14 City-Style Pieces to Look Like a Rich New Yorker Without Trying — Starting at $15

I’ve always admired the happy hour outfits on Sex and the City. Carrie and Samantha are essentially my fashion spirit animals. Before I moved to New York City it was my dream to look half as fashionable as they did while they were sipping their cosmopolitans. Now, after a decade of living in New York, I can confidently say I’ve curated my closet to emulate both characters — and you can too.

The city-style wardrobe is easy to achieve. All you need are basic pieces that have a surprising flair, whether that be an interesting neckline, an unexpected hem or even a bright color. Ready to be the most stylish person as you sip on espresso martinis with your girls? Keep reading for the best city-inspired fashions that you can wear all summer and beyond.

City-Style Tops

1. Our Favorite: Sure, a plain white t-shirt is a cornerstone wardrobe piece no matter where you live. But this textured tee will give your outfit a little more dimension without trying too hard, leaving you looking effortlessly chic.

2. She Means Business: Blazer style tops aren’t just for the office anymore. All refined city women love a structured blazer shirt. This one from Free People is expertly tailored to accentuate your curves. Plus, it looks impeccable with your favorite jeans.

3. Affordable Silk: Feel like a rich city girl without spending a ton. Silk may be an expensive fabric, but Quince keeps things affordable with this under $100 machine-washable blouse.

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City-Style Bottoms

4. Our Favorite: The number one piece in the influencer city girl wardrobe? A pair of oversized flouncy trousers. You can dress them up for an office day or pair them with a tank and white sneaks for weekend espresso martinis.

5. Subtle Statement: If you want to spice up your jean collection, look for styles with fun, interesting hems. The split hem on this Dazed design elongates your legs and lets you show off spunky shoes.

6. It-Girl Shorts: Tailored shorts are something that everyone should have in their closet because they’re more elegant than jeans shorts but don’t feel stuffy at all. All the cool city gals are rocking them this year.

7. Flair for Fashion: Wide leg pants are the ultimate fashion statement. You’ll look like you just stepped off the runway when you wear this stretchy ponte design from Quince.

City-Style Dresses

8. Our Favorite: My wardrobe must-have? A casual yet elevated shift dress that looks incredible with heels for a city dinner and sandals for seaside getaways. We recommend choosing this ruffled dress in a vibrant color, like teal or rose, to keep the good vibes rolling all summer long.

9. Denim Dreams: Just like how a solid pair of jeans can make you feel extra confident, a form-fitting denim dress will make you the center of attention. Shoppers call this design from Favorite Daughter “ultra-flattering.”

10. City Royalty: Polka dots are experiencing a renaissance. The pattern feels girly and refined. Plus, there’s no denying you’ll look super adorable as you sip on your ‘tini in this fan-favorite Abercrombie design.

11. Travel Star: Plan on sipping martinis in a foreign city this summer? This linen dress is a must-have because it will keep you cool and stylish no matter where you are in the world.

City-Style Shoes

12. Our Favorite: Leave your stilettos at home. Chunky heels were made for the city streets — especially this statement-making pair that features a gorgeous laser-cut design and slingback silhouette.

13. New Neutral: City dwellers love metallic footwear, especially since the muted hues can be considered neutrals. Get these leather sneakers in silver and you’ll be able to walk for miles (and miles) in style.

14. Slinky Slippers: Ballet flats are the ultimate city shoes. Why? Well, they’re trendy and oh so comfortable. We’ve tested plenty, and this mesh pair from Abercrombie is blister-proof.

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