New York Fashion Week is always a spectacle — but what really stood out to me wasn’t just the runway. It was what rich Manhattan women were wearing between shows. I noticed locals donning sleek turtlenecks under oversized leather jackets, cropped tweed with straight-leg denim and leopard-printed coats that were styled in a way that felt cool (and very 2026).
After a full two weeks in NYC, I started noticing clear patterns, like structured knits tucked into high-rise cigarette jeans and pointed-toe booties with leather maxi skirts. So I rounded up 17 pieces that channel exactly what I saw on Manhattan’s best-dressed — from refined layers to statement coats and sharp accessories. The best part? These city girl-approved staples start at just $14. No front-row invites required!
17 Pieces I Saw Rich Manhattan Women *Actually* Wearing for NYFW
Knits and Layers
1. My Favorite: I kept seeing this sleek turtleneck silhouette layered under tailored coats and sharp blazers. They tuck into bottoms easily and give major UES-coffee run energy. The sweater is backed by over 11,900 five-star ratings, and is on sale for just $14.
2. A Cozy Upgrade: Soft poncho-style knits were layered over tailored trousers and straight-leg jeans all week. The mock neckline adds subtle structure, while the gray, blue, cream and black colors make it endlessly versatile.
3. Buttoned-Up Chic: Textured button-front knits feel like an everyday Manhattan staple. It’d feel especially styled over a simple tee with straight-leg denim and flats.
4. Puff-Sleeve Polish: It’s amazing how much polish a little volume can add. Paired with tailored black trousers and a slick low bun, this puff-sleeve pullover delivers that refined, expensive energy.
5. The City Staple: This chunky knit turtleneck was everywhere from SoHo sidewalks to Fashion Week runways. The slouchy silhouette gives it that lived-in comfort rich women swear by — and re-wear season after season.
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Coats and Jackets
6. My Favorite: The oversized leather jacket is the ultimate topper, especially when styled over classic basics like a crewneck tee. According to shoppers, this one delivers an “expensive look.”
7. Denim on Denim: Yes, double denim is still going strong — but the key is balance. A belted boyfriend jacket, like this option, defines the waist and makes the whole look feel elevated.
8. Power Print: Leopard coats dominated NYC streets but in a much more elevated way. A wool-blend version, like this pick, gives off that downtown cool factor I kept spotting on repeat.
9. Heritage Tweed: This cropped tweed jacket with gold buttons nails that refined, Upper East Side aesthetic. Paired with relaxed jeans, it looks designer, but rings in at just $30.
Denim and Skirts
10. My Favorite: These high-rise Levi’s jeans nail the ’90s cigarette silhouette I kept spotting all over the city. Slim through the hip with a clean, ankle-length finish, the structured pants instantly sharpen outfits.
11. Curved-Leg Cool: Barrel jeans are officially mainstream in Manhattan. The subtle curved leg adds instant shape, which I like. And the fact that this pair is a Walmart bestseller proves the trend has fully taken off.
12. Luxe Leather: A black leather maxi pencil skirt feels straight out of a New York street-style photo shoot. The long, lean silhouette and thigh-high slit make it bold yet refined.
13. Satin Statement: The silky leopard slip skirt is officially in its cool-girl era. Worn with simple black layers, it feels effortless and expensive.
Accessories and Shoes
14. My Favorite: Sleek black pointed-toe booties were everywhere, instantly sharpening denim and midi skirts alike. Shoppers even say this pair has a “high end feel.”
15. Style-Forward Scarf: The lightweight triangle scarf is the insider accessory of the season. Tossed over shoulders or looped onto a tote, it adds instant polish.
16. City Carryall: Structured top-handle bags dominated the sidewalks. This silhouette reads polished and purposeful, making it perfect for meetings, shows or lunch at Sant Ambroeus.
17. Suede Sophistication: This streamlined suede bag adds softness and structure all at once. Choose from polished hues like deep navy, warm camel or chocolate brown for that wealthy-woman finish.
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