style notes: Denim shirts are the best layer for Autumn, they’re heavy enough to shield you from cooler breeze yet light enough to take off and carry around when the sun comes out. Doubled up with a denim skirt, tank and boots – you have best combination for a bright Autumn day.
Such an easy fit.
Minimal and luxe and the same time.
I love the split on this skirt.
Style notes: A buttery trench and classic converse are the best in the height of Autumn. I love how Raeann has styled this casual outfit with some everyday straight leg jeans. This look works so well with a classic causal flat off duty shoe.
An investment piece at the top of my wish list.
A timeless shape.
Classic and useful for all year round.
Style notes: Different shades of brown in really work in this look. Dark brown is definitely a trending colour this Autumn and looks so luxurious under a cropped puffer. Make it your own with your favourite high waisted dark wash jeans and light shade sunglasses.
guaranteed to keep you warm – this coat is style with function.
Such a staple.
The perfect investment frames.
Style notes: This is layering at its finest. Chrissy is utilising the best shapes and monochromatic colours to wear on repeat all Autumn round. This combination will always look good when paired with some utilitarian chunky boots.
I love the cuffs on this coat.
Such a lovely texture.
A cult favourite year after year.
Style notes: A Leather trench is a versatile coat that trends each year for good reason. Mix and match your textures with a light collared knit and a heavier knitted skirt, and swap between ankle boots or open toe mules to suit the changing weather.
The wide belt is everything.
Forest green is an understated Autumnal shade.
You can never go wrong with Bouclé.
Style notes: Tweed and leather seem like an unlikely match, but when paired with pointed ankle boots and a long length knit like Babba has done here, it definitely works.
so well structured.
The ideal high waisted straight-leg.
The curved kitten heel does it for me.
Style notes: I cannot resist a cosy co-ord during the chillier months. This shade of brown and thick ribbed knit is a great example of how to incorporate it into this season. If you’d prefer a closed toe, pair with your favourite flats.
Chenille is going to be big this Autumn.
Love the wide kick flare.
A great date night shoe.
Style notes: Dark browns encapsulate the essence of Autumn. I’m always on the hunt for the ideal Knee-highs at the end of the year, wondering how I’ll pair them. I love how Babba has paired the staple boot with a ribbed midi – sleeveless for the warmer seasonal days. When the weather cools off, throw on a classic camel trench for a contrast in shades.
This dress also has a black version.
These are going straight into my basket.
Sleek with a functional double drawstring.
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