The timing of this article couldn't be better. The temperatures are lower than we've seen in years, and New Yorkers are putting fashion to the side in exchange for as much warmth as possible. Yet when I look at the experienced fashion crowd, they still look put together somehow (and warm!). I've heard whispers at fashion gatherings about base layers, cozy socks, and other secrets that people who are used to braving the cold in New York use.
I can't help but want to ask, "Wait, how exactly are you dressed so well and not freezing? What are you layering with?" Someone tell me! If you're as nosy as I am, you'll be glad to hear that I decided to save us the trial and error and ask them myself. They spilled the beans, and my shopping cart is officially full. Below, find out what five stylish New Yorkers are using to stay warm and survive the cold this winter.
"A subtle reminder that your cashmere sweater doesn’t have to be neutral to be a good staple. I love to wear a pop of color now and then, and I reach for this one so often as a base layer."
"I wear mine a lot. I find that the chunky soles bring a bit of boldness whilst keeping it quite timeless and adding extra personality. I love to pair them with my Attire leg warmers when wearing tights."
"Tailored wool trousers wear so well with sneakers or boots and are super comfortable to layer with tights for extra warmth whilst looking effortlessly chic."
"I love an oversize blazer, and even in velvet, it’s such a versatile piece. I like that it brings an edge to my day or eveningwear."
"A 100%-wool cut is such a great investment. I especially love this one for its sleek, long structure that automatically makes me look more put together whilst keeping me warm."
"This bodysuit is my winter holy grail! Yes, it's pricey, but there is no better turtleneck in the game right now—I promise you. The quality is impeccable; it doesn't stretch out, which is extremely important to me; and it's fitted, so you can layer over it without getting that bunched-up look when you have on multiple layers. I think it also looks great on its own, and I love wearing it with high-waisted jeans and a pointy boot for a really sleek look."
"I am loyal to the Aritzia Super Puff for those bitter-cold winter days. It really lives up to the hype. It comes in every color imaginable, I have three, and if I want it to feel a little a touch more elevated, I wear it with a belt bag over it for that '90s Chanel runway look."
"I just love Toteme's knits. They're well-made, and they're timeless."
"These are a no-brainer. They're fleece-lined, so they're super soft and cozy, and most importantly, they keep you warm!"
"I walk everywhere in New York, even in the bitter cold, so not a day goes by during the winter that I don't wear Uniqlo Heattech as a base layer. It's super thin and doesn't look or feel bulky yet makes all the difference in terms of warmth."
"As someone prone to cold feet, having multiple layers of warm socks is a nonnegotiable. Uniqlo makes the warmest ones, in my humble opinion, and they're not too thick for when I need to double up."
"Surely, one’s sweater needn’t be by The Row to be warm and cozy, but the Sibem sweater is my absolute favorite. It’s the perfect weight and length, is great for layering, and I find myself reaching for it several times a week during the colder months."
"As a freelancer who works on the internet for a living, I’m always on the go and running from meeting to meeting, responding to texts and emails in between. Fingerless gloves, while not the warmest, are a must for efficiency’s sake, and I am in love with this pair by Issey Miyake."
"I always say coats are to New York like cars are to Los Angeles. And it’s vital to have at least one really great option in the winter, as it can get quite blustery (especially Downtown). I’ve found that a long shearling number, like this Toteme one, is both a warm and chic choice. And it makes even a sweatsuit look put together."
"If coats are like cars, then boots are snow tires. These boots by The Row are definitely an investment, but are incredibly durable, have a very thick sole (no wet socks!), and can accommodate multiple layers of socks when necessary (important!)."
"My mom gifted me these gloves last Christmas and boy—when I tell you they have been worn to death. They’re not short like most gloves are and can easily tuck beneath long sleeves and chunky sweaters."
"I invested in these Lisa Yang beanies, beige and black, last year, and I never looked back. They’re made of a thick cashmere that keeps my hair in place and my ears warm."
"The technical yarn in these thermo tights is so, so cozy—I wear them beneath jeans, skirts, trousers, and dresses. Sometimes I add an extra sock over the top if I’m wearing a low-profile shoe, like a loafer."
"From the shoulder pads to the maxi length, this wool-and-cashmere turtleneck dress has become a daily go-to in my winter wardrobe for its functionality and sleek details. The shoulder pads add a sharp edge, while the length adds warmth."
"The perfect tights to wear under your dresses or skirts for winter. I love wearing these under my jeans or trousers. It's important to layer!"
"Everyone who lives in NY knows that winters get brutally FREEZING COLD. The best way to combat this is by always having a base-layer jacket that’s thin (but warm enough) to wear under your topper coat. I love this one from Velvet, as it has a fuzzy lining!"
"In NYC winters, you will 100% need something warm to cover your head. That’s why I love this knit beanie from Vince. It comes in both black and gray to match any wardrobe. It’s also superb, as you can fold it and wear it as a close-knit or uncuff it and wear it tall."
"My skin tends to get über-dry during the winter months. The best way to lock in moisture is with rose water. I love to use this clean one from Tammy Fender. It’s free of parabens and has no artificial color or fragrance, which is perfect for my sensitive skin."
"The weight of this Alex Mill novelty knit is perfect for those cold wintry days. You can dress it up with a pleated black skirt or make it causal with joggers."
Everyone needs a good hoodie.
Bodysuits are a must for cold weather.
Think pink.
The layering opportunities with this sweater are endless.
