Winter in New York isn’t for the faint of heart—or the faint of style. Between icy subway platforms to rooftop dinners and SoHo brunches, the city demands a collection that is as luxe as it is warm. But staying warm doesn’t have to mean sacrificing sophistication. And here’s the factor that changes everything:with a curated closet of wardrobe essentials that make every layer feel intentional and effortless.

From boardroom to a holiday party and Central Park strolls to late-night dinners, PhotoBook Magazine provides insight into the New York City It-Girl’s ultimate winter capsule.

**Left:**
Image courtesy of Andrea Piecuch Druckenmiller
**Right:**
Image courtesy of Preslie Ross

1. Sleek Knee-High Boots

Knee-high boots are a necessity to every cold-weather wardrobe. A pair of structured knee high boots exudes instant elegance and confidence, even on the slushiest city day. The perfect pair can be worn day and night, lengthens your frame, adds height, and anchors your look. Whether you’re striding down Fifth Avenue or slipping into a dinner reservation in Tribeca, they’re the finishing touch that says effortlessly put together.

Style Cue: Opt for smooth leather with a pointed or almond toe. They slide easily under trousers or balance the volume of a midi skirt—no fuss, all finesse.

2. Statement Belt

In a season that calls for heavy layering, a belt is your silhouette’s best friend. Cinch your wool coat, oversized blazer, or sweater dress to reclaim your shape and showcase your waist. Because a bold, structured belt doesn’t just hold your look together, it defines it.

Style Cue: A clean, refined leather with a bold buckle in gold is a versatile choice.

3. Puffer Jacket

Puffer jackets are a hit this winter. Forget bulky silhouettes; this season’s puffers are sleek, sculpted, and impossibly chic. Puffer jackets have truly evolved beyond outwear—they have become the outfit.

Style Cue: Style your puffer jacket with leggings and knee-high boots for errands, or drape it over a mini dress and tights for a nighttime vibe.

4. Leather Gloves

There’s something iconic about winter gloves. A pair of perfectly fitted leather gloves instantly brings sophistication to even your most casual winter moments. Winter leather gloves aren’t always for warmth, they’re for the women who steps out with style.

Style Cue: Choose lined leather in a shade that complements your coat, or go bold with a deep emerald or forest green for a pop of unexpected color.

5. Tailored Wool Coat

The cornerstone of winter dressing. A sharply cut wool coat in camel, black, or charcoal transforms the most simple outfit into something editorial. It’s the piece that truly defines the season. A tailored wool coat can be worn over denim and sneakers while walking through the streets or to a business meeting for a more corporate look, it is truly the most versatile piece.

Style Cue: Choose a classic neutral for longevity

6. Statement Blazer

A well-tailored blazer is the New Yorker’s year-round uniform. But in winter, it takes on an even bigger role. Worn under your coat or styled solo with trousers, it’s the definition of sleek sophistication. A statement blazer this winter will add versatility, and works as a stylish layer that maintains an impeccable look for office or formal events.

Style Cue: Oversized blazers are the winter uniform of the IT girl.

Image courtesy of Taelyr Robinson
Photographer: Will Mac

7. Wool Scarf

Bundle up! Winter is here and the coldest days are still to come. Nothing keeps you warmer than a wool scarf. A plush wool or cashmere scarf in an achromatic palette adds both warmth and texture to your look. Soft, timeless, and sophisticated, a wool scarf is the finishing layer that feels like a quiet luxury.

Style Cue: Break up an all black outfit with a plaid or a patterned scarf.

8. Structured Handbag

Every New Yorker has a statement bag. Structured handbags are architectural statements. In a city where style meets purpose, the structural handbag becomes a statement piece. Whether it’s a sleek handle bag, a geometric crossbody, or a satchel, a structural bag finishes every polished look.

Style Cue: Among the standout trends for Winter 2025, animal print bags are making a bold return this season.

9. Matching Lounge Set

A cozy lounge set is crucial for moments where you just want to throw on an outfit and run out the door. A matching knit or cashmere lounge set turns downtime into a fashion moment. Perfect for travel, morning coffee runs, a busy day of errands on a Sunday, or a night in—matching lounge sets transform relaxation into a fashion statement.

Style Cue: Pair the set with crisp white sneakers for a polished and sleek finish.

10. Sweater Dress

When New York winter hits, so does the holiday party season. In New York, nothing is easier or more polished than a sweater dress.Whether you style it with knee-high boots and a statement belt or layered jewelry and heeled booties, it’s the easiest way to look put-together with minimal effort.

Style Cue: Opt for a neutral tone like ivory, mocha, or charcoal for endless styling options.

11. Leather Pants

Leather pants are the ultimate city essential. They add edge to soft knits and bring structure to relaxed layers. Sleek, modern, and versatile, they redefine winter chic and instantly elevate your look. Leather pants can be worn with knee high boots for a dinner date or holiday party, or can be worn with an oversized knit for a more casual look.

Style Cue: A classic black leather pant is the most functional choice, and opting for a thicker pair of leather ensures warmth without sacrificing style this winter.

12. Silk Blouse

Few pieces embody timeless sophistication quite like a silk blouse. It’s the understated luxury piece that transforms every outfit. A silk blouse can be worn and styled differently based on the time of day, taking you from early morning meetings to a night out with a change of shoes and a lipgloss.

Style Cue: Layer under a blazer or wear a silk blouse half-tucked with tailored trousers or leather pants.

13. Faux Fur Jacket

As winter is settling in, the fashion world is ready for the item of the season: faux fur jackets. Faux fur jackets have become the modern fashion girl's sustainable staple, offering the luxurious look and feel of traditional fur without the heavy environmental or ethical costs. There are various types of faux furs to choose from this season—classic long coats, cropped furs, textured styles, shearling trimmed coats, and various other styles.

Style Cue: Keep the jacket the focus, let the faux fur be the statement piece.

Article by Christiana DiNardo, Contributing Fashion Editor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine

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