Do you want to know what to wear in New York in Summer? Then you have come to the right place. No matter whether you are visiting NYC in June, July or August we have the best packing list and outfit inspiration for you.
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Weather in NYC in Summer (June, July, August)
Summer in NYC is classified as June, July and August and the weather across the summer months is pretty consistent with average high temperatures of 29C / 84.2F. However in my experience of New York in the summer, it can feel warmer and closer amongst all the skyscrapers and people.
The rain in NYC in summer is also pretty consistent with around 8 rainy days per month.
Note: this guide is intended as a New York City packing list for summer. 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 Summer for Women
When putting together you wardrobe for NYC in Summer I 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. But if you are just staying in the city we recommend avoid jeans as it will feel too warm. Instead we recommend packing light weight trousers such as linen to deal with the heat.
However you can never go wrong with a pair of black pants in NYC.
Skirts and Dresses
As the city is warm in summer we recommend packing a good supply of summer dresses. I normally pack midi length dresses for New York as they won’t drag on the floor like Maxi dresses.
Blouse
A loose blouse works for the cooler evenings or days and can pair well with trousers for evenings out on Broadway.
T Shirt
T-Shirts are a great base for New York at anytime of year but particularly in Summer. T Shirts that are plain or are lightly patterned are easier to make work as part of a capsule wardrobe.
Jacket and top layers
Although Summer, I still recommend packing top layers.
A denim jacket that can pair with trousers or even a dress is a great choice for museums, restaurants, theatre and shops. I also like to have a cardigan that can be paired with dresses on cooler nights and a hoodie for casual daytime sightseeing.
Swimwear (optional)
Swimwear is an optional for your New York summer packing list depending on where you are going and the accommodation you are staying in.
You really only need to pack swimwear if you are staying in a hotel with a swimming pool or if you are heading to the coast after.
PJs
Lightweight are recommended for summer.
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 Summer for Men
For men visiting NYC in Summer, I actually recommend actually keeping things similar to the women’s packing list.
The items we recommend including on your mens New York Summer packing list are:
Trousers
Having a couple of pairs of linen trousers with you is a good idea for New York in summer.
If you are sticking to the cities then I would recommend having a mix of chinos and linen trousers with you as these work for both day and night.
Shorts
Although Chinos and linens are great shorts are a necessary addition for hot days in summer.
We recommend bringing more tailored and smarter shorts as opposed to cargo shorts however as these can make you look like a tourist.
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 Summer for going out to dinner.
However if shirts aren’t your thing then be sure to pack a smart polo.
Swimwear
Only needed if your accommodation has a pool or you are heading to the coast.
PJs
Lightweight ones are recommended.
Underwear and Socks
Goes without saying.
Best Shoes for NYC in Summer
Sneakers
Sneakers are my go to shoe for NYC in the summer. They are great for days when you are doing lots of walking whether that be in Central Park or Battery Park.
For summer and for capsule wardrobes I like to stick to a pair of white sneakers as they are the most versatile. My favorite brand at the moment are Addidas Cloud Foam.
Sandals
Sandals are perfect for summer in New York. Just be sure you are comfortable walking long distances in them.
And if you want to have something with height then we recommend a wedge instead of a stiletto heel. And be sure to leave the flip flops at home as these are not good for walking long distances in.
What Else to Pack for NYC in Summer
- 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.
- Travel Adaptor – if you are visiting from Europe or further afield.
- Power Pack / Battery recharger
How to dress in New York in Summer for Special Events
There are no special events in NYC in Summer that will affect your Packing List drastically.
FAQS About New York in June, July or August
Do I need swimwear for New York in Summer?
This is only required if you are staying at accommodation with a pool or heading to the coast after the city.
Can you wear shorts in NYC in Summer?
You are fine to wear shorts in most places in NYC in summer. For women I recommend packing a mix of shorts, trousers and skirts and men shorts are an essential along with trousers.
What to wear to a Broadway Show in Summer?
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 Summer 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 sun dress of loose trousers and blouse.
Can you wear jeans in New York?
Even in summer you will see lots of jeans on the streets in New York. And 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 Summer? What did you wear? We would love to hear in the comments.