It comes to a point where you realize your For You Page captures a small fraction of fashion trends. And while storefront displays and seasonal brand collaborations tell another story, stepping out of your shops and social timelines and onto the streets reveals a far more compelling narrative of dress, especially in a city such as New York. It’s a menagerie of different styles out there, of pairing thrift store holy grails with hand-me-downs, luxury jewelry, and everything in between. Coordinating couples waiting at the subway or friend groups gathered at a stoop, each with wardrobes worlds-away from the other — truly anything goes.
We kept a sharp eye on every avenue, streetcorner, and stoop to get a sense of what exactly New Yorkers are wearing. Below, explore five fashion trends New York City just can’t get enough of — and neither can we.
The More Trinkets, the Better
Bag charms have quickly become accessory-du-jour, and there’s certainly no shortage of them in NYC, where every other block has a shop with floor-to-ceiling walls’ worth of any keychain imaginable. It’s no wonder why so many people have readily embraced stacks of baubles and bows that spill over purse handles, as the joy of curating a pocket-size cabinet of curiosities for a handbag is as thrilling as it looks, and, quite literally, sounds. Especially notable trinkets we spotted including a miniature Barbie Polaroid camera (yes, it works!), an anthropomorphic tennis ball Jellycat, and stylish rodent plushies.
Patternmania
What better to style a pattern with than another pattern? Animal prints, mix-and-match statement designs and fluorescent colors paired with maximalist abandon are the way to go this season. This trend is especially well-suited for autumnal layering, as the temps cool, winds pick up, and you start to dust off your jackets and scarves. Whether you’re sporting a larger-than-life fur coat; a plaid skirt paired with leopard-print ballet flats; or a wavy checkerboard blouse from Elton John’s closet sale collaboration with eBay, there’s something in this print-obsessed look for everyone.
Flowers ‘Cross the Seasons
Forgo fashion rules of the past, wear the white jeans after Labor Day and the florals in 60-degree rainy weather. Botanicals are no longer reserved for the spring season only, and this trend is here to prove it. From jumbo flower brooches and hair clips to fruit-themed necklaces, a little flora can playfully spruce up an otherwise muted outfit.
Statement Bags Complete the Outfit
Pearly hearts, chickens, and award show ribbons are just the start of a long list of bags with big personalities we’ve spotted this season. They’re the perfect piece to marry form and function, as a handy purse truly is a must-have for anyone on the go. Are purses coming for the crown of the new ugly accessory? You’ll just have to wait and see.
Metals and Lace
Chunky hardware paired with chiffon, lace, and a touch of irony have been steady go-to combinations for quite some time. After all, juxtaposing soft and darker pieces spans generations, from grunge darlings of the ‘90s to pastel goths of Tumblr’s heyday. Continuing this tradition are piercing-inspired necklaces placed atop ruffles and metal pasties evocative of the dark ages.
