Visiting NYC in the spring is such a special experience. Blooming flowers begin to peek out, the weather starts to warm up, and whenever that first day arrives that feels like winter is over, everyone in the city comes out of hibernation. It’s a much-needed change after a long, cold winter! Since I split my time between LA and NYC, I always make it a priority to be in NYC come spring. It’s one of my favorite seasons in the city.
With more mild weather, exploring NYC in spring is much easier than in winter. It’s the perfect time of year to visit, and you won’t get sweaty from all the walking you’ll do as you would during summer.
Despite warmer temperatures and the city slowly coming back to life, NYC spring weather can be very unpredictable, making packing for a trip here a bit tricky. Layers and versatile pieces are essential so you can adjust between warm and cool, and those lingering winter-like days.
If you’re planning a trip to NYC in spring, here’s my spring packing list featuring essential items to bring in your suitcase.
What to Pack for NYC in Spring
No matter what time of year or where I’m traveling, I always try to limit my color palette as much as possible and to pack in more of a capsule wardrobe mindset. This allows me to mix and match my pieces, and if plans change due to unpredictable spring weather, I can easily adjust my outfit for whatever we end up doing.
Plus, with a neutral foundation, it makes it easy to incorporate in any new pieces I may pick up during my trip.
If you’re visiting NYC at the start of spring, there’s a good chance you’ll run into surprise rainstorms and cold days that still feel like winter. Check the weather the week leading up to your trip,
When packing for NYC in the spring, focus on bringing a few jackets, sweaters, and closet essentials like tees and jeans.
Read on for my packing list for NYC in spring.
1. Sneakers
Most New Yorkers opt for chic sneakers that can be paired with dresses, jeans, or trousers. They add that bit of style to any outfit while still being practical. Walking is a way of life in New York City, and stylish sneakers are a must to have in your suitcase.
I love a simple pair of sneakers like these Adidas ones. You can wear them with everything in your suitcase and give that cool it-girl aesthetic.
This post breaks down the best shoes for walking around NYC. From comfy sneakers to chic sandals, I share my tried and true shoes to pack for your next trip.
2. Loafers
Loafers are a classic wardrobe staple. They can be dressed up or down, and are a great middle-of-the-road alternative to sneakers and heels. For the days you’ll be doing less walking and focusing more on the important tasks such as eating and shopping, loafers are a great option. This pair from Sézane are a great option. They’re on the dressier side but the lug sole makes them feel more modern.
Find more ways to style chunky loafers here.
Shop The Look: White T-Shirt | White Wide-Leg Pants | Trench Coat | Sneakers | Handbag | Sunglasses
Shop The Look: White t-Shirt | Trench coat | Jeans | STRIPED sweater | hat | high-top converse sneakers
3. Trench Coat
A trench coat is highly versatile, especially in the spring months in NYC. During spring, it can be very chilly in the shadow’s of the building, but quite warm in direct sun. A classic trench coat works for both conditions.
To make things easier when traveling, opt for a camel colored trench since it matches pretty much everything. You can style a trench coat several different ways but I love wearing mine over jeans and sneakers.
On those sneaky “still feels like winter” spring days, be sure to add a few layers under your coat to stay warm. If you’re traveling to NYC at the start of spring, packing a few outerwear pieces is crucial because it can still feel quite cold.
This post on how to wear a trench coat will provide you with a handful of outfit ideas for your NYC spring trip.
4. Blazer
Blazers are my personality no matter what time of year it is, but they are definitely a NYC spring essential. I love an oversized blazer when I’m in NYC. They’re chic, add a little edge to any outfit, and can be worn with jeans, trousers, dresses, and shorts. When packing a blazer for NYC, opt for a neutral color so it’s easier to mix and match with different outfits. A neutral blazer works during the day and at night when you’re going out to dinner.
This double breasted blazer is a polyester wool blend which means it’s the perfect layer for spring in NYC.
5. Lightweight Sweater
The weather in NYC in spring is notoriously unpredictable. To be prepared, pack a lightweight sweater to layer over t-shirts on cooler days or over your shoulders when the spring sun makes an appearance.
