What to wear in NYC in summer is so important when planning a dreamy getaway to the city. The heat, the hustle, the buzz of the city—it all comes alive as temperatures soar and the streets become a vibrant mix of tourists and locals soaking up the sun!
From trendy rooftop bars to strolls through Central Park, New York offers endless opportunities to enjoy the summer. But with so many things to do and see, figuring out what to wear in NYC in summer can be a bit tricky.
I’ll take you through the essentials of NYC outfits in summer, share tips on how to layer for comfort, and help you pack the right clothes for a city that never sleeps! Whether you’re heading to the Empire State Building, enjoying a casual brunch in Brooklyn, or relaxing at one of the best NYC Airbnbs, I’ve got you covered with outfit ideas and a breakdown of what you need to know about the weather!
What to Wear in NYC in Summer
When it comes to what to wear in NYC in summer, you need to balance style with practicality. The city is known for its diverse mix of fashion, so there are plenty of opportunities to express your personal style while still being prepared for the weather!
Breathable Fabrics
First and foremost: comfort is key. New York is a city that is designed for walking! You’ll likely spend a lot of time on your feet, whether you’re hopping on the subway, crossing streets, or taking a leisurely walk through one of the city’s parks. NYC can also get pretty humid in the summer months, so wearing lightweight and breathable fabrics is essential.
Here are a couple of tips for putting together your outfits:
- Light fabrics: Opt for cotton, linen, or jersey materials that are breathable and won’t make you feel sticky after a few hours.
- Layers: The weather can shift quickly, especially as you transition from the heat outside to the cool air-conditioned interiors of shops, cafes, and museums. A light jacket or cardigan is a good idea for layering.
Accessories for Style and Necessity
A hat and sunglasses will be your best friends when out and about. A stylish sun hat or trendy cap can really bring your outfits together while also protecting your eyes and skin from the sun. A floppy sun hat can be great for lounging in the park as it will help keep you cool, while a casual cap will give you sun protection while also being practical for walking around town.
Another great option for your NYC packing list is a light summer scarf. This is something that can add style to your outfits while also being a beneficial travel tool as well. You can use it to pull over your shoulders inside when it’s chilly.
Comfortable Footwear
When visiting New York City in the summer, comfort should be at the top of your packing list, especially when it comes to footwear! When you are wondering what shoes to wear in NYC in summer, consider your activities!
Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Manhattan, exploring quirky neighbourhoods in Brooklyn, or spending hours in the iconic Central Park, you’ll be on your feet all day. That’s why wearing the right shoes is crucial.
Opt for comfortable, supportive footwear like cushioned sneakers, slip-on sandals with arch support, or stylish flats that won’t leave your feet aching by the end of the day. Lightweight, breathable shoes are a must to deal with the hot and humid summer temperatures. You definitely don’t want to be stuck in sandals that are too tight or shoes that don’t offer enough support.
Of course, a pair of breathable boots or high heels are great for the evening or a night out as well!
NYC Outfits For Summer
Cotton T-shirt, Denim Shorts, and Chunky Sneakers
For a comfortable day of exploring, pair a lightweight cotton t-shirt with high-waisted denim shorts. Add some chunky white sneakers for comfort and style, perfect for walking around the city! This is an ideal look for NYC summer clothes as it keeps you cool while you’re on the go.
A crossbody bag keeps your hands free, and a wide-brimmed hat offers extra sun protection while you stroll through iconic neighbourhoods! This is a solid choice for what to wear in NYC in June when the days are warm but not too hot.
Floral Sundress and Espadrilles
Head to Central Park or any green space in style with a flowy floral sundress. Paired with comfortable espadrilles, this look is breezy and chic. For cooler evenings, add a light denim jacket. A tote bag completes this casual yet stylish outfit, perfect for enjoying a picnic or taking a relaxing walk in the park! This is one of those classic Summer outfit ideas for NYC that works for a laid-back day, especially when you’re figuring out what to wear in NYC in July.
Black Tank Top, Paperbag Trousers, and Mules
For an evening out at a rooftop bar, you can go for a sleek black tank top and high-waisted paper bag trousers for an effortlessly stylish look. Adding some low-block mules and a small crossbody bag can create a really polished finish look for you!
A statement necklace or bold earrings will elevate the outfit, perfect for a drink with a view of the city skyline! This is a great choice to consider when planning your NYC outfits for August when the evening temperatures start to cool but you still want to look fab.
White Blouse, Wide-Leg Trousers, and Sandals
When you’re hitting a museum or gallery, you can go for a sophisticated yet relaxed look with a loose white blouse and wide-leg trousers. These are both breathable and stylish for long hours spent browsing exhibits.
You can pair this look with comfortable sandals and a leather crossbody bag for easy access to essentials, and don’t forget your sunglasses for a pop of style when you’re outside. This is a great outfit for what to wear in NYC in July when you’re likely to be hopping between air-conditioned museums and the warm, bustling streets.
