The second I touched down in New York City, it hit me — fall in the city is like walking straight into a style guide. Even in the airport, I spotted Adidas sneakers and viral crossbody bags. By the time I grabbed coffee in SoHo, the sidewalks had turned into a runway of leather jackets, effortless knits and sleek loafers. The best part? Every outfit struck the perfect balance of practical and chic.
By the end of the trip, I had a running list of items worth shopping right now. The city has a way of turning everyday basics into must-have staples, and I couldn’t stop taking mental notes. With that in mind, I rounded up 17 staples that nail New York’s version of fall style, and prices start at just $9.
I Just Visited NYC — These Are the 17 Fall Fashion Staples Everyone’s Wearing
Effortless Tops
1. Our Favorite: Whether you pair it with leather pants or a pencil skirt, this classic crewneck sweater is the quickest way to look like a New Yorker.
2. Pretty Puff Sleeve: Not only does this puff-sleeve sweater look far more expensive than it is, it’s somehow just $9.
3. Cozy Cardigan: Perfect for crisp fall mornings, this bestselling button-up cardigan adds an extra layer of warmth.
Must-Have Accessories
4. Our Favorite: From the airport to Midtown, I spotted mini Longchamp lookalikes everywhere!
5. Sleek Suede: New Yorkers are obsessed with brown suede bags — this style was literally all over the city.
6. Trending Tote: A New Yorker staple, leather tote bags are a must for schlepping your things across the city.
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Rich Mom-Inspired Jackets
7. Our Favorite: Nothing screams Upper East Side-chic like this double-breasted trench coat that instantly dresses up any look.
8. Bomber Beauty: Wear this bestselling bomber jacket when you want to channel sleek downtown energy.
9. Rich Mom-Worthy: There’s something about a long sweater cardigan that just oozes rich mom energy — and shoppers absolutely adore this pick.
Comfy Shoes
10. Our Favorite: If there’s one thing I’m sure most New Yorkers have in their closets, it’s these comfy Adidas sneakers — they’re a bestseller for a reason!
11. Luxe Loafers: These luxe-looking loafers could totally pass for designer!
12. Fabulous Flats: These chic suede flats look just like a designer pair Katie Holmes wore — basically proof that all the New York girls are fans.
Slimming Pants and Bottoms
13. Our Favorite: These cropped barrel jeans give every outfit an instant cool-girl edge and are so in for fall.
14. Luxe Leopard: New Yorkers called it first — leopard print pants like this pair are going to be big this season.
Everyday Dresses
15. Our Favorite: With its flattering silhouette, this ribbed knit midi screams NYC rich mom energy.
16. Knitted Perfection: Embrace hustle and bustle energy while looking chic in this black knitted maxi.
17. Layering Staple: This knitted fall maxi layers perfectly with everything from denim jackets to structured blazers.
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