When packing a lightweight sweater, consider the thickness! You want it to be thin enough that it can be layered under a lightweight jacket but thick enough to keep you warm. This sweater has been a recent favorite, as well as this one.
6. Jeans
I recommend bringing two pairs of jeans for your spring trip to NYC. Depending on your footwear, I’d recommend packing an ankle length jean and a wide leg jean.
For ankle length jeans, I usually opt to pack a straight leg jean that hit at my ankle. This silhouette works for a variety of footwear options, from sneakers to heels. This pair is one of my favorites. If you’re looking for wide leg jeans, I love this light wash for spring.
See how to style wide leg jeans and more outfit ideas here.
Shop The Look: White Button Down Shirt | Sweater | Cropped Wide Leg Jeans | Mary Jane Slingbacks | Sunglasses
7. Midi Dress
If you’re visiting NYC in spring make sure to pack a few midi dresses. They’re easy to style with sneakers for exploring the city during the day. And can be styled with mary jane flats or low heels at night for dinner.
I’m also a big fan of midi dresses in the city because they cover you bum and legs much better than shorter styles for when you’re sitting in a cab or on the subway.
8. Classic T-ShirTS
This cotton t-shirt is a favorite of mine. They’re extremely breathable and soft since they’re made from 100% organic cotton.
T-shirts may be simple, but find a few you love and they’ll work for tons of things. I love layering a t-shirt under a lightweight sweater in the spring as an added layer of warmth. Once the sun comes out, simply take your sweater off and drape it over your shoulders for a polished mild-weather outfit. For semi-casual NYC dinners, they also work with jeans and a blazer. A classic t-shirt is a spring capsule wardrobe must-have!
Pack a few; at least one in white and one in black.
Shop The Look: White T-Shirt | Jeans | Quilted Jacket | high-top converse sneakers | Hat | Similar Tote
9. Lightweight Jacket
For days that are in the mid 50s and low 60s, a light jacket is your best friend. Something like a denim jacket or quilted jacket is perfect. When deciding which lightweight jacket to bring, take stock of what items you’re planning on packing.
A quilted jacket works for casual outfits and over leggings.
A denim jacket is a great spring layer in NYC, and it works for just about everything, including trousers and dresses.
10. Baseball Hat
For the days the weather is rainy or you just don’t want to spend time doing your hair, a baseball hat is a must. This one is super cute and can be worn with athleisure, trousers and a tee, or even a dress!
Shop The Look: White T-Shirt | Sweater | Wide Leg Pants | Hat | Crossbody Bag | Sneakers
11. Crossbody Bag
Regardless of where I’m traveling, I always bring a crossbody bag with me so I can be hands-free while sightseeing and shopping. Plus, a closed crossbody bag ensures all of your items are secured when in large crowds.
This black leather crossbody is one of my most worn bags ever because it’s just really versatile. It’s big enough to hold the essentials, but small enough to feel a little dressed up. Wear it during the day or night for dinner or a Broadway show.
12. Wide Leg Pants
Wide leg pants are a no-brainer, especially in the spring. They’re comfy, lightweight, and a great alternative to denim. I also love that wide leg pants can be easily dressed up for dinner.
13. White Button Down Shirt
A crisp, white button down shirt is a must in my spring wardrobe. I always make sure to pack mine for spring in NYC since it can be styled so many different ways. To keep it modern, opt for an oversized fit and wear tucked into high-waisted jeans.
14. Low Heels
For dinner, a Broadway show, or happy hour, make sure to pack a pair of low heels that are easy (and comfortable!) to walk in. After being in sneakers all day, it’ll feel good to be a little dressed up and wear a shoe that makes you feel great.
I love these low heel slide sandals from Inez. The brand is committed to creating shoes that are actually comfortable. The Isa Sandal has a plush insole with arch support, offering stability and the perfect amount of cushioning.
Save 15% at Inez shoes when you use code CHARMED15 at checkout!
Since NYC spring weather can be unpredictable (esspecially at the start of the season), the key to packing for NYC in spring is bringing light layers.
New York City dress code is generally elevated casual, so bring pieces you can mix and match, and comfortable shoes like sneakers or loafers for your sightseeing days. if you’re planning on a nice dinner or two, bring a dress or low heels.
