I'm an Ex-New Yorker—So I Know to Pack These Essentials for My NYC Winter Trip

It's my first trip back since moving to Los Angeles.

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Christie Tyler kneeling on the floor wearing a black coat next to an image of a bag
(Image credit: Christie Tyler)

After living in New York City for 10 years, I'm returning for my first visit since moving to Los Angeles a little over a month ago. It’s a crazy feeling to pack for the city I once built my entire life (and wardrobe) around. I’m popping back just for a couple of days to take meetings, see friends, and visit galleries—but I'm already thinking about what New York's fashion philosophy means to me and how I can convert my already warmed-up wardrobe to fit my travel needs. Here's what I'm planning to pack.

A Fantastic Coat

Christie Tyler taking a selfie wearing a black jacket, jeans, and leopard print shoes, with a newsboy cap

(Image credit: Christie Tyler)

Christie Tyler's black shirt on a couch

(Image credit: Christie Tyler)

First and foremost, as it’s nearly 20 degrees in New York at the moment, I will need a fantastic coat. That means: full-length; genuinely warm; and will go with everything I plan on wearing while I’m there.

Immediately, my mind goes to a black coat, because New Yorkers and black are a match made in heaven. A black coat offers warmth, sophistication, and flexibility in what you wear underneath; I feel like I can be comfortable yet chic. I chose this vintage Etsy number, but pony hair is everywhere right now—so I’ve included some options that will be just as beautiful.

A Fun Going-Out Look

Christie Tyler wearing a black coat over a black dress and black boots

(Image credit: Christie Tyler)

Christie Tyler sitting on the floor in a black dress and black boots

(Image credit: Christie Tyler)

Christie Tyler's black boot and leopard print purse and necklace on the floor

(Image credit: Christie Tyler)

Next I want to pack something a bit out there, perhaps for dinner with my girls. We love getting dressed up, and I love showing off my unique vintage finds or a new piece from an undercover brand. It keeps it fun and playful—and of course, throwing on a cheetah hat I've barely worn is the cherry on top.

Daytime Look

Christie Tyler wearing a black beret, a black jacket, blue jeans and leopard print shoes

(Image credit: Christie Tyler)

Christie Tyler kneeling on the floor wearing a black jacket and leopard print shoes

(Image credit: Christie Tyler)

Christie Tyler's leopard print shoes on the floor next to sunglasses and a hat

(Image credit: Christie Tyler)

I need something for a day in Soho—warm and chic, but also something I can bundle up in. This hat is another vintage find; the inspiration was Khaite’s Vito hat. Paired with my coat, a very warm turtleneck, and a great pair of Levi’s, I feel ready to take on all New York has to offer. Oversized glasses (Phoebe Philo) a plus.

A Bag That Fits Everything

a bag on a table next to a hairbrush, a pair of shoes, a comb, and sunglasses

(Image credit: Christie Tyler)

I used this Victoria Beckham bag when I traveled to Paris and it was the best. I fit multiple other bags inside of it for optimizing space, yet it’s flexible enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Plus, it’s chic if there are a couple of errands I want to run while in NYC and need a bigger bag. It was loaded with snacks and skincare last trip, and I plan to do that exact same thing this time around.

Christie Tyler
Christie Tyler
Contributing Editor

Christie is a content creator, model, and the co-founder of Vollective; she also runs a popular Substack. She's marketed for brands including CHANEL, Louis Vuitton, Hèrmes, YSL, and more.