Spend any single day on the streets of NYC and you’re bound to spot not just one, but a myriad of people who could qualify as the most stylish New Yorkers. In SOHO, you’ll spot women dressed up as if every day is a special occasion. On the Lower East Side, sit at a sidewalk cafe and do a little people watching—the area is abound with twenty-somethings in the next emerging designers. Personally, outfit-spotting is one of my favorite parts about living in the city. As a Brooklyn resident, when I’m grabbing coffee on the weekends, the go-to look is something a little bit more casual, fashionable, but with an effortlessness. Now, a decade into my tenure, there are five women in particular who I find myself drawn to for their personal style.
They’re the quintessential New York icon, Chloe Sevigny, on my list, but I’ve also scouted women who may be a little bit less on the radar, for now including fashion industry peers like Vogue’s Naomi Elizée. While each woman’s style is unique, what makes all of them remarkable is their commitment to having fun with getting dressed. Whether it be via bold colors, fun prints, or simply embracing quirky designers, I’m inspired by the way that each shapes clothing into a thoughtful, evolved personal style. Discover each of them below, and shop pieces inspired by their looks.
Ella Emhoff
The Gen-Z trendsetter who has helped to define the style of Dimes Square, Ella Emhoff (Kamala Harris’ stepdaughter) is ushering in a new era of NYC style. A model and knitting enthusiast, she’s often in the IYKYK downtown labels like Eckhaus Latta, Collina Strada, and Puppets & Puppets.
Gil Rodriguez
Pink Capri Leggings
A cool style for layering.
Puppets and Puppets
Black Mini Cookie Bag
Warning: may induce hunger.
Eckhaus Latta
Lapped Crewneck Baby Tee
A tee that goes beyond basic.
BP.
Crochet Daisy Headscarf
Crochet is a signature element of her wardrobe.
Marco Rambaldi
Pink Crocheted Bag
How about a textured bag, too.
Collina Strada
Wide Leg Cargo Pants
Baggy pants aren’t going anywhere.
Amy Lefevre
Influencer Amy Lefevre is my go-to for sophisticated, tailored looks that are still dripping with cool. She partners with luxury labels like Chanel and Ferragamo, but also more affordable options including Sezane and Steve Madden, so there’s really something for everyone in her feed.
Steve Madden
Legaci Slingback Pointed Toe Pump
Pumps with a touch of attitude.
Embroidery adds a luxe touch.
Favorite Daughter
The Favorite Pant Pleat Pants
Simkhai
Alice One-Shoulder Satin Top
A top for nights on the town.
Alexis Bittar
Large Molten Bangle Bracelet
Ferragamo
Archive Shoulder Bag
A luxury bag makes an entire look expensive.
Naomi Elizée
This Vogue editor manages to make luxury pieces feel relaxed and unfussy. She’s a daring dresser, not afraid of bold colors or prints. She’s also a champion for emerging Black designers, often wearing looks from Christopher John Rogers, Theophilio, Telfar and more.
Christopher John Rogers
Oversized Striped Brushed Wool Sweater
A playful sweater that’s designed to stand out.
Louisa Ballou
Yellow Graphic Polo
Jeans help dress down designer pieces.
Schutz
Maryana Pointed Toe Boot
Elizee isn’t one to shy away from a heel.
Moose Knuckles x Telfar
Black Medium Shopper Tote
Chloe Sevigny
I couldn’t create a New York icons list and not include Chloe Sevigny. The actor, model, and longtime NYC has remained not just relevant, but beloved through the decades. Her style can be restrained (she’s modeled for Proenza Schouler and Miu Miu), but generally she mixes designer with cool vintage pieces and relaxed basics.
This collar is the drama.
G.H.BASS
Whitney Leather Loafer
The ideal shoe for everyday.
Le Specs
Hypnosis 50mm Cat Eye Sunglasses
Cat-eye glasses are a Sevigny signature.
Simone Rocha
Red Bow Ribbon Stud Earrings
RE/DONE
Re/done X Pam 90s Baby Long Sleeve Girl Sparkle Tee
’90s inspired pieces are right up Sevigny’s alley.
AGOLDE
Parker Long Vintage Shorts
Comfortable, classic, and casual.
Telsha Anderson-Boone
As the founder of boutique T.A., Anderson-Boone is an expert in sourcing emerging labels and styling them alongside luxury pieces. I’m always drawn to her accessories (like her killer Spinelli Kilcollin x Horsenbuhs engagement ring), and her play with colors.
Tibi
Oversized Cutout Cotton-Jersey Sweatshirt
Not your usual sweatshirt.
Jenny Bird
Maeve Knotted Single Ear Cuff
A bold addition to the ear.
A print that’s basically a neutral.
Summer accessorizing solved.
Rosie Assoulin
Gathered Checked Organza and Taffeta Top