Most Wanted

New York style may be best known as minimal, but that’s not to say it lacks character. Take a closer look at the outfits of stylish Manhattanites and you’ll see there’s always an element of surprise, be it a pop of color, a sculptural embellishment or a more directional silhouette that makes a seemingly simple look stand out.

“There is a vibe in New York that is not like any other. When it comes to fashion, there is a need for practicality, especially in winter, but that doesn’t stop residents from having fun with fashion,” says NET-A-PORTER’s buying editor, Abbi Minchin. “This is how I approach getting dressed whenever I’m in town: functional but always with a playful twist. We’ve seen some fantastic brands come out of New York in recent seasons that embody this approach, from Kallmeyer and Colleen Allen to Rùadh and TWP,” she adds.

Nobody layers like a New Yorker – just ask The Cut’s editor-in-chief Lindsay Peoples, who paired her pinstripe suit perfectly with a maxi-length coat draped over her shoulders at New York Fashion Week last season. The trick when layering is to play with proportion and texture, so the look doesn’t feel too one-note. For instant impact, start with a statement coat by Yves Salomon that is both chic and cozy, then opt for something close-fitting underneath, like a turtleneck sweater or a nipped-in blazer, followed by a midi skirt and knee-high boots – Staud’s ‘Wally’ pair are just the right height for dashing between meetings.

A hint of red has become every fashion girl’s favorite way to zhuzh up an outfit regardless of where they call home, but it feels especially impactful in New York, bringing levity to a palette that so often chimes with the steely hues of the Manhattan skyline. You could choose a scarf, like American Vogue’s Madeline Harper Fass, or knitwear. Maria McManus’s cashmere and organic cotton-blend cardigan comes in the most gorgeous poppy shade and will go with all your favorite neutrals, from navy to charcoal and olive green. Style it with Loulou de Saison’s elegant ‘Sbiru’ pants, either buttoned up over a simple tee or knotted around your shoulders, then pop in Agmes’s sculptural ‘Celia’ hoops for a look that exudes city chic. What’s more, all three pieces are crafted using recycled or responsibly sourced materials and are highlights from our NET SUSTAIN edit.

Browse more in this week’s New In.