Winter in New York City can be a magical experience, with the city adorned with holiday lights and a crisp chill in the air. But to truly enjoy it, you need the right wardrobe.
In this article, we’ll provide you with an overview and thorough outfit tips for
- December
- January
- February
Save the amazing winter fashion deals for later (opens in a new tab, so you can check it later):
Buy the latest TRENDY winter outfits on Amazon
Here’s your comprehensive guide on what to wear and pack for the winter months in the Big Apple.
Monthly Overviews
Winter in NYC spans December through February, and the weather can be quite cold. Each month has its unique characteristics and dressing requirements.
Please note that we provide detailed outfit tips for each winter month later in the article.
December Overview
December brings the holiday spirit to NYC, and the average high temperatures during the day range from 42°F to 49°F (5°C to 10°C). However, it gets colder at night, of course.
Average high temps:
- Early December: 49°F (10°C)
- Mid-December: 46°F (8°C)
- Late December: 42°F (5°C)
You’ll want to stay warm while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
- Tops: Pack warm sweaters, turtlenecks, and long-sleeve shirts.
- Bottoms: Opt for thermal leggings, jeans, or wool trousers.
- Outerwear: A heavy winter coat is essential, along with a scarf, gloves, and a cozy hat.
- Footwear: Insulated boots are a must to keep your feet warm and dry.
- Accessories: Don’t forget earmuffs and a stylish winter tote bag to carry your essentials.
💡 Explore our detailed December outfit guide below (in the middle of the article). Just scroll down or swipe.
January Overview
January is the coldest month in NYC, with average high temperatures during daytime ranging from 39°F to 41°F (4-5°C). However, be prepared for even chillier and frosty nights.
Here are the average high temperatures:
- Early January: 41°F (5°C)
- Mid-January: 39°F (4°C)
- Late January: 40°F (4°C)
Outfit overview:
- Tops: Layering is key, so wear thermal tops under your sweaters. Add a puffer vest for extra warmth.
- Bottoms: Stick with thermal leggings, jeans, and wool pants.
- Outerwear: Invest in a heavy-duty parka or a down-filled coat to battle the cold.
- Footwear: We recommend insulated boots or snow boots with good traction
- Accessories: Thermal socks, a thermal hat, and a neck gaiter are your best friends in January.
💡 Explore our detailed January outfit guide below (in the middle/at the end of the article). Just scroll down or swipe.
February Overview
February marks the transition with slightly milder temperatures toward the end of the month. It’s still winter, but you can begin to lighten your layers.
Here are the average high temperatures during the daytime:
- Early February: 40°F (4°C)
- Mid-February: 42°F (5°C)
- Late February: 45°F (7°C)
Outfit overview:
- Tops: Continue with warm sweaters, but you can skip the puffer vest.
- Bottoms: Stick with thermal leggings and pants, but you can add lighter trousers.
- Outerwear: Your heavy coat is still needed, but you can consider a stylish wool coat on milder days, especially toward the end of the month
- Footwear: Keep wearing snow boots until the end of the month.
- Accessories: Maintain your thermal accessories, but add a touch of style with a patterned scarf.
💡 Explore our detailed February outfit guide below (at the end of the article). Just scroll down or swipe.
NYC Winter Basic Packing List
To ensure you’re snug and stylish during your NYC winter visit, here’s a basic packing list:
- Warm sweaters, turtlenecks, and thermal long-sleeve shirts (4-6)
- Thermal leggings, jeans, and wool trousers (3-4)
- Heavy winter coat, versatile jacket or parka (1)
- Scarf, gloves, earmuffs, and thermal hat (1 each)
- Insulated snow boots (1)
- Thermal socks and neck gaiter (3 pairs)
- Stylish wool coat (optional for milder days)
- Winter tote bag for daily essentials
- Don’t forget your holiday spirit!
Essential Winter NYC Winter Tips
Layering Like a Pro
Layering is key to staying warm in NYC’s winter, and it’s a technique that both natives and newcomers rely on.
- Thermal Undershirts: Start with thermal undershirts to trap heat close to your body. These are especially important if you’re sensitive to the cold.
- Thermal Leggings: Just like thermal undershirts, thermal leggings provide an extra layer of insulation for your legs.
- Sweaters: A good sweater or thermal long-sleeve shirt is a versatile mid-layer to keep you cozy. You don’t need to invest in expensive ones; functional options work well.
