Summer Packing Guide for NYC
📍5th Avenue, Upper East Side
Sweater || Jeans || Flats || Handbag || Sunglasses || Earrings
I will always love summer in the city. The warm weather creates such a unique buzz that is nothing short of infectious. On the most recent trip to Manhattan, I packed up my chicest outfits and was ready to take on the city I love so much. From a lazy afternoon in Central Park to exploring my old neighborhood on the Upper East Side, I relished every minute of it. If you’re planning your own summer trip to New York City, here are some of my favorite outfit ideas to pack.
Baseball Hat || Exercise Dress || Sneakers || Handbag || Sunscreen || Sunglasses
Turkish Towel || Portable Speakers
Picnic in Central Park
Even on the warmest New York day, Central Park is always full of locals and tourists alike. The Great Lawn between East 79th and East 84th Streets is a personal favorite spot for a picnic in the park. Especially on a sunny day, you want to make sure you’re dressed appropriately to help beat the heat. It always starts with a layer of sunscreen, like the SPF 40 from Supergoop. Afterward, protect your face even further with a baseball cap, the Yankees are always appropriate in Manhattan, and your favorite pair of sunglasses. Whenever I travel, I always like to pack a Turkish towel. It makes for the perfect compact blanket on a cold airplane or, in this case, to use as a picnic blanket. Stop by Butterfield Market on 85th Ave and Madison for a to-go sandwich and their bottled watermelon juice. When you get to the park, pop out this portable speaker and play your favorite NYC-inspired playlist.
Headband || Sundress || Handbag || Ballet Flats
($50 off with SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE)
Museum Hopping in the UES
No trip to New York is complete without visiting at least one of the many museums. The Upper East Side is home to several, most along 5th Avenue’s famed Museum Mile. Always a lover of Gossip Girl, I can’t help but get a bit dressy ala my favorite characters from the fictitious Constance Billard School. This white sundress from J. Crew and my favorite Mansur Gavriel handbag are on their own reminiscent of Blair Waldorf’s style. This knotted headband, also from J. Crew, really seals the deal. Depending on what museum you plan on visiting, you may be surprised to put in a lot of miles. That’s why I always recommend wearing comfy shoes while making your way through Manhattan. I swear by my Natalie Flats from Sarah Flint, and this black leather helps give this outfit a prim and proper look. A coffee cup from Sant Ambroeus is optional but highly recommended.
Sunglasses || Tee || Jeans || Flats || Handbag
Shopping on Madison Ave
I want to think that Jackie Kennedy would have approved of this outfit! The longtime Upper East Side resident had many iconic style moments, but this simple style may have been her favorite. As you shop along Madison Avenue’s many boutiques and shops, feel free to channel one of my favorite First Ladies. This black-tee from J. Crew has a monogram option so you can add your own personal flair. Pair with a crisp pair of white jeans and my go-to espadrille flats to be ready for a day of shopping. To keep yourself hands-free, I prefer to have a crossbody bag, like this tan pick from Mansur Gavriel. Vintage-inspired tortoiseshell sunglasses, also from J. Crew, will round off the day and make you look like an incognito socialite.
Earrings || Dress || Lipstick || Silk Scarf || Handbag || Heels
($50 off with SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE)
Dinner and Broadway
There’s so special about a dinner and Broadway show date night! While most theaters have a relaxed dress code, be sure to double-check, I vote to dress up for the occasion. Pick a restaurant close to the theater district, such as Bar Centrale or La Masseria, so you don’t have to rush after dinner. When I first spotted this stunning black midi dress from J. Crew, I knew it would be perfect for a romantic night with David. To navigate the sometimes uneven streets of Manhattan, I recommend wearing a block heel for extra stability. This particular vintage-inspired pair from Sarah Flint has arch support and is incredibly comfortable. A Mansur Gavriel handbag is roomy enough to fit your Playbill, lipstick, silk scarf, and even else you may need for a memorable night on the town.
And, just like that, you have four easy and effortless outfits to pack during your summer stay in New York. The beauty of these pieces is that they can be mixed and matched with whatever favorites you already have in your closet. You too can dress like your favorite Upper East Side or downtown it-girl without breaking the bank. Happy packing!
Love from NYC,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.