If you grew up watching Sex & The City like I did, you’d be forgiven for believing everyone in New York to be impossibly stylish, waltzing the streets in sky-high heels and tutus. If you grew up watching Girls like I also did, you’d be forgiven for believing everyone in New York to dress kind of like homeless people, traipsing the streets in sneakers and ill-fitting shorts. The reality is somewhere in-between. So packing for a couple of nights in the Big Apple can feel daunting! Here’s my guide on what to pack for 36 hours in New York.
What to Pack for 36 Hours in New York
I visited New York in the spring, which is the perfect time to make the most of the milder weather by packing stylish layers. Winter is of course snowy and and freezing, while summer is notoriously humid and hot. Spring is just the right blend of mild midday temperatures and cool breezes. New York is a rush a minute, so you’re going to want to feel comfortable while looking good. Chances are you’ll be out for most of the day, so it’s a good idea to keep both comfortable shoes and something warm in your bag. I always wear a warm, comfortable jacket for any long haul flights, and normally wear my heaviest shoes to save space in my luggage.
My New York itinerary included a Broadway show, and a full day of sightseeing. With my packing guide you’ll be covered, whether you’re hitting the sights or heading out for dinner. I always recommend packing a capsule wardrobe that you can easily mix and match, so I’ve put together a palette with a lot of black (hello it’s New York) and denim. You could easily dress the wrap dress up with heels, red lipstick and the leather jacket, or down with ankle boots (click here to see some beautiful ones) and the denim jacket. The striped cropped blouse would look amazing with bold earrings and heels, or paired with ankle boots and the leather jacket. Don’t forget a pair of leggings and a t-shirt for your early morning, jet lag-busting walk through Central Park!
- Warm puffer jacket, Mango, R1,999
- Leather jacket, Vintage Zionist (sold out), options
- Boyfriend jeans, Levi’s, R899
- Sneakers, Vans, R899
- Blouse, Mango (sold out), similar
- Denim jacket, Levi’s, R1,299
- Printed wrap dress, Mango, R699
- Black heels, Mango, R699
- Cropped blouse, Mango (sold out), similar
- High waisted skinny jeans, Levi’s, R1,299
- Leather ankle boots, Julz, R1,299
I hope you enjoyed my guide on what to pack for 36 hours in New York!
*This post was sponsored in part by Spree.