- Puffer Vest: Consider adding a puffer vest for extra warmth when temperatures plummet at night. It’s a stylish and practical choice for mid-season cold.
Travel Hack: Hand-Carry Your Heavy Coat
Make the most of a handy travel hack to save space in your suitcase and ensure you’re ready for the cold upon arrival.
- When traveling to NYC, keep your heavy winter coat out of your suitcase. Airlines typically don’t count it as an extra piece of luggage during security and boarding. This frees up valuable space in your suitcase for other essentials.
Staying Warm Underground
Navigating NYC’s subway system in winter requires some strategic thinking.
- Small subway stations can be warmer than waiting outside. Monitor train arrivals and, when you see the next train approaching, wait inside the station to avoid the chilly platform.
Adapt to Changing Conditions
NYC’s winter weather can be unpredictable. Be adaptable with your clothing choices, and layer up or down as needed throughout the day.
Essential Winter Clothing Items
Now, let’s delve into the essential clothing items you’ll need to conquer the NYC winter:
Are Snow Boots Necessary?
Snow boots are a personal favorite of mine during the winter months in NYC. I find them incredibly handy for navigating through slush and trudging through the mounds of snow and ice accumulating on the streets after plowing.
What I particularly appreciate about my snow boots is their thick liners, which provide excellent insulation during bitterly cold weather, especially in January. Additionally, their soles boast ample traction, making them a reliable choice for confidently walking on icy surfaces, including those thin, hidden layers of ice that can catch you off guard in the mornings in NYC.
However, while I always use them in winter, snow boots are not 100% required. During the winter season in New York, having a waterproof pair of boots that extends partway up your calf and allows you to wear thick socks is generally sufficient.
Lastly, it’s wise to choose boots that are easy to maintain. The combination of salt and various street debris in NYC can be quite harsh on materials like suede or other delicate fabrics that are prone to damage or staining.
Buy Stylish Winter Boots on Amazon
Styling tip: Boots are incredibly versatile. Pair them with jeans, skirts, or your versatile dress for a variety of looks. Ensure they don’t give you blisters by wearing thick socks or investing in blister-preventing products.
Heavy Winter Coat
A heavy winter coat is your shield against the biting cold. Look for one with down insulation to keep you toasty and dry in snowy conditions. Trust us; you’ll be grateful for it when the temperature drops.
Styling Tip: Opt for a heavy coat that combines both warmth and style. Styles like moto, peacoat, or trench are versatile and can transition seamlessly from day to night.
Browse TRENDY winter coats on Amazon
Thermal Layers
Layering is the secret to staying warm without feeling like a marshmallow. Thermal tops and leggings provide that crucial base layer of insulation. Plus, they’re thin enough to slip under your regular clothes without adding bulk. Read our layering tips above.
Jeans
Styling Tip: Opt for tried-and-true comfortable jeans that fit well. You don’t want to be struggling with uncomfortable denim while exploring the city.
Jeans are versatile and can be dressed up or down. Combine them with lightweight tops for a casual day out or with your pullover sweater for added warmth.
Thermals under jeans: The best way to stay warm in cold weather is by wearing thermal long johns underneath your jeans. These are widely available and fit snugly without bunching up inside your pants.
Look for synthetic or natural materials that wick away moisture for a solid lower base layer. They won’t be bulky, thanks to the spandex blend added to the fabric. They’ll keep you warm and dry without restricting your movement.
Pullover Sweater
Choose a pullover sweater that is light yet warm, ideally a cashmere blend. This piece serves as a crucial mid-layer under your coat and over your tee or tank.
Pair your pullover sweater with jeans for a classic and comfortable winter look. Add a statement belt or scarf to elevate the outfit.
Accessories
Accessorize wisely with scarves, gloves, earmuffs, and thermal hats. These small additions can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel outside. Plus, they’re an opportunity to add some style to your winter ensemble.
Stylish Wool Coat
For milder winter days or evenings out, a stylish wool coat can be your go-to. It offers both warmth and a touch of sophistication, making it a versatile choice for your winter wardrobe.
Holiday Spirit
Don’t forget to pack your holiday spirit! NYC is known for its festive decorations and events during the winter months. Embrace the season by enjoying the holiday lights, ice skating, and warm beverages.
December Outfit Guide
Wear layers as the temperatures drop, especially later in the month.
Our basic tips:
- Jeans
- Sweater or hoodie over a light base layer
- Winter hat such as a beanie
- Winter coat
- Comfy and warm walking shoes
In early December, you most likely won’t need a base layer during the days. At night you will need layers to stay warm during any time of the month.
