The Coolest Outfit Inspiration From Our Favorite NYC Style Icons

Photo Credit: Glamour

Photo Credit: Glamour

By: Brooke Shamon

There is nothing quite like New York City fashion, which is one of the many reasons why aspiring fashion professionals dream of living in the city. From the wise words of Forrest Gump, “you can tell a lot about a person by their shoes.” Whether that be Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queens, the community residing in New York City wears their personality on their sleeve.

Nightlife and street style are essential sparks of inspiration on every block of the city. From bold pantsuits with edgy accessories to match, to a feminine fuchsia gown artfully worn by fashion royalty, residents and visitors of the city don’t disappoint. With that in mind, here are a few fashion icons that embody the quintessential New York Style.

Sara`h Jessica Parker

Where would we be without SJP? Stylistically, lost. When it comes to her sense of style, the Sex and the City actress adopts Carrie’s bold and intentional selections, breathing life into the crisp streets of New York City. Her time playing the role of Carrie Bradshaw inspired women worldwide in life and, more specifically, in fashion. Her love of shoes in and out of the series offers complexity to an often overlooked area of accessorizing. Any good pair of shoes can elevate and dramatize an outfit—bonus points if they’re Manolos. As seen, our icon dominates two complimenting colors, one pink and one yellow shoe, conveying a message to the consumer of style...play the fashion game with intention.

Caroline Vazzana

Of course, our favorite modern-day Carrie Bradshaw is up next with a sequined midi skirt completed with a long-sleeved blouse. Caroline Vazzana is quite the connoisseur when it comes to pairing unique and complex color palettes. She completes this daring look with complimentary yellow sunglasses and metallic strappy sandals. This curious combination of textures and colors influences and encourages a refreshing twist to your basic white blouse. Author and founder of Making it in Manhattan has a unique and eclectic sense of style that will truly transform any woman into a New York City native. Ladies, take notes.

Aurora James

Designer and fashion mogul Aurora James captures the elegant city nightlife look effortlessly. Sporting a Christopher John Rogers sunset gown screams sophistication with a touch of Sex in the City magic. James’ chic yet edgy look captures the fashionable, cutting-edge NYC style. To achieve the complete intentional look, the founder of Brother Vellies pairs her brand’s purse with strappy muted-neon pumps. An unlikely piece, James perfects the mutton-like gown with unmistakable confidence that belongs in a city like New York.

Olivia Palermo 

Unexpected, unique, eye-catching: that’s our goal when dressing like a New York City woman.  Influencer and entrepreneur Olivia Palermo embodies each characteristic necessary to any New York City fashion professional. Simple accessories are a must with this distinct feminine look, establishing a timeless romantic omen to the off-the-shoulder dress. A minimal yet confident style embodies a twist to the true Manhattan fashionista. Styling an avant-garde dress like this would typically startle others away. However, Olivia pieces this combination together gracefully, offering a vote of confidence to others looking to style new and unique pieces such as this Nihan Peker dress.

Blake Lively Just Stepped Out In A Highlighter Green Menswear Suit.jpg

Blake Lively

A fashion queen and cutting-edge stylist, Lively ushers life into each garment she pieces together. Rumored to brave her own wardrobe, Blake is an innovator when it comes to fashion. The Gossip Girl actress sports a daring lime monochromatic look on a trip to New York City. Our fictional Serena encourages admirers to step up their fashion game, an unlikely pairing, and adventurous hue, a staple for Lively. The selection of accessories embody adventure; however, they do not overwhelm the already busy outfit. A tasteful experiment with colors and tones is the takeaway from this look. 

Capturing the fashion city that has our hearts in one mode look-book is nearly impossible. Incorporating pieces and themes from each fashion professional above may assist in conveying a bit of NYC, no matter what city you may reside. Couture to casual, modern, or contemporary, these leading ladies prove ways to incorporate multiple concepts into the closet.


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