When I announced I was moving to New York City, the number one thing people would say was, "You won't be able to handle the winter." Well, here I am, about to tackle my second winter with a warm heart (and clothes!). Don't get me wrong, winter in NYC can be cold, but don't let people's comments keep you from visiting during the winter months! To prepare you for your trip or first winter in the city, here are my favorite fashion tips and tricks for staying warm!

Style Tips

Layer Up!

Layers are SO important, especially if you plan on going in and out of businesses. Many stores and restaurants have the heat cranked up, so when you walk in from the twenty to thirty-degree weather, you start sweating! By having layers, you can take off whatever amount will make you comfortable in the place you're visiting or if you're taking the subway or walking long distances and start heating up!

Don’t Be Afraid to Dress Up

Another thing I was told when moving to the city was that it's impossible to wear dresses in the winter. As a holiday lover and January baby, dressing up in adorable holiday dresses is something I wait for all year, so I knew I would figure out how to do it. There are a TON of accessories, coats, tights, and more you can wear with a dress or skirt during the winter to stay warm!

Pay Attention to the Wind Chill

The coldest part about a NYC winter is the wind! Depending on where you are in the city, the wind can be super powerful and feel like a wind tunnel. If there is a day when the wind is going to be high, try putting your hair in braids or a low ponytail with a hat or earmuffs to cover your ears (does anyone else get overstimulated when the wind is blowing your hair in your hair and it starts to stick in your lipgloss?! This is a great way to avoid that!).

Wear Warm, Waterproof Shoes

When it rains, it snows too, and if you're walking around the city in your fluffy UGG boots or cloth sneakers, they will be ruined. Typically, the NYC streets are full of puddles and dirty snow slush, and once those things seep into your shoes, your feet will freeze, and you will be miserable. A cute pair of waterproof shoes will keep your outfit nice and your feet warm!

Accessories Matter!

I was never a winter hat or scarf girl until moving here, and now, I don't leave my apartment during the winter without them! It's important to find warm accessories for New York rather than just ones that look cute but don't provide any warmth (I know I'm guilty of doing this!). I also highly recommend wearing fleece-lined tights under dresses or leggings, as it keeps your legs warm and cozy!

Coats and Jackets

The Super Puff

Of all the coats I've bought, The Super Puff is the WARMEST one I have found! While it has a higher price tag, it is worth it if you plan to live in NYC or have a longer trip planned. There are so many different colors, but mochi pink is obviously my favorite!

Knee-Length Coat

I splurged on the Pookie Coat for more formal winter events, and I don't regret it at all! From the length to the fluffy lining, this is the perfect coat to wear with dresses while you're going out to see Broadway shows, the Rockettes, or have a night out!

Longer Winter Coat

If your trip is planned during a colder time with a high wind chill, I recommend getting this coat. It is the perfect jacket that is long enough to cover your butt and thighs, which adds an extra layer of warmth you didn't know you needed! I own one of these parkas, and I wear it during chilly and windy days!

Accessories

Fleece-Lined Tights

I can't emphasize how much of a lifesaver fleece-lined tights can be! These are my go-to pair for winter dresses, and I love that they come in sheer black and tan to go with whatever outfit you're planning!

Hand Warmers

Hand warmers will be your best friend! I leave them in the pockets of my jackets, and every time I put my hands in, it feels like a tiny furnace and brings my numb hands back to life. While I have reusable ones, there are also disposable options if you're vacationing in the city and don't have any use for them at home!

Earmuffs

Remember how much I said I loved wearing hats or headbands to keep my hair from blowing into my face? Another great alternative for that is earmuffs! There is nothing better than slipping these on over your ears and feeling toasty AND protected from the harsh wind.

Gloves

While it's chilly during the winter, I deal with the cold all year round during my figure skating lessons. One of my favorite accessories to wear is my pink gloves because they keep my hands SO warm that I have to take them off after my warm-up. I know these gloves will keep my hands nice and cozy this winter!

White Beanie

While this is only my second winter in the city, I'm always looking for new products to elevate my style and warmth. I bought this white beanie to upgrade my winter hat from last year, and it's super affordable and has a fleece lining to keep your head toasty!

Pom Pom Beanie

If you're visiting during a chilly rather than cold time, I recommend getting a beanie that will keep you warm but won't have you sweating. I love this pink beanie from Hollister, and I wear it on days that aren't too cold, but I still want something on my head!

Leather Gloves

Remember how I said you don't have to sacrifice looking cute to stay warm? Imagine these gloves with the black coat I linked earlier! I'm obsessed with the bow detail on each of the gloves, and the leather look gives the appearance of a dressier and formal look perfect for nights out!

Scarves

My go-to scarves from the winter always come from H&M! All the scarves are thick, affordable, and keep you warm. These are perfect if you need a simple scarf throughout your vacation, as a white one will pair with almost anything!

Shoes

UGG Boots

My UGG boots are my go-to to wear during the winter! These keep my feet dry and protected from the elements and have fur inside to add an extra layer of warmth. These are an investment, but I highly recommend them if you're going to be living in the city during the winter month!

L.L.Bean Boots

L.L.Bean boots are a huge favorite here in the city. I see so many of these duck boots during the winter, and it's because of how high the quality is! No slush or snow is seeping through these boots, and they're super comfortable to walk in and keep you from slipping!

Pink Boots

While these pink boots are adorable, they won't be as warm as the two listed above. However, these are perfect for the transition in and out of winter where it's getting warmer but there are still puddles on the ground and the occasional snow!

Writing this blog post made me want to bundle myself up and go out for a nice winter walk in Central Park! Whether you're moving to the city or visiting for the season, I hope you found something on this list helpful to prepare for the winter ahead!