The weather is colder in mid to late December and at night-time, so you will need layers at those times.
💡 If you are visiting within the first half of the month, you will most likely need layers only at night but can forego them during the day. In the second half of the month, dress in layers during the day and night to stay warm.
Rain gear: It rains sporadically here in December, so bring an umbrella at the minimum, and if you have room, pack a waterproof jacket or poncho as well. There is a slim chance of snow throughout the month, and your winter coat and regular boots or high-top sneakers should be fine for light snowfall.
Wind protection: New York City is surrounded by water, and it often gets windy, especially in the winter months and at nighttime. We like to be prepared for the wind by wearing beanies. Bring a beanie or winter hat to keep your head warm when it’s windy, and wear a base layer long-sleeved shirt with a hoodie or sweater, topped with a winter coat.
Shoes: Pack a good pair of walking shoes so you can fully enjoy exploring New York City in December. It’s a walking city, so comfortable and warm walking shoes will help you see all the sights. Wear sneakers, high-tops, or comfortable boots for your trip.
Women’s Outfit Tips for December
Pack layers, a stylish winter coat, and some good walking shoes. Although December is not as cold as January and early February, the city still stays pretty chilly, and it can get especially cold and windy after the sun goes down during the second half of the month.
Tip: We highly suggest using a bag with anti-theft features (see above) to keep your belongings safe in the city!
Layering
To stay warm during your city adventures, wear a long-sleeve base layer and top it with an oversized sweater (via Amazon) or hoodie so you’re comfortable and stylish.
Coat
A warm and fashionable women’s coat is a must when you’re packing for your December trip. In New York, we like to wear puffer coats (via Amazon) or parkas for a functional and stylish coat option. Black is a great color choice when you’re packing, as it won’t show dirt and evokes a classic city vibe.
Jeans / Pants
Pack jeans for a staple wardrobe item during your trip. Jeans are versatile and can be dressed up or down while keeping you warm in the city throughout December.
Pack warm pants! Especially if you are traveling between mid- and late December or if you plan to be outdoors for more than just an hour or so.
Thermal Underwear: You may need the thermals for walking outside on cold nights or for particularly cold, windy days. Our top tip: Check the last item in our recommendations above
Accessories
Since you’ll be walking a lot, bring a bag or a large purse to carry around. Additionally, we always recommend an anti-theft bag (see our tips via Amazon above) to keep your belongings safe!
You’ll also want to pack a beanie or winter hat to keep your head warm when it’s windy and when the sun goes down (which is early in December – sunset is before 5 pm). It’s also a good idea to bring a pair of gloves for colder days and nights.
Shoes / Boots
These are our boot tips.
When you’re packing, don’t forget comfortable walking shoes. New York is a walking city so bring comfortable sneakers.
💡 Good to know: Don’t expect all-white sneakers to stay very white, as our streets can be grimy.
Since the weather can get cold and windy, it’s a good idea to bring a comfortable pair of casual boots as well, especially from mid-December until the end of the month.
Men’s Outfit Tips for December
Pack layers and comfortable walking shoes. A winter coat, jeans, sweater or hoodie, base layer, beanie, and some high-top sneakers or boots will keep you warm and comfortable on your trip.
Layering
Wear a fitted long-sleeved shirt as a base layer and top it with a hoodie (see our rec from Amazon above) or sweater to stay warm as you explore the city. With layers, you can take off your top layer on mild days and put it back on in the evening or if the temperature drops suddenly.
Coat
Pack a winter coat to stay warm during your winter trip to New York City. We like to wear puffer jackets to stay toasty, and a black puffer jacket is especially versatile for city life. Make sure your coat has pockets and a hood for extra protection from the wind.
Jeans
Add jeans to your suitcase when packing. Jeans are comfortable and warm, and you can add a sweater for more dressed-up situations or pull on a hoodie for a casual look.
Winter Gear
Put a winter hat and gloves in your bag, so you’re prepared for chilly December days and nights. A beanie is a popular hat for New Yorkers in the winter, as it keeps your head warm, and you can also make a style statement with it.
Shoes
High-top sneakers and a pair of boots will get you through your December trip in comfort and style. Just make sure your boots are good for walking.