Silk Slip Dress and Strappy Sandals
For a chic dinner and drinks out in the city, a silk slip dress is your best bet! Pair it with some strappy sandals or low heels for added elegance. A denim jacket will keep you cozy when it gets a little chilly in the evening, and a statement clutch adds a touch of glamour to complete your look. This outfit is perfect for a night out in SoHo or Greenwich Village and is one of my favourite New York City outfit ideas for Summer!
Linen Shirt, Tailored Shorts, and White Sneakers
For a weekend getaway or day trip outside the city, go for a casual but stylish look with a light linen button-down shirt and tailored shorts. White sneakers are a good option to keep yourself comfortable while you explore the city. You can also add a wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the sun, making this outfit perfect for escaping the heat.
If you find yourself wondering what to wear in NYC in June you can’t really go wrong with this outfit combo as it works for so many different situations. I adore this look for a quick weekend in NYC but, if you’re planning a summer day trip outside the city, the linen shirt and tailored shorts combo is still the way to go!
Polka Dot Blouse, High-Waisted Jeans, and Platform Sandals
For a fun day out, channel a bit of vintage flair with a polka dot blouse tucked into high-waisted mom jeans or jean shorts. This would look incredible with platform sandals or you can opt for chunky sneakers for extra comfort.
A wide-brimmed hat and cat-eye sunglasses complete the look, giving you that retro vibe with a modern twist! This is an ideal choice for a day of walking through art galleries or brunching in Williamsburg, and it works for those looking for NYC summer clothes that keep you cool yet stylish during those warmer months.
Oversized Blazer, White T-shirt, and Tailored Shorts
For a high-fashion street-style look, pair an oversized blazer with a simple white t-shirt and tailored shorts. This look is polished but relaxed, making it perfect for a lunch meeting or strolling through upscale neighbourhoods. Complete the outfit with comfortable loafers or strappy sandals and a structured handbag. Add a touch of style with sunglasses and minimal jewelry.
This is a great option to consider when you are brainstorming summer outfit ideas for NYC. I think this is an especially fit for those looking for NYC outfits for August as it allows you to look sharp while still beating the heat.
These outfits offer a variety of options for different occasions, from sightseeing to dining out, and are designed to keep you stylish and comfortable while navigating the summer heat in New York City. Whether you’re figuring out what to wear in NYC in June, July, or August, these outfits combine practicality with fashion for every summer adventure in the Big Apple!
NYC Weather in Summer
Summer in New York City is an experience all its own—think hot, humid days with the energy of the city turning up a notch. During June, you’ll start to feel the warmth setting in, but it’s not too intense yet. Temperatures usually range from the mid-70s to low 80s°F (24-28°C), making it a great time for outdoor activities like walking in Central Park or hitting up the rooftop bars. However, it can get a little muggy, especially in the afternoons, so light, breathable clothes are a must!
By July, the heat really kicks in. Expect high temperatures in the low 90s°F (32-34°C), and the humidity can make it feel even hotter. It’s the peak of summer, and you’ll want to stay hydrated, take breaks in air-conditioned spaces, and wear comfortable, lightweight clothing.
August can feel almost like a continuation of July, but it’s a bit more unpredictable. It can still be sweltering, with temperatures often climbing into the low 90s°F (32-34°C), or you might get a sudden cool breeze that feels like a relief. You might experience occasional rainstorms, so packing an umbrella isn’t a bad idea.
Other Things to Pack for NYC in Summer
When figuring out what to pack for New York City in Summer, it’s easy to focus on clothes and shoes, but there are a few other essentials you’ll definitely want to bring along. Here are four items that I think should make it onto your New York City packing list for Summer:
- Sunscreen – With the sun beating down during the summer months, sunscreen is a must to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Choose one that’s lightweight and doesn’t feel greasy, especially since you’ll likely be out and about all day.
- Water Bottle – NYC can get pretty hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Bring a refillable water bottle to save on plastic bottles and have water on hand as you explore the city’s streets.
- Portable Charger – You’ll likely be using your phone for navigation, photos, and keeping in touch with loved ones, so a portable charger is essential. It’s a lifesaver during long days of sightseeing when you can’t afford for your battery to die.
- Umbrella – New York summers can bring sudden, short rain showers. Packing a small, foldable umbrella will save you from getting soaked if a downpour unexpectedly hits while you’re out exploring.
When deciding what to wear in NYC in summer, the key is balancing style with comfort. With so much walking, and unpredictable weather, lightweight, breathable fabrics and comfortable shoes are a must. Even if you are only spending a weekend in New York City, by planning your outfits thoughtfully, you’ll stay cool and stylish, ready to enjoy everything NYC has to offer.
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