New York Fashion Week 2023 saw the debut of young fashion designers and many wearable looks that would be in the right place on the streets of The Big Apple. Knitwear, high-end denim outfits, grunge looks, and utilitarian-inspired pieces made their way down the runway, much to the delight of NYFW regulars.
Meanwhile, fashion editors, buyers, off-duty models, and attendees braved the chilly weather and dressed in pieces that would suit the warm and balmy summer months. Fashionistas became noticed wearing strapless dresses, double denim looks, 70s-inspired wide-legged trousers, and colorful shorts to the shows.Â
While many outlandish and unique outfits were on display, the best picks of this year’s NYFW runway and street styles indicate that we’re about to see a plethora of classic and comfortable looks this summer. Think cargo and women’s shorts, plaid skirts, distressed jeans, twee dresses, and so much more! Here is a rundown of the NYC-inspired street styles everyone will wear in Summer 2023.
Top Street Styles of 2023
This year's top street styles are quirky, comfortable, and far from basic. Bra tops, for instance, are set to become prominent New York City streetwear staples this summer. Get a few in various colors and prints to stay on-trend. Pair your bra top with wide-leg white jeans and a lightweight jacket for a modest twist. For a playful look, layer a colorful bra over a fitted tank top or a shirt. Embrace the denim-on-denim trend by donning a denim bra top, a jean jacket, and jeans.
Mini skirts will also take the spotlight this summer. Mix sweet and tough elements by pairing schoolgirl plaid skirts with candy-colored tees and stompy combat boots. Try a cargo skirt with a button-down shirt and motorcycle boots for a grown-up take on the trend.
Jean skirts in various lengths and washes are intelligent additions to your summer wardrobe. Pair minis with boho tops, opt for a maxi jean skirt with a clingy top and pencil-thin heels for a sultry look, or wear a long jean skirt with thigh-high slit, over-the-knee boots, and an off-the-shoulder top for a sophisticated style.
Summer dresses will play a significant role in street style later this year. Embrace cuteness and quirkiness by opting for a minidress paired with ankle socks and heeled multi-strap Mary Janes. For a sophisticated New York City look, choose a long knit dress in a neutral color, paired with brown boots and a brown leather handbag. Drape a leather jacket over your shoulders to complete the ensemble, suitable for brunch with friends or drinks at a cozy resto-bar.
The Best Shorts for Summer
As temperatures rise, shorts will undoubtedly become go-to items in our summer wardrobe. This year, shorts are expected to dominate street style trends. Prepare to see everything from edgy leather to classic denim shorts. Cool and breezy fabrics like linen will also be a hot trend, featuring various styles of linen shorts.
Styling summer denim shorts can be a fun challenge, and style-savvy New Yorkers can provide inspiration. Opt for loose, knee-length denim shorts to make a statement, or choose short cut-offs for a sexy vibe. Experiment with different styles and find what works for you.
In line with chic New York City streetwear, pair relaxed-fit over-the-knee denim shorts with a lace bodysuit, a slouchy blazer, heels, and a leather bag. Choose white knee-length denim for a different take, adding a black corset, a black leather jacket, and black heeled boots.
Leather shorts can be an excellent choice for those wanting to try something more adventurous. Opt for classic colors like camel, chocolate, black, deep green, or maroon. Pair leather shorts with a tailored top, your best heels, and a statement bag. Explore different lengths for variety, but for a classy look, choose shorts that fall below midthigh or hit just above the knee.
For an elegant and all-linen outfit, start with white linen shorts. Pair them with a linen scoop neck blouse in a matching color, then top it off with a beige linen blazer. Complete the look with strappy flat sandals, a woven bag, and stylish shades.
Style Inspiration from the Biggest Celebrities
Celebrities have always been a significant source of inspiration for the best street styles, and 2023 is no exception. Take a page from BTS member Suga's book, who recently sported ripped jeans and a highly distressed sweater. Create your own version of this trend by choosing loose or relaxed-fit jeans with multiple rips and pairing them with a crop top. Complete the comfy vibe with basic sneakers and a small sling bag.
Jennifer Lopez takes us back to her "Jenny from the Block" days with her loose cargo pants and slouchy sweater while in New York City. Emulate her NYC street style by wearing relaxed-fit cargo with a cozy knitted sweater for the spring, and in summer, switch to a fitted tank top with your cargo pants. Accessorize with gold hoop earrings, aviators, and fashion-forward sneakers.
Need more style inspiration? Look no further than the ultimate New Yorker, Taylor Swift. She was spotted earlier this year wearing a black strappy mini dress paired with black loafers and sunglasses in New York City with her squad. She has also sported distressed cut-offs with oversized white button-downs and canvas sneakers. Recreate her look or add your own variations by opting for a long-sleeveless black dress, swapping the loafers for black sneakers, and pairing cutoffs with a beaded tank.
Channel your inner New Yorker with these outfit ideas and embrace these NYC street styles for a unique and fashionable summer look!