Skip to Content

What to wear in New York in Spring

What to wear in New York in Spring

Do you want to know what to wear in New York in Spring? Then you have come to the right place. No matter whether you are visiting NYC in March, April or May we have the best packing list and outfit inspiration for you.

Important Note: This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Weather in NYC in Spring (March, April or May )

Spring in New York City is classified as March, April and May but it really depends on the month of travel as to what you can expect from the weather. In May it can start to feel pretty Summery and you can start to get out your summer capsule wardrobe however March can still feel wintery.

April is one of the rainiest months to visit New York with there being a 33% chance of rain on any given day. But it is worth having a waterproof and a compact umbrella with you no matter the month of travel.

Note: this guide is intended as a New York City packing list for Spring. However if you are vistiing other areas of New York state be sure to check out the following packing lists too

What to Wear to New York in Spring Women 

Woman in leather jacket looking at New York skyline
What to wear in New York in Spring (March, APril and May)

When putting together you wardrobe for NYC in Spring we recommend trying to pack a capsule wardrobe to reduce space and potentially even travel with carry-on alone.

For more information on methods for packing light be sure to check out our explanations of the 54321 packing method and the sudoku packing method here.

Trousers

Depending on where you are traveling to in NYC and what activities you are doing once you get there will depend on what type of trousers you require. In May we recommend light weight trousers like chinos and linens. However for March and April then jeans are a great pick.

Also you can never go wrong with a pair of black pants in NYC.

Skirts and Dresses

For Spring I normally pack midi length dresses for New York but for March a sweater dress is still a good pick.

Blouse

A loose blouse works for the cooler evenings or days and can pair well with trousers for evenings out on Broadway.

Click here to shop blouses

T Shirt

T-Shirts are a great base for New York at anytime of year but particularly in Spring. T Shirts that are plain or are lightly patterned are easier to make work as part of a capsule wardrobe.

For Early March some long sleeve tees are a good idea too.

Jacket

Depending on the month you are traveling will depend on the thickness of jacket you require. In May a denim jacket, trench or blazer is appropriate. However for March a warmer jacket like a puffer jacket is a good pick.

Top layers

As the weather cools it is worth having a variety of top layers with you. A merino wool sweater is a good pick as it works for smarter restaurants and theatre shows but isn’t too bulky if you are trying to pack light.

However a hoodie is also a good pick for casual daytime sightseeing.

PJs

Underwear and Socks

Goes without saying. Sneaker socks are a good way of reducing sweat and odour in your shoe.

What to Wear in NYC in Spring for Men

For men visiting NYC in Spring, I actually recommend actually keeping things similar to the women’s packing list.

The items we recommend including on your mens New York Spring packing list are:

Trousers

Having a couple of pairs of linen trousers with you is a good idea for New York in May. But for Earlier in the Springtime you may want to add a mix of jeans and chinos too.

T Shirts and Shirts

During the day t shirts are great. For men short sleeve tees are probably going to be the most useful for you. 

You should also pack at least one button down shirt with you for NYC in Spring going out to dinner or want to get dressed to go to see a show

However if shirts aren’t your thing then be sure to pack a smart polo.

PJs

Lightweight ones are recommended.

Underwear and Socks

Goes without saying.

Best Shoes for NYC in Spring

Sneakers

Sneakers are my go to shoe for NYC in the Spring. They are great for days when you are doing lots of walking whether that be in Central Park or Battery Park.

Ankle Boots

These are appropriate for March and Early April. I personally would avoid anything suede due to the rain and steer clear away from thin heels as they aren’t good for lots of walking.

Sandals

Sandals are perfect for May in New York. Just be sure you are comfortable walking long distances in them.

What Else to Pack for NYC in Spring 

Woman taking selfie next to brooklyn bridge
What to wear in New York in Spring (March, APril and May)
  • Sun screen
  • Aloe Vera
  • Sunglasses –
  • Camera
  • Crossbody bag  – unfortunately any tourist site attracts pickpockets and New York is no different. Protect your belongings by having a crossbody bag with lots of zips. 
  • Compact Umbrella  – important for any month. Our favorite brand of travel umbrella is Repel.
  • Travel Adaptor – if you are visiting from Europe or further afield.
  • Power Pack / Battery recharger

How to dress in New York in Spring for Special Events

There are no special events in NYC in Spring that will affect your Packing List drastically.

FAQS About New York in March, April or May

Do I need swimwear for New York in Spring?


This is only required if you are staying at accommodation with a pool.

Can you wear shorts in NYC in Spring?

You are fine to wear shorts in most places in NYC in May however it is probably be too cool for them in Early Spring.

What to wear to a Broadway Show in Spring?

A Broadway show is a must for any New York bucket list no matter the time of year you visit. However if you are visiting in Late Spring we recommend picking an outfit that you feel cool in. Theatres on Braodway are old and get hot and stuffy in summer so w recommend wearing something like a sweater dress or loose trousers and blouse.

Can you wear jeans in New York?

Jeans are an essential on your New York packing list. On the streets of New York you will see a variety of styles from ripped, skinny, boyfriend cut to baggy. Therefore wear the style of jeans you feel most comfortable in. However personally I avoid them and pack cotton pants, linen and shorts instead as I find them more comfortable to tour the city in the heat.

Have you been to NYC in Spring? What did you wear? We would love to hear in the comments.