How To Dress For Christmas In New York

If Christmas 2015 in New York looks anything like last year, it’s going to be cold AF. Luckily, I’ve learned to embrace bundling up to the point I forget I have a body. While my tips for how to dress for Christmas in New York don’t sacrifice style, the main priority here is to not freeze. You want to enjoy Christmas with your friends and family as opposed to fight off frostbite, am I right?

The nine pieces below are my absolute essentials for Christmas holiday weather. I start wearing subtly festive clothing the day after Halloween, and love mixing and matching pieces to create a plethora of outfits to suit whatever scary cold news the weather forecast brings.

Oh, and a word to the wise: I didn’t include handbags or purses in this list because they’re not exactly clothing, but the last thing you’ll want to do is haul around a giant bag in the snow. Opt for something small that stays close to your body and has sturdy straps. Why? Hauling heavy things when you’re cold is annoying, and the crowd struggle is so, so real in major tourist spots like the Rockefeller Christmas tree and pretty much anywhere else around Times Square.

Happy holidays, and enjoy looking fab and staying super warm in the best city on the planet!

1. Thick Leggings

Leggings that will you warm are absolutely non-negotiable in my book.

Women HeatTech Extra Warm, $20, Uniqlo

Heat tech is my winter heaven. I live in these basically 24/7 until I finally have to wash them.

Fleece Lined Leggings, $78, Bloomingdales

Plush's fleece lined leggings feel like wearing a publicly-acceptable snuggie!

2. Undershirt

Sometimes you do in fact get too hot, and it's nice to be able to take off your layers and chill in a tank top when the crowded restaurant you're in gets super warm.

HeatTech Sleeveless Top, $15, Uniqlo

Another winter obsession, this undershirt is easily hidden and provides an extra thermal layer.

Two-Way Seamless Camisole, $28, Nordstrom

This camisole is seamless on both sides so you can wear it under anything without it showing.

3. Oversized Sweater

An extra cozy staple that looks effortlessly chic.

Oversized Chunky Knit Sweater, $134, Etsy

Thanks to its added length, this dreamy sweater will double as a way to keep your thighs warm, too!

Tinsel Ball Christmas Sweater, $42, Nordstrom

Embrace the holiday feels. You know you want to.

4. Warm Coat

Don't pretend to be tough and skip a coat. You will freeeeeeeze without one.

Parka With Arctic Faux Fur Hood, $115, ASOS

This hooded version looks dreamy for when the snow starts to come down.

Quilted Down And Feather Fill Jacket With Faux Fur Trim, $120, Nordstrom

#Praise for down and all its cozy goodness.

5. Scarf

Again, basically a wearable blanket. How could that possibly be a bad idea?

Jacquard Scarf, $40, Zara

This slim blanket scarf is perfect for popping over your coat, but could also double as a head wrap if you lose your hat.

Chunky Knit Blanket Scarf, $54, ASOS

Wear it loose or bundle it around your neck until you're practically sweating.

6. Mittens

Mittens are such a playful little accessory, I say go all out with quirky and fun!

Hand Knit Gloves, $79, Etsy

Are these gloves super YASSS CHRISTMAS or what? Love.

Animal Convertible Mitten, $32, Urban Outfitters

"Not a creature was stirring, not even a (completely adorable mitten) mouse..."

7. Beanie

No true New Yorker would walk out the door on Christmas day without a beanie to keep their head warm.

Christmas Slouchy Beanie, $20, Urban Outfitters

I personally will be walking out the door in this one.

Slouchy Ribbed Beanie, $14, BP

But, holiday or not, black is always an acceptable alternative choice.

Images: Courtesy of Brands