January Outfit Guide
This month, you pack warm with plenty of layers and winter accessories. Wear boots, jeans, a long-sleeved base layer, a hoodie or sweater, a winter hat, gloves, warm socks, and a warm coat with a hood.
It is consistently cold, with a small drop in temperatures in the middle and end of January. It also gets colder at night, so layers are especially important for your nighttime excursions.
💡 You will want to wear a hat, gloves, boots, and a warm coat throughout the month but will especially need these winter accessories after sunset. Wear a warm base layer at all times.
There is considerable rain and snowfall in January in New York, so prepare by packing an umbrella and waterproof boots. Weatherproof boots will keep your feet warm and dry. A rain jacket or poncho will also shield you from damp days and nights.
On dry days, you can wear regular boots or even high-top sneakers during the day. At night, you will want winter boots to stay warm.
As the city can be very windy at this time of the year, wear layers and a hat to stay comfortable. Winter gloves and a scarf will also help you stay toasty, especially at night. On wet days, wear your waterproof boots and rain jacket.
Shoes
New York City is a walking city, so make sure to pack comfortable walking boots. Boots will keep your feet warm during cold days and nights.
If you have room, you can also bring some warm sneakers or high-top shoes for dry days. You will need your boots at night and on wet days.
Women’s Outfit Tips for January
Bring a warm coat with a hood, layers, winter accessories, and a pair of winter boots. You will be walking in the cold a lot so make sure your boots are warm and comfortable.
This is the coldest month in the city, so pack warm layers, including long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, hoodies, gloves, a winter hat, and a scarf. Almost half the month, it is raining or snowing, so also pack a rain jacket or poncho.
Layering
Wear a warm, long-sleeved base layer that you can dress up or dress down. Add an oversized sweater or hoodie to complete your look and stay cozy.
Coat
You’ll need a warm winter coat with a hood for your trip in January. We like to wear parkas with faux fur linings to stay warm and stylish during the winter months. Black coats are a staple in the city, and they don’t show subway dirt.
Boots
Boots are everything for city life in the winter here. On most days, we wear footwear that is water-resistant due to the many snowy and rainy days throughout the month. The last thing you want is cold and wet feet while exploring NYC.
Choose weatherproof snow boots that have good grips as well as cushioned soles for walking around the city. Black boots that go at least to your ankles are perfect for winter walks in the city.
Pants
Pack warm pants like jeans for your winter getaway. Especially if you are traveling in mid- to late January or if you plan to be outdoors a lot, pack a pair of thermal underwear as well.
You may need the thermals for walking outside on cold nights or for particularly cold, windy days. Our top tip: See the last item in our recommendations above (Thermajane Long Johns Thermal Underwear via Amazon).
Accessories
Since it’s cold, you’ll need winter accessories, including gloves, a hat, and a scarf. You may not need your scarf every day, but at night and on cold days, it will come in handy. Wear a hat and gloves every day.
For going out at night, bring a purse or small bag. During the day, you may need a larger purse or bag for carrying water, your wallet, and hand sanitizer.
Additionally, we highly recommend a bag with anti-theft features (see our tips via Amazon above) to keep your belongings safe in NYC!
Shoes/Sneakers
Besides winter boots, you may want to bring warm, casual shoes such as high tops. Comfortable shoes are the most important clothing item for your trip to New York City since it’s a walking city. You will be walking to tourist attractions, around museums and nightclubs, and restaurants.
Men’s Outfit Tips for January
Bring layers, boots, a warm coat, and winter accessories. You’ll need jeans, sweaters or hoodies, base layers, a beanie, gloves, a scarf, and some winter boots to stay warm and comfortable during your trip.
Layering
Wear a long-sleeved shirt as a base layer and top it with a hoodie or sweater for your time in the city. Dark-colored tops will keep you warm and stay looking clean.
Coat
Bring a warm winter coat with a hood for your trip. January is the coldest month of the year in NYC, so make sure your coat is up for the job. We like to wear parkas during wintertime in the city, and a black parka (see above) is perfect for staying toasty. On particularly cold days, you can put the hood up and keep your hands in your pockets.
Jeans
Jeans are versatile and warm, and you can pair them with a hoodie for a casual look or add a sweater to dress up more.
Winter Gear
Be prepared for the cold with winter accessories, including gloves, a hat, and a scarf. You will want to wear gloves and a hat every day in January in NYC, and you may only need the scarf on cold and windy days. A scarf can protect your face from the wind and sleet or snow.
