Californian visiting NY in January...guide me!

[Midge Maisel]

Work is taking me to NY (yay!) in January (uh...) and I am a lifelong Southern Californian whose idea of a winter day is something in the low 50s. In other words, if I own the right clothing, it's only by accident (save for my winter coat, which I bought for Christmas in NY years ago and still wear). Thus, I turn to you, the brilliant people of TPF, with the humble request that you help me figure out what I need to find/buy so I'll be comfortable on this trip!

Any recommendations would be appreciated.

 

[doloresmia]

I like to layer sweaters - one can be tied around neck as a scarf, two on body - go T-shirt weight wool and cashmere for lack of bulk and one tied around waist for another layer as needed

Uniqlo heat tech shorts and leggings under pants are amazing

Then you don’t need a heavy coat which I find difficult to wear. Big coat Makes me think I will tip and is tiring to lug around

I also have high top converse Sherpa platforms and woolen socks for walking. Idea is to keep distance between my feet and the cold cold ground. Plus which the platforms are very comfy

 

[citykitty24]

The last few years have brought warmer Januaries than normal in NYC. However, by California standards, I understand the concern! The temperatures can vary quite a bit in the 25 to 55 range, so check the forecast closer to time before you pack.

Generally, layers and sweaters are very helpful. If you wear a cashmere sweater under a lighter jacket/coat, it will keep you quite warm, but you can zip open the jacket if it is a bit less cold that day.

The big thing for me is having the right footwear. NYC is a lot of walking around, and the wrong shoes will make your feet chilly! I love ankle boots for this time of year--closed shoes make a big difference and can still look chic.

 

[Yoshi1296]

Lately January in NYC has been fairly warm compared to before (most of us know why but don't want to get political about it).

I'd say a long sleeve sweater and a coat (just a wool peacoat or longer length coat), pants and closed toe shoes should be enough. You can throw in a scarf and hat if you need. I usually just prefer a scarf.

You definitely don't need a bubble coat or anything.

I agree with the above sentiment, wear proper shoes. Something comfy and closed so that you can walk a lot without having your toes feel cold. If youre wearing heels, make sure they are block heels. Loubs have no place in NYC lol.

 

[Love Of My Life]

Temperatures can vary, it could be snowy, windy & cold, so layers are the best option.
Streets can be difficult to maneuver should there be snow (snow melting puddles galore)
so waterproof boots are a good option to explore or another comfortable shoe to walk/wear
Agree with the scarf & perhaps gloves if you like your hands to be warm as well as a knit hat.
Enjoy your time here.. some really wonderful exhibitions around & about town.. have fun
& if you are looking forward to a particular restaurant, make your reservation as far in advance
as you can

 

[Midge Maisel]

Thank you all for your recommendations! Re shoes: I have regular leather Jimmy Choo and Hermes boots, and a pair of combat boots. I'd be happy to wear either of those, but I also don't want to ruin them (or get soaked). Should I plan to buy something a little sturdier?

 

[Swanky]

Watch the weather before you go carefully lol
However, NYC in Jan is freezing for this Southerner.

 

[lill_canele]

As a southern Californian who has lived a short time on the East Coast, in Washington DC but also traveled up north to NY, I'd say just make sure you have a good solid coat (preferably with both buttons an zip for versatility, but not necessary) and layering will do the rest.
I personally enjoy colder weather and went to Napa Valley last month where the nights were in 40s. Of course NY can get colder than that, but I brought 1 solid fur jacket that was sheepskin lined and it kept me comfortably cozy with just one layer underneath.

Agree with the others about proper shoes. Find ones that have good grip when it comes to rain or potential slushy ice/snow.
(I remember slipping on ice in what I thought were okay boots when I was walking about outside and my landlord's wife, bless her soul, happened to be driving by, and picked me up to bring me to my destination ) Waterproof is best but water resistant works as well. I assume you'll be in teh city and on the move, going in and outdoors, so hopefully no extensive exposure to rain or snow.

If you want to use the boots you have, you can use a protective leather spray. I vaguely remember using that on my shoes when I lived in Washington DC. (no recommendations though, its been forever since I sprayed down shoes)

 

[Midge Maisel]

Agree with the others about proper shoes. Find ones that have good grip when it comes to rain or potential slushy ice/snow.
(I remember slipping on ice in what I thought were okay boots when I was walking about outside and my landlord's wife, bless her soul, happened to be driving by, and picked me up to bring me to my destination ) Waterproof is best but water resistant works as well. I assume you'll be in teh city and on the move, going in and outdoors, so hopefully no extensive exposure to rain or snow.

Definitely beginning to think I should get some new boots (or just spray down my combat boots). Designer boots, while adorable, have almost no grip. But combat boots do have decent grip! I'll have to do some shopping (a devastating prospect, of course).

 

[A1aGypsy]

Definitely beginning to think I should get some new boots (or just spray down my combat boots). Designer boots, while adorable, have almost no grip. But combat boots do have decent grip! I'll have to do some shopping (a devastating prospect, of course).

Buy something that can survive wet and salt. I wouldn’t wear fancy ones. The weather can be unpredictable but I wouldn’t be traveling to NYC with warm blood without a winter coat. If you don’t need to wear it, bonus! But if you do and don’t have it, it will make for chilly days. I also find the streets to be almost like wind tunnels because of the buildings

Then, layers. And a cozy scarf.

 

[sdkitty]

coat, gloves, hat, boots

 

[randr21]

Definitely beginning to think I should get some new boots (or just spray down my combat boots). Designer boots, while adorable, have almost no grip. But combat boots do have decent grip! I'll have to do some shopping (a devastating prospect, of course).

I wear my combat boots 9 mos out of the yr. Theyll come in handy if weather is stormy. Pretreatment is a good idea in general, but esp if it gets wet in nyc. I also recommend hands free belt bag if shopping. Lastly, a hat that is practical and stylish. these are my 3 basics for running around the city.

 

[gkay07]

Hello, I live in Pennsylvania, I’m about 3 hours away from New York and let me tell you, New York gets cold! Especially northern New York so please, bring a coat. Also, it would be smart to wear shoes you’ve worn a few times and broken into so they’re comfortable. If you’re going into the city you might find yourself walking a lot. The traffic is absolutely horrendous in nyc. So driving wouldn’t be necessary lol so many places to see while you’re there! I hope you have fun on your trip!!

 

[880]

Thank you all for your recommendations! Re shoes: I have regular leather Jimmy Choo and Hermes boots, and a pair of combat boots. I'd be happy to wear either of those, but I also don't want to ruin them (or get soaked). Should I plan to buy something a little sturdier?

Combat boots or Chelsea boots like doc martens My chanel and H SAs love them and think they are perfect to tone down premier designer RTW; my Dior SA, not so much. He lives in Brooklyn and is tired of seeing them lol

Have a fabulous trip!

 

[blackleathergoldhw]

Not to alarm you, but it’s advisable to bring a bag that can zip up top and/or is a crossbody. It’s fine if you don’t, as many people carry open top totes with no zip, but just be cautious as you would in any large metropolitan area.