The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

What to Wear: New York City in May

I am headed to New York City for a 4 day, girls-only trip near the end of May. I was hoping you could help put together some practical, yet stylish, outfits for touring the city as well as something to go out for dinner in. I am on a low budget and in dire need of fashion advice! I love the effortlessly stylish looks you've put together in the past. If you could help, that'd be amazing! Thanks!!!! —J

Springtime in New York City is beautiful. May temps go into the 70s, a little cooler in the evenings, but it's always a good idea to dress in layers since weather is predictably unpredictable. Wear comfortable shoes so you can do lots of walking and pack light so you can do lots of shopping! Bring things you can wear more than once and accessories that do double duty (like the adorable metallic cross-body bag I found, you'll see it below!)

Here are three outfit ideas featuring items under $100 (most are much less) to help you enjoy your NYC vacation in style & comfort:


LOOK 1: PRINTED DRESS + LEGGINGS + FLATS
Urban chic. A cardigan or jean jacket is always handy for air conditioned spots, evenings or when it's windy. Add the statement necklace and you're ready to go out!




LOOK 2: TANK + CARGOS

Notice how I've used the same metallic cross-body bag and buckle flats to show how these wardrobe staples work seamlessly with various outfits and occasions. Swap the flats for heels to get a relaxed evening look.




LOOK 3: DRAPE SKIRT + BRIGHT BLOUSE
A black draped skirt is flattering and so versatile. Look for a fabric that won't wrinkle. A colorful top, cage heels and faux leather jacket finish the look.


Comments
Link for the printed dress isnt working. I love it! Where do I get it? :-)
#1 Chrissy on 2010-04-13 16:24 (Reply)
The dress is from forever 21. I plan on buying it!
#1.1 meredith on 2010-04-13 17:22 (Reply)
correct, it's from Forever 21. sorry the link isn't working, the item must have sold out while i was working on the post!
#1.1.1 The Budget Babe on 2010-04-13 18:46 (Reply)
I had the same dilemma, and I'm going to NYC in June. Thanks for the recs! :-)
#2 Patricia Enriquez on 2010-04-13 16:56 (Reply)
Those BCBGirls sandals are drool-worthy!
And look super comfy too cause they have wedge heels and aren't sky high. I like!
#3 Lucy on 2010-04-13 18:22 (Reply)
I love these outfits! They fit in perfectly with NYC style too.
#4 Athena on 2010-04-13 19:35 (Reply)
Great selections !! Black and white is the way to go when you travel...everything can mix and match!
#5 sohoaccessories (Homepage) on 2010-04-14 05:52 (Reply)
I LOVE when you do these outfit ideas! U totally inspired me!
#6 Danielle (Homepage) on 2010-04-14 07:47 (Reply)
Thank you for this post. I too am planning on being in NYC over Memorial Day weekend. (My first trip to the big apple.) Living near a city (Chicago) I already have some pieces similar to these, so it is good to know I will be set for my vacation. First one in ten years, so I am very much looking forward to it. :-) Thanks BB! P.S. - would it be possible to do a post just on fashionable/comfortable shoes for walking around the city in spring? I have a feeling it will be my sticking point when packing.
#7 Jen on 2010-04-14 08:28 (Reply)
Thanks for sharing these looks! Really they're ideal for any long day out and about, so awesome. :-)
#8 Trude (Homepage) on 2010-04-14 16:37 (Reply)
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