Shoes
Winter boots will be your best friend in New York City in January. Bring a warm, comfortable pair of boots and you’ll be able to get around the city easily even in snow and rain. For warm, dry days you can wear some high-top casual shoes or sneakers but at nighttime and during inclement weather, you’ll need boots.
February Outfit Guide
During February, it is cold in New York City. You’ll need to pack warm clothes and wear layers. Pack winter boots, jeans, long sleeve base layers, hoodies or sweaters, a winter hat, gloves, a scarf, and a warm coat with a hood.
This is a chilly time in the city and is the coldest at the beginning of the month. The temperatures drop at nighttime and in the early morning, and you will need winter gear during these times – including a hat, gloves, scarf, and boots. Wear a warm base layer and your winter coat at all times.
It is also a wet time in NYC, so you’ll want to pack rain gear like a poncho or rain jacket, as well as waterproof boots. Winter boots will keep your feet warm and dry. On milder days, you can wear high-top shoes or casual boots. At night, you will want winter boots to stay warm.
Shoes
New York City is a walking city, so make sure to pack comfortable winter boots for your trip. Boots will keep your feet warm during cold days and nights. For afternoons that are warmer, you can wear high-top shoes. You will need your boots at night and on wet days.
Women’s Outfit Tips for February
If you’re a woman visiting NYC in February, pack a winter coat, sweater, or hoodies, a base layer of long-sleeved shirts, jeans, winter boots, warm socks, gloves, a hat, and a scarf.
It is a cold time, even more so in the first half of the month. Thus, you’ll want to stay warm and dry and have layers for extra protection on wet, windy, and cold days and nights. About a third of the month is raining or snowing, so bring snow boots and rain gear.
Layering
Wear a warm, long-sleeved base layer that you can dress up or dress down. Add a hoodie or sweater for a boost of warmth. We like to wear solid colors for functional and fashionable tops that you can dress up or dress down.
Coat
You’ll need a warm winter coat with a hood for your visit during this winter month. Pack a parka with faux fur to stay warm and stylish during the months. We often wear black coats for a classic look in the city. Check our Amazon recommendations above!
Boots
You will be walking a lot on your trip, so choosing comfortable and warm shoes is a must. Pack snow boots with good grips for snowy days. We like to wear black boots that go past the ankle to stay toasty.
Pants
Wear jeans for warm and functional pants that will keep you comfortable on days and nights out in the city. Jeans are versatile and easy to dress up with a nice sweater or dress down with a hoodie and boots.
Accessories
Since it’s a cold month, you’ll need winter accessories, including gloves, a hat, and a scarf. You may not need your scarf every day, but at night and on cold days, it will come in handy. Wear a hat and gloves every day.
For going out at night, bring a purse or small bag. During the day, you may need a larger bag for carrying water, your wallet, phone, and hand sanitizer.
Additionally, we highly recommend a bag with anti-theft features (see our tips above) to keep your belongings safe in the city!
Shoes
Besides winter boots, you may want to bring warm, casual shoes such as high tops. Comfortable shoes are the most important clothing item for your trip to New York City since it’s a walking city.
You will be walking to tourist attractions (check our tips at the end of this article!), around museums and nightclubs, and restaurants.
Men’s Outfit Tips for February
For men traveling to New York City in February, pack warm layers, boots, a warm coat, and winter accessories. You’ll need jeans, sweaters or hoodies, long-sleeved shirts, a winter hat, gloves, a scarf, and some winter boots to stay warm and comfortable during your trip.
Layering
Wear a long-sleeved shirt as a base layer and top it with a hoodie or sweater to stay warm. We like to wear dark colors in the city for a classic look that stays clean looking.
Coat
February weather can be chilling and wet so bring a warm winter coat with a hood. We like to wear puffer coats in the city, and they’re great for traveling as you can easily pack them into small spaces.
Jeans
Jeans are versatile and warm, and you can pair them with a hoodie for a casual look or add a sweater to dress up more.
Winter Gear
Be prepared for the cold in February with winter accessories, including gloves, a hat, and a scarf. You will want to wear gloves and a hat every day now. However, you may only need your scarf on cold and windy days. A scarf can protect your face from the wind in NYC, sleet, and snow.
Shoes
Pack winter boots for your trip in February. A warm, comfortable pair of boots will help keep your feet dry and toasty even on wet days and cold nights. For mild days, you can wear some high-top casual shoes or sneakers. However, at nighttime and during inclement weather, you’ll want to wear boots.